results...

the only thing better than your own body looking and feeling better from your hard work is when people start to notice as well and pay you complements.  and lately a lot of my co-workers have told me i am looking skinnier.  in total i have dropped 8 pounds, which has come off gradually over the last several months, and am feeling a lot more toned, stronger and healthier.  i started to notice the transformation long before the numbers on the scale changed, but the results are keeping me motivated to stay on task.  i have posted this before, but it has been a while and i think it is a great reminder to stay focused on your fitness and health goals.

i am still learning how to manage food, because i hate it when i work out and eat well all week only to erase all my hard work come the weekend with alcohol and eating out.  so here are a few guidelines i use so that i can do it all and not feel deprived.

~sweat everyday.  whether it be a gym workout, run, walk, workout at home, etc.

~weeknights are for low carb meals, consisting of a protein and plenty of veggies

~eat consistently: breakfast = protein bar, lunch = salad or lean cuisine, high protein snacks or fresh fruit or veggie options, dinner = protein and veggies

~plan out your week!   i know that i have to be prepared for wine night with my girls and of course any other social activities during the week.  this week is a good example; tonight we have jarad's birthday dinner with friends at buffalo wild wings and another dinner out with friends on thursday.  i know that i will have to increase my work outs and plan ahead what i will order, so i don't go overboard.  also avoid the bread basket and chips and salsa, those can be lots of empty calories.

~weekends are a bit more relaxed with food choices, but we usually have a lot of social obligations which means food and alcohol.  so my goal is to try what i want, but not to over indulge on anything.  and if we are planning on eating out, i like to just do one meal out a day.

~if you go out and the portions are huge, eat half and take the rest home for another meal.  don't come to the restaurant overly hungry and don't leave uncomfortable stuffed.

~have snacks in your purse or at your desk to avoid making bad decisions when you are getting low blood sugar.

~sometimes when my boss leaves the office i will do a little workout, even if it is just a few pushups, planks or some sit ups.  and walks are good too to get refocused during the work day, wilfred appreciates it too.

little changes can have a big impact and i can only try my best each day to not be tempted and make good choices and get my exercise in.  it's not easy but i love the way i feel!