Hello!! I am back from the "missing" list.
Three weeks of the Biggest Loser contest are in the bag. My goal remains 5 pounds per week. At this point I am down 13.
The past two weeks have not gone according to my plans. Ever have a week like that? I'm sure you have. Things take longer than you expect, others come out of nowhere. And with them, lessons.
From a nutritional/diet perspective, the importance of water is abundantly clear. My food choices have not been significantly different in any of the 3 weeks. The difference between 8 pounds lost the first week, 2 pounds the second week, 3 pounds in week 3 ? Daily exercise and water. Simple, huh?
In the first week, I was diligent: weight / 2 = ounces of water per day, daily exercising with alternating workouts to keep my body from falling in to a routine.
Then life happened, as it always does. My zeal in establishing new habits was somewhat tempered. But that's fine...and here's why. It reminded me quickly and abruptly that unless I am Oprah or an actor preparing for a movie role, making good food choices, drinking enough water, making time to exercise, doing anything which leads to a healthy mind/body/spirit must be strategically incorporated into life. No one is going to put food in front of me or monitor my exercise. No one will come do household chores or run errands.
I have made that mistake in the past...focusing unrealistically on weight loss/exercise. And it might work for a period of time, but is also too much like a "diet" and not enough like a lifestyle change. Focus on the exercise, lose the weight, then get consumed again by everyday life...and POOF, it's all back on because while my pants size changed, my life didn't really follow suit. So what will make the difference this time?
My friend JoniBeth asked a question recently that helped me tremendously. She asked if I was focused on a certain number of pounds lost or on a goal weight. Are you thinking, as I did, that this is the same question? JoniBeth said, "it's not the same thing" and I nodded, but disagreed.
A few days later, while exercising, I suddenly understood that it is NOT the same question. My Wii trainer (ooo, she is nasty sometimes ) suggested I visualize the body I want - and the difference dawned on me. Each week I want to lose 5 pounds. That is a great metric to help me on a daily basis. But in certain moments, I can see the figure I want...can see that person swimming, golfing, buying clothes and not being disgusted by it!
Do you see the difference? Have you seen the steps at the Temple of Kukulkan in Chichen-Itza? For me, every 5 pounds represents a step, with the castle at the top being the equivalent to my ideal body image. Some days I need to focus only on the next step, sometimes I need to look to the top for motivation.
Same end, very different perspective in reaching it. Thanks JB! Very helpful.
So in the midst of life, in spite of the distraction and unexpected events, we press on. We understand that permanent improvements cannot happen outside the boundaries of a normal day.
This is not bad news. When we can incorporate changes we choose, it also makes us know we can surely adjust to the changes we don't choose. And Heaven knows we each encounter those.
See you tomorrow...Beth
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Friday, January 8, 2010
Why does Jesus look like a taco?
Quick. What were you doing two weeks ago today? Hmm...let's see...
Opening presents? Preparing Christmas dinner ? Putting toys together?
Hard to believe two weeks have passed already. New year, new decade...and what is different? We put so much effort in to readying our homes for Christmas, to buying gifts in honor of Jesus' birth. What does that mean now?
My friend Jane displays a very simple Nativity set in her home. No elaborate faces or garments, but almost silhouette-like figurines which give us the opportunity to think about the real people represented - the simple carpenter and his young bride, the dirty shepherds, the baby who only wanted warmth and sustenance.
Several weeks ago, after studying the Nativity set, Jane's six year old granddaughter asked, "Grandma, why does Jesus look like a taco?" Jane admitted that, due to the stark nature of the set, the baby and his swaddling clothes did resemble a taco. We laughed about it.
It occurs to me, two weeks after Christians celebrate the birth of the Savior, a similar question can be asked by people who aren't laughing. It can be asked on any day by many people who don't know our Christ and wonder why they should, based on what they see in us.
Why does Jesus look like someone who is nasty to the grocery store clerk then leaves his cart in the middle of the parking lot?
Why does Jesus look like someone who doesn't tip well?
Why does Jesus look like someone who sits in the break room judging, criticizing, gossiping...or sits at the church dinner doing the same?
Why does Jesus look like someone who has so little peace that he goes off on his kids, his spouse, other drivers, anyone who crosses his path?
Why does Jesus look like someone who is racist, sexist, or any other -ist that hurts so many people?
Why does Jesus look like someone who is close-minded about what "church" should be, who we should welcome, how they should dress?
Just because "he" is the pronoun used doesn't mean women are not perpetrators as well. And these aren't issues one might see as huge and life-threatening.
But they are behaviors people observe. To paraphrase the Apostle Paul, I can sponsor 10 children through World Vision and tithe half my money to the church, but if I am a nasty neighbor, no one is seeing the Jesus I celebrate. I can wear my Jesus shirt, and have the bumper sticker on my car and the cross around my neck, I can sing L-O-U-D-L-Y about how I loooooove Jesus, but when I treat my friends and family badly, none of it means anything.
Think about it. What have you done in the past two weeks to continue the celebration of Christmas? What have you done that makes folks think you have no idea what Christmas is about?
Why does Jesus look like a taco? Maybe we should ask ourselves that more often.
Opening presents? Preparing Christmas dinner ? Putting toys together?
Hard to believe two weeks have passed already. New year, new decade...and what is different? We put so much effort in to readying our homes for Christmas, to buying gifts in honor of Jesus' birth. What does that mean now?
My friend Jane displays a very simple Nativity set in her home. No elaborate faces or garments, but almost silhouette-like figurines which give us the opportunity to think about the real people represented - the simple carpenter and his young bride, the dirty shepherds, the baby who only wanted warmth and sustenance.
Several weeks ago, after studying the Nativity set, Jane's six year old granddaughter asked, "Grandma, why does Jesus look like a taco?" Jane admitted that, due to the stark nature of the set, the baby and his swaddling clothes did resemble a taco. We laughed about it.
