Day 12: Slow and steady

     Here we are at day 12, almost half way through the Whole30. According to the timeline, this is the day I am supposed to experience boundless energy. So far today, I feel pretty good. My workout was a little drawn out and I was the last to finish (which is getting a little old), BUT... I went, and I did it. Still no struggle or cravings, so I know our menu has been good which definitely helps. So excited to take some time to read the new Whole30 book and check out some of their new recipes this weekend.
   So about this slow and steady thing.... My decision to begin changing my lifestyle and work towards a better me was right around the end of 2012. It feels like I've been doing this forever, and some days I don't feel like I've made any changes at all; I still see that same person in the mirror, and still feel so much bigger than people around me. So, it's been about 2 years and 3 months and I've gone from 276 to 227, 46" waist to 36", and struggling to make it through a basic circuit workout to crossfit 4 times a week. I'm a week and a day out from my first Spartan, and I've truly never felt better in my whole life. While I read things about people losing a 100lbs in a year or see those unrealistic tv shows where they lose 27lbs in a week and sometimes feel like I'm not working hard enough, I also know that the way I'm doing this is a journey, a life lesson, and will be maintainable. I know deep down that THIS is how I will be successful for the rest of my life.
     We have tried SO many different plans and programs all with their own level of success, each ending in some sort of decision to change to something else or to make bad decisions going back to our old habits. But no matter what the changes or how long we stayed on something, we have stuck it out for the most part since that point back in winter of 2012, and this current streak we are on has lasted the longest, had the most momentum, and also the most results. We are happy, we are getting healthy, and we are no longer scared to set big goals for ourselves. Gifts to each other are now fitness related or paleo cookbooks, we geek out in sporting goods stores, and prefer workout gear to dressing up. What a difference in the life we share together, and within ourselves as individuals. There is nothing about this journey I would change.

       This is a little outside my comfort zone, and I took these pics with no intention of sharing them. So consider that your warning, but this is my accountability to myself. The pics on the left are January 2013 and the right are from today. Still a long way to go, but it gets easier every day.

-Jamie

Day 8...

     Today was day 8. But since my last post, there has been days 5-7. Those days had all sorts of things, ranging from emotional exhaustion to flu-like symptoms (which I have now convinced myself are just horrible allergies). Still feeling pretty crappy as far as that goes, and the last couple workouts have really kicked my ass, but I'm feeling the benefits of this way of life in small ways with big impacts. I haven't been eating antacids by the handful as I usually would, I haven't been craving crap food or sweets, I haven't been bored or disinterested with our food as with many other plans, overall it's been good.
     The countdown is in full effect for the Spartan race I am doing on May 2nd. This is HUGE for me, though I'm really trying to downplay it all. I set my goals high so that I could allow myself some time to get my shit together, half thinking it could be a long term goal as long as there's a goal on the table. So I decided that I wanted to do a mud run, but not just any mud run, I wanted to do THE mud run. So... Spartan race!!! And without putting enough thought into it, as it came across my facebook suggested ads one day I clicked on it. Next thing I know... I'm registered. CRAP!!!!!! So... here it is, less than 2 weeks away, and I'm not really freaking out about it like I should, nor am I really training for it per se. I'm doing crossfit 4 times a week, and have run on the treadmill a couple times, but nothing as serious as I probably should LOL. BUT.... it's kind of also a benchmark for me. I'm not going into it with any intention or goal other than to give it my all and to finish. As long as I finish and don't die, I will feel proud and accomplished. I am running it with team bucket list,whichincludes2 other friends (Sarah and Renee), who will hopefully not get stuck pulling my big ass over a wall somewhere! Wish me luck!
     So, our food selections for the week were all picked off of an instagram page called Whole30 recipes. Go check them out cuz this stuff is GOOD! Breakfasts have stayed the same this week(and will stay that way throughout) because it's good and it's easy! 2 eggs, 2bacon, baked sweet potato w/ghee and cinnamon. Lunches are: Salad w/grilled chicken today, chicken salad stuffed tomato w/spiralized cucumber salad, Portuguese kale and chorizo soup, spinach and apple turkey burger w/guacamole. Dinners this week are: Seared peach rosemary pork chop w/marinated mushrooms, lamb stew, spaghetti squash w/Bolognese sauce, chicken wings w/sweet potato fries, mussels in tomato broth. Gonna be a good week! Let me know if you need recipes!
    As for Dawn.... she is making this stuff look easy! Her detox symptoms have been minimal, and she is really not struggling with anything at all... jerk! I'm super proud of her and glad that she seems to be enjoying it so far. She's been hitting up all these crazy classes at the gym and getting it done! She did break one of the primary rules of Whole30 and got on the scale (she's a serial weigher), but to her surprise.... 11 lbs down so far! Pretty awesome! Of course for curiosity's sake after that I did it too... 7lbs! Glad to be off that plateau!
           -Jamie

Day 4: WTF?!?

     Day 4, and thankfully a half day at work so I could hide out under a blanket for the rest of it!!! My emotions are running on full blast today, and it's serious! Instead of the anger and annoyance I've been feeling so far, today was a little different. My frustrations with some things at work finally broke me. In the middle of an inservice day, I literally BURST into tears in the middle of a session on writing a syllabus. NOT good! I'm an angry crier and once it starts, there's no stopping it until the ducts are empty and that wicked headache behind the eyes sets in. That's where I'm at right now, squinting at the screen and tapping the keys gently so as to not feel the typing in my head. Off tomorrow, so I can work through what will hopefully be the last of the crappy feeling days.

