Happy New Year!

Before I head to bed I would wish everyone a Happy, Safe, and Healthy 2009. This is the year that we will all keep losing, and stay focused on our goals.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Back & Better Then Ever

Hello there readers, I just lost my whole article I just wrote, wow how frustrating. The last time I looked at a calender it was December 7th and now here it is December 31 and we are about to enter a new year just tomorrow. For most of you, you know where I have been. For those who are new or don't remember. I'm a hotel manager and I'm second in command. We recently lost our Food & Beverage Manager prior to the holiday parties rolling out. Well there I was left with a F&B Team and me to be the leader. We got through all the parties without to much bruising. I have to say under the circumstances we were given, it was a great sucess. There were weeks I was putting in over 70 hours. That really showed up to the dedication of my program when I jumped on the scale on 12/24 and I had gained 3.6lbs. Boy had I hit a sad moment during MY JOURNEY. I got back to it, and really realized I need to get back on track and get back to work. I did and was heavily rewarded this week with a 6.8 lb loss. I am starting to think that I might have been retaining water at last WI since I lost so much this week. That is like a Biggest Loser loss. Anyways things are great here.

I really think 2009 is starting off on a GREAT foot. As I'm entering 2009 49.4 lbs lighter. I really think this is going to be the year I recieve my promotion with my current company I'm with. I also am heading to Dallas on Jan 27-29 for some Revenue Management training from Hilton. I am then flying down to San Antonio on the 29th- Feb 1 to visit some friends and old colleagues. I think it is going to be a GREAT time. I have a lot of things to catch up on while I'm down there. "I'm coming home"---I use to live in San Antonio for 2 years back in 2005-2007 and really feel that is my home away from home. It is great I can get back, especially in this business.

I sit here and am raising my glass to all "YOU LOSERS" and say "CHEERS TO A GREAT LOSING 2009"

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

My Weight Loss

I've really been out of the loop for about 2 weeks. I don't know how I managed to lose weight when I wasn't going to the gym. I also was not strict with my choices of food, meaning I didn't pack a lunch. I would try and grab a sandwhich on whole wheat breads. I tried to eat fruit when I could etc. I still managed to lose 1.6 lbs per week, for a total of 3.2 lbs in 2 weeks. I'm still a loser.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~ Nathan

Celebrating My 26th Birthday

On December 14, 2008 I celebrated my 26th Birthday. The great part is that I am on a path to a life that will be ever changing. I am entering a new age, and on the road to a healthier life. I'm really excited for this new lifestyle. The sad part is that was my only day off that week, so I basically slept it away, and watched the Dallas Cowboys beat the Giants.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Where HAVE I been?

Well I would like to think that I have been a great long vacation....unfortunately that isn't even close to being true. The reality is I think I might have stated this before and that we lost our Food & Beverage Manager at the hotel. Starting December 5, 2008 the Holiday Parties have kicked into high gear. I have been covering my department along with being involved 110% in the Food & Beverage effort! I have been working an average of 12-14 hour days. I have been unable to make it to the gym on a consistent basis, which is tough on me mentally. I really enjoy going, and I know I will be back soon. I didn't want my readers to think that I abandoned you but when you are at work that long and it takes 1 to get there and back. Along with time to get ready, when you do finally get home, all you want to do is sleep.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Eating Well Magazine

This magazine is filled with recipes and great tips that can help you throughout your journey. The best part of this magazine is that you can submit recipes and their test kitchen will lighten them up, so we can all eat them. Now how many of us have family traditonal recipes that we would love to eat but can't eat them because of the calorie count. This magazine is a lot bigger and larger than most traditional magazines. This magazine also gets into why you may like sweets, for example. One of the articles I read said that you may light sweets if your grandmother was a person of a sweet tooth person.

You can get this at $4.99 at the newstand or $14.97 for 6 issues per year.

I give this 41/2 stars out of 5 stars!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

A Decent Weekend

Going into next week, I know that I have done pretty well after this weekend. I was able to stay within my allocated points. Which I have to say has been difficult to eat my points as work has been really crazy with holiday parties. Not that we didn't expect them to come, but without having a Food & Beverage Manager, means that I have been managing that department. Meaning I'm around lots of food all the time, and temptation has been running rampit. I have dabbled into a few things, and kept myself accountable, but have managed to do well over all.

My biggest issue is I have not had a whole lot of time to workout. I still plan on getting in at least 3 days of workouts in. I usually get in 5 so that is disappointing to me. Also it doesn't help that it is getting very cold up here in upstate NY. Tomorrow morning is suppose to be 10 degrees F. WOW that is cold, considering I go workout in the morning, in shorts, since I don't like to wear pants at the gym. Any ideas of how to stay warm, and comfortable.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

New Me by 2009 Challenge

I wanted to start a new challenge, and I was unable really to get motivated to do the same one I was with the Turkey Challenge. I wanted something different, some thing that wasn't so much tracking, as it took up a lot of my time. I decided to do a Blog Exclusive Challenge. It is called New Me by 2009. The challenge is to continue to lose weight and for every pound I lose I will put $5.00 in an envelope to be spent on something new for my new lifestyle (I plan on using the money for my new bike). For every pound I gain I will have to take away $5.00. For example if I lose 1.5lbs then I would put aside $5.00X 1.5=$7.50. My goal is to earn $50.00 within the next 5 weeks. My last weighin will be December 31, 2008. I'm hoping that evening I will have at least $50.00 in my envelope. This week I lost 3.4lbs so I put away $17.00 so I'm only $33.00 away from goal, if I continue to lose each week. It I any sets back then who knows what will happen.

For any of you who are interested in doing this yourself, then post a comment here, so we can follow along.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

The days after Thanksgiving

Weigh In was on Wednesday, and I was a bit scared that with Thanksgiving, I could have gained. I mean I was really good, but still it could have happened. I got on the scale for it to read 295lbs which is a loss of 3.4 lbs, so that is great. That puts my total loss to 43 lbs in just 13 weeks. I'm very proud of myself.

This past Wednesday I went down to NYC to watch the Radio City Music Hall Christmas Spectacular. It was awesome to say the least, and then we went to a restaurant called Tony's. It is a little Italian Restaurant in Time Square. Anyways they had great food. I ate Chicken Parm with Pasta, and I even had a Strawberry Shortcake. I know I shouldn't have had it, but there was no items on there such as broiled, grilled, or baked. I was kind of stuck, and I have never been bad, well today was my first.

Now it is over and back on plan!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

How did I do in the Turkey Challenge

For those who have been reading, you all know that I was working on a Turkey Challenge through Weight Watchers Online. The idea of this challenge was to have three goals. One was a weight loss goal. The second goal was a personal goal. The third goal was to change something in your life (or something close to this).

My goals were:

Goal 1: To lose 15 lbs in 7 weeks. I lost 24.6 lbs in 7 weeks! Goal Met!

Goal 2: To walk 70 miles in 7 weeks, this meant 10 miles a week! I walked 174.19 miles in 7 weeks, meaning I walked over 25 miles a week. I guess those elipticals and I have become friends!

Goal 3: To clean and organize my apartment 15 minutes a day for a total of 960 minutes. This goal I came up short, actually just over 4 hours short or 240 minutes short. I completed 718 minutes out of the 960 minutes. I still think this is a great achievement for me, as A I hate to clean and second I can't organize unless I want to and I organize enough at work, that I don't want to when I'm home.