It occurs to me, two weeks after Christians celebrate the birth of the Savior, a similar question can be asked by people who aren't laughing. It can be asked on any day by many people who don't know our Christ and wonder why they should, based on what they see in us.
Why does Jesus look like someone who is nasty to the grocery store clerk then leaves his cart in the middle of the parking lot?
Why does Jesus look like someone who doesn't tip well?
Why does Jesus look like someone who sits in the break room judging, criticizing, gossiping...or sits at the church dinner doing the same?
Why does Jesus look like someone who has so little peace that he goes off on his kids, his spouse, other drivers, anyone who crosses his path?
Why does Jesus look like someone who is racist, sexist, or any other -ist that hurts so many people?
Why does Jesus look like someone who is close-minded about what "church" should be, who we should welcome, how they should dress?
Just because "he" is the pronoun used doesn't mean women are not perpetrators as well. And these aren't issues one might see as huge and life-threatening.
But they are behaviors people observe. To paraphrase the Apostle Paul, I can sponsor 10 children through World Vision and tithe half my money to the church, but if I am a nasty neighbor, no one is seeing the Jesus I celebrate. I can wear my Jesus shirt, and have the bumper sticker on my car and the cross around my neck, I can sing L-O-U-D-L-Y about how I loooooove Jesus, but when I treat my friends and family badly, none of it means anything.
Think about it. What have you done in the past two weeks to continue the celebration of Christmas? What have you done that makes folks think you have no idea what Christmas is about?
Why does Jesus look like a taco? Maybe we should ask ourselves that more often.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
Snow, peace, extravagance, sensory perception..and stuff
I am so blessed with loving people who encourage me. And with positive people who inspire me.
Already today I have received these three nuggets of wisdom:
1. God loves without caution or reservation. He loves EXTRAVAGANTLY. How amazing is that visual image!?! Extravagant like a $100,000 car or a 10 carat diamond ring or the house of your dreams equipped with every gadget and convenience available. THAT is how the God of the universe loves me and you.
Now here's the rub... He wants us to do the same.
2. Inner peace =
A tendency to think and act deliberately, rather than from fears based on past experiences.
An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
A loss of interest in judging others.
A loss of interest in judging self.
An increasing tendency to allow things to unfold, rather than resisting and manipulating.
The list Brandie sent was longer, but you get the idea. How can we ever expect to have peace in our homes, our country, our world, when we have no peace in our own hearts?
And let me tell you this...having peace in your heart is SO WONDERFUL!!! Beyond explanation.
3. The Washington Post conducted a study of perception and priorities. The paper arranged for a world-class violinist, Joshua Bell, to play in a Metro subway station for one hour. Approximately 2000 people passed him. Six people stopped to listen, but very briefly. Children wanted to stop but their parents generally pushed/pulled them on. The previous night Joshua Bell had sold out a Boston concert hall at the average price of $100 per ticket. In his hour of subway playing he received $32.
We are so quick to judge, and so hurried that we miss amazing happenings all around us, every hour. Instead of walking barefooted in the grass, we complain about mowing it. Instead of listening to the nature sounds when the world is blanketed in snow, we complain about shoveling it. I shoveled three times yesterday...maybe I lost a pound, maybe the reward was watching my dog run with glee.
What if I become consumed with showing extravagant love to people... what if I covet and become diligent about maintaining and reflecting inner peace, what if I open every one of my senses to the wonders of each day...WHAT IF? clearly life would improve...and I am betting I would never again have to think about what the scale says!
What do you think?
Already today I have received these three nuggets of wisdom:
1. God loves without caution or reservation. He loves EXTRAVAGANTLY. How amazing is that visual image!?! Extravagant like a $100,000 car or a 10 carat diamond ring or the house of your dreams equipped with every gadget and convenience available. THAT is how the God of the universe loves me and you.
Now here's the rub... He wants us to do the same.
2. Inner peace =
A tendency to think and act deliberately, rather than from fears based on past experiences.
An unmistakable ability to enjoy each moment.
A loss of interest in judging others.
A loss of interest in judging self.
An increasing tendency to allow things to unfold, rather than resisting and manipulating.
The list Brandie sent was longer, but you get the idea. How can we ever expect to have peace in our homes, our country, our world, when we have no peace in our own hearts?
And let me tell you this...having peace in your heart is SO WONDERFUL!!! Beyond explanation.
3. The Washington Post conducted a study of perception and priorities. The paper arranged for a world-class violinist, Joshua Bell, to play in a Metro subway station for one hour. Approximately 2000 people passed him. Six people stopped to listen, but very briefly. Children wanted to stop but their parents generally pushed/pulled them on. The previous night Joshua Bell had sold out a Boston concert hall at the average price of $100 per ticket. In his hour of subway playing he received $32.
We are so quick to judge, and so hurried that we miss amazing happenings all around us, every hour. Instead of walking barefooted in the grass, we complain about mowing it. Instead of listening to the nature sounds when the world is blanketed in snow, we complain about shoveling it. I shoveled three times yesterday...maybe I lost a pound, maybe the reward was watching my dog run with glee.
What if I become consumed with showing extravagant love to people... what if I covet and become diligent about maintaining and reflecting inner peace, what if I open every one of my senses to the wonders of each day...WHAT IF? clearly life would improve...and I am betting I would never again have to think about what the scale says!
What do you think?
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
Not thin yet- still a great day!
Don't feel like I have much to share this evening.
Today has been a terrific day. I exercised for the 4th day in a row (varying my workouts). This is also one of the days I volunteer at a local elementary school. Then off to a meeting at church.
I have been mindful of what I eat but not so crazy that i will burn out by next week. One thing I need to improve on is getting better rest.
