12/30- But in case I stand one little chance, here comes the jackpot question in advance- What are you doing New Year's, New Year's Eve?

Weight Loss for the Week: 0lbs

Ok, so I didn't end up losing during the holidays, but I didn't gain.  I am happy about that.  I have done some form of exercise each day which has been good.  I have also indulged a bit each day.  We now have all the cookies, candy, cake, etc. out of the house which means the temptation is gone.  Now, time to hit the grocery store and get stuff ready for the week so I can keep on track. I know I will be splurging some tomorrow night and at a party Tuesday afternoon, but if the rest of my meals are prepared, then I can keep them low point and help balance some.

My break has been really nice- and even a bit productive.  I have completed my lessons, and even planned the basics of the first units, for my classes.  I need to tweak a few still I think because I changed my mind a few times and all that.  It's nice to be done with the necessary though- I had nightmares two nights in a row that Wednesday morning rolled around and I had nothing prepared and the students mutinied and it was just bad. That was enough incentive for me to spend a day getting it all planned.  I may have to go up to the school and print a few things off still, but nothing so major that it's worrisome.

Christmas was really nice. My family had a nice dinner, followed by some fun games and then opening presents the next morning.  I got some stuff for my future apartment which makes me so excited :)  We also made a rather amusing Christmas card, hehe.

It is almost New Year's Eve, the year is almost over.  I cannot believe how quickly it all went and how much has changed over the past year.  I have lost 65lbs since last January. I have a new job and finally feel as though I am truly starting my career- and I'm loving it, even when I feel like I'm going crazy, I'm loving it. I have begun to think about my future and really started planning for it. I am single again, but definitely realizing how much better it is to be single than in the wrong relationship.  And, I've really been able to see what I want in a man and in a relationship, and that's true progress :)  Also, I have had wonderful family and friends helping me through all of these journeys- even if it exhausted them at times.  I will always be grateful for their love and support more than they will ever know. 

I finally feel like I'm in control of my life and my destiny and I have not ever truly felt that way before.   I know that this next year will bring its own set of challenges and that I still have a ways to go before I am done with my weight loss goals and other personal goals. But I know that I can do it and I have faith in myself that I will do it.

Now, for a look back at the last year and my weight loss in the following photos. I'll do one Before and After, and then one for each month.
                                                             Before and After

                                                 January- Seize the Clay with Memaw

                                                                    
                                                    February- Hanging with Lizzy

                                                  March- Happy St. Patrick's Day!

                                                            April- Brunch at Bosco's!

                                                 Redbird's Game in the rain

                                                      May- Europe photos!
                                                             Budapest!

                     
                                                                  Vienna!

                                         Salzburg- Sound of Music Tour with my Dad!

                                       Salzburg- Sound of Music Tour with my Dad!

                            
                                                               London!

                                                   June- Celebrating my new job!

                                                             July- Liz visiting!

                                                    August- First Day of School!

                                             September- Downtown Museum Day!

                                                    
                                              October- Visiting MK in Ft. Worth!

                                             November- Thanksgiving in CO!

                                              December- Christmas in Memphis!

Haste, haste to bring him laud, the babe, the son of Mary

Weight Loss for the Week: 0lbs

This week was chock full of holiday goodies, parties, brunches, dinners, etc.  O.M.G. The food was all delicious and I made sure to eat any fruit or salads at the events. I also tried most of the carb-loaded treats too.  I worked on portion control though, which definitely helped.  It's like my Pepaw always said- "A little dab'll do you."  I work hard to remember that when I see plates full of cookies, cakes, breads, dips, casseroles, etc.  And I do notice that I'm getting fuller faster than last year for sure.  So, that's a really good sign.

I am officially on Christmas Break :)  We had exams this week and most of the kids did well enough on them so I was pleased with that. Only a few still struggling and I encouraged them to come to tutoring next semester- fingers crossed that they do.  And grading the exams was actually not too bad- a bunch of us got together, turned on the Christmas music and it went by quickly.  We also did our Secret Santa exchange this week and I got some nice wine and some really cool/cute wine accessories.  That definitely motivated me to get those exams graded so break could start and I could enjoy my new treats :)

 The last few days have been semi-packed with seeing friends for catch-up dinners, gift exchanges, and all that good stuff.  It has been a blast.  And then today my mom had her Christmas brunch which was so fun and tasty and put most everyone in the mood for a nap. 

And here are a few new photos of me with the tree and then me with my mom and grandmother in front of the tree :)  We're so festive!

12/16- Westward leading, still proceeding, guide us to thy perfect light.

Weight Loss for the Week: 2lbs

This week was good planning wise.  I stuck to my meals and didn't splurge too much.  I got in some good exercise- though the half of it was just running around like a chicken with my head cut off attempting to prep for exams and the end of the semester, not to mention Christmas. 

I had a pretty decent week overall.  There were definitely a few moments where my students got a bit crazy, but no where near as much as I thought they would with Christmas break getting ever closer.  I actually got to take my sophomores on a field trip this week- it was the first field trip I've ever planned.  We went to see "Life of Pi" since they finished reading it last week.  All 30 of them were excited and able to go and I was glad we were approved to go see it.  I did have my doubts about taking that many kids to a movie theater (yes, there were other chaperones, but it's still 30 teenagers at a movie theater). They behaved really well, only a few moments of having to tell one or two of them to shush.  And they paid attention pretty well- I know a few fell asleep towards the end, but I'll take sleeping over talking or causing a disturbance any day.