  So, here's what I ate today:

Breakfast: 2 eggs, 2 bacon, sweet potato w/ghee and cinnamon
Snack: cucumber spears (4)
Lunch: Sonoma chicken salad, apple
Snack: 2 hard boiled eggs, small handful nuts & dried fruit
Dinner: Pork mexi-bowl

Yea... still snacking. Feeling really hungry throughout the day. Still feeling good about the decision to do this, and positive about the changes being made. Sticking with it is easy to do and I know that how my body is feeling right now will pass soon enough.

Days 2& 3 "The Hangover"

     We read the Whole30 timeline in depth and still I felt just a bit blindsided today when I found myself getting angry and frustrated with the simplest things. Things I encounter daily, behaviors that people are known for, pretty much EVERYTHING! I knew, I expected, and still strangely surprised. To the point that I almost wanted someone to provoke me just so I could unleash on them!
     The cravings have been fine, nothing unbearable and not really even anything specific. I am, however, VERY persuadable when it comes to food stuff. So talking to a coworker about a nice chai latte or a kitchen that is engulfed with the smell of brownies baking is still a bit hard. The food we are eating is still tasting good and keeping my interest, which also helps a lot. Here's a list of what I've eaten:
Day 2: (Super hungry today)
Pre-workout- Handful of nuts and dry fruit
Post workout- Apple and almond butter
Breakfast- 2 eggs w/hot sauce, 2 bacon, baked sweet potato w/ghee and cinnamon
Snack: 2 1oz meatballs and 2 strip bacon
Lunch: Sonoma Chicken Salad lettuce wraps, larabar, apple berry la Croix sparkling water
Snack: Epic bison bar
Dinner: Slow roasted pork Mexican bowl (sautéed red cabbage, cilantro,onion, tomato, avocado)

Day 3:
Breakfast- 2 Eggs, 2 Bacon, Sweet potato w/ghee & cinnamon
Snack: 3 strips bacon
Lunch: Beef & Turkey chili w/tons of veggies
Snack: small handful mixed nuts and some grapes
Dinner: Chicken Cacciatore

    Yea, I know... not supposed to be snacking but I'm just so hungry sometimes! So it's not too bad so far. More to come!
  -Jamie

Dawns take on days 2 and 3..

Surprisingly, they are not as bad as I expected.  Like Jamie said, the food we are eating is quite tasty, but I miss my snacks!  I noticed that I woke up with a headache yesterday (typical hangover, right) and then shit just went downhill! Little things, but enough to irritate me.  Then I couldn't sleep last night and became irrational. Very irrational. So I went to the couch at 2am where I slept until 5:15am and then became a happy camper.
Tonight at work I brought in 'snacks' for my group. It consisted of chips, salsa, and queso. I could get done on queso.  As I watched the group eat the treats, I snacked on carrots and had to remind myself why I was doing this.  I am doing it for so many reasons that one day I will write down, but for now I am happy where this is going.  Friday I have a training for work where they cater breakfast and lunch so that is what I am focused on now...Until then, happy/healthy eating...and onto day 4!

Whole 30 Day 1 complete!

     So here we are at the end of day1... not too bad! The food was good, I picked up a meal plan client, and got my ass back to the gym! Feeling good, motivation it up there, I'm excited, no complaints... YET! So, if you're not familiar with the Whole 30 program, you can definitely hit up their website (www.whole30.com) for more information, but the basic jyst of it is: NO gluten, NO grains/legumes, NO dairy, NO alcohol, etc. So, basically 30 days of super strict clean eating. The part that'll likely be the hardest is going from a plan that encouraged snacks between meals, making 5-6 small meals a day to one that promotes a 3 meal way of doing things. Today was definitely a hungry day, so there were small approved snacks to fill the gaps until I adjust.
     Here's what I ate today...
Pre-workout: small closed handful of raw mixed nuts, water
Post-workout: apple and almond butter
Breakfast: 2 eggs, 2 bacon, baked sweet potato w/cinnamon and ghee
Snack: Blueberry larabar
Lunch: Big salad w/homemade tarragon vinaigrette
Snack: Epic turkey bar
Dinner: Shrimp "tacos" with tomatillo slaw and avocado

Had a couple cravings for sweets after meals and a soda in the afternoon, but not giving in to that stuff, especially on day 1 hahaha.

My plan is to write a little every day just to chronicle my journey and the details of the 30 days. Bare with it! Thanks for reading.
  -Jamie

One thing after another...

    Ever feel like no matter how hard you try it just doesn't work? Or like the harder you try the more life throws at you? This is where I'm at right now. Not necessarily today or this week, but right now this moment. I'm feeling sorry for myself and completely defeated. BUT... here I sit typing this "confession" to whoever may read this hoping that by letting goof the words and the feelings it will free me to get back to my motivation and my goals.
     As I mentioned in my previous post, I've been trying to sort out some medical stuff, which resulted in a prescription for a very common drug that I've taken other forms of before with no issue. Well, this time the dose was considerably higher and attacked me with side effects. The worst of it all was dizziness that had me unable to stand up straight on Monday, and having to call out of work (which I can't even remember the last time that happened!). This was after a kitchen accident on Sunday where I lost a fight to a mandolin, which cost me the tip of my finger. Already feeling crappy... So, these 2 things had me unable to start the week with crossfit, which also makes me unhappy. With no idea about the side effects and trying to figure out what the hell else is wrong with me, Dawn started doing some research and determined it's the meds. I stopped taking them, and am currently waiting out the time release factor.
     Meanwhile, there was Easter on Sunday, my birthday on Wednesday, and who knows how many other excuses I could come up with for why I've already failed at my 30 day commitments. But ultimately... no matter what I say the reasons were, it happened, and I moved on.
     Batch cooking this week was minimal, but we made a batch of chili that was really veg heavy, cooked up some sausages with peppers and onions, made some oatmeal, and left room for things like the fantastic taco dinner one of my students made for my birthday dinner. We have made plans for the weekend, that of course have food and drink involved, and I'm not sure how I feel about it... guilt? disappointment? apathy? disregard? I dunno.
     Meal plans intrigue me and dietary information or claims that all these different chefs or trainers or celebrities or doctors make grab my interest, and while I'm not opposed to trying any of them or all of them (partly for the experience and partly to find what works best for me), I feel like I'm always explaining my food stuff to someone or talking about what new plan I'm on this week. It gets frustrating and it's hard to try to maintain some sort of social calendar without food or drink being involved.
   So... that's where I'm at with things right now, and it's not a great place to be, so I'm hoping this little venting helps with that. I am always open to thoughts or opinions or words of encouragement, so feel free....
        -Jamie

