Day 5 of OP One Week Challenge

I apologize for the lack of updates this week... It's been a bit crazy. I'm still trying to workout a routine that's do-able without isolating myself from the world. I am at the end of Day 5 OP and Day 4 of the Squat Challenge.
I did 80 squats today and tomorrow they get up'd to 100.
Between food prepping, the gym and work I feel like I don't have time to even talk on the phone... but on the positive side I can feel my mood and energy changing. Despite everything this week I wake up happy and once out of bed I feel energized.
I think high carbs and extra sugar were draining me of energy and feeling good.
Before starting the Squat Challenge I took a picture
( see below)...
By the end of the challenge, I hope to see a pumped and lefted booty....

Day 1 of DSD's OP One Week Challenge

I had no joiners... so it's a one diva challenge!

I've made it through day one. I worked out with my trainer today. I ate on program, I earned 9 points. My goal is a 10 point day average, I still have two hours to make up that point. I'll take Penelope around the complex real quick.

To hit my daily goal I need to finish off that one point and finish my last 4 glasses of water.

Tomorrow - I'll be cleaning out my refrigerator, planning my meals for the week, working out and making some posters.

I've never been into or good with group exercise classes but I'm tempted to go try out a cycling class. It's at 8am tomorrow morning. I was feeling gungho about it today but as it gets later in the night, I'm not too sure I want to do it tomorrow. I might just go later in the morning and hit the cardio room. :o/

Yyyyaaahhh Day 1 is thisclose to being done.

Tomorrow is a new day with a new beginning, I need to remember to keep my focus, control and motivation.

OP One Week Challenge

There are so many aspects to weight loss and you are like me lately, use to free style eating and no regular exercise schedule... creating (or getting back into) a weight loss regiment can be a challenge.
Lately it seems like week after week I restart on Saturday and fall off by Wednesday.

It's not lack of motivation or tools. I want to lose weight. I want to be a healthier me. I want to fit into my Wonder Woman suit properly.

And tools... I have them all: food, free gym, a personal trainer, Weight Watchers Online, knowledge.
I think I lack a routine, organization, a daily regiment that includes all aspects of weight loss: Intake Monitoring, Food Journaling, Meal Planning & Prep, Water Drinking, Vitamin Taking and Exercise.

That's not too long of a list and with proper planning all do-able daily.
I'm challenging myself and those of you struggling to a full week of all of the above...
Who's with me? We can start Saturday and check in on DietSodaDiva.com daily in the comments.

This challenge is all about staying OP, not a scale challenge? If you'd like to join leave a comment... No prize this time. You're reward will eventually come with a smaller number on the scale and a healthier you.

Do I have any joiners?

FINAL CALL FOR DSD WEIGHT LOSS CHALLENGE

I have one person so far who wants to join the Challenge... anyone else? Final Call... leave a comment if you're interested...

Valentine's Day Challenge Anyone?

It just occurred to me that Valentine's Day is just around the corner. I know I just got back to blogging... and probably have about 1 to 2 hits a day at the most right now... but is anyone up for a short Valentine's Day Weight Loss Challenge?

If you're game... leave me a comment. If anyone wants to join me I'll post up the guidelines and rules. I'm not sure about a prize... but there can possibly be one.

Remember... leave a comment below if you're interested in a challenge. Finally call will be Thursday - January 17th, 2013...

Today's the start of DietSodaDiva's 160 By 4th of July Personal Challenge! This challenge is closed to the public and only has one contestant... MOI!

I'll be weighing in for the last time before 4th of July on July 3rd...

I have 7 weeks to lost a little over 15 pounds... that's a little over 2 pounds a week... think I can do it? I do! I'll get my prize at the end of the challenge... the victory of stepping on the scale and seeing 160 again.

For the next 7 weeks I'm going to hustle my butt up and exercise... I'm going to pass on high point foods so I'll stay within my range. I can do this... and so can you!

Join me... start a challenge today. Decide on a number and challenge yourself to get there by 4th of July... be hot by mid-summer!

Go ahead - YOU CAN DO IT!

(Please excuse the crappy banner... had to do a rush job for now... )

PHASE II and Completed Challenge

I've made it. I successfully completely Phase 1 of the Fat Smash Diet! I got on the scale this morning it said 183... that's 8 pounds in 9 days. I don't think the scale at Weight Watcher's will be that generous but that's okay, 8 pounds is to much to lose in a big chunk anyway. I haven't been eating as much as I should... I've been trying to force myself... I barely finish 1/2 of my points if that. Either way, I've been eating what I'm suppose too and exercising every weekday.

Today is day one of Phase 2, so I upped my exercise to 35 minutes, also now instead of just power walking - I alternate power walking with jogging. Every light post, pole, or tree I alternate between the two. It was quite a workout. I did 1.79 miles in 35 minutes. My goal is 2 miles in 35 minutes. I got some hills in, so it was a good workout.

