Fight the FAT - Brad's Blog

A New Day???

2011-11-02T12:34:00.002-05:00

Today I start the battle yet again, I guess it’s good to keep trying although the continual failures drive me CRAZY. 382 this morning, once again up, way up and I really feel it as well. The older you get the harder it is to carry an “extra man” around on your back all the time. I am TIRED, so TIRED all the time, and there is no relief in site unless I get off my ass and make a change. The first 40-60 pounds are always relatively easy, I’ve got to figure out how to make it over the hump once I get there again. I feel as though I am a broken record, time and time again with the same results… The ideal definition of insanity is ME when it comes to weight loss. I try to motivate others I see struggling with health and weight as well but what kind of motivation can I give them if I don’t walk the walk. I can’t be talking the talk unless I walk the walk… I guess it’s time walk the walk again…

God Bless and FTF - B

It's Time - Again

2011-10-27T16:03:00.000-05:00

Moving back to this blog in hopes that it will help keep me accountable. I am on this constant up and down mary-go-round and I am sick of it... Prepping for a NOVEMBER 1st start to the new and healthy ME... I've done this time after time, I swear I've lost the same 50 pounds 20 times - Enough is enough, stay tuned for more to come...

Moving

2011-01-06T10:04:00.003-06:00

Consolidating all blogs and moving them to http://brad-clements.blogspot.com/

Hope to see you there...

Bad Blogger - Bad Dieter - Bad all around

2010-09-02T09:46:00.002-05:00

Like Arnold says - I'LL BE BAAAAAACK - Very soon - Hope you're all doing better with your weight loss that I have done lately - Back in the saddle starting on Wednesday September 8th...

2nd Week Down

2010-04-21T13:42:00.000-05:00

I gained a pound this week, not at all worried cause I did have a pretty good week none the less. I blame it mostly on Tuesday night before the weigh in. We are in the planning stages of our 25th high school reunion and we had a meeting, a few drinks we had, some bad food was eaten and all on the eve of weighing in... It was just timing I believe and look for something pretty good this week... Stay tuned...

KTF and FTF

B

Loser Part Two - One week down...

2010-04-14T13:02:00.000-05:00

Maybe I've found my groove, maybe I've turned a corner, my mind set seems more determined than ever and a good start is always motivational. 10.4 pound loss this week and honestly I wasnt surprised, I tried really hard, got some good exercise and really only had 2 bad diet moments, 5 or 6 drinks last Friday and too much for supper last Saturday. I got some exercise, on the bike outside on three different occasions and held fast to the idea that its okay to be a little hungry sometimes... 10.4 pounds comes out to 2.93%, the funny thing is I didnt even win the week for the loser contest, second. First place was 3.8%. I informed my wife of how I did and her response, "Thats great, you beat Michael and Koli this week." That was nice and very touching as well as very motivational as well.

I've taken to tracking my calories VERY well and averaged 1850 calories per day intake in the last week, my water intake was better than it has been and soda has basically been elimated from my diet, maybe two cans in the last week... We'll see...

I have to say I will not be hapy this next week unless I "PROVE" this week wasnt a fluke. My goal is another 10 pounds, seems insane but when you are as big as I am its VERY doable. I know that cant be my goal all the time and have enought sense to realize and understand how this works BUT it gives me something to shoot for this week and something that will not come easy...

I've taken up a new motto when it comes to diet and exercise.... "STIFF UPPER LIP" - Keep that stiff upper lip, even when it seems imposible, even when you don't feel like sticking to the plan, even when there are distractions and excuses... Keep it and keep with it, I deserve it...

Enough rambling for now...

Keep the Faith and Fight the FAT...

"SUL" - B

The Finale - Finishing Very Poorly

2010-04-06T09:43:00.000-05:00

Not dwelling on it but I gained 8 pounds durning the last week of our contest - My body was screwed up and two days after the last weigh in those 8 pounds had dissappeared, I dunno, I wasnt happy and actually I was pretty pissed off, we'll leave it at that ...