Bloggin' ain't easy!!

     And just like that it's been 3 months since either of us has written anything... sorry. So what has happened in that time?? Ugh... what hasn't!?! Dawn has found herself in a job that is right in line with the dream she had for her career, she has backed off of both boxing and crossfit due to injury (tendonitis in her wrist and thumb), has signed up for her next 5k, and has realized that with the season change it's now time for a new smaller wardrobe. I think that about covers the bulk of it. As for me... Still doing crossfit 3-4 times a week (and holy crap am I getting stronger!), am counting the days until my Spartan race, I have registered for school, and have also had some wardrobe changes. All in all, things are good... I have some health issues we are currently trying to figure out, but the results so far are steering away from anything serious, so that's good.
     So... the weight situation is a touchy subject... we have both been at a plateau for almost 2 months, which is SUPER frustrating! We have both seen changes in our body composition, and that's great, but sometimes you just wanna see a different number on that damn scale!!! With that, I've made the decision that we are going to try something a little different: 30 days of clean living. No eating out, no alcohol, no gluten, no dairy, minimal sugar, etc. Worth a shot, right?!? It couldn't have been timed better though, since I'm on spring break and able to cook fresh every night rather than batch cooking, but that's only one week, so back at it on Sunday.
     This week we are keeping it pretty simple: spinach shakes for breakfast every day, hard boiled eggs and clementine for snack 1, deli meat lettuce wraps for lunch, raw veg w/guacamole cup for snack 2, protein & veg for dinner. Also trying to grill as much as possible! Just because lol. Starting to look for recipes now for next week, will tell ya all about it as soon as I know.
     Now for the "other stuff"... last week there was a WOD that absolutely kicked my ass, and it was awesome! It was a Tuesday, which are always benchmark workouts; the ones named after heroes or have some level of status in the crossfit community. I was one of the last 2 people working while all the fit people had finished and were gathering their things to head out, I kept my head up and gave it everything I had. As I looked around, everyone had stayed... they were cheering on those of us not yet done. It felt good... they knew my name, they knew I could do this even if I didn't, they knew I needed that in that moment. I dug in deep and found every last bit of grit left in my and as I pushed through my final thruster, I dropped the bar and feel to the ground. I burst into tears and let go of everything that had ever held me back. It was that moment that I've read about in so many other weight loss journeys, but never had my own. THIS was my breakthrough. I grabbed my stuff and walked towards the exit, thanking everyone that was telling me "good job" as I left. I got into my car and began a full on sobbing scene. It felt good, it gave me clarity, it made me realize things about myself that I had never thought possible. That moment has help me set new goals, hit new PRs, lift heavier, dig deeper. LOVE IT!
    Thanks for reading, I know that was a lot of catching up, but I will definitely try to keep up on this thing more now that I have things to write about.
      -Jamie

Measurements, Motivation, and Meal plans

     Good morning!! So here we are on the last Monday of 2014... New Years day is on Thursday and with that comes all the resolutions and new diets or exercise programs for the majority of people. I always try to say I'm not doing any of that and I'm just doing my own thing without all the dumb broken promises to myself. Most of that is just me trying to justify or feel better about all the failed attempts of my past. So, every year it gets a little harder or a little more annoying to think about the same stuff. I am really kinda sick of it and would love to have a new years where I don't have to think about weight or diet or exercise. Or to still be sitting here thinking "maybe next year". Even when you pretend it's not an issue or something that's on your mind, it doesn't go away. It's like when someone mentions the amount of food you eat or looks at your plate with a judgmental look and you find yourself wondering if skinny people feel this way. But... no matter what your weight situation is or what your hang ups are, no one will ever judge you as hard as yourself.
     Now... this whole motivation thing... what is it, where does it come from, how do you make it stay?? These are things I have wondered for pretty much forever! Once you start something and pour your whole self into it it's easy to ride out the momentum and keep it going, and even easier when you begin to see results. But what happens when you start to get a little cloudy in your vision, or when you take a little time off, or when things just hit a random stand still. As I sit here in between holidays knowing that my food choices have been shit and that my gym schedule has completely fallen apart, I just don't know how to light the fire back up. I know I love what I was doing, and I know I was seeing better results than I ever have before, but for some reason I'm just in a funk.
     I don't really do well with free time or sitting still, and I am currently in the middle of a 2 week break from work. So.... that puts me in this weird emotional spot where I just lose my motivation. I hate it, I'm aware of it, and yet I still let it happen. I am a creature of habit and do best when I have a routine, so set schedules and strict meal plans all work really well for me, but the slightest change in plans can offset everything I'm doing. Weird how it works, but its always been that way for me. Anyone have any input on this?? Suggestions on how to keep it going or get back on??
     Speaking of strict meal plans... we just signed up to follow a slightly more intense version of the fit2fat2fitplan we had been following before the holidays. It starts on the 4th, so this week will be the prep week, which usually involves purging the house of bad stuff and stocking up on the good stuff. Luckily for us, we've already been doing this so it's just the holiday crap we have to get rid of and Saturday we will shop for the new menu to batch cook on Sunday. If you have any interest in checking this thing out, the new plan is at 2fitathome.com, the free version we were doing before is at fit2fat2fit.com.
      Last but not least.... as I've been promising, here is the chart of our measurements so far. You can see that there are some solid results, but also some stand stills. There is still far too much weight and inches to be lost for there to be a plateau for either of us. Something definitely needs to be shaken up here in the next couple days to get this thing going full force into the new year. So I guess a resolution needs to be made, but rather than some empty promise or putting a number on things, I will keep it a bit simpler: No more excuses!!!! That is the best thing I can do for myself at this point.
     Happy New Year to each and every one of you that reads this. Thank you for your continued support. Be safe, and take good care of yourselves.
   -Jamie

