ROAD TO RECOVERY

Wednesday July 27, 2011

2011-07-27T10:24:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was able to keep within my points. As much as this is a great success, I did have a fall back, when I was out shopping. It took me to 2 hours to buy $400 worth of groceries. As I cashed out, and headed over to another store to get some meat...I got hungry (I ate before I went like 2 hours prior). I walked around this small store just looking for a small snack to get me home. My eyes locked on a bottle of Chocolate Milk, and a King Size pack of M&M's Peanut. Not a great choice as that little snack was a mere 25 points for the two items....YIKES! With my 71 points per day, I had no problem fitting that within my day, not proud of it, but proud I didn't go over my points.

For breakfast I had Progresso Light Soup with 16 Saltines

For Lunch I had Chocolate Milk, and M&M Peanuts

For Dinner I had a Grilled Chicken Breast with Instant Mashed Potatoes, and Corn.

My snacks consisted of

Snyder's Flavored Pretzels

Pickles

Plum

I'm off to try and stay on track, and get some AP's in today. Take care, and remember we CAN DO THIS!

Nathan

2011-07-26T19:37:00.000-07:00

I never had more success then when I use to blog, journal on WW, and track my foods on a daily basis. Since I have stopped doing what works, I have found myself gaining weight at a faster speed then I ever have before. Now at my largest weight of over 400 pounds, this is starting to become a very serious issue. I must loose the weight or risk loosing my life to healthy issues. Last time I saw one of my speciality doctors he said I'm a heart attack or stroke away from death. Scary moment, but still didn't motivate myself to change myself. I recently went home, and I struggled to buckle my belt in my soon to be mother in laws car, couldn't fit on the airplane, couldn't walk distances that once before were very simple for me. I have decided that I must lose this weight fast. It is going to be painful, but I have to do it. I am hoping to post daily to assist with me to stay on plan. I will post yesterday's meals so that you can get some ideas. Keep in mind I don't always eat proper things at the proper times, for example I will have soup and crackers for breakfast, not typical but I like it.

Talk to you soon,

Nathan

Weekly Update From 1/21-1/29

2011-01-29T20:49:00.000-08:00

This week has been a very busy one for me. Simply because Friday, I worked all day (11 + hours) as it was my last day before I had to fly to San Francisco for a business trip that started on Saturday. Saturday morning, I watched what I ate, and was tracking everything I ate, good or bad. By Monday I had stop tracking as the menu are preset at these conferences that I had to attend. The food was becoming very hard to judge, and know what things were cooked in.

With that said, I tracked what I ate when I got home on Thursday and Friday. I knew that I had gained some weight and was hoping that I didn't gain like 3 to 4 pounds. After today's weigh in I had gained 2.8 lbs bringing me back to 372.4. I can't be surprised as the food I ate, all the alcohol that I consumed during my visit in California that I would have gained 2.8lbs.

I know next week that I will have no problem loosing this weight, as I'm back on plan.

I hope you all had a great week for weight loss.

See you within the week.

Nathan

New Year and a New ME!

2011-01-20T12:23:00.000-08:00

Well here it is another year and it is still me in this body that I hate so much. I can't stand to be in this body, but yet I don't stick to the WW plan. Seriously what is wrong with me! Why can't I do this? Why is it that I can wake up every morning and wash, dress, and go to work, but I can't keep on WW.

Well this year no matter how bad it goes or how well it goes, my goal is to be on plan through out the year. This is a lifestyle not some get skinny scheme. I need to stay on target, and if I have a bad week, okay. Get on it next week and keep going. Don't just give up and go away from the program.

I know I do much better on WW when I write on my blog, but I always find a reason not to have time to write on this. But the real reason I find that I don't write on here as much as I should is seriously very simple. Are you ready for the answer.......well it is that I have to hold myself accountable for my actions. Who wants to be accountable for not be on plan. I know I don't.

That is why I'm making a dedication this year to write on here, at least once a week. This way I can update you all on weight loss, and how the journey is going.

So far I joined weight watchers for the third time on January 8th, 2011. In my first week I lost 11 lbs.

Then I have to travel for business this weekend to San Fransico for the part of the week. This forced me to go to an earlier meeting this week, so that I could do my weigh in, and hold myself accountable for the week. This week I lost 1.6 lbs. This means in less than 2 weeks I've lost 12.6 lbs, which is a great start!

I hope all of you are on target, and working towards you life goals.

~Nathan

Cheers to a healthy living!

November 30, 2010

2010-11-30T17:48:00.000-08:00

This morning woke up a bit tired. Not sure exactly why as I thought I slept pretty well. Except when I woke up to the cat playing with our full length mirror. Other than that I slept fine.

Moving on....for breakfast I did really well as I had an apple, yogurt, and a water.

Then I had to go to a unexpected luncheon. I ended up eating a salad with Balsamic Vinegar and a Chicken Pesto Sandwhich. Cheese and Ciabatta bread were the real killer here.

Italian Sausage, Suddenly Salad, Tomatoe & Cucumber with FF Dressing. 9 oz Italian Sausage (2 links) were 22 points, holy moly Batman! Couldn't believe it.

Anyway I finished 1 Point Plus Value over my daily total today. Yesterday I was almost 20 under so I guess I'm not doing to bad.

Other than that I had a great day, so tiredness during the middle of the day.

Hope you have a great evening.