So as I head off to bed, I will pass this along...from Dan Robey:
The most important decision you can make in your life is
to take personal responsibility for it.
If you are overweight and unhealthy get fit and in shape.
Read books about healthy diets, healthy lifestyles, don't
accept anything but the best for yourself.
Be proactive!
It is you who has to live in "YOUR" skin!
You have to live with the consequences of
not taking positive steps to prevent sickness
and disease in your life, and it is you
that can take the steps to bring wellness back to your life.
It is "YOU" who may have chosen to live a life of mediocrity.
"YOU" have the power to change every aspect of your life.
"YOU" can choose to study the laws of success and
change your life to one of amazing success.
The tools are all yours for the taking.
Here's to intentionally choosing excellence!
See you tomorrow,
Beth
Today has been a terrific day. I exercised for the 4th day in a row (varying my workouts). This is also one of the days I volunteer at a local elementary school. Then off to a meeting at church.
I have been mindful of what I eat but not so crazy that i will burn out by next week. One thing I need to improve on is getting better rest.
So as I head off to bed, I will pass this along...from Dan Robey:
The most important decision you can make in your life is
to take personal responsibility for it.
If you are overweight and unhealthy get fit and in shape.
Read books about healthy diets, healthy lifestyles, don't
accept anything but the best for yourself.
Be proactive!
It is you who has to live in "YOUR" skin!
You have to live with the consequences of
not taking positive steps to prevent sickness
and disease in your life, and it is you
that can take the steps to bring wellness back to your life.
It is "YOU" who may have chosen to live a life of mediocrity.
"YOU" have the power to change every aspect of your life.
"YOU" can choose to study the laws of success and
change your life to one of amazing success.
The tools are all yours for the taking.
Here's to intentionally choosing excellence!
See you tomorrow,
Beth
Tuesday, January 5, 2010
Biggest loser, intentionality and other light subjects
"Instead of giving myself reasons why I can't, I give myself reasons why I can." --Unknown
WORD.
This quote (thanks JoJo)speaks directly to my choice to stop focusing on the food ... think about the things I can do, instead of the foods I can't eat. Besides being a foolish choice from an emotional standpoint, giving thought-energy to my longing for food is selfish. Waa Waa Waa I can't have OreosChipsPoptarts and Pepsi to wash it down. Really? REALLY? How about what I CAN do - which is choose high-octane fuel foods every day. Many people in the world don't have the option. So the focus on food is ridiculous. And over.
Let's focus on cleaning...mind, body, and spirit. Great way to start a new decade, isn't it? And it's really not much different than cleaning the garage, which I did in early November. Did I do it because I was bored or didn't have 12 other things to do or wanted dirt in my sinuses? Nope- just wanted the car to have a snow-free home.
You know the routine- keep pile, give away pile, throw away pile. Sometimes in the midst of this cleaning, I discover things I wish I had, items that would benefit either the organization process or some aspect of my daily life. But far more often, I find items that are broken, out of place, out of style, or simply not necessary anymore.
Isn't your life like that? Mine is. I don't mean it to be that way. You don't either. But life happens, a few things get out of place, dirt accumulates. And there is a mess...in my garage, in my spirit, in my body. Do you know this story?
I say I don't mean for messes to happen in any part of my world. But maybe that's part of the problem. Messes are unintentional...but what IS intentional? What am I intentional about in my life? Think about that for your life.
Life is all about choices. In this new decade, I choose to be intentional about the health of my mind, body and spirit. To rid my world of toxins, ones I contribute and ones I abide. I choose to be intentional about pursuing excellence in my work and my relationships. I choose to be intentional about the fuel I put in this amazing machine God has given me to live in - choosing high octane fuel and exercise not so I can reach a number on a scale, but so i am healthy and able to complete the work He has for me.
I would love to hear about your efforts to be intentional. Together we can lift each other, be cheerleaders pointing to the goal when someone stumbles.
Right now, sleep calls.
G'nite...see you tomorrow,
Beth
WORD.
This quote (thanks JoJo)speaks directly to my choice to stop focusing on the food ... think about the things I can do, instead of the foods I can't eat. Besides being a foolish choice from an emotional standpoint, giving thought-energy to my longing for food is selfish. Waa Waa Waa I can't have OreosChipsPoptarts and Pepsi to wash it down. Really? REALLY? How about what I CAN do - which is choose high-octane fuel foods every day. Many people in the world don't have the option. So the focus on food is ridiculous. And over.
Let's focus on cleaning...mind, body, and spirit. Great way to start a new decade, isn't it? And it's really not much different than cleaning the garage, which I did in early November. Did I do it because I was bored or didn't have 12 other things to do or wanted dirt in my sinuses? Nope- just wanted the car to have a snow-free home.
You know the routine- keep pile, give away pile, throw away pile. Sometimes in the midst of this cleaning, I discover things I wish I had, items that would benefit either the organization process or some aspect of my daily life. But far more often, I find items that are broken, out of place, out of style, or simply not necessary anymore.
Isn't your life like that? Mine is. I don't mean it to be that way. You don't either. But life happens, a few things get out of place, dirt accumulates. And there is a mess...in my garage, in my spirit, in my body. Do you know this story?
I say I don't mean for messes to happen in any part of my world. But maybe that's part of the problem. Messes are unintentional...but what IS intentional? What am I intentional about in my life? Think about that for your life.
Life is all about choices. In this new decade, I choose to be intentional about the health of my mind, body and spirit. To rid my world of toxins, ones I contribute and ones I abide. I choose to be intentional about pursuing excellence in my work and my relationships. I choose to be intentional about the fuel I put in this amazing machine God has given me to live in - choosing high octane fuel and exercise not so I can reach a number on a scale, but so i am healthy and able to complete the work He has for me.
I would love to hear about your efforts to be intentional. Together we can lift each other, be cheerleaders pointing to the goal when someone stumbles.
