In December, I broke my middle and ring finger of my right hand. During that bad patch of icy weather, I slipped and as I fell, I did the splits. Luckily, I do this in my Bar Method classes every day, so there was no pain from that. I broke my fingers trying to break my fall. At first I thought I had jammed them. I figured that the pain would go away after a few days. Let me tell you, the pain was exquisite.
I had a lot going on with Christmas and our youngest daughter's wedding, so I pushed through the pain. An advantage of working at a hospital, is I can't flip a quarter without hitting a doctor or a nurse. I finally consulted a nurse who said she could tell by looking at them that they had been broken. Since time had passed, I was told to wrap it for a few days and it would be OK.
It is not OK. It will never be OK again. I now have a way to mark when things happen in my life. Now things have happened either pre or post finger pain. They hurt all the time. They hurt while I type this blog. I wince when I wash my hands. Shake my hand? Hell no! Needing the right hand to lift something or stop a dog? Not happening without a small scream attached.
For two months I have put up with this pain. It isn't the pass out kind of pain, but an annoying constant ache. The kind where you want to slap something. Hard. Then of course there are times when the sharp pain comes because I lifted a glass or something silly.
Why might I be writing a blog about my injured fingers? Well one thing is that if you see me, please don't try to shake my hand. I adore you, but lets tap elbows for awhile. After all, it is cold and flu season. The other reason is that I knew something was wrong, but I just pushed through the pain thinking that things would get better soon. I didn't make time to take care of me.
I hear story after story of people who have had weight loss surgery tell me they are having issues but they know it will get better soon. They are choosing not to take care of themselves. They do not put their health first. Then they end up having to have another surgery or are diagnosed vitamin deficient and must spend a year getting back to normal health. Are you having issues? When was the last time you checked in with your surgeon's office? Might be time to pay attention to the warning signs. Make the time to take care of yourself.
By the way, I can now tell the weather by the ache in my fingers. Oh what fun!
Showing posts with label weight loss coaching. Show all posts
Showing posts with label weight loss coaching. Show all posts
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Wednesday, January 29, 2014
Newlyweds?
My life over the last two months has been one of complete chaos. My plate has been full. If I told you everything here, you would not believe me. I will be writing a screenplay as it would be a perfect Lifetime movie.
When the grand life lesson teacher decides to give you back to back term papers, pop quizzes and projects, you do them. I kept thinking "This too shall pass". For the most part it has or at least life is moving in the right direction.
One of the neat things I am getting to experience is time alone with my husband. We have been married for over 8 years. During that time, we have never really been alone. Someone was always living in our home. Sure, we would get a week here or a week there, but never any length of time without someone residing there.
I am not complaining. I love my stepchildren as if they were my own, but never having time with your husband can be difficult. The kids have boomeranged so often that on the day one moved out, another showed up and moved in. There are many times we felt like we were running a hotel. A few weeks ago, our youngest got married. Husband and I were looking forward to finally being alone. With the exception of a kid moving in for 6 days in January, we have gotten our long sought for wish.
Currently it is just us and our two dogs. I love it! We have a family room that before now was constantly occupied by one or more of our children and their posse. We really have never gotten to use that room. Over the past two weeks, we have taken over! We watch TV, read and work on the computer in our family room. When husband wants to go to sleep, no problem. I can stay up and do what I need to do in the family room. It is almost like we added on a section of the house!
We are having fun too! We are trying to see if we can hold off going to the grocery store for any major purchases until we have cleaned out our pantry and freezer. We are having some creative meals. It doesn't matter as it is just us! Whoop! When I return home in the evening, the house is just as I left it that morning. Well, except Molly the dog sometimes tries to redecorate, but otherwise the same.
I am remembering why I married my husband. He is hilarious! We laugh all the time! It is so rejuvenating! I would guess that this is what most of you experience when you get married, before you have children. We are finally having our newlywed moment. What fun! It is nice to have the precious time alone. I will treasure these days and greedily enjoy each one.
Hopefully, we have entered the peace and quiet stage of life. Oh and if you need a place to stay, please don't knock on our door. The Inn is temporarily closed for renovations.
When the grand life lesson teacher decides to give you back to back term papers, pop quizzes and projects, you do them. I kept thinking "This too shall pass". For the most part it has or at least life is moving in the right direction.
One of the neat things I am getting to experience is time alone with my husband. We have been married for over 8 years. During that time, we have never really been alone. Someone was always living in our home. Sure, we would get a week here or a week there, but never any length of time without someone residing there.
I am not complaining. I love my stepchildren as if they were my own, but never having time with your husband can be difficult. The kids have boomeranged so often that on the day one moved out, another showed up and moved in. There are many times we felt like we were running a hotel. A few weeks ago, our youngest got married. Husband and I were looking forward to finally being alone. With the exception of a kid moving in for 6 days in January, we have gotten our long sought for wish.
Currently it is just us and our two dogs. I love it! We have a family room that before now was constantly occupied by one or more of our children and their posse. We really have never gotten to use that room. Over the past two weeks, we have taken over! We watch TV, read and work on the computer in our family room. When husband wants to go to sleep, no problem. I can stay up and do what I need to do in the family room. It is almost like we added on a section of the house!