I'm looking forward to dinner today, I'm going to have a piece of lean steak, a side salad, and a 1/4 of Avocado. Hopefully, I'll be able to eat. I was feeling okay this morning. I had a banana smoothie. I skipped putting yogurt into it. I tried that yesterday and wasn't to happy with the taste. Now, I'm starting to feel all knotty inside... I'm going to try to have some beans for lunch... but I don't know.

Anywho... for those of you who are interested here's Phase 2:


PHASE 2: Foundation
Duration: 3 weeks
Meals: 4-5 daily along with nightly snack
Exercise: 10-15% more than phase 1 (30 minutes is now 35 minutes)

Still fruits and vegetables are limitless, food list is the same as phase 1 with slight changes and additional foods.

FOOD/DRINKS ALLOWED:
Vegetables and grains:
·Bok choy
·Broccoli
·Collard greens
·Dark green leafy lettuce
·Kale
·Mesclun
·Romaine lettuce
·Spinach
·Watercress
·Acorn squash
·Butternut squash
·Carrots
·Pumpkin
·Sweet potatoes
·Black beans
·Black-eyed peas
·Chickpeas
·Kidney beans
·Lentils
·Corn
·Green peas
·Lima beans
·Artichokes
·Asparagus
·Bean sprouts
·Beets
·Brussel sprouts
·Cabbage
·Cauliflower
·Celery
·Cucumbers
·Eggplant
·Green beans
·Green/red peppers
·Mushrooms
·Okra
·Onions
·Parsnips
·Tomatoes
·Brown rice 2 cups of cooked rice every other day (if desired)
·Avocado ½ per day maximum

NOTE: (Regarding following lists) These are total servings allowed per day; eat your servings during any meal you choose.

Meats 3-4 oz. (size of a deck of playing cards)
·Chicken: baked without skin (NO FRIED!)
·Turkey: baked without the skin
·Ground beef: EXTRA lean or ground sirloin, broiled
·Sirloin steak, broiled
·Lamb, broiled

Seafood
·Halibut, Tuna, Salmon, Snapper, Stripped Bass, etc.: 3ox. (NO FRIED!)
·Shrimp: 4 large
·Mussels: 3oz
·Oysters: 6-12
·Clams: 3

Eggs
·4 egg whites plus 1 whole egg; scrambled, boiled, or poached

Milk & Cheese
·2 ½ cups of low-fat, skim, or soy milk
·Cheese: 1oz (about 1.5 slices)
·6oz. low fat yogurt (2 times per day)

Cereals
Cold unsweetened 1 ½ cups per day
Hot ½ cup per day
·Corn flakes
·Cheerios
·Oatmeal
·Farina/Cream of wheat
·Total
·Bran flakes
·Life
·Rice Crispies
·Puffed wheat
·Shredded wheat
·Wheaties
·Special K
·Chex

Sweeteners
·4 tsp of granulated sugar (or sugar substitute)

Spices & Herbs
·As much as you like except Salt is limited to 2 tsp

Flavorings
·2 tbsp of fat-free dressing
·Extra virgin olive oil 1 tbsp
·1 tbsp of fat-free mayo
·2 pats of butter (two teaspoons)

Drinks
·1 10oz. cup of coffee
·3 cups of tea
·5 cups of club soda
·2 cans of diet soda
·1 cup of freshly squeezed fruit juice (you can divide this up into ½ cup servings)
·Ice tea sweetened only with 3 packets of sugar substitute
·Lemonade made with real lemons and 2 packets of sugar substitute or 2 tsp of granulated sugar
·Flavored seltzer or tonic water unlimited
·Unlimited tap or bottled water!

FOOD/DRINKS NOT ALLOWED:
·White rice
·White potatoes
·Bread/English muffins
·White pasta or white wheat pasta
·White flour
·Pastries/donuts/Danish
·Cake
·Cookies
·Brownies
·Candy
·Ice cream
·Potato chips/corn chips/Tortilla chips/popcorn
·Chocolate
·Bacon
·Sausage
·Alcohol
·Fried food
·Fast food
·Regular soda
·Sweetened juices from a bottle or can
·Milkshakes
·Frappuccinos
·Café latte or cappuccino

TIPS:
·Don’t eat the same fish or meat twice in the same day
·Try to separate the meats by at least a meal
·Try to leave some of the food on your plate when you get up from the table
·Try to do some physical activity after eating dinner (at least 20 minutes)
·Only snack on fruits and veggies after dinner
·Remember portion size: less is more!


I almost forgot to mention... I completed a Challenge. I always join challenges but never finish them. This time I finished! I joined in Jack Sh*T's Half Ass Half Pound Challenge... and I did it. I lost over a half pound!... LOL

Here's My Reward:

Challenges, MeMe, Yesterday Review, and Weigh-In News - All In One Combo Post

CHALLENGES
I've decided to give challenges a try again... even though I completely fell out of Biggest Loser Blog Edition... sooo here are the challenges I've decided to join:

First challenge and the shortest... Jack Sh*t's Kick-Ass Half-Ass Half-A-Pound Challenge!