Right now, sleep calls.
G'nite...see you tomorrow,
Beth
Monday, January 4, 2010
Biggest Loser Day 2. Losing weight or bitterness or what?
Day 2 is almost complete . I believe I have lost 7 pounds...hey, it's my story - I will tell it my way.
I have made good food choices. And I did more research. The human body is a constant source of amazement, don't you think? Such intricate processes from the time food enters the mouth until it passes through 35 feet of intestine and is expelled. And I wonder yet again why I choose to put all sorts of nasty fuel in this machine??
What I know, however, is that overeating and bad eating is rarely about the food. You knew that too, didn't you? Being overweight is not simply about eating too much - losing the weight is not as easy as not eating.
Sunday's sermon topic was bitterness. I wonder how many weight issues have bitterness as a major contributor...I wonder if it contributed to mine. That's part of the goal. Not just treat the symptom (too much weight) but identify the source. Bitterness, boredom, lack of self-esteem...a cup of each?
Focus on weight loss and seeking out the underlying cause? That's rather demanding. Perhaps unrealistic.
I asked myself this question today: which will be more effective for the long haul? Focusing on losing weight or seeking the underlying cause? The answer is: I am giving up the focus on weight loss.
Maybe it's not the same for you. Maybe you need or want to focus on the weight loss. And that's cool. But for me, in this time and place, I choose to stop giving thought energy to the food and seek answers to questions like why I would NEVER allow my house, vehicle or yard to become overrun with garbage, but I have allowed my body to accumulate 60 pounds of fat?
In truth, I can't FOCUS on that either...more like open my heart and mind each day, listen, uncover.
Sleep calls.
See you tomorrow...Beth
I have made good food choices. And I did more research. The human body is a constant source of amazement, don't you think? Such intricate processes from the time food enters the mouth until it passes through 35 feet of intestine and is expelled. And I wonder yet again why I choose to put all sorts of nasty fuel in this machine??
What I know, however, is that overeating and bad eating is rarely about the food. You knew that too, didn't you? Being overweight is not simply about eating too much - losing the weight is not as easy as not eating.
Sunday's sermon topic was bitterness. I wonder how many weight issues have bitterness as a major contributor...I wonder if it contributed to mine. That's part of the goal. Not just treat the symptom (too much weight) but identify the source. Bitterness, boredom, lack of self-esteem...a cup of each?
Focus on weight loss and seeking out the underlying cause? That's rather demanding. Perhaps unrealistic.
I asked myself this question today: which will be more effective for the long haul? Focusing on losing weight or seeking the underlying cause? The answer is: I am giving up the focus on weight loss.
Maybe it's not the same for you. Maybe you need or want to focus on the weight loss. And that's cool. But for me, in this time and place, I choose to stop giving thought energy to the food and seek answers to questions like why I would NEVER allow my house, vehicle or yard to become overrun with garbage, but I have allowed my body to accumulate 60 pounds of fat?
In truth, I can't FOCUS on that either...more like open my heart and mind each day, listen, uncover.
Sleep calls.
See you tomorrow...Beth
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Overweight vehicles must stop at weigh-station...GAME ON!!
So here are the ugly numbers: weight =214/waist 39/ hips 46.5
When I started my first "cubicle" job in August 2002, I weighed 148. Wow. I had a dream last night that my midsection suddenly began making a humming noise. A doctor listened and told me it was the sound of my distended bowel. She said the humming would continue until I lost significant weight. Nothing Freudian there, eh?
I am astonished by these numbers. But there are what they are, so the other adjectives in my brain will not be given a voice. The key now is to change them, not talk about how bad they are.
We'll talk later today...I am off to church...praying for strength against potato chips ;)
"You wander from room to room
Hunting for the diamond necklace
That is already around your neck!"
-- Jalal-Uddin Rumi
The diamond I seek is already present...just buried. Here's to uncovering!
When I started my first "cubicle" job in August 2002, I weighed 148. Wow. I had a dream last night that my midsection suddenly began making a humming noise. A doctor listened and told me it was the sound of my distended bowel. She said the humming would continue until I lost significant weight. Nothing Freudian there, eh?
I am astonished by these numbers. But there are what they are, so the other adjectives in my brain will not be given a voice. The key now is to change them, not talk about how bad they are.
We'll talk later today...I am off to church...praying for strength against potato chips ;)
"You wander from room to room
Hunting for the diamond necklace
That is already around your neck!"
-- Jalal-Uddin Rumi
The diamond I seek is already present...just buried. Here's to uncovering!
Saturday, January 2, 2010
T-minus 8 hours...first step toward Lightness of being
The Biggest Loser contest is but a night's sleep away. And I am READY!!
Today I went to the movie theatre and fairly screeched "YES, it's my last chance" when asked if I wanted butter on the popcorn...
Don't send me emails - I know it can't be that way. Extreme doesn't work. In any situation.
What I am excited about is being more healthy, not feeling like a slug, having a new /old wardrobe. I could bring myself down with "how did I get here" talk - but I AM here so the reasons only matter so I understand how to keep from being here again. Negative self-talk will not benefit me at all! I also look forward to this step being the initial one in a year of positive change in many areas, moving toward lightness of being in body, mind, and spirit
The most encouraging thing for me right now is that I can clearly visualize how I will look when it's time to wear shorts. In the past, I have wished for it or hoped for it...now I can see it, which makes the path more clear.
Tonight, the sand man is on my heels. Look for an early edition tomorrow - first weigh in then taking measurements (for my own benefit). Time now for good rest.
Thanks for walking with me - see you tomorrow.
Beth =)
Today I went to the movie theatre and fairly screeched "YES, it's my last chance" when asked if I wanted butter on the popcorn...
Don't send me emails - I know it can't be that way. Extreme doesn't work. In any situation.