DAWN	20-Sep	10/17	Diff.	24-Nov	Diff.	27-Dec	Diff.
Neck:	16	16	0	15.25	0.75	15.25	0.75
Bust:	50	49	1	49	1	47	3
Waist:	48.5	46	2.5	46	2.5	45	3.5
Hips:	57	54	3	54	3	53.5	3.5
Right Arm:	19	18	1	16	3	15.5	3.5
Right Thigh:	30.5	27.5	3	27.5	3	26	4.5
Right Calf:	21	20	1	19.75	1.25	19	2
							(-20.75)
Weight:	286.8	284.2	2.6	276	10	276	10
JAMIE	9/20	17-Oct	Diff.	24-Nov	Diff.	27-Dec	Diff.
Neck:	15.5	15	0.5	14.5	1	14.5	1
Bust:	46	45	1	45	1	45	1
Waist:	42.5	41	1.5	41	1.5	40	2.5
Hips:	48.5	47.5	1	47.5	1	46	2.5
Right Arm:	17	15	2	15	2	14	3
Right Thigh:	30	28.5	1.5	28.5	1.5	28.5	1.5
Right Calf:	19	18.5	0.5	18	1	17.5	1.5
							(-13)
Weight:	236	229	7	227	9	227	9

Oh heeeyyyy!!

       Holy crap... it's already been 20 days since we last posted! It's amazing how easily life gets away from you. Holidays, new job for Dawn, sick people, sick pup, new goals, new achievements, etc... and here we are with New Years in sight! The end of an exciting and amazing year, and a solid outlook on what's to come.
     This Christmas was so unlike any other, and yet so much better in a different way! We usually both have our interests and things that we want for gifts that include kitchen toys for me and makeup for Dawn. This year included things like compression shorts and sweatbands as well as a foam roller and a 20lb slam ball. What a difference a year makes!
    Crossfit at the new gym has been amazing, we are both getting stronger and have better endurance. I can do 20" box jumps no problem now! AND... I did a series of 11 clapping pushups during a workout on xmas eve! I LOVE THIS SHIT! haha It just feels good to be so focused on health and strength instead of weight and getting skinny.
     Unfortunately, Dawn hasn't been boxing as much as she would like... she's been too busy loving her new job! Scheduling conflicts suck, but she is still kicking ass and trying to find that balance. She is also looking into a 10k next month. I'm just really glad she is finding her groove in life and proud of all she is accomplishing both personally and professionally.
    We sent out the most obnoxiously cute holiday cards this year that involved us getting dressed up and going to the gym to play around with poses with equipment. Hopefully you got one and loved it, if not... that sucks! HAHA

     Anyway....I'm babbling, but wanted to post a quick update and not neglect this thing anymore. Measurements tomorrow, batch cooking on Sunday, and New Years this week... no resolutions this year for me. Why? Because I've already started and made my own commitments and promises to myself. I WILL, however, be making attempts to keep up on these posts more. Thanks for reading and happy holidays to you all!
      -Jamie

Seatbelts and Douchebags

If you never had to ask for a seatbelt extender, this is for you. An inside glimpse at that world from a chunky chic.

When I first flew years ago I was nervous about the seats. I wasn't at my heaviest, but still very overweight. When I boarded the plan and attempted to clasp the seatbelt, it would not budge. I smushed, pushed, and did anything I could do to get that damn thing to close, to no avail. With apprehension I approached the flight attendant to ask for an extender. You could see the look of digust in her eye as she handed it to me. If only she knew the disgust I felt for myself for having to ask. Luckily, I would fly with my wife so she didn't mind (or wouldn't admit) if my thighs went on her side of the seat. I minded however. I hated it. I hated flying and never wanted to get on a plane again.

My next issue was the bathroom. I have a small bladder to begin with and when I get nervous, I'm screwed. Anytime I fly I will not eat or drink until I have gone into the airplane bathroom, closed the door, and sat down. I have never not fit, but it still scares me. 