Not that I'm making up excuses for Goal 3 but I would rather take the first two then the last one any day. I'm proud of myself and the effort that was put fourth to complete a challenge and to have some what GREAT results! I am very interested in getting into a "new me by 2009" challenge, but I'm not so sure if I will do a Weight Watchers Challenge, or a Blog Challenge. Stay tuned for my next part of my journey!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Taste Of Home Healthy Cooking

I don't what is with my obsession with magazines about health. I guess when you are dedicated to something like I am to my journey, you do get obsessed. Anyways I went to Barnes & Noble and picked up another magazine. Taste Of Home Healthy Cooking. I'm going to give you my view on this magazine. The issue that I picked up was the Special Holiday Issue that is to be sold until January 12, 2009. I guess I expected this magazine to have the same format of Weight Watchers did in theirs. Actually not even close. This magazine gives you about 75 different recipes of foods you will want. There are recipes for Chicken Pot Pie for about 9 points which is a complete meal to Beef Stew which is only 7 points per serving. I know these may sound high, but this is your whole dinner. There are some great low point desserts and appetizers in here. I really thought the magazine did an awesome job with the recipes. Where this magazine lacks is articles about healthy cooking or healthy alternatives to your every day recipes. If you are looking for a bundle of cheap recipes, this is your resource.

Get it for only $3.99

I give it 4 Stars out of 5 Stars!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Marie Antoinette Award

I am pleased to announce that I received the Marie Antoinette Award. This award is given to "real people, real blogs" and I received the award thanks to Lynne http://lynne-is-on-a-mission.blogspot.com/ who I met when she happened to show up one day and left a comment. Since that moment we have become a support line for each other. The other nomination came from Estela http://lasttime-atbat.blogspot.com/ who I met through Lynne. Estela found my blog through Lynne's webpage. Since then we have been supportive in each others weight loss journey.

I keep this blog as a piece of mind in my weight loss journey. On Weight Watchers I have met a lot of women, and very few men. I think it is important for men to have a view on their weight loss journey, and what is going through our minds in regards to life. The rules are listed below to nominate another blogger:

The Rules:
1. Please put the logo in your blog
2. Place a link from the person, from whom you received the award
3. Nominate at least 7 or more
4. Put the links of those on your blog
5. Leave a message on their blog to let them know

My nominations are

Kerrin from Girl On A Mission http://thisgirlonamission.blogspot.com/ . I met Kerrin, when she showed up on my webpage. She lives in MD, and is roughly my age. I have learned a few things from Kerrin such as planning my menu's ahead of time, to save time and to save money. Something I never use to do. She is a big Supporter! Thank you Kerrin, you deserve this award!

Pamela from Uncovering Pamela http://www.uncoveringpamela.com/ . I met Pamela once again when she showed up on my webpage. I really feel a connection to her since she has gone from being in the 300's to now being in 180's. This is something that I'm looking to do myself.

Havie from My Name Is Havalah http://havie23.blogspot.com/ is a young lady who is lives in New Zealand. Once again she found my blog through Weight Watchers. It is nice that I can inspire across the sea, and I like encouraging her as she is a nice young lady!

Aline from A Journey in New Zealand http://liloufrenchie.blogspot.com/ is another young lady who is living in New Zealand but I think she is originally from Switzerland. Another great person to get another view from.

Lynne from I'm On A Mission http://lynne-is-on-a-mission.blogspot.com/ . She has been a big supporter, and I really appreciate her always checking up on me.

Estela from Last Time At Bat http://lasttime-atbat.blogspot.com/ . Estela has been another big supporter, as she fights through her own weight loss.

Carlos from You're Gonna Need A Bigger Boat http://carlosthelarger.blogspot.com/ is someone who I met through Kerrin, and he writes some funny entries, and is another guy's view!

I want to congratulate each person for being there for me. You all do a great job on your blogs, and I ask that you keep up the great work!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Why Must there??

You know you always here how people must argue on the Holidays. I don' t understand why must there be arguing. I always dodge it because I usually don't get into those traps with my family. This year I wasn't so good. I was going through the food line, and there was this fruit salad (that turned out to be Waldorf salad). I asked my sister in law (who made it) what was in it. She turned around and said "just eat it". I said under my breath but in a normal tone facing the food line, "then I guess I won't then". I am not going to eat something that I don't know what is in the item, I mean how can I be accountable for this item, if I don't know what is in it.

Then there was dessert. I brought some Weight Watchers items for me to eat during that time. So my family sat down and eat my mother's famous mini cheesecakes. I reached over to my aunt and said this is only 2 points and I hate to see how many are in your small dessert. That is when my sister in law said "What does it matter, just eat your food, who cares"! Let's just say it was hard for me to bite my tongue on that. There was a ton of alarms and nasty comments coming to mind in system over load. I just didn't want a huge family fight to happen at my mother's.

All I can say is that some people do choose one way of life. Then there are those who choose to be healthy. I'm writing this to keep everyone motivate, as if you have family who aren't supportive "like mine" then I know it can be tough to stay on track, but YOU must continue, because you make a decision to CHANGE!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I'm Working on it

Just for those who already know, I was nominated twice for the Marie Antoinette Award from Lynne and Estela. I appreciate the nomination, as I strive to talk about what is important for me. It is the Holidays but I will be working on getting this up in full swing by the weekend.

Once again,

Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Wish You and Your Family all a....

I wanted to take the time before I head out to my bowling league this evening, that I took the time to wish each and everyone one of you who celebrate Thanksgiving a very Happy, Healthy, and Safe Thanksgiving. Enjoy the holiday, and as always

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Why Did I Cry, No One Got Hurt?

Why did I cry today, no one got hurt? Was I emotional or was this a victory. Wait was does the victory and no one getting hurt have in common, well continue to read and you are about to find out. Well the story is long, but I'll give you what I read in High School to do my English Papers, they are called "Cliff Notes". The story goes like this I started my weight loss journey and my new lifestyle and a very endeared committment on September 3, 2008. I have been going to the gym about 5 times a week, and have been eating my points. Well I guess the story starts a little further back then that. On April 16, 2007 I took my current job and I weighed 274lbs. 1 yr and 5 months later I had gained 64lbs. I was at 338 lbs and had never been this big. My clothes were tearing apart by the mass of my weight, I couldn't walk stairs, but I could still eat like no tomorrow. Then one day I said I'm tired of being big and that was on September 3, 2008. I have worked my heart out and been eating on my new lifestyle. This morning I climbed on the scale to see my new weight of 298.4lbs. I haven't seen a weight figure that started with a 2 in about 19 months. That is when the tears started to fall. It was true, that dedication and my biggest fan could work through anything to get anything I WANTED done! We still have a lot of work to do. I have lost a total of 39.6lbs in 12 weeks, and have less then 100lbs to lose to reach my goal. Guess what I cried but at the end of the day nobody got hurt except for my body being in pain (good pain) from my workout this morning. It is a great feeling. What is every a sweeter victory is that my goal was to be less than 300 lbs by January 1, 2009. I guess 2009 has come early for me. I have a lot to be thankful for tomorrow. Great health, Great Family, I still have a Job, and I have my Great Weight Loss!

