Today's Spotlight Blog is quite a treat!  We have Pat Barone  as a guest and it is such an honor to have her expert advice today.  You can visit her site Stop Renting Weight Loss and get real solutions to weight loss.   If you are on twitter her ID is @PatBarone   One of the things I love about Pat is she has been there and done it.  She understands how hard it is to lose weight and maintain it.   Not only has she maintained her weight loss but she has made it a mission to help others do the same.  

 

She is definitely one of the nicest people I have met online and always willing to help out and answer questions.  It is women like Pat that give all of us who are still working on it hope.  Thank you so much Pat for sharing your expertise with us today.

 

XO Shannon

 

Please enjoy the following guest post by Pat Barone:

 

  

 

 

 

  Diet Mentality's Affect on Holidays

By Pat Barone, CPCC, PCC, "America's Weight Loss Catalyst"

 

In exactly 3 months, I will celebrate 10 years at my current weight.  After losing over 70 lbs. and diligently taking care of that new weight, I've made my weight loss permanent.  The medical profession defines "permanent weight loss" as weight loss sustained for over 5 years.

 

Those years have reinforced what research studies taught me when I first approached weight loss:

 

 1.  Diets perpetuate certain thought patterns – we are either "on" or "off", "good" or "bad", "with the program" or "banished to the dark side."  We fight eating when true, unmanageable instinct tells us we need food.  It's like fighting a perpetual losing battle.

 

2.  The more diets we try, the more diets fail – they fail because we can't eat the same way forever.  Eventually, we either get tired of the restricted eating style, or our rebellious internal 4-year-old hits the road in search of self-determination.  That may sound like "I'm outa here" or "I'm entering a free food zone for 13 days" or "Gotta have sugar."

 

3.  When we fail at some task, we tend to blame ourselves and attach the "failure label" to ourselves.

 

4.  The longer we diet and yo-yo the number on the scale, the more engrained these beliefs become.

 

5.  Repeated dieting destroys the metabolism.  No matter what your age, ending the diet game now (today!) means better health and a lower weight in the future.  If I had just gotten some great feedback in high school about my size and shape, and stayed that weight, I would have avoided tons of pain, psychological damage, illness, disease, deprivation, and depression.

 

The stringent diets I tried (and I tried them all) did NOTHING for me or my weight.  Diets make us fatter. Plain and simple.  They lower your body's ability to burn fat in the future.

 

So, why talk about "diet mentality" now?

 

Because "diet mentality" can drive us crazy during the holidays.  And, eventually, that destructive 4-year-old appears and throws all good efforts away.

 

Diet mentality infuses the holidays with stress, guilt and useless self-flogging.  It destroys the enjoyment of the season by creating a negative relationship with food and actually forcing us to focus MORE on food.  We may even redefine "enjoyment" as food, definitely not a positive redefinition.

 

Just think about it.  If we'd never encountered a diet, food would just be food.  It wouldn't be reward or emotional soother.  Just food.  Simple energy.

 

Life doesn't start or stop, based on whether we're complying with a diet.  And we deserve love and complete respect, no matter what we ate a minute ago, a month ago, or years ago.  We must first give ourselves love and respect, then others will follow.

 

So, what does diet mentality look like at holiday time?

 

1.  Wild "food" swings:  For a party invitation, we starve beforehand, promise ourselves we'll only have a certain amount of food, throw our promises out the window, overindulge, feel terrible, chastise ourselves, bark at our family members in disgust, become moody and depressed.  Or we follow the supposedly smart diet suggestions and eat something healthy before a party, then resent the fact we don't have room for something unique and yummy once we're at the party.  Or eat it anyway and feel totally stuffed, confused or defeated.

  

 

 

 

 

2.  Excuse Victim:  We use the excuse of "It's the holidays" or "I'll fast tomorrow" or "I'll get right back on the diet after New Year's" to give ourselves free reign at every party, family gathering and celebration for a full three-six weeks.  This leads to a January of regret and depression.

  

 

 

 

 

3.  Body as Garbage Can:  Another diet mentality trap is the excuse of "I only get this treat at Christmas" or "Aunt Ellie makes the best Hanukkah cookies."  In other words, there's a sudden scarcity of food in America! 

 

Do we really think we can't find a cookie in America if and when we want one again?
This diet blunder completely disregards one truth about the body. 

 

If the body isn't hungry, really physically hungry, it doesn't need food and it has no place to put the excess food you eat.  It doesn't need to make energy, or store blood sugar or glycogen.  So it makes fat of it.  That's the bottom line.  Stomach full or body not hungry?  You've just become a highly efficient fat-making machine.

 

There's no such thing as "one more won't hurt" at this point!  We just give ourselves a longer road to travel in releasing the weight later.

 

So, if you really want another treat and you're not hungry, arrange to take it home for later.  You can even freeze many holiday treats and enjoy them in February or March!

 

As I often tell my weight loss clients, "you can waste food or you can waist it – it's a choice.  If you're not hungry, really physically hungry, it's garbage.  The only difference is, when you waist the excess food, you carry your garbage around for everyone to see!"

 

 So, I'm issuing a challenge this holiday season:

 

1.  Live like a human being.  Be kind to yourself and others.  No stuffing your poor body.  No relentless self-punishing inner dialog. 

 

2.  Make your food choices as reasonable and healthy as you possibly can.  Every time you're in charge of a meal, make it the healthiest you can.  There will be many other meals you can't control during this time of year.

 

Don’t eat when you are not physically hungry.  Physical desire isn't reason to eat.  We all want that donut, so what?  Remember, when you eat when you're hungry, at least your body has the ability to convert that food to energy.  Challenge yourself in this area.  It won't hurt and it could be the healthiest habit you ever make!

 

 

Most of all, enjoy the people, places, sights and feelings of the holidays.  All of these things are more important than food.

 

Years from now, you'll look back and remember the sweet time you talked with your grandmother, or the fun you had with your nephew and his new fire truck – you won't remember that 14^th bite of anything.  In terms of importance, it's not even on the radar screen!

 

Pat Barone, CPCC, PCC earned her title "America's Weight Loss Catalyst" by coaching thousands of clients toward permanent weight loss.  Her status as an expert is heightened by her own personal weight loss success.  This discussion came out of the December Catalyst Community call.  Join the catalyst community at Pat's blog, www.stoprentingweightloss.com, and you will receive her free monthly newsletter and exclusive invitations to the Catalyst Community calls every month.

Today's Spotlight Blog is quite a treat!  We have Pat Barone  as a guest and it is such an honor to have her expert advice today.  You can visit her site Stop Renting Weight Loss and get real solutions to weight loss.   If you are on twitter her ID is @PatBarone   One of the things I love about Pat is she has been there and done it.  She understands how hard it is to lose weight and maintain it.   Not only has she maintained her weight loss but she has made it a mission to help others do the same.  