The second and a little more serious challenge... Amy's 15 Week Challenge.


I think I already met my half-pound goal for the first challenge... ooohhh yeah! I'm going to kick ass! The 15 Week Challenge is going to be a challenge but it's all good. It runs right along with my 33 by 33 Challenge so I know I'm going to kick butt in that challenge too!

MeMe
I was tagged by Jack Sh*t to do this MeMe... so here you go:

RULES
1.Respond and rework; answer the questions on your blog, replace one question that you dislike with a question of your invention & add one more question of your own.

2. Tag eight other people

What is your current obsession? Diet, Exercise, and my Apartment... right now.

What are you wearing today? Yoga Pants, Red Shirt with Blue Sports Bra

What’s for dinner? I had a cut of beans. I might have a banana smoothie before bed.

What’s the last thing you bought? A box of Splenda

What are you listening to right now? Vi tell me about her day and about some songwriter jocking her for her voice.

If you could go anywhere in the world for the next hour, where would you go? To spend it with Ross.

Which language do you want to learn? Italian

What do you love most about where you currently live? Huh, I'm not sure.

What is your favorite colour? Red

What is your favorite piece of clothing in your own wardrobe? My black 4inch heels.

Describe your personal style? That's a hard one.

If you had $300 now, what would you spend it on? Go to IKEA and pick up a few things.

What are you going to do after this? Probably make my smoothie and finish this entry.

Your favorite smell? Chocolate.

Do you collect anything? I collect everything.

What makes you follow a blog? Humor attracts me a lot.

What's your favorite kind of onion? Huh, Yellow?

What’s one thing you dream of doing? Reaching my goal weight.

What is your biggest regret? Not losing it sooner.

What is your favorite thing to do on a rainy day? Lay around and snuggle.

Do you have a tattoo? Nope.

What are your favorite books? Apartment Therapy, The Godfather, and I can't think of the name of the other one.

Are you left handed, right handed, ambidextrous, or a little of both? I'm a righty but can also do most things with my left.

Are you a big fan of memes? Huh, sometimes. Depends.

TAG YOU'RE IT! WHEN YOU POST THIS MeMe UP LEAVE ME A COMMENT... JUST IN CASE I MISS IT!
1. Hollie from SkinnyHollie.com
2. Sheila from One Pretty Little Box
3. Patty from The Small Stuff
5. Sarah from Back in Step
4. Graciela from 55 Alive and Losing It
6. Karen from Babyfat Go Bye-Bye
7. Andrea from A Cake for a Wife
8. and last but never least... Di from The Incredible Shrinking Family!


WEDNESDAY'S REVIEW
I did pretty good yesterday... I hit all my intake goals... got all my water in, dairy, fruits and vegetables, my multi, etc. I earned 4 activity points... and left 7 so I left a total of 11 points behind. My only regret from yesterday was having my banana smoothie so late in the day and drinking water after 5pm. I think I would of done a lot better at weigh-in today. It was another KICK ASS DAY! Another star on the books for me!

THIS WEEKS WEIGH-IN
I weighed in this morning - only being back on program since Monday... and weighed in at 190.0! I missed last weeks meeting, I made excuses but really I knew I had gained... so I don't know what I lost since last week... but since two weeks ago I lost .4 which is great. If you're going by my weight on Monday than I lost 1 pound! I KICKED ASS! And you know what is even better. My next weigh-in will be a full week of me on program so I should have a really nice loss!

TODAY'S REVIEW
Another great day, and a star on tomorrow's entry. I've reach all my goals, all I have left is 4 cups of water, and my multivitamin. I made a few mistakes today. Due to me going to a super early meeting I didn't have time to workout, so I didn't get my workout in until the evening time. I worked all day, and did some running around... so by the time I was able to sneak a workout in I was tired and unmotivated too... but I put my workout clothes on and got my butt out there. I did 1.61 miles... it's the worse time all this week... BUT I also did extra-hills so I think the hills effected my time. Either way I put some hustle into my workout and even though it's my slowest time I still feel great about it.

Well this entry turned out to be pretty long, so I'll cut it off here... Hope you all have a great successful OP day!

See you tomorrow...

10%HICS CHALLENGE - Day 4 and Other Goodies

Yesterday was a pretty good day. I slightly went off my detox... I had chocolate milk with my salad. I didn't want water and they didn't have any caffeine-free diet drinks so I went ahead and had a chocolate milk.

I don't think I've had chocolate milk in years, it was sooo good like a milk shake. I did go off my detox but I'm okay with that, I stayed with in my points. Actually, at the end of the night I was under by 5 points! The detox phase isn't so bad. I miss meat - but I’m almost done with this phase. Friday's my last day. Phase 2 allows I think poultry and fish, that's mostly what I eat anyway. I feel good and on program. I got on the scale this morning and am down 3.6 pounds. My scale like I've mentioned before is sometimes nice to me but if I keep this up I can at least expect a 3 pound loss on Thursday. Being on program this week makes me feel like I've gotten my 2nd weight-loss wind.