NOW - the next contest starts tomorrow - I will make this VERY hard for anyone else to win this but me...

Stay Tuned...

FTF and Keep the Faith

BL - Week 11

2010-03-25T13:35:00.001-05:00

Well as frustrating as it can be at times I've made some progress. Another 2.8 pounds loss this week gives me 9.6 in the last two weeks, I'll take it... That puts me at almost 25 for our contest and I'll take that too, I guess the main thing is to keep working at it. ONLY two workouts this last week... I need to be patient but I'd like to make it under 340 by the next weigh in... That would be 27 plus for the contest... Decent, not quite what I wanted but again I'll take it...

FTF and KTF - Bc

Please SHARE this anywhere you can...

2010-03-18T12:04:00.002-05:00

BL - Week 10

2010-03-18T11:02:00.000-05:00

OKAY, so I've proven to myself that I can do it and all it takes is to STOP being lazy and let NO excuses stand in your way. I know it, and have always known it and have been there done that got the T-shirt BUT making it stick is the key....

SO - 6.8 pound loss this last week puts me over 20 for the contest and with 2 weeks left and the new goal is 30 lbs but I'd take 32 or 33 - Yahoo, we're on a roll... If 4 Trips to the gym with 4 sessions or hard cardio and 2 sessions of weight lifting and a good balanced diet will get you 6.8 pounds then thats jus the goal I'll have to keep doing each and every week... PLUS, getting my BUTT ready for outside biking is an added benefit, it is just around the corner.... Taco Ride anyone....

Keep the Faith and Fight the FAT - BC

Psycotherapy Anyone (Weeks 7,8 and 9)

2010-03-10T09:23:00.000-06:00

OKAY, OKAY - Its harder to blog when you have been unsuccessful, generally when someone is quiet they have not met their own expectations and this is the case right now... Up until and including week 6 I had not posted a gain, well, the last three weeks were ALL gains, this is not going as I expected or anticipated. NOW, with that being said I only gained 2 pounds over those three weeks. My total lost to date is only 13.6 pounds or 3.75% of my body weight, the leaders are at or over 10% so I wont be winning this contest BUT that wont stop me from putting up a good fight over the next three weeks and beyond.

The POSITIVES: This last monday I came in and weighed in and was UP 8.4 pounds since last weeks weigh in, I ended up only gaining .4 pounds for the week... So, thats a positive...

I don't know what gets into me sometimes, when I go off the plan I REALLY go off the plan, it was ALL weekend long, too many drinks, too much TACO BELL drive through and too much BURGER KING, it was ugly, like a spoiled child ugly...

Now, before you said "its okay, you've done pretty good, two pounds isn't that bad" I have to say its not really the 2 pounds that is getting me its my total disreguard for my health and my physical being that I have from time to time that REALLY bothers me...

Maybe secretly I LIKE being big, maybe my subconscience is out to sabatoge me, maybe I like standing out in a crowd I dunno but there is probably more to this than meets the eye. Maybe I need PSYCO therapy or ELECTRIC shock treatment, or maybe I just need to grow up and get my head out of my ass...

Hope your journey is all you want it to be...

KEEP THE FAITH and FIGHT THE FAT - BC

BL - Week 6

2010-02-22T12:23:00.000-06:00

Sorry I havent made it back since Wednesday - I made a 1.2 pound loss last week but only ended up paying out to TWO people in the contest... It WAS NOT a banner week for our group as between the 17 of us we only lost 2.6 pounds - My idea of motivating the group didnt work well at all. SO its off to motivate myself... We'll see how this week goes, only two days until weigh in and I havent posted a GAIN yet....

Hey 1.5 pounds a week is 78 lbs in a YEAR - I'd take it BUT I'd really like to make a push at winning this contest, got my work cut out for me... Oh yea, and my 1.2 pound loss included 4 trips to the gym in which I left TOTALLY spent each time.... Maybe there is something in the air or maybe its just the week 6 curse, really everyone had trouble...

Wish me luck, I may really need it this week....

