The Perfect Life: A Light Way!

The Power of Authenticity

2011-08-12T14:04:00.007-04:00

Hello my fellow followers,

How have you been? I have been fabulous, as always. ( I know, my optimistic, happy personality nerves me too sometimes, but it is who I am)

While I have a measure to clarify things a bit, I thought I'd pop in and speak about the power of authenticity. People have often called me weird. I LOVE it! :) To them I say: "what is your measure of weirdness? If it's coming from you...I have nothing to worry about!"

In all honesty, I have always been regarded as 'weird'. So it's nothing new for me. Growing-up, I always felt like I didn't belong. I knew at an early age, what direction I wanted my life to go...and how I wanted to live it. I felt my purpose. I lived through my values and with passion. I understood my strengths, and always tried to share the best with others. I always (at most times) followed my instincts. I tried always to live as an example. I have often been criticized for being 'too nice'.

Living with the power of authenticity meant that I have always been unique, and I don't follow the flow of others. I choose not to wear a mask. I listen to my heart and I am myself. People love me or hate me...like anybody else. Then I best be myself, and be authentic, real and true.

Being authentic is showing the world what and whom you are. It is letting your soul shine brilliantly. Living happily, and going about your business. It is being joyful, and living your life the way you were meant to live life. It is doing things you love, and things that reflect YOU.

It is being you, even if it rattles others.It's not always an easy task. I am just as guilty as the next for averting this cause, and trying to fit in the mold of others. The end result is being something you are not, having low self-esteem, and continuous self-doubt. You have to be strong, and live what you believe: your way.

In the end, being true to myself, means I am happy and light, and...may mean I am "weird" to some. Living authentically in my own power; means that I am free to be me! And that is a gracious gift to give yourself, your heart and your soul! After all, we are on earth to live our life, and not the way another thinks we should live, and behave. We are all different, and that is in my authentic beliefs - amazingly wondrous!

Accept yourself for who you are. Live in authenticity. Unleash the power within - even if it means naysayers will find you 'weird'.

I may be weird to some - but to me and those who truly love and accept me - I am authentic!

Still Alive...just iPadliscious!

2011-01-20T12:20:00.002-05:00

Wow, it's been awhile again. So much as though, I forgot my password. BLAH!

Anyhow, I've been focusing on my novel in any of my spare time. For Christmas I received an iPad, it's a the invention of the century. I absolutely LOVE it! I carry it with me everywhere, and any spare moment I have...I have been writing.

Side note; the iPad is so neat...I have downloaded books with the ibooks app. That is addicting, as I've already spent over one hundred and fifty dollars in iTunes cards. Something so simple, as pressing a button and voila! a book in your tablet ready to read. I have my iPod set-up with all my favourite songs. I have apps that will read Antonio a story, when I'm busy. I even have an app to look at the stars in my hemisphere. I could go on and on...and I sound like an advertisement. Seriously, it's awesome. I don't know how I ever lived without it! ;)

Moving on, and back to my subject at hand...

The other day, I was thinking 'how dumb' of an idea it was to be 'writing' a novel. So it had me a little down, since I've been so passionate about the entire idea. The story has played out in my mind for about ten years. It has only been in the last year that I finally decided to pen it on paper, and see where it takes me. I never realized how much work, time and effort actually goes into writing such a novel. It's so easy when it plays in my head like a movie...

So with my recent second guessing, I decided to finish writing the novel....if for anything just for myself to say that "I DID IT"! I remember as a young girl at the age of 7 or so, sitting in front of my mother's typewriter, and wanting to just type and write a story. Even so I could barely type my name and such, I found solace in the fact that a blank sheet of paper is a journey to the healing of my soul.

One day, perhaps I will find that courage within to take that leap of faith and finally be the published author that I've always dreamed I could be.

Until then...be well, be happy, and journey in faith...

The Universal Hammer

2010-11-22T13:52:00.009-05:00

Have you ever been touched by an angel? Have you ever been given a message by a complete stranger, just when you needed it most? Have you ever been taught an important "Aha" moment by someone you don't even know? I've always known the Universe works in mysterious ways. I'm also a firm believer that when you need a pat on the back, a kind reminder or a hammer on the head - the Universe will find a way to deliver that message to you. More importantly, it comes as a whisper at first, then a gentle reminder, repeating and repeating, until finally - a hammer on the head!

The other day it happened to me; and it was a whopper, head banging message.

One of my best friend's and I set out shopping. As usual, we shared stories about our kids, and husbands. I found myself complaining, and venting mostly about my husband, and my kids. I was also feeling overwhelmed on the inside about the upcoming holiday season, and the demands it puts on the household; in particular me. As we chatted back and forth, we found comfort in each other, and managed to laugh our way through it.

As we arrived in the Christmas aisle at Costco, I came upon their Nativity set. Every year, I stare, hesitate and keep walking. Every year, I say the same thing: "I love that set, it's the most beautiful one, and I'm going to buy it." Every year, I don't buy it, and spend the one hundred dollars on a gift instead. This year was certainly no exception. As I admired it, I spoke out loud; "...it's so beautiful. I love it!" A woman beside me, agreed. I silently stared for a while longer, debating in my mind back and forth. Finally, I exclaimed; "...well guess I will call hubby, see what mood he is in, and ask for purchase approval." My friend and I both laughed out loud.

As I took my cell phone out of my purse, I felt a warm hand on my arm. It was the woman who had admired the Nativity set with me. "I would be calling my husband also right now for purchase approval, however my hubby died a few days before Christmas last year, so appreciate that you can call. I wish I could call my husband right now." Foot in my mouth. We all stood mouth agape. I choked back tears at her pain, and that of her family. "I'm sorry to hear that..." as I gently touched her arm back. She half-smiled and proceeded to speak of the fact that she was debating whether to buy the Nativity set in order to make a Christmas for her kids, despite the sorrow that surrounded them, and the fact that her mother-in-law felt it unnecessary to celebrate Christmas again this year. I cannot fathom the anguish, and the sadness that surrounds this family, especially during what is supposed to be the most magical time of the year.

I nodded, and realized an important lesson. I immediately grabbed the Nativity set, plopped it in my cart. We both smiled at each other, as she followed suit. Now every year, my Nativity set will be the first Christmas decor out. I will remember the important lesson this human angel taught me in the aisle of Costco on this fateful day. I will always cherish the holiday season, and it's true meaning, surrounded by my children and my husband. I will honour, cherish my hubby as much as I can despite my annoyances. I'm lucky to have my husband, and my children. We are fortunate to have each other...we must never take that for granted-ever!

This year, as we prepare for our busiest time of year - let us not forget this lesson. Cherishing those we love and honouring our time together always.

I know I will....

Remembrance Day

2010-11-11T11:11:00.000-05:00

Today we remember, today we pay homage, today and everyday we say "thank you".

With gratitude to our Canadian soldiers past and present.

Let us never forget their sacrifices for our freedom.

2010-07-31T12:55:00.010-04:00

"I always knew I was destined for greatness."

- Oprah Winfrey

I remember when I was a young girl, my brother went through a nasty divorce. It was an extremely difficult time for my family. The fighting, hostility and negative controversy that surrounded this entire situation, still affects my family to this day. The negative impact of lies can last generations.

Nevertheless, I recall a specific occasion where I became a potential victim in the web of venom. I was maybe 13 years old. On my own in the grocery isle, I walked passed my brother's former mother-in-law. Knowing almost everything she had said and done to degrade my parents, brother and siblings...I simply pretended she was not there, after all her mere presence beseeched her. Not missing a beat, and my presence obviously too juicy to pass-up, she felt the up most need to strike. She glared down at me and snickered under her breath; " Ugh...! I feel bad for you...you're a "Leacock" and you'll never amount to anything, like the rest of your family. A bunch of no good for nothing, french... LOSERS!"

I didn't even give her the satisfaction of her knowing that I had heard her. For her evil words fell on deaf ears, and my heart told me that...I was destined for greatness!

My Baby Rides a Bike

2010-07-03T12:21:00.002-04:00

A Great Saturday Run With My Boys

2010-06-07T10:12:00.010-04:00

Running. I love running...

The last little while with Carmelo in competitive soccer, and Diodato and myself wanting to be fit, I've been meaning to take my boys running. Real running on a real track.

We tried doing the running on the street with Carmelo. However, being close to home...never seemed to pan out, Carmelo would soon be back on our step with a 'no freakin' way I'm doing this." Trust me, he's no piece of cake when it comes to fitness.

A few times, the kids in our neighbourhood have attempted to work with Carmy. Hamooda had the great idea to build Carmy's leg muscles...jump ups on our steps. "I have no clue what this has to do with soccer, so...no thanks!" Fine, twenty sit-ups would be the punishment. Hill side up. "I'm only doing 2...I did not sign up for this." ARGH!!!! The only kid who remotely got close to training him was Massimo, and soon afterwards Carmelo sweaty, was at the patio door with a look of an imprisoned, abused child on his face. Let's not get into RUNNING. "What does soccer have ANYTHING to do with running? eh?! Tell me...that one!" We tell him everything, but he's a stubborn as they come. The only successful trainer he's had is Mark Hatfield of Hatfield's, and my hat goes out to him!

So, the other day I had an "AHA" moment. "Boys, how about we go to the track, do a run then I will take you to "Booster Juice". It was a great idea. But, would it work? Would I have a whiny four year old, and a crusty Carmelo? I had to chance it. I had to walk (or in this case) run the talk. We all geared up with running shoes, water bottles and i-touches.

It was a clear, cool sunny day. The weather was perfect for a run around the track. No excuses. The first run around the track, I thought for sure, I was going to die right there. I have to say, running on the real thing as opposed to a treadmill is way harder. When I finally reached the the starting point again, my lungs felt like they were bleeding. Seriously! I thought for sure, if I spit...there would be blood. Every breath hurt like my lungs were being stabbed over and over! However, Diodato (my 14 year old) ran by, and continued on. "umm, I thought...this was my idea, and here I am panting like a hot cow in July!". So, I pumped up my i-pod, and sprinted on.

There is something mysteriously motivating and enlivening about running on a track. I cannot explain fully into words the energy that one spans from the track. Whether it be the energy of the moment, or the aura of the runners past who have ran this very track too. With every new breathe, with every step forward and push forth of my arms, my body got into a running groove. Soon, my lungs settled down, and my legs worked hard on the track underneath it. The wind blew a gentle breeze amongst the trees around us. Even the clouds above seemed in sync with our run. It felt wonderful to be training outdoors. I let go, and felt free as I jogged on. Even Carmelo ran and loved it! Now that is a huge milestone.

During our run, Tony (my hubby) came by and watched us. The kids treasured it. I realized that this was the most fun (believe it or not) that my family and I had had in a long time. It was just us, no stress, no mess, the track and a familial achievement. We all did approximately 3k together. We all jogged at our own paces. Even my four year old Antonio ran with us. At one point he held my hand as we jogged around the track together, it was priceless. Nevertheless, there is never a dull moment in my household, and today was no exception. While running Carmelo turned to me: "Mom, when we are done burning fat, how about we go to Dairy Queen and celebrate!" That child!!! After their run, the boys and Tony then played a soccer scrimmage, while I did a few more sprint/walks around the track. It was wonderful.

It really is exhilarating to get moving as a family. I felt motivated by Diodato, inspired by Carmelo and joyful by Antonio. I felt loved by Tony who watched us run around the track with awe and pride.

I hope time will allow us to continue this running journey we have embarked on. Our goal as a family (Diodato, Carmelo and I) is to be able to easily run 5k, so that we can run the CIBC Run for the Cure, Breast Cancer Run in October in honour of my two mother-in-law's who have passed from the disease.

Be well and run on,

Still Around

2010-06-03T13:42:00.004-04:00

Hey everyone!

I'm still around. Sorry, I have seemed to abandoned you. I'll be back with a longer post in the future. For the time being, I thought I'd pop in, and keep you all posted on my whereabouts.

I think I may have piled to much on my plate! I'm really having to balance alot these days. Much more than I bargained for. I can however say that I am officially a "Soccer Mom". I absolutely love it, and to those of you who have to endure my screams during my boys' games...my apologies, but I love cheering the boys on! "Mom...gees...you are embarrassing the crap out of me...keep it down!" -Carmy

Five days a week of soccer! Along with violin, and guitar lessons. I'm busy. To add more to it, I decided to continue my studies, and took another course towards my HRM (Human Resource Management) certification. BAD BAD mistake! Honestly, I'm overwhelmed.

Nevertheless, I'm keeping up with my healthy lifestyle, aside from a flu bug that has hit my household this week. I've been running on the treadmill, and even ran at the gym. Now for anyone who has never been overweight: that is a huge HUGE milestone. I even felt good running, I don't know how I looked to the other patrons...but I worked it! LOL

I really find that book "Woman, Food and God" has REALLY helped me in the eating department. It's so strange, but for the first time in my life...there is a different aura to food and eating for me. It's slowly paying off on the scale with a four pound deficit. Nonetheless, the strange part is; I don't care. It's just a number...but in a good way, not in the way where I would be in denial about my weight. More in the sense, that I am more than just a number. Release and let go...it does make sense and is so liberating.

Moreover, I'll tell you were my copy of the book went. I was sitting in the park reading while Carmelo was at violin and Antonio played in the park (the only time I get to read, or do schooling is either violin, guitar or soccer practice). Anyhow, I was at the park finishing the very last chapter of the book. I had tens of pages folded down with quotes I wanted to keep and re-read. A chubby woman walked by and noticed the book I was reading: "...oh, I saw that book on Oprah, I've been meaning to go buy it...is it worth it?" EVERY PENNY!!!

The woman was clearly overwhelmed with her five children under the age of 10. She looked worn, and stretched to her limits. I saw a reflection of the old me in her, and I wanted to give her a ray of hope. So, I immediately finished as fast as I could the chapter. As we left the park, I walked up to her and handed the book. "Enjoy, this book has helped me...you'll love it!" The woman got teary, and all she could say was 'thank you...wow...you are so kind, I've been wanting the book, but couldn't go purchase it."

Be well, and remember to pay it forward!

I love this book!

2010-05-17T14:23:00.002-04:00

Here is an excerpt of the book I highly recommend. This week, hopefully I will have more time to blog about my 'AHA' moments and breakthrough's.
Until then, I wish you wellness!

http://www.oprah.com/health/An-Excerpt-from-Geneen-Roths-Women-Food-And-God

Wisdom from Jillian Michaels

2010-05-14T12:44:00.001-04:00

Hey Everyone!

Start the weekend off right, with some wisdom from the great Jillian Michaels.

http://lifestyle.ca.msn.com/real-life/inner-you/rodale-article.aspx?cp-documentid=24218952

I Caved!!

2010-05-06T14:16:00.004-04:00

BLAHHHHHH!!!!!

I finally caved, gave my rings to my hubby and had him bring them to the jewelers to have them re-sized. I had been hinting for so long, but deep down I didn't want them sized up. However, after nearly five years of being seen as a 'single Mom', it was time for my beautiful rings to be put back on. So Tony mentioned it again and offered to bring them in...and I handed him the platinum.

I'll be very honest, because that is what my blog is intended for: raw truth. After he left, I laid on my bed and cried. It was one of my long time goals; to have my rings fit me again. But, let's be honest...after five years, my diamonds are made to be worn, and not stored in a safe. It is what it is...and chocolate is my ENEMY!

Nonetheless, don't be fooled...I'm back to smiling (on the outside anyhow!).

The Universe never let's me down for too long though...lol (A Surprise Diamond upgrade would make me feel WAY better...!)

Nevertheless, I attended an open house at my son's school yesterday, a woman from my son's class came up to me randomly and thanked me for this blog. Cheers to you..."P's Mom". She said to me: "a woman I know well, recommended your blog to me to read about your struggle ( that's for sure!) with weight loss and how inspiring you are...I recognized it as being you when I read about Carmelo (the one and only!)...your blog is a wonderful read and such an inspiration (really?!)".

Yes, I do write to de-stress myself. Writing is extremely therapeutic for me. In addition, my wish is to inspire others because we all struggle with our body image, our family responsibilities, our marriages, our journeys, and with life in general. I love to share, learn and hearten. In return, I am the one that is inspired. Thank you!

So what have I been doing as of late? RUNNING!!! Fat girl runs! ha ha ha ( I know, not supposed to say that...!) I ran 3.5 km the other day on my treadmill and it felt AMAZING! I love running (am I trying to run from something?!). Then my sister came for a random visit...and my work-outs stopped and eating began. Gosh, I am so an emotional eater. HOWEVER, I was more controlled.

I am more in control of my eating because I am reading a FANTASTIC book. I have recommend it before, now I HIGHLY recommend it.

"Women Food and God" by Geneen Roth

I am reading it slowly, and doing some internal cleansing. I have to say, that it's like peeling an onion layer by layer. Years, and years of emotional baggage and stuff. The AHA moments are striking faster than I can read the words. More importantly, I have changed the way I view food, and the way I eat. It's very difficult to explain in words. But, I do know that I feel so FREE. I am so liberated, and by that I do not mean that I am gorging myself with food with a 'who cares attitude'. Not at all, it's like a huge grey cloud that has been hanging over me since I was 10 and realized I was chubby (thanks to my grandmother!) The grey cloud titled "DIET" is gone. When I eat, I have no guilt, and don't struggle. I ended a war with food, and all that is associated with it. Surprisingly, I am making great choices, drinking water and treating my body well. I appreciate my body more, and look at myself in a whole new light (aside from the rings incident...lol). It's like these chains that have been choking me for so many years are gone. I can breathe. I cannot emphasize enough about this book. There is something to it...and it's not a religious book at all. Nonetheless, run out and buy it!

You know there is something to be said for letting go. It is such a liberating feeling. Amazing things happen when you let go. I have found a new strength within me (along with a challenge/competition and a Starbucks win...with my friend C (who's a HUGE inspiration)! Part of that was also handing my rings over to be fitted. I am more than diamond rings that I wore when I lost 100 lbs, had to take them off when I gained it back and hoping to lose it again to re-wear them. So I let that go too (with a few tears...)

I hope you will treat yourself to the book, and experience the same enlightening growth that I am experiencing.

Be well (and go get the book!),

An Awakening Dream

2010-04-29T15:53:00.004-04:00

Last night, I had a strange dream. In my dream, it was war time and I like many others who managed to escape, we found ourselves in hiding.
There were about fifty of us...all clustered on a cold damp floor in the basement of an old abandoned building. I had a young boy with me, and my understanding was that my husband was murdered.

There huddled on the floor, there was nothing for us to do but to sleep and pray that we not be discovered, or bombed. We were all lined up on clothes, old bed sheets, towels, boxes or anything we could manage to salvage with us during our getaway.

Many of us, found each other here...hoping it would be a safe haven. Mothers tried to quiet
their babies, elders sighed heavily...not a word spoken to each other. The air was thick, cold and damp. There was a smell that lingered amongst us, a scent I have never experienced in this lifetime, and hope to never endure. The stench of death seemed to follow us everywhere. Our lives hung in the balance between living like animals, and being killed like beasts. We weren't living, but merely surviving between each breath.

Even in my dreamlike state, I knew we were all desperate, dreaming of our lives long gone. Hoping to survive, or at least protect our loved one's from the fate that awaited us all. Planes flew low over head, children began to whimper, and we all knew our time was limited, there was no where to hide, and nobody to save us...an alarm rang.