Cheers to a Healthy Life!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Weight Watchers Magazine

I have been on this big kick to get more and more recipes. I seriously think I have a new found fetish/sickness. I just want more and more. The funny thing this use to happy when with food. I would just want more and more. I guess I have issues…lol. But then again who doesn’t. Anyways this isn’t about trying to solve or diagnosis if I have an issue. It is really in regards to the Weight Watchers Magazine that is on the news stand for a low price of $3.95. Now I’m not pushing you to get it (even though I think you should), I’m just going to give you my opinion (isn’t that what I’m here for, to give you my opinion/view). Anyways I purchased my first edition the other night at Barnes & Noble. I sat down and went page by page, and seriously it felt like a thriller book, as I wanted more and more. I feel asleep with it in my arms, and woke up the next morning reading more. It was filled with great options and tips for the holiday season. For example to eat 10 green olives versus consuming a handful of nuts. It showed you the point value. There was great gift ideas in there for those who are falling on tough times ( now I’m not stupid the country is fallen on tough times). It gave you templates to give out as gift cards, with phrases like “Personal Fashion Expert on your next shopping spree”. What a great idea for those who can’t really afford those gifts for family members. Then I got to my favorite section, can you guess it, yup you got it…RECIPES, there had to be like 20 different recipes, and I can’t wait to start trying them. I enjoyed the magazine that I will be getting the subscription sent to my house.

I give it 5 Stars out of 5 Stars!

“Let’s eat and be healthy”

~Nathan

I Have More Friends Today Then Yesterday!

I have more friends today then I did yesterday. What I really meant to say is that today at the gym I felt there was more of a mix of people then usually. Nothing against the people that go to my gym, but at 630am usually I find a lot of retirees. At 730am I find a lot of stay at home wives. If I go later, it is a great mix, and if I go earlier than 630am I usually find myself around a lot of business men and woman along with the occasional “meat head”. Here nor there, I just found it to really be interesting after 3 months of my new lifestyle that there would be a different mix especially on a holiday week. Of course I had my retirees but I also had a decent mix of younger people like me (which always leave the option of possible eye candy). It was a great feeling to see all these people out and working out so early in the morning. I just didn’t understand where they came from. I expect a huge pick up in membership at the beginning of 2009 as people will set goals for 2009. Then soon after 2 months I will see these new influx of friends slowly disappear as they go back to their way of life. I had to write about it as I really was shocked that I had more friends today then I did yesterday!

“Let’s eat and be healthy”

~Nathan

Is there a Polite Way to Release Air?

Now before you decide to dive into this entry please know that this is a guy writing this blog, and I sometimes write about guy things, even though they apply to everyday life for both males and females. Here we go with the entry. Is there a polite way to release air? What the title fails to mention is I’m referring to the thing that no one likes to talk about, that we all do each and probably every day, and that is “passing gas”. Is there a polite way to do this. Now before most of you say, yes go to the bathroom. Let me lay out the situation. Last night I was home working on my weekly goals, and that is too cook a couple of meals this week. I’m home with my Weight Watchers Cook Book the one that is Take Out Tonight, or something close to that. Anyways I found this great recipe for Turkey Enchilada Casserole. I made this recipe which I will supply in another entry for all of you. I ate it for dinner last night, and then went to work out this morning. Here I am all excited about this workout, and I get on my elliptical. I’m on there for about 12 minutes when I realize I need to release air. I mean I don’t want to get off, but what am I to do. I mean seriously do I actually get off my machine and clean it off and go all the way down the stairs to the men’s room to release this air. Boy what a possible long journey to just release some air. Let’s face it for those who go to a gym, you know when you walk in you can smell the sweat…LOL….Here I am in the debate of my life to either make a decision where I will have to endure the pain, or feel the possible shame. Well I have to say right or wrong, yes or no, I had to endure the possible shame, as I affected the air quality for possible patrons of my gym. Now there was no one in my general area, but who knows whether or not you could smell that air in another place.

My question I pose to my readers is how would you handled yourself?

“Let’s eat and be healthy”

~Nathan

Is OK to Shop for Eye Candy While Working Out?

I guess for those who really like treadmills, and elipticals this may not be an issue for you. For the person who is active and wants to always do something, standing on a treadmill or an eliptical for 1 hour can get boring quickly. I usually try to listen to music and keep my heart rate up. But I do catch a glimpse of the news here and there, and then there is always shopping for "eye candy". Once again I walk up to "my" eliptical, it is the first one in a row of 7. I don't know why it is mine, I just like that one. Together we have sweat lots and I have lost weight with it. Anyways as I stretched I happened to see this beautiful piece of "eye candy" working out in the corner. I noted her beauty, and hopped on my elipitical. I never really thought about it again, until I opened my eyes to look at the timer and it read 10 minutes, so I proceeded to look up at the television to see what the latest was about our President Elect and his new Secretary of State. It felt like someone was staring at me. I fought the feeling at first, but then it seemed to intense, so I couldn't fight the urge anymore to start looking to my right to see who was staring at me. I snapped my head quickly to my right and there she is working out and staring at me. She winks at me and turns away. I'm like Woooo feeling like the 90's character Joey from Blossom. Now I'm hooked I have to keep looking at her to see if she is going to look over again. I'm trying to fight the urge, but I can't it is like a kid in a candy store. I keep looking and she keeps smiling and winking at me. Then finally she nodded to me to come over. When I looked down at her hand she had a nice shiny rock on! I couldn't go OVER, I didn't want to start something that I couldn't finish. After she realized that I wasn't coming over, she shortly got off her machine, and walked passed me and winked again as she walked out of my view!

There I was still working out, and wondering what would have happened if I had walked over to where she was working out!

I guess it is ok to shop for eye candy while working out!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

It Was Time To Weigh In

Yes it was time to roll out of the bed and onto the floor, because I'm still tired, and oh wait it is now dark out when I get up. Well peeling myself up off the floor it is time to fight through the cat pile (Martin & Molly my two twin toddlers ---->cats) who await my appearance through the door! I walk into the bathroom, struggle to find the light to look myself in the face. Well Nathan did you make progress, are you ready for this moment? Did you work hard enough this week to lose and to continue to be a loser.....or are you NO Longer to be a LOSER!!!! I shut off the light and drag my feel along the cold hard wood floors over to the kitchen where I pull the scale out of the cabinet and place it on the floor. I tap it to turn it on, and it turns on. Here we go, the moment of truth, the moment of reality, ARE YOU READY YET? I got on, and the numbers start to calculate (feels like the biggest loser), and it lands on a weight of 300.8lbs.

Do you know what that means? I've lost 1.2lbs this week, and a total of 37.2 lbs in 11 weeks. I'm so happy to see I have been a LOSER for 11 weeks in a row. Well I guess my goal of 299.9 lbs by Jan 1 2009, might come EARLY. What a GREAT feeling!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I'm Up to Date

I believe I have added everyone who has currently wanted to join my journey! Let's not lose site that there is plenty of space on this road we are traveling. I know we have started walking down the road, we are always to add more. If you have friends send them here, and join the journey.

I am so excited about this journey, and TOGETHER WE CAN DO IT!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Another Busy Week

I swear that time flies when your busy! I continue to try and get to my blog, but between workouts and getting to work on time.....it has been very hard. I wanted to ensure you that things are still going well.

I wanted to make sure that everyone is starting the planning process for our big holiday next Thursday. I have already spoken to my mother, about what my needs are and between the two of us, have figured it out to a tee. Now I have no anxiety walking into this GRAND holiday. I love being around family, but I don't have to worry about being around family and over eating. I have done my planning, and so should YOU!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I have MY FIRST....

I have my First person who has decided to join me on my journey, down this road to a new lifestyle. Lynne has joined me, and I think this is great. Listen if you have friends, and they don't have blogs, it is okay. Tell them to stop by, they definitely can join the journey! I'll be awaiting your responses.

