Leighanne's Journal

2008-07-02T14:48:00.000+10:00

Have finally posted after a long absence:)

2008-03-29T18:25:00.000+11:00

A long over due post at my private blog!

- email for an invite leighanne22@gmail.com

2008-01-08T00:28:00.001+11:00

New post over at my new blog!!

Email me for invite leighanne22@gmail.com

new year - new blog

2008-01-03T14:56:00.000+11:00

I have decided to make a fresh go of it and start a new blog-
You can find me here http://personal-journal-of-lee.blogspot.com
I have decided to keep it private as its hard to know who is reading in 'real life'
So if you have not recieved an invite just email me at leighanne22@gmail.com

Lee

2007-12-26T10:03:00.000+11:00

I hope everyone had a great Christmas!!!

We spent the day relaxing at my brothers house.... he has 170 acres, so the kids had a ball riding motorbikes and spending time with all their cousins. When we got home a girlfriend came over for a quiet drink which was nice.

After all the rushing around in the lead up to the day, it is great for it to be over so I can slow down a bit:) I did well foodwise - didn't diet, just ate normal...had a few drinks, and I was happy to see this morning that I only gained .2 for the day:)

Vic is off work for 3 weeks, so I will be taking advantage of him being home to get to the gym as often as I can - in past years over the christmas break ( my next real weigh in is on the 11th) I normally gain at least 3 kilo's...I am determined it won't happen this year!!

I have a huge box of chockies sitting in the cupboard which I was given during the week from work - Last thursday night we had a huge storm and the whole store flooded, we had to close, and then spent the next couple of hours mopping up water....was quite a workout...the owner was grateful that we stayed to help that he gave us all choc and a six pack of cans ( they are gone already...lol) I will not be opening the box...because I know I will end up eating the lot - I may just give them away I think!!

I hope you are all having fun over the holidays - I am back to work on friday!

2007-12-17T22:38:00.002+11:00

Things have really been busy lately...I have finally finished my Chrissie shoping which is a great relief:)
Work has been really full on, and the boys have so much to do at this time of year!
Weight is still going down slowly 92.4 last week:)

I was sent this today so I thought I'd share for all you mothers out there:

Before I was a Mom:
I never tripped over toys or forgot words to a lullaby.
I didn't worry whether or not my plants were poisonous.
I never thought about immunizations.

Before I was a Mom -I had never been puked on.
Pooped on.
Chewed on.
Peed on.
I had complete control of my mind and my thoughts.
I slept all night.

Before I was a Mom I never held down a screaming child so doctors could do tests.
Or give shots.
I never looked into teary eyes and cried.
I never got gloriously happy over a simple grin.
I never sat up late hours at night watching a baby sleep.

Before I was a MomI never held a sleeping baby just because I didn't want to put her down.
I never felt my heart break into a million pieces when I couldn't stop the hurt.
I never knew that something so small could affect my life so much.
I never knew that I could love someone so much.
I never knew I would love being a Mom.

Before I was a Mom -I didn't know the feeling of having my heart outside my body.
I didn't know how special it could feel to feed a hungry baby.
I didn't know that bond between a mother and her child.
I didn't know that something so small could make me feel so important and happy.

Before I was a Mom -I had never gotten up in the middle of the night every 10 minutes to make sure all was okay.
I had never known the warmth, the joy, the love, the heartache,the wonderment or the satisfaction of being a Mom.
I didn't know I was capable of feeling so much, before I was a Mom.

I'm back...

2007-12-04T10:28:00.000+11:00

Sorry about my extended absence from blogging - it is mostly due to having no phone connection for over a month - very frustrating!!
Also things have been so busy that when I do get a chance to get online...time is limited!

Things are going great here - lots of work, lots of study and things with the boys...I can't wait for the holidays to get a rest!

My weight went back up a bit while I was gone...but I am happy to say that it's coming down slowly - last weeks weigh in saw 93.7.

The last few weeks I have stopped stressing about points/fat/cals etc and just tried to eat when I am hungry and just not go overboard on crap...it seems to be working, small loses and less stress...lets hope I can keep it up:)

Busy weekend...

2007-10-19T07:39:00.000+10:00

I tried my new program - it is very different, using some equipment that is new to me, which is great to keep me motivated:)

Yesterday, after I did my shopping I went for a walk with my Dad - we are planning on walking every Thursday - it is great for me as he will whinge if I don't turn up...lol
Dad has had operations on his knees in the last year, so as well as wanting to lose weight, he also needs to move to keep his knees going.

We have a busy weekend planned....tonight Jason is going to scout camp, he was packed last night, he is really excited as at the moment he is making the leap between cubs and scouts and was invited to camp with them - I think the fact that his little brother isn't going makes it even more exciting.

The lancefeild Show is on this Sunday, I am part of the organising committee so after work on Saturday I will be there setting up, and we will be there all Sunday.
Some family will be up for the show, so we will end up having drinks afterwards Sunday night for my Birthday (Monday).

As I reached my first mini goal already (jeans fitting), I have thought of a new one. For work I was told to buy a Christmas t-shirt to wear in Dec instead of our uniform. I brought one yesterday which does fit, but shows my rolls, I could wear it now, but I will feel more comfortable if it was a bit looser - so my next mini goal is to be able to wear the t-shirt and not feel totally self conscious in it!!

Well must get the kids off to school...and head off to the gym:)

I lost!

2007-10-17T10:07:00.000+10:00

Last week: 95 kilos
This week: 94.2 kilos
Lost: .8
Left to lose: 29.2

Very happy with that loss, goes to show I can go away and still lose:)

Had a great weekend - went for a walk near the lake on Saturday morning with my Dad which was nice to spend one on one time with him. Eating was ok - had takeaway for lunch, then buffet for tea. Only had two drinks though - mixed with diet coke as I was driver.

On sunday while everyone else was hungover I walked to the cemetary to put some flowers on Nan's grave. Then we all went out for lunch before coming home.

Another thing....I wore my Jeans!!!! So that is one mini goal out of the way...will have to think of another one now!

I have a gym assessment today, to write up a new program which will be interesting!

2007-10-12T09:34:00.000+10:00

Thankyou for all your support, it really helps keep up the motivation:)

Things are still going well, this morning I walked the kids to school with Sarge instead of going to the gym - I have to go to work at 12pm, then we are going to Yarrawonga for the weekend for a friends 50th. We are staying at my Uncles house and I have free rein in the kitchen, so eating should not be a problem, except for the night of the party. I have already offered to drive, so I won't be drinking.
I have also planned to go for a walk near the lake with my Dad on saturday morning - and will go on Sunday too while all the others are still asleep and hungover. It is really nice walking up there, so many memories of all the holidays while growing up:)

Well I must go pack and get ready for work - Hope everyone has a great weekend:)

Quick update...

2007-10-09T11:20:00.000+10:00

I weighed in Monday morning at 95 kilo's.

I have done my measurements. I have been drinking water.
I went back to the gym...I forgot the feeling afterwards...felt like I could do anything!!!

My first mini goal is to fit back into my jeans...there is about an inch gap...I would love to be able to wear them by my birthday:)

The holidays are over...

2007-10-07T23:50:00.000+10:00

The boys are back to school tommorow...which means I can get back into a routine that includes going back to the gym on a regular basis, it has been ages since my last visit.

Now is the time to get my butt into gear...clothes are getting tight...I can't wear my jeans anymore....this has to stop!

It is my birthday in two weeks and I want to start feeling good about myself...no time like the present to start!!

I have written up a plan that has exercise written on as appointments so I can work around things I need to do - I have been so unorganised lately....I am a list person so it will help having to cross these things off.

I am also going to go back to writing my food down in a notebook.

I will post my weight in the morning with some measurements, so I can keep track of things. (after I get back from the gym, of course!)

The Guest House

2007-10-02T13:02:00.000+10:00

This was sent to me today;

The Guest House

This being human is a guest house.

Every morning a new arrival.

A joy, a depression, a meanness,

some momentary awareness comes

as an unexpected visitor.

Welcome and entertain them all!

Even if they're a crowd of sorrows,

who violently sweep your house

empty of its furniture,

still, treat each guest honourably.

He may be clearing you out

for some new delight.

The dark thought, the shame, the malice -

meet them at the door laughing,

and invite them in.

Be grateful for whoever comes,

because each has been sent

as a guide from beyond.

2007-10-01T09:22:00.000+10:00

I have been a really bad blogger - the boys are on school holidays at the moment, and I have been busy trying to keep them occupied:)

We have gone out a fair bit, watched some movies, caught up with friends - it has been nice being able to sleep in and not rush around. My Dad picked them both up yesterday and has taken them camping...they will be gone till Tuesday night, I miss them already...the house has been so quiet:)

I have got alot of jobs done - cleaned out the fridge, got rid of my washing pile - so am feeling much more relaxed - later I am going to go have a look at a book sale before heading off to work.
Tommorrow I am starting a retail course at work - feeling a bit excited/nervous as it has been years since I have studied - the course goes for about 18 months...eeek

On wednesday we will be taking a day trip to Bendigo to go get a scout uniform for Jason, now that he is 10 and a half he will be linking between cubs and scouts - we went to Highpoint last week to get a uniform but the shop (snowgum) had closed down and Bendigo is the next closest - it's a bit of a drive, so we will take our time and have a look around - I have not been there for years. My Aunty lives there so we will try to catch up, she used to live in Eaglehawk, we used to spend alot of time up ther so I will show the boys the spots we used to hang out!!

On thursday they will be staying with my Dad again as I am working - I will pick them up after work Friday afternoon and Vic will be taking them camping in Yea with some of his mates - so they can't complain of being bored...lol

Food has been just OK - it's hard with the boys home - but I am in a better frame of mind, so will be back to hitting the gym once school starts again:)

Now I'm off to go catch up on google reader - over 80 posts to read!!

Unmotivated...

2007-09-19T11:32:00.000+10:00

I have been feeling very unmotivated of late - I think the stresses of the last few weeks have caught up with me!

I have been working extra shifts, as there are a few people on holidays - Sunday's have been my only day off - which doesn't leave much time for other things - when my house is cluttered I can't think straight!!

Last week Malcolm was in another accident - this time he was on the back of a taxi and it took off - resulted with Mal in hospital with a fractured skull - on the Sunday he had an op to remove a blood clot from his head, very scary! This weekend I got a phone call to come pick him up as he was camping with mates and a tree branch fell on his head - and blood was gushing...so a few hours spent in Kilmore hospital!!!
He did have the cheek to ask me if I would take him back to his friends afterwards...I don't think so!!!
So he has been under careful watch at my place ever since:)

Good news is that Vic's Dad is doing really well - and is enjoying nursing home life:)

My weight has gone up a bit (too scared to get on the scales as I know it will depress me) - I know I need to focus again - but I think I am getting a bit sick of always having to watch what I eat/drink - I just wanna go along like a normal person, not having to think about cals/points/etc. It has been years that I have been 'watching my weight', and I think it's starting to stress me out!!!
So I think I might take a bit of a break - try to eat normally - try not to stress to much!

Gym has been a bit non existant too - because of the extra workload. Once the school holidays are over (they start on Friday) Things will be back to normal, I can't wait to have contol over my days - organisational freak that I am:)

2007-09-05T13:30:00.000+10:00

This was sent to me today - I thought it was quite good:)
Things just plugging along here...nothing much to add!!