So today was a flying day. I have worked my butt off these last few months but still had fear of not fitting in the seat. I found out I was the only one in my aisle before boarding so I was slightly relieved that my thighs wouldn't touch the neighbors. As I boarded the plane I told the flight attendant I may need an extender. I like to forewarn them before the plane gets to busy. I took my seat, took a breath, and grabbed the seatbelt. It clasped. I wasnt squished and had room to move around. I was ecstatic. The flight attendant walked by shortly after and asked if I needed the extender. Proudly, I said nope I am comfortable. She smiled. I smiled. In fact, I smiled the whole way to Chicago because I knew when I get home I am checking off another box on my bucket list.

The next flight was from Chicago to Hartford and I heard the plane was small. Okay, its really fucking small. One seat on one side, and 2 seats on the other. I approached my seat which was the aisle of the 2 seater and some douchebag dickhead was in it. I decided to take the one seat side rather than cause a commotion.  Once again, I held my breath and grabbed both ends..OMG, it fit. And I fit. In this tiny lil seat with armrests on both sides that were not moveable. Sidenote, the douchebag just smiled at me and I want to punch him but I'm too proud.

So as the plane is about to take off, the attendant asks someone in row 1-7 to sit in the back to distribute weight. Douchebag kinda looks at me, I look at him and remain seated. The guy behind me ends up moving. Screw you people. My butt is secure in this seat, 5A, and thats where it is staying. Then, I tested the bathroom. Yup, I fit. Phew, mise well pee while I am in here..and hang out. Why?? Became I mutha fuckin can. Because I can close the door and do a pirouette if I wanted to. Because I work hard for who I am becoming. And because I am no longer that person that needs an extender. Ya know what else?? I wear the seatbelt even when the pilot says you dont have to!!

Bucket list item complete. Day is great. I am happy. Love and health to all. Except the douchebag. He still is annoying  me.

 

ramblings...by Dawn

Oh hey there to whoever is reading! Dawn here..time for updates!!
I recently completed an item on my bucket list!! a 5k!  It was something I had wanted to do for a while, but never had the ambition to train for.  With the help of a friend and her daughter, I ran through the finish line of the Moustache Dache.  For the week leading up to the 5k, I was filled with all sorts of emotions and goals.  On the day of, I just wanted to get to the starting line, and more importantly the finish line.  Overall, I ended up slowly jogging about 2 of the 3 miles and walked the rest.  When I was able to see Jamie waiting at the finish line, I somehow 'sprinted' the short distance just to make it into her arms.  With tears in her eyes, we hugged and I lost control of my emotions.  I sobbed in her arms, realizing what I had just accomplished and realizing how many more goals I have yet to complete.  I realized I am unstoppable and can do whatever I set my mind to!

With Thanksgiving in the past, I can now say how excited I am to get 'back on track' with Fit2Fat2Fit program.  We went off plan to indulge in the delicious holiday foods, but man oh man am I ready for my spinach shakes and chicken! On Thanksgiving morning I went to a 2 hour boxing class with a great friend/motivator Ginger.  She had thanked me for inviting her to class with me and then said how I motivate her..Unbelievable...I motivate MY motivator??  How does that even work?!!  Needless to say, that comment made my day and I strive to motivate more people. 

Non related update..I got a new job!! On Dec 11 I will start my position as a Clinical Therapist in a halfway house/jail.  It is one of my dream jobs and I am excited to be part of such a great team.  The only thing I will miss of my current job is the flexibility...but I can squeeze in my boxing and crossfit at other times.

Speaking of crossfit, we have changed gyms and start the new place tomorrow!  If you watch Extreme Weight Loss, this is the gym that Chris Powell goes to with the contestants.  I would die if I saw him working out with us (we did hear from members that he goes to the 5am class during filming).  This gym also allows us to use the equipment from 5am to midnight even if a class isn't going on. Exciting...not that I would attempt any dangerous WODS while a trainer is not there, but it is great to know I can go and use the rower, free weights, rings, etc if I have a late night at work!  If you want to check them out, the gym is called Bladium!

I think that's about it.  Ever since grad school, I have no longer enjoyed writing a lot :)   stay happy and healthy!!

Breaking up, breaking down, breaking in, and breaking out...

    Okay, so first things first.... HOLY CRAP!!! Dawn completed her first 5k! A-MAZING! Which leads to the first thing: breaking in. This means a lot of things right now... breaking into this new way of life, breaking in those running shoes (for Dawn of course, NOT me! haha), breaking in these "new" bodies that are still changing every day, etc. Also, I officially registered for a Spartan race! AHH!!! Kinda freaking out about it, but really cannot wait! More about that later...
     On to the next... breaking out. UGH! Like teenage acne status over here... we strayed a bit from the meal plan this week, and boy does it show! We had a few indiscretions this week, and for me it involved A LOT of dairy! Our cheat meal on Friday night was pizza at a friends house, which was delicious and painful! Me and dairy are not friends... I try so hard, but it just wants to fight me! I was never lactose intolerant before, but over the many diet programs we have been through I have taken dairy out many times and really only add it back in the form of cheese, but don't seem to know my limits. So, now that my body isn't having it all the time it resists when I do... with this comes severe stomach cramps, increased bathroom time, throat mucus and nasal congestion, and of course... break outs! NOT a fan, but it proves a quote I saw today "What you eat in private, you wear in public". You can't hide from your dietary choices! Because of these so called treat meals, we have so much food left in the freezer, I didn't even need to batch cook this week! While that is great for the budget, it shows how far off we were this week.
     So back to this 5k... Saturday morning was the Mustache Dache 5k in City park. The weather was perfect, Dawn was excited and nervous, and I couldn't have been more proud! She had on her newly made bucket list t-shirt, her tutu, and the cutest little braided pigtails. As she went and lined up on the starting line, I found myself getting a little teary. Never before would I have imagined this is where we would be. One night over dinner with friends (a marathon runner and her ironman husband) Dawn decided this was a goal she wanted to accomplish, and she signed up for it and started training. The truth of the matter is that the training took a backseat to many other things (crossfit, boxing, stomach bug, head cold, etc) and she ended up not preparing AT ALL after the first running accomplishment. Despite all that, she finished in under an hour and jogged the majority of it! As I saw her turn the corner toward the finish line, I began to well up with tears, and had the biggest smile on my face as she gave her last push and ran it in. I walked over to where she was and gave her a big hug and then... we both broke down. We sobbed and cried and smiled and celebrated. THIS is what we have been working for. THIS is what will keep us going.

