Lose Urself 4 Charity!

Here we go again!

2011-11-11T00:48:00.001-08:00

And she's back!

2010-08-21T15:48:00.000-07:00

Me taking a picture of...well...me! :-)

Hey folks!

It has been an absolute age since my last entry, reason being I had somewhat of a relapse and had to stop the diet for a couple of weeks where I either was nauseous or had no appetite or was just too lethargic/ or exhausted to eat so when I had an appetite I honestly at whatever I wanted and the rest of the time I ate fruit and abstained from physical exercise. So in essence I am almost starting afresh but with a renewed vigor and expectant that things will improve.

The relapse was due to a further diagnosis of something called surgeons syndrome which is apparently sarcoidosis' neighbor or something to that effect, either way they have both decided to take up 'short term' residence in my body (primarily 'short term' because I am not issuing any permanent residence visas!)

Anyway I am also aneamic and have been ordered to improve my food intake so this it a great que to get back on track so from Monday LU4C is back in business! :-) what I'm dreading is the monday morning weigh in but good news for me,.. I get an extra few weeks to make up for
lost time and momentum so the challenge will go on until January 24th 2011.

Thank you for your support and encouragement thus far and I hope you will hang in there with me to the end :-)

Rue x

Tickles Pink on Passion in the Moments!!!!

2010-08-09T08:42:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

Just plugging my post on Passion in the Moments for Breast Cancer Awareness and Early detection! Read more @ http://ethos-photographic.blogspot.com/2010/08/tickled-pink.html

Day 58 - More so under the weather...

2010-08-08T14:40:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
I'm feeling lousy, feverish, congested and sore throat-ed this evening which is a bummer because I had a really nice day at a baby dedication for the son of some good friends of mine this morning and a chilled out afternoon then a really good service at church this evening so my spirits are good minus this alien set of germs trying to attract my already temperamental immune system! Aaaarrrgggghhhhh!!!! Well off to bed with me...dinner half eaten, not inspired at all.... Tomorrow I will feel better!

Food Diary
Breakfast:
Chocolate & Strawberry protein bar (was running late and didnt enjoy it at all!!), 100 cup of coffee
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
Paella
Total = 8 points
Dinner:

potatoes
, mixed veg, olives hummus and
chicken
Total = 10points
Snacks:
milkshake, 300ml x coffee, apple, banana, bag of crisps (i know, had a craving...I am due a visit from Aunt Flow so its indulge a little or fly off the handle!)
Total = 8 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 31
Points saved = -4

Day 57 - Bugs & Germs...

2010-08-08T08:33:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
Stayed in doors yesterday reserving my energy for Sunday as I have managed to give myself / catch a cold y / flu and sore throat...not so good so I was home but not resting on my loaurals at all, sorting out my images and backing them up and stuff round the house so though I was in, it was good. Watched Bride and Prejudice as well, Love it! I'm not a musicals fan but this one and sound of Music are definite exceptions to the rule!

Food Diary
Breakfast:
wheat-a-bix with milk
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
rice and fish with coleslaw
Total = 9 points
Dinner:
milkshake (wasn't hungry so something better than nothing...)
Total = 5 points
Snacks:
banana, 300ml x coffee, apple
Total = 3 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 22
Points saved = 5

Day 56 - Friday fun!

2010-08-08T08:27:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
Friday wasn't fun at all actually (so I thought I would go for a wired image to represent the day). IT was a busy day. My laptop is playing up so I went to PC World to try and get it fixed, its going to be a process....then it was spraying ink all over the shop whilst changing the printer cartridges! But once these issues were dealt with and my Sunday school lesson was finalised, there was just more stuff to do! So not a fun chilled Friday at all but it feels good to be getting things done. Later I had a good natter with my friend Pam and we were sharing plans for the months ahead and the bigger picture vision which was encouraging...do surround yourself with like minded people who will help you hold on to your vision hopes & dreams and who will even dream along with you!

Food Diary
Breakfast:
bagel and coffee
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
Paella
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
chicken and salad
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
300ml x coffee, apple, pear
Total = 2 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 23
Points saved = 4

Day 55 - Tickles Pink!!