Cheers to another day of being healthy!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Join My Journey

I have said it before, I really feel like I'm on this road that is straight, and narrow, or curvy and wide. Along the way through my progress of weight loss, I travel down this road. I get to meet some great people. Some I may inspire, and some that will inspire me directly. What I think about the most, is the people I will and have already met along the way!

I decided yesterday it was time for me to invite the world to JOIN MY JOURNEY! Travel this road that is straight, and narrow, or curvey, and wide. Meet the people that I'm meeting, and most importantly, LET'S SUPPORT EACH OTHER! This means that we ask each other how are we doing, we check up on each other for weight loss. We are there for each other, we are here for you when you are having a bad day, or an Off Plan day! I know we all go to WW, but let's face it, you MIGHT need a closer network. I'm offering you the hand to JOIN MY JOURNEY! If you decide to join my journey, I will place your site on my Blog Role, and will check in with you every couple of days, and I encourage the others to do the same. I think this is a great way to continue down this road, as ONE! We can walk as One and United!

If you like to JOIN MY JOURNEY, I ask you leave a message in this tab, so I can add you to the Blog Role.

Best Wishes to each and everyone of you, who have decided to make that committment to a HEALTHIER TOMORROW!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I Finally Found My Biggest Fan!

When I was on the elipitical yesterday I did a lot of thinking, I mean I was on the elipitical machine for 66 minutes, so believe me I had time. I got thinking who was my biggest fan. I thought maybe my boss, but then I thought he still makes some comments about eating unhealthy items. Then I thought about some other co-workers, and they don't ask unless I say something. Then I thought for sure it was this one girl who works for me. Then I thought nope, because she falls into the same boat as some of the other co-workers who don't ask unless I say something. I even thought maybe our Director of HR at Corporate Level, but she has stop email me about it. Sitting there wondering who my biggest fan was, I started to go through my family. I thought about my mom and dad, and yeah it is neither of them. I thought it was my aunt who I spend a lot of time with, and realized she would feed me whatever I wanted. Then it dawned on me, this person is with me every stride, every step, always rooting me on. This person sits in the corner and watches me sweat, tells me one more, tells me you CAN DO THIS, keeps me on task all the time. Have you guessed who it is?

I'M MY BIGGEST FAN!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I Got Hit On!

I went to Olive Garden the other night after doing some Christmas Shopping with my aunt and uncle. We were seated by this guy, and then we started to look over the menus. Our server came over named "Rene" (Just trying to hide her identity) came over, and went over the menu. I asked for the Garden Fare menu, and I looked through it. I started to fixed my wallet that was filled with Christmas Money, and she came back. Rene asked if that was all for her, and I said "it could be?" Rene said I like how you put that, I replied, I like to leave my options open! Rene turned to me and said I like a guy who leaves his options open. It was from there that everytime Rene came to the table she would speak to me, and she started to flirt with me. From the winks, to the taps to other such motions! At the end she asked if I was on any special plan, and I explained my weight loss along with WW. We got into a long conversation about WW. As I was walking out Rene walked along side me and said maybe you should come in by yourself next time so we can talk. I have to say, that it felt really good to get hit on!

"Let's eat and healthy"

~Nathan

Embarrasing Moment! What A Great Feeling!

How can any embarrassing moment be a great feeling. Typically when we are embarrassed we turn red ( I know I do), and we really want to find a rock to hide underneath. True or False? I would have to say that mainly that is a true statement.

Wednesday is a very important day for me, first because it is my Weigh In day, so that means a lot to me. I keep hoping for losses, and big or small, I've been getting them. On Wednesday night is my bowling league. Yes I do enjoy a good game of bowling. I find it to be a great social event to get out and meet new people.

Anyways I was at home and realized that the time had flown by and I had only 20 minutes before the league started. I threw on my tshirt and a pair of shorts ( I wear shorts because I like to have the freedom of movement when I bowl). Anyways I headed out the door, and down the stairs to my car. I drove like a slight mad man to get there on time. I took out my bowling bag, and wheeled it in. I set up my 2 bowling balls, and waited to see some friends. After reminising over my weight loss, we were bowling a good friend of mine. The lanes turned on, and we started to warm up. As soon as I went to go throw my first ball my shorts started to fall down! They never fell off, but slid right down my butt. OH NO!!!!! I thought, god I can't go home and change, I'm going to have to bowl like this all night. Face got red, so friends started to ask. Is everything okay. I said yeah, I think my blood pressure went up (not telling them that my shorts almost ended up around my ankles). The rest of the night, I couldn't concentrate on bowling as I could only think about how my shorts kept falling off me. I even started to roll them up, and then people knew what the problem was. I wish I could have found a rock to hide under last night, but seriously I don't think there was a rock big enough for this embarrassing moment!

Great laughs!

"Let's eat and be healthy" and wear BELTS!

~Nathan

Turkey Challenge

For those who didn't know I joined a Turkey Challenge. Well I set 3 goals for myself. Listed below are my goals and also my current standings. Let's take a look:

Goal 1 To lost 15 lbs

Goal 2 To walk 70 miles

Goal 3 To organize and clean my house 15 minutes a day for a total of 960 minutes before Thanksgiving.

Here are my current standings:Goal 1 -21lbs/15lbs

Goal 2 141.67/70 Met this goal

Goal 3 558m/960m Still have a lot to do here!

I have met 2 of my 3 goals with only 15 days left to Thanksgiving. I will really have to work hard at goal 3, and it is my weakiest habit. Well root for me, to keep this great Challenge Going!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Goals for Next Week 11

I guess I got messed up in which week I'm in. I've been on WW starting 11 weeks. Here we go for the goals!

Goal 1: To walk at least 19.99 miles

Goal 2: To drink at least 6 glasses of water daily

Goal 3: To earn 38 Activity Points

Goal 4: To workout out at least 5 times (gym/videos)

Goal 5: To lose at least 1.2lbs by next WI!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

How did I do with the Weekly Goals?

Week 9 Goals

Goal 1: To walk at least 22.5 miles-I only walked 16.68 miles. This is still good for me, but I know why I didn't achieve this goal two weeks in a row. Last week I just missed, but this week I did at home workout videos, so I didn't get any eliptical workouts in for those days.

Goal2: To get in at least 37 AP's -I actually got in 39 AP's last week so I met this Goal!

Goal 3: To drink at least 6 cups of water each day. Failed again, going to really get on this!

Goal 4: To go to the gym at least 5 times. Didn't go to the gym 5 times, but the 2 days I didn't go I did workout videos. I still consider that like going to the gym. Goal Met!

Goal 5: To lose 1.4 lbs this week. I lost 2.6lbs this week, so Goal Met!

Check back to see Goals for next week!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Huge Victory!

Today was weigh in for me, and I scored another great loss of 2.6 lbs. This makes a total of 36lbs in just 10 Weeks.

The reason I stress this, is because if I can do it then I know YOU CAN DO IT.

EVERY DAY EVERY MINUTE DO IT~

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Video Workout: The Biggest Loser Cardio Max

You have all seen the famous NBC The Biggest Loser show and the 3 personal trainers. In this video you get all 3 trainers to work through three different levels.