1. Do not walk behind me, for I may not lead. Do not walk ahead of me, for I may not follow. Do not walk beside me either. Just pretty much leave me alone.

2. The journey of a thousand miles begins with a broken fan belt and leaky tire

3. It's always darkest before dawn. So if you're going to steal your neighbour's newspaper, that's the time to do it.

4. Don't be irreplaceable. If you can't be replaced, you can't be promoted.

5. Always remember that you're unique. Just like everyone else.

6. Never test the depth of the water with both feet.

7. If you think nobody cares if you're alive, try missing a couple of car payments.

8. Before you criticize someone, you should walk a mile in their shoes. That way, when you criticize them, you're a mile away and you have their shoes.

9. If at first you don't succeed, skydiving is not for you.

10. Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day. Teach him how to fish, and he will sit in a boat and drink beer all day.

11. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it.

12. If you tell the truth, you don't have to remember anything.

13. Some days you're the bug; some days you're the windshield.

14. Everyone seems normal until you get to know them.

15. The quickest way to double your money is to fold it in half and put it back in your pocket.

16. A closed mouth gathers no foot.

17. Duct tape is like "The Force." It has a light side and a dark side, and it holds the universe together.

18. There are two theories to arguing with women. Neither one works.

19. Generally speaking, you aren't learning much when your lips are moving.

20. Experience is something you don't get until just after you need it.

21. Never miss a good chance to shut up.

22. Never, under any circumstances, take a sleeping pill and a laxative on the same night.

2007-09-03T09:58:00.000+10:00

Sorry I've been a really bad blogger - I had not realised that its been so long since my last post!!

I have spent most of the morning catching up on what you are all getting up to on google reader...I didn't have time for comments...sorry!

First thing - Vic's Dad is starting to improve - which is such a huge relief, when he was at his worst (when Vic was over there) they took him off antibiotics as there seemed to be no use continuing - great thing is that going off them has made him better, his skin is not peeling anymore, the blood infection has cleared and he is sitting up in bed!! At this stage they are looking for a nursing home to put him in, as he still has dementia - so at times doesn't know where he is.

Things are still busy here - my supervisor had a heart attack last week, so work has been really busy, with extra shifts....at the moment Sunday is my only day off...and Sundays have been busy, yesterday we had dinner at Dads with the whole family which was nice, next week it's Mums birthday...which is another dinner. I am really looking forward to the school holidays coming up, so I can get a break...lol

Weight - I just checked my last weight entry
Last weigh in 94.4
This week 93.5
Lost 0.9
Total lost 1.6
Left to lose 28.5
It's not a big loss considering how long it has been, but I'm happy it's going downwards...I really need to start concentrating on doing more to be successful:)

Well must go get some housework done, Ciao!!

2007-08-15T14:50:00.000+10:00

No real news as yet - Vic's Dad is still not doing well and its looking like it's only a matter of time before he goes, at the moment he is not recognising anyone, and has been talking as if he is back in the old days when he used to serve on the ships. Vic said he had a 'good' day on monday when they visited, he talked about his family and other things in the present - but since then he has gone back in his own world.
Vic is coming home this afternoon, he has said his goodbyes.
The DRs expected him to pass away already...but he has been hanging on, so it could be a week or so - Vic feels that in a way he has already gone, since his memory has.

The boys are going to be happy to see their Dad again - even though they have been speaking to him on the phone, they have been missing him terribly.

Long time between posts...

2007-08-12T19:44:00.000+10:00

Things have been very stressful lately,

At the start of the week Vic's Dad was found collapsed on his bedroom floor and rushed to hospital, by Friday he was in intensive care...and has just been getting worse. Vic went to Tassie this morning on the first flight out and has spent most of the day with his Dad...He and his other siblings will be meeting again with the dr's in the morning...but at this stage it looks like all they can do is keep him comfortable until he passes away.
The boys and I are planning to stay home until then...the boys saw him while he still remembered who they were...so they will have good memories of their Poppy.

Affirmation

2007-08-03T09:47:00.000+10:00

TODAY

Look in the mirror

And notice

That person

Who greets you

Is beautiful

TODAY

Say to yourself

You know nothing is

Impossible

Remind yourself that

Everyone of your dreams

Is within Reach

TODAY

Think about all of

The People who love you

Who see the beauty in you

And begin to look at yourself

In the same way

Just checking in...

2007-07-31T11:48:00.000+10:00

Things are still going along nicely - weighed in yesterday and LOST weight for the first time in a long time:)

Last week 95.1
This week 94.4
Lost 0.7
Total lost 0.7
Weight left to lose 29.4 kilo's
( to reach goal weight of 65 kilo's)

I am going to love watching that 29.4 go down:)

P.s Wanna - that pic was taken in my loungeroom, you can see a bit of the dining room over my shoulder, our house isn't huge - just high and really open:)

2007-07-26T19:28:00.000+10:00

Things are going great at the moment - taking the time out to plan has really made a difference!!

I know what I will be eating and when, and my personal trainer has my exercise planned out...everything is falling into place!!

I have not peeked at the scales yet, but for the first time in ages I am confident on a loss:)

On Monday I also did my measurements and got Jason to take a 'before' photo...It's not the best, but ya get the idea:)

I am hoping to see a change really soon!

2007-07-22T10:42:00.000+10:00

Firstly I want to send a huge congratulations to Hayley and Adam on the birth of their new daughter, it sounds like Hayley had a long labour...can't wait to see the baby pics:)

Sunday= Plan Day
Today I will start planning again!!!

I am a bit of a list person, and have always been organised ~ at the moment none of that is happening (and it has been driving me crazy!) and I have been neglecting myself lately, life has been busy, with school holidays breaking up my routine...it's been hard to 'get back into it' and I have also been doing extra shifts at work - I wasn't at all surprised to see 95 kilo's on the scale this morning, most meals the last few weeks have been quick and easy, if I have cooked at all!
My sister said to me the other day, if she didn't know better she would think I was pregnant!!, and she is right, lately I have gained a lot of weight around the middle (between boobs and waist) - I can still fit comfortably into my jeans and work pants, but my shirts are bursting at the seams. If I keep going on like this I will be at 100kilos before long (and that is not a milestone I wanna reach). So today is the day to nip it in the bud!!

I already have exercise doing well - I need to concentrate on my eating!
So this afternoon I will be going though my recipes and planning my meals out - if anyone has any lunch/dinner ideas I would love to hear them:)

2007-07-18T08:14:00.000+10:00

Hey Lyn - we live in Lancefield, it is around the middle of Victoria!

It was very surreal, even though the snow melted as it hit the ground in closer towns like Woodend, it was actually covered:)

It's a beautiful sunny day here today:)

I am all revved up for the gym this morning I am planning on doing the podcast while I am on the cross trainer - I have been given a new program lately and every 4-5 sessions I do cardio only, so I am hoping to do the podcast for those sessions to keep me motivated....I will probably be on week 1 for a month...but I don't care:)

2007-07-17T10:12:00.000+10:00

Thanks to Zanna I have found the podcast I need - and it is downloading at the moment...fingers crossed no problems this time:)

I skipped the gym this morning - it is so windy here I was worried about driving in it....I'm glad I stayed home though... as it has started snowing!!!
It looks so cool, I tried to take a photo but you can't really see.... and it melts as it hits the ground - just watching it fall looks so calming :)

I need more help...

2007-07-15T11:35:00.000+10:00

I am feeling really dumb at the moment - I found the couch to 5k podcast where CKK and Zana told me it would be - I downloaded week 1 onto my computer - and here is the problem...
I can listen to it on the computer but I can't put it onto my mp3 player or even a cd!!!
When I try it says it doesn't recognise the program???
Can anyone shed some light??

School goes back tommorrow - which I am really looking forward to, I love having the boys home - but my routine has completely gone - I only mananged two days of gym...my eating has been less than desirable (we have gone out more than we usually do aswell) and I am feeling really FAT!!
So with the boys back at school, I really need to 'get my shit together' !!!

Well must go - Vic has a cousin and family coming to visit this afternoon, who he has not seen in about 20 years...should be fun!!

2007-07-08T16:09:00.000+10:00

During the Holidays I have taken the boys to the pool This is the 'pool monster'

Here is Luke climbing aboard,

...and Jason

They had so much fun we are going back tomorrow!!

Last night we all went out and celebrated my sister Jennifer's 21st. Doesn't seem that long ago since she was a baby:P

It was a great night with the whole family...my we have grown this year...lol, had way to much to drink...so its been a really quiet day here...lol

Can someone help....

2007-07-06T21:54:00.000+10:00

A while ago a few of you were talking about the couch to 5 k podcast.

Since I am now going to the gym I thought it would be great to give it a go, but all I can find on the net is info on what to do eg. how long to do each bit - but I can't find anywhere to go to download the podcast!
Any help will be greatly appreciated:)

2007-07-04T18:39:00.000+10:00

I was sent this in an email and thought I would share....

Is there a magic cut-off period when offspring become accountable for their own actions? Is there a wonderful moment when parents can become detached spectators in the lives of their children and shrug, "It's their life", and feel nothing?

When I was in my twenties, I stood in a hospital corridor waiting for doctors to put a few stitches in my son's head. I asked, "When do you stop worrying?" The nurse said, "When they get out of the accident stage." My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my 30s, I sat on a little chair in a classroom and heard how one of my children talked incessantly, disrupted the class, and was headed for a career making license plates. As if to read my mind, a teacher said, "Don't worry, they all go through this stage and then you can sit back, relax and enjoy them." My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.

When I was in my 40s, I spent a lifetime waiting for the phone to ring, the cars to come home, the front door to open. A friend said, "They're trying to find themselves. Don't worry, in a few years, you can stop worrying. They'll be adults." My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing.

By the time I was 50, I was sick and tired of being vulnerable. I was still worrying over my children, but there was a new wrinkle. There was nothing I could do about it. My mother just smiled faintly and said nothing. I continued to anguish over their failures, be tormented by their frustrations and absorbed in their disappointments.

My friends said that when my kids got married I could stop worrying and lead my own life. I wanted to believe that, but I was haunted by my mother's warm smile and her occasional... "You look pale. Are you all right? Call me the minute you get home. Are you depressed about something?"

Can it be that parents are sentenced to a lifetime of worry? Is concern for one another handed down like a torch to blaze the trail of human frailties and the fears of the unknown? Is concern a curse or is it a virtue that elevates us to the highest form of life?

One of my children became quite irritable recently, saying to me, "Where were you? I've been calling all day, and no one answered. I was worried."

I smiled a warm smile. The torch has been passed.

PASS THIS ALONG TO OTHER PARENTS ( ... also to your children. That's the fun part!)

The boys are on holidays at the moment...it has been fun...will post some photo's soon xxx

2007-06-29T20:48:00.000+10:00

Thought I'd better update to show that I am still here....slack bugger I have been!!!

Not alot has been happening in my corner of the world. I am still going to (and enjoying) the gym - my personal trainer is giving me a new program starting Monday - it will be a nice change - I hope!!

Work has been crazy...this week working six out of seven days - it has been hard getting things done...but the money helps:)

Food has been up and down, some days I am really good then others it just goes to shit....I really need to focus more. This week I have started sucking on a mint while at work which has helped with snacking.

... at the moment weight is still around the same number...so no complaints there!!