2010-08-08T08:15:00.000-07:00

Photo shoot in support of beast caner awareness
Mood Diary
Well today I got all dressed up in pink to pose for pictures in support of the fight against breast cancer! I even did a little video!!!! IT was jolly good fun and I am a 100% supporter of the cause and any charities / projects that are designed to help women and raise awareness on the issue include The Layla Project which I think is brilliant! You can find it on facebook, all details in the article link below.So above is one of the pictures and the rest, my artle and video can be viewed @
http://ethos-photographic.blogspot.com/2010/08/tickled-pink.html.

Food Diary
Breakfast:
cereal breakfast mix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
rice, green veg and chicken
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
rice, veg & fish
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
300ml x coffee, banana, pear, mini w.w carrot cake and and an apple
Total = 6 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 27
Points saved = 0

Day 54 - Venturing out...

2010-08-08T08:07:00.000-07:00

Image courtesy of Ethos Photographic
by Rudo Nyangulu
All rights reserved (C)
Mood Diary
Today I went for a walk in a nearby village near the Kennet River by the canal and took a set of images (See the full set of images here -
http://ethos-photographic.blogspot.com/2010/08/scenes-from-river-kennet-and-canal.html)
I took in the fresh air and it was good. Spent the rest of the day trying to get all my paperwork in order as I am starting to do all the things I couldn't and quite frankly didn't want to sort out when I was at my worst illness wise so a fairly distracting day all round but I made headway...

Food Diary
Breakfast:
banana and cereal breakfast mix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
boiled potatoes, green veg and chicken
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
rice, veg and fish
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
milkshake, banana, pear, 300ml x coffee
Total = 6
points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
walk
Length of time:
20min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 27
Points saved = 0

Day 53 - Getting a grip!

2010-08-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
Tuesday I woke up with a new resolve! Sulking is not going to shift the pounds! action will! So I got up early and started the day at the gym. Whilst there I saw this wall about that had been painted by some kids from the school next to the gym and I was moved that children so young can bring wisdom in their simplistic way that completely goes over the heads of so many adults so I took a picture of it to share with you...

Food Diary
Breakfast:
what-a-bix with milk and s sprinkling of sugar
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
white rice, veg and chicken with
coleslaw
Total = 10 points
Dinner:
Paella
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
ybanana, pear, apple, 300ml x coffee
Total = 2 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
Gym
Length of time:
40min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 5
Total points used today = 25
Points saved = 7

Day 52 - Bumbled chaos...

2010-08-08T07:38:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
For all my preparation last Sunday! Monday heralded the end of organisation! I have been chasing my tail all week to the point that I cant believe its Sunday already and a week since I last updated you!!!! Sure hope I can remember what I ate! Anyway this is a note written to report that there is light at the end of the tunnel and today my workspace is also organised which took a week of hiccups and drama to achieve (still haven't done a million things tho but getting there) I was also really disappointed to have not lost any weight so Monday's mood was not so good...

Food Diary
Breakfast:
- (just plain didn't feel like it!)
Total = 0 points
Lunch:
rice (brown) mixed veg and chicken (I'm sooo over fish!)
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
Chicken salad
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
yoghurt, 300ml x coffee banana, pear apple vimto ice pop
Total = 5 points
Water:
1L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-
Just plain didnt feel like it!

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 21
Points saved = 6

Day 51 - Be creative!

2010-08-01T17:08:00.000-07:00

Mystical Rail by Ethos
Mood Diary
I am in a good mood it must be said. I am organised for the week, the house is clean the laundry is done, and I have just sat down with a bottle of water and a cup of coffee to write this. Sunday is generally a busy day with church and the occasional excursion after which makes Sunday night a time of exhausted reflection and also the happiest time of the week for me... My Sunday School class went really well too ( I have a great bunch of kids that I teach!) I have inspired the kids to and they are now feeling even more creative! I have a summer program for them that is set to inspire creativity and so I thought I would share some of my own creative work. My artistic 'pen name' is Ethos and I have some of my work online on my regular blog called Passion in the Moments, check it out for more pictures and a few words...