~Nathan
Off to a healthier tomorrow!

Back at it again

2010-11-29T18:52:00.000-08:00

Yes last Thursday on November 18, 2010 I decided to get back on the wagon. I decided that at my highest weight ever of 385 lbs that it is time to do something, once and for all. Time to stick with it for the long haul, no matter what. I can't keep affording to go on it and then four months later just fall off. I have to stay focused and keep going in the right direction.

I have see the Dr. and got my sleep apnea machine which was something that was affecting my level of energy, which meant after work, I had nothing I wanted to do after that. With that said, I'm back on track.

After my first week I lost 9 lbs. Not bad, but I'm hoping that week 2 I can continue with a weight loss, even it that means, it isn't as much. Thursday is my weigh in.

Biggest challenge is that I love all food, and I like to eat food. It is an emotional thing, along with a thing of enjoyment. The other day I heard someone say at a shopping establishment. If someone had a chance to purchase a craft or a big slice of cake, a lot of people choose the cake, because of instant satisfaction! Sad but absolutely true in my life. I love to eat and get immediate satisfaction. How do I know this.....well I had an option to buy a craft, and chose to purchase a freshly baked slice of carrot cake loaded with cream cheese frosting, and boy was it GOOD!

Who has been on Weight Watchers website today? What is with the new Point Plus program? Boy I went from having 44 points to 71 points. Before you envy me, do you know how hard it is to eat 71 points. I'm a bit leary of the 71 points, so I don't know if I will be eating 71 points until I see how it effects my weight loss.

What are your feelings about the new program? Leave a comment and let me know.

Well today in brief this is what I had:

Breakfast

Fresh Strawberry Sugar Free Pudding Smoothie

Lunch

Ham & WW FF Cheese Sandwhich
Tomatoe & Cucumber Salad
HC Chicken & Rice Soup

Dinner

Turkey Noodle Casserole

Anytime

Toasted 100 Calorie Bagel
Apple
Cottage Cheese Double

Anyway this was my day. I hope you had a GREAT one!

Nathan
~Cheers to a Better tomorrow!

June 1 2010

2010-06-01T19:41:00.001-07:00

Well I lost 10lbs in my first week. Today was a decent day, and I did very well with keeping within my points. I had to work late tonight at work so I had my fiance stop and get me a subway sub so I could stay within my points. Overall today was a successful day.

Hope yours was too!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

May 31, 2010

2010-05-31T11:28:00.000-07:00

Well as many of you know I have been away for about oh 8 months, and since then I have gained about 52.2 lbs. With that being said I joined The Biggest Loser Club, and to be honest.....not the biggest fan of the website. Will most likely go back to Weight Watchers. I'm still counting points. I think the key to my success is the weighing and counting. This way it keeps me accountable for what I eat.

I started back at 37olbs and after one week I lost 10lbs so I'm back on track, and doing well during this Memorial Weekend!

Let's just eat healthy!

~Nathan

Headed to the gym

2009-09-27T08:27:00.001-07:00

Well I decided today I would go to the gym. I haven't been there since I had trouble there and almost fainted. Scary moment to say the least. But today is a new day and I'm off to the gym. Enjoy your day

September 14 2009

2009-09-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

I had a pretty decent day! I ate within my points even though Patrick Swayze died.

I ate some leftovers and worked on office work so I was up late, but I was able to stop eating after I made dinner and had a snack!

Just wanted everyone to know I had a good day!

Let's eat and be healthy!

~Nathan

Updates!

2009-09-13T07:28:00.000-07:00

Okay, I spent some time to update this site. Here are the changes:

Updated Weight Tracker (Found on the left side of the blog)
Updated the Weight Tracker/BMI tracker (located on the bottom of the page)
Added a countdown (Gave myself 1 1/2 years to lose 118lbs). DELTED FOR NOW AS IT WILL NOT HOLD THE DATE!!!! BUT I STILL HAVE A TIMELINE!
Added a section for comments! (Now your comments will show up on the left side)

Stop by and say hi!

No new photos as I'm at 317.8 and the last pic was 318. A couple of weeks!

Let's eat and be healthy!

~Nathan

September 12 2009

2009-09-13T06:57:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone,

I'm going to reflect on yesterday. Really didn't do much, except I did some necessary laundry, which I will need to finish later today.

I made breakfast out of some meals I made last week, that need to be eaten up.

Then for lunch I had some ww meatloaf I made.

For dinner, I really wanted pizza, so I got one. I had some slices last night, and only went over into my WPA's for 4 of them. I ate 2 slices this morning, because I love cold pizza. I'm throwing the rest away, as to be honest I have never done that before. NSV

I watched football yesterday and Notre Dame got beat by Michigan last minute to lose. Anyways today is a new day, and we will see how it goes. I'm already 12 points down for the day!

Well I hope you all have a GREAT one!

Let's eat and be healthy!
~Nathan

September 11 2009

2009-09-11T04:40:00.000-07:00

Here I am another day, and another day, I need to lose. What is the focus today? Todays focus is the PRIZE! Today I need to keep focusing on the fact with weight loss, I can do more, live longer, and healthier! I don't know about you but that is a FANTASTIC prize. As you know I'm 26 years old, and in a few years like 5 (LOL) I might want a kid. When that time comes, I need to be healthier so I can assist in taking care of him/her, and ensure that I can live a long life to enjoy my family!