This week, thanks to Beckie I have found google reader (http://www.google.com/reader/) This is going to make things so much easier for me, as it takes so long to get through blogs, and in a few weeks when I will be doing office work at school I will have acess to all my fav sites. So this weekend I hope to finish adding all the blogs I read!!

So now I'd better go clean out our bedroom - we are getting a new bedroom suite delivered tommorrow...can't wait!!

Hope u all have a great weekend xxx

2007-06-18T11:31:00.000+10:00

I thought it was about time I updated...I have been getting online every couple of days to read emails and get stuck reading blogs, which means I have not had the chance to update myself:)

So what's ben happening...nothing really interesting!
I had a bad case of the flu the last few weeks which really knocked me around...and I actually really missed going to the gym ...shock... Vic was also sick for a few days, Jason stayed home from school a few days as well.

This week I am feeling much better, so I have been back to the gym and I have to admit I am really enjoying going - although it does make life so much busier...I do love having that time 'for me' Its going to be interesting to see if I can fit any in during the school holidays:)

Last week I was feeling very disheartened about things - I have been going to the gym for 6 weeks now and am still sitting at the same weight!! (92 at the moment) I know I did gain when I went to Tassie (way to much alcohol was consumed over there), so I have lost something - but I thought that going from hardly any exercise from working out 4 times a week that there would be a difference...I do feel alot fitter though...for example when I started I could only do a minute or two on the cross trainer on level 1, now I do ten minutes a time on level 4!! So I'm really happy about that:)
One thing I really need to focus on at the moment is my snacking (especially at work!) I am finding I am hungrier after working out:)

Well I must go get ready for work - hope everything is going well for everyone xxx

2007-06-08T14:31:00.000+10:00

I'm home sick today - and have been told by hubby not to lift a finger all day:)
So I thought I would finally post some photo's of the boys taken while we were in Tassie:)
This is at the airport - behind is the plane we came home on.

While in Tassie the boys slept together on a fold out couch - I couldn't resist taking this:)

This was taken up at the lookout at Mount Nelson - Vic has alot of friends in that area.

Introducing the newest member of our family...

2007-06-07T08:12:00.000+10:00

Charlotte Amara Lynch was born on Sunday weighing in at 8lb 30z!!
She is my sister Amanda's 3rd baby:) She looks so much like her older sister!

Luke having a cuddle

Jason with his new cousin:)

2007-06-01T21:54:00.000+10:00

Sorry about the extended absence of late; at the moment we are getting gas pipes put in our street and the lovely guys cut our phone line which left us with no phone or internet for a whole week!!

I will do a proper update soon...caramelkitkats last message kinda shocked me, as I didn't know...I actually saw the guy at work a few days ago!!

2007-05-22T10:46:00.000+10:00

We are home!!

We ended up having to stay longer as there were a few family conferences with various doctors and aged care workers about what is going on, we are looking at putting him in a home, or at the least a daycare centre...they have to do assessments so it will be a long process. They have taken his licence away, which didn't go down to well:)

I have missed the gym so much...over there I didn't get any exercise done, couldn't make my own meals...and drank way to much alcohol...when I did a workout this morning I felt so unfit, goes to show that I have to do it most days!!

Well I hope you all are going well - will try to get around to read some blogs today!!

2007-05-14T13:49:00.000+10:00

I went through my program at the gym this morning - it was hardish but I felt great afterwards!! I can't wait to do it again tommorrow!!

We are going to Tassie tommorrow night to see Vics Dad.
Our neighbour (who is from Tassie too) went to the hospital to see him on Sunday and he looked terrible (they sent us a pic) , so I've been busy all morning booking flights. The boys and I will come home on thursday afternoon - Vic hasn't booked a return ticket yet, he may stay on a little longer:)

2007-05-13T08:58:00.000+10:00

Happy Mothers Day!!

I hope all the Mothers out there are

being spoilt by the kids today!!

2007-05-11T21:27:00.000+10:00

I am happy to report another loss this week, just a little 300g - at least it's a loss eh!

I had my fitness assessment on Wednesday - and it wasn't as scary as I thought it would be, I got measured, and had to do some flexability tests - reaching for my toes...conclusion made that I am not very flexible, the fact that I have some soreness in my back aparently is limiting me!
I also had to do a test that measured my heart rate and how much oxygen I use when riding the bike...which wasn't to bad....but my score was pretty low.
On Monday I will get my personal program which will be exciting!
So until then I am free to go in and 'play' on the gym equipment.

Today I went to the gym this morning and did some bike, treadmill and the rower before I went to work...and I have already planned to be at the gym at 8am tommorrow to have another session before I start work tommorrow - I was worried that I would be to tired at work after a session, but I was fine today... and I didn't snack at work either, because I didn't want to undo the work I did!!

We have had a bit of bad news the last few days - Vic's Dad has not been well lately, both mentally and physically, we have been getting calls from Vic's sister about his odd behaviour, and he had been sleeping more than usual and not eating much, the tried to get him looked at, but he refused to go!! - he had a fall at home yesterday and was sent to hospital - they are doing tests and things don't look real flash. Vic's grandmaother on his fathers side had alzhiemers for a long time before she died, and his fathers sister was put in a home a few years ago for the same reason... so at the moment its jsut a case of waiting to see what happens....Vic is going to try to get some time off to get over to Tassie to see him soon.

Will write more soon xxx

2007-05-07T22:55:00.000+10:00

Thankyou for all your kind thoughts for Malcolm, he is doing really well at the moment, still having daily dressings ~the nurses that come to visit are very happy with his progress.

The boys had a great day yesterday ~ they both got to play football during half time at the MGC - during the Melbourne and Port Adelaide match.

Here are the boys before the game...we had great close seats.

Here is Luke when he came off the field...he was so excited!! Luke played in a grid match

Here is Jason and Vic waiting to go on the field - Jason played a little league match (thats why he got a melb top) and Vic was a umpire!

Before the game we stopped and had lunch near Captain Cooks Cottage!

I am still really enjoying water aerobics - I even got up early on saturday morning to do a 8am class (really shocked hubby too!)

I lost another kilo this week too - I am finally in a healthy frame of mind, which really helps keep me motivated!

For the first time ever I have joined a gym. There is a mothers day special going on at the moment which was a really great deal that also includes water aerobics - which is a bargain if I only do water...and I get to use the gym and do other classes as well.

I have a fitness assessment on Wednesday afternoon which I am both nervous and excited about:)

2007-04-29T12:59:00.000+10:00

It's been a while since I wrote a proper post:)

I'm happy to say that things are going really well now!!
Malcolm was sent home from hospital on Friday... he is staying at Dads for a while, is is so glad to finally be home!! He has a nurse come in daily to dress his wounds, and is on a fair bit of medication, but he is much brighter being able to do his own thing:)

As things have been settling down lately, I have tried to eat more healthy, and have been drinking heaps of water. This week I started going to water aerobics with a friend, and I am really enjoying it....I was even rewarded with a kilo loss this week:) I am hoping to follow suit again next week. Now that I have worked out what a huge stress eater I am going to have to be really careful.

Sorry I haven't been around to other blogs lately...will get a few read this afternoon:)

2007-04-17T13:07:00.000+10:00

I could do with one of those...lol

2007-04-09T22:09:00.000+10:00

Hope you had a great Easter, whatever you got up to during the long weekend:)

My brother is still in hospital – so most of the time was spent keeping him company. He has been having surgery (on Good Friday and Easter Sunday) to cut out infected tissue and to drain fluid. After the last one he has a machine connected (VAC) to draw out the oxygen to help the healing process – I took a look at the Dr’s notes and he is to be hooked up to this machine until the 25th of this month, so it’s looking like it will be quite a while till he will be able to come home – since after all this, he will need skin grafts to fix the holes (3 at the moment) in his leg.

I have been reading the Peaches and Cream website forum which was started by the lovely Brooke… a subject which I have found really interesting after reading Brooke’s, Kate’s and Lisa Jane’s blogs…it’s not a diet, just being more aware of your eating…not depriving yourself.
At the moment with life being so busy, any eating plans, and exercise plans have completely been abandoned, between having the boys on holidays, working and spending time with Malcolm I have not had much time for anything else. To top it off my washing machine broke down the other day, so now I have to add trips to the Laundromat as well. I am so tired. I have found the last few weeks I have eaten chocolate everyday in the evenings, as a comfort, the kids and hubby have gone to bed so I can have a bit of ‘Me’ time!

I have been listening to my body the last day or so ~ even though my eating has been less than ideal, last night I was watching TV when everyone else was sleeping ( I have become a night owl of late) and I knew there was left over Easter chocolate in the pantry, I was so close to get up and eat it, but I said to myself, I don’t really feel like choc, I just want it because it is there – it felt great not to eat it for no reason, I think this IE makes a lot of sense. I am not drinking water religiously like before – but now I find I am craving water (like I used to crave soft drink) –which is great!
So…even though I am not focusing on losing weight at the moment…at least I am still learning something…Thank you Brooke for starting the forum:)

Had a sneak peek on the scales and it wasn’t great – I’m not going to stress about it now. I believe stressing over negative things doesn’t help. I am doing my best to find positives in everything, as being negative just brings me down, and make me feel depressed, and I really hate feeling that wayJ

I have been listening to others around me and am really noticing the negativity in my family, being around all that makes me feel blah and I compensate by eating.
NO MORE!!!
Now my main priority is Vic and my boys – I don’t want my boys to grow up in the negative environment that I did.

One thing that had really worried me lately is that when Jason is bored, he goes straight to the pantry for a snack….did I teach him this??
How can I break this cycle?? I don’t want to teach my boys unhealthy eating habits!!

Well this has gotten a bit long…you deserve a medal if anyone is still reading:)
Have a great week!!

2007-04-06T12:17:00.000+10:00

I hope you all have a safe and Happy Easter!!

Wedding Photo's

2007-04-02T22:43:00.000+10:00

Here are a few wedding photo's;
Between working and being in the hospital, I have not had alot of time to get online:) This is Dad and his new wife

Here is a family shot Jennifer, Dad, Colleen, Brendan, me and Amanda -

This is my little sister Shannen - she was flower girl:)

These are two of my uncles (Dads brothers) listening to the football during the ceremony.

Here is Brendans little boy, Tyson with Jason's sunnies on.

My two boys...

Vic and myself

The cake

The wedding went well...wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. I spent most of the time catching up with relies that I have not ween for a while.

The day had many of us teary eyed...Malcolm was told at the last minute that he was not to be allowed to get out of hospital for the day, in fact they booked him in for surgery on the same afternoon to cut out the infection, and to drain fluid from the leg. I saw him sunday when the nurse was changing the dressing, and they have cut a hole the size of a golf ball, so he will need a skin graft to cover it once it heals.

I just got a phone call, they are putting him back into surgery tommorrow afternoon to drain some more fluid...and now he may be stuck in there for at least two weeks...he is so upset that this is dragging on, and he is in heaps of pain, not to mention he is so bored in there!!

....this blog is about healthy eating eh...well I have not really thought about it since Mal went into hospital, I have not cooked anything either...at the moment I am just concentrating on Mal...everything else can just wait!!