Food Diary
Breakfast:
wheat-a-bix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
fruit salad and strawberry milkshake
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
brown rice, fish and greens
Total = 9 points
Snacks:
handful of crisps at Sunday school and 400ml coffee (I know they are both bad and am a little worried as I am being weighed in the morning but I have had cravings for salt and where I am not sleeping well, the caffeine helps keep me going, next week I will be better now that my house and life are in a settled state post moving and introducing exercise!)
Total = 5 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-
Rest day

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 27
Points saved = 0

Day 50 - Ladies don't sweat...they glow! :-)

2010-07-31T14:40:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
Wow, just the thought of exercise makes me want to jump up and do something! NOT!!!! Its incredibly hard work getting into an exercise routine and that's the doing not the motivation yourself to get up and go (which i must admit is my problem!). Nevertheless, as even my doctor feels that exercise will change my health life, I am committed to the process for better or pain...
I heard a saying once, I think from my Uncle John funnily enough, it was the title of this post, 'ladies do not sweat, they glow...' This comes from waaay back in the day when women were not expected to exert themselves in any capacity outside the home, and those in the class that called themselves ladies had servants to do everything for them so really they never broke a sweat! At best, in summer they would overheat but even then, the light wetness on their foreheads was dismissed as 'glowing' because sweating, farting, 'No. 2' and anything else yuk was deemed unladylike so ladies didn't do it! Imagine that!!! Lol!

Well the ladies of the 21st Century do all things listed but in style (if that is possible!!!) so for us, ladies dont fade into the background but they bring the light & colour!!!!! (see pic for illustration!) Lol!

Food Diary
Breakfast:
bagel and 200ml coffee
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
boiled brown rice, green veg and fish
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
potato, ham and cheese salad
Total = 9 points
Snacks:
300ml coffee, grapes, plum, egg
Total = 5 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
Gym
Length of time:
40min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 5
Total points used today = 127
Points saved = 5

Information Brochure for Sponsorship

2010-07-31T05:11:00.000-07:00

<p>We're sorry, your browser doesn't support IFrames. You can still <a href="http://www.yudu.com/item/details/198115/Lose-Urself-4-Charity?refid=59497">visit this item.</a>, however.</p>
Enlarge this document in a new window

If you or your company can sponsor me in any way please don't hesitate to contact me!

Day 49 - Eating on the go!

2010-07-31T03:41:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary

Eating on the go is not easy by any stretch of the imagination when you are on a diet! I went out yesterday on a day out and was not entirely sure where I would end up so I pack my picnic bag full of fruits and bits that I could nibble on without fear of undoing all the good I had done so far! I do let myself have treats now and again though as the point of this challenge is to change my lifestyle permanently rather than be a 6 month vacation from bad habits! So when I really want a sweet (ice cream comes to mind here...) or something and I have broadly eaten well and exercised during the course of the week I let myself indulge a little and it keeps me balanced because I don't spend loads of time craving things on a 'Not allowed list' I have written, instead I use wisdom and reward myself for achieving things instead.

Food Diary

Breakfast:
porridge oats
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
ham and cheese sandwiches
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
sweet potato and mixed veg and fish
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
300ml x coffee, milkshake, 2 x plums, traditional English sweets, grapes
Total = 8 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
walk
Length of time:
20min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 1/2
Total points used today = 29
Points saved = -1 1/2

Day 48 - Unveiling the new hair...

2010-07-31T03:22:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:
milkshake
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
Jamaican patti (lamb)
Total = 6 points
Dinner:
potatoes, green veg and kidney
Total = 8 points
Snacks:
300ml x coffee, milkshake
Total = 7 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
Gym
Length of time:
35min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 5
Total points used today = 26
Points saved = 6

Day 47 - The processes of change...

2010-07-31T03:08:00.000-07:00

Mood Diary
Day two of three is the reinvention of my look process...The afro is out and notty and hurts to comb so I am not so happy a bunny today (cant even share that image...no....). It has to be said that I choose not to put chemicals in my hair because frankly unless i have ample time for beauty regimes of steaming, greasing, spraying etc some every day, then it breaks! Now I am a girly girl but I am not a precious girl and therefore external appearance does not rate as high on my list of priorities as...well... lets see...world peace for example...so spending more time than it takes to detonate a landmine fixing my hair daily just seems like a waste of time to me so I try to avoid it...like the plague (I feel so sorry for any daughter I will have...Lol! Only joking, little girls on the other hand dont have the weight of world peace on their heads so they can have fun..at my expense no less...cant wait! Lol!). So anyway all I am saying is that whilst I take my appearance seriously and dont go out in a bag, I keep my concern for the external evenly balanced with the workings of the internal because that's the real me anyway...granted in a beautiful shell which is soon to have great hair again!