 

She is definitely one of the nicest people I have met online and always willing to help out and answer questions.  It is women like Pat that give all of us who are still working on it hope.  Thank you so much Pat for sharing your expertise with us today.

 

XO Shannon

 

Please enjoy the following guest post by Pat Barone:

 

  

 

 

 

  Diet Mentality's Affect on Holidays

By Pat Barone, CPCC, PCC, "America's Weight Loss Catalyst"

 

In exactly 3 months, I will celebrate 10 years at my current weight.  After losing over 70 lbs. and diligently taking care of that new weight, I've made my weight loss permanent.  The medical profession defines "permanent weight loss" as weight loss sustained for over 5 years.

 

Those years have reinforced what research studies taught me when I first approached weight loss:

 

 1.  Diets perpetuate certain thought patterns – we are either "on" or "off", "good" or "bad", "with the program" or "banished to the dark side."  We fight eating when true, unmanageable instinct tells us we need food.  It's like fighting a perpetual losing battle.

 

2.  The more diets we try, the more diets fail – they fail because we can't eat the same way forever.  Eventually, we either get tired of the restricted eating style, or our rebellious internal 4-year-old hits the road in search of self-determination.  That may sound like "I'm outa here" or "I'm entering a free food zone for 13 days" or "Gotta have sugar."

 

3.  When we fail at some task, we tend to blame ourselves and attach the "failure label" to ourselves.

 

4.  The longer we diet and yo-yo the number on the scale, the more engrained these beliefs become.

 

5.  Repeated dieting destroys the metabolism.  No matter what your age, ending the diet game now (today!) means better health and a lower weight in the future.  If I had just gotten some great feedback in high school about my size and shape, and stayed that weight, I would have avoided tons of pain, psychological damage, illness, disease, deprivation, and depression.

 

The stringent diets I tried (and I tried them all) did NOTHING for me or my weight.  Diets make us fatter. Plain and simple.  They lower your body's ability to burn fat in the future.

 

So, why talk about "diet mentality" now?

 

Because "diet mentality" can drive us crazy during the holidays.  And, eventually, that destructive 4-year-old appears and throws all good efforts away.

 

Diet mentality infuses the holidays with stress, guilt and useless self-flogging.  It destroys the enjoyment of the season by creating a negative relationship with food and actually forcing us to focus MORE on food.  We may even redefine "enjoyment" as food, definitely not a positive redefinition.

 

Just think about it.  If we'd never encountered a diet, food would just be food.  It wouldn't be reward or emotional soother.  Just food.  Simple energy.

 

Life doesn't start or stop, based on whether we're complying with a diet.  And we deserve love and complete respect, no matter what we ate a minute ago, a month ago, or years ago.  We must first give ourselves love and respect, then others will follow.

 

So, what does diet mentality look like at holiday time?

 

1.  Wild "food" swings:  For a party invitation, we starve beforehand, promise ourselves we'll only have a certain amount of food, throw our promises out the window, overindulge, feel terrible, chastise ourselves, bark at our family members in disgust, become moody and depressed.  Or we follow the supposedly smart diet suggestions and eat something healthy before a party, then resent the fact we don't have room for something unique and yummy once we're at the party.  Or eat it anyway and feel totally stuffed, confused or defeated.

  

 

 

 

 

2.  Excuse Victim:  We use the excuse of "It's the holidays" or "I'll fast tomorrow" or "I'll get right back on the diet after New Year's" to give ourselves free reign at every party, family gathering and celebration for a full three-six weeks.  This leads to a January of regret and depression.

  

 

 

 

 

3.  Body as Garbage Can:  Another diet mentality trap is the excuse of "I only get this treat at Christmas" or "Aunt Ellie makes the best Hanukkah cookies."  In other words, there's a sudden scarcity of food in America! 

 

Do we really think we can't find a cookie in America if and when we want one again?
This diet blunder completely disregards one truth about the body. 

 

If the body isn't hungry, really physically hungry, it doesn't need food and it has no place to put the excess food you eat.  It doesn't need to make energy, or store blood sugar or glycogen.  So it makes fat of it.  That's the bottom line.  Stomach full or body not hungry?  You've just become a highly efficient fat-making machine.

 

There's no such thing as "one more won't hurt" at this point!  We just give ourselves a longer road to travel in releasing the weight later.

 

So, if you really want another treat and you're not hungry, arrange to take it home for later.  You can even freeze many holiday treats and enjoy them in February or March!

 

As I often tell my weight loss clients, "you can waste food or you can waist it – it's a choice.  If you're not hungry, really physically hungry, it's garbage.  The only difference is, when you waist the excess food, you carry your garbage around for everyone to see!"

 

 So, I'm issuing a challenge this holiday season:

 

1.  Live like a human being.  Be kind to yourself and others.  No stuffing your poor body.  No relentless self-punishing inner dialog. 

 

2.  Make your food choices as reasonable and healthy as you possibly can.  Every time you're in charge of a meal, make it the healthiest you can.  There will be many other meals you can't control during this time of year.

 

Don’t eat when you are not physically hungry.  Physical desire isn't reason to eat.  We all want that donut, so what?  Remember, when you eat when you're hungry, at least your body has the ability to convert that food to energy.  Challenge yourself in this area.  It won't hurt and it could be the healthiest habit you ever make!

 

 

Most of all, enjoy the people, places, sights and feelings of the holidays.  All of these things are more important than food.

 

Years from now, you'll look back and remember the sweet time you talked with your grandmother, or the fun you had with your nephew and his new fire truck – you won't remember that 14^th bite of anything.  In terms of importance, it's not even on the radar screen!

 

Pat Barone, CPCC, PCC earned her title "America's Weight Loss Catalyst" by coaching thousands of clients toward permanent weight loss.  Her status as an expert is heightened by her own personal weight loss success.  This discussion came out of the December Catalyst Community call.  Join the catalyst community at Pat's blog, www.stoprentingweightloss.com, and you will receive her free monthly newsletter and exclusive invitations to the Catalyst Community calls every month.

For the past little while I have wanted to update my About Shannon page.  As I have started to change it has made me think about many things.  I have wondered exactly who I am and what I stand for.  Theses are things that are not really easy to get serious about, for me.  I have noticed that it is hard to get deep into yourself and share who you really are with others but I am working on it.  So I finally updated my page after much thought and TONS of inspiration to "get real".  I hope this help you to get to know me better and I would love it if you would leave the link to your about me page in the comments so I can get to know you as well.

 

Here is my new About Shannon page:

 

Today I am updating this page. My vision has changed since I started my weight-loss journey and I had no idea what a process it would all be. I have learned that I have to find my inner strength to be able to move ahead and I have to do that on my own first and then allow others to help me. It has taken me finding out who I am to be able to share myself with you. This blog and the success of others have helped me along the way, and I am now just beginning!

 

So who am I…

 
I am strong when I need to be and understand that sometimes I am weak.