     And finally... breaking up. This is a tough one. So, after much discussion and weeks of weighing pros and cons, we have broken up with our gym. There were many reasons for this decision, and it was DEFINITELY not easy, but we feel that in the long run it will be a good decision. I have nothing bad to say about the place we were at, and wish them nothing but the best. It really came down to short term goals, equipment, and scheduling. With that said, we will be starting at a new place after Thanksgiving and will post more about that later.
     It was a crazy week with a lot going on emotionally, physically, and psychologically. With all of that, I am a bit relieved to not have to batch cook, but it feels weird! Like I am forgetting something. I'm looking forward to the challenges of a holiday week though and to see how new behaviors react with old habits and my favorite holiday of the year!
   -Jamie

By the way... I didn't forget, we owe you measurements! Stay tuned....

I really kinda like how I look... and batch cooking.

     Oh heeyyyyy! Long time no type! So this is something interesting for me to be writing about, but I feel like it needs to be "said out loud" (typed right here) to make some sense. I got a haircut the other day, which is nothing new as it happens every 2-3weeks, but something about it this time... I found myself checking me out in the reflection of my car, the bathroom mirror, wherever I could. I spent some time really looking at myself two days ago which is something I have avoided for a very long time. For the first time in a very long time I liked what I saw. I liked my hair, I liked my smile, I liked the shape of my face, it was all so strange because I kinda didn't recognize the person I saw. I examined the newly developing muscles in my shoulders and the definition in my neckline... I can get used to this. I don't think I've changed my facebook picture or posted as many "selfies" ever before! Weird! Funny, new, exciting, encouraging.
     In other news... it's Sunday! And that only means one thing for me... BATCH COOKING!!! As Dawn mentioned in her last post, we are back on the fit2fat2fit meal plan and entering week 2 of it. Super simple with recipes and specifics on their website for free, which is unheard of in the world of meal plans these days! No products being pedaled, no brand loyalties, and gimmicks. Just real and attainable foods. So here's a couple pictures of what's going on this week for us.

Three different flavors of marinated baked chicken (teriyaki, Caribbean jerk, sesame ginger) and some seasoned roasted zucchini (original flavor Mrs. Dash). These will become 13 meals (4 will get broccoli though)

Sauteed peppers and onions with Southwest chipotle flavor Mrs. Dash (love that stuff- variety of flavors and all salt free)

Deli turkey, jalapenos, green bell peppers, onions, cilantro... This will be the filling for omelets 2 days this week and will be topped with salsa

Homemade jerky! I've been doing this for a couple weeks now (finally dusted off the dehydrator),and it's SUPER easy! I pick a flavor- last week was original jerky, this week was teriyaki; buy a 2lb London broil and slice it pretty thin on a bias (angle cut) and marinate overnight. I lay a single layer on each rack of the dehydrator and let it go on160 degrees for about 6 hours. This made 8 servings of 4 slices each! Also some hard boiled eggs for extra protein snacks since we get stupid hungry on lift days!!!

 

 

      We also have the most amazing spinach shake for breakfast every day. It's simple, delicious, and last time we did this program I ended up craving it when we changed to something else. To make 2 servings, we use 2 large handfuls of baby spinach, 1 1/3 cup almond milk, 2 scoops chocolate protein powder, 1 banana, 1/4 cup natural peanut butter and fill the rest of the blender with ice. AND... it's a really pretty color of green! LOL



     Last time we did this program we saw a lot of results and were very content with how it went, so we figured why try something new if we know what works. Next weekend we are going to redo our measurements from when we first started getting serious, will be 2 months at that point. Maybe we will include pics too, but we will definitely post our progress results here, so standby!
               -Jamie

Updates and new plan.....