Food Diary

Breakfast:
cereal breakfast mix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
pasta, green veg and fish
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
milkshake (was not really hungry...)
Total = 5 points
Snacks:
300ml x coffee, 2 x plums
Total = 3 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
Gym
Length of time:
35 min

Got in there finally!!!

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 5
Total points used today = 21
Points saved = 11

Day 46 - Hair today...gone tomorrow!

2010-07-31T02:50:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:
wheat-a-bix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
boiled potatoes, green veg and kidneys
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
rice and chicken with side salad
Total = 12 points
Snacks:
grapes, plum,
Total = 2 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-

De-cluttering took ages! Honest!!!

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 27
Points saved = 0

Love Yourself...Take care of yourself...

2010-07-27T03:08:00.000-07:00

This is me loving me!

I am a very driven, self motivated person and when I set my mind to something, not only does it happen, I make it happen! Qualities that make for a really focused workaholic unfortunately. In a bid to breakthrough in a new field as I experienced a career change three years ago, I completely lost myself in my work as the demand from above was, 'prove yourself and you will advance and earn more' so I did. In fact I proved myself within the first three months but as with all commercial organisations, you can and never will do enough so a year later I looked back and found myself exhausted and on my third physical burn out already! Seventy hours a week and more on my workload than two people could achieve in a 9 - 5 day, I decided that I needed to break the pattern, and start my masters degree. That was the best decision I ever made as it forced me to work less in order to make time for study. There were weeks when I got up at 8am and was home by 5pm, something that had not happened for over a year, and I was still moving forward career wise. Whilst my life with study was easier, my work demands didn't reduce, I was simply expected to get it done around my 'other commitments'. The last burn out I had was in May last year which lasted for almost three weeks and I did not recover from it at all. four weeks or so later I feel ill and a year and two weeks later I am still battling illness and fighting towards recovery. Whilst work alone did not cause my condition, my consultant advised that my high stress levels, lack of sleep or a healthy lifestyle and being constantly working or alert caused a triggering effect which resulted in the autoimmune condition I now have.

I share this with you because I want you to understand that the choices I made at the time, I felt were the right ones as I was developing my career which is effectively taking care of myself. I have never been one to loathe myself at all, though I have always had weight issues, I have never hated myself when I looked in the mirror and have always been self confident whether at size 12 or size 18. I carried out superficial maintenance regularly. hair, facials, manicures & pedicures, waxing... I dressed for my figure and wore nice clothes and generally looked really good if I do say so myself! Whenever I had a negative view of my body I would do what was necessary, hit the gym, sort out my diet and get things under control. So I was good from a mental and emotional health point of view and therefore my physical health was never a big deal for me...unless I was sick.

What I didn't realise at the time was that my health was more than just 'i am awake and mobile' or 'I am comfortable with the way I look', health is more about who your body feels about itself and my body constantly felt like it was doing 10 rounds with Tyson, 12 cups of coffee, 5 hours of sleep, one meal a day and water was a swear word...It was not a happy bunny, the writing was on the wall and i was oblivious! 95% of the medical checks I have had have been 100% normal yet my body said it was sick and would not work with me! Try as I did I could not even will myself to get back into action once I was down, my body was fed up and was done coping and it was either I shaped up or it was going to stay on strike permanently!

The lesson I have learned from this ordeal is that my body is like a car (yes a car!) If its not fueled with petrol/ diesel /oil /water it will eventually either not move, choke or blow a head gasket (the car version of a heart attack). Bottom line it will be dead, as in grave yard dead if it doesn't have some serious attention! That is why cars are serviced every so many miles and given a full overhaul every year (or they should be all car abusers reading this, this is for you!). This maintenance regime ensures that the car does not prematurely become'grave yard dead' and my experience has taught me that I need to maintain my body like I would car. I need to feed it properly, give it the exercise it needs to stay healthy and give it plenty of water as that is what it uses to function. So ladies and gents out there, please don't reason like I did and think that so long as your body is moving it is OK. Give yourselves the time and that your mind, body, soul and spirit need to flourish! Put yourself first, treat your health as your most valued possession and love who you are inside and out...that is the only way you will ever truly love yourself and take care of yourself the way you deserve...