Bob does level 1
Bob starts with 5 minutes of warm up, and if you are not in shape (like me) you will probably have your heart rate up after the warm up. Then he takes you into a 20 minute action packed workout, where you will use (2 dumbells, if you don't have them then don't worry about it). Bob takes you through various workouts from jumping rope (no rope is needed), jumping jacks, lunges, and various others workouts. He gives you great direction, and he also really pushes you. I felt very connected to Bob during the workout and to be honest, it felt like he was standing right there with me. Then at the end he gives you a 5 minute cool down.

Jillian does level 2
Jillian does a 5 minute warm up and a 10 minute intense workout, with another 5 minutes to cool down. I have not actually done this workout, but have viewed it. I really think she is going to kick your butt.

(I forgot her name, the blonde) does level 3
Here once again you will follow the same time constraints as Jillian. I have viewed this section, but have not done it yet. It looks as if the other two sections are harder than her section.

All in all this is a great workout video, I would buy it just for Bob's workout. I also like the feature that you could customize your own workout through the menu function, allowing you to get more of what you want and less/none of what you don't want.

I give this video 5 dumbells out of 5 Price $10.00

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Video Workout: Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred

You have all seen her on the famous NBC The Biggest Loser show as one of the personal trainers. She is known as one of the toughest video workout trainers that is currently out there. You are about to read a quick review of the video.

The video is broken down into three different levels (1/2/3) which works great for beginners, intermediate, and advanced. For me I started at level 1, and I suggest most first timers do as well. Before you pop your new DVD into your player, make sure you have purchased a Yoga type mat and 2 lightweight dumbells (2.5lbs to 10lbs). Now before you watch the video make sure you have a towel (for sweat) and a bottle of water (to keep you dehydrated). Now it is time to start the video.

The most annoying part of the video is Jillian gives about a one minute speech everytime you turn it on, and you can't fast forward it. From there you pick your level. Her workout is broken down to Strength/Cardio/Abs with a format of 3 minutes of strength/2 minutes of Cardio/and 1 minute of Abs. From there you will do what she calls 3 circuits/or 3 sets. Once she has kicked your butt for a total of 18 minutes without any rest between the sets she gives you a minute or so to cool down, and then throws you out the door wanting more!

I give this video 4 dumbells out of 5 Price $10.00

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Where Has This Loser Been?

Well I'm not really calling myself a loser....but then yet again I am calling myself a loser. I'm losing weight, am I not? I guess for all who are losing weight, I guess we are all a big BUNCH of LOSERS! Boy I never thought that it would feel good to be a LOSER, but BOY it does!

Before I start writing on my blog today about all the things that have happened, I thought I should tell you all where have I been. No nothing happened, and NO I didn't run for President, and NO I didn't start a new business, and NO I haven't won a contract with Calvin Klein to model clothes. I've been doing what most Americans do at least 5 days a week, GUESS, you are almost there, did you guess yet, YES that's right I've BEEN AT WORK!....Not something I'm totally excited about but I was giving about 60 hours worth of training classes to our team members at the hotel I work at. Being there and then at the gym, has really left a whole lot of time to Blog. But I have kept on track with my journey!

Till then...
"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

What's Going On

I've been very busy lately with work. I have been giving training classes at work. My days have been like 11 or 12 hour days. I can say once I'm done for the day, the last thing I want to do is come home and get on my PC. That is why I haven't been around daily, but every few days.

I have been on Weight Watchers for over 2 months now with a total weight loss of 33.4 lbs which for me is huge. For those who have been following along since the beginning, would know that I gained 64lbs in a year and a half after taking my current job. It is a great feeling know that I have lost more than half of what I gained when I started this job. I still have 31lbs to lose, just to get back to where I was a year and a half ago.

Turkey Day Challenge is going well for me as I have three goals. My first goal was to lose 15lbs, and I have lost 18.4 lbs since I started the challenge. From there I wanted to walk a total of 70 miles, and I have walked a total of 128 miles. Now I'm trying to double my original goal. Goal 3 is to clean my house 15 minutes a day, and I'm still working on this!

My personal goal was to be below 300lbs by January 1, 2009. The reason for this is I want to start my new year off with a 2 as the first number in my weight. With currently being 304.6 lbs, I see me being below 300 lbs before Thanksgiving in most cases. Not that I'm trying to make this a challenge, but I think I definitely can!

Other than that I've have doing well, and focusing on my job and weight loss! For those who are interested in leaving a note. PLEASE do so!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Week 9 Goals

Week 9 Goals

Goal 1: To walk at least 22.5 lbs

Goal 2: To get in at least 37 AP's

Goal 3: To drink at least 6 cups of water each day.

Goal 4: To go to the gym at least 5 times.

Goal 5: To lose 1.4 lbs this week.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

How did I do with the Weekly Goals

Week 8 Goals
These were my week 8 goals. Now one thing I fail to do is actually compare my daily results to the weekly goals, which I need to start doing.:

Goal 1: To walk at least 22.5 miles within the week. Any exercise mileage and or walking throughout the day will count towards this mileage. I walked a total of 21.91 miles, just missing this goal!
Goal 2: Go to the gym at least 5 times this week I went to the gym 5 times last week. I was able to do 66 minutes on the eliptical with an average heart rate of 143, and 30 0f those minutes above 155.
Goal 3: To drink at least 6 glasses of water daily: I failed misserably at this!
Goal 4: To lose at least 1.0 lbs this coming week I lost 4 lbs this week, so I blew this goal away!
Goal 5: To get in at least 35 Activity Points. I got in 39 AP's so I did well here too!

Stay tune for more goals for week 9.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Big Weigh In

Yesterday was my weigh in day, and after only loosing .4lb last week. I was a little nervous before I got up on the scale. Thoughts were going through my mind that may I had hit a bump in the road. When I climbed onto the deadly cold scale, it took a second to calculate. Those seconds seemed to be a lifetime. The number popped up 304.6, which means I have lost 4 lbs. I couldn't believe my eyes. This is a huge victory for me. I was so proud of my hard work! It's back the gym for some more workouts this week!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Big Victory on Sunday

I went to the gym on Sunday morning, and I wasn't sure what fitness activity I would be doing. I decided to get on the elipitical and start a workout. Afterr 66 minutes and 4.23 miles I had completed this huge accomplishment. This is the first time I have ever been able to stay on an eliptical for that long. I had an average heart rate of 143, and for about 30 minutes my heart rate was higher than 155. It felt so good after the workout knowing I was able to make this accomplishment come true. I have to say right afterwards, I thought I was going to fall right over because my legs were still moving forward. I am very proud of myself for this accomplishment.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Celebrating 2 Months of Healthy Living

Yes that is correct, back on September 3, 2008 I decided that I was tired of being overweight. I was tired of having health issues. I was tired of being ut of breath after a flight of stairs. It was this day that I started this journey that I'm on. The road to my new lifestyle. It is today that I am celebrating 2 GREAT Months of Healthy Living. This is a huge success for me, as it hasn't been easy. The only thing that has been easy is to fall off the wagon. I have had to dodge many obstacles to get to this point. There are going to be many more obstacles after today. Cheers to good healthy living!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Saturday November 1, 2008

Well woke up early because my cat Molly wanted me to get up, at 7am.....sometimes they act like children. Well I did a few things around the house, and about ready to go to the gym for a workout. I think I might go for like 1.5 hours. It's my day off, and what better way to spend it before going out to dinner tonight with my aunt and uncle. Other than that I expect a calm day off from work. I don't get too many weekends, so I try to enjoy them as much as I can when I'm not at work.