As I brushed my hand over my alarm clock, I felt an immediate sense of gratitude...for it was only a dream. Here tucked in my king size bed with oversize duvet and high thread count sheets,the sun shown down me as I opened my eyes to another day of my life. In those few moments, I felt with all my being...that even though we sense gratitude...we do not fully know the fortune of our lives today.

The alarm rang, but today I did not feel despair at having to get out of bed. I felt happiness, that I can get up, make noise without fear of execution. I felt warm as my feet touched the warm floor beneath me, and not a cold, molded cement floor. I awoke my son, feeling happy that he can go to school and learn what he wants, and not what someone else dictates he should learn.
I then went down the stairs, opened the cupboards overloaded with healthy food, gratitude filled my heart, I have the means to feed my children so they can grow strong and healthy. I packed his lunch and felt fortunate to be able to make him such a delicious meal that he will enjoy in
the company of his friends and peers.
He came down for breakfast, and I smiled at him with a good morning, for in our world...it is.

I then poured myself a coffee...the woman in my dream could only imagine a morning such as this...taken away from her through violence, and oppression. As I sipped my coffee and looked around me, we truly have so much to be grateful for. A plane flew over my house, and I realized it was travelers moving along their day too.
We take our wonderful lives for granted. No matter how mundane our lives may seem, we live, we breathe, we eat, and we move,
we speak, we sing and we dance. We are free.

I reflected upon my dream a little more before the rest of my day would move on...my heart filled with mixed emotions. How lucky I am today to be where I am...

I hope to change the way I perceive myself, my life and my experiences. I have a chance to make life count...my weight, my past, my insecurities, the negative around me, other people's words, choices etc...it's all irrelevant. I have a glorious life...with a husband who loves me, handsome, healthy children, supportive friends and family, food, shelter etc...most importantly, unlike the woman in my dream...I have the opportunity to live it.

Today, I was awakened by a dream...and I can only feel true gratefulness!

My Relationship with Chocolate

2010-04-08T13:16:00.010-04:00

Easter was four days ago. I've now eaten at least five 1 lb chocolate rabbits. I say at least because I didn't count. I've eaten and eaten chocolate like I was on a mission. I hate chocolate for what it has done to me...yet my mouth waters at the thought of it. I'm addicted.

Yesterday, as I pounded through another rabbit, my oldest Diodato looked at me and said: "Mom, stop eating the chocolate because tomorrow you are going to cry that you go to the gym for nothing, because you never lose weight anyhow. Look at yourself!" Aha!

He was right. I still finished more chocolate, because now I felt depressed, and defiant. When the sugar rush set in, and I couldn't eat anymore, I looked over the left over wrapper and thought to myself 'I love chocolate, but look what it has done to me...it doesn't love me back."

Then I felt sorry for myself.

I can't wear my wedding rings because I'm fat.
My boys have a fat mother.
I have no swag because I'm fat.
I'm always the girl with the pretty face because I'm fat.
I can't wear nice clothes because I'm fat.
I can't run the marathon I've dreamed of running because I'm fat.
I'm fat, I'm fat, because I'm fat.

Chocolate made me fat and still I nourish it with every bite.

Really, it's the story of my life. I give everything I have...even to those who have wronged me.
Chocolate. I love it. My relationship with chocolate began at a very young age. Alone, most of the time growing-up, chocolate was my friend, it comforted me. It made me happy. It made me feel warm and loved.

I was always the girl with chocolate to share. Most of my friends hung around with me because I was the girl with the junk food. I didn't know better. Hey, if you didn't teach your kids about nutrition, what would they eat? Candy, chocolate, soda etc...was always at my disposal. Nobody to tell me enough was enough. Only my body when I would eat so much that it would make me sick.

My most vivid memory of my chocolate obsession was when my paternal grand-mother passed, I was 12 years old. I baked a chocolate cake for the after funeral luncheon. However, I ate it all by myself instead. Then I recall, my first break-up with Alan B., a boy I had fallen head over heels in love with in Grade 11, and my first real boyfriend. He was so handsome (and still is), and so kind. The break-up shook me, I felt abandoned. Chocolate comforted me...and my weight began to pile back on. In 2004, when my marital problems came to surface, I tried to fight it with Nutella, but it wasn't enough and chocolate once again won me over.

So it is, my relationship with chocolate helped me through some rough times. It created some even worse moments for me, because being overweight is hell.

I have now decided to give up my relationship with chocolate. I'm sick of looking at myself, and must realize that eating chocolate makes me feel worse, not better. I am so worth the two second moment of comfort it brings to me...so much more worth it!

I am breaking-up with chocolate!!!!

A Case of Facebook Mistaken Identity

2010-03-30T12:22:00.005-04:00

I know I've blogged in the past about how I am a Facebook fraud. There are no full photos of me, only my face or photos of me hiding behind someone, and I must approve of ALL my tagged photos before hand. I've deleted, and un-tagged myself in at least a million photos, by now.

The other day, I posted the above photo as my profile photo. It is of my niece Jessica, who was embarking on a huge new chapter of her life. I wanted to send her some love, light and courage during the transition. Many thought it was me...

I got compliments on the photo "wow, you look gorgeous!", one of my long time friends from elementary school even went as far as calling another friend "Kim, lost a ton of weight? She looks smoking hot in that photo!". My friend then checked the photo, "impossible, I just seen her three weeks ago...must be an old photo of her". How embarrassing!!!!!

At first, I laughed it off...but then reality set in. I felt very ashamed, and realized that people see me...as FAT. How depressing!

Nevertheless, optimism quickly took over (thanks to my Hubby)...even though I'm big...I still am gorgeous and smoking hot! LOL

Who am I kidding?! I'm going to get there....I just have to.

Spontaneous Surprise

2010-03-24T13:02:00.008-04:00

My hubby came home yesterday with a spontaneous surprise gift for me. It was random, I didn't expect that at all and it made my day, my week and my month. My husband is so good to me. I am so lucky!

He went on his own to Lululemon Athletica and bought me a lululemon hoodie. What is even more surprising, he normally loves me wearing blue (his favourite colour), but opted to buy me a pink one just because he knew I would love it.

Moreover, I was just there the other day to purchase myself a new gym bag (love the new totes!), some yoga pants and a few tops. He felt I could use a hoodie to go along with it all, so he secretly went out yesterday to purchase me one...just because.

I love my hoodie, I love it more because he made the effort to go buy it for me, and picked it out himself. Thank you, Tony! MWAHHHHHHH!!!!

Spring Equinox

2010-03-21T12:58:00.006-04:00

First off, I need to send my fellow blogger Joania a huge cyber hug.

Joania, you have been in my thoughts and my prayers. I miss your blogs, your motivation and your inspiration. Whatever you are going through, I honour you, and I send you much love and light. Remember you are strong and beautiful inside and out!

Spring Equinox in the northern hemisphere,

Autumn Equinox in the southern hemisphere

Spring has sprung in and around me! Welcome to the first day of spring, spring equinox in the northern hemisphere. Spring, a time for rejuvenation and new beginnings. I love the promise, and glory of the spring. The melting of the snow with the warming of the sun, the first blades of green grass, the return of the geese, and the sighting of the first robin always brings warmth to my heart and a renewed sense of powerful energy.

I have been busy reading, and reading. I find it quite ironic how my 'weight' loss journey has evolved. I really have been focusing on eating well, and clean. With it, comes a great relief, and sense of over all well being. However, I will let you know that not much has changed on the scale front (blah!). Nonetheless, I look in the mirror and I do see an honest changes in my skin, my eyes and overall in my energy.

What am I doing? I am making sure to eat as much organic as I can. I am also sticking to real food (see my book recommendation below: Food Rules). In addition, I am buying grain fed, and free range meat. However, I have yet to find beef in my area that fit that criteria. Nonetheless, little changes surely add up and I can attest to a difference. I am not perfect by any means, and have the occasional slip here and there. Note, the great movie popcorn with a dash of cadbury eggs on top. A wonderful treat taught by a dear old friend of mine (A. I miss you! xox).

I have been working out, mostly cardio and must get back into a strong routine of weight training too. Being a busy mom, it's difficult to get it all in, so I really focus on doing what I can. My goal for the weeks ahead is to prioritize my time, and I'm seriously thinking of closing my facebook account. I spend way to much time on there. Maybe I will take some advice from my friend Jack Bauer, and go dark.

Also, I am enjoying my Friday night Yoga sessions. I have found an amazing Hatha Yoga instructor. Friday night yoga is gentle, calming and so invigorating. Perfect for the end of the week!

Lastly, here are the books I have been reading.

Food Rules by Michael Pollan
In Defense of Food by Michael Pollan

Mr. Pollan was on Oprah recently, and opened my eyes to Real Food and what is in our 'food'. I have yet to watch the movie "Food Inc." recommended by the author. It is on my to do list.

One thing that struck me the most was the realization that our grandmothers and grandfathers used to eat butter, drink plenty of milk, even cream, eat bread, meat and potatoes, they had sugar, and they didn't know about fats, carbs, etc... and astonishingly obesity was rare. Why is this? The simple answer; the food was real.

I am also reading:

Change Your Brain Change Your Body by Daniel G. Amen, M.D.

All I can say is Wow!

I have also started reading the anti-diet book that Oprah wants everyone to read.

Women, Food and God by Geneen Roth

I have to say, that I am slowly reading this book as light bulbs are going off, and I'm having to really reflect on almost every page.

“It's never been about the weight. It's not even about food.”
— Geneen Roth

Be well and try to eat as much 'real' food as you can,

I'm still around...

2010-03-10T10:58:00.004-05:00

Hey everyone!

I know, it's been awhile. Sorry. I think I was suffering from 'writer's block' and had nothing to say. Yep, I had nothing to say or share. Me?!

Anyhow, before I share some great new discovery of mine...I'll update you on my happenings. I've been staying true to myself, working-out and eating well. Woohoo (ala Vicky from OC housewives!)

So I've made a great discovery, and you know me; I love to share with the world. I'm always the first to run to the bookstore and buy the latest new book. However, if for once you are going to follow my advice; this is the book for you. Unless, you don't have a brain!

The book is by Dr. Daniel Amen entitled "Change Your Brain Change Your Body". It's not all about weight loss. It's for anyone who has a brain! (LOL...I love that line!). The premise is that our brain is truly our control center. If you take care of your brain, your brain will take care of you. For example, beautiful body, no disease, no early aging, no anxiety, no depression, perfect weight etc...It is such common sense when you begin to read it, however so ingenious! The guy is all about mind/body connection. I'm so into this book that I'm already looking to purchase his other books, especially the one's for children and teenagers.

Here is the link to his site:
http://www.amenclinics.com/

Be well!
Kimmy

Olympic Fever...

2010-02-19T13:32:00.003-05:00

Whew! All this Olympic fever has me soooooooo proud to be Canadian. All these late nights, have me staying up late too. I love sharing these moments with my kids.

My favourite moment thus far has been Alexandre Bilodeau's golden win for Canada. We watched all together as a family, and I turned to my boys and said: "you are watching history here, remember where you were when this happened!" :> As I cheer for our athletes, I love to cheer loudly and clap along. Apparently, I should know that they can't hear me, and I'm not really there!? Ummm...who cares! It's the Olympics kids!!!!

So aside from that...I am still on track and working-out. I've also planned to scratch something off my 'bucket' list. Come spring time, I'm going to sign up and start learning to run a 5k (apparently there's a whole method to this). I went to Lululemon (because that's how funny/crazy I am, and I love it!), and bought myself a few things I will need to begin my running journey :>. I feel silly, but EXCITED!

My good friend (I'll call her C-Bu :>), already did this 'course' on 5 k and highly recommends it. Then she added, I'd love to do it again because you forget how to run...so we are in! (YIKES!). I'm surely looking to run the Run for the Cure in October, but also there is a run in June for woman's cancers. Perhaps, I'll be ready for that. For now, I'm kind of 'training' on my treadmill. I know, I know...it's not the same. However, if I can build myself up there cardio wise, when I do start 'running' outdoors...I won't look like the fat girl in a rush to get some more chocolate!

Have a good week-end everyone. I know I will...it's my birthday week-end!!!!

P.S.
Go Canada Go!!!

Vancouver 2010!!!

2010-02-12T18:22:00.006-05:00

Love this song...resonates within all of us!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmURDjt7Ex8

A Little Update

2010-02-09T10:22:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to update you on my journey.

I have been a very good girl! lol I've made the effort to train, do cardio and do yoga. It feels great to get some alone, me time! I have no excuses...zero.

My only complaint was that yesterday, I got a nail in my tire and had to take a pause. I was set to do my core circuit training, I love the Monday class because it really instills a tone for the week, however things don't always pan out that way...and frustration sets in quickly with me. I had a last minute meeting to attend with Carmelo's french teacher. In addition, the core class time got moved up a half hour, so there was no hope for me.

Sometimes, these tests really 'test' us. I came home after the meeting, when it really sunk that I wouldn't make the session, I was frustrated and angry. In fact, I went to bed angry...and I tossed and turned until about 3 a.m. At that point, I realized that being a busy mom and wife means that I won't always be able to follow my 'planned' schedule. What I need to do is to go with the flow, and promise myself that come the next day, I brush myself off and keep on my journey. I guess I'm so afraid that if I miss ONE day it means I've fallen off the wagon completely, and I don't want to go there ANYMORE!

I've also done some emotional, internal cleansing. That feels wonderful and so enlightening. As for now, I've realized that some things, and some people (especially the one's who purposely are negative, and hurtful), they don't matter. I must choose to refuse to engage in their "games" or choices. I am truly sensitive, and consider myself highly intuitive. I understand situations, people and such on a different level that I cannot always explain into words. However, it wears on me emotionally, psychologically, and spiritually. In turn, it shows on my body. I'm slowly realizing that I must focus on those who love and support me, everything else is just not worth the energy!

I'm moving on...and growing, hopefully as I shrink!

Have a great Tuesday!
Kimmy

2010-02-04T13:26:00.005-05:00

Presenting our eight year old son Carmelo in his first violin recital. He's been playing about a year now, and has come a long way. The violin is an extremely difficult instrument to play. We are so very proud of him, that we just had to share!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4RrMJ-yqHSU

2010-02-02T17:54:00.012-05:00

My newest AHA moment....

Only one thing separates fat or fit and that is the letter

I am strong

I am worthy

I am loved

I am beautiful

I am deserving

I am valued

I am healthy

I am blessed

I am

I can

I will

F.I.T!

The Power of Change!