Well I must get to bed, as it will be another long day tommorrow:)

2007-03-30T21:40:00.001+10:00

Sorry posts are getting far between each other:)

Not alot has changed this week - Malcolm is still in hospital, which is where I have been spending aot of time...he has staph at the moment which is a worry. I went with him yesterday when they did a scan and they said that the infection is in the tissue, and not in the bone, which is supposed to be good news. We are hoping they will let him out for the day tommorrow for Dads wedding.

In other news, My baby(Jason) came home from camp this afternoon, it was so quiet here without him, especially not having him home for his birthday...he opened the rest of his presents, then went to cubs, which were celebrating thier 1st birthday ... so its been party time around here. He came back with a very croaky voice which I guess means he had a great time:)

Well hope you are all having a great weekend...I wish I was coming over to tassie to see you Nanette, instead of going to the wedding...it would be heaps more fun!!

Will update soon with some wedding pics!!

2007-03-27T12:08:00.000+10:00

Unfortunately my weekend was a bit more eventful than I had planned...My brother was admitted to Sunshine Hospital on Sunday morning due to an infection from a gash on his leg (from the accident) he can hardly move and is in alot of pain..he was supposed to only be in overnight...but they have kept him in, and we don't know when he will be sent home...Dad has been stressed (he has even called me a few times *shock*) as he is getting married on Saturday...his girlfriend is pissed that Mal is taking up most of Dads time ( she is a bitch!)...so things have been stressful.
I don't know if I have mentioned before, Malcolm is my youngest brother, when I finished high school, before I found a job I used to look after him, while mum slept (nightshift worker) so I was the one who took him to kinder ect...so we have always been really close!

In other news my baby left for camp this morning, in tears because he is worried about not being home for his birthday, the teachers have arranged a party - I bet by now he is having heaps of fun and not even missing us...lol

Even though eating hasn't been the best...nothing great when stuck in a hospital:)
I have not let any more twiggy sticks touch my lips...and I have done 3 shifts!!

2007-03-24T09:22:00.000+11:00

Thought I'd better do an update to let you know that I am still here:)
It's been a good week, I did a few extra shift which is great moneywise.

My weigh in meeting was great this week, one of the girls did an exercise class, she set it up like a little circuit, and we did warm ups aswell as a game of tunnelball...it was great fun, the most exercise that I have done in a long time...my arms are still sore from the pushups...lol. We are planning on having this session once a month, it has really helped me think about moving more:)
Next week we are doing a session on setting goals, which should be another great morning.

Now that things are falling into place home/work now I can start concentrating on getting serious about losing this weight...which has really been on the back burner lately:(
Yesterday was a terrible day eating wise - when I was home I grazed the whole time...I wasn't even really hungry, I know it was boredom eating...I will have to be more aware of that!
But its a new day and I am starting fresh!!
My goal for today is not to snack at work...I have been eating way to many twiggy sticks lately:)

Well must go get ready for work..Hope you all have a great weekend, most of mine will be getting Jason all packed for camp, he is going to the grampians for a week!

2007-03-18T18:14:00.000+11:00

Just a quick post to show you what I did this week:)

I had been meaning to get it done for ages...it feels so different:)

There was heaps of hair on the floor when it was finished...the hairdresser is going to send it off so it can be mde into a wig!

Looking at these photo's my back looks so wide....it is going to look much smaller real soon!!

It's been another busy week...getting heaps of hours at work which is great!

Things are more organised which is keeping me sane:)

It was Vic's birthday yesterday, so we went out for dinner and a movie on Friday night while the boys were at a cub sleepover...it was so great to have time together with no kids (doesn't happen very often!)

Had a bit of bad news last week, my little brother was the victim of an hit and run, he is ok, though a bit sore...and has had a bad headache ever since....it was very scary thinking that we could have lost him.

2007-03-11T10:09:00.000+11:00

Thankyou for all your positive comments:)
Sorry it's taken a while to update - things have still been busy!

* At 5.43 this morning our Great Nephew (makes me feel old...lol)
Ravi was born in Hobart weighing 7lb 2oz after a very long labour - still waiting to see the photo's, but have been told he has lots of black hair!

* Work has been going well - I have been called in for extra shifts - which is great moneywise...but not much 'me' time happening...lol
I am so glad that I did quit that other job!!

* Weighed in this week at 89 kilo's
I have decided that I am only going to weigh in monthly from now on as I find relying on a 'number' week to week is just to stressful..since if I have a badish week I tend to eat crap because I am depressed about it!
So I will still go to my weekly group, as I do need the support I get from all the lovely ladies - but I have asked them to keep my book, and when I weigh in they won't tell me the number till the start of each month:)

*This week I brought three notebooks and a little diary that fits into my handbag.
One book is to write the family meal plans - aswell as a weekly shopping list
One is to write my food diary in, as I have been really slack lately, and the other one is for bills owing and other bits and pieces, for example things Jason needs for camp, birthday presents ect
So now there is no excuse for me not being organised!!!

Well i have a ton of housework to get done...so must get to it - Hope you all are having a great long weekend!!

Overwhelmed....

2007-03-04T16:17:00.000+11:00

The last few weeks have been very stressfull. I am normally an extreamly organised person - and due to working two jobs, any trace of organisation has gone flying out the window...which stresses me out big time. Plus I have felt so guilty not being able to spend time with hubby and the kids, aswell as having the housework in order...how do you full time working mums do it???

So... as of yesterday I have quit the coffee shop!!! I felt so bad telling the owner, but it was just getting to much, even though I enjoyed working there...I really need to put my family first:) She was quite shitty about it...but theres not much I can do about it:)
I am still working in the deli, four days a week (they gave me an extra friday shift), but the hours are more family friendly.
So now I will have more time to follow the meal plans I have been writing up each week (and not using!) drinking more water and getting back to moving my arse!
I have not weighed in for 3 weeks now (as I was working on weigh in days) but I know that I have gained...coming home late the last thing on my mind was exercising or cooking dinner - so we opted for quick and easy *cringe*. Hubby even 'helped' by getting takeaway if I wasn't home yet.

I am sick of this tired feeling, having a constant headache, from eating crap and just feeling so fat!!
I am at the highest weight that I have been at for years..which is really depressing!!

I need to make more of an effort....because I really want to lose weight, I am not happy at my current weight, and I am the only one who can change this situation!!

Sorry for the ramble....hope you are all having a great weekend:)

2007-02-25T18:39:00.000+11:00

Here are the photo's I was trying to post yesterday!
Sorry about the cropping - these are scanned and I couldn't get the edges off!

Yesterday was our 6th Wedding anniversary....
And here are my boys...
I love this photo - I have it enlarged in our loungeroom

2007-02-24T18:54:00.000+11:00

Sorry that I have been missing for a while...things have been very busy, and I have not had alot of time to get onto the computer!
I have been doing training for the job in the deli (which I am really enjoying) and I have been doing a bit of work in Kyenton in a chocolate and coffee shop...I'm not really sure if I will continue with this one - the deli has given me an extra shift, which I want to take...but it may mean I won't be as available for the shop as much...and the hours are longer which means I need to use childcare...so a few decisions to make!!
I am going to do a coffee course through them (5th March), so I will see what happens after that!!

I have a few pics to upload, so will leave it there:)

2007-02-12T18:38:00.000+11:00

This weeks task is to spring clean the house
here is todays effort, below is a before of the fridge....

and these are the after photo's:)

Invested!

2007-02-11T11:39:00.000+11:00

On Friday night the boys got 'Invested' at cubs~they were so excited for most of the week waiting!! During the ceremony they had their white scarves replaced with the blue and yellow~they also recieved many badges that I now have to sew on, so there goes most of my spare time this week:)
I had my first day in the Deli on Friday, and it was good ~ I still have a lot to learn, but I feel comfortable with what I am doing and the others are really nice. The job is part-time which suits with the kids, and gets me out of the house:)

Hope alll are having a great weekend:)

Weigh in

2007-02-08T14:13:00.000+11:00

****Edit ~ I just got a new job!!!
(working in the deli of my local supermarket)
They rang me the other day to ask if I was interested~as they are interviewing people,
I said 'hell yeah!!!' Went to interview and they gave it to me on the spot!!! I start tommorrow...very excited!!
~as I am still waiting for the resturant to reopen after the flooding they had before christmas!
Isn't it weird when you are busting your ass looking...not much happens...when I'm not really looking...they chase me...lol

Last weeks weight: 87.2 kilo's
This weeks weight: 87 kilo's
A loss of: .2 kilo
Left to lose: 22 kilo's

Am very happy with this weeks result...after a big loss last week, as well as a few indulgences over the weekend!

I signed up to calorie king this week and I just love it...have been going through the forums and found many new recipes and I have a plan all worked out for this week...have just come home from shopping without choc and other snacks that I just don't need:)

Hope all are having a great week:) xxx

"Bloggest Loser"

2007-02-06T12:34:00.000+11:00

I am really excited about doing this...having the show on has really helped with motivation already - and the little tasks that Beckie is giving us are great too:)

I have made up a new blog which has my horrible photo's (that Beckie dared us to do) as well as my measurements ect... I hated posting these pic's - but I know at the end I will be glad to show them off to see how far I have come...I am going to do this!!!
The photo's are very embarrassing to be out there for all to see...I don't really know if anyone in my real life knows/or reads this blog - so if you would like to see the other blog just send me an email and I will let you in:)

Freedom....

2007-02-05T10:41:00.000+11:00

We are really enjoying having our place back to ourselves - Ray left on an early flight yesterday morning...and the tension left with him:)
We had a lovely, lazy day just the four of us and it was bliss:)
We went out for a long lunch - even though I ate indulgently...I didn't feel guilty, it was just one meal - I ate what I wanted, I enjoyed every mouthful, and I stopped when I was full...I find that in the past, when we go out to eat I don't want to waste anything on the plate...I paid for it dammit...lol
I felt so much better leaving something on the plate because I had, had enough...a great feeling - not having to roll out the door...lol

I have been looking at http://www.blackmores.com.au/Weightloss and it is a very interesting site - I signed up for the 8 week motivation email. They also have some workouts you can put on your ipod and meal plans...which I have found some nice recipes...and lots of other stuff...its worth a peek..and its free...you just register to log in and thats it!!
So go have a look!!!

Beckie has started a bloggest loser challenge to run while the TV show is on - which is a great idea - she has made up a new blog about it http://beckschallenge.blogspot.com go and have a look!!

Well I'm off to do my yogalates dvd...I have really missed not being able to exercise in the comfort of my own loungeroom...lol
Hope you all have a great day:)

2007-02-02T10:34:00.000+11:00

Hi All ;0)
It's been a pretty quiet morning so far...I was up chatting till 2am with Beckie, Ckk, Crankybee and Jac...very interesting conversations...still laughing ...especially when I read Becks post this morning :0P

Vic's dad is keeping his distance today...which I am not complaining about...still only the one shower...man, he smells like an unwashed cave!!

I had a go at him yesterday afternoon, he brought a whole heap of stuff over to give to the boys, which they have displayed in their rooms (and have become attached to), when I got home from weigh in yesterday - he had taken the stuff out of the rooms and put it back in his case...the boys came home and asked where the stuff was and he made some lame excuse and put it back cause he felt bad (about being caught out!) I was so mad I grabbed the stuff and put it all back on his case and told him that its not right to give things to children then take it away...if that is how he feels he can shove it all up his ass!!!

I really shocked him as I am normally a quiet person, who never loses my temper...he knows how pissed off I am and has been really quiet ever since...it's probably the first time I have been remotely mean to him!!