They really liked it and did well when we compared the book and the movie.  I was so proud of all the differences they caught and their opinions about it.  Now, I know not all of them read every single word of that long book, but I do know they all read some of it, and they all had to discuss it, take quizzes, a test, and do a writing exercise on it.  So, I think they earned getting to see the movie (and taking a quiz and having a debate on it of course).  It was a good unit overall.

Ok, enough of the school stuff.  I am almost done with my Christmas shopping and baking.  My next major to-do for the holiday is to address my Christmas cards and get those in the mail.  My goal is to do that by Tuesday.  Fingers crossed, folks, thanks.

I'm also preparing for all the holiday events coming up, especially the holiday eating.  I know some people say to just expect to gain up to 5lbs over the holidays and not to stress so much about it.  I'm just afraid if I start justifying or rationalizing gaining holiday weight, I won't stop.  And I just can't go back to how I used to be.  So, I am working on portion control with all my favorite fatty goodies, and I'm working on planning ahead to make sure my other meals are low points and healthy.  Finally, I'm looking ahead to see when I can and need to either go on a walk or do the elliptical.  With this in mind, I know I can make myself stay on track while still enjoying myself. 

Oh, speaking of holiday foods, I have yet to have eggnog this year.  If you know me, you know how insane this sounds.  I LOVE eggnog.  I don't even want to know how many points it is because I am sure it would take all my weekly's.  This year, I haven't had a huge urge to go and down a bottle or two yet.  I know I will want some, but I'm waiting until after exams are done and graded because then I will have the time to walk it off and it will almost be out of the stores so I won't be able to go and buy a ton.  I will just be able to get my taste of it and then be done with it.

Ok, time to go finish grading end of the quarter assignments.

12/9- As the snow lay round about, deep and crisp and even.

Weight Loss for the Week: 1lb

I was much more prepared for this past week in terms of planning my meals and exercise times.  And it definitely helped, especially since I knew there were would be a few nights out for various occasions.  That gives me hope as Christmas gets closer and more holiday parties, etc. pop up on my agenda.

I had a nice week, very quick and busy.  Definitely had to stop a few times and remember what day it was and what class period it was.  I have a feeling this week will be even more like that since it's the last real week of school for the semester.  I feel like I am prepared for the end of it all though.  My exams are prepared.  I have just about caught up on all my grading.  I know how each class will wind down this semester this week.  All I really need to do right now is create study guides to make sure my students know what they should focus on the most while they study. 

This weekend has been nice, aside from all the school insanity.  I got to go to Starry Nights at Shelby Farms last night with a good friend and her family.  It was so pretty.  And I about died laughing at her two-year old daughter's reactions to all the lights, and her complete impatience when we had to wait to see more lights, lol! She is such a doll. Today, I went to a Christmas Evensong with my mother.  Nothing gets me in the mood for the holidays quite like Christmas music.  It was so lovely.

Now, time to get some sleep before the week begins :)

12/2- Christmas time is here, happiness and cheer, fun for all that children call their favorite time of year.

Weight Loss for the Week- 0lbs

I ate out way too much this week.  I worked out a decent bit as well, which would be why I didn't gain.  With the holidays upon us, eating out with friends is so tempting and fun.  I've got to get better about planning ahead and not always doing it spur of the moment.  Always room for improvement, right?

Otherwise, this week was fine.  My students were mostly good, a few moments of OMGWTF, but that happens as well. I think we'll all be okay for the rest of the year.  Two and half weeks until Christmas Break- that's insane.  I feel like it's all just whizzing past me at warp speed and I'm standing here wondering how we're going to finish all our material.

I've been decorating my rooms at school and my room at home.  I love gearing up for the holidays :)  The festive touches always make me feel happier and just seem to make it all better.  I went around looking at Christmas lights with a friend last night- we totally judged the houses in each neighborhood and assigned winners.  Some people clearly had planned, some clearly though lights are lights are lights and that planning or matching is not needed. 

Now, to finish planning and prepping for the week so I can go to a Christmas party tonight!

11/25- I have my books and my poetry to protect me; I am shielded in my armor.

Weight Loss for the Week: .5lbs

I had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday.  I got to go out to Denver to visit my father and stepmother. And, for the first time in years, my brother joined us.  It was so nice to have the family all together for a holiday.  I was able to go out Tuesday night- I thought I was being clever and avoiding the insanity of the Wednesday travelers. I was not so clever since so many other people clearly had the same idea.  Suffice it to say, my second flight was a bit delayed and I did not get in until almost midnight.  Thankfully, my dad was still willing to pick me up at that hour.

It was wonderful being out there during my break.  We went for nice long walks almost every day- something I have hated doing in the past, but looked forward to this year.  We even touched the green gate each time.  My dad claims if you don't touch the green gate that's on part of the path, then your walk doesn't count. 

See, I touched the Green Gate- no worries, we didn't trespass.