Biggest Loser - Week 5

2010-02-11T08:50:00.000-06:00

1.6 pounds down for this week... I have to remember that its a WIN but at this rate I wont be winning any contests so I need to step it up a bit...

After all were weighted in this week I put out a challenge to the group. $5 wager on better percentage this next week and almost everyone hopped all over that SO I have my work cut out for me this week so no time to write here anymore have to get back to the gym... :-)

Biggest Loser - Week 4

2010-02-05T16:09:00.000-06:00

I did manage a 1.8 lb loss this past week which was okay considering the weekend I had on our boys fishing trip. LOTS of drinks and LOTS of food, with that being said it has definately been worse in the past. Thats 4 weeks in a row with a loss and a total of 13 lbs so far. I'd really like to improve on my losses this next week and plan to incorporate more gym time. Nutrition I can balance for the most part but GYM time is my downfall.

The only excuse I can come up with is being a bit LAZY. I have MANY optins at my fingertips. A. A gym at our office that has weights and several cardio opportuities. B. A nice set up in my basement including a recumgant bike, an eliptical type machine and dumbells from 5 lbs to 50 lbs along with several different exercise videos and the Biggest Loser game on the WII. And C. A family membership to Urban Active which is about a half mile from my house.... SO, my MENTAL game is struggling a bit when it comes to the GYM.....

ONE thing I do truely miss is all the outdoor bike riding we did last summer, I can't wait for the weather to break so I can get back to that hard and heavy...

Just GOTTA figure out the GYM/Workout thing, gotta wrap my mind around the fact that there is not other way to be truely successful in this battle until I can make that happen. I wish the switch would flip on for me and I wish it was a habbit that was as easy to form as smoking, I'd be the king then... ANYHOW...

Keep the Faith and keep FIGHTING THE FAT...

BC

Biggest Loser - Week 3

2010-01-28T11:19:00.000-06:00

I squeeked out a 2 lb loss this past week and that gives me 11.2 in three weeks. A couple of folks did REAL well this week and I dropped to 5th or 6th place.

NOW, I am about to head out on our biannual BOYS fishing trip, or at least thats what we call it. 10 GREAT friends from the TKE House at college, we've been close for a LONG time and its always a WONDERFUL time when we make the time to get together like this. We'll be in the middle of the sandhills of Nebraska about 4 hours west of Omaha in the wonderful town of Taylor Nebraska (population 176)... :-)

I've got to be somewhat good and keep my wits about myself diet wise and nutrition wise. There will be some drinking going on and a LOT of opportunity for unhealthy eating. I will hit the grocery store on the way out of town this afternoon and pick up specific healthy stuff for me so if my willpower is unwavering everything will be okay, If NOT, I need your prayers.... :-) Wish me luck...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT the FAT...

BC

Biggest Loser - Week Two

2010-01-21T11:29:00.000-06:00

Well, it was a decent week with a 3.4 lb loss, my nutrition was real good for 5.5 days out of the seven and the other 1.5 days it wasnt horrible, I'll take it. I did not make the gym this past week or I would have had a couple more pounds loss this week. I finished 6th in our group and a couple of folks did gain and had to pay into the pot. Between finishing 6th this week and 7th last week I have found myself tied for secont with a 9.2 lb loss over the course of the first two weeks. 2.5% is where that ends up being.

One of the thing that REALLY helps me with my nutrition is to track EVERYTHING that goes into my body and limit myself to a specific average number of calories over the course of the week. On days that I do work out I do allow a few more calories because afterall you have to feed that engine. 2100 calories a day is my current goal for each week right now, I'll adjust as I lose more weight but that seems to be the right number to allow weight loss for me personally. NOW with that being said you CAN lose weight by eating 2100 calories of McDonalds or Burger King each day but for OBVIOUS reasons thats not the right path. Good healthy food in SURE makes a difference in my energy level and motivation. We'll keep after it...

My plan this week is to remain consistent with my nutrition and make myself get some exercise in at least 3 different times before our next weigh in. Looking for 6 pounds, wish me luck...

Keep the Faith and continue to Fight the FAT...