2010-01-29T12:30:00.003-05:00

Who am I? Is the question that comes to mind as I sit here. What purpose does this transformation serve? What is the benefit? Well, I can tell you that who I am now is not who I was 3 years ago or even last year. Along with the world changing, so am I. Looking deep within me has prompted a lot of change in and around me and is becoming more and more apparent. The life that I used to lead was not bad, just empty. There was no purpose, besides the normal things of being a wonderful wife and loving mother. Don't get me wrong, I absolutely love and adore those jobs, but what was it that I wanted to do, what was my destiny? How can I serve and help people enrich their lives? And in turn, that is what would provide the enrichment that I needed on this earth.
Change is not bad or optional, it just is. Staying stagnant will not provide the growth internally and externally. As the saying goes, you should not go by the same philosophies at 40 as you did at 20. There is so much more to life than that. On this self-development path, there have been ups and downs as new thought patterns emerged and different perspectives and outlooks showed themselves. I can attain that not everyone will understand what is going on. Conquering change and letting it flow into your life has such a positive impact. Getting past the "old" story and letting go of what is not aligning with my purpose and passion, changing my mindset to grab a hold of all the knowledge available to increase my self-worth, competency and to know that I am deserving of a full life, is a process, but it was and is one that inspires and contributes to letting old habits, beliefs and patterns that serve no more purpose to fall away.
When I ponder the questions that I asked at the beginning, as to who am I?...the answer to that is a person of growth and change. A person who accepts life and all its excitement and challenges. What is the purpose and benefit of this transformation? More than you can imagine... Having a life of purpose, being able to grow and change and feel true inspiration, happiness and passion. That is what makes this journey worthwhile.
Change is not something to be feared. It is a beautiful experience and it will happen. Scary at times, but with being able to push past that fear that everything must remain the same, and to set out on a journey of your own self discovery can be threatening to some. By thinking of yourself, you set it in motion that you are worth finding and exploring. Finding the "thing(s)" that gets you motivated to do what you do and to have the positive focus on your life and benefit to others, not only gives you a more fulfilled life but strengthens you as a whole. The people around you will need to love you for you and accept all the good that has transpired within and around you. Mapping out the life that you desire and taking all the necessary steps helps you take action and responsibility for you. Only you can make those changes, nobody else.
What are you doing to change your life? Are you living the authentic, passion-filled, happy life that you've imagined you'd have? What is holding you back? What step can you do today to head in the direction of your goals and dreams? Take back your power and reclaim your life!

~~~~~~Find YOUR Answers....................................
..........................................................Achieve Balance.............

Reclaim YOUR Life!~~~~~~~~~~~~

Cheers,
Tania Boutin

Reclaim Your Life Coach & Motivational Teacherwww.transformation-coaching.com

No Excuses...Really!

2010-01-28T09:48:00.002-05:00

I've been working my butt-off, well not really because apparently: it's still there!

The past two weeks, I have had no excuses to work-out. Really! My father-in-law had a full-time Nanny living with him, to help with his recovery from him massive coronary. Every winter, he ventures off to Florida. He has been doing so for the last fifteen years. To change that...would be devastating. However, being as the young woman had only been in Canada for less than a year, her visa application to visit the U.S. was denied. My father-in-law chose to leave anyway.

So for the first month, she stayed with my brother-in-law's family. Last week, she came to our house. At first, I will admit...I wasn't crazy about the whole idea. I'm the type of person who loves, LOVES her time alone. I spent most of my childhood growing-up alone, so that is a way of life for me. Besides, my home is already always coming and going with people. So I cherish the quiet time.

They say "blessings come in all sorts of disguises". I have to say that I was very wrong and 'crazy'. I mean, who wouldn't want a Nanny in their home, helping them?! With someone POWER CLEANING my home, and mending to my children (however, that task I still do mostly myself), I really had no excuses. I decided that if there was ever a time to get back in a routine of working-out...now was it. If I couldn't motivate myself to train, exercise now...I never will.

In addition, I read an article by Oprah (love her wisdom) that truly resonated with me. Oprah was talking about her goals to herself last year, to work-out more and eat better. She affirms that she 'hates' working-out. Who doesn't? Anyhow, she realized that by calling it "working-out", it was actually putting a negative twist to exercise. She has now changed the way she views 'working-out' by calling it: "honoring her body". So true!

I'm happy to report that I've stayed true to myself. I've trained and honoured my body a lot these past two weeks. I've even ran on the treadmill in the morning instead of going back to bed! The result? I feel amazing....again! I've lost three (3) pounds.
I'm counting down to my goal: February 22.

The universe has offered me a gift, that I really can't pass up and must take full advantage of.

I'm off to honour my body and myself...

Have a great day everyone!
xox

Kimmy

Beautiful Blogger

2010-01-20T12:40:00.012-05:00

So much to catch-up on, I hope I don't bore you blabbing. More importantly, this all seems so mundane knowing what is happening in Haiti. Nonetheless, I feel like I have abandoned my blogging. I wanted to come back, and let you know how everything is going.

First off, I had another taste of "I'm overweight...great what will they think?" reality. I hate this! A few months ago, I re-connected via facebook (Love that!) with an old highschool friend. Hopefully, he is NOT reading my blog...

Anyhow, I had a crush on him in highschool, but I stayed away because he had started hanging around with the wrong crowd. He was always such a great guy...a real sweetheart. I had high morale expectations for myself back then...and the crowd he was hanging out with, without being to judgemental was not the direction I wished my life to go in...lol (yeah...then I ended up with an italian ;>)

Fast forward 18 years (yikes), this guy is still handsome (hot) as ever, and seems to have really straightened out his life. So proud of him! I mean, if you really knew where we came from, and how life can be quite difficult at times, you'd understand. Sometimes, when I look back at photos (via facebook) or actually go back home, I find people haven't changed. They still do what they did 20 years ago. I don't know if it's like that for everyone else, but in our small town...it is. I don't want to judge, and it's really hard not to, however there is more to life than sitting in a garage, getting stoned and drunk every night. Seriously, the only long lasting business that has stood the test of time: The Beer Store and LCBO. That is sad.

To see this guy, leave the north and COMPLETELY change his life and be VERY successful with it, is amazing. We've chatted via facebook and facebook messenger. It is really great to re-connect like that. So, he sent me a message saying he was coming to Ottawa for a quick trip and maybe we could connect. PANIC!

I have posted a few pictures of myself on facebook...but nothing could prepare anyone. The last time this guy saw me...I was thin, young and cute (:. Now, the way I see myself...besides cute, funny and nice...is not good. The torture we put ourselves through...eh?! I can't believe it. Anyone, who has been or is overweight will understand this.

However, it goes way deeper than seeing an old handsome friend again after 15+ years. It's more the fact, that my body is not aligned with the true me that resides inside. At this point, it's not easy to say: "here I am...a little fluffier than you remember!" I've missed so many opportunities, events, vacations etc...because of my size and weight. I have come to realize that it's time to stop writing about it, and start taking action! I need to be the change I know I am inside. Somehow, someway we all have to, just in our own different way. For me, I can get so frustrated, and emotional about it all...and it is easy to go back to the old Kimmy, the one who is the emotional eater. Therefore, I wondered if I was doing this all for nothing...

Then I came on my blog to write about, and saw that I received "The Beautiful Blogger award"! Wow!!! I was blown away. Thank you Kimberley. What perfect timing. I must continue my journey, not give-up or give in. I need to be happy with myself, and continue to improve on who I am on the outside as well as the inside. It is something we all look to achieve. In addition, maybe my friend was right when she said that...an old friend will always see the true Kimmy...beautiful and sweet always. Beautiful blogger award...so grateful!

This incidence just made me want to work harder than ever. This year is a big year event wise...

A high school reunion

My 10 yr wedding anniversary

I vow to myself that I won't be hiding, running away from these events...it is up to me not to let myself down again!

"When it comes to matters of the heart, people get better with age. As you grow and become truly happy with who you are, you can then be happy with those around you." - Rachel Roy, as read in the Oprah Magazine (February, 2010)

I'm thrilled to have received this 'Beautiful Blogger' award, I now have to list seven other Beautiful Bloggers and list seven facts about myself that you don't already know. Then I am to pass it on to seven other Beautiful Bloggers.

7 Facts About Myself That You Don't Already Know

Growing-up, I was a huge fan of Wayne Gretzky #99. I loved how he was so great at hockey, he was genuine and had integrity. I cried the day he got married! (lol)

I am intuitive/ psychic (my close friends know this...as over the years my predictions for them have come true). Sometimes, I will have a vision, a dream or hear something in my head/heart...and it comes true.

I can read people's energy and aura's. I don't see aura, I feel it...it's very strange to explain.

I was my graduating highschool valedictorian.

I love to sing, however I am horrible (and I know it, but a happy heart sings no matter what! :>)

I love to read.

I have a huge celebrity crush on Kiefer Sutherland (Jack Bauer 24).

To the beautiful bloggers, I pass the award onto: Stefania, Tania, Joania, Susan, Sandy, Denise and Counting Girl. However, if I could pass it on to everyone who's blogs I have read...I would. I would also pass it on to all my fellow reader's who follow my crazy tales!

2010-01-15T13:39:00.001-05:00

Sending my prayers, love, light and a zillion angels to the people of Haiti.

We are all one. When someone hurts, we all hurt. Let us get through this together.

I'm BAAAAAAAAAACK!

2010-01-09T14:37:00.004-05:00

It's a whole new year, a time to re-discover ourselves, out with the old, in with the new...

Like everyone else, the holidays are an extremely busy time, and we set ourselves aside, and go with the flow. After two weeks, of guests, entertaining, eating, eating and more eating, Tony and I set January 4 as our 'back on track' date.

Come the end of the year, we both realized we had been starting to feel like 'crap' again. All this eating, and drinking had caught up to us. I noticed that I wasn't sleeping well, and my body was achy all day. In addition, I had no energy and had cravings all day long. Tony noticed that his persistent back problem was ten fold, and that he was more irritable. We both looked forward to eating well, and working-out again. Date set: Monday, January 4.

I woke-up Monday morning feeling awful. I was running a fever, had a headache and a soar throat. I noticed that this was my first 'sick' day in a long time...probably since I started eating better. Obviously, the holiday's had finally caught up to me. "Great, why does my body insist on sabotaging me?"

As though it had heard me a little voice inside me replied: "your body tried it's best to sustain you through all of the craziness that has been around you, on top of that...you have nourished it with nothing 'good', you haven't worked-out, you haven't hydrated your body...what do you expect?!"

Very true! However, there is always more than meets the eye. Today, my sister was expected to arrive. Starting to eat better, train etc...with her around is a challenge to say the least. No disrespect to her at all, and I love her very much. But, this is the woman who once sat on a couch watching me run on the treadmill while she ate a bag of chips, drank a soda and said: "wtf do you do that shit for?!" Another time she came down to watch me work-out and actually fell asleep! She may be a good cook and all that...but healthy lifestyle she ain't! She hardly ever eats her cooking (ummm...) and loves to eat 'junk'. So trying to eat healthy with her around just adds to the stress of being sick, getting back to routine and all that. Still such is life, and in times like that I have learned that survival is best. Just getting through it all and doing the best you can sometimes means success.

In she came like a hurricane with her chips, her cheesies, her chocolate bars, her Pepsi, her butter shortbread cookies, her homemade perogies, chicken pot pies, meat pies and cakes! Yiiiiiiiiiiiiikes!

Nonetheless, I wasn't going to let it get the best of me. Even though my fever was wearing me down, I still attended my core circuit training session. I must admit that it felt pretty great to get back on track again. I wanted so much to get back on track this week...

Unfortunately, the rest of the week was a void. By Tuesday, my body was beat and the cold had overtaken me. I decided to try my best to eat well, avoid the junk food and start back strong Monday. Per contra, I did cave a little, I had some delicious perogies ( I mean you can't pass those up!), and a shortbread cookie or two. But, I was controlled and didn't go overboard like I would of in the past under the influence of my sister.

My body is now relieved of temptations as my sister has now gone back home, and the house is back to normal. I know with Tony and myself: we CANNOT have any 'junk' food in the house. If it's here, we'll eat it. So out with that too. Furthermore, we watched the season premiere of "The Biggest Loser" (great way to be inspired), and both decided that our healthy journeys' must continue.

I weighed myself this morning, and my body has been good to me. I have gained maybe (give or take) 3lbs or so. I am at 210 lbs. Honestly, I'm happy with that. I didn't gain the usual 7 lbs that most gain over the holidays. So I must look on the bright side to all this. I had a wonderful holiday season, I enjoyed myself immensly, even my visit with my sister, but now it's time to get down to business.

What better way to get on track, but to set a goal. This year promises to be an exciting year. My 37th birthday is around the corner. I love, love my birthday (hey, if I don't like my birthday than who will?! :>). What better gift to give myself than the gift of health! My birthday is February 22nd, so I have six weeks to get to my goal of 199lbs. That is six weeks to lose 11 lbs. I'm going to work hard and do it! No excuses...I'm starting year 37 in the 100 club!

Now hopefully...my sister won't be coming to visit anytime soon, and I'll be all set!

Set your short term goal and get to it...out with the old and in with the new!

Kimmy

Living From Gratitude

2010-01-03T13:59:00.002-05:00

You hear it all the time; "Gratitude is powerful!" Have you ever wondered just HOW powerful?

When it comes to the Law of Attraction, gratitude creates a super-charged boost of energy that attracts all wonderful things into your life. You've probably heard that before. But why is it so powerful? One reason is because you're focusing on the positive, so you automatically attract more positive experiences into your life - you've probably heard that before too.

But what you may not know is what happens ENERGETICALLY when you're focusing on gratitude. Remember that the Law of Attraction is activated according to your thoughts, feelings, beliefs and expectations. Whatever you think, feel, believe and expect is what you'll get.

What does this have to do with gratitude? To answer that question, consider what you are thinking, feeling, believing and expecting when you feel grateful and appreciative.

- You feel blessed.

- You feel abundant.

- You feel happy.

- You feel content.

- You feel secure.

- You feel like all is right in your world.

And when you focus on these types of feelings, you are sending a strong message to the universe that all of these things are TRUE. And you know what the universe says? "You're absolutely right! Here's your wealth. Here's some more joy. Here's some more good stuff - thanks for asking for it, I've been trying to send it to you but you wouldn't let it in!"

I've long believed in the power of gratitude, but it didn't fully come clear to me until recently when I set an intention to "Live From Gratitude" for an entire day. "Living From Gratitude" meant that I would give sincere thanks for everything I experienced, saw, felt, heard or did that day. Let me tell you, that's a LOT of gratitude! :-)

I must have said "thank you" thousands of times that day. The moment I opened my eyes that morning, I began giving thanks for everything in my life. I called to mind my friends and family, my job, my home, my health - even my cats. And I gave thanks for them. Not just "surface thanks," but deep, heartfelt gratitude.

As I went about my normal daily activities, I thanked the universe for everything I touched or experienced. As I washed the dishes, I said, "Thank you for these dishes to hold the food we eat, and thank you for the food we eat! Thank you for this silverware - it was a wedding gift to my husband and I; and thank you for my wonderful husband!"

The whole time I worked at my job I said over and over, "Thank you for my work and the way it fulfills me. Thank you for the opportunity to earn money doing something I love. Thank you for the ways my work challenges me and reminds me that I'm stronger than I often think I am."

As I moved through my day, I gave thanks for my feet as I walked, for my lungs as I breathed, for my eyes as I looked at the world around me, and I gave thanks for every person I encountered - and more!

A lot of great things happened as a result of that one day of Living From Gratitude - too many to list here. Overall, I'd have to say that true miracles happened. My income for that day ended up being TRIPLE what it normally is. I received a couple of fantastic opportunities that I've begun working on, and good things happened everywhere I went. But that outer stuff is just the icing on the cake.

The TRUE GIFT of that day is the way I felt. Everything suddenly seemed so SACRED. Everything in my life was good. I was good. I was happy. I was at peace. I wasn't stuck or struggling or fearful or frustrated.

My heart and mind were lifted to a place that few people get to experience. It was a deeply moving, spiritual experience on all levels.

I have NEVER experienced a day more POWER-FULL as that one! In fact, it was so powerful that I've since adopted it as an ongoing intention every day. And yes, every day becomes more magical than the one before!

If you've never given gratitude a fair chance or if you've been lukewarm in your application of it, try "Living From Gratitude" for one day. Just one day. Give thanks for everything you see, feel, hear, do and experience. It will blow your mind! :-)

As a side note, this same process can be used on things that you don't yet have, but want to attract! For example, if you're trying to attract a better job, spend the whole day saying, "Thank you so much for my wonderful new job! It pays so well and I get to do work I truly LOVE, and I am so thankful for that!" Don't just say the words; really focus on FEELING the feelings of gratitude and appreciation. The words mean nothing without the feelings.

FEEL IT AND YOU'LL "BE" IT! :-)

Many Blessings, Tania Boutin

Certified Life Transformation Coach & Motivational Teacher

Transformational Coaching with Tania http://www.transformation-coaching.com/

VISIT NOW TO RECEIVE "2" F*REE EBOOKS!

Source: www.mindfulattraction.com

2009-12-31T12:24:00.004-05:00

Well the cusp of the New Year is upon us. A wise friend once told me that New Year's Eve is a very powerful day to write down your desires, in order to manifest them. Today we are looking at a Blue Moon, making the magical powers ten fold.

On New Year's Eve, I always love to write down some resolutions...however, this year I have decided to jot down a 'grateful' list and a 'looking forward to' list. In addition, it is great to type them down, but handwritten notes are extremely powerful.

Here is my message:

"New Year's Eve: A Blue Moon

The last day of the year is upon us, as I reflect back on the days past...I can only find gratitude within my heart. As much as it was a trying time on some days, it was also a magical time in other ways. What I have learned is that love above all prevails.

Many lessons were learned. With all the surgeries and hospital stays, we learned that our health is precious and delicate. We must honour our bodies as sacred and always treat them as such. We learned that our time together is sacred. We also realized most deeply whom we can count on during these trying times. Those of us who are fortunate to always have the love and support of loved one's through thick and thin. For them, we are always grateful.

We learned that our time together is sacred. We must take the time for each other, love one another and forgive those we love. We must cherish our time together. We never know what tomorrow brings, our time together is a gift.

Family is everything. That lesson will always resonate within our hearts. To those family members who are always with us, in body and spirit. We love you too!

Our friends...we are blessed with such amazing friends. Our time together is always such joy. Sometimes, our friends will disappoint us, like anything else and let us down. However, they too are gifts to us, and we must honour each and everyone of them. Cherish the memories, honour our moments together, appreciate them all. The gift of friendship is not to be forsaken.

This year, we were also gifted new friendships. Within these relationships, beautiful kinship's were formed. That is special. So to new memories, good and bad with new and old...we look forward.

Lastly, we were blessed with many guides and teachers. People who took the time, the effort to support our family, and us. Our years ahead will only bring much more knowledge, memories and victories...for that we are greatful.

To the year ahead...