Hello!
Its been 2 weeks since the last update.  Nothing exciting that we missed, although we did have some guests in from out of town. Unfortunately, that entailed eating out a bit and not making the best choices for snack foods. Although the food choices were not the best, we still went to xfit (and boxing) and walked A lot!  After realizing that while the results of all our hard work are visible, the scale does not want to move.  Jamie and I have both been stuck for a few weeks now so we decided we need a kick start! I have briefly talked about the program that helped us the most in previous posts, but now I would like to talk more in depth, and why I feel that it works. The program is Fit2Fat2Fit written by Drew Manning and his wife Lynn.  Those who are on my facebook page may have noticed I received a Happy Birthday message from them last week which makes me like them even more.  Yes, I have a man crush on Drew, yes my wife knows, but hey, whatever works right??!
So what is this plan you ask?  Drew is a personal trainer who never really 'understood' what obese people went through.  He believed the stereotypical claim that fat people are lazy, unmotivated, and choosing this lifestyle.  He took it upon himself to go on a 6 month journey of gaining weight through food challenges, overeating, not exercising, and not 'caring' in order to see what it is like. During that time, he would journal how he felt, videoed what he ate, and wrote a book! Once the 6 months was complete, and he gained almost 75 pounds, he took another 6 months to lose it all.  Why do I like this plan so much?  Because Drew knew what it was like. He felt how fat people felt, if only for a short time.  He experienced the fatigue, muscle aches, emotional journey, and the relationship issues that happen when one is obese.  He chose to do this to understand so many people.  And the plan to get back into shape was the easiest plan we have done to date.  Yes, it is boring and repetitive, but we saw results (mostly Paleo).  The first round I lost 40 lbs and I believe Jamie lost 35.  And that was just a matter a a few months. 
Did I drink Drew's koolaid? You bet I did.  I also drank the best spinach shake I have had in my life.  It is delicious, filling, super easy to make, and very convenient.  We will right about our success with Fit2Fat2Fit and include some of the yummy recipes that go along with it.  In the meantime, check out his webpage, www.fit2fat2fit.com.  He is currently doing a Fit2Fat2Fit Gluten Free challenge to show how going 'gluten free' if you are not celiac, may not be the best option.  We all are different in our short/long term goals, we all have different versions of health, and what works for me may not work for you.  Nothing is wrong.  Do what makes YOU feel great. 
On that note, stay healthy, stay happy and ask questions along the way. We are no experts, but we love to share our knowledge!

Sunday Funday...

     Sunday again... that means more planning, more batch cooking, and more blogging. Keeping it super simple this week on the food thing: Breakfast as usual, lunches will be mostly leftovers (as there always seems to be some of those around!),and two tasty recipes that we will alternate between. Crockpot Chicken Tikka Masala, and Dawn's friend Melinda gave us a recipe for a deconstructed stuffed cabbage that we made a huge batch of!
     For the cabbage we used one head of green cabbage chopped into bite-sized pieces, one large yellow onion diced, 3 cups canned crushed tomato, 2lbs ground beef, and 2lbs ground turkey. We seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, tamari, and a small amount of steak seasoning. (The recipe called for Worcestershire sauce but I didn't have any, so used the steak seasoning instead. Super simple: brown onions, add the meat, brown that, add the cabbage, sautee to your liking, add tamari, add tomatoes, season to taste. YUM! (This yielded 8 large dinner sized portions) No pics this week because I'm not sure if anyone is even looking at this enough to take the pics! (comments are helpful).
     Chicken tikka masala is from an online paleo crockpot recipe (http://popularpaleo.com/2013/03/20/slow-cooker-chicken-tikka-masala/). It's slow cooking as we speak. I made a couple adjustments to this one for our preferences. Dawn is not a fan of chicken thighs (which I love haha) so we used boneless skinless breasts cut into small chunks. Also, the only food she will says she will absolutely not eat in any form is coconut, so we substituted the coconut milk for a bit of sour cream that was left in the fridge that I thinned out a bit with some almond milk. We'll see how my lactose intolerance handles that one!
     On the snack side of things, Dawn likes greek yogurt a lot, so we get a big ol' box of it at Costco which lasts her a few weeks, but I'm finding that my stomach is even having trouble with the pricey non-dairy yogurts these days, so I'm trying a new treat this week that our Crossfit coach gave us for a simple paleo chocolate mousse that keeps the sugar low and helps to work in the healthy fats: 1 can whole fat coconut milk (chilled, then liquid part removed), 2 tablespoons of cocoa powder, and optional 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract. Whip this combination with a hand mixer (I will be using my kitchenaid stand mixer) until it reaches the thick fluffy mousse-like consistency and store in an airtight container. Other snacks we will be having this week: 100 calorie packs of almonds, an apple a day, and my new found favorite- sugar snap peas!
    It's not even noon yet, but everything is done for the week and put into the mass of tupperwares that take over the freezer every Sunday. Now the oven is self-cleaning (smoky stinky grossness thanks to bacon splatter) and we are getting geared up to go for a hike with an amazingly inspiring healthy friend! (Yes Ginger... that means you!)

     Please leave a comment or some indication that this thing is reaching someone out there so we know where to go with it or if we should write more or less often, or even at all. Thanks!
     -Jamie

What i lost

So our crossfit coach posted a motivational quote about sacrificing different things to meet our goal...she then asked us what we have sacrificed to achieve our own goal.  I thought about all the things I have lost.  in no particular order:

• My ability to sleep late...at 4:45am the alarm goes off and we head to the 'box'. 
• Some 'friends' that became toxic and no longer supportive of my future goals.
• heartburn after dinner
• the feeling of extreme fullness and disgust after Every. Single. Meal.
• The wearing of heels. I mean, my Nano's for xfit and being barefoot for boxing counts right?
• the desire to shop at Ulta, Sephora, Mac.  Yikes...it is now Dicks, Amazon, Finish Line
• hell, a few inches are gone too...
• The desire to sit on my butt and watch TV All. Night. Long.
• The lack of willpower
• The ability to say 'I can't do it'  - F*ck that.  I am Going to do it, or at least try my best!
• Pounds and Pounds of the past...literally and figuratively
• Lack of conversation starters..WOD anyone? Jab Cross Jab? 5K?

Those are some of the things I have lost throughout this journey.  Not too shabby huh?  Some things I have gained?

• Confidence
• shopping in more stores
• friendships
• self awareness
• Palm soreness
• muscle aches (the kind that feel great though!)
• Determination
• a new desire for my future (health coach!)
• having no limits
• the ability to push my body harder than it ever has been pushed
• the awareness to Love and Hate your coaches at the same time (sorry Jamie, Dan, and Renee!!)
• a life.