What I am excited about is being more healthy, not feeling like a slug, having a new /old wardrobe. I could bring myself down with "how did I get here" talk - but I AM here so the reasons only matter so I understand how to keep from being here again. Negative self-talk will not benefit me at all! I also look forward to this step being the initial one in a year of positive change in many areas, moving toward lightness of being in body, mind, and spirit
The most encouraging thing for me right now is that I can clearly visualize how I will look when it's time to wear shorts. In the past, I have wished for it or hoped for it...now I can see it, which makes the path more clear.
Tonight, the sand man is on my heels. Look for an early edition tomorrow - first weigh in then taking measurements (for my own benefit). Time now for good rest.
Thanks for walking with me - see you tomorrow.
Beth =)
Friday, January 1, 2010
T-minus 32 hours and other January plans
10:45 PM 01/01/10...T-minus 32 hours.
The Biggest Loser contest I have entered has its first weigh-in Sunday morning. And I intend to win!
This is deja vu all over again because I won the women's portion of a BL contest at the start of 2009. And yet, here I am.
What can I do this year to make sure the result is different? Internet searches and leafing through books and magazines brings some inspiration, and some helpful tips. But am I determined? Have I decided?
That's the key, isn't it? Because I do get to decide...every minute of every day, I decide what I will put in my body and what type of energy I will exert. So this chance is exciting. I am inspired by the opportunity to have others looking over my shoulder as I choose new eating and exercising habits.
You see, I watch The Biggest Loser every season, but I don't find it to be especially inspirational. The trainers or contestants pretend I should be able to lose weight because folks on "the ranch" do. Really? REALLY??
Dig this, Jillian - I am not on a ranch, with a personal trainer in my face, with a chef to prepare my meals, and all other daily obligations removed. You put me on that ranch and I will leave in sizzlin' hot shape.
What should inspire me is the genetic ties to diabetes and heart disease, my increasing problems with asthma, and the discomfort caused by the 50 pounds of junk that has accumulated in my midsection. There is a beloved dog who needs to walk more, home projects to be completed, fun clothes that haven't been worn for 2 years. And they are currently buried under fatigue-inducing fat!
So I have decided. Drawn the line. Frequently visualized how I will look and feel. I am going to share this journey...right down to listing my weight and measurements. Maybe it will help someone else.
I have been thin, and I have been identified by the Wii Fitness Board tyrant as "obese" - I like thin better. My eating habits will change. But for most of us, it's not about the food. Food is the self-medication, not the issue...we'll talk about this along the way.
Come along. It will be fun for both of us!
See you tomorrow...Beth
The Biggest Loser contest I have entered has its first weigh-in Sunday morning. And I intend to win!
This is deja vu all over again because I won the women's portion of a BL contest at the start of 2009. And yet, here I am.
What can I do this year to make sure the result is different? Internet searches and leafing through books and magazines brings some inspiration, and some helpful tips. But am I determined? Have I decided?
That's the key, isn't it? Because I do get to decide...every minute of every day, I decide what I will put in my body and what type of energy I will exert. So this chance is exciting. I am inspired by the opportunity to have others looking over my shoulder as I choose new eating and exercising habits.
You see, I watch The Biggest Loser every season, but I don't find it to be especially inspirational. The trainers or contestants pretend I should be able to lose weight because folks on "the ranch" do. Really? REALLY??
Dig this, Jillian - I am not on a ranch, with a personal trainer in my face, with a chef to prepare my meals, and all other daily obligations removed. You put me on that ranch and I will leave in sizzlin' hot shape.
What should inspire me is the genetic ties to diabetes and heart disease, my increasing problems with asthma, and the discomfort caused by the 50 pounds of junk that has accumulated in my midsection. There is a beloved dog who needs to walk more, home projects to be completed, fun clothes that haven't been worn for 2 years. And they are currently buried under fatigue-inducing fat!
So I have decided. Drawn the line. Frequently visualized how I will look and feel. I am going to share this journey...right down to listing my weight and measurements. Maybe it will help someone else.
I have been thin, and I have been identified by the Wii Fitness Board tyrant as "obese" - I like thin better. My eating habits will change. But for most of us, it's not about the food. Food is the self-medication, not the issue...we'll talk about this along the way.
Come along. It will be fun for both of us!
See you tomorrow...Beth
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Black Friday, the sparkle season, and me
Black Friday is winding down.
I don't know what, if anything, that means to you. When I worked in retail management, this day was rather fun...when you are behind the counter, long lines are a good thing!
Now I avoid shopping on Black Friday. Part of the reason is I am not really a fan of struggling through crowds with several bags in tow. Although, with the right companion, I can spend time sitting in the mall, watching people, making up stories about them.
Beyond the crowds, however, there is something else about Black Friday that is troublesome to me. And yet, I can't clearly define my objections.
To some degree it is the abject consumerism. But I love choosing presents, and have often been accused of buying too much.
Maybe it is the craziness of stores opening at 12:01AM. Or that it is the start of stores being open for 14,15,16 hours each day. As if 11 hours isn't enough. But I generally take advantage of these monger hours at least once or twice each year.
Or is it the fact that Santa now arrives on Nov. 1? Is that really necessary? Back in the day, part of the fun of the day after Thanksgiving was that Santa arrived during the annual Christmas Parade. I passed him twice in the mall last week - he was sitting alone, no kids in sight. Poor guy could be at home making more gifts for me.
I love Christmas decorations and, yes, I took advantage of warm temperatures to put my outdoor lights up on Nov. 22. But, out of respect for Thanksgiving, the yard remained dark until this evening.
More than anything, I see Black Friday as symbolic of what I see as the negative side of this beautiful season. Consumerism is, obviously, not intended meaning of Christmas. I enjoy gift-giving and receiving. But I am also well-acquainted with what the pressure of buying does to some people.