I look forward to continuing my weight loss journey. I look forward to victories both small and large. I look forward to the journey with Tony as we continue to grow in love and shrink in size. To our new journey and our new found health!

I look forward to being more with my children. To each of them a blessed year ahead awaits us. I am excited for our time together, and our vacations.

This year I am pleased to prosperous changes withing me, Tony, our family and friends. We are blessed to be so loved and cherished.

I look forward to my book: finally being completed and published. I am equally excited for the new doors and opportunities that await me in 2010. I am ready and willing!

In 2010... I am surrounded by love, devotion, joy, peace and serenity. I am financially prosperous. I am abundantly surrounded by good friends and loyal family members. I am gifted with the support of many teachers, guides and masters who assist me on my journey. I welcome 2010 with open arms. I am at my healthiest and happiest!

I will continue to inspire others to live their best, be their best and appreciate all that comes with it.

In 2010...I Kimmy am GLORIOUS!"

All the best to you all in 2010...with gratitude and love always,

Kimmy

Cheers to 2010!

2009-12-28T14:23:00.000-05:00

2009-12-23T23:50:00.004-05:00

Wishing you all the "Light" of the Holiday Season!

A Week Before Christmas!

2009-12-18T12:21:00.005-05:00

The hustle and bustle is here folks! Are you all ready?

I'm here to report that I'm doing okay health wise. My eating may be a tad off...but I'm working-out, doing yoga and still weight training. I had gained a bit of weight, but I'm back down now to 205 lbs. So I'll be starting the New Year focused on the 199 lbs! I'm feeling amazing! I noticed some changes that have me PUMPED. For one, my weights are to light, and it's time to move up! I also noticed that my waist is thinning out. My skin is also much clearer and "glowy" (no, I'm not pregnant!). So I'm surely on the right track. Kudos for still working-out despite the holiday season.

I have left to buy a few more gifts and wrap up the Holidays. I've planned a "Gingerbread Making Holiday Party" for my boys. Hopefully, I'll be able to control myself and not eat any candy.

We also ended up 'accidentally' buying a 'monstrous' Christmas tree...I've added the photo. At first, it seemed like a funny joke, and something we would most likely laugh at in years to come. But, now it has grown on me and I love my Christmas tree!

It took Tony and two other men three hours to set-up. Took me two days to decorate. Not bad, however the Obama's called and wanted their tree back! LOL

Carmelo was home for two days with a sprained ankle. That school must of had enough of us, with the Monday morning rant and then this. However, I'm a little peeved at the fact that his 'accident' happened in the morning, and the poor kid went all day without us having a phone call home to go pick him up. He walked or rather hobbled on one foot all day at school...and by the time he got home, and I removed his boot, his ankle was swollen up to twice it's size. He's a tad better today, and he wanted to go to school to be with his classmates for the final day before Christmas break. He was also excited about giving his teachers their Christmas gifts. So I let him go...with a note to the Teacher if Carmy complains of any pain; call me immediately, I'm more than happy to come pick him up. I also warned Carmelo...any rude comments or remarks from the peanut gallery; as kindly as you can...don't be afraid to defend yourself (like I need to tell him that!)!

So I was busy with that, and then with Diodato and his new found social popularity. Speaking of the President...I've been busier than the CIA trying to approve, and investigate all his latest social gatherings. Phew! I don't know about you...but back in my time, we never had birthday parties at "Bar's and Grills" in a mall. Not at the age of fourteen, anyhow.

I've also started writing a novel. I know sounds 'quirky'. But, I've had this story floating around in my brain for almost five years now. I decided to start putting it all down on paper, or rather computer, just so I can stop thinking about the plot...and what happens next etc...

Who knows...when you love to write and write as much as I do...who knows. I may get brave enough and post the prologue or something on here in the new year.

That's about all for today. Be well everyone...lot's of love and blessings. Thanks for stopping by to read my blog.

Kimmy

2009-12-15T20:42:00.003-05:00

Dr. Oz's 5 Secrets of "Waist Loss"

By Mehmet Oz, MD
Courtesy of Oprah.com

A great read! We all need 'gentle' reminders, especially this time of the year.

http://www.oprah.com/article/health/wellnessandprevention/pkgozbeauty/201001-omag-dr-oz-weight-loss

Monday Rant!

2009-12-14T22:52:00.003-05:00

Bah Humbug to crusty school secretaries!!!!!!

My son was 5 minutes late for school today, so obviously I had to run in and sign him in.

"Carmelo, you are lucky Mrs. ! is not here right now, otherwise she'd give you a detention for being late."

(I was stunned. The nerve to say this in front of me.) She was very rude about it, also...

I almost said: "...if you want to give a detention, give it to me because I'm the reason he's late!!!!"
Instead, because I'm a nice person, I said: "...things happen, it's life..."

To which she replied: "...but you have to be on time, and if it becomes a pattern come the New Year...detentions will be handed out".
I almost want to be passive aggressive and make him late on purpose; try and give him a 'detention' for being late...he's only in GRADE THREE!!!!! What is this world coming to?

I walked out, and wished my son a great day with a wink!

ARGH!!!! A detention for being late! I really should of said: "SCREW You lady! Not that it's any of your damn business...but you are just lucky that he is here only FIVE minutes late with a lunch, his homework done and dressed!!!!!!"

No Christmas gift for her!!!!!

Have a great Tuesday everyone,
Kimmy

A Little Bit of This, That and Inspiration

2009-12-09T11:56:00.006-05:00

It's a cold and stormy day here in Ottawa. Looking out my office window and onto the street all I can see is white, white and more white. We've already received about 10 cm of snow and we are expecting another 20 cm throughout the day. Winter is finally here!

I opted not to go to Yoga today because of the road conditions. However, my friend and I decided to go to the gym instead as the gym is very close. Wow, somethings surely have changed with me. LOL In the past, I would of taken this opportunity to hibernate. The excuse would have been a piece of cake, pardon the pun. "Everyone is home, and the roads are bad"...easy. I will take this victory in my new attitude, even though I loathe working-out. I love what it does to my entire being.

On another note, loved watching The Biggest Loser season finale last night. I was so happy to see Rebecca take the at home prize, and elated for Danny winning it all! Rudy did Rebecca a favour when he back stabbed her and sent her home, feeling she was his strongest competition for the title. Everyone (even I) underestimated Danny. I mean, we were all so focused on Rudy's incredible numbers on the scale, Tracey's whining and Liz's southern accent that we all but forgot about the underdog! Highlights last night were Abby who looked amazing as well as Antoine and Julio. Vavoom. Shay's incredible journey thus far brought tears to my eyes. Oh, and Amanda!!! She looked absolutely perfect. Loved her victory at wearing her very first dress since she was a little girl! Love, loved that!

However, what I don't like about this show is how contestants get so ghastly thin for the finale. Rebecca and Tracey most notably in this category. Not that I am not happy for Rebecca taking the victory away from Tracy...that was the best moment after all the cruel things Tracey did to everyone. Nonetheless, there should be rules protecting the contestants from losing too much below their recommended BMI's. Rebecca and Tracey are way to thin in my book. Rebecca has lost all her charm and cute little face...and will someone please tell her that she's a gorgeous brunette, blond just doesn't suit her.

All in all, I was elated with last night's results. The most deserving contestant's won this season as opposed to Helen's win last season. (Still can't get over the fact that she chose to send her own daughter home...so she could stay on the Ranch! Tara deserved to win last season...hands down!) I am most happy to see that Rudy did not win. I believe he played the game the entire time and stayed under the radar. Danny worked hard and kept his integrity at the same time. A well deserved win and inspiration.

Another amazing inspirational story is that of a fellow blogger Joania. Read all about her incredible journey:
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/health/journey+almost/2318975/story.html

That's it, that's all for today.
Be well!

Namaste,
Kimmy

Tweaks That Make a Difference

2009-12-08T13:36:00.003-05:00

Great advice that makes a difference courtesy of Oprah.com

http://www.oprah.com/article/health/weightloss/200809_omag_katz_eating_better

Follow-up to Stepping out of the Box

2009-12-01T14:07:00.004-05:00

I hope this finds everyone happy and well on this first day of December. Last month of the year already, time flies.

With all the happenings last week, I forgot to come back and report my 'Stepping out of the Box' experience.

Let me just say it was AWESOME and HOT!

I decided to go to Hot Power Yoga. I was extremely nervous. First of all, I am not very flexible. I do yoga very awkwardly. Not only do I look weird, I feel weird. I am also not coordinated in any way. I am clumsy...clumsy...clumsy. So being graceful, controlled and aesthetic for yoga is never going to happen for me. Nevertheless, I know that Yoga is excellent for total body wellness.

I tried doing it at home, on my own. It's just not the same. Plus, with three kids in the house and a very busy household...never any peace.

So, after much passive aggressiveness, protestation, and refutal, I decided to take the plunge. I believe it was Bob Harper who said that in order for one to change their habits, you must step out of the box. Get out of the everyday comfort zone and do something you've always wanted to do. In order to reach your goals, you must find that courage and determination to get you there.

I always aspired to be one of those fit girls. Ya, know the type. She wears all Lulu lemon clothes, and they fit her body magically. She makes the work-out gear look like formal wear the way it shapes her body. Her hair is perfectly brushed in a beautiful ponytail. Her work-out gear is neat, organized and matches. Just the way she sits on the mat, in peace...you know she's good. She's a Yoga Sensei. Her body moves effortlessly from pose to pose. She looks model perfect in every pose, smiling throughout the entire session. Anyhow, I always wished to emulate such a type when "I would be thin and fit myself'.

So thus I decided, "why wait until I'm thinner and fit"? Yoga will help me reach those goals.
I took that leap of faith, and did it. Yes, I was nervous and awkward...But, I finished. What a feeling! I cannot tell you how glorious it felt when we we were all done, and I hadn't fallen on my butt or made some burst out laughing at my attempts. I may not have looked all picture perfect (aside from maybe corpse pose!), but I did feel so free and loose afterwards. Oh! and staying at the VERY back of the class helps too! :>

I have to agree with Bob. Stepping out of the box is essential to reaching those goals. Proving to ourselves that we can do it; today. Sure being in the box makes us feel safe and secure. It gives us the excuse 'not to do it'. The box keeps us stuck. It keeps us stagnate, and holds us back from moving forth on our journey. Taking the courage and determination to make that first step gives us the power back. It shows us that we are strong, and we can do this. It opens the door to so many other experiences that await us....one step at a time.

I may not be perfectly yogalicious...but I am working on it!

Namaste,
Kimmy

Bigger Issues on the Horizon

2009-11-27T18:03:00.003-05:00

In regards to my post below, seems I have bigger, lingering issues on the horizon. The following is my conversation with Carmelo (my 8 year old son).

Carmelo: " Mom, Gabriella has a cute car. Eh?"

Me: "Sure, she does Carmy!
(taking the opportunity to instill what I had just finished posting)
Gabriella works hard, and she gets good grades. You work hard too, and when you're sixteen you can have a cute car like her!"

Carmelo: (not missing a beat, and with a tone of insult in his voice)

- "Oh, ya, I'm going to work hard alright...but not for a freakin' Toyota! It's a Lamborghini or nothing for me! Remember I'm going to be rich and when I'm sixteen...I'll be driving that Lambo!"

Who am I to be a dream killer?! I just can't win....LOL

The Teenage Wonder Years and the I-Touch Generation

2009-11-27T13:12:00.006-05:00

This is a long post, much longer than I anticipated...I got long winded on the subject. I guess I was over due to blog about this.

Back in my day ( I can't even believe I'm blogging like this...LOL), Back in my day, my parents were never around. In elementary school, they never bothered to even check if I had homework. If I had a spelling test, a dictée, a presentation, a report or any test for that matter, I would take it upon myself to prepare for it. Only in grade 7, do I remember not doing my science fair project. I wanted to test my mother...to see if she would care. Nada. I ended up in the ER the night before, overly sick from anxiety because I hadn't done my science fair project. My mother defended my cause to the principal, but never said another word to me. That was my lowest mark ever: a 60 in science that term. I am still to this day, disappointed in myself.

I never had nice school clothes. Designer for me, meant anything other than from K-Mart. Luxury items...were a pizza lunch out with my friends, a winter coat and a good pair of winter boots. I got my haircut once a year, if that.

My parents never attended parent teacher interviews, or anything to do with my school for that matter. In my school, our report cards were picked up during the evening so the teachers would get an opportunity to discuss issues with the parents. My report card was always on my desk the next morning, waiting for me. Always! My mom was never anxiously waiting at the door for me after school; "how was school?" I could of quit and my mother would of found out once the principal had gotten a hold of her.

When high school rolled around, it was pretty much the same. I was on my own. Regardless, I was still an 'A' student. I knew that education was power. I did my homework, studied and always did my best to get a good mark. I attended school without missing classes. The only time I remember skipping class was in Mrs. Fleury's Drama class when my friend Sylvie McCrea had this wonderful idea to skip class and go to the "caf." for some chocolate (hey...who could resist that?! ha ha ha). That was my first 'jail' ever and only one. I knew better. This was not the path I wished to take.

Moreover, when the group of kids I was hanging-out with, thwarted on a different path, I made new friends. Don't get me wrong. I socialized, I partied, I drank and I even tried smoking. I never tried drugs because that is where I drew the line, it was not the path that would lead me to my vision.

I had to get an after-school job as soon as I was fourteen. In order to pay for my own clothes, and school stuff. I worked everyday as much as I could.

I was high school valedictorian. My parents felt obliged (my mom anyhow) to come to my graduation. I received many scholarships for University. My first year was practically paid. I had a part-time job working cashier at the same grocery store that my mom had worked at for most of her life. When I told her I was going to quit my job in order to go to University, she was stunned. "Why would you go to University, when you have a secure job as a cashier?"

I went to University. I was an honour student.

As a mother, I vowed that I would support my children throughout their lives. I attend every school function. I have attended every parent-teacher interview there was. I volunteer for the schools. I always greet my kids with "how was your school day?" "Any homework?". I am always there to help and support. I drive them to all their extra curricular activities, and I am interested enough to stay and watch.

Our children today live in the lap of luxury. Too much. My fourteen year old son's room is huge. For starters, he has a King size bed. His room comes with a cathedral ceiling, walk-in closet, ensuite bath, computer with Internet service, television, DVD system and PlayStation 3. We could probably rent out his room for $ 150 a night! He has a cell phone, and an I-touch. He has owned three generation i-pods that are now null and void, in his mind. Whatever new gadget comes out...it's a must on his wish list. At his tender age, he has already rode a Lamborghini and a Ferrari. The life of teenagers today!

There is a fine line between spoiling your kids and loving them. There is a fine line between right and wrong. Most every parent wants nothing but the best for their children. However, what is best? Certainly not the path that these kids are going down. We are not doing them any favours. Trust me. We are actually doing the opposite and ruining the next generation. Kids today have to much, to soon. They have lost all concept of anything. The Internet, the material world...has changed everything. I have come to realize that my kids do not need 'Gucci', 'Rolex', 'Ed Hardy' etc...nice things are nice, but there needs to be a bold line drawn. My boy doesn't need $150 + jeans. They don't teach him nothing. They won't teach him the value, morals and determination one needs to succeed and live a good life.

One need only look at the teens of Hollywood to understand this concept. Our adolescence are raging with these designer duds, doing things and experiencing things that only queens and kings of our past have. The kids of today experience way too much, long before they have matured the concept of appreciation and significance. Think about it...these kids who live in a world of pedicures, manicures, fake boobs, botox, and designer duds without any concept of work, will be leading our planet very soon. That is scary! Our kids are in crisis mode. The only thing they equate to happiness is a material item...the newest, shiniest most expensive item. Have we lost our marbles? We need to let kids be kids. Moreover, let's not even touch the subject of teens, sex and drugs. They are however all linked. The easy, crazy life.

I once had the brilliant idea of paying Diodato to do chores around the house. After all, it would be good for him to earn his own money, and learn the value of a good dollar. It worked really well until my hubby got involved. He offered to pay him one hundred bucks ($100!) to shovel the driveway. WHAT?! Insane!

So I changed the course of that. Diodato and Carmelo now do chores around the house because they are part of the family, and that's what we do...we take care of our familial home. At first, I was met with alot of 'ah... this sucks...' etc....Now, they just do it. Diodato is in charge of garbage, and garbage day. He is in charge of bringing-up the folded laundry for me, setting the table and some days emptying the dishwasher. Carmelo is in charge of shoes at the door, toys lying around, setting the table and helping to clear the table after dinner.

I have found that they have a greater appreciation of our home, and the work that needs to be done to be proud of our family. I also have cut back on gifts and buying such. In the past, I would rush out and buy them the newest game counsel, their favourite game and all the attachments for example. Their Christmas list could be a mile long. Now, we always wait for a special occasion like birthdays, great report cards and such to purchase any gift. Moreover, if they want something extra, they must earn it by doing extra chores around the home, and I don't pay a hundred dollars either! At Christmas, their list are down to three items, and if they wish to ask Santa for a big item, than only one thing is to be asked.

My boys are good boys. Diodato is heading into his 'rough' years of adolescence. He is fourteen now. He is a good kid, with a great heart. That is something that has not changed, thankfully over the years. Every teacher who has ever taught him, has fallen in love with him.

Last night we attended parent-teacher interviews. Diodato aspires to become an engineer. Something, we strongly support him with. He is intelligent, however not driven. Motivation and lack thereof has always been an issue for him. The easy way...always. Who can blame him? It's been his way of life all along. Easy, simple and anything he wants at his finger tips.

He once told me during one of my 'this is what it was like for me' speeches that he was going to go into hairdressing and work for the family's business'. My hubby and his family have surely been successful, and we graciously reap the rewards of that. Nevertheless, it is not an option for him. University first...then you will have the family's business to fall back on.

Another time, he announced that he would take a year off after Grade 12 to weigh out his options! Um mm...what options? Another easy way out, certainly!

His grades are pretty good. He is a B student. But, not to his full potential, which is greatly frustrating and disappointing as a parent. Watching your kid throw away opportunity is not easy. For us, as parents, we have done all that we can. We are here to help him with his homework (his school bag has been empty for most of the semester! EMPTY!!!), help him prepare for oral presentations, tests etc...Maybe that is the issue.

So last night, after much pondering, we sat down and had a discussion with him. We went over the usual:
"...we never had it so easy....our parents never cared...blah blah blah. Nonetheless, we then turned a different root:

He is responsible for his grades, and everything else. We won't badger him for getting an 83% in Math IF we see him doing work and trying his best. Nevertheless, we will badger and take action accordingly when he gets an 83% with no effort, because his potential is thrown away. The consequences? We will begin taking away his privileges, starting with the computer than the TV, the I-touch and go down the list accordingly. We came upon an agreement of such.

We can talk until we're blue in the face about the insignificance of the "I-Touch" generation, and all the luxury that comes with it. In the end, I just have to back my words and beliefs with action. Somewhere, somehow we must find the middle ground. The perfect balance between loving our children, spoiling them slightly all the while teaching them the grounds to turn them into amazing, successful adults. These days the task is getting more and more difficult. Our last resort will be tough love...and we just will have to pretend to no longer care.

A Lesson Learned...and an Apology

2009-11-26T13:25:00.006-05:00

Upon further reflection...
Perhaps, it is time for me "to take a good look in the mirror"!

I am a firm believer in the power of the universe, and lessons learned upon a journey. I also know that sometimes, we must take ownership, and own what we create. This shows us and the world who we truly are. Running, is only for cowards.