I've made a new discovery at Subways that isn't too bad... a Veggie Delite Salad. It's only 1 point for the whole salad minus the cheese. I count it as 1 point because of the olives. The crotons are 2 point per bag, and the dressing are a point per packet. 4 points you have a super filling dinner. Yesterday when Vi and I went to Subways I asked for dressing, they had ran out of the Low-Fat Ranch in the packages but had some in a squirt bottle. The girl wanted to put in on the salad herself. I asked her to please put it on the side. She said she didn't have anything to put it in. I told her anything would be find... the wrap paper they use for their sandwiches, even a napkin - just not on the salad. She rolled her eyes and said she couldn't do that. I told her find she can squeeze some in my hand... her co-worker heard and suggested she put some in a soup bowl.

I was going to explain to her why I needed it on the side, but then I thought to myself... and remembered I am the customer. I am paying for this there for I shouldn't have to explain my reason for such a simple request of having the dressing on the side. Subways in my area now have tip cups... she got no tip!

I've been meaning to inform you since I posted about my Baja Fresh Nacho situation... The Chicken Nachos from Baja Fresh are 2020 calories, 108 grams of fat. The upside is they also have 35 grams of fiber... but it doesn't make much of a good think when you're dealing with 108 grams of fat! Just thought I'd let you know just in case you're in Baja Fresh one day and aren't sure what to have DON'T HAVE THE NACHOS!

Here's a some reasonable items from their menu that are under 10 points:
Tortilla Soup without Chicken (220 cal/12 g fat/3 g fiber) - 5
Tortilla Soup with Chicken (270 cal/12 g fat/4 g fiber) - 6
Baja Ensalada, Charbroiled Chicken (310 cal/7 g fat/7 g fiber) - 6
Baja Ensalada, Savory Pork Carnitas (370 cal/18 g fat/7 g fiber) - 8
Baja Ensalada, Charbroiled Shrimp (230 cal/6 g fat/6 g fiber) - 4
Mahi Mahi Ensalada, Charbroiled Fish (310 cal/12 g fat/10 g fiber) - 6
Side Salad (80 cal/3 g fat/3 g fiber) - 1
Baja Fish Taco, Breaded Fish (360 cal/17 g fat/3 g fiber) - 8
Grilled Mahi Mahi Taco, Charbroiled Fish (340 cal/13 g fat/6 g fiber) - 7
Original "Baja Style" Taco, Charbroiled Steak (310 cal/11 g fat/3 g fiber) - 7
Original "Baja Style" Taco, Charbroiled Chicken (280 cal/8 g fat/3 g fiber) - 6
Original "Baja Style" Taco, Savory Pork Carnitas (320 cal/14 g fat/3 g fiber) - 7
Original "Baja Style" Taco, Charbroiled Shrimp (280 cal/8 g fat/3 g fiber) - 6

March 4th is my 1/2 year anniversary being back on program and back to weight loss blogging. So in honor of that, I have a surprise for you Thursday. I'm not telling until then, so you'll have to come back and see what it is.

CURRENT WEIGHT: 186.6
GOAL WEIGHT: 177.2
AIMING DATE: April 30th, 2009

10% HERE I COME SOLO CHALLENGE - Day 3

I think I did okay yesterday... I however have fallen behind in my water so I need to catch up today. Also since I didn't exercise Friday I need to make up for that exercise today... my goal is to workout 5 days a week. I have 1 workout in so far.

Yesterday, I was under my daily points range by 4 which is pretty good - I need to make up for the 10 I went over on Friday. Now I have 6 points left to make up. I'm sure I'll be able to do that by the end of the week.

Today I'm going to work on doing the 1 missing workout and my water. If we ever get ready today we're planning to walk over to the secondhand... I need to get some walking in today to make my 5000 step quota.

I'm good so far points wise, I've had a cup of plain yogurt and 4 egg whites so far. I think in a bit I'll have a cup of beans and maybe for dinner I'll have a Subway's Salad.

I have lots to do today, or have lots I want to get gone today and it seems today is slipping by. I've better get going...

Happy Sunday and Happy Losing!

10% HERE I COME SOLO CHALLENGE - Day 2

Okay, so day 2 wasn't as successful as day 1. I knew it wasn't going to be because I decided to go off track in the evening time for a cool night on the town. I knew I would be off program and possibly deep into my flex points... however I did know plan on spending 49 points on a nacho plate... WTF?! I didn't know there were single person plates worth 49 points! What the hell was in those nachos?!

We're looking to transfer my daughter schools next year. We went to an open house for an art school. Afterwards we were in such a feel good mood I invited her to a movie. When we got to the movie house we realized we had 2 hours before the movie started, we decided to have dinner first.

We had quite a few selections including the usually safe Subways. We chose Baja Fresh. I thought their stuff was suppose to be Tex-Mex with a healthy twist... I think I always confuse the word FRESH for healthy... fresh fruit, fresh vegetables. Duh, Fresh doesn't always mean healthy.