For our Thanksgiving meal, we had a total of sixteen, yes sixteen, people.  My stepmom picked up the stragglers, as she called them, from her work and they joined us in celebrating this year.  We had so much food, it was insane.  And it was all so delicious.  Some of it was nutritious, some it of not so much.  I made the Sweet Potato Casserole and the WW version of Squash Casserole.  They were both enjoyed and devoured.  I did fairly well with portion control, until it came time for dessert.  Now, I knew I was pretty close to full, but my dad had made cheesecake and my stepmom had made whipped cream from scratch.  I simply could not pass it up.  I had to do a longer walk the next day to help make up for it.

Aren't we a good-looking family?


We also went shopping for some new clothes and accessories for me.  I hit the jackpot.  I got plenty of cute new clothes, earrings, necklaces, and a purse.  I am very pleased with my haul.  And I am very thankful to my parents for my early Christmas gift.  Now, I can be stylin' for the holidays :)

I had a great time visiting, relaxing, and enjoying all the beautiful views of the Rockies.   And I'm glad that even though I splurged some for the holiday, I was able to counteract it with exercise and was able to lose some weight again this week.

Here's the Squash Casserole Recipe if you would like to try it.

 Squash Casserole Recipe

3 cups Squash

1 tbsp. Chopped Onion

4-5 slices Cooked and Crumbled Turkey Bacon

3 Egg Whites, well beaten

¾ cup Grated Reduced Fat Cheddar Cheese

Salt & Pepper to taste

1 stick Margarine

Cook squash until tender.  Season with salt, pepper, butter and onion.  Add well beaten eggs and mix well.  Put layer of squash in baking dish.  Add layer of crumbled bacon and cheese.  Repeat layer.  Add cheese on top.  Bake about 30 minutes.  

November 18- Strong inside, but you don't know it. Good little girls, they never show it. When you open up your mouth to speak, could you be a little weak?

Weight Loss for the Week: 1lb

I cannot believe we are a mere four days away from Thanksgiving now.  This year has gone by so quickly.  I am excited to go to my dad and stepmom's for Thanksgiving and relax and enjoy some family time :) I've already a nice conversation with my stepmom about the meal- I will be making a Weight Watchers version of one of my favorite family recipes, Squash Casserole.  It is also one of my dad's favorites so I hope he enjoys the healthier version of it.

I did more with meal planning and elliptical workouts this week which was very helpful.  That is ever the key- plan ahead with most of the week's meals and make sure to stay active.  It's also nicer on the budget to plan ahead as opposed to eating out a bunch.  That was always my biggest downfall when I was at my heaviest.  I did not want to make my meals ahead of time, I liked eating out and I liked pigging out.  Don't get me wrong, I still like to go out, but I have a better understanding of how to balance my meals and make sure it won't cost me in the long run.

I also continued getting into the holiday mood this week, surprising I know.  The Memphis Zoo hosts Zoo Lights every year for the holidays.  They kicked it off this year with their Tree Lighting on Friday.  I went to the Tree Lighting with my mom and a friend.  Then, my friend and I went through Zoo Lights.  It was such a great way to get in the holiday mood :)

                                                             The Tree Lighting

Some of the Zoo Lights

Now, time for some planning, grading, cleaning, and packing so that I am ready for this short school week and Thanksgiving vacation :)

11/11- Flying down the highway in a makeshift Model TA; it's a beautiful morning and it's going to be a beautiful day

Weight Loss for This Week: 1lb

This week was much more regimented in terms of planning ahead for almost all my meals.  And I made a point to do my elliptical a few times this week.  It definitely helps keep me on track and to stay motivated.  After last week, I knew I needed to do so, especially with Thanksgiving right around the corner.

Work this week was alright, the students are definitely getting a little stir crazy in anticipation of the holiday season and upcoming breaks.  Hopefully, they will get back to staying on track so that the rest of the semester is smooth and bearable.

My weekend has been nice.  I had a nice dinner with a friend Friday night. Saturday morning, my mom and I ended up getting a few new Christmas decorations- don't even pretend to be surprised, it is my favorite holiday. In fact, I may have been listening to a few of my Christmas CD's the past few days.  It's just such a joyful season.  I know I don't want to see anything in the stores before Halloween, but once we're past that, I'm usually okay with it.  I know I should want to wait for Thanksgiving to be over first, but I'm not huge into decorating for Thanksgiving. And there aren't a lot of Thanksgiving tunes or movies, so, I'm definitely about ready for Christmas to be upon us.

I am looking forward to this Thanksgiving though.  I will be going to visit my dad and stepmom :)  It will be the first time my stepmom has seen me since I began losing weight.  I'm excited for her to see me in person instead of just the photos online.

Ok, time to finish prepping and grading :)

11/4- Outcast and girls with ambition, that's what I long to see

Weight Loss for this Week: 0lbs.

So, no weight loss.  Actually, mid-week, it was weight gain.  I ate horribly on Halloween and gained a full pound from that day.  So, I am thankful that went down by today.  Still need to work on not eating so much crap on holidays.  Definitely a lesson to learn before Thanksgiving and Christmas.  There are just so many treats associated with all these holidays.  It really will be a learning experience for me.  I may need to start reading some of the articles WW posts about holiday eating and all that.

Otherwise, this week was alright.  Halloween was a little nuts with the students, but not too bad all things considered.  Plus, I had the day after off- yay for Catholic schools and Holy Days of Obligation!!! It did make Friday kind of odd though.  I was fairly certain it was Monday almost all day. It was a nice feeling by the end of the day that it really was Friday and the weekend really was starting. 