We are having fun too! We are trying to see if we can hold off going to the grocery store for any major purchases until we have cleaned out our pantry and freezer. We are having some creative meals. It doesn't matter as it is just us! Whoop! When I return home in the evening, the house is just as I left it that morning. Well, except Molly the dog sometimes tries to redecorate, but otherwise the same.
I am remembering why I married my husband. He is hilarious! We laugh all the time! It is so rejuvenating! I would guess that this is what most of you experience when you get married, before you have children. We are finally having our newlywed moment. What fun! It is nice to have the precious time alone. I will treasure these days and greedily enjoy each one.
Hopefully, we have entered the peace and quiet stage of life. Oh and if you need a place to stay, please don't knock on our door. The Inn is temporarily closed for renovations.
Saturday, November 9, 2013
Problem Solver
I am a problem solver. That is why I am a good life and weight loss coach. I have the ability to see the entire picture and can help people move forward.
At times I have someone who says they have a problem, and wants to solve the problem, but they are clearly happier not moving forward. They like being miserable. They are living a lie.
Life will always be hard for liars. They choose not to look in the mirror and accept the truth and move forward. It breaks my heart when I come across one of these people. They are the eternal victims. They can't catch a break.
What they don't seem to see is that they are the ones who can give themselves a break. It is all up to them. Their choice.
Each and every one of us has the power to change our own lives. If you are a doctor and you don't like being a doctor, you can be something else. You limit yourself, no one does that for you.
So grab a mirror, look in and have a chat with the one who is looking back at you. Make some decisions. Solve some of your own problems. Once you do, life can be amazing!
At times I have someone who says they have a problem, and wants to solve the problem, but they are clearly happier not moving forward. They like being miserable. They are living a lie.
Life will always be hard for liars. They choose not to look in the mirror and accept the truth and move forward. It breaks my heart when I come across one of these people. They are the eternal victims. They can't catch a break.
What they don't seem to see is that they are the ones who can give themselves a break. It is all up to them. Their choice.
Each and every one of us has the power to change our own lives. If you are a doctor and you don't like being a doctor, you can be something else. You limit yourself, no one does that for you.
So grab a mirror, look in and have a chat with the one who is looking back at you. Make some decisions. Solve some of your own problems. Once you do, life can be amazing!
Friday, August 2, 2013
Polyanna? Why not?
Since I have become a certified coach, I have really noticed a change in me. I have made a conscious effort to lift people up. I don't really see the good in being negative. It is a waste of time.
My husband says that I am becoming a Polyanna. What is wrong with that? I would rather look for the good in someone than focus on the bad. For as long as I can remember, I have had an inner mean girl that hangs out in my head. For the last few months, I have told her to go *%#$ herself. She has been quiet and I have not been happier. Coincidence? I think not!
I put this picture with my post because it shows love. That's what it is all about. Take a moment to find the fabulous in everyone you meet. Sometimes it may be a bit hard to do, but trust me, you can find something in every single person that walks this earth! So, get on it! Join me in Polyannaville. It is a beautiful place.
My husband says that I am becoming a Polyanna. What is wrong with that? I would rather look for the good in someone than focus on the bad. For as long as I can remember, I have had an inner mean girl that hangs out in my head. For the last few months, I have told her to go *%#$ herself. She has been quiet and I have not been happier. Coincidence? I think not!
I put this picture with my post because it shows love. That's what it is all about. Take a moment to find the fabulous in everyone you meet. Sometimes it may be a bit hard to do, but trust me, you can find something in every single person that walks this earth! So, get on it! Join me in Polyannaville. It is a beautiful place.
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Words Hurt!
Recently, an ugly memory from my youth jumped up and slapped me full on the face. I hadn't thought about it for years and then all of the sudden, wham!
From age 8 to 17, I went to Nakanawa, an all girls camp in Tennessee. The camp was 7 weeks long. This is what was done in the summer. It wasn't an option to not go. Most of my friends went to a 2 week camp and then had fun by the pool for the rest of the summer. I was always so jealous!
I thought I loved camp, but I was never a special camper. I wasn't really good at any sport. I was one of the members of Octet (which was kind of a big deal), but that was singing and not sports. I never really fit in.
I made the best of my situation. I grew up at camp. I learned manners, how to play many sports, and how to live in the same room with 10 or more people.
Every year in the fall, the camp owner would come around and show movies from the previous summer. It was always fun to see yourself on film (this was before videos and the fact that everyone can be in their own movie via smart phone today).
After my final year, I went to the movie. The owner was handing out applications to some of the other girls asking them to come back as counselors for the next year. I mentioned that I might be interested in an application and she laughed in my face! She said "You? Why would you want to come back?" I was mortified.
Needless to say, I was never a counselor. For years I ruminated over her laughing at me. I tried to figure out what it meant. What had I done to bring on that response? This was someone that I admired. Was I a horrible camper? What was wrong with me?