From the time I woke up until about 6:30pm I did great, almost everything I had was a filling food. Then at the open house they had cupcakes, Vi and I had two each. Still not too bad, that's when we decided to go grab dinner and a movie.

I didn't think the Chicken nachos would be so bad... when I seen the size of the plate I knew we might have some issues. But not 49 points worth of issues! I had the nachos and at the movies I had some peanutbutter cups. Good think I didn't have a drink.

I journaled everything this morning and figured out the points. I was on complete shock when I realized I had 49 points for freaken nachos and worse when I totalled everything up.

Yesterday, for the day I had a grand total of 81 points! I think that's my biggest journaled points day ever.

So 82 points... I'm allowed 25 points daily, so that's 57 points over. I checked off all 35 flex points... so that brought my overage down to 22, I was under my points on Thursday by 10... so if I average that out I went over my points yesterday by 12. I earned 1 activity point for walking so that brings my total overage down to 11.

I'm back on program today and for the rest of the week. I should be able to make up those 11 points.

I'm doing good today. I'm on program. I've used up 5 point so far, I'm going to have some beans for lunch and head to the grocery store to pick up some more goods. I've taken 141 steps so far, but am confident I'll get in my 5000 steps. I'm also going to do 30 minutes worth of my new rebounding video today.

Yesterday was a crazy day... even thought I had all those points at no time did I feel out of control, nor today do I feel out of control. I am in control of the choices I made and the food that I choice to put in my body.

I am on program today, and I can/will do this. I feel strong, healthier for being on program, and good.

10% HERE I COME SOLO CHALLENGE - Day 1 Report

Yesterday was day one of my solo challenge and I KICKED ASS!

* I stuck with the fat smash diet phase 1 plan, and also journaled all my food - I earned a total of 4 activity points and saved a total of 10 points!

* I drank all my water.

* Took my multivitamin.

* I walked way over my limit, I walked 10,704 steps which equals to 4.39 miles and 2 activity points.

* Aside from the walking, I also did 30 minutes of exercise - trampoline jumping. It was sort of fun, but gets boring fast. I just ordered a rebounding video from ebay, so hopefully I'll be getting more use out of my trampoline.

Here are my current goals, I'm posting this as more of a reminder for myself.
CURRENT WEIGHT: 186.6
GOAL WEIGHT: 177.2

Here are basics for Phase 1: Detox from The Fat Smash Diet:

PHASE 1: Detox
Duration: 9 days
Meals: 4-5 daily along with nightly snack
Exercise: 30 minutes a week five days a week of cardiovascular exercise (any five days you choose)

·Do not skip meals
·Nightly snacks must be small/light
·Food can ONLY be eaten raw, grilled, or steamed.
·You’re allowed 3 tablespoons of low-fat dressing on your salads.
·If you’re grilling your veggies, use a minimal amount of virgin olive oil (one or two teaspoons)

SAMPLE SCHEDULE:
8am... Meal #1
11am... Meal #2 (heavy snack)
2pm... Meal #3
5pm... Meal #4 (light snack)
7pm... Meal #5
8pm... Light Snack

TIPS:
·Snack ideas: Frozen seedless grapes, frozen banana
·Eat foods high in fiber.
·Never eat within a hour and a half before going to bed.
·Try to go for a 20-25 minute walk after dinner

FOOD/DRINKS ALLOWED
·All fruits in any quantity
·All vegetables in any quantity, EXCEPT: NO WHITE POTATOS, NO AVOCADOS
·Good Protein: chickpeas, bean, tofu, lentils
·Brown rice 2 cups of cooked rice per day
·2 cups of low-fat or skim or soy milk per day
·As much water as you like, minimal 8 cups
·Oatmeal 1 cup per day
·All herbs and spices
·6 oz. Low-fat yogurt (2 times per day)
·4 egg whites per day
·2 cups of herbal tea per day

FOOD/DRINKS NOT ALLOWED:
·White rice
·Meat
·Fish
·Cheese
·Bread all types
·Raisins
·Nuts
·Dried and preserved fruits
·Candy/popcorn/chips
·Ice cream
·Alcohol
·Juice
·Soda regular or diet
·Coffee and all coffee drinks
·Sports drinks
·Milkshakes
·Whole eggs or yolks
·Fast food
·Fried food

Cardio Fat Burning:
Work out with your heart rate in the fat-burning zone: 50-70% of maximum heart rate. Subtract your age from 220 to find your maximum heart rate. Then multiply that number by .50 – this will give you the minimum heart rate you should maintain while performing your physical activity. Then take your maximum heart you should maintain while performing your physical activity. Then take your maximum heart rate and multiply it by .70 – this is the upper range for maximal fat burning.

Example: (40-year-old person)
220 - 40 = 180 (maximum heart rate)
180 x .50 = 90 (lower limit or minimal fat-burning range)
180 x .70 = 126 (upper limit of maximal fat – burning range)

Range during exercise for maximal fat burning: 90-126 beats per minute

NOTE: THOSE WHO ARE BETTER CONDITIONED SHOULD WORK WITHIN THE RANGE OF 60-75% OF MAXIMUM HEART RATE.