I had a nice weekend.  Saturday morning, my mom and I went all over Bed, Bath, and Beyond and Macy's and I registered for "Apartment Warming" Items- i.e. stuff I can buy over the next few months as I prepare to move out.  Also, stuff the parentals, etc. can consider getting for Christmas :)  I really liked the scanning gun, hehe. Saturday night, I enjoyed a scary movie night at a friend's.  It was fun vegging out and getting a bit scared from a few of the movies and then laughing at others- check out Thankskilling if you ever get the chance. 

Today has been mainly about the prepping and grading.  I'm mostly prepared and caught up, thank goodness. Now, I am ready to get some sleep and start the week.

10/28- I am the shadow on the moon at night, filling your dreams to the brim with fright. This is Halloween.

Weight Loss for this Week: 1lb

I have officially lost 60lbs!!! Woot!!!

What I am totally loving about losing weight: Clothes that used to be too tight now fitting; buying clothes in smaller sizes; having clothes taken in; having more energy throughout the day; not breathing heavily every time I get up or go for a walk; being able to exercise more often and for longer periods of time; having more confidence; enjoying how I look; and many other things.

This past week was fun, hectic, fast.  We had a pumpkin decorating contest at the school so most of my afternoons were spent helping with that.  My house did The Wizard of Oz- it was so cute!!!

Even though we didn't win, the kids were still pretty proud and it was fun putting it all together. 

We also had our Halloween Dance at school this past Friday.  It was weird chaperoning my first dance.  It was really nice chatting with other teachers and watching the kids get their groove on :)

Saturday morning, I did Race for the Cure with my friend's company's group. It was so packed! It was an insane sea of pink the whole time which was cool though a bit overwhelming. We made decent time considering how crowded it was.  Then, I came home and finally passed out from exhaustion from the business of the whole week.

Now, time to grade, prep and lesson plan :)

10/22- A pinch of your brother, a teaspoon of you, with the head of your sister would make a good stew. I'd give you a taste, but your tongue's in the stew

Weight Loss this Week- 0lbs.

I would have lost weight if I hadn't splurged Friday and Saturday.  But I did, I went and celebrated a friend's birthday on Friday.  And on Saturday I just splurged cause it was dinner and a movie night with a friend. 

I'm a bit sick of plateauing. I think I know what to do to kick start the larger weight loss amounts again, but I get busy and just don't seem to get around to it.  I need to do better. I will do better.  It helps that I'm about to do a few 5ks in the next month and a half.  In fact, I have the first this Saturday.  I'm doing Race for the Cure with my friend's work group.  I am quite excited to be a part of that.  It's great to raise money for a good cause and to have a goal to work towards workout wise.

I did better with the eating during the week and going on the elliptical a few times.  I just need to make sure I keep that up and increase it. 

Otherwise, the week was okay.  It was a weird week at the school.  I only saw my freshmen once, my sophomores had testing and I had to make my seniors be as close to silent as possible due to the testing. And I couldn't go in my room since they used it for testing in the mornings.  I was just thrown out of my loop most of the week.  I know it seems like it would be easier to have no classes or to have the BS classes that occur when students are burnt out from testing, but I am so happy to be back to a normal week with a normal schedule and the ability to get to really teach.

This weekend was good :)  I had fun celebrating my friend's birthday with her.  We had a wonderful conversation and got to sit outside at one of our favorite places.  It was a lovely night.  Then, on Saturday, I went with another friend to the Dixon to see all the fall colors bursting on the trees.  We went and voted after that- by the way, GO VOTE!!!!! I do not care which candidate you vote for, but you better vote.  Too many people have suffered in too many ways for us to have the privilege of voting, so don't waste it.

Afterwards, I rested and then went to see "The Perks of Being a Wallflower" with yet another friend that night.  That movie was so good!  I laughed, I cried, I was totally floored at the end.  I could not get out of my chair for almost five minutes, I was just processing the whole, wonderful movie.  Definitely recommend.

Ok, time to rest up before the week begins :)

10/15- It's close to midnight, something evil's lurking in the dark

Weight Loss for This Week- .5lbs

Sorry for the day delay with this week's post!  I was out of town visiting one of my best friends :) !!!!!!!

Last week, I finished the first quarter of the year.  I cannot believe that we're already this far along in the year, it's just flying by.  Grades are almost all in, plans for the next units are in place and I'm definitely getting better at the routine of it all :)  As crazy as it gets and as exhausted as I feel sometimes, I'm totally loving it.

Finishing up the first quarter was nice, getting to visit MK in Ft. Worth was even nicer.  I have not had a chance to visit yet since she moved there after marrying Ray.  I had so much fun visiting with them, meeting some of their friends and seeing the sights.  We went to the Zodiac Room, Four Day Weekend, the Botanic Gardens, the Kimbell Museum and more restaurants and bars than I can remember.

We went to Four Day Weekend, a comedy club and it was soooooo funny!  We got to write one-line and one word and they used all our lines! Ray's was a love song entitled "Oh Yeah, Just Keep Scratching It."  And then, after intermission, they picked my comment about teaching high school English which meant I won two tickets! And they used my line and MK's line during the skit, which was hysterical.  I introduced them to the word trifflin' and to urbandictionary.com.   Oh, it was so funny, I wish we had taped it!