I had forgotten about this incident until a few weeks ago. It's always icky when you remember something negative from your past. Sometimes it can release your inner "mean girl" and cause you to flog yourself for ridiculously long periods of time. This time my mean girl didn't get a chance to pull out her whips and chains. I am no longer that young girl who just wanted to be a part of a group. I like who I am and what I do.
I release that negative experience into the past. Those words cannot hurt or haunt me anymore. Do you have some experiences that continue to haunt you? Can your "mean girl" appear and smack you around?
Let's talk about it. www.losinggracefully.com
From age 8 to 17, I went to Nakanawa, an all girls camp in Tennessee. The camp was 7 weeks long. This is what was done in the summer. It wasn't an option to not go. Most of my friends went to a 2 week camp and then had fun by the pool for the rest of the summer. I was always so jealous!
I thought I loved camp, but I was never a special camper. I wasn't really good at any sport. I was one of the members of Octet (which was kind of a big deal), but that was singing and not sports. I never really fit in.
I made the best of my situation. I grew up at camp. I learned manners, how to play many sports, and how to live in the same room with 10 or more people.
Every year in the fall, the camp owner would come around and show movies from the previous summer. It was always fun to see yourself on film (this was before videos and the fact that everyone can be in their own movie via smart phone today).
After my final year, I went to the movie. The owner was handing out applications to some of the other girls asking them to come back as counselors for the next year. I mentioned that I might be interested in an application and she laughed in my face! She said "You? Why would you want to come back?" I was mortified.
Needless to say, I was never a counselor. For years I ruminated over her laughing at me. I tried to figure out what it meant. What had I done to bring on that response? This was someone that I admired. Was I a horrible camper? What was wrong with me?
I had forgotten about this incident until a few weeks ago. It's always icky when you remember something negative from your past. Sometimes it can release your inner "mean girl" and cause you to flog yourself for ridiculously long periods of time. This time my mean girl didn't get a chance to pull out her whips and chains. I am no longer that young girl who just wanted to be a part of a group. I like who I am and what I do.
I release that negative experience into the past. Those words cannot hurt or haunt me anymore. Do you have some experiences that continue to haunt you? Can your "mean girl" appear and smack you around?
Let's talk about it. www.losinggracefully.com
Wednesday, June 19, 2013
Stepmoms Hurt Too

One of the hardest things I deal with, being a stepmother to 5 now adult children, is how to help when someone is hurting. My mama instincts are to grab them and hold them just like my mother would do when tough grown up things would happen. As a stepmother, most times, there is not an invite to do the mama bear thing. You have to make the right choice. Say the right words. Listen.
Several of the kids have had some growing pains the past few months. These are things that happen to young adults. I clearly remember my 20's and how hard everything was. The adjustment from school, where there were holidays, to work, where they expected you to show up all the time and on time, was just plain awful. The real world is a rude awakening. When my nephew graduated from college, he kept saying it was the worst day of his life. We all thought it was hilarious, but I believe he was speaking the truth. Reality bites!
Sometimes kids, whether you are the parent or the step parent, do not want to share what they are going through. This is where you have to have patience and prepare to pray A LOT to you maker. You know they are hurting but you can do nothing. Rough place to be. You might want to just check in with them and let them know you are around and available to listen if they want to talk. Eventually they will tell you. In the meantime, don't find a reason to eat a load of Ben and Jerry's while you are waiting for them to call. That will open up another issue!
Thursday, May 16, 2013
This picture totally cracks me up! These are my dogs, Molly and Stu at the dog park. Molly is the one with her tongue hanging out, the joyful look on her face and her paws in the water bowl. Poor Stu is the one with the nasty glare. What you don't see is that Molly has the ball and has placed it into the water bowl. Stu, being the dutiful brother, is patiently waiting for her to allow him to grab the ball and bring it to me.
I learn alot from these dogs. Molly is 2 years younger, loves to counter surf and always full of energy. Stu is my little gentleman. He takes care of his sister. He has wonderful manners but is all about the ball. He is focused. He lives for our daily dog park visits.
Each day, Stu will run into the park and check out every ball in order to find the "ball of the day". No other ball will do. If Molly catches the ball, he will follow her until she gives it to him. If another dog steals the ball, he will not get aggressive. He will wait until they lose interest. Then he grabs it and brings it to me. When I am throwing the ball, Stu is completely in the moment. Nothing exists outside of that tennis ball. No matter what else is going on at the park, he won't get involved. The ball is king. I am amazed at his ability to tune out all distractions and concentrate on what he finds important.
I wish I had such focus! Often I find myself getting muddled in the brain due to having too many things going on at the same time. The important things get mixed in with the trivial events an instead of doing one thing well, many things get done half assed. I need to focus like Stu. He does one thing and he does it very well.
I learn alot from these dogs. Molly is 2 years younger, loves to counter surf and always full of energy. Stu is my little gentleman. He takes care of his sister. He has wonderful manners but is all about the ball. He is focused. He lives for our daily dog park visits.