I am focused on staying on plan, and eating right. Yesterday I ate 8 filling foods, maybe 9 today. That is the goal. Well I'm off to get ready for work. This is a bit shorter because of the 9/11 Tribute. Had to do it.

Let's eat and be healthy!

~Nathan

September 11 2009~9/11 Tribute!

2009-09-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

Today is probably one of the sadest moments in America's history. Today marks 8 years since the horrific crashes of the Twin Towers, and the Pentagon. So many lives were cut short on this day. I was talking about this with a colleague of mine. What were people thinking that day when they saw that plane coming...I know my thoughts would have been "Oh Sh*t" as that is probably all they had time to think before the impact. I know my cousin was suppose to be in the Tower that day, but his meeting was canceled. It is amazing how that happens, as if it had only happened for so many more people that day. Many will grieve today, some will cherrish the memories, and some will keep fighting to keep us free. I ask you take a moment out of your busy day, and pray for the safety of our service men and women who continue night and day to fight for our FREEDOM. While you are at it pray for strength of those families who have been affected by this tradegy. We must UNITE!

God Bless America

~Nathan

September 10 2009 Part II

2009-09-10T17:47:00.000-07:00

Today was my girlfriends weigh in. Well anyways as I had mentioned I lost 2.6lbs which was 0.8% of my total weight. She lost 3.2 lbs and that was 1.2% of her weight. She beat me so I guess I have to pony up for a gift for her. I had to say there is always mixed feelings when she wins. First and foremost I'm very proud of her, and happy she lost the weight. I just hate losing....LOL....but I love the challenge. Anyways I have a partial idea of her gift. I can't tell ya what it is just yet as she sometimes reads this.

I think we both had fantastic weeks! My ww meeting is Saturday so I get to see my old team leader, I just don't count that weigh in, as I have always used wednesday as my wi day since 09/08. I can't believe I started weight watchers about a year ago. I just wish I didn't take a break from it. I could be close to goal. Yet I'm pretty much back to where I started.

Anyways football is on, so I will get going so I can watch some!

Have a great night!

Let's eat and be healthy!

~Nathan

September 10 2009

2009-09-10T03:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone,

Well I was able to get up before 8am with the help of my dear girlfriend. We are in a long distance relationship as I have taken this new job in Indaina. She is working dilgently to be able to move out here, but she has to sell the house, and find a job. Not two of the easiest things to do in life. I set the alarm for 6am and she called me. It only took me 24 minutes to get out of bed. Not bad! I'm hoping that with me being able to get up earlier that I can get more accomplished at work, and will not have to stay as late. I go to work at 9am usually and stay there till 6 or 7pm. I know this isn't bad hours, but I'm hoping if I can get in by 8am then I will be out by 5 or 6pm. With winter/fall coming I'm trying to enjoy the gym membership that I'm paying for. The dilemma is that when I don't get home till 63o-730pm and I have to make dinner and what not then I don't want to work out that late. I certainly don't want to be eating dinner at 10pm-11pm. Yikes.

Well off to get ready for work!

Let's eat and be healthy!

~Nathan

September 9 2009

2009-09-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

Well I have been super busy, but am back on track. So where have I been?

I started back on Weight Watchers back on August 5 2009. Since then I have been on plan for a month. I have lost 9.2 lbs since then and am down 20.2 lbs since originally joining weight watchers. I have decided that I can't keep going back. I originally lost 59 lbs in 4 months. I gained back about 50lbs in 4 months. Well that is exactly what happens when you go away from the lifestyle that you have one point decided to follow.

I have been very active recently within the last 2 weeks with the Weight Watchers Boards. I have been very active in the 20+ year old board. I have met a bunch of nice ladies in there.

Yet there is nothing better than my readers.

My girlfriend and I started a challenge back about 6 weeks ago. Where who ever lost the bigger % would receive a prize from the individual that didn't lose as much. Anyways we have had 5 weeks of competition and I have won 3 and she has won 1 and we both gained one week so there was no prize exchanged. I lost 2.6 lbs this week, so she will have to lose at least probably 2 lbs to beat me. I wish her luck, but I feel good about this, I have been really good this week, as I have tracked everyday vs her not tracking. I helped her figure out all her points tonight. I hope she gets back on track this week.

Well how is everyone doing going into the fall season. I bet many of us could have fallen off the wagon during the summer as it is easy to do with vacation. It is now time to get back on track, and start to focus your eye on the prize and that is weight loss.

I have started Weight Watchers meetings on Saturday so technically I have two weigh in days. I try to be good for this wi, but not as good as my Wednesday weigh in since it is part of the challenge. I really have enjoyed my meetings, and look forward to getting to know other people at the meetings. I sometimes think I might go to the two different locations as they are so much different and offer different ideas.

Well I have to let you know about the new Weight Watchers 150 Classic Recipe Book. It is fabulous and I have enjoyed my $10.00 purchase very much. I recommend you purchase it for your home as well. Anyways some of my favorites are the Chili, Oven Roasted Chicken, Salisbury Steaks, and Loaded Mashed Potatoes. I can't stop talking about this cook book. One of the best in my opinion.

Well I think we have caught up. Be sure to stop by and say hi, and let me know how you are doing.

Let's eat and be healthy

~Nathan

2009-08-12T09:55:00.001-07:00

Wow I lost 4.8 lbs today that is a huge week for me. I worked out twice and really ate a lot of fresh vegetables from the local farmer down the road.