The only thing I'm changing is making my water limit 6 glasses per day instead of 8. It's challenging enough to get 6, and also Weight Watchers only requires 6.

I'm happy I got through day one. It was definitely a challenge. It was a bit of an emotional day, and also very busy. While taking my mother to pick up her prescriptions she offered Vi and I a tamale... MY FAVORITE. I could of had one and still be within points but I don't think Tamales are included in the fat smash diet... meat, corn, fat, etc. The guy selling the tamales also had atole... my other Mexican comfort foods... it's a drink made of corn meal, I had to decline. Of course my mother was insistent that I get at least one of his goodies. I had to be aggressive and decline strongly. Then she wanted to argue with me while flaunting the goods in my face why those foods aren't so bad... no support.

I walked around trying not to get annoyed while both my mother and my daughter ate tamales (my mother making mmmmmm moaning sounds with every bite) and atole. It was very challenging not breaking down and taking a bite when offered.

It was very tempting but I'm not losing any weight. I need to give this challenge a chance by sticking to it - or else I won't ever lose this weight. I'm tired of being overweight, I'm tired of having to cover my fat during the summers. I'm not going to be young forever so I need to enjoy this time and my body now that it's still all in tact... lol. I laugh, but I'm serious.

So far today I'm doing okay. Oatmeal for breakfast, a bowl of beans for lunch, no snacks so far. I haven't had any water yet, I've better get started.

I'll exercise tonight... my rebounding video just arrived in the mail today. I'm excited to get home and try it.

I don't know what I'm having for dinner yet, probably more beans. I have some red potatoes I think are okay it just says no white potatoes... are the red skinned ones considered white potatoes? I wouldn't mind some yams with a little milk and Splenda sprinkled on top. I need to go grocery shopping tomorrow. I think I've better just stay away from the red potatoes too... maybe. I'm not sure.

NOTE: I JUST YAHOOED IT... I FOUND THIS LINK - http://answers.yahoo.com/question/index?qid=20090201215948AA73n8c IT SAYS BLUE AND RED POTATOS ARE THE SAME AS WHITE POTATOES.

Maybe I'll make some brown rice, I have brown rice at home.

Walking wise, I'm doing okay... I'm a ways off reaching my 5000 steps right now. So far I've 2520... so I'm half way there. This evening Vi and I are going to an open house for a school she's auditioning for - for next year, so I'm hoping they'll give us a tour of the whole school so I'll get some walking in, in not I'll have to finish it up tonight when I get home.

I wish you all a wonderful losing weekend. I know I've been promising a video for the longest, things have been crazy about Divaville... but maybe, just maybe this weekend I'll be able to get something together for you'll...

Happy Friday!

10% HERE I COME SOLO CHALLENGE!!!

I'm tired... I've been trying for many weeks now to reach my 10% loss, and for the longest I've been stuck between 181-185. Today I weighed in at 186.6. I'm starting my solo challenge today.

Originally, I was going to make Biggest Loser vlogs but I realized I've only watched part of one episode so I'm actually not quite sure how the show works, so I've decided to rename my challenge.... it's call the 10% HERE I COME SOLO CHALLENGE! I'll be doing this challenge until I actually reach my 10 percent. Solo is thrown in there because I'm the only challenger. I'm tired of not being a loser. I need to get my act together...

Okay so here are the rules, and you my readers are my judges, cheerleaders, and motivational talkers...

* Stick to the Fat Smash Diet eating plan while journaling my food and counting Weight Watcher points.

* Drink 6 8oz servings of Water a daily

* Take my multivitamin

* Journal all my food

* Walk 5000 steps a day

* Exercise 30 minutes a day/5 days a week

CURRENT WEIGHT: 186.6
GOAL WEIGHT: 177.2
AIMING DATE: April 30th, 2009

2 Down!

Today was a good day. Emotionally, I feel a little bit strong, but I did notice I ate a TONS of carbs. It wasn't a good day eating wise,, but emotionally a little better then I have the past few days.

I went to my meeting, and guess what?! I was down exactly 2 pounds. I should be jumping and screaming right now with excitement... but since I'm still at a weight that I was a few weeks ago and I'm still trying to just work off the gain I had I can be happy about this, but not super excited. I'll be super excited once I pass 181. I am officially 183.8.

I didn't do anything super today, not even journal my food... :-o I know what I had and I have some of it written down. I discovered a new food today, that was quite yummy... Boreka. The one I tried had mushrooms and onion. Soooo good. I have no idea how many points it is.

BTW: DIET SODA DIVA'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE CHALLENGERS THOSE WHO COMPLETED THE CHALLENGE AND WHO HAVE NOT SPENT ME YOUR ADDRESS PLEASE DO I WILL BE SENDING OUT THE PRIZES VERY SOON... YOU HAVE UNTIL SUNDAY FEBRUARY 8TH, 2009 TO EMAIL ME YOUR ADDRESS. I will not share your address or sell your address to any one person or company.