In 2 days I will be celbrating 2 months of living the healthy lifestyle!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Bicycle for Christmas

That's right I have asked my family to purchase me a bicycle for Christmas. I thought it would be a great way to travel in my journey towards my new life. I never knew how expensive bikes could be as the one's I'm looking at are anywhere from 300-500. Plus on top of that you have to get your ammenties, that is a MUST! Then there is the fear that I haven't ridden a bike since I was like 7 years old due to my weight. Mainly because the seats use to hurt something fearce. That is why I'm looking at getting a "tractor" seat. This seats are really padded and looking like a tractor seat as they are a lot wider than a traditional seat. Then there is the fear of, do I remember how to ride a bike anymore (I think I can pick this up pretty easy...LOL). I thought this would be a great way to travel in my journey. I am really excited, and can't wait till Spring comes so I can go riding.

If you have any advice about purchasing bikes. Please drop me a note here or email me via nknightes@gmail.com

Thanks!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

More About Thursday

I was at work till about 10pm last night, and when the night roles around.....I can get myself into trouble. I hadn't had dinner yet as of 8pm. It was so tempting to call the TGIF Like restaurant that is in our hotel and order dinner, as I receive a free meal as the Manager On Duty. I knew if I fell in for that trap I may get myself into some trouble. I decided to go with Plan A and eat the sandwhich I had brought along with some other items that I needed to consume. I am doing very well this week with trying to stay on plan.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

New Weight Tracker

Good Morning Everyone,

Just wanted to update those who are following my blog, well today I added something new to my blog. I have listed on the sidebar my weekly weight losses. I thought this might be helpful for those who want to follow along. Well what a great day here in Upstate NY.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I walked 100 miles

I am celebrating the fact that I have officially walked over 100 miles within 8 weeks. I could never have even thought that I could or would put that kind of mileage on this body in just 2 months. I'm so proud of myself, as this wasn't easy. This included a lot of early mornings that included lots of exercising. Yesterday I set the first 100 miles in my journey. I know I have many more miles before I will complete this journey, and hit Maintenance. Till then

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Week 8 Goals

This is only my second week setting weekly goals for myself. I have been On the Plan for 2 months. I've lost 29.4 lbs in 2 months which I am very satisfied with. Let's see what the goals are for this week:

Goal 1: To walk at least 22.5 miles within the week. Any exercise mileage and or walking throughout the day will count towards this mileage.

Goal 2: Go to the gym at least 5 times this week

Goal 3: To drink at least 6 glasses of water daily:

Goal 4: To lose at least 1.0 lbs this coming week

Goal 5: To get in at least 35 Activity Points.

Check in to see how I do this week.

"Let's eat and be healthy."

~Nathan

How did I do with the Weekly Goals

Last week I set some goals for myself. Listed below are the goals for last week, let's see how I did.


Goal 1 To walk at least 15 miles by next Wednesday. This can be counted by walking during the day, or exercise miles. I walked 17.72 miles so I made it!

Goal 2 To stay within my points and to not use any Weekly Points. This means that I can eat my daily points, and up to my Activity Points, but absolutely no Weekly Points. I made this goal as I never ate any weekly points.

Goal 3 To earn at least 43Activity Points this week. Now I did an average over the past 4 weeks, and I've earned on Average 38. This means I'm moving it up by 5 Activity Points. This goal I didn't meet as I only earned 31 points. There was two things that caused me not to meet this goal. One is I wasn't feeling well this past week, only getting in 4 days at the gym. The second reason would be I obviously didn't push myself hard enough, resulting in a small loss.

I will set goals for next week, so check back to see what they are.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Dooms Day Came Today

I have been running wild for 7 weeks with some great weight losses. I have lost a total of 29 lbs in just 7 weeks. I know this sounds like a commerical, and the reality is it isn't. I knew one day this would come to some kind of hault, and guess what this was the week. I hopped on the scale, dreading the fact of Weigh In this morning. I waited for it to load, and hopped on and it read 308.6 which is a loss of 0.4 lbs. Not a typical loss for me, but still a loss. I have to say this had to be my toughest week. This will give me the right motivation moving into next week, knowing that if I don't beef it up, we will have a gain next week!

See you then

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I Feel Fat in My Clothes Today

Today I'm at work, and I just really feel fat in these clothes. I really feel like I'm having a complex. Normally my uniform is starting to hang off me, but today I really fell like I'm gaining weight. Could this be true, that I may be gaining weight, and I don't even know it. Could it be true that my 7 week loss is over this week with a gain? I really can't wait to get out of here and home to the scale, that is when I will be relieved or disappointed?

More to come..........


"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

I WAS TRAPPED!!!!

That's right I was trapped at the local Off Track Betting facility near my house yesterday from 11am to 7pm. Yesterday was the Breeder's Cup for Thoroughbred Horse Racing. Which I'm a big fan of. The restaurant is called Martel's and to say the least it is pretty much burgers, wings, grease, and very little healthy stuff. Then again who goes there to eat healthy! Did I mention they don't allow any outside food into the OTB. Well I had to plan accordingly, after careful review of the menu of like 10 times. I decided I would have a Ham & Cheese Sandwhich on Rye with vegetables and no chips! I drank over 60 ounces of water while I was there, so at the end of 8 hours I felt like I had done well. When I left it felt like the doors had opened, and I was no longer trapped in this confined area. What a relief! Fought through another temptation!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

How Good Is those Dunkin Donuts Eggwhite Flatbreads

I can tell you that if I'm in a hurry, and I need something to eat right away. Then they are a good alternative to what I know I could get myself into. They are only 6 points for the whole meal, which isn't bad at all. The flatbread itself is pretty delicious. You don't honestly even know that you are eating eggwhites. As far as the turkey sausage, it is ground up so you don't even know it is there. Then there is I think ground up spinach in there as well, another item that you can see but easily missed. Overall I do enjoy eating them, and I would give them 31/2 forks out of 5!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Friday October 24, 2008

Today was a good day so far, and it has seriously zoomed right by. I was up early this morning at 630am, trying to get ready for the gym. I was at the gym bright and early at 730am. I worked out a total of 1 hr and 30 minutes. That included some cardio and weight training. From there I went home, but I stopped at Dunkin Donuts for a Egg White Flatbread which is only 6 points. I ate one of those then headed home to do some house work.

It was then time for work. I've been at work for about 6 hours now, and will be leaving in the next couple. Looks like a very good day for me.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Thursday October 23, 2008

The sun has set, and the moon is out shining, so that means just another day has passed. That is a good thing or bad depending on how you look at it. I can tell you how I look at it, I see it as another day that I'm living healthier then I did before. Now I know I'm doing very well as I have lost a total of 29 pounds in just 7 weeks. I am really striving to be below 300 pounds before January 1 2009 and it looks like I'm well on my way, which is an awesome feeling.

My biggest concern is that I've been on this program for 7 weeks, and it doesn't feel like I'm dieting anymore. I kind of eat what I want and just record it. Granted I pack a lot of meals and I don't eat out that much anymore. I guess I just choose healthier options. I just think this has become more of a lifestyle then it has a diet. I was the biggest non believer that I would ever consider this a lifestyle and not a diet.

What do I do now, well I think that is simple. I must choose to eat healthy, exercise, and oh by the way did I mention exercise! Yes that is truly what I have strived for. I want to work out, and I get into a funk when I can't get there. Like this evening, I couldn't get there because I'm still at work. I could have gone this morning, but the fear of not being able to get these much needed errands done was a great concern. I got the errands done, but now I lack at the exercise. I will be up early tomorrow to get to the gym. Tomorrow our gym is actually closed so I have to drive like 20 minutes to get to the nearest gym.