2009-08-12T09:53:00.001-07:00

Well not feeling the best today. I woke up with a headache and now the sniffles. I think it has a lot to do with the weather here. Trying to stay strong!

2009-08-12T03:08:00.001-07:00

Lost 4.8 lbs today! Off to the gym!

August 9 2009

2009-08-09T18:29:00.000-07:00

Had a decent Saturday and am on track today. I'm starting Weight Watchers meetings. I am hoping these meetings will help me stay on track. They are on Sundays at 130pm and todays was canceled.

Sundays have also became the one day I cook for the week. I make about 6 to 8 meals. All I have to do is warm them up. If 5 days go by, I will freeze them and use them as Smart Ones but not with all that sodium. I also cost out all the points ahead of time, so I warm up the meal I know how many points are behind that lid.

I fell by cooking these meals they are saving me tons of money by not eating out. If you decide to eat out go to this website and get the nutritional information www.dwlz.com Great site (not mine). If you want the costs of my meal check out mnchallenge.wordpress.com

Excited tostart another week of Weight Watchers with Weigh In on Wednesday.

Till Then,

Nathan

2009-08-09T17:01:00.001-07:00

Watching The Wrestler! Then I'm going to make a post!

2009-08-05T15:02:00.001-07:00

Taking one more day off from the gym! Still a bit sore, but think tomorrow I'll be set to return! Hope you will go to a gym too!

2009-08-05T14:52:00.001-07:00

I'm really excited to have this new blog with my girlfriend. We are in this fight together! We can share ideas, and share the benefits of being healthy.

2009-08-05T14:50:00.001-07:00

Finally done with the workday! Off to home to work on dinner and making a healthy dinner with some veggies. It is great!

2009-08-05T12:16:00.001-07:00

On task today! Will have about 20 points for dinner or close to.

2009-08-05T05:23:00.001-07:00

Great weigh in today as this is my first week back on track -3.6 lbs! I'll take it an run

New Website Endorsed by ME!

2009-08-04T19:39:00.001-07:00

My girlfriend and I have decided to create our own blog. This blog is dedicated to our weight loss together as a couple. We will share the good the bad and of course the ugly. Bottom line is we will support each other through this journey.

Come by and visit us at https://mnchallenge.wordpress.com

She will list the ladies point of view and I will continue to give the guys point of view. We would love to hear from you, so stop by and say hi! Leave a note or two! If you are a couple join our weight loss challenge.

We can't wait to hear from you. Stop by and say HI!

Till Then,

Nathan

August 4 2009

2009-08-04T19:19:00.000-07:00

I had a great day for the most part, and learned something very important. Well going into dinner I had 22 points, and boy I never thought I would eat them all. I made Ground Chicken Sloppy Joes. Really all it is, chicken, tomato paste, and water. Can't be really bad right?

Wrong the one lb of ground chicken was almost 20 points, so making five servings turns out to be 4 points. Well I got a bit carried away and had three of them. Boy killing points away in the dinner hour. Well I have to say it is definitely a great alternative to having full flavored Sloppy Joes, but buyer be ware.

Tonight I cooked 8 ready to eat meals consisting of 4 oz of Chicken or Pork Chop. 1/2 cup of boiled potatoes, and 3/4 cup of mixed veggies that I made. Pointed them all out, and simply will place in the freezer in the next couple of days. Who needs Smart Ones when you can cook like this. It cost me $8.80 to make 8 meals at a cost of $1.10 per dinner, you can't buy Smart Ones that cheap!

Till then,

Nathan

2009-08-04T10:14:00.001-07:00

One last entry via text before back to work! So far I think I'm doing well with the new life, just going to take another day off from the gym. Be healthly!

2009-08-04T10:12:00.001-07:00

New meal this morning!

I had egg white, cheese, lettuce and tomato on wheat toast. It was pretty good. Yesterday I had a wheat eggo waffle w berries n sf syrup

2009-08-04T10:10:00.001-07:00

I went and got a bite to eat at the grocery store across the way and was fine. But during that whole time it was very scary.

2009-08-04T10:09:00.001-07:00

I got out and started to feel light headed. Lost my energy quickly. I drank some water and about 30 minutes later I was fine. What a scare! To be continued...

2009-08-04T10:07:00.001-07:00

I woke up Monday in A lot of pain. I was stiffer than plywood. I decided to go to the gym and sit in the whirlpool for 30 minutes. It felt great in there.

2009-08-04T10:06:00.001-07:00

Something scary happened to me yesterday. I started back to the gym on Sunday! The trainer gave me an assessment and it lasted an hour of exercise. To be cont..

2009-08-04T10:04:00.003-07:00

t. It came with a hard boiled egg, two pieces of tomato and cucumber. A piece of raisin toast! All priced for 7.45! What a bargin !

2009-08-04T10:04:00.001-07:00

Went to one of my favorite restaurants today for lunch. They had a great grilled chicken plate. It was fantastic! It came with a couple of pieces of frui

2009-08-03T10:09:00.001-07:00

Just had a nice lunch. I had a ham and cheese sandwhich, grapes, and pretzels. Also went with a propel for the drink.