Each day, Stu will run into the park and check out every ball in order to find the "ball of the day". No other ball will do. If Molly catches the ball, he will follow her until she gives it to him. If another dog steals the ball, he will not get aggressive. He will wait until they lose interest. Then he grabs it and brings it to me. When I am throwing the ball, Stu is completely in the moment. Nothing exists outside of that tennis ball. No matter what else is going on at the park, he won't get involved. The ball is king. I am amazed at his ability to tune out all distractions and concentrate on what he finds important.
I wish I had such focus! Often I find myself getting muddled in the brain due to having too many things going on at the same time. The important things get mixed in with the trivial events an instead of doing one thing well, many things get done half assed. I need to focus like Stu. He does one thing and he does it very well.
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Friday, May 10, 2013
Straight From The Oval Office
Yesterday instead of putting out my blog, I snuck off to the Bush Library with a close friend. I had only been to one other presidential library. It was amazing. President Bush was the president when our lives changed for good. When we learned that we were not safe from terrorist attacks.
The team that put the library together did an excellent job. They handled the acknowledgement of a very sad and scary time in our world, with dignity. My friend and I (and many others) had tears in our eyes as we read letters from people (not just dignitaries) and speeches from President Bush.
We are so lucky to have a Presidential Library in Dallas. Regardless of your political affiliations, you need to put visiting the library a priority. It is history.
They also have a replica of the Oval office. Note the picture! Me running the world. Watch out!
The team that put the library together did an excellent job. They handled the acknowledgement of a very sad and scary time in our world, with dignity. My friend and I (and many others) had tears in our eyes as we read letters from people (not just dignitaries) and speeches from President Bush.
We are so lucky to have a Presidential Library in Dallas. Regardless of your political affiliations, you need to put visiting the library a priority. It is history.
They also have a replica of the Oval office. Note the picture! Me running the world. Watch out!
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Wednesday, May 1, 2013
Dancing With Bullets!
This is my year of stepping through fear. To challenge myself. This past weekend I did something I thought I would never do. I went to training for a Concealed Handgun License. For several years, I had toyed with the idea of buying a gun for protection purposes. A friend convinced me to attend the class, then decide on a gun.
We booked the class in January and the first date available was a 12 hour class on April 27. The class was packed. I am grateful to Mark at Elite Handgun Academy. He made a long class fun and informative. Before class started, there was a list of guns for purchase and I spent some time perusing over what would be my future gun.
The material was interesting and I never got bored, but as the day wore on, I wanted a gun less and less. As a matter of fact, I began to dread the idea of going to the range and shooting at a human looking target. Now don't get me wrong, I can shoot. My family has a farm, so I know my way around a shotgun. I have no problem shooting a snake. In my opinion, the only good snake is a dead snake, but I digress.
Once at the range, I was scared. I realized I don't like the thought of ever aiming a gun at a human being, even a paper rendition. During the qualifying test, I found myself shaking a bit and having to stop and take some deep breaths. I got through it and passed! If my family or myself were in a life threatening situation, no problem. I pray that never happens.
My take away? Guns are scary. I think everyone should get their CHL. I now know all about gun safety and can defend myself and family if ever necessary. This is the year of stepping through my fear. I stepped to my edge and jumped. I survived.
What can you do that will challenge you? Want to talk about it?
www.losinggracefully.com
We booked the class in January and the first date available was a 12 hour class on April 27. The class was packed. I am grateful to Mark at Elite Handgun Academy. He made a long class fun and informative. Before class started, there was a list of guns for purchase and I spent some time perusing over what would be my future gun.
The material was interesting and I never got bored, but as the day wore on, I wanted a gun less and less. As a matter of fact, I began to dread the idea of going to the range and shooting at a human looking target. Now don't get me wrong, I can shoot. My family has a farm, so I know my way around a shotgun. I have no problem shooting a snake. In my opinion, the only good snake is a dead snake, but I digress.
Once at the range, I was scared. I realized I don't like the thought of ever aiming a gun at a human being, even a paper rendition. During the qualifying test, I found myself shaking a bit and having to stop and take some deep breaths. I got through it and passed! If my family or myself were in a life threatening situation, no problem. I pray that never happens.
My take away? Guns are scary. I think everyone should get their CHL. I now know all about gun safety and can defend myself and family if ever necessary. This is the year of stepping through my fear. I stepped to my edge and jumped. I survived.
What can you do that will challenge you? Want to talk about it?
www.losinggracefully.com
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Pretty Things
I love purses. My close friends call me a purse whore. I actually have quite a collection. I take care of them and rotate them for years. At this time, I have enough purses to outfit everyone in my Zumba class with at least 2 per person.
I have enough.
This of course did not stop me when I saw the lovely piece of awesomeness that is pictured here. The moment I saw it, I rushed right out and snagged this beauty. I justified it because I didn't have a purse that had white leather. I quickly brought my purchase home, but for some reason, I didn'tput it into rotation immediately.
After a few days, I realized that I did not even think about my purchase. I saw it and basically shut my brain down and bought it. No thinking allowed.
How many times do we do that in our eating? Do you ever sit down at the table or better yet, in front of the TV and choose not to pay attention to the food in front of you. Then suddenly it is gone and you are stuffed. Remorse and regret set in.
I didn't need a new purse. Once I sobered up from my "got to have it" high, I returned my little lovely so it could end up in someone else's collection.