Recently, I blogged about my experiences working-out as an unfit, overweight girl. Let me firmly point out, that not long ago...I was on the other side of the fence; a fit, thin girl. So am blogging as someone who has a perspective on both sides of the coin, so to speak.

Nonetheless, perhaps I jumped to quick to judgement and reflected my own feelings, or 'insecurities' as someone pointed out to me. With all do respect, yes I do have alot of issues in that department. I am very frustrated with my body because I am no longer the fit person I used to be. I let myself go way beyond.

Whenever I work-out now, my recent hernia surgery is ALWAYS at the back of my mind. I can clearly hear the words of a woman I encountered who was complaining of her hernia: "good luck to you sweetie...I've had the surgery four times. It doesn't work, and be careful not to pop out again!" Great?! The last thing I want is to go through that again!

As well, my body is failing me on other accounts too. My accelerated heart rate, my low vitamin D deficiency that just won't go away no matter how much vitamin D I consume. Recently, my fall and my injured tail bone. Equally, I cannot be the stubborn girl that is bursting within me. I must control myself, and take it easy.

However, this post is not about my 'truths' and my "insecurity reflecting because YOU feel like you're overweight and unfit."

All this to say...that I wish I was "Fit Queen". As I previously blogged, I aspire to be people like them. The way they flow, and make working-out look so effortlessly easy. The way they are so in shape, and their body responds with strength and agility. It is wondrous! Perhaps, my Anonymous commentator was too quick to judge my post, and missed that part?

Regardless, I realize I made a quick assumption and for that I apologize. I stepped out of line. I am eating crow (hopefully, it's not to high in calories and fat! ha ha ha), and should know better. I am not a mean spirited person, and meant no ill will at all in my post.

I have chosen NOT to publish the comment under my Love and Support wall. At the end of the day, I want to hold on to the positive: Love and Support!

Winston Churchhill once said: “All men make mistakes, but only wise men learn from their mistakes.”

Namaste,
Kimmy

Please Come Back Soon...

2009-11-26T13:03:00.002-05:00

I'm blogging something important, but have to run do to motherly duties...

Namaste,
Kim

I'm a Fighter!

2009-11-21T15:09:00.006-05:00

Yesterday, while weight training I had a minor set back. I fell off my exercise ball right onto my tailbone. I injured myself severely. I actually started to cry. What a pain!!

(My three year old, saddistic Antonio thought it was hiliarious!)

Anyhow, I'm quite soar today. Pah! This isn't going to stop me from working out and reaching my goals.

I took the boys for some Starbucks today after Carmy's soccer, and walked by Sport Check and there it was: my perfect new work-out tee. I just had to have it!

:> (I'm off to break-in sweat my new tee thanks to advil...and some stubborness.)

On this journey, whatever works!

Mantra of the Day

2009-11-21T11:15:00.003-05:00

"When you work-out don't do it because you 'have to', do it because you want to!"

Thank God It's Friday Update

2009-11-20T12:14:00.006-05:00

Oprah!!!! Is ending her show?! Holy! I have basically a year and a half to get on there. Otherwise, my psychics' prediction won't come true!? (Sounds ludicrous, I know...but more than one person has told me this...so one can dream, eh?!) I'm not worried though. Apparently, Oprah is ending her show, to start up some stuff on her OWN network. Ah...we'll leave it with the Universe and see what happens.

Speaking of the Universe and freaky stuff. It has been a year to date since I last worked out with my ex-trainer Lene at Goodlife. So this week last year was the last I trained with her, when I found out I had a hernia. The other day, I went to the gym and noticed Lene's photo off the 'trainer wall'.

Lene has recently quit Goodlife and started working at a private gym, here in my neighbourhood (fancy that!). I contacted her and discovered that she is giving exercise classes at the private gym.

I'm in! The time, the day, the location and the price is perfect. The creepy thing is....we will continue our journey working together: one year to the date where we left off! Plus, I am at the exact weight I was a year ago. Most notably, I'm in a much better place emotionally and mentally than last year at this time. Life can be beautifully strange

I'm hoping this will shake things up for me. My weight is really stuck. I'm trying hard not to get discouraged. Furthermore, I'm working out extra hard in order to budge the scale before I get depressed and disheartened. I've added this core exercise class, and the Hot Power Yoga on Wednesday's to shake my body up. I've also added five minutes to my cardio. Tony and I have also taken a few walks at night. There's nothing else I can do...but work hard and wait for my body to let go of that fat!

I received an email from my friend yesterday regarding a recent post I made: "I'm heading to Hot Power Yoga....wish me luck...the chubby, uncoordinated, inflexible girl is doing something she would only do as a skinny girl! "

" Kimmy if you speak that way about yourself, the universe is listening...and you will always be the 'chubby, undoordinated, inflexible girl'. You of all people should know this?! I don't need to preach to you about this, as you are the one who taught it to me. However, like any good teacher...you need a gentle reminder too. Change your thoughts, change your journey and change your life!"

She is right! The mind is a powerful tool, and the Universe is always listening. So I leave you on this great Friday, wishing you all a wonderful week-end. This healthy, beautiful, fit girl has got to go work-out! ;>

Kimmy

Stepping out of the Box

2009-11-18T10:02:00.002-05:00

I'm getting ready to STEP OUT OF THE BOX!

I'm heading to Hot Power Yoga....wish me luck...the chubby, uncoordinated, inflexible girl is doing something she would only do as a skinny girl!

Stepping out of the Box

2009-11-17T13:23:00.003-05:00

I've had time to reflect and think. I've gotten a few answers to my trainer's questions.

Reflecting, and getting stronger is really part of this journey too. Trying to balance parenting, a relationship, housework, school work and life is all part of it. Waiting for a better day to work-out, eat better is not going to happen. Learning to balance everything is key. I know I've said this before; however it is the key.

I also know that in order to have success, I must act like I am successful already. In other words, saying to myself; 'oh, when I am thin...I will run a 5k, I will go to yoga etc...' Kim! It's not going to happen if I don't do it now. Now is the time...Again, athletes think and act like athletes long before they reach their goals. Business people dress for success long before they reach the top. I clued in that us on a healthier lifestyle journey must do the same.

What does that mean for me? First of all, no more binging! On Sunday, I had an opportunity to binge (as Sunday is usually my day of rest, and treat). However, this Sunday I did a 45 minute (hard) cardio session. If I wanted to treat myself that night....working-out was a must. It completely worked in my favour.

I didn't eat as much
I made wiser 'treat' choices

In addition, I have come to realize that in order to be successful in this healthier lifestyle journey. You must do it for yourself. I realized that when I had reached my goal weight both times in the past, I did it for others. Eventually, piled the weight back on.

The first time as a teenager. My mother had promised me an entire new wardrobe if I could lose weight. I lost 80 lbs and won a prestigious award through TOPS (Taking Off Pounds Sensibly). I was the talk of my town. Everyone was so proud of me. Nonetheless, my Mom never came through on her promise. As you can imagine being a teenager, it's all about the clothes. Finally, for the first time in my life I could wear clothes that not only looked good, but fit good. I remember floating in my clothes. I ended up getting an after school job making pizza's for $ 4.00 an hour, saved and saved and bought some clothes. The biggest disappointment was the fact that I knew my mother had the money.

The second weight loss story, I've told many times on this blog. I lost over one hundred pounds, looked my best ever, only to have my hubby have an affair on me. The biggest betrayal of my life. To add fuel to the fire, the girl was not even good looking, or a 'good' person. However, my marriage is stronger than ever...and I look at this time as a blessing. We both learned valuable lessons from this time. My only one left: I can be healthy and fit and my hubby will still love me!

Anyhow, all this to babble about finding my truths. I've been watching allot of 'weight loss' programs these days. It was something Bob Harper (The Biggest Loser) said that really struck a nerve with me. He said something along the lines that if you want to really conquer your weight loss goals (because according to Dr. Oz only 5 % of those who attempt a weight loss journey actually succeed), you MUST STEP OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE. YOU MUST STEP OUT OF THE BOX.

That is a biggie for me! I know I have to do it. Tomorrow...I am stepping out of my box. I am going to attend a Hot Power Yoga. Now for me that is HUGE! First of all, I'm the most inflexible human on earth. Secondly, balance and coordination are not my strong suit. Lastly, I am still big. Walking into a class full of 'Yoga lites' is not something I look forward too. One must do, what one must do. Attempting to do Yoga at home, is not working for me. So I must step out of the box.

Stepping out of the Box means living my truth!

Thinking...

2009-11-11T12:19:00.004-05:00

Just wanted to come here today and quickly blog. I have an exam tonight, so I have to go study.

I stepped on the scale this morning, and it's not good. I'm stuck. It has been fluctuating between 204-208 lbs. Notice the 4 lbs? If the 4lbs would go in the other direction: I'd be at the 200 lb! The mind is a powerful tool. My brain is keeping me in the 200's. Perhaps even my heart.

Thank you for your kind words Kimberley and Joania. You are both right...I can do this! I am grateful for your love and support. I'm feeling all sorts of emotions, perhaps the stress of my exam is clouding my thoughts right now. So before I go further, I'll be back in a few days with clear intentions.

Rob Lagana sent me a message:
"What's your fear ? Tell yourself the truth and when you do, ask yourself if that's the truth, then tell yourself the truth again. Remember how your body felt, just before you wanted to eat those foods. What did you feel ? Sadness, Anger, Anxiety... I know it's not a good feeling that you felt, because those foods don't promote wellness. Think about how you truly felt, and don't dismiss it, conquer it with LOVE.You deserve it !"

Usually, I have the answer for everything. I don't have an answer for that...I really need to think about it. Because the first thing that came to my mind was:
JUNK FOOD SUNDAY!!!! GET IT ALL IN>>>MONDAY IS IN TWO HOURS! :)

Surely, not the answer I'm looking for. More importantly, that's the attitude that got me in this mess in the first place! On a serious note, the numbers on the scale don't lie, and that is not funny!

Going to think...and think this through. I'll be back....

Kimmy

A Mental Block and a Strategy

2009-11-09T13:46:00.004-05:00

So I'm heading to the 100's and I'm facing a mental block, I can feel it. After all, it will be the first time in 4 years, I'm back in the 100's. The big thing is that the last time I was in the 100's, and started to look good again for the first time in my life, my hubby lost interest in me and our marriage went downhill. So this is a BIGGIE for me.

I'm trying to assert myself that I can have the best of both worlds; be thin, healthy and my hubby!

My hubby and I have talked it over immensely since this is a mental issue of mine (most likely one of the reason's I packed back the weight on). We've resolved those issues, at least he did. It's still weighs (pardon the pun) heavily on my heart and at the back of my mind.

I'll be totally honest with you all. Yesterday, I had an amazing day (day!). I did weight training and cardio. Eating was right on. I also went for a long walk with my dear walking buddy Carolyn. However, once I got home...I just went on a binge. Binge? I ate

nibs (a lot)
chocolate (a lot)
chips
popcorn
cola

Why? Why do I do this to myself? I felt sick just typing that...

The 100's are around the corner. I know it. Nonetheless, I'm going to beat this. I want to be healthier and I AM going to be in the 100's so I can wear my rings again, and fit into pretty clothes, and just plain feel better.

I surrounded myself with a team of experts today. I joined Dr. Oz's, Jillian Michaels, Bob Harper, and Bob Green on Facebook and Twitter. I have to stay on track! No more sabotage!

Have a great week!
Kimmy

The Power of Healthy Eating

2009-11-06T14:28:00.004-05:00

Back from my physician's with powerful information.

Back in May, my family doctor had informed me that my cholesterol levels were high. Normally, she would prescribe something as she was alarmed. I was morbidly obese. My blood pressure was high and so was my heart rate.

Here were my cholesterol levels:

CHOL (Total Cholesterol)

5.19 and lower is good 6.14

TG (Triglycerides--another form of fat in your blood )

2.29 and lower is good 3.83

HDL (good) cholesterol--helps keep cholesterol from building up in the arteries )

1.3 - 99999 is good .90

My blood pressure was also high as well as my heart rate.

Also, my LDL goal (% risk for heart disease) was HIGH. People in this category usually suffer a heart attack or stroke within 10 years!!! I am only 36 years old...that was reality in the face!

So I hooked up with Rob Lagana and made some serious lifestyle changes. I also met with Bruce Bonner and further made more improvements in my diet.

Here are today's results only after changing my lifestyle for six months: NO MEDS!

May 11 November 6

CHOL

6.14 (High)

5.00 (Perfect!)

TG

3.83 (High)

1.21 (Perfect!)

HDL

.90 (Low, not good as this is the good cholesterol)

1.3 (Perfect!)

My risk target went from High to LOW! Amazing!

On the other hand, my blood pressure and heart rate were still on the high side. I know that the cause of it, is my anxiety levels and all that is going on in my house. It's always busy here and I stress myself out over having the perfect clean home, the nice dinner on the table, spending time with my kids, taking them to their activities, working-out, training, spending time with my husband, doing my school work etc...the constant to and fro of friends and visitor's at the door. It's getting to be to much for me and my body is telling me something.

Here is a sample of what I do to myself...it is now 3 pm.

I have one more bed to make
a bathroom to tidy
another load of laundry to do
dishwasher to empty
lunch for myself
pick-up Carmy at 4:30
Banking
Grocery store (for dinner)
A school assignment to work on
Cardio
Weight Training
Dinner
Clean-up

That is IF I have no interruptions.

Nonetheless, focus on the positive! I got an A+ from my physician today, and if it wasn't for H1N1 she said she would have given me a HIGH-FIVE! LOL

All this to show you the amazing power of healthy eating! You can change anything...just set your mind to it!

Breaking News!

2009-11-04T11:29:00.005-05:00

5 x

(5 lbs of Fat)

- 25 lbs!!!!

I took a peek at the scale today. I'm so happy I did. What a day to do it on: Happy Anniversary to us! (I'm having wine and Fratelli's tonight! :>)

So as I said before I was on the cusp of a major milestone breakthrough. I am there! 205 lbs is a major turning point for me.

In 2003-2004, I lost over a 100 lbs and reached my goal weight of 150 lbs. In the midst of a turmoiling year to say the least, I began the journey of gaining it back. When things settled in my life, I found myself at about 165-170 lbs. I was training with a new trainer, and when he made the moves on me...I quit. (I was never used to getting attention from men.) Then my hubby and I got back on the right track, and I began fertility treatment to try for our third child (after having lost one). As anyone who has ever done hormone treatment: weight gain is inevitable. I packed on some more weight...but I didn't care as my goal was to have another child. I got pregnant.

However, reality hit me when I stepped on the scale at the ob/gyn's office. I was four months pregnant and the scale read: 206 lbs! I was devastated. I was back in the 200's officially. I had mixed emotions as my pregnancy had had a few road bumps, and the baby's life was in jeopardy. So I closed my eyes, thanked God for my healthy baby and vowed to turn the page once again.

One year after the birth of my miracle baby Antonio, I set on the weight loss journey again. I had gained all of my weight back. It took me about a year and I was down to 205 lbs. I was in the groove, losing it slowly and working-out with a new trainer consistently. I had organized my time, and was on a new path. Then my huge cyst on my ovary came, then my hernia. It was November 2008; http://alightway.blogspot.com/2008/11/another-hurdle-on-my-journey.html. I had no choice but to stop working-out. I weighed 205 lbs - 207 lbs. Everything stopped. Lost, and frustrated...I piled back the weight on.

It has taken me an entire year, to get back to this point. I had surgery in May, and my recovery was very slow and painful. Nonetheless, lying on that couch with nothing to do but think, I envisioned finding myself back to 205 lbs and continuing the journey where I had left off.

I am here!!!!

Cheers!

Week 19!

2009-10-31T12:01:00.004-04:00

Great News!

I am down another pound! I'm a little nervous because I'm on the brink of turning a corner and reaching a major milestone for me. However, I'm excited in the weeks to come to share it with you all. I won't breathe another word of it, until it happens.

Kim: - 1 lb

Total: -23 lbs

Tony:

Now, for the sake of anything. Tony is not happy that all his progress is being reported on my blog. LOL He's not so much on the inspiration page as I am. So...shh... (in other words, don't tell him you read it on here!...a little bird told ya!)

Tony has now lost a total of:

*huge drum roll

*Another 5 lbs gone!

Total weight loss:

- 51 lbs

So very proud of him. The thing with Tony, he is doing it all by watching what he eats and making sure he has his breakfast in the morning. Amazing what eating healthy and clean does.

H1N1 Vent

2009-10-29T13:56:00.003-04:00

Okay, so all over the news...it 's mass panic. Get your shot, these are the symptoms, take precautions, be prepared etc... etc.. etc...

I have been debating on and off whether to vaccinate my kids or not. As of right now, I'm a BIG NO!

this vaccination has not been tested. Who's to say in a year from now there is not any complications due to the ingredients of the vaccination
the rush into production, get it out there
I keep thinking isn't the human body better off fighting this thing and the immune system learning to cope? Remember the penicillin backlash?
In Canada, the vaccine has adjuvant, mercury. Maybe it has the same amount equal to a can of tuna. But, am I not injecting that into my three year old's vein?

One minute, I am "YES"...the next "NO". There is no guarantee the vaccination will even work. Why? They don't know. It hasn't been tested. Those who are getting vaccinated now; are the guinea pigs.

If this H1N1 could get any more ridiculous, it does. So my son Carmelo has been fighting a viscous cough. Like anything else, I don't believe in sending my children to school sick. I loathe those perfect attendance awards. Don't come and tell me that no child ever gets sick!? Disease is spread by contact with others. If people kept their kids home when they were sick: less chance of others getting it, and disease spreading, in my humble opinion.

Back to Carmelo. This morning he woke-up with every symptom of H1N1. Headache, vomiting, fever, lethargic (the kid peed on the bathroom floor because he thought he was at the toilet!). Of course, with all the mass panic going around. We all panicked!

We called tele-health. Do to the overwhelming flood of calls, a nurse will return my call in: 8 hours. Unbelievable.

I called the school to inquire about the absenteeism rate. They could not disclose that information to me. Just know, it is high. Any confirmed cases of H1N1? Can't disclose that either. Great! Be sure to print off 800+ letters though letting us all know there's a case of head lice in the school!!!!!

I called the pediatrician's office. Apparently, we are to treat it like any other flu. There is no swabbing, or tests to be done. Assume, it's just a flu. If he's symptoms get worse...bring him to CHEO (our ER). "What do you mean get worse?" If he has trouble breathing, or his hands and lips start to turn blue. If he's fever get's higher than 104. Thanks.

The government and health officials have been preparing for this flu pandemic since the spring...with their advertising and hand-outs. Telling us to 'be prepared'. You aren't even prepared to test those who have all the symptoms in the first place to confirm the H1N1. But, you are telling me to be prepared?! Then, when we are 'confirming' ourselves through symptoms, you then advise me to treat it like a regular 'flu'.????

Unbelievable.

Make Time Your Friend

2009-10-26T11:55:00.002-04:00

Great article that I had to share on complete body balance.
psst...it promises less wrinkles and no need for botox :>

http://www.oprah.com/article/spirit/emotionalhealth/20091021-orig-best-aging-secret

Humbled I am

2009-10-22T11:33:00.006-04:00

One of my new favourite sayings, "Like everything else, when you ask...the Universe comes a running. The universe will knock and knock at your door, the universe will ring the door bell and finally if nobody answers, the universe will break the door down. It's best to answer on the first knock."

The other day, I blogged about my foul mood as of late. The other night my neighbour came for tea. I told her how I'd been feeling lately. She too had been feeling out of sorts. The change of season really brings out the worst in all of us. However, being the wise soul she is, she quickly retorted with, 'but we are healthy, our children are too, our husband's love us...we have so much to appreciate...we must focus only on that." With that she continued...the story and I am somewhat ashamed of my pompous behaviour.

A woman we know through neighbours and family is a breast cancer survivor. She is single (her hubby left her for her best friend) and has three children. She now stays at home and babysits her grandchild. She hasn't been feeling well lately. She recently found out her cancer has returned. Her chances of survival, are not very good and her doctor has advised her to get all her affairs in order. Surgery is the best option, and if successful chemo will follow. That is a big IF due to the location of the tumour. With all this, she has asked that her surgery be postponed until after Christmas so that she can spend this time with her loved ones. The doctors agreed, surgery is booked for January 1.