August 2 2009

2009-08-02T14:23:00.000-07:00

It has been a very busy week. I weighed in at 329lbs on Wednesday. Went and check today and was 327.4 so lets hope we can keep that off. Anyways. I had a 10 point breakfast to get me started. Some proteins before I went to see this gym.
I did a one hour workout, which I was hurting in all the right spots. From there I signed the dotted line making yet another comittment to my life, and the change that must happen, before something terrible happens.

This is what I have eaten so far:
2 eggs, sausage, pepper jack cheese sandwhich.Diet Coke

Snack: 1 cup Mixed Fruit

Drinks 2 diet Cokes

About to go make a sandwhich and probably have some yogurt, along with lemon and water.
Cheer to all. Let's get this weight loss done!

Nathan

July 28 2009

2009-07-28T17:43:00.000-07:00

Woke up pretty happy and energetic, which was great! Had an egg white, cheese ham sandwhich on wheat bread at work, with a Propel.

For lunch I had a medium size Cobb Salad with FF Italian dressing which I'm still burping up...LOL.

For mid snack after work I had 4 pieces of garlic cheese toast and a half order of french fries.

I really had dinner yet but will prolly make a sandwhich. I also had four adult beverages tonight after work!

Been not the best, but started out well. Will definitely give it another go tomorrow.

I am going to the gym Sunday to sign up, as soon as I get paid.

Take care,

Nathan

2009-07-28T04:52:00.005-07:00

e to win this fight! I'm off to work!

Nathan

2009-07-28T04:52:00.003-07:00

ily fight. I can't keep losing as in any fight things starts to swell like my legs, my stomach, my arms. I can't keep living this boxing lifestyle. I hav

2009-07-28T04:52:00.001-07:00

Well I'm on my way to work. I haven't eaten anything but an egg white sandwhich sounds great! I'm hoping for a better day than yesterday! It is like a da

2009-07-27T17:04:00.001-07:00

Hello everyone,
Trying to update my blog via my cell phone. If this works then this could be the greatest invention.

Nathan

July 23, 2009

2009-07-27T17:03:00.000-07:00

Well a month has gone by, and where am I. What have I've been doing? I tell you it isn't good at all. Things are not well. Things are spinning out of control and there doesn't seem to be a stopping point. Food taste great, and comes in abundance. Food is everywhere I am. Food seems to find itself on my office desk, or at the Front Desk of the hotel I run. Or in my Director of Sales office. Food is where I like to be, it is comforting. Food jumps into my hand, and then my mouth, without me even knowing it.Okay so some people have a problem because they don't think before they say something. I don't think about what goes in the mouth before I start to crunch on it. Why is it I don't look, the weight is piling on like an extra all beef patty at McDonald's with extra sauce. Why will it just not stop. I dont' want to be like the people that I see, and I see in the mirror. It has to stop.My Director of Sales is looking to loose weight, and so I thought you know what it is time to get back on the band wagon and start this fight. It isn't easy by no means. Today I didn't start off too well as I had a Blueberry Bagel Breakfast sandwhich and cottage cheese with hot sauce. I did have a Propel while at work. I had a Oven Roasted Chicken Breast Sub at Subway with a Diet Coke and Frito Lays. I went on a 3 mile bicycle ride, which I thought I was going to die on. Boy am I out of shape. I haven't had dinner, but wanted to make a comittment to better living. I have to do this for me, my girlfriend and eventually for the children I may have one day. Most importantly for MYSELF.Stay tuned for updates. Take care!N

I fell off but I'm back

2009-06-11T18:57:00.000-07:00

Okay so a lot has changed since I last posted. Let's start with the biggest thing I went to Dallas for training in the end of January. Came back and started to look for a new job. Found one and moved from NY to Indiana (Elkhart to be exact near Notre Dame University). Anyways I'm a General Manager, which brings a lot of responsibility. Anyways I'm really excited about my new found venture, but my health and weight loss has taken a toll. No excuse but I know I just need to get back on it. I have this week as I've been doing really well. I have been counting my points etc. My downfall right now is that I work about 12 to 14 hours so when I get up and come home, I don't want to work out. I'm going to eat right, and start to exercise when my life goes back to some what normalcy.

~Nathan
Let's eat and be healthy!

Sunday's Dinner

2009-01-26T03:59:00.000-08:00

Last night was a pot luck dinner. As I'm going away tomorrow, I'm trying to use up my ingredients that will go while I'm away. Last night I had a "microwaved" baked potato with salt & pepper and spray butter. That along with a tomato cut up with FF Italian Dressing. I had a 4 oz Chicken Breast that I placed a little bit of Feta over it. Then in the freezer I had a piece of Turkey Enchillada Casserole. Sounds like a lot and it was but it was so good. Total meal was about 14 points.

Got to run and get ready for a half day at work, then back home to pack, eat, and bedtime.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Am I On Plan?

2009-01-25T12:37:00.000-08:00

Certainly have tried, but certainly have had a few set backs, but I'm still headed in the right direction. My workouts at the gym have increased to 1 hour eliptical and 30 minutes of doing situps. Working those rock solid flabby abs.....LOL....okay I had you going for a minute. I am not eating bad unless I don't plan.

Tonight I pulled Chicken and a piece of an turkey enchillada casserole I made a couple of weeks ago. We will see which one I eat tonight.

Take care....as this might be my last post till after Texas!