Think before you do.
Do you need some help with your thought process towards weight loss?
www.losinggracefully.com
Let's change your thoughts and get you to your heallthy weight.
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
No More Buts
I have noticed lately that there are way too many buts in my life. I am sure you know which buts I am talking about. "I meant to but..." type of but.
Friends, clients, and even family seem to be using these words quite often. I won't go into detail about them, but I want to mainly talk about my buts. I am butting myself silly. What benefit is the word but? It is an excuse word. You know after every but, an excuse will follow.
Actually, I have been writing this one post for 2 weeks because I seem to get stuck in the buts. Ugh!
I am forcing myself to get through this so I can post something completely different tomorrow.
The big promise I am making to you and myself is that I will try to drop the excuse but from my vocabulary. No more buts!
Friends, clients, and even family seem to be using these words quite often. I won't go into detail about them, but I want to mainly talk about my buts. I am butting myself silly. What benefit is the word but? It is an excuse word. You know after every but, an excuse will follow.
Actually, I have been writing this one post for 2 weeks because I seem to get stuck in the buts. Ugh!
I am forcing myself to get through this so I can post something completely different tomorrow.
The big promise I am making to you and myself is that I will try to drop the excuse but from my vocabulary. No more buts!
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Almost Finished!
I must admit I am completely bored with my subject. Kitchen is not done yet. But we are close. Very close.
It is exciting and excruciating at the same time! In the next week, I should have my home back. No longer will there be legions of men in my house, making loads of noise at all hours of the day.
I will have my bedroom back as a bedroom.
I can move the kitchen items back into the kitchen.
My office will be relocated from the 6 bags of files in the closet, back to my office.
My dogs will be able to live in the whole house and not just our bedroom. Molly will no longer destroy everything in site just to let me know that she isn't happy to be trapped in a room with scary noises outside. My house will smell better.
I have been busy waiting. The best part about this situation? I have been coaching the heck out of myself! I have learned so much about thought work. I am confident in my craft.
Now I am ready to coach the heck out of you. www.losinggracefully.com Lets work together.
It is exciting and excruciating at the same time! In the next week, I should have my home back. No longer will there be legions of men in my house, making loads of noise at all hours of the day.
I will have my bedroom back as a bedroom.
I can move the kitchen items back into the kitchen.
My office will be relocated from the 6 bags of files in the closet, back to my office.
My dogs will be able to live in the whole house and not just our bedroom. Molly will no longer destroy everything in site just to let me know that she isn't happy to be trapped in a room with scary noises outside. My house will smell better.
I have been busy waiting. The best part about this situation? I have been coaching the heck out of myself! I have learned so much about thought work. I am confident in my craft.
Now I am ready to coach the heck out of you. www.losinggracefully.com Lets work together.
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Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Eat Healthy? Ha!
We are doing a kitchen remodel. Nick and I have wanted to do this for 8 years. A dream come true! Now that it is happening, we are in the midst of a nightmare. We have been with out a working kitchen for 2 weeks. I have learned so much from this experience.
The project was to start in February. Due to a hiccup, they could not start until March. I handled that situation with grace. People were amazed at how I was so calm and cool while dealing with complete craziness. Since the construction started and we lost the use of our kitchen, I have turned into a complete witch! I have no patience, I am grumpy, and my poor husband has to put up with this behavior. He is a saint.
I spent some time trying to figure out why I am not happy while this change, that I have desperately wanted, takes place. I believe it is due to the fact that we are eating out everyday. We love to eat at home. We eat pretty normal. I would say healthy, but we do eat some evil foods, so lets just stick with normal. When we started this process, we thought we would have salads everyday and lose weight while we have no kitchen. I had visions of chopping all sorts of raw foods at our dining room table. Ha! We have either dined out or brought home take out every single night. I am sick of it! I have people in my house all the time and there are loud noises and weird smells. Dust is everywhere! The dogs are being needy as they don't understand what is happening. Everywhere I go, they follow closely. I feel like I am leading a school of fish!
Enough! The positives? The crew are very respectful and it looks like we only have one more week to go before they will finish. We have some great friends and family who have taken us in and fed us. When it is over, we will have an awesome new kitchen! Once we have it back, I believe we will be eating at home for awhile. Wahoo!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
What Brings You Joy?
Meet Griz! Griz is a 10 month old golden retriever that I see almost daily, when I take my dogs to the park. Griz is the funniest dog I have ever met. I would say that he brings me 80% of my daily belly laughs.
I believe that everyone should have, at the minimum, one good belly laugh a day. A belly laugh is a laugh that comes from the gut. A laugh that is joyful! We spend too much time being serious. It is so easy to lose sight of the day to day comedy. Our lives are hilarious!
Take Griz and his sweet, very patient Momma. She is trying to teach Griz some manners. Griz is a bit of a slow learner. Momma is trying to teach Griz not to jump on people. She has tried absolutely everything from yelling 'NO' to sprays and now currently a tin pan (dogs don't like the sound). Griz's mom has become a ninja, trying to get there in plenty of time when Griz wants to jump up to say hello.