 

I have dreams that I know will be reality if I follow my heart and believe in myself.

 

I have found courage when I thought I had none and more love than I thought was possible.

 

I have always known that I have purpose and am in the process of finding it.

 

I represent every woman who has struggled with weight, self confidence, and wanting more.

 

I am a Mother sister, wife, daughter and a friend.

 

I am Shannon, a strong woman who believes I can do anything I set my mind to and along the way I hope to inspire those who choose to follow my journey.

 



  

 

Winners of Cook Yourself Thin Faster Cook books

Congratulations to Georgia Mist and Bart Henry you have both won a copy of Cook Yourself Thin Faster!  Both of you please email me your address so we can get your prize shipped to you.  fabfatties@aol.com

 

I want to thank mylifetime.com for this giveaway.  The recipes are wonderful and I am so excited to get my copy of Cook Yourself Thin Faster!

 

 

Winners of Cook Yourself Thin Faster Cook books

Congratulations to Georgia Mist and Bart Henry you have both won a copy of Cook Yourself Thin Faster!  Both of you please email me your address so we can get your prize shipped to you.  fabfatties@aol.com

 

I want to thank mylifetime.com for this giveaway.  The recipes are wonderful and I am so excited to get my copy of Cook Yourself Thin Faster!

 

 

I am Brave, Strong and I Believe in myself.

 

 

So today is the day... My long (7 day) awaited update post.  This past week has been exhausting, energizing, emotional and I am ecstatic! LOL  I know but the e's just kinda happened so I had to stick with them.

 

In the past 7 days I have weight trained 6 days, taken 2 spin classes, 1 day of cardio on the elliptical and became a true weight watchers lover.  I have been P-E-R-F-E-C-T yes that is perfect!  There has not been one mess up or day off.  So you can only imagine what went through my mind when I got on the scale and I only lost 2 FREAKIN' pounds!!  (It did not help that the day before I was down 4 pounds.)  I was certain I would have lost 20-50.  (Just kidding but I did expect more than 2.) 

 

I did what anyone in my situation would do... I cried.  Then I called my Mom told her how disappointed I was and got a big hug from Mr. Fabulous.  I also told Heath how bummed out I was and he gave me all of his trainer advice.  When you are in this state there is no consoling.  You can tell me how much muscle I am building, how 2 pounds is awesome and how it will all come together but it does not fix it at the moment. 

 

Then this happened...

 

We were traveling this weekend so I bought a book.  Believe it, be it by Ali Vincent, the first female Biggest Loser.  Now I do not know Ali in person but reading her story felt like I wrote it.  (I am sure many women feel the same.)  Our stories are so similar that it kinda freaks me out a little.  The difference is that she has already gotten "there" I am still on my way to "there".  I read this quote from Ali-

 

"Okay, Ali," I said to myself.  "Here's the opportunity to be the woman you know is inside of you."

 

Something about her words made me realize that my opportunity is here, right now...

 

I am Strong Enough

 

I have waited far to long to do this and I AM READY to find myself.

 

I am Worth It

 

And... I will not give up.

 

This week I have-

 

Pushed myself harder than I thought I could.

 

Found the belief I had lost along the way.

 

Gave back to myself.

 

Had more support than I could ever ask for. (Thank YOU!)

 

Most of all... I have realized this is the last time for me, finally.  I AM going to do this, I know it in my heart, to the very being of who I am.

 

Week two is off to a great start and I am doing it all over again, as I will the following week, and the weeks after that.  I want to leave you with my favorite quote ever.  I use it often and think applies to many aspects of my life.

 

“Promise me you'll always remember:

 

You're braver than you believe,

 

and stronger than you seem,

 

and smarter than you think.

 

Christopher Robin to Pooh”

 

First week of changes down and I am still alive, YES!  I will be posting about my week and progress tomorrow evening.  It has been interesting believe me.  The thing I am learning is that I am strong enough to do whatever I set my mind to.  That is awesome. 

Let's get started on today's Scramble and Ramble!!

 



  

Fit Bloggin- I am so excited to be going!  Thanks to Mr. Fabulous being so nice I get to meet more of you in person.  Now that is motivation!!  It is in March so if you want to go HERE is the information.

 

Spotlight Blog- Did you see that Trish from I am Succeeding is the Spotlight Blog of the week?  She is A-M-A-Z-I-N-G!

 

Meet Christine- I met a new friend Christine with an awesome blog Cunning Mom she has been on a weight loss journey and is almost at a goal.  I am so excited for her!  She has some great ideas and really cute kids :) Make sure to check her blog out and tell her hello.

 

Friends in the news- 

 

Michelle-  from Eating Journey  has started and international movement with Exposed.  Exposed was covered in ITALY!  She has inspired thousands with her idea of appreciating our bodies rather than despising them.  Congratulations and thank you Michelle for making a difference! 

 

Jen- A fabulous success story!  Jen the Prior Fat Girl shared her story on AOL's thats fit site and it is really inspiring, way to go Jen.  It is stories like Jen's that make me know I can do this!

 

Still time to enter and WIN-  We have 2 giveaways going on right now. 

 

The first is the Cook Yourself  Thin Faster cook books.  2 of you will win a copy right as they come out!  All you have to do is go HERE and leave a comment on why you like to cook.  Winners will be chose by a drawing and announced on Tuesday December 15th. 

 

The second- Help us choose a new slogan for our blog.  The first of the year we will be updating things a little around here.  One of the things we want to change is the saying "Given a cape and tiara I could save myself."  We need one that is more fitting.  Please submit your idea in 1 sentence either by commenting or emailing us at fabfatties@aol.com  If I choose your saying then you will win an awesome prize!  Winner to be chosen by December 20th.  You can go HERE for more information.

 

That's another Scramble and Ramble wrap!

 

 

 

 

While the holiday season is often the most difficult time of year to eat lighter and healthier, you can always start your day right with healthy breakfast options like Apple Mini Muffins and Orange Surprise.  All of this week’s Cook Yourself Thin recipes are available at my lifetime recipes and they are perfect to help you keep on track!

 

Check out the Cook Yourself Thin site to win a copy of “Cook Yourself Thin FASTER”(giveaway) or try to win a copy at The Fabulous Fatties! To enter:

 

Just leave a comment on why you love to cook!  Easy enough, and if you share this post on facebook or twitter let me know, you will get extra entries for it. Two lucky readers will win a copy of the new book!  Winners will be announced on Tuesday December 15th.

 

 

Apple Mini Muffins

Makes 1 dozen muffins

Calories per muffin: 103

 

1 cup all-purpose flour

1 teaspoon baking powder

1/2 teaspoon baking soda

1/4 teaspoon apple pie spice or ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 tablespoons packed brown sugar

2 tablespoons apple juice

1 large egg

1 small Golden Delicious apple, peeled, cored and diced

1/4 cup walnuts, toasted and chopped

 

1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line 12 mini muffin cups with paper liners.