Remember "Don't Mess With Texas!"~Don't worry I plan on DOING just that!LOL

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

T Minus 2 days

2009-01-25T12:33:00.000-08:00

That is right only 2 days left till I hit the friendly skies and end up in Dallas TX. I can't wait to get out of the cold and into the warm sunny TX. Well I have cleaned my apartment to make it sparkle as mom will be taking care of my 2 babies....okay their cats Martin & Molly. But none the less. I have spent about 5 hours, and lots of sweat to get the job done. Now I'm done, but still have to run and do laundry. I'm running around to get everything done before I leave for Texas.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

P.S. I will have pics from my trip posted in February, so stay tune!

Huge Non Scale Victory

2009-01-25T12:28:00.000-08:00

I went to see the Dr. on Thursday afternoon after having a minor headache about two hours after taking my medication. The only appointment I could get was in the afternoon. Megan who is one of the assistants to the Office Manager (who I admire deeply...LOL) told me why don't we do all your blood work on Thursday as well. Wait that means you have to fast since 6am. I told her I would be fine with making that sacrifice as long as we could get everything done. I agreed and took the appointment. My doctor was so impressed with my weight loss. She told me keep it up. That isn't the NSV, what is......she took me off half of the medication that I took for my High Blood Pressure. My pill I took had 2 medications in it. So I still take one pill but it only has half the medication in it. YEAH for me....huge non scale victory.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

T Minus 10 Days

2009-01-17T05:18:00.001-08:00

And I will be in Dallas TX for my Hilton Training. I can't wait, was a refreshing moment that will be as I can't stand the cold weather. I'm really excited and it is T Minus 12 days till I go to San Antonio and see my friends that I left behind. We will ROCK SAN ANTONIO.....!!!!!!!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Non Official WI

2009-01-17T05:16:00.000-08:00

I weighed in today at my apartment like I always do on Wednesday's. I have gained weight last week, and I can't continue that, as I have done so well. Today I hopped on the scale to find out that I've lost 2.4lbs already as I'm 285 even. That is great, and who knows by next Wednesday. It is more of a reason to stay OP.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Breakfast/Lunch 1/16/09

2009-01-17T05:12:00.000-08:00

I guess after posting that I should include the other two meals....right

Breakfast

2 portions of instant oatmeal with added cinnamon

Lunch

Toss Salad with balsamic dressing Wishbone spray
WW Yogurt
Apple
Italian Skillet 2 portions but only 5.5 points got to love that....it was so good as the flavors got to sit.....I think that is one of my fav new dishes....quick, simple, yet delicous!

Enjoy!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Dinner Tonight 1/16/09

2009-01-17T05:11:00.001-08:00

I decided I would have

2 5oz grilled chicken
1 large bake potato nothing in it
1 garden salad with green leaf, tomato, and a couple of croutons for good measure. I used my balsamic vingarette dressing that I make.

MMMM it was so tasty!

Quick, simple, and yet delicious!!!!!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Dinner Tonight...NO Cookbook needed

2009-01-15T17:59:00.000-08:00

I wanted to use what I had in the house. We use to do this a lot when I worked in the restaurants. We would make specials with items that we had, and never would purchase items.

Here we go:

Oven Fries:

8 oz of Potatoes
1 t Olive Oil
Sprinkle Kosher Salt
Sprinkle Black Pepper
Sprinkle Garlic Powder
Sprinkle Onion Powder

Cut the potatoes into strips. Place the potatoes in a container (with a lid) and add seasoning and oil. Shake until the potatoes are coated. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes (or until cooked) at 375F.

It serves 2 people at 2 points per serving.

For the entree:

Stuffed Chicken with Veg

2-4 oz Chicken Breast (Skinless, Boneless)
2 small button mushrooms diced
1 celery stalk diced
1 carrot diced
1/4 onion diced
2 cloves of garlic minced
1 slice of Weight Watchers Bread
Sprinkle of Kosher Salt
Sprinkle of Black Pepper
Pam Spray

Take a medium skillet over medium heat, and add Pam Spray. Add mushrooms, carrot, celery, garlic. Saute for 5 minutes (this is optional, if you like your veggies a little more crunchy then don't do the saute part). Remove from heat, and place mixture into bowl. Take the slice of bread and add it to water, and let soak for 5 minutes. Squeeze out the water, and add to the veggie mixture. Mix the mixture along with seasonings. Now take your mixture and split into two parts and fill your two chicken breasts. Fold chicken breasts and pin closed with toothpicks. Take a medium skillet over medium heat, and wait until it is hot. Spray the Pam Spray and immediately place the chicken into the skillet. Cook on all 2 sides, for no more than 3 minutes per side for a total of 6 minutes. Now take it off the heat, and place the 2 chickens onto a cookie sheet and place in the oven for about 15 minutes or until cooked at 375F.

Enjoy!

This serves 2 people and it is only 3 points per serving or 6.5 points for both pieces of chicken.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Check-In 2009

2009-01-15T13:05:00.000-08:00

Use this entry to log in your sucess so far. Like how many lbs have you lost, how long have you been doing it, how many lbs to goal. I'll start mine, look at the comments for my answer!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

My weekend caught up to me!