Of course we are all bad enforcers. Griz is just so stinkin cute that you kinda want him to jump up and say hello. I mean seriously, look at that face? He is a happy dog! Griz's antics can get a laugh from me everytime. I am so grateful for Griz and his Momma.
What gives you a belly laugh? Are you laughing every day? Give it a try, it is good for your health!
I believe that everyone should have, at the minimum, one good belly laugh a day. A belly laugh is a laugh that comes from the gut. A laugh that is joyful! We spend too much time being serious. It is so easy to lose sight of the day to day comedy. Our lives are hilarious!
Take Griz and his sweet, very patient Momma. She is trying to teach Griz some manners. Griz is a bit of a slow learner. Momma is trying to teach Griz not to jump on people. She has tried absolutely everything from yelling 'NO' to sprays and now currently a tin pan (dogs don't like the sound). Griz's mom has become a ninja, trying to get there in plenty of time when Griz wants to jump up to say hello.
Of course we are all bad enforcers. Griz is just so stinkin cute that you kinda want him to jump up and say hello. I mean seriously, look at that face? He is a happy dog! Griz's antics can get a laugh from me everytime. I am so grateful for Griz and his Momma.
What gives you a belly laugh? Are you laughing every day? Give it a try, it is good for your health!
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Thursday, February 28, 2013
Sometimes Me Gets Lost
I am not complaining, but sometimes I get a little lost when there is so much going on. Husband needs things, kids have issues that need attention, and the dogs want the ball! Taxes need to be done. Items need to be moved from one area to another. I have no place to have my office during the renovation. There are never enough hours in the day! It is so easy to lose Me when life is busy. The old Cynthia would have been grumpy and whining to any and all who will listen while shoving a cheeseburger and fries into my face as fast as possible. Oh and I would wash it all down with a side of chocolate cake and a huge vat of wine!
Through out all the craziness of my day to day life, I have found that if I take at least an hour for myself, I can deal with anything that lands in my lap. I would not consider myself as an exercise junkie, but during crazy times, I have found that in order to keep my focus, an hour of Zumba or Bar Method gives me sanity and keeps the unneeded calories away. I have also got meditation on my to try list, just don't have time for that yet.
My point is that no matter what is going on in your life and how busy things can be, take some time for yourself. Remember that you have to be you in order to be at your best for everyone else! So what keeps you sane?
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Monday, February 25, 2013
Take The Leap!
I have not written in a few weeks but so much has happened that I believe I will have plenty of material for multiple blogs!
That is me flying through the air. A few weeks ago I went on a girls trip to my favorite place, Miraval in Tuscon, Arizona. It has become a very special place to me. Last year, while at Miraval, I learned about being Mindful and made the decision to become a life coach. I spent the rest of the year studying and getting certified.
This year, I decided to try the Quantum Leap. This is where you climb up a 35 foot telephone pole and get on to a one foot by 2 foot board, stand up and look around, say something profound and jump! When I saw the climb, I thought I would never make it. They made me go first. Deep breath! So, harnessed up and shaking, I started up the ladder. Made it up there pretty quickly with no issues. Now I needed to climb onto the actual pole. The pegs or staples are spaced for normal height people. I had to wrap my hand around the pole as I was climbing up to the next staple. I was amazed that I could lift my body weight so easily. I was able to get to the top at a normal pace. Then I had to climb onto the teeny tiny platform.
It was a windy day and the pole was swaying from that height. My legs were shaking as well. I took awhile before I stood up. I didn't want to give up and just fall. The goal was to stand up on the top of the pole. So, I did. I stood up and just jumped.
IT WAS AWESOME!
I never thought that I would be able to climb up a pole and jump off the pole 35 feet in the air. I was amazed that I wasn't scared to leap. I knew all was ok.
My take away from the exercise? It is good to experience things that will make your heart beat a bit faster. I am in better shape than I thought. It is ok to trust. The rewards are amazing! I still giggle when I think about it or see the pictures.
What will you find out about yourself if you were going to climb up and leap off of a 35 ft telephone pole? How about if you go ahead and commit to that food plan. What's the worst that could happen? The best that could happen?
I can help you get to the point where you can enjoy a challange. www.losinggracefully.com
Contact me for a free 30 minute session.
That is me flying through the air. A few weeks ago I went on a girls trip to my favorite place, Miraval in Tuscon, Arizona. It has become a very special place to me. Last year, while at Miraval, I learned about being Mindful and made the decision to become a life coach. I spent the rest of the year studying and getting certified.
This year, I decided to try the Quantum Leap. This is where you climb up a 35 foot telephone pole and get on to a one foot by 2 foot board, stand up and look around, say something profound and jump! When I saw the climb, I thought I would never make it. They made me go first. Deep breath! So, harnessed up and shaking, I started up the ladder. Made it up there pretty quickly with no issues. Now I needed to climb onto the actual pole. The pegs or staples are spaced for normal height people. I had to wrap my hand around the pole as I was climbing up to the next staple. I was amazed that I could lift my body weight so easily. I was able to get to the top at a normal pace. Then I had to climb onto the teeny tiny platform.