 

2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, spice and salt. In another bowl, whisk together oil, sugar, juice and egg. Add oil mixture to the flour mixture, stirring just until combined, then stir in the apple. Divide the batter among the muffin cups and top each with the walnuts.

 

3. Bake until a toothpick inserted into the center of a muffin comes out clean, about 15 minutes. Allow to cool slightly in pan before removing muffins to cooling rack.

 

Orange Surprise

Serves 6
Calories per serving: 238

 

6 oranges
2 cups vanilla nonfat frozen yogurt
6 ginger wafers, finely crushed
2 cups orange sorbet, slightly softened

 
1. Cut off the top 1/3 of the orange, zest the tops only; set aside zest and discard the tops. Using a paring knife, remove all of the fruit and pulp from the inside of the 6 oranges, and set aside. Squeeze the juice into a measuring cup. Place the orange shells on a plate. If they do not sit straight, use a paring knife to trim the bottom flat without making a hole.

2. Transfer the yogurt to a medium-sized bowl, and place in the microwave for 10 seconds, or leave out until slightly softened. Pour the orange juice and reserved zest into the yogurt, and stir until combined.

3. Scoop one scoop of vanilla nonfat yogurt inside each orange. Evenly divide the crushed ginger wafers on top of the yogurt. Top the ginger wafers with a scoop of sorbet. Using a spoon or small spatula, smooth the top of the sorbet to resemble a whole orange, and press gently down on cookie. Do the same with the remaining oranges.

4. Serve immediately, or cover with plastic wrap and freeze for later use.

 

Note: if you freeze for at least 20 minutes, the oranges will be frosty and pretty.

My favorite time of the week!  Today's Spotlight Blog is I am succeeding.  This blog belongs to Trish a.k.a. as @IamSucceeding on twitter.

 

I really feel like Trish is a dear friend.  Her blog is full of inspiration and fabulous recipes, but even more than that, it is full of heart.  She is the a prime example of how to live your life filled with kindness, love and hope.  It makes my day first thing in the morning to see her smiling face on twitter encouraging others and checking in on everyone.  What an example she has been to me, never giving up and always looking at the bright side.  I just love her to pieces!  She is the perfect person to spotlight today.

 

XO Shannon

 

Enjoy the following guest post from Trish.

 

First I want to thank Shannon for allowing me the pleasure to guest post. I am truly honored and excited to be here!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where am I now?

 

How far have I come?

 

I was looking at one of our photo books from the 2006-2007 school year and had an "awe" moment when my family all asked at the same time…. who the person in the picture was. It was ME! It had been taken July 4th 2006! I was struggling and going through a time of trying to look better by coloring my hair, YUK! Anyway this was a great eye opening moment for me. I feel really good at what I have accomplished so far and need to remind myself I have made changes, my choices have gotten better and I now am committed to a lifestyle change, not a diet. In short…I AM Succeeding!

 

It seems when you ask someone who has finally taken the weight off they had been struggling with for so many years, the response is:" it was finally my time", well now is my time and I feel great! I still get those times where I feel like throwing in the towel, I am sure do to the imperfect state we are all in I will always feel that way from time to time. So it is good to remind myself of where I had been, where I am now and where I am going.
I am baby stepping my way to a thinner, healthier, happier me, and I am determined to enjoy myself on this journey. No matter how long it takes I will reach my goal and I will be the better for it.

 

This leads to these thoughts…

 

A friend once told me success breeds success and she is so right. When we are succeeding it is so much easier to move forward to continue on our journeys. It is when we somehow slip up and boom, that is when we feel like a failure.

 

But ask yourself...

 

                      Am I a true failure?

 

Thomas Edison is probably one of my favorite people of invention, he was such a positive person, some of my favorite quotes were coined by him...
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
"If I find 10,000 ways something won't work, I haven't failed. I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward. "

 

So each slip up, we need to remind ourselves that all we have done is found another way that will not work.

 

Trish

My favorite time of the week!  Today's Spotlight Blog is I am succeeding.  This blog belongs to Trish a.k.a. as @IamSucceeding on twitter.

 

I really feel like Trish is a dear friend.  Her blog is full of inspiration and fabulous recipes, but even more than that, it is full of heart.  She is the a prime example of how to live your life filled with kindness, love and hope.  It makes my day first thing in the morning to see her smiling face on twitter encouraging others and checking in on everyone.  What an example she has been to me, never giving up and always looking at the bright side.  I just love her to pieces!  She is the perfect person to spotlight today.

 

XO Shannon

 

Enjoy the following guest post from Trish.

 

First I want to thank Shannon for allowing me the pleasure to guest post. I am truly honored and excited to be here!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Where am I now?

 

How far have I come?

 

I was looking at one of our photo books from the 2006-2007 school year and had an "awe" moment when my family all asked at the same time…. who the person in the picture was. It was ME! It had been taken July 4th 2006! I was struggling and going through a time of trying to look better by coloring my hair, YUK! Anyway this was a great eye opening moment for me. I feel really good at what I have accomplished so far and need to remind myself I have made changes, my choices have gotten better and I now am committed to a lifestyle change, not a diet. In short…I AM Succeeding!

 

It seems when you ask someone who has finally taken the weight off they had been struggling with for so many years, the response is:" it was finally my time", well now is my time and I feel great! I still get those times where I feel like throwing in the towel, I am sure do to the imperfect state we are all in I will always feel that way from time to time. So it is good to remind myself of where I had been, where I am now and where I am going.
I am baby stepping my way to a thinner, healthier, happier me, and I am determined to enjoy myself on this journey. No matter how long it takes I will reach my goal and I will be the better for it.

 

This leads to these thoughts…

 

A friend once told me success breeds success and she is so right. When we are succeeding it is so much easier to move forward to continue on our journeys. It is when we somehow slip up and boom, that is when we feel like a failure.

 

But ask yourself...

 

                      Am I a true failure?

 

Thomas Edison is probably one of my favorite people of invention, he was such a positive person, some of my favorite quotes were coined by him...
"Many of life's failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up."
"I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work."
"If I find 10,000 ways something won't work, I haven't failed. I am not discouraged, because every wrong attempt discarded is another step forward. "

 

So each slip up, we need to remind ourselves that all we have done is found another way that will not work.

 

Trish

 

We need your help Fabulous Friends!  We will be updating our blog header and a few things at the first of the year.  One of the things that I want to change is the saying "Given a cape and tiara I could save myself"  It's not that I do not like it.  Actually I think it fits us well but with the direction this blog is going I would like the saying to be more suitable.

 

From the very start we have been asked what we will do when we lose the weight and cannot really be refered to as "fatties".  The plan has always been to change the Fatties to Phat-ties however I know that this is used quite a bit so we have to get clever! 