I was still fuming when Vic got home....he said to me this morning that its the first time he has seen me ready to kill...I think I scared him a bit too, wondering what happened to his easy going, never standing up to someone who has made me angry, Wife ...lol

So it was really nice to have a huge laugh with the gals, last night....I certainly slept well:)

On a brighter note;
1. Aspire to be Barbie - the bitch has everything.
2. If the shoe fits - buy one in every colour.
3. Take life with a pinch of salt... a wedge of lime, and a shot of tequila.
4. In need of a support group? - Cocktail hour with the girls!
5. Go on the 30 day diet. (I'm on it and so far I've lost 15 days).
6. When life gets you down - just put on your big girl panties and deal with it.
7. Let your greatest fear be that there is no PMS and this is just my personality.
8. I know I'm in my own little world, but it's ok. They know me here.
9. Lead me not into temptation, I can find it myself.
10. Don't get your knickers in a knot, it solves nothing; and makes you walk funny.
11. When life gives you lemons in 2007 - turn it into lemonade then mix it with vodka.
12. Stay true, caring and loyal to your friends - when it comes to enemies remind yourself of 'opposite day' from primary school
13. Remember every good looking, sweet, single male is someone else's ex boyfriend!
14. Enjoy this 2007!
15. Now smile and send to any girl wasting time at work, suffering from a hangover, suffering from a hangover at work or that might need a reason to smile!!!

Weigh In

2007-02-01T21:36:00.000+11:00

Last weeks weight: 88 kilo's
This weeks weight: 87.2 kilo's
A loss of: 1.2 kilo's
Left to lose: 22.2 kilo's

2007-01-31T17:36:00.000+11:00

There is a light at the end of the tunnel.....

I took Ray to book a plane ticket yesterday, so he will be leaving early (5am) Sunday morning.
As yet he has only had the one shower (I may have to hose him down...lol) I keep giving little remarks like when we got home from shopping it was hot so I changed my shirt - he said it has gotten warm today, so I said "yeah thats why I had to change my shirt" HINT, HINT but he just let it slide.... only 4 sleeps to go...

Today I was going through some of the boys baby stuff - Our niece is due to have a boy in March - so I could send some things back home with Ray, (I did buy some new things for her too) In luke's baby box I found my pregnancy book, and the last appointment, which was in the morning of the day he was born. My weight was 88.6, I weigh about that now....omg...I weigh the same as I did at 9 months pregnant!!!

I have been reading a book "I can make you slim" Paul McKenna and I am really enjoying it, it has a motivational cd as well which after listening I feel really enthusiastic about everything!!
His plan is to follow 4 rules:

When you are hungry, EAT
EAT WHAT YOU WANT, not what you think you should
Eat CONSCIOUSLY and enjoy every mouthful
When you think you are full, STOP eating

How simple is that??

I am finding that not depriving myself...that I am not craving certain things...which means it won't lead to a binge when I buy chocolate or anything else perceived as a 'naughty' food, which has been happening way to much of late.

I have some motivation to keep myself on track...my Dad is getting remarried on 31st March, and there will be alot of relies that I have not seen since Nan died, 2 years ago - when I was weighing around 85 . So I want to be looking great...and heaven forbid, I may even buy a dress for the first time in years!! The last dress I wore was my wedding dress...isn't that sad!

Weigh in tommorrow, will post results soon xx

2007-01-27T12:12:00.000+11:00

"They say tommorrow never comes. That may be so, but it never goes, either. It is always there, hanging on the horizon, beckoning us forward or, sometimes, causing us to shrink back in dismay. They say we should live for today. Are they mad? Do they not know about tommorrow? Or maybe, they know something that we don't know. Tommorrow will always be part of the future. What's happening today is precious. Enjoy it while you have it within your grasp to enjoy."
I don't normally read the daily stars in the paper - we don't get the paper that often, but with Ray being here he buys it everyday -
That was my horscope for yesterday, and it is so true...I am always putting things off until I lose weight...and I am missing out on so much!! I need to enjoy the here and now!!
After reading that and thinking WOW I was interested on what todays would be...
" 'Waiter, waiter, there's a fly in my soup'. "Well don't wave it about sir, everyone else in the restaurant will want one.' Sadly, this dreadful old joke sums up the kind of advice that too many people in my profesion feel entitled to dole out. 'Make the most of your situation', they glibly advise'Count your blessings.' I cannot quite bring myself to offer you any such platitudes this weekend. If something irks you feel fully free to gripe and moan. If you complain loudly enough, you may just get things changed"

Ray had his first shower since being here, this morning ...that makes 6 days no shower...eeewww...although he put all his dirty clothes back on - even though I washed the shirt he came over in and it is sitting in his room in plain view....maybe I should start complaining loudly...lol

Hope all is having a great weekend

2007-01-25T13:39:00.000+11:00

There was no weigh in this morning because of the public holiday tommorrow - but I took a peek on my home scales and I am .6 down from last week which is great ... a huge boost to my confidence seeing the numbers finally go down!

Things are going OK with FIL being here. He does repeat himself alot, but I am learning to zone out a bit...lol
He has made his mind up about the situation in Tassie (not that they know, and they wont be happy) so the whingeing has been minimal here, compared to other times:)
One thing that has really grossed me out is he has the only clothes he has is the ones he arrived in plus another pair of dress pants and a jumper.... and he is staying until around the 4th of Feb!!
It was his birthday yesterday (turning 78) so we brought him a polo shirt :)
Unfortunetly he is not very fond of the shower - last time he only had 2 in the couple of weeks he stayed, so we are interested to see if he is going to brake his record this time:P

Eating has been pretty good the last few days - the exception being birthday cake last night and a few timtam's today - the new ones mudcake flavor...yum. My throat has been a little scratchy the last few days so I have been drinking plenty of water:)

Home everyone has a great day off tommorrow!!

2007-01-22T13:38:00.000+11:00

Sorry that I have been MIA for the last week or so ~ the end of last week I was busy getting the boys things organised for camp, aswell as preparing the house for when my father in law arrives from tasmania to stay for a while.
It was so different not having both the boys here over the weekend - normally if they both go to stay somewhere overnight it is because Vic and I are going out. It was so quiet I found myself grazing all day - both days...shocking!!
I am also a little stressed about FIL coming for 2 reasons, there is alot of conflict with the relies over in Tassie (they all live in the same house) so when he comes over that is all he talks about - which is a bit upsetting for Vic as we are a long way away to do anything.
The other reason is that with the weight that I have gained I don't really feel comfortable in most of my clothes - it has been easy sitting around in daggy trackies and tops that show the rolls because no one is seeing me - not the case with a house guest.
We went out on Friday to do some shopping (for camp and FIL birthaday present) and we called in to see Lisa ( http://lisabplus3.blogspot.com/) and her 3 girls ~ it was the first time since I have worn jeans for ages - and they are getting tight!
One good thing about FIL being here is that I won't be able to snack on junk, since he will be around me all day:)
Well the boys are starting to fight ~ hope everyone is having a great day:)

2007-01-17T11:00:00.000+11:00

I recieved this in an email...

You are a star. Own It!
Our Lady of Weight Loss is 100% sure that you are a star. Feel confident in your stardom. Flaunt it, baby! It's not only okay to own it - it's the right thing to do!
*Let your uniqueness show.
*Do what pleases you.
*Honor your core values.
*Make requests from others; never play the victim.
Do different things and do things differently.
Risk more. Shine on!
Are you a ball of hot gas? Burn bright! A star is a hot ball of gas, which burns for millions of years. A star is born in a “stellar nursery” where gases and dust particles are drawn together though the forces of gravity. The heat produced by stars is what makes them shine. Their temperatures reach hundreds of thousands degrees Celsius.
What makes you shine?

At the moment I can't think of anything - my mind has gone blank!!!!
Would love to hear what you guys come up with!

2007-01-16T20:55:00.000+11:00

Thought I'd better post to let you know I am still here:)
Not alot has been happening, Vic is still at home so routine is flying out the window, although eating has been better than it was - exercise has been non existent as it has been so hot...though I have done a few sessions of yogalates, I really should be doing it everyday:)
once Vic is back at work I will aim to do it every morning!
Well I leave it there for nowand go join the others outside, as it is so hot upstairs!
Hope all are having a great week!!

2007-01-13T11:27:00.000+11:00

2007-01-12T09:31:00.001+11:00

Reading Becks 'My body is a temple' entry a few days ago has really had me thinking about the way I look after "my temple" there is a new ad that has been on lately for special K about the same sort of thing - about wemon putting themselves last on their personal lists, something that I am very guilty of!! I have always put Vic and the boys first ~and it might just be about time to be a little "selfish" for a change!
So this afternoon while the boys were playing in the pool, I left Vic out there to look after them and came in and soaked my poor sore feet in my footspa(that hasn't seen the light of day in ages!) with Bodyshop milk bath, then I gave them a scrub with my bodyshop lavender salt scrub - thanks Beckie for the idea:) At the moment my feet are feeling so soft and lovely.
I think I really need to take time out like this at least once a week. It's amazing how the mood lifts with a bit of pampering. it can do nothing but good because " If mummy is happy - the whole house is happy" - I love that quote!!

2007-01-11T20:06:00.000+11:00

ARE YOU A BITCH?
Some friends were sitting at the bar talking about their professions.
The first guy says,
"I'm a Y.U.P.P.I.E., you know... Young, Urban, Professional, Peaceful, Intelligent, Ecologist"
The second guy says
"I'm a D.I.N.K., you know... Double Income, No Kids."
The third guy says,
"I'm a R.U.B ., you know...Rich, Urban, Biker."
They turn to the woman and ask her, "What are you?'"
She replies: "I'm a W.I.FE., you know...Wash, Iron, Fetch, Etc."
A second gal answers their question before they even ask it,
"B.I.T.C.H ."
What exactly is a BITCH?!? They ask in unison.
"Babe In Total Control of Herself."
So ladies, next time somebody calls you a "Bitch" SMILE.
And say "ThankYou!!"

2007-01-10T14:15:00.000+11:00

Things are going well - eating has been good although alcohol consumption leaves alot to be desired!! Vic has one more week at home...I can't wait to be back into a normal routine!

ABC of me;
A is for age: 32
B is for Beer: I don't like the taste of beer
C is for Career: Hospitality
D is for my Dog's Name: Sarge
E is for Essential Item I Use Everyday: Eyebrow pencil.
F is for Favourite T.V. Show: At the moment Grey's Anatomy
G is for Favorite Game: Scrabble
H is for Hometown: Lancefield
I is for Instruments I Play: Piano
J is for Favourite Juice: Pineapple
K is for Whose Butt I'd Like To Kick: My Sister in Law
L is for the Last Place I Ate Out: Salton Pepper - lovely food
M is for Marriage: Once so far. Coming up to 6 years on 24 Feb!
N is for my Name: Leighanne,Lee, Mum, bub
O is for Overnight Hospital Stays: Twice when I had the boys 7days, and 5, a few overnights for gallstone attacks, 2 nights for gallstone op, 7 days for back spasms
P is for People I was With Today: My boys, my husband
Q is for Quote: "What doesn't kill me makes me stronger."
R is for Biggest Regret: Not doing further study when I was younger
S is for Sport: Walking
T is for Time I Woke Up Today: 10 am - it is holidays!
U is for Current Underwear: Black Cotton
V is for Vegetable You Love: Capsicum - love them raw or cooked
W is for Worst Habit: Not speaking up, being shy
X is for X-rays I Have Had: Teeth, Back, Chest (gallstones)
Y is for Yummy Food You Ate Today: Homemade lasagne
Z is for Zodiac: Libra, on the cusp of virgo

2007-01-05T10:44:00.000+11:00

Nanette wanted me to post the Yucky photo so here is the one Jason took on New Years day that made me really cringe...unfortunetly the camera doesn't lie...