That pressure to keep up is one of the reasons this period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is recognized in psychological and psychiatric services as being one of the most difficult. The strain of watching Black Friday madness while not having money in the budget for gifts, the sadness that comes from thinking everyone else is attending fabulous parties every weekend while you sit at home, the loneliness associated with "the most wonderful time of the year" will never be cured by spending copious amounts of money on gifts.
I am not opposed in any way to gifts or to holiday gatherings. And while I have never smelled chestnuts on a fire, nor am I a fan of Jack Frost, yuletide carols are my favorite. In fact, we need more carols, more songs about the JOY of this season, of the hope it offers the entire world.
Even if you aren't a Christian, you would benefit from those of us who do make the proclamation actually becoming proponents of peace on Earth and Goodwill to all.
And THAT is Christmas to me. Not a 20% sale or the ability to shop at 4AM or having to fight someone for the last zhu zhu pet. Although I do enjoy receiving gifts.
While it is not impossible to embrace both sides of this season, we live in a culture that does not allow us to focus on the true meaning, but devotes much time and attention to sales and crowds. We say "Happy Holidays" and call it the "sparkle" season. We try to avoid being exclusive, with the result of often missing the folks who need the best of our time and attention.
My hope is that in the next month I can, indeed, finds nice gifts for my loved ones. But at the same time, I pray for a heart open to see and hear the needs of people around me. THAT is what Christmas means, all year long.
But did I mention I like getting gifts?
I don't know what, if anything, that means to you. When I worked in retail management, this day was rather fun...when you are behind the counter, long lines are a good thing!
Now I avoid shopping on Black Friday. Part of the reason is I am not really a fan of struggling through crowds with several bags in tow. Although, with the right companion, I can spend time sitting in the mall, watching people, making up stories about them.
Beyond the crowds, however, there is something else about Black Friday that is troublesome to me. And yet, I can't clearly define my objections.
To some degree it is the abject consumerism. But I love choosing presents, and have often been accused of buying too much.
Maybe it is the craziness of stores opening at 12:01AM. Or that it is the start of stores being open for 14,15,16 hours each day. As if 11 hours isn't enough. But I generally take advantage of these monger hours at least once or twice each year.
Or is it the fact that Santa now arrives on Nov. 1? Is that really necessary? Back in the day, part of the fun of the day after Thanksgiving was that Santa arrived during the annual Christmas Parade. I passed him twice in the mall last week - he was sitting alone, no kids in sight. Poor guy could be at home making more gifts for me.
I love Christmas decorations and, yes, I took advantage of warm temperatures to put my outdoor lights up on Nov. 22. But, out of respect for Thanksgiving, the yard remained dark until this evening.
More than anything, I see Black Friday as symbolic of what I see as the negative side of this beautiful season. Consumerism is, obviously, not intended meaning of Christmas. I enjoy gift-giving and receiving. But I am also well-acquainted with what the pressure of buying does to some people.
That pressure to keep up is one of the reasons this period between Thanksgiving and Christmas is recognized in psychological and psychiatric services as being one of the most difficult. The strain of watching Black Friday madness while not having money in the budget for gifts, the sadness that comes from thinking everyone else is attending fabulous parties every weekend while you sit at home, the loneliness associated with "the most wonderful time of the year" will never be cured by spending copious amounts of money on gifts.
I am not opposed in any way to gifts or to holiday gatherings. And while I have never smelled chestnuts on a fire, nor am I a fan of Jack Frost, yuletide carols are my favorite. In fact, we need more carols, more songs about the JOY of this season, of the hope it offers the entire world.
Even if you aren't a Christian, you would benefit from those of us who do make the proclamation actually becoming proponents of peace on Earth and Goodwill to all.
And THAT is Christmas to me. Not a 20% sale or the ability to shop at 4AM or having to fight someone for the last zhu zhu pet. Although I do enjoy receiving gifts.
While it is not impossible to embrace both sides of this season, we live in a culture that does not allow us to focus on the true meaning, but devotes much time and attention to sales and crowds. We say "Happy Holidays" and call it the "sparkle" season. We try to avoid being exclusive, with the result of often missing the folks who need the best of our time and attention.
My hope is that in the next month I can, indeed, finds nice gifts for my loved ones. But at the same time, I pray for a heart open to see and hear the needs of people around me. THAT is what Christmas means, all year long.
But did I mention I like getting gifts?
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Birthdays, Gratitude, and the Significance of 5-0
I turned 50 this week.
The number doesn't bother me. I consider every year - no, every day- to be a blessing. As folks like to say, "Celebrating another birthday is better than the alternative!"
But I do find it to be odd, mostly because my mother's 50th birthday is the first "zero" birthday of hers I remember. Obviously, when she turned 30 I was a child. When she turned 40, I was 19 and in college. But for her 50th birthday I surprised her with a trip to Disney World and Bradenton, FL, the Pittsburgh Pirates' spring training site.
That intergenerational crossing is strange. To think that I am now the same age as my mother was when we took that trip is, for lack of a better word, freaky.
Beyond that, the number is not troublesome. I appreciate the wisdom I have gained, even if I was often ungrateful in the moment. I am thankful to be in a place of doing what I love for a living. Writing is such a blessing - and I get to do it every day! Such a gift that is.
One of my favorite parts of getting older is that I am finally weary of thinking about ME ME ME. What about me? What about my feelings? What about what I want? The thought of it is, thankfully, so tiring to me now.
At the risk of sounding trite, the world is an amazing place when it is experienced through eyes and a heart that is no longer self-consumed. The beauty of creation can move me to tears. The simplicity inspires me. The consistency of the seasons challenges me live the same way, to be person my loved ones can count on.