Tomorrow is another healthy day, and I plan on start reading some dieting books in the next few weeks, about different plans. If I find anything worth a note, I'll let you all know.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Goals for next week

I wanted to set some weekly goals for myself, and since my Weigh In is on Wednesday, I thought today would be a great day to set some goals.

Goal 1 To walk at least 15 miles by next Wednesday. This can be counted by walking during the day, or exercise miles.

Goal 2 To stay within my points and to not use any Weekly Points. This means that I can eat my daily points, and up to my Activity Points, but absolutely no Weekly Points.

Goal 3 To earn at least 43Activity Points this week. Now I did an average over the past 4 weeks, and I've earned on Average 38. This means I'm moving it up by 5 Activity Points.

Check in next week to see how I do this week!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Turkey Challenge

For those who didn't know I joined a Turkey Challenge like 5 weeks ago (this Thursday will be 5 weeks). Well I set 3 goals for myself. Listed below are my goals and also my current standings. Let's take a look:

Goal 1 To lost 15 lbs

Goal 2 To walk 70 miles

Goal 3 To organize and clean my house 15 minutes a day for a total of 960 minutes before Thanksgiving.

Here are my current standings:

Goal 1 -11.5lbs/15lbs with a Weigh In today

Goal 2 84.05/70 Met this goal

Goal 3 223m/960m Still have a lot to do here!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Wednesday October 22, 2008

Today is Weigh In and I'm sitting here waiting for judgement day. This could make my day or make me mad at myself the rest of the day! I have stayed within the plan for most of the days. One day I did eat my AP's and 5 weekly points. Now this is a first for me, so I'm hoping that it doesn't hurt the weigh in. Other than that I've been good, I've really tried to stay on plan. I have gotten in over 40 Activity Points, which I thought was great.

Sunday I went to the Buffalo Bills game and enjoyed myself even though they didn't have power for half the game. I will update with pictures soon, so you can all share that experience with me.

I have to say last week was a tough one, but I got through it. Cheers to another great week.

"Let's eat and be healthy"
~Nathan

Thursday October 16, 2008

Yesterday was the day we got inspected from Hilton Corporation, and boy was it tough in the beginning. Anyways I did eat a sandwhich before heading into the office, so I knew I at least had one meal in me. We were able to break away for lunch so I had a turkey burger with cheese (no bun) with brown rice. It tasted great and went down well. We had to rush out of there to go back to our inspection. We ended up with a 95% score which is awesome (highest ever). I finally left at 8pm (12 hours) from the office to head home. Stopped at Subway to get myself a sub, and boy it tasted so good. For such a stressful day, I was still able to stay focused, and not get myself into trouble.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

What's The Story About Jared Fogle?

Recently he visited Albany, NY in promotion of a walk this weekend for the American Heart Association. Don't forget he was here to also put a plug in for Subway Subs. Now I'm a huge fan of Subway, so don't think I'm bashing them. I guess I never knew the story of Jared Fogle until recently. Let's face it, we all know him as the guy who ate Subway Subs and lost 245lbs, right. Well.....close, I've never heard him say this in a commerical but supposedly he also walked for 30 minutes a day while on his campaign of Subway Subs. He has never stated if he ate only 1 six inch a day or was it 3 six inches a day. Now he stated in an interview that he lost 94lbs in the first 90 days, and then lost his complete 245lbs in just 1 year. I don't know if that is humanly possible. From there he was still in college, so his friend in college decided to right a story in the college newspaper. Students started to read it, and then the local newspaper showed interest, and slowly from there he got into Subway Subs hands. From there he basically got hired to commericals.

My biggest problem I have with this whole story is who is the one to say that this isn't all made up. Okay so you could check his medical records. From there who is to say that he only had 1 six inch sub a day so he starved himself. Who is to say that he wasn't doing something up. It just feels like he lost all this weight and then showed up on Subway Subs porch. I just think this might be too good to be true~

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Fighting Temptation

I just wanted to write this quick piece before I hit the hay. I went bowling tonight, and when you are out you like to let your hair down. That may be the case, but if you do, and don't fight the temptation you could do yourself a bunch of damage. Tonight while I was bowling I went and chose a couple of Diet Snapples as my preferred beverage tonight at the bowling alley. While I was sitting down and enjoyed my drinks, a couple of guys I was bowling with say ah come on have a beer. I said no thanks, I'm trying to watch my weight. One said ah it is only one beer and it is Bud Light. I said I know but after loosing 26.5 lbs in 6 weeks I'm not about to risk putting it back on. I then walked away to go bowl. If I had allowed them to give me that beer and not fight the temptation, I'm not sure what number we would have stopped at. I'm not saying like 5 or 6, I'm just saying if you intend on having 1 and 1 turns to 3, well then you are looking at roughly 6 points. I would rather have 6 points of Skinless Boneless Chicken Breast then have 3 beers. You really need to fight these temptations, even though they are not easy to do.

I wish you all Good Luck at this task!

"Let's eat and be healthy!"

~Nathan

Wednesday October 15, 2008

I don't know if I should say today was a tough day or a great day. Let's start with the bad. I was driving to the gym, and my boss called me from the hotel to tell me our inspector was coming in two months early. He would be arriving tonight....the O $hit bells and whistles went off. In a round about way the boss asked what time could I get there, and how long could I stay for. Well I went in for 6 hours on my day off. This means I have to work 6 days this week, and will work 11 days straight before I get a day off.

Now that I have stated the bad, here was the good and great news of the day. Before I went to the gym for my big weigh in today, I went for a 30 minute walk. Worked up a pretty good sweat for it being nice and cold out. Anyways from there I went to the gym and weighed in and lost 2.5 lbs. I was hoping for a 3 lb lost, but I'm still happy with the 2.5 lb lost. From there I put in a nice high intensity workout today. First 25 minutes on the eliptical going 9.0+ mph at times. I had the heart rate up there, which is always a great feeling. I then put in a great leg workout for about 35 minutes. This all yielded 10 AP's for the day with me getting in almost four miles of walking/exercise.

Now this evening I have my bowling league, which I always break a sweat in. I'm probably the only person who does, but hey I'm me, and I'm okay with that. Well that might earn me a couple more AP's before the night is over. Overall had a super day, even with the bad news.

For anyone who reads my blog, I would like to get to know you, and see how you are making out with your journey. We all are walking this road to recovery, and more the marrier. I'm excited to be on this journey.

I've lost 26.5 lbs in just 6 weeks!

YOU Can Do IT!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Tuesday October 14, 2008

Another great day being On Plan. Yesterday I was at the gym first thing in the morning. I did an eliptical and upper body workout. I even got in 7 glasses of water in which is huge this was by the end of the workout. Then from there it was time off to work.

At work I had a great day, I ate leftovers, and have lots of fruits, and some nuts for snack. I find the apple and 1/4 cup of nuts seems to be a great fulfilling snack that sometimes hold me over the next meal period. Which in my business is a great thing, as in the hotel business we eat when we can. We don't have set times. I wish but it isn't reality.