This one is a closer photo taken the other day...

My weigh in for the 2nd Jan was 89 kilo's. I have done all my measurements, and have them written in a note book that I am also tracking my food and exercise (so I won't lose them) My 1st official weigh in will be on the 18th Jan....my last weigh in was 84 kilo's, so my goal until then is to get as close to 84 as I possibly can. I have been pretty good the last few days, eating well and doing a little exercise each day...my motivation is back!!!

2007-01-01T22:09:00.000+11:00

Happy New Year - The Holiday is over!

We have just come back from spending a few days camping with some friends in Yea, no mobile signal, no electricity, so relaxing, exactly what I needed for a recharge:)

We stayed on a friends property, 75 acres, he is a cattle farmer (who lives in the city), and his land has a part of the goulburn river running through. The only building on the whole property is an old tin shack that they all call 'the hut'

Here is the view of the river...so lucky to have water to swim in!

The Hut!

It was a pretty quiet New Years....a bit of rain which was lovely!!

All the kids were getting impatient by 11.30pm - they pepped up for the countdown and lit some sparklers...we were all fast asleep by 12.30!!

Things were ok eatingwise considering I had no imput with any cooking or food prep - One of the other guys is a bully with the bbq...won't let any female near it...won't even let us do dishes...a real sweetie!! I ate bbq meat with salad most meals. I did drink a fair amount of scotch - with diet coke...this will be the last time for a while:)

But we are home now and since this is the last time we are going away, it is time for me to get back into a rountine!

I have a horrible photo that Jason took while we were away that has really made me cringe...I will look at it as a reminder of why I am doing this!!

In the morning I will weigh myself for my official start weight ( I couldn't weigh in this morning)

and also do some measurements to keep me motivated:)

I hope evryone on holidays are having a great time - and that those at work are not working too hard!! Will check up on you all in the morning!

Goodnight:)

2006-12-30T09:33:00.000+11:00

Feeling like*&^*!!
I weighed myself this morning and was horrified to see the number blinking back at me 88.7 ... I have been feeling depressed about my weight going up lately ...and stupidly have just been in denial....but now it is so close to 90 which really scares me - especially since I was down to 79.5 in October....what am I doing to myself???
I really need to get my shit together, starting TODAY - If I wait till after New Years, staying on the same track I will be close to a hundred in the new year....I can't let that happen!!!
Gosh, my clothes are getting tight, I don't want to have to buy a biiger shirt for work when I go back on the 16th - I am supposed to be getting into the smaller one!!
The last week I have been so good in the mornings...then everything goes to shit during the afternoon.

I need to exercise...can't remember the last time I did anything regular....sorry Sarge!
I need to drink water instead of alcohol...I find I eat more when I am drinking!
I need to get back to planning my meals and tracking what I eat...have not done that in ages.
I need to get my motivation back!!

So starting right now I am going to try to make a more concentrated effort...wish me luck!!

2006-12-28T23:10:00.000+11:00

I Believe:

I believe the sun will rise tomorrow,
I believe the sun will go down every night,
I believe there is something out there,
I believe I can achieve my dreams,
I believe everything does happen for a reason,
I believe I do not understand why some things happen,
I believe I can change the way I feel,
I believe I am a wonderful human being,
I believe I am beautiful,
I believe I am worth loving,
I believe in miracles,
I believe I can achieve anything I put my mind to,
I believe I can be loved, and give love,
I believe by sharing my problems the world will be a better place,
I believe no matter how bad my life is, someone has it worse,
I can overcome anything because I believe I can, and will.

By: Carol Baulch.

2006-12-27T20:59:00.000+11:00

Here is my brother Brendan, his partner Renee and baby Tyson

This is me holding Tyson - he is such a good baby, he slept in my arms for most of the afternoon

2006-12-27T13:28:00.000+11:00

I hope everyone had a great christmas!!
here is Jason and Luke in front of the tree:)

I have more photo's - but blogger is being a real pain!

We had lunch at my sisters place ~ it was nice to catch up with family~ it is not often that we are in the same place all together:) Over the last few weeks I have eaten way to much and drunk way to much wine ~ I took a sneek peek at the scales and it was so bad I cannot write the number!! So at the moment I am in "damage control" - I am hoping I can get the numbers down for my first weigh in on the 14th Jan!

2006-12-19T21:46:00.000+11:00

Hi guys - I have sorted my modem problem...yay!!
have heaps to say, but not sure where to start, so i will leave you with this while I go catch up on some blog reading...

Santa goes on the Atkins diet;
Cookies and milk out; eggs, beef, chicken, cheese in
North Pole Santa Claus announced today in his annual pre-holiday press conference that he has begun the popular Atkins diet, and is asking for help from families around the globe. Atkins dieters are allowed to consume large amounts of high-fat foods such as eggs, beef, and cheese. Carbohydrates, which are found in pasta, breads, and fruits, and sweets, are not allowed.
Mr. Claus said that he decided to start the diet after he could not fit into the trousers he wore to deliver gifts last year.
"I couldn't bring myself to buy new trousers, and I haven't had a good body image lately. I had to do something, and quick", said Claus. "Having a belly like a bowl full of jelly is one thing, but being a complete fat ass is another. I mean, even my jolly little toe has fat on it." According to inside sources, Mrs. Claus may have also played a part in his decision to lose weight.
An elf, who wished to remain anonymous, said that Mrs. Claus "is getting more and more involved" with day-to-day operations, especially as Christmas nears. "She pretty much runs the toy factory, and she is making all the elves work a lot of overtime. Plus, she made us all sign waivers saying we wouldn't sue if we got injured on the job. Now, Santa suddenly goes on the Atkins diet? I guarantee that is her doing. She's a real pain in the ass. We've all started calling her 'Yoko'".
Santa says that his goal is to lose twenty pounds before he delivers gifts on Christmas Eve, leaving him plump, but not grossly obese. And, says Claus, he needs everyone's help to stick to his diet.
"I am asking the families of the world to leave snacks for me that are low in carbohydrates. Unfortunately, this means that the traditional snack of cookies and milk is not acceptable. Good alternatives are scrambled eggs, cheese, beef, or chicken."
Experts agree that a thinner Claus may be a healthier Claus, but think that the new snack requests may spoil some of the fun and tradition of Christmas.
"I think it's great that Santa wants to lose a few pounds", says holiday expert Michelle Bosler. "But a great Christmas traditions is being altered. Leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus dates back hundreds of years. I don't think families will enjoy scrambling eggs or broiling a T-bone for Santa quite as much. And these low carbohydrate snacks are much more expensive than a couple of store bought cookies."
Despite the criticism, Claus vows to stick to his Atkins diet. "I'm going to do this. I've tried other diets, and I just can't stick to them. I mean, have you ever had a SlimFast shake? Tastes like liquefied wood."
North Pole spokesperson Sandy Ashton said that if families are uncomfortable leaving eggs or meat as a snack, they could opt to leave no snack at all.
"We'd rather Santa not have a snack than eat foods that are high in carbohydrates. For families who don't wish to leave a low-carb snack, we ask that they leave a note of encouragement for Santa, or some bourbon, which is a low-carbohydrate beverage. Dieting is difficult, and he needs support if he is going to succeed." - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

2006-12-11T10:40:00.000+11:00

I am still here ... things are pretty hectic at the moment!!
It has been so hot here lately, and smoky from all the fires that are burning around the state.

I weighed in on thursday and lost 100g - which is ok, my goal for the next few weeks is to try and maintain - It has been hard with numerous lunches and dinners...and I have not exercised much in this hot weather. Last year(and the year before that!) over christmas I gained 3 kilo's - so to lose a little or stay the same will be the best outcome for me....then I will start anew in the new year!!

My youngest brother Malcolm, came home with me on thursday and spent a few days with us which was nice...the boys had a free day on friday - I got the boys santa photo done and we all went and finished our christmas shopping!
Then we went and visited my new nephew (my other brother Brendan, first baby) which was born on 2nd dec...he is so tiny, was only 5 pound 6 oz - I didn't have my camera on me, so will have to make sure I have it next time....feeling very clucky...lol

I have finally sent out the christmas cards...I feel really bad this year as I normally make the cards. but with working I just have not had the time...so just shop brought ones this year!
Yesterday the boys and I spent most of the day making chocolates to give as gifts... at school they have kris kringle - but it has to be something made - not brought, I will make up a box for Vic to take to work to share in the luch room...and take the rest for the family on christmas day!
The boys had fun squishing candy canes to put in the choc, and mixing white and milk choc...made heaps of mess though!
Well have heaps to do...hope everyone had a great weekend:)

2006-12-06T14:30:00.001+11:00

2006-12-05T17:07:00.000+11:00

A carrot, an egg, and a cup of coffee...You will never look at a cup of coffee the same way again.

A young woman went to her mother and told her about her life and how things were so hard for her.
She did not know how she was going to make it and wanted to give up.
She was tired of fighting and struggling.It seemed as one problem was solved, a new one arose.
Her mother took her to the kitchen. She filled three pots with water and placed each on a high fire.Soon the pots came to boil. In the first she placed carrots, in the second she placed eggs, and in the last she placed ground coffee beans.
She let them sit and boil; without saying a word.
In about twenty minutes she turned off the burners.
She fished the carrots out and placed them in a bowl. She pulled the eggs out and placed them in a bowl. Then she ladled the coffee out and placed it in a bowl.

Turning to her daughter, she asked, "Tell me what you see."
"Carrots, eggs, and coffee," she replied.
Her mother brought her closer and asked her to feel the carrots. She did and noted that they were soft.The mother then asked the daughter to take an egg and break it. After pulling off the shell, she observed the hard boiled egg. Finally, the mother asked the daughter to sip the coffee. The daughter smiled as she tasted its rich aroma.
The daughter then asked, "What does it mean, mother?"

Her mother explained that each of these objects had faced the same adversity: boiling water. Each reacted differently.
The carrot went in strong, hard, and unrelenting. However, after being subjected to the boiling water, it softened and became weak.
The egg had been fragile. Its thin outer shell had protected its liquid interior, but after sitting through the boiling water, its inside became hardened.
The ground coffee beans were unique, however. After they were in the boiling water, they had changed the water.
"Which are you?" she asked her daughter.
"When adversity knocks on your door, how do you respond?
Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean?
"Think of this: Which am I? Am I the carrot that seems strong, but with pain and adversity do I wilt and become soft and lose my strength? Am I the egg that starts with a malleable heart, but changes with the heat? Did I have a fluid spirit, but after a death, a breakup, a financial hardship or some other trial, have I become hardened and stiff? Does my shell look the same, but on the inside am I bitter and tough with a stiff spirit and hardened heart? Or am I like the coffee bean? The bean actually changes the hot water, the very circumstance that brings the pain. When the water gets hot, it releases the fragrance and flavor. If you are like the bean, when things are at their worst, you get better and change the situation around you. When the hour is the darkest and trials are their greatest, do you elevate yourself to another level? How do you handle adversity? Are you a carrot, an egg or a coffee bean? May you have enough happiness to make you sweet, enough trials to make you strong, enough sorrow to keep you human and enough hope to make you happy. The happiest of people don't necessarily have the best of everything; they just make the most of everything that comes along their way. The brightest future will always be based on a forgotten past; you can't go forward in life until you let go of your past failures and heartaches. When you were born, you were crying and everyone around you was smiling. Live your life so at the end, you're the one who is smiling and everyone around you is crying. You might want to send this message to those people who mean something to you
(I JUST DID); to those who have touched your life in one way or another; to those who make you smile when you really need it; to those who make you see the brighter side of things when you are really down; to those whose friendship you appreciate; to those who are so meaningful in your life.