The Gardens were gorgeous, I took oh so many pictures.  The Museum was so cool and had some really great pieces of artwork. I enjoyed getting to walk around and take in all the beauty.

The restaurants were all very good, such tasty food!  And Saturday night, we went to this really cool bar on a rooftop.  It was very unique.  We had fun people-watching and talking about all sorts of different topics.

The trip was great, it was exactly what I needed.  I cannot wait to visit again :)  And I was glad that I was aware of what I was eating and how much we were walking.  I was proud to stay on track and lose weight again while on a trip. 

Tips for the week: Drink lots of water each day and make sure to find time for some exercise each week :)

Now to make sure everything really is prepared for tomorrow.

10/7- He opened the lid and shook his fist and said, "Whatever happened to my Transylvania Twist?"

Weight Loss for the Week: 0lbs

Ok, I'm imagining the excessive eating and drinking from Friday and Saturday had a lot to do with this.  I knew it might happen and, well, it did.  I did pretty well for the week, not going past my Dailies and getting in some good exercise- lots of good planning for both there.  But, Friday and Saturday I just went to town- ate too many fatty foods, exercised a little but nowhere near enough to counteract it all. 

I suppose I'm lucky I didn't gain, but I'm just pissed I didn't lose.  It means I need to be that much more aware of the weekends and remembering that "a little dab will do you"- as my late Pepaw always said.

Otherwise, this was a good week.  It's almost the end of the quarter, so I've been giving and grading tests non-stop and it's almost time for my students to finish up outside reading reports and all that jazz.  That's about how the rest of the week will go too, and then I will export the grades and head to Texas to see a good friend of mine :)

I am so excited for a mini-vacation! I am excited to see her and her husband and to go explore a new city.  I think it will be a good way to rest and relax before beginning the next quarter and the holiday season. 

Ok, time to finish all that grading I've been talking about. Enjoy the rest of your Sundays!!!

9/30- Hear my words that I might teach you. Take my arms that I might reach you.

Weight Loss for the Week: 1lb

Yay! More than half a pound!!!  Aside from indulging in a few too many pumpkin goodies this weekend, I was pretty good and stayed on track with my points, etc. this week.  I planned ahead with breakfast, lunch and dinner and worked out a few times during the week.  And it paid off, I am almost at the 60lb mark and that is so exciting, I just can't stand it.

I bought two new pairs of jeans this weekend since my other two pairs were literally falling off of me.  I shrank them, had them hemmed, etc. but they were just too baggy and it was time to admit I needed new jeans.  It was a weird experience, I must say.  I've gone down about three sizes and the jeans I was trying on seemed far too small before trying them on.  Lo and behold, they fit and looked good.  It was such a validating moment.  I mean, I'm not sure people who have not experienced significant weight gain or weight loss would understand how it feels.  My old jeans are very large and stretched out and my new jeans looked like they were half the size (they're not, but that's how it felt) so I was honestly surprised they fit.  I have been wearing them ever since :)  And I'm excited to wear them to school tomorrow for the first jeans day of the year.  Then, I'll get them hemmed sometime soon since I'm short and almost never find anything petite.

The week was otherwise pretty good, school was fine, got to have dinner with a few friends and decorated my classrooms for Halloween this morning :)  I am so stoked for fall. I love the weather, the holidays, all the pumpkin-flavored goodies, etc.! And I'm already thinking of how I will carve my pumpkin this year.  More on that later. 

Tips for the week: Stick to food goals, especially during the week.  Make time for exercise. 

Now, time to unwind and do a little pleasure reading before bed.

9/23- All we ask of you is a lifetime of service, wisdom, courage. To ask more would be selfish, but nothing less will do.

Weight Loss for This Week: .5lbs

Ugh, I would so love to write more than .5lbs these days, but I know that weight loss, even if small, is better than no weight loss at all.  So, for the moment, I'll be okay with it.  But I am so working on losing more next week.

This week was so much better than last week.  School is going well, the students, though somewhat crazy, have been pretty good and sweet this week.  One of my classes was observed this week and my students made a point to be on their best behavior- they listened attentively, participated so well and didn't fight me when I announced a quiz.  It was so sweet.  I mean, they are normally pretty well-behaved, but can go off topic easily.  And they tend to hate quizzes.  So the fact that they made the effort to not moan and groan the quiz and to stay completely on topic meant quite a bit to me.

We had our second flag football game this week (did I mention I'm coaching flag football for my House?) and though we lost, we did better than last week. And the kids had a much better attitude about it so I was still happy with how everything turned out :)

Friday night, I went to trivia night with my mom and some folks and we totally rocked it- we got 81 out of 100 right! The winning team got 88 right, so we were close behind.  I love trivia nights.  I especially love that Lucille Ball and Jane Russell featured at this past one.

I enjoyed a few brunches this weekend (which probably added to the not-so-high weight loss) with family and a good friend.  I must say, sitting outside enjoying coffee or what have you in this fresh, fall weather just makes me so incredibly happy.  Oh, I could just burst!  I hope y'all are all able to enjoy the weather as well!

Well, that's all for this week.  Remember, stay active- it's getting to be cooler, so exercising outdoors is not only bearable now, but so enjoyable!

Now, off to upload photos for the grandmother!