I came home and felt like a deli sandwhich, which I almost ended up at a Italian Restaurant last night because they make some great subs. But I knew going in there would lead to 2 slices of pizza and a sub, which is more points then I needed for the day. I drove by the restaurant and on my home I went. I was proud of myself of not stopping, as I really wanted to go there. I went home and made myself a sandwhich with a Weight Watchers Wheat Bun, Lorraine Swiss Cheese, Turkey Ham, Spicy Mustard, a little of Fat Free Italian Dressing, and some veggies. Well then I had a small amount of left over potatoes where I added 5 sprays of I can't believe it not butter spray (best stuff ever). That was my dinner. I also had a Weight Watchers dessert. It was the Mint Chocolate Sundae, and boy for 3 points is well worth it. Then I watched a little television last night. Got tired at around 9 pm, instead of fighting that urge, went to bed pretty early so I ended up getting up on Wednesday at 615am. This allows me to start my day off early!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Monday October 13, 2008

Yes today was Columbus Day, and for most it was a holiday. For those of us who work in the hotel business, it is not considered a holiday. Which means I had to work. I have been going to the gym, but at times I just don't want to be there. I just don't have the energy, or want. It feels like it is a chore. I do it anyways because I know it means a better tomorrow. Those workouts are always the toughest. Sunday and Monday I came home from work and slept about 4 hours each night. I find this to be interesting since I normally don't have this habit. Then again years ago I didn't have the habit of working out.

I have to say that Weigh In is on Wednesday, and overall I'm feeling pretty good about it. I think a 3lbs loss in my feature. I've been very good, and getting that workout is very important. I did make a great dish last night. I started with the Baked Chicken Receipe and decided to add some crushed Almond, Pecan, and Walnuts to the outside to kind of coat it. This allows for some healthy oils, and Omega 3. I have to tell you, that chicken was better than any Shake N Bake Chicken I have ever had.

"Let's eat and be Healthy!"

~Nathan

Sunday September 12, 2008

Well finally got home from the hotel today at 415pm. Just in time to watch my Dallas Cowboys. It was soon after the half time that I would fall asleep for about 2 hours (too bad I don't get any activity points for that). When I woke up I found out my team had lost, and it was time for dinner. After a vegetable pot sticker for lunch, I only had 4 points for dinner, along with 3 Activity Points. I still have 35 weekly points (but don't like to get into that). I looked throughout my freshly stocked kitchen for something quick, and delicious. I landed on a Turkey Ham sandwhich with Alpine Lace Swiss Cheese with lettuce, tomato, pickle, spicy brown mustard all on a new item I found called Light Roll Outs (Walmart sells them too, they have 90 calories 1.5 g of fat, and 9 g Fiber WOW). Anyways made my sandwhich and then decided to pull out a steamed single serving of peas from the freezer. In about a minute and thirty I had a delicious dinner. Yet I had nothing to drink, that was easy fill up my 32 oz glass with water and lemon juice. Boy was that a great meal, and it worked out to only cost me 7 points. I guess I will end at 0 today, which is what I was striving for. Well I hope you all are living the idea of

"Let's eat and be healthy!"

~Nathan

Niagara Falls Canada Trip

I Got Stuck In The Kitchen

This morning at the hotel I got stuck in the kitchen. Not literally, I mean there were no bells and whistles from the fire department, or a big can of crisco. We were busy, so with my Food & Beverage background, I usually end up in the kitchen cooking away. But wait everyone knows how hard it is to cook, and not eat while you cook. The old Kitchen phrase is "don't trust a skinny chef". Well I had to cook the bacon, sausage, ham, cut fruits, and make pastries. Wow all things I like, okay I love!!!! Well I can't say that I didn't have a slice of bacon or a sausage, because I did. I also did have lots of fruit. This time around I measured and made myself account for what I put in my mouth. This way yes I did have bacon and sausage, but in the past I probably would have had a 1/4 to a 1/2lb bacon (which is only like 4-10 slices).

Then when I got back to my office, I just plugged it into my counter to ensure that I made myself accountable for everything I put in my mouth. It can be tough to do this, but it is the only way to make yourself accountable.

After getting stuck in the Kitchen for 2 hours, it didn't turn out that bad. A few extra points that I would have preferred not to have eaten, but it is too late to change my mind.

~Nathan

Saturday October 11, 2008

Well I had to go grocery shopping since just getting back from vacation. For those who don't know I went to Niagara Falls Ontario Canada for a few days. It was a great retreat, and well deserved. Back to Saturday, so I decide it was time to go grocery shopping. I made a list of items I wanted to get. This way it helps me stay on target, and not get what looks good. I spent 1/3 of my money just on fresh fruits and veggies, this helps promotes healthy eating. Then I finish with purchasing other items that are on the list. After putting everything away in my apartment, I always like to sit down and enjoy a nice sandwhich. I made my sandwhich and make a nice 32 oz glass of water with lemon, and watched some tv. To get in some quick Activity Points, I did some house work for about 20 minutes. This helps work off some of those calories I just ate. You always think of input vs output. You must try to burn at least 1/3 of what you input in your system. This way you leave the other 2/3 for your body nourishment (this is just my suggestion, as I'm not an expert at all).

My day went really well overall as I chose to eat the right foods, and tried to find foods that I got more bang for the buck! Those foods are the best choices!

~Nathan

Welcome To Road To Recovery

Welcome to Road To Recovery, I have decided after a month, that I wanted to document this journey that I have started for myself.

Why am I deciding to get on track, and start the Road To Recovery. Well I think obesity is a disease just like alcohol. Instead of enjoying drinking alcohol to high levels. I like to eat to high levels. I consider myself a professional eater, and have for many years. I enjoy the finer foods in life. I don't like to have to think about what I put in my mouth, more the flavor that I receive from eating it.

Well I hit an all time high of 338 pounds, and almost fell right over! Couldn't believe I had gained 64 pounds since taking this new hotel job in just 1 and a half years. Now it isn't all the hotels fault. But having a TGIFridays like restaurant at my disposale never helped. Along with an ice cream shop with all the toppings at my finger tips. Well yes those use to be some of the best times, or at least that is what I thought.

I have suffered from High Blood Pressure for years, and High Cholestral for about the same number of years. I have recently been diagonesed with Sleep Apnea, but that should have been diagonosed about 7 years ago. I guess I forgot to tell you I'm only 25 years old.

After facing reality that I was eating myself to an early grave. Yes I had to face reality. Yet my employer, and dear family members had told me the same thing for years. But I didn't care because I like who I am. Well let's stop and look to see who I was. I was a 25 year old young man who is very knowledgeable of the hotel industry who likes to eat, and can't walk a flight of stairs without needing oxygen (or the feeling of needing it). I am someone who is having an increase of medical problems. I can't go on amusement rides like I use to because of some medications that I'm on. So really who am I. I can say this I'm NOT the person who I thought I was.

I decided that it was time to get on track. On September 3, 2008 I decided I was going to make this change. I started to pack a lunch, and started to try and eat healthier. Then a week later I started very serious. Still at 338lbs, I got going on this road. I started at the gym, I started to account for everything that I put in my mouth. It hasn't been easy, but I'm determined to be the person who I WANT to be and the person who I thougth I was. As of Friday October 10, 2008 (1 month since getting down to business) I have lost 24 lbs in 30 days. This is huge, but it hasn't come easy. I really am careful on what I eat, and the choices I make. I do allow myself some treats as I am living a lifestyle and not living on a diet. I am using Weight Watchers Online, and it is the best thing that has ever happened to me.

I'm hoping that the people who read this, will walk down the same ROAD TO RECOVERY with me. I know WE can all make this same journey and get to our ideal goal weights.

Let's eat and be HEALTHY!

~Nathan