2006-12-04T16:42:00.000+11:00

Bloggers Christmas dinner

Here are some of the photo's from my camera!
Phil, Jadey and Linda!

With Jadey!

......with Beckie!!

Phil, myself and Linda!

What a beautiful, friendly bunch of ladies!!

It was great to finally meet up with everyone...definetly worth the long drive!!

- and the butterflies were gone almost instantly!!

I just can't get over how tall everyone was...I really feel like a dwarf...lol

It was a shame that I didn't get to spend alot of time talking with you all, so I am really really looking forward to the next one:)

2006-12-01T10:34:00.000+11:00

Here is a pic of our christmas tree, which we put up last night!

Weighed in yesterday and lost .9 - it is great to finally have a loss after being out of wack for the last few weeks!

I am hoping that over the next few weeks, which includes many lunches/dinners/drinkies is to at least maintain my weight!
At work I have told the girls in the kitchen not to let me put my hand into the m&m's jar - and it has really made a difference this week...we also have been very busy with christmas functions, so I am not standing around 'snacking' - lots of walking around ( I must really get myself a pedometer!!)

I am hoping that I don't get off work too late to meet some of you guy's on sat night... hopefully I can get off by 10.30 to meet you all around 11.30....I am a bit nervous...but can't wait!!

2006-11-28T11:17:00.000+11:00

Just a quick update
- things are going great, a sneek peek at the scales is showing a downwards trend!!!

Here is a Meme - I got from Kate

1) Are your parents married or divorced?
Divorced - Dad is going on to his 3rd marriage - I am the only child from the first marriage

2) Are you a vegetarian?
Most definately not.

3) Do you believe in Heaven?
I'd like to believe that there is something after we go, not quite sure what though

4)Have you ever come close to dying?
No

5) What jewelery do you wear 24/7?
Hoop earrings and my wedding ring

6) Favourite time of day?
Relaxing with Hubby once the kids have gone to bed! Or that quiet time at home when I get back from work

7) Do you eat the stems of broccoli?
Yes, cut up in a stirfry

8) Do you wear makeup?
I wear it to work, and when I go out - but If I am staying at home I don't bother

9) Ever have plastic surgery?
No - would love to get my arms, and tummy skin done when I lose this weight

10) Do you color your hair?
Yes - I have since I was 16

11) What do you wear to bed?
depends of the weather - pj pants with a short sleeve pj top, or singlet - when its
really hot - nothing

12) Have you ever done anything illegal?
Speeding, and buying alcohol for my underage brother

13) Can you roll your tongue?
Yes

14) Do You tweeze your eyebrows?
No - way to painful!!

15) What kind of sneakers?
Some from Kmart - not sure of the brand

16) Do you believe in Abortions?
I believe in a person's right to chose, but don't believe in them for birth control purposes

17) What is your Hair color?
Dark brown at the moment, has been a range of colours over the years

18) Future child's name?
I like Laura and Lily

19) Do you snore?
Only when I have a cold

20) If you could go anywhere in the world where would it be?
Hubby wants to visit Graceland - so I would take him there - then we could go to a tropical Island somewhere.

21) Do you sleep with stuffed animals?
Nah, just Hubby!!

22) If you won the lottery, what would you do first?
Fix up all the things I want to on the house - buy new cars, then take Vic to Graceland

23) Gold or silver? I actually like both

24) Hamburger or hot dog?
Hamburger - with the lot and pineapple...yum

25) If you could only eat one food for the rest of your life, what would it be?
Chocolate!!

26) City, beach or country?
Beach, but not close to a city!

27) What was the last thing you touched?
My mouse, and keyboard

28) Where did you eat last?
At the kitchen bench - we have stools at the bench

29) When's the last time you cried?
After hearing the Belinda Emment song that came out the day of her funeral

30) Do you read blogs?
Way too many

31) Would you ever go out dressed like the opposite sex?
Maybe at a dress up party

32) Ever been involved with the police?
Only for Breath Tests and speeding, normal driving stuff.

33) What's your favourite shampoo, conditioner and soap?
I use Pantene shampoo and conditioner and dove soap

34) Do you talk in your sleep?
Vic says I sometimes do - but he can't understand it!

35) Ocean or pool?
Pool.

38) Window seat or aisle?
Doesn't really bother me

39) Ever met anyone famous?
Jules Lund - came to film at jason's Karate,
Debbie Burns - from early young talent time - lives in lancefield, her daughter is in lukes class, so I see her nearly every day

40) Do you feel that you've had a truly successful life?
Not yet, but I am working on it!

41) Do you twirl your spaghetti or cut it?
Twirl.

42) Ricki Lake or Oprah Winfrey?
Oprah, her shows are always great!!

43) Basketball or Football?
Afl family here..

44) How long do your showers last?
Probably longer than they should - probably would be quicker if the kids stopped coming in to ask things:)

45) Automatic or do you drive a stick?
Both - my car is auto, Vic's ute is manual - though I prefer my car:)

46) Cake or ice cream?
Icecream!

47) Are you self-conscious?
Very!

48) Have you ever drank so much you threw up?
Yes... a few times. I have learn't not to mix drinks

49) Have you ever given money to a beggar?
Yes.

50) Have you been in love?
Yes - still am!

51) Where do you wish you were?
here is quite fine at the moment:)

52) Are you wearing socks?
No, bare feet at the moment

53) Have you ever ridden in an ambulance?
yes just once!

54) Can you tango?
I did learn at high school, for my deb - but not sure if I could do it now

55) Last gift you received?
earrings from Jason

56) Last sport you played?
Indoor cricket , at school

57) Things you spend a lot of money on?
mostly things for the boys

58) Where do you live?
Lancefield - in the middle of Victoria

59) Where were you born?
Royal Womans Hospital, Melb

60) Last wedding attended?
A friends - 15th Oct this year

63) Most hated food(s)?
seafood, raw carrots, jelly

64) What's your least fav?
seafood

65) Can you sing?
Have not tried in public

66) Last person you instant messaged?
Lisa - to see if she was availble for lunch

67) Last place you went on holiday?
Phillip Island

68) Favourite regular drink?
Water, sometimes diet coke

69) Tag 3 friends:
Anyone who wants to do it

70) Current Song?
anything by pink

2006-11-24T10:33:00.000+11:00

Sorry for the lack of posts - we had a stormy night during the week and my modem blew up, which has been a real pain!!

Life is really busy at the moment - we have had a school concert, and our school turns 130 this year and there has been heaps of work getting the celebration day ready (which is this saturday) And the last few days have been so hot!!

I have been very motivated this week so I am revved up to lose these extra kilo's that I have put on in the last few weeks - unfortunately I weighed in at 85.3 yesterday....so I really have to stay focussed!!

Well I have a whole lot of things to do today - will not leave it this long to post again!!

2006-11-16T09:42:00.000+11:00

Thankyou for your lovely comments
I am feeling much better, the iron tablets have really helped~although I have had to up my fibre in the last few days...lol
I did my grocery shopping yesterday so I am all stocked with healthy foods - I even packed school snacks for the boys in daily portions to make it easier in the mornings, and to stop me snacking. There is also not one scrape of chocolate in the house which will really help.
It feels great to be organised again, I feel much more in control:)
I did go for a walk on monday and tuesday, but due to the rain all day (and night) I haven't been able to get out, but I can't complain though, we really need the rain. It actually snowed here for about an hour - I have posted pics on my other blog...as blogger is being a pain!
http://lovinglife.vox.com This blog is the only one my family(except Jason) knows about - it is mainly what the kids are up to!
Well I better go have a shower to rinse out the dye in my hair - hope you are all going great!!

2006-11-13T10:54:00.000+11:00

After a lovely recharge weekend, I have been very bad this week. I still have been really tired and have used it as an excuse to be lazy, not only with exercise - but with watching what I am eating. I have a fridge full of fresh healthy food, but instead have been eating crap because I could not be bothered cooking, which I know is just an excuse since it takes about the same time to whip up something healthy (and I have heaps of ready meals in the freezer!!)
The last few days I have been feeling down in the dumps, been feeling bloated and had a constant headache - I realise this is all due to my 'new'eating habits!
-So I have given myself a stern talking to - I really need to get my butt into gear. Last time I went off the rails I gained 10 kilo's back, I am 3 kilo's up at the moment - so I need to get back in focus before the damage becomes huge!!
I went and brought some iron tablets this morning - which will hopefully help!
I started with a healthy breakfast....so I am ready to get back into the swing of things!!!

2006-11-07T21:39:00.000+11:00

It has been a bit of a long weekend here - no work or school on both Monday or today...and it has been great!! We have been in holiday mode, just spending time doing nothing at all - I have read a few trashy novels while drinking wine and sitting in the sun...and it has really charged the batteries!!
Not sure what it has done for the waistline though...but I am not going to stress about it. I think lately I have been stressing about it to much, and when the scale starts to go up, I compensate by eating more!
So I have decided that I am not going to weigh myself till the end of the challenge - I am not giving up, just not going to let myself be ruled by a number, instead I will concentrate on eating well...I just need to chill about things!

I recieved this in an email today:

What obstacles do you face?

How can you overcome them?

ALWAYS REMEMBER IT’S POSSIBLE!

The more prepared you are the more likely you are to stick to your plan.

If you plan that you will go for a thirty minute walk in the morning and then
a second specific activity in the evening you are more likely to do it.

It would be even better if you are one of those people who makes excuses,
to commit to that time with a family member, friend or workmate. Enlist the help
of others if you need to.

What ever you do plan to be active and burn the fat.

Take a moment to picture yourself at your goal weight.

Take the steps, walk more and move it.

Have a great day.

Which has given me more to think about - I really need to get back into planning, as I find things run much smoother when I do. And exercise has been pretty non-existant too - so I need to plan to get it done!!
Hope you all had a great Cup Day!! -

Congratulations to Hayley on announcing her pregnancy!!!

2006-11-03T14:49:00.000+11:00

The last few days I have been feeling really BLAH... I'm not sure if it has been due to the start of daylight savings, or if I am coming down with something - I just have been so tired lately!
On tuesday morning when I dropped the boys off at school, I came home and went back to bed as I was struggling to stay awake. I thought I would lay down for half an hour or so - but I didn't wake up until one o'clock!!
I had the night off last night, and it was great to get an early night. I have been feeling much brighter today...it's amazing what a proper sleep will do! I got so much things done today that I have been putting off for a while - I even cleaned the fridge out, it is now stocked with good healthy food!!
So I am ready to get back in challenge mode!!