TODAY'S THE DAY! YOU LADIES READY TO KEEP SOME WEIGHT WATCHER BUTT?!

Remember today's goal is to aim for 5 filling foods (core foods) and 30 minutes of exercise... you can do this!

List of Gettin' Hott By Valentines' Challengers

• Caroline M.
• Diane B.
• Jen
• Krista
• Lisa B.
• Melody O.
• Missy O.
• Pamiela L.
• Richelle
• Rosie B.
• beth chappell
• kelly S

DietSodaDiva's "Gettin' Hott By Valentines" Challenge IS HERE!

It's time for a new challenge... this time we're getting hott by Valentines! Are you ready to join us? Unlike other challenges where you set a weight goal... this one is focusing on staying on program. It's specifically for Weight Watcher's followers this time. Our goal is to eat more filling foods and and work out an average of 30 minutes a day from now until Valentines and of course staying with in our points range. Start date is January 10th, 2008 and it ends Feburary 14th at 12:01am.

NOTE: YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE A MEMBER OF WEIGHT WATCHERS OR WEIGHT WATCHERS ONLINE TO PARTICIPATE IN THIS CHALLENGE.

To become a challenger you must email me your information to dietsodadivaATyahooDOTcom

Name (first and last initial):
Blog Address (if any):
Start weight:
Weigh-in day:

After sending me your information you MUST join the yahoo challenge group: (http://health.groups.yahoo.com/group/dsdchallenge/). Last time I didn't require it and it was a bit confusing to keep everything and everyone organized.

Here' the Challenge Information...

START/END DATES: January 10th, 2008 12:00am - Feburary 14th, 2008 at 12:01am

LAST DAY TO SIGN UP: January 9th, 2008 11:59pm

REPORTING YOUR WEIGHT AND PROGRESS: Once everyone is in I will be creating a spreadsheet you'll be able to post your progress...

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Beginner - Intermediate Weight Watchers Program

CHALLENGE GOAL: Between January 10th, 2008 and Feburary 14th you should have eaten 175 Filling Foods, and exercised 17.5 hours. That's an average of 5 Filling Foods daily, and 30 minutes of daily exercise. You choose what ever combination of Filling Foods work for you and the amount that you have a day... just by the end of the challenge you should have eaten 175 Filling Foods and exercised 17.5 hours doesn't matter whether it's slow exercise or high... just 30 minutes of it.

WINNERS: Of course there will be more than one winner... this time in order to get a prize you much reach your goals of 175 filling foods, and 17.5 hours of exercise.

COMMUNITY: You're required to update your totals at least once a week and post in the group once a week to check in with everyone... but there's no maximum limit on the amount of posting... some of us are more chatty and have more time than others.

PRIZES: TBA Depending on how many challengers and winners we have.

And, I think that's it for now... if you have any questions or concerns please feel free to comment here or email me directly.

SO COME ON AND JOIN... LET'S START GETTIN' HOTT BY VALENTINES?


THE FINE PRINT
DISCLAIMER: Myself, DietSodaDiva, DietSodaDiva.com, or affiliates are not responsible for any health risks you may incur while participating in this challenge. This challenge is a "use at your own risk" challenge and you should consult with a doctor before beginning any diet or exercise program. ELIGIBILITY: To be eligible for participation in this challenge you must be 18 years or older. You must not be pregnant or have a health condition that could be worsened by your participation in this challenge or cause you harm while participating. If you have any doubts about your health status, please visit a physician before beginning this challenge. This includes recent surgery (especially weight loss surgery) or any injury/illness that could cause rapid weight loss.

DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge FINAL Update

Yeah! We finished our first challenge. I learned some things during this first challenge... I definitely have to keep a better account of the challengers because they tend to disappear. We have a few members who I don't think ever got started or had to leave for one reason or another... but we do have some tough cookies who stuck it out and completed it! Whether you made it to goal or not I am proud of you for hanging in there. You all deserve a prize... so for all the challengers who send me their mailing address you will receive one.

Okay so here we go... I don't have all the results so far, but please check this post again through out the week for updates, I'll be editing it as I recieve the entries. That last day to turn in last results is January 9th, 2009 at 11:59pm.

I have taken out some names simply because I never recieved their info or they never partipated... if I've removed your name and you have been participating just send me an email and I'll add your results in.

Here we go:

Name: Hollie L.
Blog: http://skinnyhollie.com
Location: Tennessee
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds
Total Gone: TBA

Name: Jen
Blog: http://pabstfamilyjs.blogspot.com/
Total Gone: .5 pound

Name: Kelly S.
Location: Wisconsin
Total Gone: 12 pounds

Name: Krista
50 Day Goal: 15 Pounds
Total Gone: TBA

Name: Lisa
Blog: http://senseieyes.blogspot.com/
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds
Total Gone: TBA

Name:Rosie
Blog:http://dietsodadiva.com
Location: California
50 Day Goal: Lose 12 Pounds
Total Gone: TBA

Name: Shelly
Total Gone: 8.4

If you see your name up here... please email me with your current stats... how much did you lose during this challenge. If you have been participating, and would like to be up there but don't see your name please email me with your information.