The cause...how it all began...

2010-07-27T02:02:00.000-07:00

If you ask my parents they will tell you that throughout most of my life i have been a big dreamer... I have always wanted to achieve the seemingly unachievable, attain the seemingly unattainable and I always had something up my sleeve so the element of surprise is more the foundation of all things Rudo! :-)

Now you may have heard earlier in one of my posts that I have been unwell for some time...what I have not explored is the emotional and spiritual battle that comes with prolonged illness. I made two positive steps; the first was to trust God for my healing and choose to believe that He would bring me through. The second was to be honest with myself about everything and not do anything unless I had made an informed choice to do it....this for me was ground breaking stuff!

I did very nearly crack up if I am to be honest because there were at least two cliff hanger moments where the doctors thought I had first bowel cancer then lung...Praise God that it was neither and the diagnosis was (non life threatening) Sarcoidosis. Now in my quest to discover 'who I am' and 'what is my purpose in the world', I did a lot of soul searching and self examination. The result was that my priorities were all wrong (trying to climb the corporate ladder and being a workaholic and all that...crazy in hindsight...) and that one ought to work to live not the other way around!

The question was still looming...what am I meant to be going? The answer came to me in a sermon I heard about being God dreamers and fulfilling your God given potential as you realise your God given dreams...it moved me to tears and I started soul searching further back than my career and realised that the thing I seemed to natural do is help people... so it got me thinking that helping people must be my purpose in life...but how? I was talking to my friend Rumbi about it one evening and she shared how she wanted to go back to Zimbabwe one day and start a free medical clinic to help people too! We had just heard about the Serenje project that the Kerinth Centre, Bracknell Family Church had started and we put the two ideas together, said why wait? and just like that Tekva Trust was born :-)

ABOUT TEKVA TRUST

Tekva Trust was formed to with the sole purpose of giving hope in a 'practical way' to the hardest to reach people who are suffering in various ways from the HIV / Aids pandemic. We will achieve this by helping them develop self-sustaining communities and ensuring their own food security, access to health services and education for their children.

Tekva Trust is a Christian charity based in the United Kingdom that started in December 2009. The charity was set up for the specific purpose of reaching disadvantaged people whose lives have been adversely affected by HIV / Aids.

HIV / Aids destroys life, diminishes communities, cripples societies and has changed the face of whole continents.The whole world has been touched and adversely changed in some way by this disease and the result is increased poverty, reduced life expectancy and higher mortality rates are experienced in the poorest countries of the world.

Tekva Trust aims to help people living with or adversely affected by HIV and Aids in three specific areas; Health & Social Care, Education and Agriculture with one simple focus, developing sustainable communities through aiding food security.

Day 45 - De-clutter my life!

2010-07-26T16:13:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:
bagel + 200ml Coffee
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
pasta, green veg and fish
Total = 10 points
Dinner:
chicken salad
Total = 5 points
Snacks:
peach, pear, seed mix, mini w.w. carrot cake, rubicon fiz drink
Total = 7 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-
No excuse!

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 27
Points saved = 0

Mood Diary
Well today was supposed to be my 'get my house in order day' which involved finally unpacking the rest of my boxes and putting everything away. I had forgotten how exhausting this process is! I made some headway but have much to do before I can claim to be unpacked and de-cluttered! I will be taking a bag of stuff to the local charity shop and taking others to the tip but once this process is done then its just the paperwork left and I am back in control of my life a good two months form initial moving planning and my last episode of illness... I am however optimistic about the the de-clutter plan and the treatment I am receiving so watch this space...

Measurement Week 6

2010-07-26T05:34:00.000-07:00

Week Six results achieved as follows:

Starting point - weight - 216lbs; waist - 45 1/2 inches

Last weight:205lbs

New weight:207lbs

Last Week's waist: 41inches

New waist: 42 inches

A total loss of -2lbs and -1 inch

I am totally gutted that I have not only not lost but gained this week! But the whole I cant keep anything down drama was bound to have a knock on effect so I am keeping the faith and powering on!