 

To me this blog is about bringing  like-minded people together to help one another towards their goals.  I love to promote other blogs and share the success stories that you have.  I do not feel like this is only mine and Angie's blog.  I feel like it is yours as well.  It belongs to all of you who have left comments, all of you who have been spotlighted, and all of you who inspire our posts.  None of this could be without each and every-one of you! 

 

This is where you come in to play!  Please submit a saying that you feel describes our blog.  Just a short sentence to replace the cape and tiara saying.  This will be open until December 20th.  Best part of all... I am getting an awesome prize together.  However I cannot tell you what it is!  (I am going shopping tomorrow, lol)  it also depends on if a man or woman win.  I don't want to send a man all girly stuff! 

 

If I choose your saying you will be a spotlight and get a fabulous (F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S) prize.  Not only that (imagine Vanna White here)  I will have an additional prize drawing that you will be entered into by commenting, emailing, tweeting, linking this post on your blog  or facebooking.  If you twitter, link to us or facebook please let me know.  How cool is that? 

 

You can submit your idea in the comments or by email fabfatties@aol.com

 

I am really excited to change things up for the New Year and thank you so very much for being a part of this journey!

 

 

We need your help Fabulous Friends!  We will be updating our blog header and a few things at the first of the year.  One of the things that I want to change is the saying "Given a cape and tiara I could save myself"  It's not that I do not like it.  Actually I think it fits us well but with the direction this blog is going I would like the saying to be more suitable.

 

From the very start we have been asked what we will do when we lose the weight and cannot really be refered to as "fatties".  The plan has always been to change the Fatties to Phat-ties however I know that this is used quite a bit so we have to get clever! 

 

To me this blog is about bringing  like-minded people together to help one another towards their goals.  I love to promote other blogs and share the success stories that you have.  I do not feel like this is only mine and Angie's blog.  I feel like it is yours as well.  It belongs to all of you who have left comments, all of you who have been spotlighted, and all of you who inspire our posts.  None of this could be without each and every-one of you! 

 

This is where you come in to play!  Please submit a saying that you feel describes our blog.  Just a short sentence to replace the cape and tiara saying.  This will be open until December 20th.  Best part of all... I am getting an awesome prize together.  However I cannot tell you what it is!  (I am going shopping tomorrow, lol)  it also depends on if a man or woman win.  I don't want to send a man all girly stuff! 

 

If I choose your saying you will be a spotlight and get a fabulous (F-A-B-U-L-O-U-S) prize.  Not only that (imagine Vanna White here)  I will have an additional prize drawing that you will be entered into by commenting, emailing, tweeting, linking this post on your blog  or facebooking.  If you twitter, link to us or facebook please let me know.  How cool is that? 

 

You can submit your idea in the comments or by email fabfatties@aol.com

 

I am really excited to change things up for the New Year and thank you so very much for being a part of this journey!

 

 

I have come to realize something (I know you are going crazy waiting) I am a really happy person.  This is funny to me because I think back on my life and I can point out when and where I was unhappy.  Most all of the unhappy times were self-inflicted by the choices I made.  Of course we have certain times that make us sad and there is nothing we can do about it, that is just life.  Then we have everyday life, and we can choose to be happy and live it, or we can be miserable and complain about it.  To me it is all a choice and state of mind.

 

Do you see the glass as half full or half empty?  It took me years to even grasp the concept behind that believe it or not.  I just kind of did things.  Went with the groove, never stepped outside of my little warm safe box.  That is how I was when I met Mr. Fabulous and something about him made me realize I could actually choose happiness.  It is not a gift only given to certain people who deserve to be happy.  It is something that each one of us have inside of us and we can tap into it at anytime.  However, for some people they have to dig really deep, lol.

 

Another thing I have realized is that I am an optimist.  This I think can be annoying to those who are pessimistic.  I cannot imagine why!  To me there is always hope and you should NEVER give up.  Everything is possible.  I have told my 3 rottens from day 1 that they are so lucky.  They are at a point in their lives that the whole world is open to them, and they can choose to be anything they want to be, and no one can stop them but themselves.  It is true. 

 

Anyway my point is you can choose your path.  It is not made yet, no matter what you may have thought or what someone has told you.  Follow your heart and have a little faith.  Choose to be a happy person and live your life to the fullest.  No one is stopping you!

 

What makes you happy?  Are you an optimist or pessimist?  Share your two cents today and put a big smile on you face while you do!

 

 

I have come to realize something (I know you are going crazy waiting) I am a really happy person.  This is funny to me because I think back on my life and I can point out when and where I was unhappy.  Most all of the unhappy times were self-inflicted by the choices I made.  Of course we have certain times that make us sad and there is nothing we can do about it, that is just life.  Then we have everyday life, and we can choose to be happy and live it, or we can be miserable and complain about it.  To me it is all a choice and state of mind.

 

Do you see the glass as half full or half empty?  It took me years to even grasp the concept behind that believe it or not.  I just kind of did things.  Went with the groove, never stepped outside of my little warm safe box.  That is how I was when I met Mr. Fabulous and something about him made me realize I could actually choose happiness.  It is not a gift only given to certain people who deserve to be happy.  It is something that each one of us have inside of us and we can tap into it at anytime.  However, for some people they have to dig really deep, lol.

 

Another thing I have realized is that I am an optimist.  This I think can be annoying to those who are pessimistic.  I cannot imagine why!  To me there is always hope and you should NEVER give up.  Everything is possible.  I have told my 3 rottens from day 1 that they are so lucky.  They are at a point in their lives that the whole world is open to them, and they can choose to be anything they want to be, and no one can stop them but themselves.  It is true. 

 

Anyway my point is you can choose your path.  It is not made yet, no matter what you may have thought or what someone has told you.  Follow your heart and have a little faith.  Choose to be a happy person and live your life to the fullest.  No one is stopping you!

 

What makes you happy?  Are you an optimist or pessimist?  Share your two cents today and put a big smile on you face while you do!

 

 

This is the hardest post I think I have ever written.  Incase you have not already noticed in the past 8 months I have avoided putting pictures like this on here as well as my exact weight.  By doing this I have not done very well.  I have taken all of the things that hold me accountable and skirted around them for to long.  So..... 

 

A couple of things have brought me to this point.   

 

1.  I am tired of sitting at the same weight, going up and down the same 5-6 pounds over and over.  No one ever questions on here and it is not a good thing for me.  The truth is I started out at 214 pounds in April, I got down to 198 and went back up now to 206.  I have lost and gained about 35 pounds in this time, however it has been the same weight over and over. 

 

2.  I feel like I am not doing myself or anyone else who is supporting me any good by not "putting my money where my mouth is" if you know what I mean.  I am wonderful at giving advice but not forcing myself to do it.

 

3.  I realized that I cannot do this on my own.  You all have been so fabulous at helping me online but I also have  needed someone here with me in person who will help me through this.

 

What am I doing to get my shiz together?