The people with whom I share this journey, whether for a moment or lifetime, are the source of the most amazement. It is easy to say everyone has a story, everyone has hurts, fears, experiences that shape their life. But I am continually humbled by the challenges some folks have each day, the tragedies some have experienced, the heartaches some of faced.
Half of my lifetime ago, I lived with my beloved Grandmother as she battled and eventually succumbed to congestive heart failure. For a number of reasons, the lessons were mostly lost on me at the time. One of the benefits of age is the opportunity to reshape how the past is viewed. I have an appreciation for the pain and the loss of dignity she endured. And while I still wish I could see her face again, I hear her voice and feel her presence, with increasing strength and clarity.
But , in the shadow of this milestone birthday, I stand in awe of this: There are people who have loved me for every one of those 50 years . Some friends have loved me for 15,20,25 years. And I have loved each of them. That is a treasure beyond compare. Knowing that a person accepts and loves me through all circumstances is a gift that makes me stronger, gives me courage, allows me to take chances knowing I have a safety net.
That is a reason to celebrate being 50!
The number doesn't bother me. I consider every year - no, every day- to be a blessing. As folks like to say, "Celebrating another birthday is better than the alternative!"
But I do find it to be odd, mostly because my mother's 50th birthday is the first "zero" birthday of hers I remember. Obviously, when she turned 30 I was a child. When she turned 40, I was 19 and in college. But for her 50th birthday I surprised her with a trip to Disney World and Bradenton, FL, the Pittsburgh Pirates' spring training site.
That intergenerational crossing is strange. To think that I am now the same age as my mother was when we took that trip is, for lack of a better word, freaky.
Beyond that, the number is not troublesome. I appreciate the wisdom I have gained, even if I was often ungrateful in the moment. I am thankful to be in a place of doing what I love for a living. Writing is such a blessing - and I get to do it every day! Such a gift that is.
One of my favorite parts of getting older is that I am finally weary of thinking about ME ME ME. What about me? What about my feelings? What about what I want? The thought of it is, thankfully, so tiring to me now.
At the risk of sounding trite, the world is an amazing place when it is experienced through eyes and a heart that is no longer self-consumed. The beauty of creation can move me to tears. The simplicity inspires me. The consistency of the seasons challenges me live the same way, to be person my loved ones can count on.
The people with whom I share this journey, whether for a moment or lifetime, are the source of the most amazement. It is easy to say everyone has a story, everyone has hurts, fears, experiences that shape their life. But I am continually humbled by the challenges some folks have each day, the tragedies some have experienced, the heartaches some of faced.
Half of my lifetime ago, I lived with my beloved Grandmother as she battled and eventually succumbed to congestive heart failure. For a number of reasons, the lessons were mostly lost on me at the time. One of the benefits of age is the opportunity to reshape how the past is viewed. I have an appreciation for the pain and the loss of dignity she endured. And while I still wish I could see her face again, I hear her voice and feel her presence, with increasing strength and clarity.
But , in the shadow of this milestone birthday, I stand in awe of this: There are people who have loved me for every one of those 50 years . Some friends have loved me for 15,20,25 years. And I have loved each of them. That is a treasure beyond compare. Knowing that a person accepts and loves me through all circumstances is a gift that makes me stronger, gives me courage, allows me to take chances knowing I have a safety net.
That is a reason to celebrate being 50!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Einstein, Newton, coffee, my Westie...the conclusion
You know how sometimes the morning is going along nicely, you are drinking coffee, reading the morning paper...
That was me..until my beautiful Westie ran into the room, jumped on my lap, spilling the coffee... I screamed, she tried to flee and knocked the laptop off the ottoman...MASS CHAOS in 3 seconds or less..
A perfect example of all three of Newton's Laws of physics. Quick...name them.
• A body in motion stays in motion until acted on by another force
• Force =mass times acceleration
• and my favorite, For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction
This is not a physics lesson...keep reading...
This mini-disaster also generated lots of energy. It takes approximately 1 joule to lift a small apple one meter over your head. According to Albert Einstein, my sweet 17 pound dog has approximately 719,004,142,989,454,112 joules of potential energy. Of course, that amount could only be reached if she were to spontaneously explode.
But that's not my point.
And you're saying, "What is you point, egghead?"
My point is there is a LOT of potential energy just waiting to be used, inertia just waiting to push something around.
Do you have a dream in your head? A job or hobby you are longing to pursue? A calling that won't let go of your heart?
Maybe you want to go back to school and pursue a different career. Or open a specialty retail store. Or become a dog trainer. Or a chef...or a florist. The possibilities are endless.
And know this: dreams don't come alive in your heart to play a painful joke on you. You aren't ever give a dream that can't be fulfilled, even if it has to be tweaked bit.
Also know this: whatever you dwell on comes to being. There are no exceptions. Because thoughts are energy, thoughts create their own reality.
If you think your dream can come true - you're right.
If you think your dream is impossible - you're right.
Name your dream. Hold a picture of it in your mind. See it coming true every day. Then take action. A small first step. Then another. Inertia will keep it moving and the law of reciprocating motion will build on each success.
Please send me your thoughts...and be alert for the dog jumping on your lap...
Peace.
That was me..until my beautiful Westie ran into the room, jumped on my lap, spilling the coffee... I screamed, she tried to flee and knocked the laptop off the ottoman...MASS CHAOS in 3 seconds or less..
A perfect example of all three of Newton's Laws of physics. Quick...name them.
• A body in motion stays in motion until acted on by another force
• Force =mass times acceleration
• and my favorite, For every action there is an equal and opposite reaction
This is not a physics lesson...keep reading...
This mini-disaster also generated lots of energy. It takes approximately 1 joule to lift a small apple one meter over your head. According to Albert Einstein, my sweet 17 pound dog has approximately 719,004,142,989,454,112 joules of potential energy. Of course, that amount could only be reached if she were to spontaneously explode.