Day 44 - Sunday roast with a twist!

2010-07-26T02:41:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:
Fruit
Total = 1 points
Lunch:
Milkshake
Total = 5 points
Dinner:
Chicken, small portion of chips and large salad
Total = 10 points
Snacks:
chicken wings, w.w carrot cake
Total = 5 points
Water:
1.5L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-
Rest day

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 21
Points saved = 6

Mood Diary

Its
was a pretty chilled out day, found my appetite at dinner! I had seconds and everything! It was as chilled out as a Sunday should be with church in the morning and photography in the afternoon...lighting for pictures was not so good but the sermon was excellent! It talked of consecrating one's self to God and being diligent in that...Its the same kind of focus, dedication and commitment we need to achieve...its great how God draws us to do in a relationship with him what will help us succeed in every other part of our lives!

Day 43 - Imagine being suspended in air without a harness or rope!

2010-07-25T00:02:00.000-07:00

Suspended in time...

Food Diary

Breakfast:
fruit
Total = 2 points
Lunch:
milkshake
Total = 5 points
Dinner:
potatoes, green veg and liver plus W.W Carrot cake for dessert
Total = 12 points
Snacks:
mixed seeds and nuts
Total = 3 points
Water:
1L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner
Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
-
Length of time:
-
Rest day

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27
No. of points earned (exercise) = 0
Total points used today = 22
Points saved = 5

Mood Diary
I took the picture above last summer of my friend Kane who is incredibly fit and yes, able to hold his body weight suspended in the air! (for a few seconds anyway but how cool right!). It is a motivating picture for me, not because I intend to be able to do that but I would love to have the option! I had a busy day just sorting things out around the house so did not get to the gym but I am focused and determined so come Monday, my routine kicks in!

Day 42 - A little treat!

2010-07-23T15:47:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:

fruit and coffee

Total = 3 points

Lunch:

brown pasta, spinach & prawns in low cream cheese sauce and a mini forest gateau dessert

Total = 12 points

Dinner:

small portion of white rice and beef stew

Total = 8 points

Snacks:

chicken and veg broth, 300ml x coffee

Total = 5 points

Water:

5-a-day:

Yes

Exercise Corner

Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:

Length of time:

-
Day off!

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 0

Total points used today = 28

Points saved = -1

Mood Diary

I had a great day today catching up with an old friend at Starbucks (great coffee! I recommend a tall Irish Cream Latte). I then met a girlfriend I have not seen in a year and she made me a fantastic meal and home made black forest gateau...yummmy... I did have my first day of three meals, nausea aside. I then had dinner with yet more friends! I rested from the gym so all in all a chilled and emotionally fulfilling day!

Day 41 - Fresh air a plenty

2010-07-22T16:57:00.000-07:00

Food Diary

Breakfast:

banana and spiced tea

Total = 1 points

Lunch:

boiled potatoes, mixed veg and grilled fish

Total = 8 points

Dinner:

Total = -

Snacks:

300ml x coffee, peach, pair, banana, small bunch of grapes

Total = 5 points

Water:

5-a-day:

Yes

Exercise Corner

Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:

walk in a field gym

Length of time:

30min 30min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 4 1/2

Total points used today = 14

Points saved =13

Mood Diary

Well its been a really busy day today! I went to a coffee with friends then walked their dog in fields of barley (or maybe wheat) which was an invigorating brisk walk. I then ate! Yes the old appetite is definately coming along! I then went to the gym for my session and I am now typing this report at a friends house so the day is not quite over but it has been a good one!

Measurement - Week 5

2010-07-21T18:04:00.000-07:00

Week Five results achieved as follows:

Starting point - weight - 216lbs; waist - 45 1/2 inches

Last weight:212lbs

New weight:208lbs

Last Week's waist: 42inches

New waist: 41 inches

A total loss of 4lbs and 1 inch

Apologies, I didn't feel well enough to go and get measured last week so this week's results are for two weeks. Still a steady 2lbs a week on the weight which is good and my waist budged a little so good all round!

Day 40 - Let the games begin!