 

1.  I got my personal trainer Heath who is committed to my success and I am so grateful for his time and dedication to my success that I am committed to him as well.  This is very powerful!

 

2.  I am tracking my Weight Watcher points daily to keep my food in check.

 

3.  I have talked to my 3 rottens and Mr. Fabulous about what I need from them.  How they need to call me on my B.S., not enable my poor habits, and support my plan.  They are WONDERFUL to say the least.  I think they have realized where I am going and they are just as excited as I am.

 

4.  I am asking you to help me as well.  If you catch me not following through, call me on it!  (TONY)  If you think you can offer advice please let me know, I am no expert and can use all of the help I can get.

 

5.  Every Sunday night I will post my progress and I will update pictures every 2 weeks.

 

I guess this is an exposed post of sorts.  That is why I have avoided pictures and my exact weight.  It lets you all know where I am weak, where I procrastinate and that I need help. 

 

So there you have it... This is a real new beginning for me and I have my support network in order, every step of the way.  I have often wondered how many years it takes to get it right.  It is different for each of us and for me I know that this is the start of the last time for me. 

 

I am taking it one day at a time knowing that tomorrow is new and I am one day closer to my goals, to better health, and to losing this weight once and for all!

 

 

This is the hardest post I think I have ever written.  Incase you have not already noticed in the past 8 months I have avoided putting pictures like this on here as well as my exact weight.  By doing this I have not done very well.  I have taken all of the things that hold me accountable and skirted around them for to long.  So..... 

 

A couple of things have brought me to this point.   

 

1.  I am tired of sitting at the same weight, going up and down the same 5-6 pounds over and over.  No one ever questions on here and it is not a good thing for me.  The truth is I started out at 214 pounds in April, I got down to 198 and went back up now to 206.  I have lost and gained about 35 pounds in this time, however it has been the same weight over and over. 

 

2.  I feel like I am not doing myself or anyone else who is supporting me any good by not "putting my money where my mouth is" if you know what I mean.  I am wonderful at giving advice but not forcing myself to do it.

 

3.  I realized that I cannot do this on my own.  You all have been so fabulous at helping me online but I also have  needed someone here with me in person who will help me through this.

 

What am I doing to get my shiz together?

 

1.  I got my personal trainer Heath who is committed to my success and I am so grateful for his time and dedication to my success that I am committed to him as well.  This is very powerful!

 

2.  I am tracking my Weight Watcher points daily to keep my food in check.

 

3.  I have talked to my 3 rottens and Mr. Fabulous about what I need from them.  How they need to call me on my B.S., not enable my poor habits, and support my plan.  They are WONDERFUL to say the least.  I think they have realized where I am going and they are just as excited as I am.

 

4.  I am asking you to help me as well.  If you catch me not following through, call me on it!  (TONY)  If you think you can offer advice please let me know, I am no expert and can use all of the help I can get.

 

5.  Every Sunday night I will post my progress and I will update pictures every 2 weeks.

 

I guess this is an exposed post of sorts.  That is why I have avoided pictures and my exact weight.  It lets you all know where I am weak, where I procrastinate and that I need help. 

 

So there you have it... This is a real new beginning for me and I have my support network in order, every step of the way.  I have often wondered how many years it takes to get it right.  It is different for each of us and for me I know that this is the start of the last time for me. 

 

I am taking it one day at a time knowing that tomorrow is new and I am one day closer to my goals, to better health, and to losing this weight once and for all!

 

 

I am so excited to do a Saturday Scramble and Ramble!  Due to Thanksgiving last week I was not able to.  We had a wonderful weekend with family and I hope you did as well. 

I just have so much to ramble on about so let's get started!

 

  

The Coolest Trainer EVER- Yesterday was my very first session with my new personal trainer, Heath.  To keep up the a.k.a.'s on here I am thinking of a much more clever name for him, but I am still working on it.  All that I can come up with so far is Heath the Hottie or Hercules Heath.  Those both seem pretty accurate and would suit him well.  LOL  Okay, enough of the  joking around! 

Seriously, I really think this is going to be a great thing.  I decided to be completely honest and let him know it all.  I let him know about my food addictions, my procrastination and my need for him to hold me accountable.   He promised me he would do his part to keep my butt on track. 

 

The very first thing I noticed that made me absolutely certain he is brilliant.  He is meeting with me in person 6 days a week at 6:00 a.m.   Obviously my mad weight lifting skills impressed him so much that he decided I was a weigh lifting pro um... I need serious help!  (I can only imagine what it looks like from his point of view) Lord have mercy!

 

I will be posting about my experience and progress weekly so be watching for updates. Yes my friends, I am going to start sharing my weight and results.  I know some of you have wondered why I have not and it has been a crutch of sorts for me, so I am just going to put it out there.  I need your help to hold me accountable as well.   This is probably the most motivated and excited I have been EVER!

 

What about Weight Watchers-  Well this is even better!  While talking with Heath about my nutrition, we agreed that Weight Watchers is a great program for me to stay on nutrition wise.  I am very happy about that!  I just barely got the freakin' point system under control. 

 

If you want to meet one of the most fabulous Weight Watcher leaders ever then check out Susan at Food Food Body Body.  While your there give her a XO because she has not been feeling well.  Here are a couple from me XOXOXOXO you can take with you.

 

Cook Yourself THIN Faster- Giveaway- 2 lucky friends are going to win a copy of the new cook book Cook Yourself THIN Faster that comes out at the end of the month.  All you have to do is leave a comment on why you like to cook.  The drawing will be held on December 15th.  You can get extra entires by sharing this on twitter and facebook as well.  Last night I made the Greek Salad Pitza... DELICIOUS!  

 

Fabulous Friends - The Spotlight blog this week AWESOME to say the least.  Jen in real life is one of the coolest chicks in blog-land.  She is always and inspiration, so make sure to check her blog out.  

I have also been watching Hilary's progress over at Tiny Glow.  Her progress is amazing, so stop by her blog.  She is kicking serious boo-tay!

  

Did you see the 60 most inspiring blogs that our readers are thankful for? 

Wow!  What a great list of inspiring blogs.  Thank you so much for sending in your suggestions.  If you have not already, make sure to spend a little time getting to know these fabulous bloggers.

 

So it looks as if my whole plan has been set in motion, exciting!  Make sure to have a wonderful week and give somebody a hug today.

 

That is a Scramble and Ramble wrap!

 



 

 

I am so excited to do a Saturday Scramble and Ramble!  Due to Thanksgiving last week I was not able to.  We had a wonderful weekend with family and I hope you did as well. 

I just have so much to ramble on about so let's get started!

 

  

The Coolest Trainer EVER- Yesterday was my very first session with my new personal trainer, Heath.  To keep up the a.k.a.'s on here I am thinking of a much more clever name for him, but I am still working on it.  All that I can come up with so far is Heath the Hottie or Hercules Heath.  Those both seem pretty accurate and would suit him well.  LOL  Okay, enough of the  joking around! 