She used to have it 'all', beautiful home, jewelry, fancy cars, and a house full of friends all the time. Then something changed, she got sick and the lifestyle changed. It all tumbled so quickly, even the 'friends' can hardly spare a 'hello' when they run into each other. She boasts today, that it was an illusion. Material items do not bring happiness. It is not what matters in life. Do not be fooled. All that can be gone in an instant. It is who you are and what you stand for that is lasting. A lesson she has learned well. Appreciate what you have, and don't take it for granted. She now truly appreciates what life is really about.

Throughout it all, she continues to cook for her boy's soccer team, and is at every game to cheer them on. She takes her daughter shopping. Always a smile on her face, a kiss and a warm hug to greet you. She spends her days, with her children, and grandchild. She no longer worries about cleaning, laundry, having her nails done and her hair perfect etc...instead she focuses on being, and spending as much quality time as she can.

Something we can all learn from her. That my friends is strength! This woman emanates courage and love. What an inspiration she is. I bow to her, and pray for her to beat this. Miracles do happen.

I am humbled...no more complaining for me. Life is too precious to be sitting around being angry, bitter and resentful. We must live each day to the fullest, happily with gratitude. We never know what life has to offer us, however if today was my last day, tomorrow I would regret not having lived it with joy.

I'm off to go pick-up Diodato from school as he just finished running his first 5k (So proud of you buddy! You beat Mommy to it! ...however I'll challenge his time of 41 minutes.) Then, I'm coming home to colour and read with Antonio before he is off to Oxford.

Humbled I am,

Kimmy

Blowing-off Steam with the Shift.

2009-10-20T16:00:00.009-04:00

Last week, I blogged about my encounter with Bruce Bonner. How my body scan showed intense levels of stress. Especially from my heart, heart chakra and emotional state. Be it, I am an emotional person. There is lot's of resentment hiding behind my gracious smile and sweet green eyes.

After pondering my scan, I realized that I am a moment away from losing my cool. I have zero patience with my children. My hubby gets snappy answers. I answer the phone like it is a mortal enemy disturbing my peace on the other line. In addition, I am a moments away from crossing the line with some who have been deserving some medicine of their own. I am short of breath. My skin is red like my energy. My eyes are throwing daggers. My body, my mind and my spirit has reached a boiling point.

You see, I have a major pet peeve with 'injustices' and 'unfairness'. I cringe at people who have superiority complexes. Sometimes, I want to just go over there and knock them down to ground level. We are all after all equals, nobody is better or above anyone. I don't understand how someone could laugh at another one's misfortune. How some feel it is okay to mistreat others or even how they treat my children. I seem to be on some type of spiritual high horse, and for that I apologize. I'm trying my best to control myself. Seems like I am being tested to and forth. I've really had enough!

I always try to take the high road. It's embedded in my spirit. I always try to stay on the side that karma will take care of things. I always listen to our brother Jesus who taught us all to turn the other cheek. The glass for me is always more than half full anyhow.

With every pound I am losing (AGAIN!), I am uncovering some deep emotional wounds. I realize more and more that as we grow older, we really start to weed out the 'good' and the 'bad' people in our lives. Most people come into our lives to help us grow along our journey. But, why do people have to torture you along the way? What is it with that?!

Why are people so mean and vindictive? Why are some some evil? Why are some people so selfish and egocentric? I just don't get it! Someone once told me that what you see in people is usually what you don't see in yourself. I disagree with my entire being and soul!

So when Bruce walked me through my scan, I had a huge 'AHA' moment. There staring me in the face were my issues, embedded deep within my body and affecting it on every cell level. What could I do? How could I heal this part of myself. Surely, I cannot go on being so angry and bitter. It goes against who I am, and who I aspire to be.

Like everything else, when you ask...the Universe comes a running. The universe will knock and knock at your door, the universe will ring the door bell and finally if nobody answers, the universe will break the door down. It's best to answer on the first knock.

The answer came in the form of a quote from Sonia Choquette: "Resentments and old angers keep you from tuning into your vibes. What must you forgive and release? It is time to take an honest look at this question don't you think?"

So I took the time and journaled my private thoughts, and my anger at certain people, situations and such. I feel better. I could have posted it all here, however I would be adding to the negativity of it all. I choose for it to stop with me, and that makes me happy. I am not in control of what other people do, how they act or how they choose to view others or things. I am in control of how I react; and that needs to be in accordance to my beliefs and my spirit.

What I do know is that the universe has its own way of shifting the balance over the course of time so that all things are ultimately fair. We can trust in this process and understand that karma actually exists. In time, there is balance.
We just have to forgive, move forth in our journey taking the lessons that are brought forth, turning the page.

So I'm releasing my anger. I'm letting go because it is not serving me. Whatever happens, happens. People make their choices and I must make mine according. The steam has been blown-off, the shift to balance and happiness begins. This is what my kids, my hubby, my true family, my genuine friends and I deserve. The universe will balance everyone else in the end, so that I don't have to.

Ah....!
Kimmy

Week 17!

2009-10-17T13:02:00.001-04:00

Kim: -1 lb

Tony: -1 lb

We are heading down...down in the right direction!

:>

Shifting Towards Balance

2009-10-16T13:13:00.004-04:00

What is it to be perfectly balanced? Is there such a thing? Equilibrium of the body seems so simple, yet so complicated.

Yesterday, I took the advice of my in-laws (Debbie and Dino...thank you again), and ventured to meet a man named Bruce at Back in Balance. It was an enlightening moment of enlightening moments.

Here I was thinking, I was on the right track (which I am, in case you are wondering), and that I was pretty balanced with my mind, body, soul connection. However, the body scan told a different story. The body scan told the truth without rose coloured glasses.

In fact, I am very unbalanced (inside!). My metabolism is low (which I kind of clued in), I am dehydrated (6-8 glasses just isn't enough for my body), my digestive system is stressed, I have a mineral deficiency and an essential fatty acid deficiency. Whoa! What does this all mean?

For one, it means that even though I am steering my body in the right direction: eating right, drinking fluids and working-out. The inside, tells a different tale. At a cellular level, my body is attempting to cope with the change, however, years and years of mistreating it has created some imbalance, stress and deficiencies. Sitting there listening to the results, the only thing I could think of was: 'wow, my poor body...what have I done!?" It's as plain as English. You cannot deny the results, however you can make the further shift to improve your body's equilibrium.

Most importantly right now for me, I am significantly deficient in chromium.

"Chromium helps the body regulate metabolism, insulin and blood sugar levels. Chromium helps the body lose weight by stimulating enzymes that metabolize glucose for energy. It plays an important role in the liver synthesis of fatty acids (burns fat). Chromium helps the body's metabolism after the food is in the blood stream. Chromium helps the pancreas and other organs keep all of this in balance. This is why chromium is so very important to our bodies.
When our body is deficient in chromium, it takes twice as long for insulin to remove glucose from the blood. This slows down the whole sugar glucose process causing the whole body to become more reactive to every other thing that is happening within it. Chromium enhances insulin performance and glucose utilization. It also helps to carry proteins in the body. "

Dr. Lynn Braught, (2009) Why do we need Chromium? from http://www.staytuned.ws/articles/chromium.html

AHA! That explains so much. For years of being on metformin, progesterone, this hormone pill, and that one...just to see no change. I got off the meds a long time ago...and nothing worked for me. Not to mention, all that frustration at working-out, stepping on the scale and seeing the needle just jiggle a millimetre. Just looking at a chocolate bar and gaining weight. No wonder. Yesterday, something clicked. The lightbulb went off, and it struck me to my core.

So I'm on supplements, and crossing my fingers. Further, this is day 2 of the supplements, and I can already feel the positive shift. In addition, my diet-nutrition is right on. I am dairy sensitive (as I suspected) and will have to make an effort to stay away from dairy. No soy either. The almond breeze as recommended by Rob is perfect.

There are many other issues/tendencies that were mentioned and I'll blogg and inform as I go. The next few weeks will tell the tale of the chromium deficiency.

As for everything else, I'm awakened from my turkey coma. Back on track and looking forward to a new balanced me.

Take care of yourself because balance is everything!

Kimmy

Turkey Blues

2009-10-13T13:23:00.005-04:00

Today, my plan was to blog about how am now feeling; twenty pounds lighter, and more active.

However, thanks to my whirlwind of a week-end, I ended up being awake all last night...sick to my stomach. Serves me right. I always promised myself that this blog would be the raw truth. As I've posted before, serves nobody including myself if I blog half-truths, and lies. Besides, I know fully more than anyone about liars, and scammers they are my pet peeves. We won't go there. Being truthful to myself and everyone is part of this wondrous journey. Life is not all perfect moments...and to share this truth with you all, makes my journey all worthwhile.

Anyhow, here is my list of what I ate this week-end....blah...I'm sick just typing it. (Oh...and Rob...if you are reading this; stop reading now! )

Saturday

coffee
banana
roasted chicken
salade
italian wedding soup
fried zuccini
veal marsala
whole wheat linguini alfredo
2 glasses white wine
cafe latte
tiramisu

Sunday

fibre one cereal
coffee
rice
assorted cold canapes & hors d'oeuvres
french cut lamb chops
bruschetta
olive bread ( lot's of it!)
prosciutto ribbon with melon
buffalo mozzarella and tomato trio
italian cured delicacies
fazzoletti fiorentina with ricotta and spinach in rose sauce
casalinga with veal and beef in tomato sauce
baby green salad with parmesean crisp
Chateaubriand, duchess potatoes and carrots
lindor chocolates
champagne
red wine
cranberry vodka with a splash of orange juice
cannoli, cannoli and more cannoli
italian and french pastries

Monday

Fibre one cereal with almond breeze milk (off to a great start!)
coffee
white rice
turkey (lot's)
mashed potatoes (lot's)
gravy
stuffing
basmati rice
strawberry cheesecake
strawberry cheesecake

I am stuffed! Reading through this list...no wonder I am sick! Talk about shocking your body! This is how I felt all the time, stuffed, drained and sick. My body is working overtime to digest all this extra calorie food. I am sluggish. I am running a fever, and thinking I may have the flu; I'm only fooling myself.

I'm looking forward to being well again to go to the gym, and get back that wonderful energy of last week. Amazing what a three day binge can do! Eh?! Last week, I treated myself to a manicure, pedicure and a new hair cut. I felt so great in those 'new' jeans. I started to feel like my beautiful self again. I'm still on the wagon, even if I took a little detour. I've always said; "part of the journey is falling off and getting back on again".

I want to thank all my fellow bloggers for their love and support both public and private. Joania! You are amazing girl...I'm honoured to be in your company! 266...I love your blog and look forward to reading more about your journey too!

Lastly, the other night Tony looked at me and said: "wow, you are so beautiful...you glow!" That makes the journey so worthwhile! :>

Sometimes in life, we need to take a detour just to appreciate the path we are meant to take.

Take care of yourself, and be well!

Kimmy

Gratitude on Thanksgiving

2009-10-12T12:26:00.007-04:00

I am so blessed, and for that I am
great full (grateful)!

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

Whew! Is it Tuesday Yet?

So much to be thankful, and grateful for. It's been a whirlwind of a week-end. Nonetheless, I really feel amazing with my 20 lb loss. I feel so alive and rejuvinated again. I know I still have more to lose (60 lbs to go). But, I'm feeling like I've turned things around. I will blog about this tomorrow.

Saturday, I had lunch with a girlfriend of mine (in those skinnier size 14 jeans that had been in my closet with the tags for five years!), and I made some good choices. Dinner was a different story. Tony and I headed out to Fratelli's (one of my favourite restaurants besides Mamma Teresa's) We had wine, to celebrate our time together; cheers! Then it was all down hill from there. I will focus, however on the good choices. I chose not to have any bread. I went with whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta with my fettuccine Alfredo and veal Marsala. Tony and I shared a tiramisu with our latte.

Sunday, we attended a royal Italian baptism (photos). We literally ate from 4 pm until 10 pm. It was delicious. Let's just say, I am stuffed with cannoli!
Today, I'm making my boys, turkey with all the trimmings, my famous homemade Caesar salad and strawberry cheesecake.

Thanksgiving!

I love Thanksgiving! It's one of my favourite holidays. Don't get me wrong, I am grateful everyday. Nonetheless, I love to reflect on this day, say a prayer to the heaven's and being truly grateful for all that I am graced with in my life. It's been a roller coaster of a year. With both my babies having surgery (Carmy, it looks like will be having another surgery (hopefully that's the issue with his lump on his testicle), in the near future), my father-in-law's massive heart attack and long road to recovery. In addition, having my hernia surgery and not being able to even get off the couch on Easter to make my family a decent Easter meal. We've come a long way...and for that I won't stop believing in the grace of life.

Today, I opened this blog to see that a fellow blogger Joania had given me an award. Wow! That made my day (and also gave me the kick to realize...ummm...tomorrow back to eating well, and working-out! :) ) Thank you, Joania! I am so appreciative of this award. If you want to be truly
inspired: http://joaniajourney.blogspot.com/.

Finally, if I could leave you on this beautiful Thanksgiving day with inspiration of my own. As I listen to "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey. Don't stop believing in yourself. Be the change you want to be. Eat well, be well, and take care of yourself. You are worthy of living your best life, and being your best. It's starts with you....now. Love yourself. Have gratitude and be kind.
You will love yourself more, and the world will love you back more in return.
May heaven shine down upon you, and guide you through the road ahead.

Thank you for reading my blog, and following my journey.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Week 16!!!!

2009-10-10T10:28:00.003-04:00

Kim: - 1 lb

Tony: -2 lbs

N.B.:

I've hit a milestone!!! 20 lbs gone and only 10.1 pounds to onderland! In addition, I fit into a size 14 jean. I've had these brand new expensive jeans for over five years, they never fit. At one point, I had a six inch gap to reach the zipper. Yesterday, they slipped on like a glove!!

Dr.Oz, 100 lbs lost and the Plateau.

2009-10-09T12:48:00.003-04:00

Great article by Dr. Oz. He explains in very simple terms, how your body loses the weight, what happens when you hit a 'Plateau' and what you have to do to get over that 'Plateau'.
Also, great inspiration from these twins who lost 100 or so pounds each.

(click on the link below to watch the video)

We Did IT!!!

2009-10-06T09:32:00.004-04:00

If any of you have never signed up or done the CIBC Run for the Cure, I urge you to sign-up today! I have never experienced anything like it. I am so proud of my boys, my niece Gabriella and my nephews Luca and Nico. We did it!

I will be very honest, I am not a morning person. Realizing that we had to be at the run site for 7 ish on a Sunday morning was not my cup of tea. Moreover, trying to convince my boys that they too would have to be up by 6 am, was not going to be easy. However, they were great about the entire thing when I told them, 'they'd be getting up for their Nanna's".

My hubby lost both his Moms' to Breast Cancer. His biological Mom, Caterina, passed away when he was 8 years old. He lost his step-mom, Esterina, a few years ago. So he had to re-live this horrible disease twice in his lifetime, losing two wonderful women.

So we woke-up Sunday morning to fog and rain. However, all the rain in the world would not prevent us from doing what we had to do that day. Looking back, I'm so glad we did. We decided to take the bus to the run site (great idea by the way!)...so here we were standing at the station waiting for the bus, when suddenly out of nowhere people starting to join us, all in the CIBC Run for the Cure hope tees. Seems we weren't the only one's with this great idea. Anyhow, our true moment of the cause came when a young father showed up with his two children. Written on the back of the man's tee was: "I'm running for my wife", on the boy's: "I'm running for my Mom" and the little girl's said: "I'm running for my Mommy". Everyone sorta looked at each other, running for our own loved one's and causes, however we all felt the emotion of the moment. With tears strolling down my face, I looked proudly at my fourteen year old who also had read the shirts...and we all glanced at each other knowing that this was the reason we were all doing the run. You could hear a pin drop. Everyone had tears streaming down their face. The clouds broke and the sun began to shine down upon us.

The poignant moments would continue as we boarded the bus. Here we were on a public transportation bus loaded with everyone running for the cure that day. It was just a sea of white tees with the breast cancer ribbon etched with the words "hope, espoir". Unbelievable! Every stop, after stop the people were lined up going to the run for the cure. It was stirring, moving and emotional. To be a part of it all...was such an amazing feeling!

Once we arrived at the run site, the energy of the moment was contagious. The adrenaline was rushing through us all as we made our way to the start line.

Through the line we could see the names, the causes and the reasons why people had chosen to walk/run. It was incredibily powerful, words cannot describe it. One guy did a portage and carried his canoe the entire 5 K with his loved one's names etched on the canoe. We also seen many survivors, and many woman currently battling the disease. It was poignant moment after poignant moment. It was an honour to walk 5 km with my boys amoung these heroes.

Together, Ottawa raised 1.5 million dollars. It was a day I will never forget. When I arrived home, my hubby kissed me and thanked me for doing this for his moms', it was my honour. Next year he vouched to walk with us all. Together, as a family...we will support the cure for this disease that has touched so many lives.

To leave you all on a happy note, I will post a few conversations I had with Carmelo along our 5 k walk. Diodato, Gabriella ran ahead of us! Luca and Nico joined in, but they ran too. So it was Carmy and I the whole way. He held my hand (rather squeezed) tightly for dear life...afraid to lose me in the thousands of walkers.

Of course, it took about fifteen minutes for us to go through the start line, as there was so many people.

Carmy- "...wow...are we done yet?"

Me- " Look up..." as I'm pointing to the start sign..."we are at the starting line now."

Carmy- "YOU've got to be KIIIIIIIIIDING meeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! How long is this walk anyhow?"

-------

Carmy- "OKAY! We've been walking for longer than 1 k...you said! It was to my school and back...I've now walked from my school back again ten times at LEAST!!!!!"

( We walked the 5 k...)

Oh...and upon seeing the men pulling the buggies...I guess in case someone is unable to finish.

Carmy- "hey...MOM>.>>>tell them I want a ride!"

Me- (trying to whisper) "Carmelooooo, those are for the people who are sick and cannot finish the walk"

Carmy- "EXAAAAAAAAACTLY!!! I AM SICK>>>I am finished...and I can't walk anymore...if he doesn't believe you...pull out five bucks and pay HIM!"

----------

Me- "Carmelo! I see the finish line"

Carmy- "Thank the LORD! I did it...I actually did it...okay...I'm doing this...I did it...yahoo for me...I did it."

Carmy- "hey MOM...can we do this every year?"

:>

2009-10-03T12:41:00.003-04:00

Our family's CIBC Run For the Cure is tomorrow. Pictures to follow...and maybe I'll even 'run' into Joania, a fellow popular blogger, inspiration, also from Ottawa.

Go TEAM Pink Nocita!

Week 15!

2009-10-03T12:38:00.002-04:00

Kim: - 1 lb

Tony: - o lb
I'm inching my way closer to ONEDERLAND. Eleven pounds to go!

Time to Tighten the Belt: a Meeting with our Trainer

2009-10-01T10:24:00.004-04:00

Last night, Tony and I had a quick sit down with Rob (www.laganafitness.com) and we discussed a few things.
I spoke to Rob briefly about my frustrations with lack of weight loss compared to Tony. I know...I know...he's a man, he has more weight to lose blah, blah, blah. But, as my eight year old Carmelo would surely say if he was in my place; "come on fricken all ready!"

Here I am, eating my cereal with almond breeze, drinking one coffee a day with my stevia, making sure to drink all my water, having snacks, and eating my meals 4 hours apart and especially making sure not to eat before going to bed. I'm doing my cardio and adding in some yoga.

Tony is having his protein shake in the morning if I make it for him. Skipping lunch (that's right Rob! I'm outing him), having sweets at work, thanks to those sabotaging girls at work! Plus, only drinking a tad of water. NOT working-out. Having a crappy protein bar for "lunch". Plus, having a bowl of cereal at night with MILK!

The difference? Tony loses $@@@@ a zillion pounds....Kim? ...the scale decides to budge down a small notch!!! As Jillian would say on The Biggest Loser: "F@@@ing BULL@@T MAN!!!"

Okay, I'm finished venting. As Rob made something very clear to me (I heard ya Rob...loud and clear). I need to weight train! I repeat: I need to weight train!