2010-07-21T16:27:00.000-07:00

Food Diary
Breakfast:
banana and cereal breakfast mix
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
boiled potatoes, green veg and kidneys
Total = 8 points
Dinner:
salad
Total = 2 points
Snacks:
yoghurt, 300ml x coffee
Total = 2 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
Yes

Exercise Corner

Key -- 30 min - Gym = 5points, aerobic class = 4points, 50 lengths - Swimming = 3points, 30min + sport = 2points, 30min - walking / activity = 1/2point

Type of exercise:
Gym
Length of time:
30min

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 4

Total points used today = 17

Points saved = 14

Mood Diary
Well D-day arrived sooner than I thought! Went to the gym for an induction today and not only had they decided to waive all costs of membership but I immediately had a personal training session / induction so I had to do the exercise after being shown how to use the machines!!! It was hard but I held my own and didn't beg for mercy!!!! Lol! Not a bad start to exercise but it knocked me out and had to sleep for upwards of five hours after that! So hence forth its 4/5times a week of 30 min exercise each time for me...I'm going to try and keep it interesting by changing it up and having a mixture of the gym 3 times and then the other 1/2 between classes and swimming and see how I go...watch this space...

Day 39 - Cereal bars are not your friend...

2010-07-21T15:15:00.000-07:00

Food Diary
Breakfast:
cereal bar with almonds & yoghurt and 300ml coffee
Total = 7 points
Lunch:
-
Total = -
Dinner:
-
Total = -
Snacks:
apple,slice of home made banana cake, small bunch of grapes
Total = 5 points
Water:
2L
5-a-day:
3

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 0

Total points used today = 12

Points saved = 15

Mood Diary
I was out and about today so grabbed a cereal bar but i must admit i am not a fan! They are often packed with sugar or nuts both anti diet in a small place which fools you into thinking its not too bad...it is!!! Avoid them if possible...I had a few things to do today like register with a new general practitioner (gp) closer to my house, case the local gyms gearing up for phase to of LU4C... exercise...yes the gym, yes me, its happening! keep checking back because any day now its all kicking off! I have a gym induction tomorrow bit nervous about starting exercise while i am not feeling great or eating properly yet but I guess the exercise will boost my appetite as my muscle cry out for carbs so it cant be all bad...only time will tell...today's mood is optimistic!

Day 38 - Jamaican cooking brings back the appetite!

2010-07-19T15:10:00.000-07:00

Food Diary
Breakfast:
fruit salad
Total = 2 points
Lunch:
cinnamon and raisin bagel with butter and 300ml coffee
Total = 5 points
Dinner:
chicken curry, cabbage and rice & peas
Total = 12 points
Snacks:
vimto ice pops, pear
Total = 2 points
Water:
1L
5-a-day:
Yes

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 0

Total points used today = 21

Points saved = 6

Mood Diary
My appetite is returning and has been largely aided by my lovely Pastor's wife having me over for dinner tonight and giving me some good wholesome home cooked Jamaican rice & peas and curry chicken with cabbage...mmmm mmmm mmm! is all I can say, it was good! And the first proper meal I have had since Wednesday. No nausea or vomiting tonight thank the Lord! So I am slowly going back to business as usual. My mood has no doubt improved with good food and good company it has been a good day.

Day 37 Chicken or chicken? Chicken!!!

2010-07-18T17:11:00.000-07:00

Food Diary
Breakfast:
Porridge
Total = 5 points
Lunch:
Cuppa Soup (tomato)
Total = 2 points
Dinner:
small portion of beef rice
Total = 4 points
Snacks:
cereal bar, yoghurt, pear, apple
Total = 5 points
Water:
1L
5-a-day:
2

Weight Water Points

Total daily WW points = 27

No. of points earned (exercise) = 0

Total points used today = 11

Points saved = 16

Mood Diary
On the appetite front, improvement is slow coming so I am still not eating much but I am trying to have a little something often which is working OK for now... On my way home from church I saw a group of chickens on a farm along the road and decided to stop and take a couple of pics and today's picture is one of them! There was also an intresting scene where a horse and the chickens were in the yard together eating and hanging out! IT was fun to watch! Across the road was a field of maze which I have not seen in England before so it was a treat! I am already planning how to convince the farmer to give me some of his harvest! Lol! You can see the rest of the pictures on a post called, A picture of farm life... on my other blog http://ethos-photographic.blogspot.com/