2009-01-15T13:01:00.000-08:00

I am starting to hate eating and eating out. No really I love both, but it just stinks when you try to behave yourself, but your mind takes over and gets you to eat things you love...ie Chicken Parmesan. Boy do I love that with a bowl of that white penne pasta....LOL...I'll stop now we don't need anyone binging off my website. I am back on plan this week, and back to tracking everything. I tell you it is tough when you go out to eat, because it is hard to tell how they cook things. But part of our social lives is to dine out with family and friends. Ouch! Well I'm off to have lunch....guess what it was another dish of Italian Skillet, except this time I put mushrooms in it. It is such a great recipe with lots of great veggies....if you haven't checked it out yet YOU ARE MISSING SOMETHING. Tonight I think I will try a new recipe with chicken of course....we will see because it is really cold outside today, and I'm not looking to go to the store for ingredients. Pantry to Plate cookbook, here I come!!!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

New Pictures

2009-01-15T12:58:00.000-08:00

I have updated per a readers request (because I got my new camera) a new photo of where I'm at with my weight loss. As you can tell in most my photos, this isn't a pleasureable thing for me....but either was gaining weight...right!

Well I hope to get another couple of shots up there when I lose another 10-15lbs, but not till then. I am going to San Antonio/Dallas later this month, so I will have trip pictures in the beginning of February, but no weight loss pictures.

I'll keep you posted!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

It Been a Bad Weekend Oh NO

2009-01-12T03:23:00.001-08:00

Yes that is right, I had a bad eating weekend. Basically I'll break down what I had for the weekend....let you be the judge.

Saturday:

3 Egg whites with veggies
1 serving of boiled &seasoned potatoes cooked in Pam spray 0 cal
Soft Pretzel with Salt (at movie theater....it was better than that big o bag of popcorn)
Turkey burger with 1/2 oz of Swiss Cheese
Chicken Parm with Penne Pasta with Marinara Sauce (ouch)
Salad with Raspberry Vinegarette
3 Slices of White Italian Bread with 2 t of Olive Oil with Garlic

Ouch of a day but I get 41 points

Sunday:

Egg white flatbread from Dunkin Donut
1/2 portion of almonds
2 slices of cheese (1 oz total weight)
2 slices of ham (1 oz total weight)
3 Sour Pickles
Chicken Cordon Bleu made at a restaurant (it was not breaded or fryed, it was baked...it included mozzarella cheese and proscuitto. It was only one chicken breast with 3 slices of thinly sliced proscuitto.....with a side dish of spaghetti and marrinara sauce.
3 slices of bread
Rum Raisin Geloto
2 Bloody Marys

(Ouch of a day)

Now be the judge about how bad of those days really were?

Monday:

Back on Plan, how about you?

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Spinning Activity Points

2009-01-10T03:13:00.000-08:00

I have been working on my trainer/spinner, and have always wondered why it is such a workout. I mean seriously I'm only spinning my back tire of my bicycle. Why would this be more of a workout then riding a stationary bike at the gym? Well the answer to that question is I'm not exactly sure, but would believe it has to do with the intensity. On the other hand I did 30 minutes of it and first calculated under bicycling and received 3 activity points. Then in the Men's section on WW Online, a person suggested I look up spinning. Sure enough I did, and found out that my 30 minutes of kick butt intensity (have to take a nap afterwards, because I'm totally exhausted)....is really worth 7 activity points. Now that is AWESOME!! I mean I'm excited because for 3 Ap's I would rather ride my eliptical, but 7 I'm on the trainer, and then to a nap....LOL....we all need our rest....right?

"Let's eat and be healthy"
~Nathan

I Bought a New Camera

2009-01-10T03:11:00.000-08:00

I thought I would let you all know that I just purchased a brand new camera. The reason for the purchase is that I had to sacrifice my previous camera to take those photos at Niagara Falls (died due to getting wet). Oh well the pictures are well worth the loss of the camera. I just took 2 pics yesterday of me at 284. I will post on my site very soon!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Italian Skillet Recipe

2009-01-09T04:49:00.000-08:00

Last night I tried a new recipe from my WW Cookbooks. I had to make some adjustments, so I want to make sure I give some credit to WW. Here is the recipe and it was so yummy.

1 Carrot-peeled and diced
2 Small Onions-peeled and diced
1 Celery Stalk-cleaned and diced
141/4 oz Diced Tomatoes
3 Garlic Clove minced
8 oz Chicken cut into thin stips
1 t Dried Basil
1/4 t Kosher Salt
1/2 t Black Pepper
2 t Olive Oil

Take a large skillet and put over medium heat. Place Olive Oil in the pan once the pan has heated up. Add carrots, onions, celery, and garlic. Saute vegetables till onions are clear about 10 minutes. Add the chicken and cook for about 5 minutes until is partially cooked on each side. Add the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and dried basil and simmer for about 10-15 minutes. Your meal is ready.

It serves 4 people (but to be honest I ate 2 portions). It is 2 points per serving or 5.5 points per 2 servings.

I recommend a nice brown rice pilaf as a side dish.

Happy eating

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Going with a New Look

2009-01-08T18:23:00.000-08:00

Okay it is 2009, and it is time to change up the blog a little. I added a few pics, and now it is time to change the template. I hope you all like.