Seriously, I really think this is going to be a great thing.  I decided to be completely honest and let him know it all.  I let him know about my food addictions, my procrastination and my need for him to hold me accountable.   He promised me he would do his part to keep my butt on track. 

 

The very first thing I noticed that made me absolutely certain he is brilliant.  He is meeting with me in person 6 days a week at 6:00 a.m.   Obviously my mad weight lifting skills impressed him so much that he decided I was a weigh lifting pro um... I need serious help!  (I can only imagine what it looks like from his point of view) Lord have mercy!

 

I will be posting about my experience and progress weekly so be watching for updates. Yes my friends, I am going to start sharing my weight and results.  I know some of you have wondered why I have not and it has been a crutch of sorts for me, so I am just going to put it out there.  I need your help to hold me accountable as well.   This is probably the most motivated and excited I have been EVER!

 

What about Weight Watchers-  Well this is even better!  While talking with Heath about my nutrition, we agreed that Weight Watchers is a great program for me to stay on nutrition wise.  I am very happy about that!  I just barely got the freakin' point system under control. 

 

If you want to meet one of the most fabulous Weight Watcher leaders ever then check out Susan at Food Food Body Body.  While your there give her a XO because she has not been feeling well.  Here are a couple from me XOXOXOXO you can take with you.

 

Cook Yourself THIN Faster- Giveaway- 2 lucky friends are going to win a copy of the new cook book Cook Yourself THIN Faster that comes out at the end of the month.  All you have to do is leave a comment on why you like to cook.  The drawing will be held on December 15th.  You can get extra entires by sharing this on twitter and facebook as well.  Last night I made the Greek Salad Pitza... DELICIOUS!  

 

Fabulous Friends - The Spotlight blog this week AWESOME to say the least.  Jen in real life is one of the coolest chicks in blog-land.  She is always and inspiration, so make sure to check her blog out.  

I have also been watching Hilary's progress over at Tiny Glow.  Her progress is amazing, so stop by her blog.  She is kicking serious boo-tay!

  

Did you see the 60 most inspiring blogs that our readers are thankful for? 

Wow!  What a great list of inspiring blogs.  Thank you so much for sending in your suggestions.  If you have not already, make sure to spend a little time getting to know these fabulous bloggers.

 

So it looks as if my whole plan has been set in motion, exciting!  Make sure to have a wonderful week and give somebody a hug today.

 

That is a Scramble and Ramble wrap!

 



 

 

Every Monday, through December 14^th, MyLifetime.com is releasing about 5 to 7 new recipes from the authors of the Cook Yourself Thin book series. 

 

This week, the site features tasty recipes like Greek salad pitza and Veggie couscous to help win over the guests during the holiday party season while keeping your caloric intake under control. To check out the rest of this week’s recipes visit: cook-yourself thin recipes.

 

These exclusive recipes cannot be found in the current book or the new one, Cook Yourself Thin FASTER — which hits shelves right before the New Year. The new book delivers more mouthwatering low-fat recipes, more skinny alternatives to your cravings, and more quick and easy meals in HALF the time!

 

When you visit the site, you will also see there is a chance to win a copy of “Cook Yourself Thin FASTER”(giveaway).

 

But, two lucky readers will also have a chance to win a copy of the book here at The Fabulous Fatties! To enter:

 

Just leave a comment on why you love to cook!  Easy enough, and if you share this post on facebook or twitter let me know, you will get extra entries for it.

 

Greek Salad Pitza

 

Serves 4
Calories per serving: 308

 

1 heart romaine, thinly sliced
1/3 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup pitted olives, preferably Klamath
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
Red pepper flakes
2 large whole-wheat pitas, cut in half
3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
4 plum tomatoes
1 teaspoon oregano
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 lemon

 

1. Preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil.

 

2. In a large bowl combine the lettuce, onion, olives, mint, red wine vinegar, oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.

 

3. Place the pita halves on the baking sheet. Top the pitas with the crumbled feta, and top with the tomatoes, oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground pepper. Place under the broiler and cook until the cheese is bubbling, about 2 to 3 minutes, taking care not to burn.

 

4. Place the pitas on serving plates and divide the salad mixture evenly among them. Top with a squeeze of lemon, and serve immediately.

 

Veggie Couscous and Tomato Salad

 

Serves 4
Calories per serving: 205

 

1 cup couscous
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 fennel bulb, trimmed and diced
2 tomatoes, cored, seeded and diced
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves

 

1. Cook couscous according to the package directions. Drain and cool to room temperature, then transfer to a large bowl.

 

2. Meanwhile, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper. Add the carrots, fennel, tomatoes, scallions and mint to the couscous. Pour the dressing over and stir until well mixed.

 

Every Monday, through December 14^th, MyLifetime.com is releasing about 5 to 7 new recipes from the authors of the Cook Yourself Thin book series. 

 

This week, the site features tasty recipes like Greek salad pitza and Veggie couscous to help win over the guests during the holiday party season while keeping your caloric intake under control. To check out the rest of this week’s recipes visit: cook-yourself thin recipes.

 

These exclusive recipes cannot be found in the current book or the new one, Cook Yourself Thin FASTER — which hits shelves right before the New Year. The new book delivers more mouthwatering low-fat recipes, more skinny alternatives to your cravings, and more quick and easy meals in HALF the time!

 

When you visit the site, you will also see there is a chance to win a copy of “Cook Yourself Thin FASTER”(giveaway).

 

But, two lucky readers will also have a chance to win a copy of the book here at The Fabulous Fatties! To enter:

 

Just leave a comment on why you love to cook!  Easy enough, and if you share this post on facebook or twitter let me know, you will get extra entries for it.

 

Greek Salad Pitza

 

Serves 4
Calories per serving: 308

 

1 heart romaine, thinly sliced
1/3 red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup pitted olives, preferably Klamath
2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
3/4 teaspoon salt, divided
Red pepper flakes
2 large whole-wheat pitas, cut in half
3/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
4 plum tomatoes
1 teaspoon oregano
Freshly ground pepper
1/2 lemon

 

1. Preheat the broiler. Line a baking sheet with foil.

 

2. In a large bowl combine the lettuce, onion, olives, mint, red wine vinegar, oil, 1/2 teaspoon salt and pepper flakes. Toss to coat evenly.

 

3. Place the pita halves on the baking sheet. Top the pitas with the crumbled feta, and top with the tomatoes, oregano, 1/4 teaspoon of salt and freshly ground pepper. Place under the broiler and cook until the cheese is bubbling, about 2 to 3 minutes, taking care not to burn.

 

4. Place the pitas on serving plates and divide the salad mixture evenly among them. Top with a squeeze of lemon, and serve immediately.