It was a windy day and the pole was swaying from that height. My legs were shaking as well. I took awhile before I stood up. I didn't want to give up and just fall. The goal was to stand up on the top of the pole. So, I did. I stood up and just jumped.
IT WAS AWESOME!
I never thought that I would be able to climb up a pole and jump off the pole 35 feet in the air. I was amazed that I wasn't scared to leap. I knew all was ok.
My take away from the exercise? It is good to experience things that will make your heart beat a bit faster. I am in better shape than I thought. It is ok to trust. The rewards are amazing! I still giggle when I think about it or see the pictures.
What will you find out about yourself if you were going to climb up and leap off of a 35 ft telephone pole? How about if you go ahead and commit to that food plan. What's the worst that could happen? The best that could happen?
I can help you get to the point where you can enjoy a challange. www.losinggracefully.com
Contact me for a free 30 minute session.
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Wednesday, February 6, 2013
Thank God For Coaching!
This is a view from my back door. It has been this way for the past week. What was going to be a 3 day event, has turned into a week and counting.
The reason the incompleted fence is crazy and out of mine and my contractor's hands. The City of Dallas is currently ruling over this situation. It is enough to place someone on an IV of valium.
In past years, I would have been ranting and raving and stuffing my face with every sweet available. When I got the phone call about the stop work order, I must admit that I did growl for a minute, but that was all.
My mind immediately went to all the information I have learned on how to handle things. This situation was out of my control, so I wasn't going to lose control. I was able to coach myself out of a dangerous moment. Nary a cookie was eaten and all the people I have had to interact with over this matter have gotten the kind and relaxed Cynthia and not the angry, out of control Cynthia. It felt wonderful!
I hate that my backyard looks trashy and icky, but I love the fact that I stayed calm and focused and that I know my coaching ability. The backyard will get done, just not as quick as I would like.
Wow! I am an awesome coach!
I would like to help you feel wonderful and focused too. www.losinggracefully.com
The reason the incompleted fence is crazy and out of mine and my contractor's hands. The City of Dallas is currently ruling over this situation. It is enough to place someone on an IV of valium.
In past years, I would have been ranting and raving and stuffing my face with every sweet available. When I got the phone call about the stop work order, I must admit that I did growl for a minute, but that was all.
My mind immediately went to all the information I have learned on how to handle things. This situation was out of my control, so I wasn't going to lose control. I was able to coach myself out of a dangerous moment. Nary a cookie was eaten and all the people I have had to interact with over this matter have gotten the kind and relaxed Cynthia and not the angry, out of control Cynthia. It felt wonderful!
I hate that my backyard looks trashy and icky, but I love the fact that I stayed calm and focused and that I know my coaching ability. The backyard will get done, just not as quick as I would like.
Wow! I am an awesome coach!
I would like to help you feel wonderful and focused too. www.losinggracefully.com
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Nom Nom! Food Crazy!
Ever felt like this picture? Have you ever thought about a food so much that you were obcessed by the time you got it and crammed it into your mouth? Did you even really taste it?
We do that. We deny ourselves something and quietly it builds up in our mind as the absolute best thing ever. Like a snowball rolling down the hill, it gains momentum until it is HUGE and we become quite crazed at the thought of getting whatever it is we wanted.
Once you get it, is it really worth all the press your brain gave that food? In most cases, I would bet no. This has happened to me many times. I will start thinking about a food, say in this instance, a cheeseburger from a local joint. At first it sounds good but the thought lingers. Then I go through the deny thought process where I tell myself I don't need the calories and should make better choices. Now that might quell my desire for the cheeseburger for a day or so, but the thought always comes back.
Then I decide that I can make a healthier cheeseburger at home and will do so. It just doesn't taste like it did at the local burger joint. Still not satissfied and still want that cheeseburger. Now, if you are like me, I will finally give in and eat so fast that I feel sick. I will eat more than I want and usually I come away thinking that is sounded better than it tasted. Not a happy ending.
I am going to try a new way when the craving for some particular food creeps its way into my brain. I am going to go and get it. Stick with me here as you are thinking I am encouraging you to eat unhealthy, etc. If you find that you are craving something, why spend countless days and calories trying to avoid that particular food, when you can just eat it and move on. Savor the flavor. BUT (and there is always a but), follow the rules. Go slow and only eat until you are full and leave the rest. If you are honest with yourself it might be only half the cheeseburger. You got what you wanted and you didn't end up gorging yourself. Win win if you ask me.
We do that. We deny ourselves something and quietly it builds up in our mind as the absolute best thing ever. Like a snowball rolling down the hill, it gains momentum until it is HUGE and we become quite crazed at the thought of getting whatever it is we wanted.
Once you get it, is it really worth all the press your brain gave that food? In most cases, I would bet no. This has happened to me many times. I will start thinking about a food, say in this instance, a cheeseburger from a local joint. At first it sounds good but the thought lingers. Then I go through the deny thought process where I tell myself I don't need the calories and should make better choices. Now that might quell my desire for the cheeseburger for a day or so, but the thought always comes back.