What are some of your losses and gains??? Please comment!

WOD, Rx, and PR... Victory!

     So we titled this thing 2chicks and a WOD, but have yet to talk about the WOD side of things. Today was a day that I wanted to share. Our gym took a week off last week so there wasn't much to talk about, especially since we admittedly didn't really stand up to doing things on our own. Today was our first day back there, and I felt like I had something to prove- not to anyone but myself, but who better.
     The alarm went off at 4:45am and we jumped out of bed, got dressed, got our things together and hopped in the car. We got there half expecting an absolute killer workout to be posted up on the board, it wasn't as bad as we had expected, but it definitely got things going. So we jumped right into the warm-up, which was a 400 meter run followed by high knees, butt kicks, side lunges, and a group stretch. We then worked on jump rope for a bit, and then the WOD (workout of the day)...
        3 rounds for time: 400 meter run
                                      15 Push press 75/55
                                      10 Bar jumps
                                      5 Burpees

     Okay, so to break that down a bit.... as fast as you can, complete the cycle 3 times starting with a 1/4 mile run, then an overhead barbell lift from a slight dip with the legs (not a full squat) at a prescribed weight (Rx) of 75lbs for men and 55 for women, then set the bar down and jump over it 10 times, and then burpees- drop to the ground in a squat position with your hands on the ground, kick your feet back into a pushup position, drop your chest to the ground and then get back to your feet and end with a jump and clap.
     Something happened in the warm-up that just got me going on this workout, it just clicked. I grabbed a 35lb bar, loaded each side with a 10lb plate and chalked up my hands. When the countdown timer beeped, I took off at a good solid pace and set my mind on two things: 1.) I would have a sub 20min time and 2.) I was gonna do the Rx weight and do it well. And both things happened! 19min 40sec and for the first time EVER I had a PR (personal record) and did an Rx weight. YES!!
     Dawn was right beside me, killing it herself! 23min 57sec with a 35lb bar! I hope she writes more about her experience with it, but she's at boxing right now getting her "Ali" on. So freaking proud of her and all she is doing towards her goals.
     What an awesome feeling to start the day on, especially a Monday! To set your mind on what you want and to actually do it is an amazing feeling that I could definitely get used to.
       -Jamie

Definitely check out the kickass gyms we use: Two Rusty Bars Fitness(https://www.facebook.com/tworustybars) with coaches Dan and Jamie Chrzanowski  and Title Boxing in Greenwood Village (http://greenwood-village.titleboxingclub.com/) with several coaches, but Dawn usually tries to get in with Renee Christensen.

Feed for the week

    In standard Sunday style, today was batch cooking day. On the menu this week is sweet potatoes and bacon for breakfast (going with eggs), sausage and peppers w/tomatoes for dinner, taco meat with black beans for another dinner option, maple tarragon carrots as a veggie side, and  I made some kalamata/tomato/feta stuff for a snack for Dawn. No recipes this week or links to anyone else's page, just some simple comfort foods. We also still have some meals left over in the freezer from last week that we will carry over into this week.

 

     In other news... Pretty low key weekend, but SUPER excited to get back to the gym tomorrow morning. One week off was crappy because it slowed our momentum but also very much appreciated since I had a stomach bug for the past 5 days. 

     I found this article the other day, which I thought was kinda ironic, but VERY helpful! http://paleoleap.com/paleo-troubleshooting-diet-diarrhea/ It's pretty interesting, and after reading the part about bone broth I got a wicked craving for a nice steamy bowl of pho. So we went to our favorite place for it and got a big enough bowl to bring home some leftover broth, which I have been sipping on and feeling much better. Also, per the recommendation of Coach Jamie (https://www.facebook.com/tworustybars), I've been drinking a ton of water and some coconut water in between (no sugar added) to stay hydrated. Feeling better enough to be ready to hit it hard at 5:15am tomorrow!

       -Jamie

Is this what I want??

I ran into an old friend a bit ago who has not seen me since my weightloss.  She commented how I looked good but then asked "is this what you want?"  I assume implying did I want to lose weight or did I get an awful illness that affected my health.  I smiled and said - absolutely, this is what I want.  I want this because of so many reasons.  Here's just a few:

• to not be out of breath when climbing stairs
• to have a better chance of living a long life
• to not worry about fitting into seats at restaurants
• to have more than a handful of stores to shop in
• to sleep better
• to enjoy life fully with no restrictions

and so many more.

Previously, Jamie talked about fat pride.  Something that I also have a hard time with.  Yes, I love myself and am proud of the goals I have recently achieved (moving to CO, buying a house, graduating from grad school, etc).  However, I do not like what limitations I put on myself due to my weight.  I do not have pride in my body.  I love the fact that I am 'healthy' and my legs keep me walking and my back keeps me upright, but I do not like the fact that my body is covered in fat.  Fat that will eventually kill me if I don't change my lifestyle.  Fat that has defined me for the last 25+ years.  I was always that fat kid.  My blood pressure is great, my cholesterol is unbelievable but do you see any fat elderly people?  NO...because they are DEAD.  So I am sorry I cannot have fat pride.  it is nothing I am prideful for.  there is nothing to be prideful for.  I have Dawn pride, but I am certainly not happy with where I was.  I am happy for the people that are proud of their weight and their size.  However, I do not believe for one moment that they are truly happy with themselves.  That is only my opinion of course. 

On a positive side note,
this month I am down 11 1/2 inches. that is almost a foot...holy cow...and I fit into a pair of jeans off the rack at old navy.  a size 18. I haven't been a size 18 in a long long long time.
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