As Rob explained (and I already knew this...but it selectively skipped my mind): Men naturally have more muscle, therefore when they eat right (apparently Tony is on the right track still) they lose weight faster and more efficiently. Woman are not as muscular, therefore MUST compensate by weight-training. Cardio is NOT enough. If I might add to Rob's thoughts on this, from a woman's perspective; woman are built to carry some fat and less muscle due to nature's way (pregnancy especially). That is why once a month when Auntie Rose pays her visit, we tend to gain a few pounds or not lose weight that week. It's the body's natural instinct to prepare in case of pregnancy.

I know I am 100% accountable for not doing my weight-training. After much reflection last night, I am one hundred percent committed to this weight loss journey. Rob has advised me to:
4x a week weight train
3x a week cardio (30 mins)
plus
yoga when possible.

I came up with a great solution. I brought up my mat, free weights, ball etc...from the cruddy basement (a bonus of having a brand new home) and placed them in the living room. Twenty or so minutes in the morning while my three year old has his breakfast is all it's going to take. I have no excuses other than I am the excuse. I have also added a new side page detailing my work-out calendar so that I can be held accountable for not working-out (feel free to kick me when I'm not keeping up!) It begins today!

Tony's a Gambling Man!

2009-09-27T11:56:00.002-04:00

Trying to get back on that wagon can be very difficult. Tony and I decided to put a spin on it and get a little competition going. Nothing like a good challenge to get things moving again, the bets were on!

Tony: had to lose 8 lbs, hitting 269 lbs would mean he would win one week of foot massages from me.

Kim: had to lose 4 lbs, hitting 209 lbs would mean she would win a new work-out outfit from Lululemon.

(note the male/female priorities here! LOL)

So guess who won!?

Tony hit 269 lbs yesterday for a total loss of 43 lbs! I am so proud of him, even though I'm disappointed in my weight loss. I've been the one working-out, eating well (better than Tony and drinking my water.) However, we are on this path to support each other.

So cheers to Tony and his pampered feet!

Week 14!

2009-09-27T11:28:00.006-04:00

Kim: - 1 lb

Tony: -3 lbs

Totals:

Kim: - 18 lbs

Tony: - 43 lbs

Carmy!

2009-09-25T12:28:00.003-04:00

top third 'blog' in the Ottawa area!

"Mom...if you'd blog more about me, you'd be in...

first place!"

- Carmy ( I love that kid!)

Confessions!

2009-09-25T12:07:00.003-04:00

Tony's Confession

Tony weighed himself this morning and he is down another 1 lb. I proceeded to tell him that I've been recording his weight loss progress...and after a long pause: "I have something to tell you." -Great I thought, he's been lying about his weight loss.

As a matter of fact, his starting weight was much greater than he had originally told me. He was embarrassed. However, his current weight remains the same. So he has lost alot more weight than I've been recording!

Wow!!! So he had originally told me (and I will only post this today...and then perhaps as we go further down the road) 303 lbs was his starting weight, when in fact his last recorded weight at his physician's was 312 lbs. This morning he weighed in at 272.0 lbs for a total weight loss of ....

40. 0 lbs!!!!!!!!!!

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

******Edit:

I received an email question regarding Tony's weight loss. Tony has lost this weight WITHOUT any working-out (unless you consider golfing...riding the golf cart a work-out...than he's worked out more than a top bodybuilder! LOL). Tony has had two back surgeries, and in order for him to begin working out, he believes he needs to take more weight off. He carries his weight all in his stomach, so it is a HUGE load on his back.

How did he do it?
By eating three healthy meals a day. Following Rob Lagana's (www.langanafitness.com) advice. By ruling out sugar, eliminate ALL carbonated drinks and white carbs etc... Tony has taken control over his diet in a natural, healthy way. The results are showing off on the scale weekly!

Seatbelted to the Wagon!

2009-09-24T13:54:00.004-04:00

Hello all!

Hope this finds you all drinking your water, eating well and taking the time to move that body.
Things are always so busy around here. My most famous line: a good busy! I am blessed to be surrounded by such great people. Sometimes it can be very overwhelming, and every now and then I just have to say to myself; that's what life is about! I usually like to keep to myself. I grew-up quite lonely and was always alone. Thus, I have been created into this girl who enjoys quiet and peace. With three boys, a rowdy hubby and a string of amazing friends, neighbours etc...it's difficult to have moments of silence! Add in fall TV and creeping facebook regularly...and you've got quite the busy life! LOL

Now try fitting in a weight loss routine in that! I've come to realize that there will never be a day where I will wake-up and there will be no laundry, the kitchen will be immaculate, the beds will be made, no errands to run, payroll to do, neighbours and friends popping in for a visit, my nieces calling for some advice etc...Getting along on this journey really means learning to incorporate that healthy lifestyle into the jam of it all. It's about balance, it really is. It's not an easy task. But, it is do able. It just takes patience, perseverance and persistence. (Now if those ladies at Joseph's could just STOP bringing some sweets in for my hubby...I could get him fully on the band wagon too!)

Most recently, my brother and his wife came to visit. So I had a week of juggling, school work for me, homework with my boys, activities for the kids, dinners, and visits from our friends and neighbours. I managed quite well except for the healthy lifestyle part. In my life, I'm always the first thing to take a back burner. That's why I look the way that I do. Sometimes, I wish I had more time in the day. What it essentially comes down too is balance. Thank God for PVR!

My favourite show to watch besides 24, Brothers & Sisters, Melrose Place, Dancing with the Stars, Oprah and Dr. Oz (to name a few!) is THE BIGGEST LOSER! Now that is inspiration! If you need a tune-up, it's surely the show to watch. Albeit I will admit, working out 8 hours a day is highly never within my reach as a Supermom (ha ha ha). I figure if they can squeeze in all that time, than I have really no excuse for not getting in half and hour to an hour.

So I am off to the gym...after I fold the load of laundry in the dryer, throw in the laundry from the washer into the dryer and empty out the dishwasher. Tony and I have a major event upcoming October 11th. My goal is to be 4-5 lbs lighter. That's not going to happen sitting here typing away all my complaints and excuses regarding my busy life! In the end, I'm seatbelted to the wagon no matter what happens.

Take care of yourself and ALWAYS make time for a healthy lifestyle!
xox
Kimmy

Dr. Oz and Sugar Addiction

2009-09-23T14:34:00.007-04:00

"Sugar is sweet - but the results are not!"

-Dr. Mehmet Oz

(click on the link below for Dr. Oz's tips on

beating sugar addiction)

Change is in the AIR!

2009-09-15T16:01:00.002-04:00

I've noticed some changes happening on my body

and wanted to share with everyone my progress:

My boobs are shrinking! Almost time for some new bras.
Underwear shopping is in my future. All my underwear are too big!
I can see muscles forming again! Welcome back!
Some clothes are fitting better and are quite loose.
An old pair of jeans that I had put away, they fit again!
Last year's fall jacket is WAY to big! (Strange though as I was the same weight as last year, however someone mentioned to me that I'm most likely losing FAT this time. Which makes a HUGE advantage on the body.
I have so much energy.

Week 12!!!

2009-09-12T13:10:00.002-04:00

Kim: - 1 lbs!!!!!!!!!!!!! (OH HAPPY HAPPY DANCE!!)

Tony: no change (Plateau? after 25 + lbs lost?)

Mantra

2009-09-11T12:54:00.002-04:00

"My body is my sanctity. It is my vehicle. I must respect it. I must feed it nutrious foods. I must nourish it with fresh water. I must exercise and move it. That is my gift to my body. In return, my body will carry me, sustain me and keep me vibrant so that I may live my best life."

With Love....Kimmy

News and Such...

2009-09-08T13:57:00.003-04:00

Refreshing Starbucks?

Okay, my trainer Rob has suggested a wonderful new refreshing drink. It's Starbucks and it's not expensive. Another bonus, low in calories! It's a 'Venti shaken iced green tea" *no syrup. I highly recommend it!

CIBC Run for the CURE

In another news, I've signed up our family for the CIBC Run for the Cure. I was first inspired to join in because of my altruistic niece Jessica whom at age 25 not only does the run, but also volunteer's her time for much fundraising and events for the cause. Tony lost both his Moms' to breast cancer. What better way to teach your children that we can make a difference in this world?! In addition, there is so much more to life than television, video games, and sports. Life is not only short, it is precious. Together we can make a positive impact. I find it an imperative lesson for my children to learn. So I signed up our family and entered us as a team: Pink Nocita's. Tony's two niece's are also going to join us and our family as we walk the 1K in honour of Caterina and Esterina.
https://www.cibcrunforthecure.com/html/personal_page.asp?track=3475513&languageid=1

Lifestyle...

In the weight loss world, seems we are on a hold. I've made a few changes and I'm sure it's had an impact on things. So I'm back on Almond Breeze in my cereal and coffee. I think that I must be sensitive to dairy as when I switch to skim milk...I don't lose weight. The day or two after I've been on Almond Breeze and cut out dairy from my diet; the scale starts to plummet! I wanted to experiment a bit and that is the conclusion I have come upon. I'm also going to make a greater effort to go to the gym, as well as continue walking with my club. Maybe the walk isn't enough cardio. So I'll try that for a few weeks and see where I go from there. I am still motivated, and on the wagon. That is a plus. I'm looking to be in the low 200's (- 210) so that is my goal. Rob is coming to visit this week and hopefully pump us right back to where we need to be to kick start the journey again.

That's all for now. I'm off to go do my business writing strategy school work.

Blessings to all!
Kimmy

Weigh-In 11!

2009-09-08T13:51:00.002-04:00

Blah?!

Kim: 0

Tony: 0

You Can Hear a Pin Drop!

2009-09-01T13:26:00.002-04:00

Can you hear that? No? Me either! Stillness, quiet, peace, whatever you want to call it, you can hear a pin drop right now in my house. AH!

The boys have officially gone back to school and without to much hiccups. Carmelo has started grade 3. That little guy is lucky. All summer long he hoped he would get Mr. Armstrong for grade 3. With three grade three's this year, his chances were 33 %. I'd bet on his horse anyday! Guess who Carmelo has? Yep...Mr. Armstrong who according to Carmelo personally asked to have him in his class. Carmelo was even welcomed back to school by the janitor with a hug and a 'hey Carmy! How was your summer buddy?! So good to see you back!"

Diodato started grade 9! Hard to believe I have a child in highschool. I had tears in my eyes yesterday morning as I seen my baby, now a big big boy leaving for school with his backpack over his shoulder, walking and talking with his friends and just glancing back to wave bye. Long gone are the days, where I needed to walk him to the bus stop, wait with him while trying to convince him to unbuckle the packsack front buckle. I thought of him all day, as he transitioned to this new phase of his life. He came home and said: "highschool sucks...I have homework already!" To be young again...

Antonio is off to Oxford this afternnoon. So the house is very peaceful. I will go do some yoga today. No distractions, no door bell ringing, no phone ringing and no "MOM!" for a bit. This week it's back to routine and back to seriously taking charge of this weight loss situation. My goal is to be 199 lbs by December 1! I can do it....I just have to get off the computer now, do yoga and start the journey to a new and improved moi!

*quiet cheers! :>
Kimmy

Week 10!

2009-09-01T13:16:00.003-04:00

Kim: - 1lbs!!! ( I reached my goal of being below 215 lbs by Sept 1 !!! )

Tony: -3 lbs

Totals thus far:

Kim: -16 lbs

Tony: -28 lbs

Catching-up!

2009-08-28T15:48:00.003-04:00

Hello ALL!

I have so much going on, well kinda.

First off, I think I'm looking for a job. I don't know why I'm feeling so antsy. I've been out of the work force for quite sometime even though I am educated and al. I've learned that these days, that means nothing. Anyhow, I'm thinking it would be nice to have my own money, buy things that I would like to buy etc...However, I'd like to have my cake and eat it too. I'd like to stay-at-home AND work. Is there such a thing? If so, details please!

I'm also in the middle of taking a Human Resource Management course. Part of it being when my three year old goes to school next year full time (kindergarten is full time next year). I'll be looking for work then too. So that is keeping me busy on top of everything else.

My boys are good. Almost all ready for school (boo hoo or yeah!). I'm ready to have some peace around here, but as I said before; come the first day and I'll be wishing them home again. Summer soccer is done for them, and now comes winter soccer, swimming lessons, violin and guitar. Never a dull moment.

In the weight loss area. Things are slow moving. Every time, I try to do yoga or work-out...my door bell is ringing. Like I said, it's not 'quiet' and boring here. Next week, I look forward to some quiet time, with no audience so I can work-out. I'm also feeling tired. I'm actually struggling with my long walks at night as part of my walking club. The scale hasn't budged (215 lbs), so maybe it's part of a whole. Still, I'm not giving-up!

That's all for now...I'll be back to blog about something.

Hugs!!!
Kimmy

Humps and Hope

2009-08-22T14:33:00.007-04:00

Well, a little bit of a hump for me with no weight loss this week. :< Still, I refuse to be discouraged (at least it's not a gain...right?). As Randy Pausch said: "Brick walls are there for a reason. They are not there to keep us out. The brick walls are there to give us a chance to show how badly we want something. The brick walls are there to stop people who don't want it badly enough."

A few things it could be: I've been eating basmati rice at night for dinner thinking it was brown/whole wheat. I discovered yesterday, that it was in fact white. I don't know if it would make that much of a difference (perhaps my nutritionist/trainer Rob) can help me on that. However, lesson learned: read your labels carefully, VERY carefully. I also, broke down this week and had a few ju-jubes. I was craving some sugar something fierce. I'm sure a few jubes didn't do it. Something was going on with my body. Thus, it's probably a combination of several things. No more excuses...lol I'm going to step it up another notch. Promising to weight train twice this week, do some Tracy Anderson method, awesome for toning. If you don't believe me, check out Madonna and Gwyneth Paltrow who train with her! I'm going to do some yoga today to hopefully lift my spirit and energy a bit. My hormones must be raging because I'm feeling very "blah"...

On another note, I'm still walking with my 'club'. We walk about 5-6 km every night. One member is not feeling well and her 'ramadan' starts today (fasting) so I don't know if she'll be joining us for walks in the next month or so. Nonetheless, it has given me a chance to connect with my other member a bit. Life sometimes can be freaky/weird in a beautiful divine way. I kind of love these things...so I enjoy sharing them. I know sometimes I can also be 'weird' about this stuff. But, if I don't share my 'enlightening' experiences with you: who will? :>

Anyhow, so my one walking partner, I'll call her Carol (as I'm not sure how comfortable people are with having their stories all over the net...so out of respect for her). Carol and I have quite a bit in common, it's actually astonished us both. Here are the similarities:

-we both have three boys (almost the same ages)
-our babies are both named Anthony/Antonio
-we both have shitsu dogs
-we both have cats (mine passed away recently)
-we are both french (although she is more french than I...lol)
-we are both married to Italians
-we live in the same model house
-our furniture: some pieces identical, others similar
-our choices/upgrades with the builder are pretty much the same
etc...
As Carmelo once said in the only way Carmelo can say after being in their house: "Holy Cow Mom! It was like being in our house! We have SO much of the same stuff! That is too freaky for me!!!"
I could go on and on. I call them our 'twin' family.

While walking with Carol, I have learned many new similarities. The biggest one being that she was overweight too and has lost a significant amount of weight and is working hard to keep it off. She is also a huge emotional eater. Wow! Our paths are very similar so it is such a blessing to share with her.

Looking at her now, being thin as she reached her goal weight recently...I can attest how she is feeling etc...I know she won't go down the road I did, as she's at her goal weight and still working-out hard and eating well. She is quite an inspiration and gives me hope that I can do it again! If anything, it is therapy to walk along side someone who is living a parallel life.

So thank God for inspiration and motivation!!! Hope is eternal!

Cheers!
Kimmy

Week 9!

2009-08-22T14:29:00.002-04:00

Kim: 0 lbs :<

Tony: - 3 lbs :>

Wow! Yeah for Tony!

Totals:

Kim: - 15 lbs

Tony: -25 lbs (!!!!!)

Blah!

2009-08-21T17:52:00.002-04:00

Just popping on my blog to put up the skinny version of me (before I gained it all...and starting this journey again!)

So I don't have to look at that hideous photo of me sitting on that chair!

Blah!

Cheers to me looking back to my old self again...soon!

A Lesson in Time...Life is to Short to be too Busy to Care for Myself!

2009-08-18T14:22:00.002-04:00

I wanted to post these two photos. The first taken in May 2009 after my surgery and just before I began my journey to a new/healthier me. The next photo taken with my boys a few weeks ago while on vacation in Mont Tremblant. Although I am kind of hidden in the second photograph, I can still see in my face, and my energy that I am surely on the right path and doing the right thing. A reminder that however life gets busy, crazy or hectic...living right is essential! Life is to short to be too busy to care for myself!

Last night, when the children were in bed, the house quiet and dark, I sat at the computer and re-read my blog post. I realized that we are all busy people. We all have our own lives to live and most of us are getting by. It is reality. It is life.

However, this is the lesson we who are on this healthy lifestyle journey must learn in order to be successful this time. Life is busy and will always be as such. What is crucial is that we learn to cope and be prepared. We must be strong and disciplined. Balance is essential. Life is busy, it's how we deal with it that helps us to survive and succeed at our goals.

Getting by with a glass of water here, a short work-out there, and a quick bite to eat on the go...is what got me back in this mess in the first place. Making time, and just not 'time': QUALITY TIME, is imperative! There are no if's and's or but's about it. I must learn to go with the flow. Sure a work-out missed here and there is acceptable. Sure a bite on the go, once in awhile is okay. But, the shortfall is that soon it becomes the norm because life is busy as such on most days.

Think of this: when was the last time you woke-up and actually had NOTHING, NADA to do but work-out, drink water and eat right? For me, that is NEVER. What I need now is to organize my time, and make strong affirmations to myself and the journey. I must be prepared for the busy times.

Keeping my fridge stocked with fresh fruit, vegies, chicken and other lean meats is key. Having snacks ready for me when I'm on the run is also crucial. Making a point of drinking as much water as I can is also important. I must make the effort no matter how 'busy' life gets. In addition, I must organize my time and set me time for training and exercising. Whatever happens, happens...but in order for me to sustain life, I must make time and everything else can wait. As a matter of fact, I'm missing training these days because of the everything. Even though I am power walking with the girls at night. I know that I need to weight train. I actually miss it!

School is starting soon, and hopefully it will ease up around here. Until then, I am prepared and continue on my journey accordingly. Life is to short to be too busy to care for myself!

(P.S...Tony stepped on the scale this a.m. and is down 2 pounds and is in another weight number! YOUPPIE for him!!!!)

:>

When is School Starting???

2009-08-17T17:04:00.003-04:00

Holy Cow!
Sorry, I haven't posted in awhile, I've been very busy. If you don't believe me, ask my niece Jessica who's missing our daily chit chats; "wow, what happened to you...you are impossible to get a hold of!" Let's just say, I sorta am looking forward to school starting for some peace around here. LOL Actually, my boys will be in school two days, and I'll be wishing them home...for sure.

So just to show an example here is a typical day in my house:

Wake-up
Coffee
Breakfast for the boys
Tidy myself-up
Grocery run

Breakfast for Tony and I
Iron Tony's clothes

Clean: *while 9 boys, yep 9 boys play in my basement and around the house
-kitchen
-bedrooms
-vaccuum
-laundry
-wash floors

lunch

-write
-attempt to look at my school work (I'm taking a college course)

dinner for the boys
dinner for Tony and I

Clean-up from dinner
-visit with neighbours
Power walk with the 'walking club' (about 5-6 km)

Phew!! I'm exhausted just typing that!
I'm not complaining, as I must admit it's a productive busy. I'm mostly enjoying the company of my walking club and the neighbours.

So I've been 'busy'. I've also maintained on track eating and work-out wise (5-6k walks!). So I'm surely celebrating that 2 lb loss. Especially since it's brought me at exactly the same place I was weight wise this time last year. Now it's time to really push and beat last year's weight! :>

Tony too is pushing into a new weight number...he has 2 lbs to go and he'll be there!
Last night, we treated ourselves to wings, and pepsi!!! It had been two months since I've even sipped on a soda. The first gulp just about choked me...that is some powerful sugar in there. Afterwards, we sat in the hottub with the kids and enjoyed looking at the stars. Well, as Carmelo would say:

Me: boys, look at the sky and all the beautiful stars.
Carmelo: Ah em....The star is here...I'm over here!

Well, I think that's all I'll get in right now. The doorbell has rung again...the boys want back in!

Week 8! (2 months!)

2009-08-17T16:53:00.002-04:00

Kim: -2 lbs

Tony: -1 lb

Totals:

Kim : - 15 lbs
Tony: - 22 lbs

Couple total: -37 lbs!!!!!!!

Taking a Time-Out!

2009-08-13T16:27:00.011-04:00

This article was written while I was on vacation in