Congratulations to all the challenger who have participated and completed the challenge.

Now... let's get ready for the next challenge: Gettin' Hott By Valentines!

More information about the next challenge will be posted VERY soon. So stay tuned!

I look about the same but if you take a close look my double chin is down a bit... my stomach looks the same but the second picture includes TOM Bloating...

2009 Year Of The Challenge

It seems like I've joined TONS of challenge for 2009... so far I'm involved in four... one ending tomorrow, and my next one starts very soon.

I'm currently finished up DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge... it ends tomorrow. So remember challengers please get your final weights into me hopefully tomorrow... I'd like to do a final entry with all our updates.

Around Christmas I got an invitation to join a year long challenge... 2009 Weight Loss Challenge. There's a lot of stuff going on in the group... recipe swaps, clothing swaps... a bit complicated, with lots of leaders/moderators... I'm a bit lost keeping up with it... but so far it seems cool.

On YouTube I found a website called Choosing2Lose.com... I joined a challenge on those boards too.

Finally, one of my favorites I just joined... Biggest Loser Blog Edition 2nd Season.

With all these challenges I've better get in gear and win one of them.

If you're looking for a challenge to join... all of these I believe are too late to join... but DietSodaDiva.com will be hosting a new Valentine's Challenge for you Weight Watchers out there. Unlike the challenges I'm currently a part of, the Valentine's day challenge won't have a weight goal... we'll be focusing on exercise and filling foods.

In the coming days I'll be posting more information about the Valentines' challenge. Make sure to come back tomorrow for an update on DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challenge Challengers' FINAL update.

Also if you're a challenger, remember to email me your final weights and a picture if you like... also directly email me your mailing address if you haven't already. I'll be sending out gifts to all who have participated.

It's late, I've better get to bed. See ya'll tomorrow.

DietSodaDiva's Holiday Challengers

On your mark, get set, GGGGOOOOOOO!!!!!!!! And we're off! DietSodaDiva's Official Holiday Challenge has started. We have 50 days to reach our goals. And get through the holidays on program. Check in with us weekly to see our progress!

Name: Amy
Blog: http://onemoretimediva.blogspot.com
50 Day Goal: TBA

Name: Brittney
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/SmileWithUrHeart
50 Day Goal: Lose 16.5 pounds

Name: Hollie L.
Blog: http://skinnyhollie.com
Location: Tennessee
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds

Name: Jen
Blog: http://pabstfamilyjs.blogspot.com/
50 Day Goal: Lose 20 Pounds

Name: Kelly S.
Location: Wisconsin
50 Day Goal: Lose 20 Pounds

Name: Krista
50 Day Goal: 15 Pounds

Name: Lisa
Blog: http://senseieyes.blogspot.com/
50 Day Goal: Lose 10 Pounds

Name:Rosie
Blog:http://dietsodadiva.com
Location: California
50 Day Goal: Lose 12 Pounds

Name: Sars
Blog: http://runsarsrun.blogspot.com
50 Day Goal: Lose 13 Pounds

Name: Shelly
50 Day Goal: Lose 16.2 Pounds

If for some reason your information hasn't been included and you would like to participate please email me asap... also if anything is incorrect or information you do not want shared please also email me asap I will make sure to change it or take it down.

It's The Last Dance, It's Your Last Chance...

Okay it's not the last dance... or your chance to lose weight... but it is your last chance to join in all the festive fun going on around here... your last chance to join DIETSODADIVA'S HOLIDAY CHALLENGE!

It officially starts tomorrow! So you have until midnight to contact me and let me know you're in.

If you haven't already - there is still time to join! Just email me your information and I'll add you to the list. Information I would like is the following:

Name - Of course we need to know what to address you as.
Nickname if any - if you would prefer to be referred to as that
Blog Address if any - so we can add a link to the challengers post, anyone who visits this blog and follow your progress on your blog.
Current Weight - to know your start weight.
Address - I plan on mailing out certificates and possibly prizes one the challenge is over, regardless if you make it to your challenge goal.
Before Picture - nice to see a before and after picture for comparison.
50 Day Goal - to know what your aiming for.
Biggest Challenge Staying On Program - so we can get an idea of how we can help you stay on track.
Suggestions, Ideas for This Challenge, For Other Challenges... if any. Feedback is always welcome.

Minimal information I really need for you to participate:

Name
Current Weight
50 Day Goal

All or any information that you do not want posted on DietSodaDiva.com please let me know - I will respect your wishes and not post it. You don't even need your name posted to participate in this challenge.

I think that's it... tomorrow morning I'll be making the Official Challenger Entry posting pictures weigh goals, etc...

Get ready people to see a whole lot less of us in the new year!

Happy Losing...