Then I decide that I can make a healthier cheeseburger at home and will do so. It just doesn't taste like it did at the local burger joint. Still not satissfied and still want that cheeseburger. Now, if you are like me, I will finally give in and eat so fast that I feel sick. I will eat more than I want and usually I come away thinking that is sounded better than it tasted. Not a happy ending.
I am going to try a new way when the craving for some particular food creeps its way into my brain. I am going to go and get it. Stick with me here as you are thinking I am encouraging you to eat unhealthy, etc. If you find that you are craving something, why spend countless days and calories trying to avoid that particular food, when you can just eat it and move on. Savor the flavor. BUT (and there is always a but), follow the rules. Go slow and only eat until you are full and leave the rest. If you are honest with yourself it might be only half the cheeseburger. You got what you wanted and you didn't end up gorging yourself. Win win if you ask me.
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Thursday, January 24, 2013
If Not Now, When?

Yesterday,I heard someone say "If not now, when?" and I actually stopped in my tracks. I have no idea in what context this person was using this statement, but it was a total game changer for me. Why do we wait on making changes? Let's look at some of the answers people give:
"I want to research this" Really? Haven't you been thinking about weight loss, moving, going back to school, or whatever it is for awhile now? Is there a difference between thinking about and 'seriously' thinking about a change?
"I am too busy" Busy being unhappy. If there is something on your mind that you know would improve your life, why are you even wasting one more day? Take a deep breath and leap!
"I am scared" Change is always scary. You can 'what if' yourself to death. But you are a strong person and can handle whatever happens. You have gotten this far in life. Why cheat yourself out of a victory? If you do nothing, then nothing is what you will get. Everyone's mission in life is to move forward. How will you move forward?
There are so many things going on currently in my life that I would love to say, "Whoa lets slow down for a little while and ponder on these decisions." That would be the wrong thing to do. It is very hard to leave the comfort of my bed every morning, but things must move forward. Life must be lived! Am I scared? Yes! Do I push through? Yes! The reward will be fantastic because I have earned it.
I am standing on my soapbox because lately I have seen way too many people who are miserable in their lives, because they are choosing not to live it! So, I encourage you to take the leap of faith and just go ahead and do it. Don't try, do! The worst that can happen is that you end up where you are now. The best? Well that is whatever you want it to be. New Job? Lose weight? Better relationships and less toxic people in your life? You name it and then do it!
I can help. I can guide you through this process. www.losinggracefully.com
"I am too busy" Busy being unhappy. If there is something on your mind that you know would improve your life, why are you even wasting one more day? Take a deep breath and leap!
"I am scared" Change is always scary. You can 'what if' yourself to death. But you are a strong person and can handle whatever happens. You have gotten this far in life. Why cheat yourself out of a victory? If you do nothing, then nothing is what you will get. Everyone's mission in life is to move forward. How will you move forward?
There are so many things going on currently in my life that I would love to say, "Whoa lets slow down for a little while and ponder on these decisions." That would be the wrong thing to do. It is very hard to leave the comfort of my bed every morning, but things must move forward. Life must be lived! Am I scared? Yes! Do I push through? Yes! The reward will be fantastic because I have earned it.
I am standing on my soapbox because lately I have seen way too many people who are miserable in their lives, because they are choosing not to live it! So, I encourage you to take the leap of faith and just go ahead and do it. Don't try, do! The worst that can happen is that you end up where you are now. The best? Well that is whatever you want it to be. New Job? Lose weight? Better relationships and less toxic people in your life? You name it and then do it!
I can help. I can guide you through this process. www.losinggracefully.com
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Friday, January 18, 2013
We Are Doomed!
It is so hard to step out of your comfort zone. It is terribly scary. People love to say they embrace change, but when asked to truly change, they can find all sorts of reasons why it won't work. Einstein's statement is so true! Unfortunately, you spend way too much time repeating your mistakes instead of taking a deep breath and moving forward and changing your life.
If you hate your job, update your resume and starting looking for the next position. The only thing that is holding you back from success is YOU! What is the worst thing that will happen to you? You end up in the same job? Well, that is what is going on now...you are experiencing the worst. I am just starting up my own weight loss coaching business. It is scary to try to market myself and to make those cold calls. Is it because I am not good at what I do. Heck no! I worked hard to earn my certification and I know I am good. Just because you are good, doesn't mean the clients fall into your lap. You have to get your name out there and develop your client base. It takes time and focus. It would be so easy to just go back and get a job in the weight loss business. Would I be happy? Nope. Right now, though I am afraid of my next step, I am excited to see where it will lead me! Is it easy? No way! This is one of the hardest things I have ever done.
When it comes to weight loss are you doomed to repeat the same mistakes over and over again? What is keeping you from moving forward? Why not contact me and we can get your brain working differently on how you see food. Is it hard? Yes! Is there dieting? No, those don't work. Will you be successful? That is up to you. If you are ready to try something else because the same old diet commitment hasn't ever worked for you, or it worked for awhile and failed, then consider weight loss coaching. Let's get you to your forever healthy weight. Train your brain to think differently about food. Lose the weight. Be a healthy success story. You can do this. I can help.
www.losinggracefully.com
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