Mont Tremblant, Québec.

Sometimes life offers us a time-out, a break from the everyday. Naturally, the Eb and flow of things allows for even some great downtime. What a gift! During this time, it is optimal to take advantage of the 'stress less' moments to reflect and meditate on achievements, failures and goals.

The energy of summer is so magical. At present, the mountains surround thee, a waterfall can be heard rustling the rocks in the distance, the trees gently dance in the summer breeze, the air is fresh and the warm golden rays shine down on thee. The white fluffy clouds seem almost within reach in the foreground of the crisp blue sky. Taking deep breaths allowing the mountain air to refresh every cell within...I reflect and write.

I can now think clearly and reflect back on achievements, goals and dreams. Like the energy that surrounds me, my mind is clear and golden. I know my body has brought me to great lengths in the year past. The body is truly a magnificent machine...capable of wondrous miracles within. I am forever astounding by it's capabilities.

It wasn't that long ago, I was unable to walk even for two minutes. Bending over was impossible as was carrying anything over five pounds. My legs were constantly cramping, my nervous system continuously shaking every muscle and I would tire easily. Lying on that couch for those long months made me absorb the reality of my situation and the consequences of my behaviours. I vowed to make a comeback...and share my wisdom!

The road thus far, has not been easy at that. Some days, it is discouraging. Other days, it is depressing. Most days however, I find myself motivated and inspired. Honouring my body, nourishing it with clean, healthy food, working my body and helping it be fueled,improved and strengthened: in return my body begins to heal.

Even though I have much journey ahead of me, I realize that I am further ahead than I was last year. I am now at a mental place of much wisdom and peace. It is a great inner knowing of wisdom that I cannot explain.

At this time, I know that my body is my vehicle for life. I was not living being in so much pain, lying on my couch. I was merely existing. It is crucial and imperative to respect my body at all times. It is essential to honour it as a living, breathing mechanism that needs care and love in order to thrive. Cherish my body always...

Each and everyone of us is uniquely blessed with many gifts. Each of us has many reasons to be grateful. Like the sparkles of the suns rays shining down upon me, we are surrounded by billions of reasons to see the light that surrounds us. Honouring the spirit and soul within is also vital to our well-being. We are all on different paths: together as one.

Take the time to reflect on your spirit. Honour yourself, your body, your spirit and your soul. Be faithful to YOU. Time-out for yourself, and recharge yourself to greatness. There are so many ways to maintain a healthy body, mind, and spirit equilibrium. Nature, fresh air, meditation, gratitude, healthy foods, exercise, laughter, positive friendships are just some examples. Each and everyone of us is surrounded by the magnetism of vitality. It's up to us to soak it in and make the most of it.

Journey to your best...so that you can live your best!

Cheers,
Kimmy

Sincerity!

2009-08-11T19:36:00.000-04:00

This was sent to me from Louise McWade. Louise is an amazing intuitive healer and medium here in the Ottawa region. Enjoy!

Sincerity!

We all have deep feelings of belonging, of being part of a whole. The energy of the present time requests from us a commitment to our true selves. What do we really need? What do we really want? What does our body truly needs to be in perfect harmony? Are we trying to go through transitions, weight loss and other physical transformation only for the purpose of our ego? One must ask themselves: "What does my body and higher self truly require to navigate harmoniously into these transitioning times?

A trust in our divine path and divine guidance is mandatory! Talk to yourselves. Talk to your cells, your body. What is required? What is important at this time? Do I do it for myself or to portray an image to the outside world? We must learn to love our body, ourselves and have acceptance of the world around us. As we diverge further apart from portions of our surrounding, a unity will form and attract to us what is in harmony with our energy and our divine path. The ascension will serve as a cleaning and cleansing process and all that drags us down or doesn't seem to be in harmony with our being must be let go. Trust in the Divine and trust in the higher purpose for mankind.

A new door has opened and one must choose whether to cross the threshold or not. Move on to the higher dimensions or stay behind in the third dimension. What will you choose? Big things and big changes are coming in all areas of life. Can you feel the excitement in the air, the anticipation? Dare to visualize, dare to dream of what it is your heart truly desires. Manifestations are at your fingertips. Keep pure intentions and a pure purpose. Be sincere as for who and why manifestations are required.

May blessings come your way in the most unexpected ways!

Angelic love and wisdom,
Louise McWade (dolphin.444@hotmail.com until the activation of my website)

Week 7!

2009-08-10T14:06:00.003-04:00

I'll be back in a few...to post the happenings of our get-a-away to Mont Tremblant.
However, if there's one thing I've learned in the past, it's to always stay on the course (even though you've had Beavertails and ice cream! :>). The scale keeps me on my toes...so here are my results:

Kim: - 1 lb
Tony: - 1 lb
I'm really happy with this as I really didn't work-out or drink water. I tried to eat healthy however...and will post all about it in a bit.

La Dolce Vita; The Sweet Life, No Sugar Added!

2009-08-04T13:55:00.002-04:00

Life with a family of five can be crazy and hectic. Seems like there is never enough hours in the day, to get it all done. Trying to stay on a healthy lifestyle regime can be challenging and draining at the same time. Lately, it seems like I'm always on the go...running and running. All good though, so I really can't complain. Today, I have a packed schedule as I'm getting ready for our upcoming holiday.

We have friends in abundance, and for that I am so grateful. Not just friends; real genuine, good people friends. Such a blessing! Yesterday, my hubby went golfing with two of his buddies and I decided to go with a friend (who's hubby went golfing with mine) her boys and take the kids to the waterpark. Once there, we ran into the other wife whose hubby went golfing with ours and her kids randomly. We all were in synch and thinking the same. As much as it was refreshing for the kids, it was just as refreshing for the mom's sitting on the blanket and chatting it up while our hubbies golfed.

Afterwards, we had dinner with our neighbours. The food was yummy and they made an effort to cook within our guidelines of our list of YES foods. How kind of them. Towards the end of the evening we were joined by the other member of our 'walking club'. We enjoyed a cup of decaf, mango green tea. Then we took off for our daily walk and talk. I believe that we are all inspiring each other to eat better, work hard and enjoy our play time.

Spending time with other mom's and families, you soon realize that we are all dealing with issues of sameness. Not one of us is above another, and none of us have that 'perfect life'. We are all families...enjoying life, and growing together. What a breath of fresh air to know we are not alone. I am always inspired by being around others. As the old saying goes "...families who grow together, flourish one another."

On my journey to a new and better me, I took the time to reflect on my blog from last year. It's a bonus of having a blog...to see how far I've come and how I have flourished as a person. Morever, at this time last year I weighed 215 lbs. I didn't lose a pound in the month of August and stayed at 215 lbs. Some of it due to the fact that I had hit a wall with my trainer at Goodlife and some of it due to my vacation in Northern Ontario.

I've been on quite the rollercoaster journey since then and after surgery found myself at the exact same spot I was when I began last year. However, in reflection I am focused and determined. Abit slightly impatient. One must never give-up on their journey and their dream. Mine is to lose weight, gain a healthier lifestyle, and keep it off. I also aspire to inspire others like me...going through the same journey. We can do it!

All in all, my short term goal is to be below 215 lbs by the end of August. I am now at 218 lbs so technically, I only have 4 pounds to lose. Last year, I faced alot of challenges, which I now look back at with eager disappointment. Perhaps, come September 1st I will be able to blog that I am further ahead where I was last year, so I'm on the right path. :>

Talk to you all soon. Until then, keep busy, take the time to chat with others, drink water, eat as healthy as possible, and enjoy the sweet life!
Kimmy

2009-08-02T13:40:00.004-04:00

" Your miracle is a prayer away"

-Kimmy

A quick update on happenings in and around here

2009-08-01T16:24:00.003-04:00

Okay!
So things are going really well on this new 'regime'. I've gotten a few "have you lost weight?" questions! YAHOO! So it's true what they say: 'the 12 lb mark is a turn around!". I'm really feeling it.

I also have a club! I'm part of a club! :> We are dubbed the 'walking club' by some, Tony likes us better as the 'Desperate Housewives'...keep dreamin' Tony! ;> So my two neighbours and I have been walking for three nights and have collectively agreed that we all need to keep our 'group' walking. So I've been working out at the gym PLUS taking long walks with the girls.

My diet is also...AWESOME! The other day, Antonio wanted some jujubes...so I let him buy a package. When we got home, I so desperately wanted a few. After all, it can't hurt right? I took a wiff and imagined that if I would sit down I'd probably eat the whole thing (which is something I would of done in the past), so I put them away. Yeah me (a la London Tipton :>)!

We have also made a wise decision regarding our vacation plans this year. We usually head north to our hometown to visit family and old (amazing) friends. When you are eating the 'diet' that we are, such makes it difficult. (My friend Sylvie makes such yummy food for me :>). It would have been easy for us to just say: 'ah..what the hell, it's just a week or so'. However, I'm in a groove right now...and I want to keep going. So, we've decided to go to a resort for a week or so. We will have a kitchen...so we can still enjoy our vacation and eat right. Moreover, we will plan to have one night as a treat for all our hard work and accomplishments and venture out for a nice dinner out. Best of both worlds...and no guilt!

That's all for now, I'm off to to do some Yoga...shower and off for dinner with some friends (no worries...good choices I shall make! :>)

HUGS!
Kimmy

Week 6!!!

2009-08-01T13:25:00.004-04:00

DRUM ROLL!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kim: -3 lbs

Tony: -1 lb

Totals:

Tony : -20lbs

Kim: -12lbs

--------- -32 lbs

Ramblings, Sugar Dreams and Going With the Flow

2009-07-28T14:25:00.004-04:00

Today is Day 2 of the new phase in our journey. It hasn't been that bad actually. I weighed myself this morning and I'm down .6lbs, IN ONE DAY! I don't think it will be like this always, but some formula that Rob set up really works! It's promising. What is the secret? I have no clue, I just follow the 'diet'. I'm eating alot of wholesome/clean healthy foods and I'm full. That's all that matters. :>

Tony...well he's always the jouster and takes this TOO literally. Rob (http://www.laganafitness.com/) told us that for dinner we could eat as much as we could (within the 'safe' healthy and clean food lists) for that one hour period. ROB: some people take this to the bank and cash out!...UNBELIEVABLE. the hour with T....lol

For dinner, I made us grilled steak, whole wheat rice in a mushroom sauce, salad with olive oil and balsamic dressing. Followed by fruit (raspberries, strawberries, blueberries and watermelon). As we sat down to eat, Tony noted the time and went to town like it was his last meal. Half an hour later....he had eaten his dinner and 'dessert'. "I have 30 minutes left...what else can I eat?" My God! I watched in disbelief...as he went for the hummus and Ezekiel tortillas. "You can't possibly still be hungry?"- was all I could ask. Ding! Hour is up...he got up and walked away sighing that he couldn't eat until breakfast time.

As for me, I was satisfied. At night, while watching TV I make myself an organic decaf mango green tea complete with my beautiful pink teapot, cup and saucer. Yummy! I enjoy the tea to satisfy my craving for munchies. As a funny side note, last night I dreamed that I was eating sugar by the spoonfuls! While eating the sugar, I was so angry at myself for giving in to my 'cravings'. I awoke this morning with a sweet taste in my mouth...lol No worries, I checked the sugar in the house and there was no sign that I actually ate the sugar.
The mind is bizarre!

Today, I had planned to go to the gym while Antonio was at his pre-school. Sometimes, as a Mom things don't always go as planned, and you just need to go with the flow. After all, being a Mom is my first priority. Antonio did not want to go...even though I managed to coax him in the van, and drive him there. He sluggishly walked into the building and looked at me with his puppy brown eyes; "Mommy, I don't want to stay. I don't feel good." Back in the van and home it was.

As an expert of early childhood, (I have my ECE, lot's of experience teaching pre-schoolers, not to mention this is my third child plus I have read alot of information on the subject) pre-schoolers do not need the itinerary of a president. What they need most is play-time. They have their whole life ahead of them, to go to school, learn to play an instrument or learn skills at a sport. It's not necessary to over kill with the activities at this age. Experts have agreed that school aged children should not do more than two activities a week aside from going to school. They need downtime. They also need kid time. That is crucial to their whole well-being. When you take that away; you have stressed out, over-active kids who can't cope. Imagine how an over stimulated pre-schooler is affected? Anyhow, Antonio...stayed at home and slept all afternoon. Tomorrow, if he's up for it...he can conquer the world then.

That's all for today. Time to go make my boys dinner and off to soccer!
Hugs!!!
Kimmy

Week 5!

2009-07-25T12:47:00.005-04:00

So the numbers are in as we turn the corner and head in a new direction:

(new meal plan and work-outs).

Tony: -3 lbs

Kim: -1 lb

Totals:

Tony: -19 lbs

Kim: -9 lbs

Couple Total: - 28 lbs

Tony and I are heading out on a date tonight, a nice meal as a treat to ourselves and mental preperation for the new phase in our journey. Twenty-eight pounds is worth celebrating! :>

2009-07-24T16:44:00.000-04:00

As I previously posted about my 'blah' day, I did manage to get to the gym, get in a 30 minute cardio session and a tan. Not bad for an 'off' day. Our trainer also came by to go over our new meal plan and training. I'm pumped. I'm so looking forward to being in onederland again, and wearing my wedding rings. This is my ultimate goal.

I haven't worn them for four years now. I miss them soooooooo much but I REFUSE to have them fitted yet again. The last time I wore them I was 190 lbs. That is what I'm reaching for (for now...and then my goal weight: 160 lbs). That will be a happy happy day. I don't mind at all to have them sized down again...but to make them bigger is just humiliating. So I have refused to wear them...until they fit again. Sadly, too since Tony had bought me a gorgeous five diamond anniversary ring for our anniversary a few years ago. I was three months pregnant at the time and the five diamonds symbolized our family of five united. So of course, once the pregnancy progressed and I got pudgy...the rings had to come off. That was the end of that. They've all been stored since :<...Perhaps, I should just hang them on the fridge as a gentle reminder! BLAH! ( I posted a photo of my engagement ring...ah...one day soon she'll be adorning my finger again!)

Anyhow, I've had an awesome work-out week! YAHOOOO...We are Friday today...so this has been my week:

Sunday: Elliptical 30 minutes

Monday: Walk and Yoga

Tuesday: Treadmill: 35 minutes

Wednesday: Walk

Thursday: Treadmill 35 minutes

Friday: Treadmill 40 minutes/Training with Tony

Tonight, Tony and I have a date to start our new training routine. I'm looking forward to it...(I think).

Eating has been good too. Monday we start our new meal plan as set-out by Rob (http://www.laganafitness.com/). I'm a little afraid since all the planning, cooking etc...is falling on my shoulders. Not that it always doesn't. I just have to make sure that I have all the ingredients always in stock. Plus, make certain Tony has his lunch made and ready for him. It's a little nerving...but I have to step up to the plate.

As a side note....last week, I said a little prayer to the Universe/God hoping to get some encouragement in the working-out dept. (Anyone ever tell you to be careful what to wish for?) LMAO...kidding!

So, my neighbour has asked me to walk with her when we are both free. Check!

I also noticed at the gym, my other neighbour (we call this family our twin family...lol) and we've kind of ran into each other and she's planning on working-out at the gym at the same time as I usually do. Today, we worked out side by side and conversed. It was great to see a familiar face...so Check again!

While working-out, I had a chuckle and gave thanks. So I'll be going to the gym quite often now AND walking AND training with Tony. Hey, if I don't get fit now...I never will!!! LOL

Well...I'm sure that's enough for one day. Eh?!

Love and Light,

Kimmy

Blah :<

2009-07-21T13:16:00.003-04:00

When I first started my blog, I wanted to keep it as real as possible. So today I'm feeling a bit down, and thought I'd come on, blog about it...and hopefully move on.

I've planned to go to the gym today while Antonio is at Oxford. My plan is to go to the gym, do 30 minutes of cardio and have a quick tan then pick him up. As I type this it is: 1:17 pm...so I must get my butt in gear if I'm to get there. ( I will...I will after I make two more beds, clean myself up and start a load of laundry).

I don't know my hormones must be all over the place (blame it on the hormones...it always works!) I guess I'm a tad discouraged. I feel like I'll never get there. Yesterday, was a great day...I went and got my hair done. Everyone raved about how beautiful my hair was...and how beautiful I am (well Tony thinks so)....lol...funny how when I look in the mirror, I see a blimp! :>

Oh, one day at a time. I know. I'm allowed these days. Sometimes, I think I'm destined to be fat. However, it's still a good day as I've had my fish oils, and my nutritious breakfast, some water and my mood has not made me rush to go get some chocolate.

Blah :<

I'm off to the gym soon, and Kimmy will be back tomorrow (hopefully).

What to do?

2009-07-19T16:27:00.002-04:00

The hardest part of being in a lifestyle change, I find is life itself. Take today for instance, we have wonderful neighbours on both sides. One family has 5 children, three of them boys. Our kids are inseperable. They have invited me to join them for dinner as Tony is gone golfing with Diodato. They are kind and generous. Case in point. How can I refuse?

So I have graciously accepted their kind offer, and look forward to the dinner. However, I have no clue what I'm in store for...and I'm usually the kind of girl that doesn't get to tasty when it comes to the palate...lol. However, I'm looking forward to the company of these loving people.

Also, I am heading out to see Harry Potter tonight with my boy Diodato (hey, he turned down a date offer because it's our thing!), my two nieces and my sister-in-law. I'm so excited to see the movie. I've planned to have popcorn (as it's my favourite...I only go to the movies for the popcorn! :>), no butter...or whatever oil they add on, and bottled water.

So, I'll be straying from my 'diet' tonight. But, that's life and it's okay. The important point is to get back on track tomorrow. Planning ahead of time is also crucial. In addition, to off set things today and put my mind at ease further, I'll be doing cardio and some yoga in preperation.

Well...I better run and do my 'work-out' before dinner calls :>
Lot's of Love,
Kimmy

2009-07-19T14:20:00.002-04:00

Tony ...Tony...

The guy lost 3 lbs but was to humble to tell me because he's flying and I'm just chugging along. A loss is a loss, no matter how little or in Tony's case...how big.

So Tony is down for a total of 16 lbs! YAHOO for him!

A Little Bit of Everything...Rolled Into a Great Blog

2009-07-18T13:49:00.005-04:00

First off, another pound gone! I'm not going down the 'just a pound' route even though that little red guy on my shoulder is trying to be heard. A pound lost is further ahead than I was last week. Besides, I cannot keep repeating myself, but I will because I love to be heard...lol. I feel awesome! I heard a great saying today and I will share it with you. GI=GO
Garbage In=Garbage Out (David Wolfe) There is some powerful healing in eating clean, healthy and organic.

Tony is at a standstill. It could be anything and everything. Tony is a VERY...I repeat VERY anxious person. Having bulldozers and a steady work crew in our yard the last two weeks has made him very anxious and stressed. That alone can trigger the body into holding onto the 'fat'. I mean what's a guy to do when people are working on your pride and joy but watch and smoke ten packs of cigarettes?! (okay...okay a little exaggeration, but you get the idea.) We are treating ourselves to a nice dinner out tonight as a celebration of our victories and come tomorrow...it's hard core again.

Speaking of nice evening's out. Last night, we had such a great visit with our neighbour's. We are so blessed and lucky to live in a neighbourhood with some beautiful people and great families. My children are so happy here. After our neighbourhood pow-wow, we were treated to a deluge of rain. Our whole family stood by the windows at 1:30 am and watched the gorgeous rainfall. It was like a gift from above, as our new sod and completed yard was finished today. Nothing like a rain like that to help grass grow!

This week we are meeting with Rob (http://www.laganafitness.com/) to go over our new meal plan and work-out routine. I'm looking forward to the change, and the boost. I'm aiming to lose three pounds to bring me into the 210's. I'm going to celebrate that victory with a visit to The Brookstreet Spa for a detox body wrap and facial.

I'm so amazed at how a simple lifestyle change like making an effort to eat clean and organic can change other aspects of your life. Tony and I are happier than we have ever been...now Rob, if we could just convince Tony to take-up Yoga or meditation...it would be more than perfect...lol!

Thanks for reading...please don't be shy to comment. I enjoy all your feedback!

As we say...Love, Light and Blessings!
Kimmy

Week 4!

2009-07-18T13:45:00.003-04:00

Kim: - 1 lb

Tony: 0 (no change)