September 16- Woke Up, Got Out of Bed, Dragged a Comb Across My Head

Weight Loss for This Week: 0lbs

This week was... long.  Everything and everyone seemed to be stretched past the breaking point and I am extremely glad the week is over.  That's really all I wish to say about it. It's over, we're moving on and not going to dwell on the negatives. I have enjoyed having the weekend to recover and recuperate and am ever hopeful that the week ahead will be better. 

Obviously, I did not handle the stress well or else I would have lost some weight this past week.  On the other hand, I didn't gain, so that's something.  I attempted to plan ahead and for the most part stuck with my plans.  I did not work out as much as I wanted to, or clearly should have given my stress level last week.

But the week ended on a better note.  I was able to donate blood for the first time in my life, and I did not suffer any real side effects from it. In fact, I was able to go right back to teaching five minutes after I donated and was still able to coach my flag football team right after school ended.  My team is crazy. I love them, but they are crazy.

Yesterday, I got to engage with my inner nerd during Downtown Museum Day and had a blast.  I went to the Fire Museum, Sun Studios, the Cotton Museum and The Underground Railroad/Slave Haven Museum.  It was so much fun! I got to slide down a fire pole, pretend to be in a burning building, stand where Elvis, Johnny Cash, Rufus Thomas, etc. have stood and rock out, hauled some cotton, and found out that I would have just flipped out from the dark, confined spaces had I been a slave.  I love things like that. I hope everyone takes advantage of such things :)  It's good to get your geek on.

Ok, time to hit the hay and rest up before the next week begins!

September 8- With Each Step I Am More Certain, Everything Will Turn Out Fine, I Have Confidence the World Will All Be Mine

Weight Loss for the Week: .5lbs

This week felt so short and so long and so crazy all at the same time, my goodness!

It was a four-day week, which was definitely nice since it meant we got a three-day weekend.  But I felt like I had to cram so much stuff into those days to keep my students on track.  I swear, I confused a few of the classes with their assignments a couple of times and the kids gave me the oddest looks until they realized my head was in another period. 

But it all turned out fine, they all did the right work and got the right assignments, so, we're good.

I also had a flag football coaches meeting- that's right, you read correctly.  I am my house's flag football coach.  I sincerely hope it's about the way it was in college or else I'm not going to be on the ball with what I tell the kids.   I think it should be pretty fun for the most part.  We have the first game this Friday, eep!

My weekend was so nice, very relaxing.  I got to spend each night with friends, hanging out, going out, etc.  And my mom and I had a nice brunch in Midtown yesterday.  This fall weather just makes me so happy.  If only it wouldn't get hot again as the Weather channel is predicting.  Come on, Fall, don't go away so soon.  Stay until, oh, say... November, then you can head out... Pretty please with cherries on top???

Ok, now for the WW portion of the post.  I actually did plan ahead.  But, I did not stick to it all the time.  I didn't eat in excess or anything like that.  I just kept forgetting to eat breakfast, or a snack, and a few times I forgot lunch. This meant I was starving by the end of the day and ate all my points at once.  Such a bad idea, I have to say.  Yesterday, I read an article about how many women end up skipping meals, primarily breakfast, and this leads to weight gain over time.  So, I am going to make myself get back in the habit of eating breakfast.  And snacks. And lunch. 

I am getting back into my exercise routine, which was very nice and helped reduce stress during the week :)

Tips for the week: EAT BREAKFAST!!!!!

Now to finish the last of this week's grading!

September 2- One More Taste of Freedom, One More Longing Backward Glance

Weight Loss for This Week- 2lbs

I did a lot better with planning ahead for my meals.  And I am getting back into my activity. 

That helps add less stress to my week for sure.  School is getting well under way- in fact, this weekend I have been planning tests for most of my classes which means units are coming to an end and new ones will soon begin.  I have to admit, it feels crazy and cool to be doing this again.  I love it.  Yes, it is time-consuming, but I wouldn't trade it for anything else.  That's how I know I'm doing what I'm supposed to be doing.  And that's an amazing feeling. 

This weekend has been fine, though it had a rocky start.  My car's battery died at a gas station. In the heat. In five o'clock traffic.  I was not a happy camper.  Thankfully, AAA and my brother came to the rescue, as they always do.  Now, I have a new battery and my car starts like new again. 

Then, I went over to my friend's place for dinner and a fun evening with her parents and their friends.  It's nice to get to that stage in life where we're growing up and can actually start to appreciate the wisdom they give us.  They had plenty of advice about following our dreams and figuring out what we want from life for ourselves instead of worrying about finding a man and disappearing into his dreams. It's a good reminder.  And definitely a way to keep from regressing and going back to any ex I've labelled as a jerk or too crazy to ever want to deal with again. No sense in reliving such hells, just got to keep moving forward and know that I am where I am supposed to be.

Yesterday was 901 day here in Memphis.  My mom and I went to the Botanical Gardens, Chucalissa and the Southern Heritage Music Festival downtown.  It was so much fun!  And I got a cute pair of earrings from a woman who happens to be the mother of one of my current students.  Memphis is such a big small town, I kind of love it.

A few friends and I were going to go out last night, but the aftermath of Hurricane Isaac proved to be too insane so we've rescheduled our outing for tonight. Yay for a three-day weekend!!!

Now, time to finish getting ready to go see Fiddler on the Roof in about an hour!