 

Veggie Couscous and Tomato Salad

 

Serves 4
Calories per serving: 205

 

1 cup couscous
1 garlic clove, minced
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 teaspoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 fennel bulb, trimmed and diced
2 tomatoes, cored, seeded and diced
2 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup finely chopped fresh mint leaves

 

1. Cook couscous according to the package directions. Drain and cool to room temperature, then transfer to a large bowl.

 

2. Meanwhile, whisk together the garlic, lemon juice, oil, salt and pepper. Add the carrots, fennel, tomatoes, scallions and mint to the couscous. Pour the dressing over and stir until well mixed.

Today's Spotlight Blog is Jen in real life!  (@bwjen on twitter)  She is one of the very first people I met when this journey began and has been an inspiration every day since. 

I firmly believe she is a challenge junkie and will win the prize, so do not underestimate her.  However, she is also one of the best team leaders and cheerleaders around. 

I just love her and consider her a dear friend.  I hope you enjoy her blog and getting to know her as much as I have.

 

XO Shannon

  

 

Procrastination

 

Last week Shannon asked if I would like to write a guest post and I was beyond thrilled!

 

Ok, I am totally stoked that I am here at FabFatties!!

 

I really had no idea what to write until I started writing! I decided to speak from the heart and tell you about my struggle with procrastination. 

 

I am the queen of last minute. I am not exactly proud of this but…I got nothing here…I just always procrastinate.  That is how I wound up 242 pounds: I will start a diet on Monday.  Monday would come and I would start a diet but by 2 o’clock I would be starving and by 3 I had “ruined” yet another diet. Since I had already ruined the day I should just go all out. Tuesday would start and I would tell myself I already ruined the week and I would start my diet next week!  

 

The next week would begin and this time I might make it to Tuesday or Wednesday but one bad meal would be the end of that week of dieting.

 

And so on the weeks would pass.

 

And all of the sudden my baby isn’t a baby anymore so I couldn’t exactly say it was baby weight. My baby is now 10. I graduated college (and got married) three years ago, so I couldn’t use balancing college, family, job, and being too busy as an excuse.  I couldn’t put it off any longer!

One day, a little more than a year ago, I woke up and needed to change.  I didn’t wait; I walked into a Weight Watchers meeting as soon as I found one! This was the best decision and the first time I didn’t procrastinate. I have learned so much from my WW meetings but the most important lesson I have learned has been about planning. I do so much better when I have a plan but I had never planned too much! In the past year I have started planning almost everything and I am learning that I procrastinate less if I have a plan.

 

Who knew that routine and order all came with planning and planning keeps me from procrastinating?!?!  I work hard at not procrastinating. It is not easy!! Then again, easy would probably bore me!

 

Planning (which is the opposite of procrastination) is what makes what I am doing a lifestyle change and not a diet! 

 

Thanks for having me and always

 

Keep it real, Jen

Today's Spotlight Blog is Jen in real life!  (@bwjen on twitter)  She is one of the very first people I met when this journey began and has been an inspiration every day since. 

I firmly believe she is a challenge junkie and will win the prize, so do not underestimate her.  However, she is also one of the best team leaders and cheerleaders around. 

I just love her and consider her a dear friend.  I hope you enjoy her blog and getting to know her as much as I have.

 

XO Shannon

  

 

Procrastination

 

Last week Shannon asked if I would like to write a guest post and I was beyond thrilled!

 

Ok, I am totally stoked that I am here at FabFatties!!

 

I really had no idea what to write until I started writing! I decided to speak from the heart and tell you about my struggle with procrastination. 

 

I am the queen of last minute. I am not exactly proud of this but…I got nothing here…I just always procrastinate.  That is how I wound up 242 pounds: I will start a diet on Monday.  Monday would come and I would start a diet but by 2 o’clock I would be starving and by 3 I had “ruined” yet another diet. Since I had already ruined the day I should just go all out. Tuesday would start and I would tell myself I already ruined the week and I would start my diet next week!  

 

The next week would begin and this time I might make it to Tuesday or Wednesday but one bad meal would be the end of that week of dieting.

 

And so on the weeks would pass.

 

And all of the sudden my baby isn’t a baby anymore so I couldn’t exactly say it was baby weight. My baby is now 10. I graduated college (and got married) three years ago, so I couldn’t use balancing college, family, job, and being too busy as an excuse.  I couldn’t put it off any longer!

One day, a little more than a year ago, I woke up and needed to change.  I didn’t wait; I walked into a Weight Watchers meeting as soon as I found one! This was the best decision and the first time I didn’t procrastinate. I have learned so much from my WW meetings but the most important lesson I have learned has been about planning. I do so much better when I have a plan but I had never planned too much! In the past year I have started planning almost everything and I am learning that I procrastinate less if I have a plan.

 

Who knew that routine and order all came with planning and planning keeps me from procrastinating?!?!  I work hard at not procrastinating. It is not easy!! Then again, easy would probably bore me!

 

Planning (which is the opposite of procrastination) is what makes what I am doing a lifestyle change and not a diet! 

 

Thanks for having me and always

 

Keep it real, Jen

 

 

Holy COW!  I lost 1 pound over this last week.  To be honest I am a bit in shock because I literally gave myself the week off.  This morning when I mentioned it to my family Rotten #3 said "Wow mom you should just eat as much as you want to!"  Kind of funny that I sit here struggling with WW points and calories then let it all go and lose!   Anyway I know better, it is a short-term thing.  Why our bodies work the way they do is beyond my area of expertise.

I am grateful to be counting my points again and keep moving forward.  One more thing that you may want to know is that since I started Weight Watchers I have lost 4 pounds total.  Not a big number but still huge in the holiday season for me, so I am thrilled about it!

 

This is an exciting week for me.  I decided to approach Christmas head on!  No I do not mean shopping, I mean fighting the temptations that I have always gave in to.  I have decided to meet with a personal trainer.  Yeah I know, awesome!  A few things have come to my attention. 

First- I have realized I need someone here in person to kick me in the arse. 

Second- I have 2 months until the cruise and I want to look and feel great. 

Third- I am really afraid of gaining weight through the holidays so I am going to take action. 

I feel good about my plan and am looking forward to getting the push from a trainer.  So Christmas cookies, BRING IT ON!

 

What is your plan of action for the holidays? 

How are you maintaining or losing weight at this tempting time of year? 

Let me know and make it a great day!

 

XO Shannon

 

If you want to know a little more about Angie and I then check out the Take 5 interview over at Plus Size From C she was so sweet to have us on her blog!  Since the interview the only change is Angie has a different job.  We joke around a lot so keep that in mind while reading.

 

Here is a sneak peek:

4. What is your ultimate dream?

Shannon: To wear a size 10 one piece swimming suit, floating down a river of chocolate as Mr. Fabulous fans me while flexing his 6 pack abs!  

Angie: Lose an unspecified amount of weight, marry Chris Daughtery and be fabulous…oh wait I already am.