2006-10-30T10:04:00.000+11:00

Sorry I've been missing in action this past week - I haven't gone off the rails or anything like that!
Work has been pretty full on - some 4.30 starts, a few girls are off while they are studing for exams - and another left during the week, which was a shame because we were becoming good friends! This girl was a bit of a bossy bitch to everyone, and made many feel uncomfortable - normally I would just avoid the situation, but I remembered a quote given to me a while ago "Nobody can make you feel inferior with out your permission"
so instead of sticking with the other girls bitching behind her back - I just started talking to her about what she was studing, what is going on in her life ect...and we really got on great - I think she just needed someone to take an interest...so it's a shame she has gone..

I weighed myself at home this morning (for the 10 week challenge) at 81.5 which is a loss of 200g which isn't too bad!
This week I have to make a better effort with my exercise, everything else has been going well. I have not been in the kitchen much at work lately which is great, since I am not tempted to snack - and I have ditched the lattes (I made the excuse that I can't sleep when I get home) and have been having water with lemon slices - I get at least two tall glasses a night, and I have 2 litres of water before I go to work:)
Hope you all are having a great week!!

2006-10-23T18:34:00.000+10:00

Thankyou for all those Birthday Wishes - it was a great day!

We had the local fair in town it was a great day for it - My Hubby's friend gave me a harley ride for my birthday - That is me on the back!!

The boys had a great time on the climbing wall.

We spent most of the day with a group of friends - and it was decided that they were all coming back to our place for a bbq tea. So it turned into a bit of a party - ended up a great night!
Here is a photo of a very sunburnt me - the boys made a cake while I was at work saturday night, and had it stashed at the neighbours house - they were so proud of themselves!!

SO....now the party is over...and the challenge begins (properly)

I weighed in this morning at 81.7 (not to bad after the scotches I consummed last night!)

I also took some measurements, since I am not going to dwell on a number on the scales:

Bust 44.5 inches - Waist 40 inches - Hips 44 inches - Thigh(right) - 23.5

I will compare these when I finish the challenge:)

Well must go get my boys organised, hope you all had great weekends ( I have read blogs today - but my computer was being really slow, so I didn't get to comment)

2006-10-20T13:55:00.000+10:00

"Nurture the relationship you have with your body. Feed it well, treat it like a house you live in. Spring clean it, polish it & decorate it nicely"

2006-10-18T09:57:00.000+10:00

It is ten weeks to christmas and I have joined crankybee in her 8 week challenge:)

This time I am not going to concentrate on losing a certain amount of kilo's - instead my goal is to be able to fit into this shirt (pictured above). I brought this to wear to work, it is the same size as the one I already wear, but it is more fitted. Even though it does fit(just), it is not comfortable to work in - the arms are tightish, and it gapes around the bust and tummy and makes me feel self consious. In 8 weeks I will get another photo taken to see how I went:)

OPERATION RED SHIRT:
How I am going to do it!
1. Chocolate only allowed on my free day(thurs)
2. To do a form of exercise everyday - either walking Sarge, yogalates, weights or a fitness DVD
3. To eat more fresh fruit and vegies
4. Drink at least 2 litres of water everyday.
5. To do my food diary everyday.

2006-10-17T11:00:00.000+10:00

10 Commandments Of Weightloss

1. Thou shalt honor thy health and good spirits above all else.
2. Thou shalt not go on crash diets, therein lieth the way to madness.
3. Thou shalt not clean thy neighbours plate.
4. Thou shalt not eat when thou art miserable, for food is not a medicine unto the soul.
5. Thou shalt not eat when thine eye lusteth, but when thy stomach requireth sustenance.
6. Thou shalt sup chiefly on the fruits of the earth, the grains and vegetables thereof, on the fowl
of the air and the fish of the seven seas, whence donuts cometh not.
7. Thou shall take exercise daily, for why else hast thou sinew and bone, legs and sneakers?
8. Thou shalt be patient but not forgetful.
9. Thou shalt take delight in every good friend and good song, in every good walk and good day,
for to enjoy them more is why these commandments are given unto thee.
10. Thou shalt not knit thy brow if thou transgress a commandment, but forgive thyself, for it
is written, nine out of ten is not bad.

Sorry for the lack of updates - life is very busy at the moment, not to mention Jason crashed the computer - so any spare moment has been getting it back up and running!
I am doing good - will do a proper post soon xx

2006-10-10T23:22:00.000+10:00

I have not wriiten much in the last few days the main reason is that I have been feeling a bit 'blah'... I think most of it is tiredness, and the gain I had last week - even though I wasn't worried about it - it's still in the back of my mind!

I have found it alot harder to be organised with Vic back at work and the boys back at school - many late nights has made me tired (and sometimes grumpy) - thus my eating choices have not been the best. I have still been walking ( even though I spend most of it sneezing....damn hayfever..lol) If I don't go - everytime I am outside Sarge runs to the leash wanting to go - so he makes me feel guilty...lol

Hopefully I will be in a routine soon:) I really need to do more at night when I get home - as I am wide awake...I will try harder this week:)

Sorry about having a bit of a winge ~ I may have a gain again this week - for some reason I was hungry all day, and grazed through, nothing really satisfied!

Some postive news: My sister announced this week that she is expecting her 3rd bubs ( in May) - so exciting!!

I also want to thank Mary for all her positive comments, you are so sweet:) - it is comments like this that is the main reason that I am still plodding along. I believe I would have given up a long time ago if it wasn't for all the support we give each other....Thankyou:)

2006-10-09T13:49:00.000+10:00

$86,400 A Day

Imagine there is a bank which credits your account each morning

with $86,400. Carries over no balance from day to day, allows you

to keep no cash balance, and every morning cancels what ever part of the

amount you failed to use during the day.

What would you do?

Draw out every cent, of course!

Well, everyone has such a bank. It's name is TIME.

Every morning it credits you with 86,400 seconds.

Every night it writes off, as a loss, whatever of this amount you have failed to invest to good purpose. It carries over no balance. It allows no overdraft.

Each day it opens a new account for you.

Each night it burns the records of the day.

If you fail to use the days deposits, the loss is yours

There is no going back. There is no drawing against 'tommorrow'.

You must leave in the present on todays deposits.

Invest it so as to get the utmost health, happiness and success.

The clock is running. Make the most of today.

Seize the day!

2006-10-05T16:10:00.000+10:00

Had a small gain this week - .3 ... bugga!! Now I am back into the 80's!
I am not really down about it though, as I know why I did gain... to many BLT's ( Bites, licks and tastes) at work!
The first week working I seemed to 'get away' with it, but it has came back to bite me...lol
Which means I really need to organise myself better this week:)

So my plan for this week is;
- take sarge for a walk every morning, or in the evening if I am not working.
- take home a salad from work each night for lunch the next day - as it is already prepared I will have no excuse not to eat it!
- No BLT's at work!!!
I am going to keep my mints in my pocket and suck on them, and stick to my water - food doesn't taste too nice after a mint!!
- When I get home I will to a yogaltes workout! When i come home I am not ready to go straight to bed. My new routine is making the kids lunches (so things run smoothly in the mornings) then to do a yogalates workout while I do a load of washing. I did this last night and slept so much better:)

Now I am off to get tea organised and to get ready for work - hope everyone has had a great day!!

2006-10-03T10:51:00.000+10:00

Here is a pic of part of my walking route
I am really enjoying walking at the moment - whenever I come outside with my mp3 player, Sarge knows I am going for a walk and gets so excited - So I can't let him down...can I !
Last night Jason came with me ( he was riding his bike) there was a cow out on the road which was a bit scary...lol
Lately we have been more active as a family which is great:) Sarge has certainly made a huge difference to my life!
Life is just going so well lately - I have a job I am loving ( it helps that there is no money stresses), I feel good, which really boosts my mood! I have found if I am happy Hubby is in a better mood and the kids don't seem to fight, bicker and annoy me - though I am happy they are back at school:)

Things are going well this week - my birthday/being good present to myself arrived yesterday!
I borrowed a Yogalates dvd off a friend a while ago, and have really liked doing it - since I have been losing, I decided to buy the whole set:) I really need to start toning!

Well I better go get some house work done:)

2006-09-30T13:49:00.000+10:00

Here is Luke using the firehose!
Here is Jason in the fire truck!

2006-09-29T08:48:00.000+10:00

I lost .2 yesterday - another little one, but this time it was under 80!!
I weighed in at 79.8. So that is one goal I can cross off my list!!
I was a good girl and got up at 7 this morning and went for a walk (the big block 5.2 km) - mainly since I ate way to much last night *wink*
I should have taken the camera - as I was walking a Kangaroo went bounding past ... Sarge just stared at it!! I am used to seeing cows, sheep and horses but I have not seen a kangaroo that close to town:)

Well must go get ready - we have a friend who is a fireman in melbourne and we are taking the boys down to the station today and he is going to take them for a ride in the fire truck:)

Hope you all have a great weekend:)

2006-09-27T22:50:00.000+10:00

Firstly thankyou for your suggestions about the email I had to send!
I wrote how I enjoyed meeting her, and that it would have been lovely working there....and that I had been to another interview - and was offered the job on the spot...and it fits well with my family committments
(I really liked that, girls)
I said I was sorry for letting her down, but I didn't want to let my new employer down either!
It is sent now - I can stop stressing about it!!

This new picture was taken yesterday wearing the same clothes that I wore when I posted on June 9 - actually it's a different jacket ( a size smaller) I am happy that things around the tummy area are looking heaps better:)

Weigh in tommorrow - not sure how I will go, it has been hard resisting food with hubby home. He wanted spring rolls and chicken munchies for tea...and it was too hard to not try some... and then he brought out the mini mars bars!!

Well only 4 more days, and they are back to work/school and I can get back into a routine!!

Will post my results tommorrow:)

2006-09-25T10:14:00.000+10:00

Remember the interview that I went to a week or so ago, waitressing at a winery? Well I got an email back yesterday and got that job too!!

After spending a sleepless night weighing up what I was going to do;
I have decided that I want to stay with Simply Italian-
*The hours are great - only nights, so I don't have to worry about childcare ect
- the winery is all types of shifts... breakfast, lunches and dinner.
*The travel time is shorter - 20 mins compared to 40 mins
*The job isn't seasonal - winter is a slow time at winery
*I am loving the fast pace of the resturant - there is alot of standing around at winery
*I am really loving the people I am working with

So my problem now is how to I break it gently to the winery ~ she sent me an email to say she will call me on 3rd oct to get me to sign form ect..
I feel that I am letting her down - I hate that!
I would love any suggestions on what I can write in this email, to let them know that I already have a job and that I am really sorry that I can't take on thier job - even though I really liked them and was looking forward to working there ... I really find it hard to get the wording right, I want to sound 'nice' if you know what I mean!!
So please all you creative writers ... HELP !!!

In other news - I recieved the flyer for the christmas bloggers dinner from Hayley - sounds like a great night, being a Saturday I am not sure if I will be working or not ... but I would really love to go!! Although I won't be able to drink - as it is a long drive home:(
Will see what happens when it gets a little closer:)

Hope everyone is having a great Monday - Hubby is home today, so we are going to the bakery for lunch which will be nice ... we are pretty boring people so this is a big thing for us...lol