August 26- I Wake Up Every Evening with a Big Smile on My Face and It Never Feels Out of Place

Weight Loss for This Week- .5lbs

This past week was the first full week of school.  It was crazy and wonderful and I actually managed to stay on top of things.  I know it's going to take some time to get totally used to the schedule, etc. but I think it's doable :)

For the most part, the students are good and eager enough to learn.  They're also still getting used to being back in school so hopefully some of the resistance to things like quizzes and being expected to participate or write notes will lessen as the year progresses. 

We had Parents Night this week too. That was the longest day.  I was at the school around 13 hours and had to break my no-caffiene-during-the-week rule to make sure I didn't fall asleep, lol.  The parents were pretty nice and supportive, so that's good.

I had my breakfasts, lunches and dinners planned for the whole week which really helped and kept me on track with my points.  However, going out and celebrating Friday night and Saturday night did not help.  I did not go past my weekly points or anything like that, but I still binged too much.  I actually got so full both nights I could not finished what I had ordered.  It's a crazy feeling for someone like to me to realize that even when I splurge, I can't have that much.

I did not do as much activity this week as I normally do.  I'm going to need to work on making myself either get up earlier a few times a week or making myself go for a walk once I get home. Or both really.  I think as I get more used to my schedule and get into the routine of it all, just planning certain times for exercise will become habit again as well. 

Ok, time to finish the last few prep items for the week!

August 19, 2012- So If You're Too School for Cool and You're Treated Like a Fool, You Can Choose to Let It Go

Weight Loss for This Week: 3.5lbs

A picture of me on my first day of teaching :)


This past week was a total whirlwind. It was my first week teaching at my new school.  I was anxious and excited and worried that I would forget what I was supposed to be teaching half the time.

Overall, it was pretty good.  Learning is underway in each of my classes and I feel like we'll have a pretty good year.  I'm still working on getting the schedule memorized and getting my rhythm down so that I'm not either finishing with an extra seven minutes or not finishing the last task of the day before the bell rings.  I know that takes time and I will get there.  It's a matter of not getting too overwhelmed by everything and remembering to take it all one day and one step at a time.

I'm getting my teaching legs back. I forgot what it was like to stand up almost all day and walk around the room for so long.  It gets a bit better each day, but when I finally get to sit down after the school day, I don't want to get back up again for awhile, lol.

I did better with planning my meals ahead of time and sticking to my daily points.  And now I know that either on Saturdays or Sundays I need to make sure I have my lunches for the work week made and my breakfasts at the ready, I feel like that will be better than this past month off where I didn't have to think that far ahead.

I resisted the urge to have caffeine this week as well, which was no easy feat let me tell you.  I wanted coffee each morning and a Coke Zero each afternoon. I made myself drink water instead and then got to have my caffeine this weekend as is my goal.  I know that diet sodas don't have calories or carbs, so they don't directly cause weight gain. They do, however, cause the body to crave sweets which does cause weight gain. And they can cause additional bloating- which is definitely no fun. So, they remain a weekend only treat for me :)

Okay, tips for the week: Planning ahead and sticking to daily food goals, especially during the work week, is essential for creating a healthy lifestyle.  And staying on your feet nonstop is a good way to burn the calories :)

Now, to do some grading and prepping for the week!

August 12- Now Here We Stand Unafraid of the Future

Weight Loss for This Week: .5lbs

Ok, I weighed in Wednesday morning just to check and my weight loss would have been 1.5lbs this week, but I went out and had a bit too much rich food, etc. Thursday night and Friday night. I may have been able to lose more if I also hadn't gone out six, yes, six, times this week.  My bank account might be in better shape as well. Live and learn.

A good friend of mine was in town this past week, which led to a few of the outings.  We had a great time when we went out, but I did not watch my points as well as I should have.  I did plan ahead and determine what I should eat, etc.  I did not stick to it each time though.  My self-control apparently needs a bit more strengthening.  I'm usually better with it, but this week was also my last week before school starts so I know that played into splurging too much and too often.  It's no excuse, but it's the truth.

I realized by Tuesday what I was doing was going to potentially cause weight gain, so I attempted to counter it with extra exercises. I have to say, I LOVE having my own elliptical.  The weather gets so hot here in the summer which means walking around the neighborhood becomes less and less desirable.  Staying inside with the air conditioning while busting it out on the elliptical is a wonderful option for those kind of days.  I focused on doing intervals since I know they help increase metabolism and worked on pushing myself to do an extra five to ten minutes each time.  It must have worked because I did not end up gaining and was still able to lose a little weight.

So, tips from this week- use self-control when going out to eat and do intervals on the elliptical to increase metabolism.

I am looking forward to getting back to a routine this week.  While time off is always appreciated, I know I do better in terms of staying focused when I have a regular schedule.  It forces me to plan ahead on a weekly basis and to figure out when I get to exercise.  And being on my feet teaching all day is better than being as sedentary as I have been this past month. I have spent so much time prepping at my computer that I have to force myself to walk away from it at times.

Speaking of preparing for school, my classrooms are almost completely ready for the year to start! And they look pretty nice (not to be biased, lol!)  I have my schedule for all my periods. I'm getting everything in order for the first week, etc. And I'm finishing setting up a basic organizational system to help me stay on track throughout the year. Fingers crossed it all goes well!