Nathan

Profile Pics & Updates on Pics

2009-01-08T17:05:00.000-08:00

Just an FYI, my profile pic is what I looked like at 280lbs which I'm almost there again. I have updated some photos tonight. I have one at 318 and one at 298. I'm about to go out and buy a new camera, because that pic on the boat.....I think killed my camera....oh well.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

85.4 lbs To Goal

2009-01-08T09:54:00.000-08:00

That's right I have lost 53.6 lbs in just 18 weeks, and I have another 85.4 lbs to go until I will reach my goal of 199 lbs. I want to get to the point that I can tell people I weigh less than 200 lbs. I know that my dr. would prefer me to be less than that. We can cross that bridge when I get there. I tell ya it is only one step at a time. Join the journey for the next 85.4 lbs.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Spinning

2009-01-08T09:47:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought of joining a spinning class? Well I just got my new bicycle for Christmas. I decided to purchase a trainer for my bicycle. What the trainer does, it basically holds your back tire up against resistance so when you pedal, you spin your back tire but not your front. This is known as spinning. Anyways I have decided not to join a class but I enjoy doing it at my house. The main reason I don't join is a the time doesn't really work. Second is I can't last very long at this point spinnning. What about you joing?

Let me know?

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Were You There?

2009-01-08T09:46:00.000-08:00

I've been working out at the gym since the New Year, so are you on track? Are you going to the gym consistently? Post your results in a comment!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Invasion

2009-01-08T09:37:00.000-08:00

Here I was standing, and it felt like I was being invaded by tall people, short people, average height people. Overweight people, skinny people, average weight people. They were males and females. They were white, black, Spanish, Middle Eastern, Mexican, Puerto Rican, they were all kinds of people. They were invading MY SPACE. They had never been there before, where did they all come from (wood work?). If you haven't guessed what I'm talking about is my gym and how many new members are there for their New Year resolution. Boy I was so frustrated with "them", they had shown up and taken over....and only to know that most will not be there in a month. They had taken my machine. That machine and I have been "dating" for 18 weeks, and I didn't dare to cheat on her otherwise I might stop losing. I wanted to rip that person off MY MACHINE. I was so frustrated that these people thought they could show up for a month and invade my space, when I have been doing this for 18 weeks. HOW DARE THEM? I have to say I can't wait till February and March get here, then they will disappear, and I can get back to my life and MY MACHINE.

I thought you might get a kick out of this entry.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

How does it feel to 51 lbs lighter?

2009-01-03T08:59:00.000-08:00

Well to be honest, it feels REALLY GOOD! That saying that "nothing tastes as GREAT as SKINNY feels" is so true. Now by no means am I skinny, but I'm not this huge guy who couldn't move up a flight of stairs without getting winded. I'm a 26 year old guy who can actually take the stairs and feel good when I get to the top of it. I'm someone who can clean my house, and not get winded when I bend over....use to be that person, and as hard as it is to stay OP...and on target.....it just has to be done.

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Saturday January 3, 2009

2009-01-03T08:54:00.000-08:00

Well I didn't make it to the gym, but I did get up and make breakfast for myself. A nice egg, cheese, turkey sausage and 1 point English Muffin=7 points, and it was well worth it. I then got to work for about 2 hours in cleaning the house. I still have the bathroom and the kitchen, and the kitchen table....but I'm loosing steam. I'm going out with a friend tonight, so I have to find a restaurant that serves chicken and salads, as that is what she wants. Works for me. I'm looking to be on plan today, and I got a few AP's in even though they were not gym points. Points are points...Right?

Enjoy the day!

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

The New Year

2009-01-02T20:54:00.000-08:00

Welcome to year 2009, and it has been a blast. I actually would like to correct my total weight loss. It is actually 51.2 lbs because I weigh 286.8. I got that confused earlier in another entry. Now bad I am 51 lbs lighter as I entered into 2009. What a great feeling. I'm going to the gym tomorrow for the first time in the year. I have to be honest it has been really cold here in upstate NY, and we have had the white stuff to the ice stuff. Not nice. In the winter I can become very lazy as my skins tightens up like leather, and when it stretches it bleeds. I have a condition known as exema ( I know that isn't close to how it is spelt). But basically my skin dries out. I use a lotion, but sometimes it doesn't work quick enough. Like this evening I have 2 cracks on each foot a long with 2 cracks on my right hand. I mean it does it so quick. I think that is one issue I have always struggled with in losing weight in the winter time. I'm going to definitely try and over come that this year. I wish you all the best.

Let's keep up the good work

"Let's eat and be healthy"

~Nathan

Happy New Year!

2008-12-31T22:14:00.001-08:00

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

2008-12-31T03:56:00.001-08:00

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

2008-12-20T05:50:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-20T05:27:00.000-08:00

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?

2008-12-20T05:18:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-07T20:53:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-07T20:46:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-04T17:18:00.000-08:00

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

2008-12-04T16:18:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-29T16:52:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-29T16:41:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-28T03:31:00.000-08:00

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??

2008-11-28T03:14:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-27T04:05:00.000-08:00

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....

2008-11-26T16:55:00.000-08:00

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?

2008-11-26T16:27:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-25T09:19:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-25T09:11:00.000-08:00

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?

2008-11-24T09:52:00.001-08:00

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?

2008-11-21T18:46:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-19T16:18:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-19T16:16:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-19T16:10:00.000-08:00

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....

2008-11-14T19:29:00.000-08:00

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

2008-11-14T05:29:00.001-08:00

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!

2008-11-14T05:22:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-14T05:12:00.000-08:00

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!

2008-11-13T06:01:00.001-08:00

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

2008-11-12T08:40:00.000-08:00

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