But that's not my point.
And you're saying, "What is you point, egghead?"
My point is there is a LOT of potential energy just waiting to be used, inertia just waiting to push something around.
Do you have a dream in your head? A job or hobby you are longing to pursue? A calling that won't let go of your heart?
Maybe you want to go back to school and pursue a different career. Or open a specialty retail store. Or become a dog trainer. Or a chef...or a florist. The possibilities are endless.
And know this: dreams don't come alive in your heart to play a painful joke on you. You aren't ever give a dream that can't be fulfilled, even if it has to be tweaked bit.
Also know this: whatever you dwell on comes to being. There are no exceptions. Because thoughts are energy, thoughts create their own reality.
If you think your dream can come true - you're right.
If you think your dream is impossible - you're right.
Name your dream. Hold a picture of it in your mind. See it coming true every day. Then take action. A small first step. Then another. Inertia will keep it moving and the law of reciprocating motion will build on each success.
Please send me your thoughts...and be alert for the dog jumping on your lap...
Peace.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Thinking about coffee, my Westie, Newton and Einstein...
My time is short this morning but here is what I am thinking about...
e=mc2
Three laws of physics
A banana in my coffee
My sweet Westie...
Maybe you already know where I'm going? We'll talk in a few hours =)
Until then, peace!
e=mc2
Three laws of physics
A banana in my coffee
My sweet Westie...
Maybe you already know where I'm going? We'll talk in a few hours =)
Until then, peace!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Seneca's Tips on Sailing
What plans do you have?
"If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is the right wind." - Seneca
Can you believe Thanksgiving has come around again? Where has the year gone? Where has YOUR year gone? Do you even know? Or do your days rush by in a blur with no direction?
The great Roman philosopher Seneca was right on, wasn't he? Statistics show that only 3% of us have tangible goals. The other 97% are sailing with no port in mind. Just going where the wind blows us. Watching the years fly by.
Success in any venture requires a plan. So often we overlook this wisdom, don't we? And yet, we hope the chef at our favorite restaurant has plan. We surely hope the dentist with a drill has a plan.
Don't tell me it's different. It only seems different because you didn't have to make the plan and follow through. Most of what we do would be more successful if we had a plan. Big things, small things, short-term or long-term. CEO's and pastors need plans. Generals and teachers need plans. Coaches for every sport at every level need a detailed plan. Even when I coached elementary basketball and T-ball, there had to be a daily plan.
I have not always been a stellar example of planning and following through. But I am making strides, laying out specific ports where I want to land, calculating wind speed and direction to get there...and leaving room for spontaneous fun!
If you are doing that as well, or if you want to talk about how, or if you think this column is complete bunk, leave me a comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts...
Peace.
"If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is the right wind." - Seneca
Can you believe Thanksgiving has come around again? Where has the year gone? Where has YOUR year gone? Do you even know? Or do your days rush by in a blur with no direction?
The great Roman philosopher Seneca was right on, wasn't he? Statistics show that only 3% of us have tangible goals. The other 97% are sailing with no port in mind. Just going where the wind blows us. Watching the years fly by.
Success in any venture requires a plan. So often we overlook this wisdom, don't we? And yet, we hope the chef at our favorite restaurant has plan. We surely hope the dentist with a drill has a plan.
Don't tell me it's different. It only seems different because you didn't have to make the plan and follow through. Most of what we do would be more successful if we had a plan. Big things, small things, short-term or long-term. CEO's and pastors need plans. Generals and teachers need plans. Coaches for every sport at every level need a detailed plan. Even when I coached elementary basketball and T-ball, there had to be a daily plan.
I have not always been a stellar example of planning and following through. But I am making strides, laying out specific ports where I want to land, calculating wind speed and direction to get there...and leaving room for spontaneous fun!
If you are doing that as well, or if you want to talk about how, or if you think this column is complete bunk, leave me a comment. I'd love to hear your thoughts...
Peace.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
THINK BIG!!!
Humorous story...The church secretary answers the phone and a man's voice says, "I'd like to speak to the head hog of the trough."
The secretary is offended. "Sir, if you mean the pastor, you may speak to him but you may NOT call him the head hog of the trough."
The man reveals that he would like to donate $10,000 to the church.
To which the secretary repsonds, "Hold on, I'll get Porky on the phone."
We alter our perspective sometimes, don't we? Ideas are more or less attractive based on what we see as the pay-out for us.
Sometimes that's a good thing. And sometimes it isn't.
Because everything has a price.
Integrity.
Honesty.
Prosperity.
Living your Truth.
Pursuing your dream.
Not doing any of the above.
They all have a price, and the pay-out is generally not immediate, and is not always easy to calculate.
So if both positve and negative (living your dream or settling for mediocrity) both have a price, why not choose the high road.
Think Big about dreams...focus small on the daily details.
Don't be blown with the wind. Don't allow emotions to sway you.
Let's Go...the ride is gonna be great!
The secretary is offended. "Sir, if you mean the pastor, you may speak to him but you may NOT call him the head hog of the trough."
The man reveals that he would like to donate $10,000 to the church.
To which the secretary repsonds, "Hold on, I'll get Porky on the phone."
We alter our perspective sometimes, don't we? Ideas are more or less attractive based on what we see as the pay-out for us.
Sometimes that's a good thing. And sometimes it isn't.
Because everything has a price.
Integrity.
Honesty.
Prosperity.
Living your Truth.
Pursuing your dream.
Not doing any of the above.
They all have a price, and the pay-out is generally not immediate, and is not always easy to calculate.
So if both positve and negative (living your dream or settling for mediocrity) both have a price, why not choose the high road.
Think Big about dreams...focus small on the daily details.
Don't be blown with the wind. Don't allow emotions to sway you.
Let's Go...the ride is gonna be great!
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