Oh, a friend of mine is also doing a weight loss blog and I wanted to share with y'all.  She is not doing WW, she tried and it just did not work for her. Since I know that no one thing works for everyone, I wanted to share her blog so she can share her story and what is working for her. http://shepaleo.wordpress.com/

Now, to finish a few more items tonight!

August 5- I Turn My East, I Don't See Nobody By My Side, I Turn My Head to the West, Still Nobody in Sight, So I Turn My Head to the North, Swallow that Pill that They Call Pride, That Old Me's Dead and Gone But the New Me'll Be Alright

Weight Loss for the Week: 2lbs

That's right, I have officially lost 50+ lbs now!!!

I can't even describe how good it feels to say that.

I have been getting busy these days.  I'm in a more intense prep mode for school now- only 9 days until I start teaching! It's getting so real- I'm so excited/nervous/anxious/ecstatic/worried/prepared.  I want to meet my students and get to the lessons and pray that I'm doing what I should be and that they learn what they need to do well. 

Since some of that prep involved going into my rooms (my main room for my five high school classes and my other room that I share for my one middle school class) and physically cleaning, organizing and setting up, I got some much needed new activity added to my regular routine.  There's still some work left to do, but I've definitely made some good progress and have even been dreaming about setting up my room or having other people change my room. 

I also tried out two new recipes this week.  The first was a pizza recipe that I created.  I've been craving pizza so much lately it's not even funny.  I know I can eat it and manipulate other meals to be fine with the points but I felt that there must be some way to have a slice of pizza that is both filling and not 9 points.  So, I used the Recipe Builder- a new BFF from WW- to see what I could do.  I used a pre-made crust, a little tomato sauce, tomato slices, steamed spinach, part-skim mozzarella, feta, artichoke hearts, onion and bell pepper to create this delicious five-vegetable pizza. It was so good and so filling- I cut it up into 6 slices at 5 points apiece.  I ate 2 slices per meal.  I could have easily done one slice and a side salad but I didn't have salad ingredients. 

I also found a recipe for Skinny Cajun Chicken Penne on Pinterest that I tweaked a bit because I didn't like all of the ingredients.  And after plugging in my version on the Recipe Builder it went from being 12 points with the original recipe to 8 points with my tweaked recipe.   It is also beyond delicious and incredibly filling.  And it has earned the approval of a foodie friend and the interest of even my brother who almost never wants to try new dishes.  So, I think it will have to be my contribution to the next family meal.

Finally, I have been asked this question five or six times this week- what is my ultimate goal weight?  This is my answer.  I have looked up what the weight range for my height is- 126lbs to 141 lbs.  Knowing this, I want to get down to about 150lbs and then go in to see my doctor and talk with him about where I should fall in that range- the bottom, the middle or the top- and from there I will know what my ultimate goal weight should be and work from there.  My doctor is aware that I am on WW but I do not go in to see him unless I have an illness, etc.  And thanks to my septoplasty and likely my weight loss, I have not had to go in to the doctor since February.  I kind of want to just so they can see how much weight I've lost, lol.

Oh, a few people mentioned trying to leave comments and being unable to do so- I have updated the settings on this blog and it should work now. So, if you feel the urge to comment, go ahead :)

Now, to go check out the Stax Museum!

July 29- Got Half a Mind to Spend My Whole Paycheck on One of Those Dresses, Those Strapless Black Ones That Are So Famous For Teaching Lessons

Weight Loss for This Week: .5lbs

Liz and I had so much fun in Hot Springs :) We went on a Duck Tour, sweated way too much and tried the Quapaw Baths. The Duck Tour was pretty funny and our guide was pretty funny. We sat up front in the "hot seats" and became known as "California" and "Camera Girl." Anyone who knows me in the least, knows that "Camera Girl" was easily earned and well-deserved, lol.

My birthday was very nice- it started with some time in the Baths. We were so relaxed, it was the perfect way to start the day. Then, we came back to Memphis and had dinner with the family at Cheffie's- their salads are beyond delicious, just sayin'. And later in the night, while we were continuing our weekend-long gabfest, Liz showed me how to add pictures to my blog and how to personalize it. Thanks again, Lizzy!!!

After Liz left, I spent the next day resting because I have to admit I was tired. I had a blast seeing her and catching up and all. And then, I needed some time to rest and recuperate before getting back to the major task at hand- prepping for the school year. I'm almost done with my first unit plans for each class which is nice. Next, I will work on expectation sheets, syllabi, proficiency tests, handouts, etc. Plenty to do and all, but I am confident I can handle it. Especially since the people at my new school have been incredibly helpful.

I exercised a normal amount this week and added leg exercises. I even did a 5.1 mile walk yesterday (my legs are still a bit sore today). Where I did not do well this week was my eating. I stayed within my point limits most days but I was not eating as healthy as I normally do. I did not make sure to have ruffage each day and was not drinking as much water as I normally do. Also, I went out a few times and splurged each and every time. Quite frankly, I'm lucky I didn't gain.

I know these weeks will happen because I'm human and I'm going to have times where I don't always do as well as I know I should. But, like my mom says, the great thing about Weight Watchers is that you start fresh each week. So, last week may not have been great but it will not define this week and will not define my long-term goal of changing my lifestyle and habits.

Now, time to go see Beasts of the Southern Wild!!!