BC

Biggest Loser - Week One

2010-01-14T09:13:00.000-06:00

Unfortunately I wasn't the biggest loser for week one of our contest BUT that doesn't mean I didn't have a pretty good week. 5.8 pound loss last week (which tied for second most pounds lost in our contest) or 1.58% body weight, not a HUGE number but I will take it all things considered. I only worked out twice last week as I was sick a couple of days, my nutrition was pretty good but could have been better. All in all a pretty decent start and finally headed back in the right direction. Busting it HARD this week and want to pull double digits, we'll see where that gets me.

We have 18 solid people in the contest and nobody had to pay in this week so that really is a good deal. Combined our group lost 49.6 pounds last week taking us from 4001 combined pounds to start to 3951.4 pounds as a whole. Our overall percentage lost was 1.26%.

Like I say, I am not as concerned about winning as I am concerned about getting the weight off and this kind of competition is just what my personality needs to help make it happen....

Starting Weight 367.6
Current Weight 361.8

Keep the Faith and continue to FIGHT THE FAT...

BC

HAHAHAHA - Temptation

2010-01-08T13:41:00.000-06:00

Thought you all would get a kick out of this... Mental WARFARE has begun on our biggest loser contest at work... Truth is - this note is probably correct, their profits have had to gone down the last couple of days...

FTF - BC

Its ON like DONKEY KONG

2010-01-07T10:52:00.001-06:00

The fight has begun again and motivation is high...

We put together a 12 week biggest loser competition at the office and 19 people signed up to take part. Thats 19 people who want to work toward bettering their health and becoming more fit... TOTALLY AWESOME... Everyone puts $10 in the pot and each week at weigh in you owe a pound for EACH and EVERY pound you may have gained. March 31st is the final weigh in for round one. I plan to kick some serious butt... Actually in all reality even if this contest wasnt going on I would still be planning to kick some serious butt with myself. My biggest thrill in all of this is that there are 19 people committed to working out and eating right, I'd actually LOVE to finish last cause that will mean ALL 19 of these co-workers did a GREAT job...

367.6 was my weight at the weigh in, not proud to have gained back all that weight but very excited about getting back on track. Sometime during this year I need to figure out how to get the mentality, and ability to keep the weight off. Working out and eating right needs to become a habbit and I am not there yet but will continue to try... I hope to get there soon...

Thats it for now...

Keep the Faith and continue to Fight the FAT...

BC

PS: Here is a link to our blog for this contest... Biggest Loser

PPS: I did make the gym yesterday for the first time in several months, two sets of weigh lifting across the big 6 muscles and 15 minutes of cardio on the bike... Its a start...

I have been REMISS...

2010-01-04T12:58:00.000-06:00

I have been remiss in my blogging as of late and in my healthy lifestyle. We'll thats about to change. We're starting a Biggest Loser contest at the office on Wednesday and I plan to blog each Wednesday moving forward in conjunction with that. Its not really about even trying to win the competition, its more about focus and getting back on track.... Really tired of the ups and downs and ups and downs and ups and downs so trying to make this a lifestyle change, losing the weight isnt the hardest thing in the world its keeping it off and not falling back into bad habbits.

We'll officially weigh in Wednesday but at 361 this morning (in the buff) means I've neither lost or gained any weight in the year 2009, now that can be either a positive or a negative considering I did get some pounds off early in the year and was even in pretty good shape until the later part of the summer, they once again I got lazy....

Anyhow, its time to get this party started again and get back to the grindstone...

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat...

BC

Question for the Day...

2009-11-03T12:20:00.000-06:00

Okay, has anyone heard of HCG or actually has anyone had any first hand experience with it...?

Get Ready, Get Set, Let's Go

2009-10-28T10:11:00.001-05:00

As I get geared up and motivated to finally make a permanant change I have to pass on this article. I have followed Tom Venuto for quite some time and gotten a lot of information from him that has been very helpful. He usually is pretty "spot on" when it comes to diet and nutrition... 351 Today and headed to the GYM today for the first time in 3 months, LETS GET READY TO RUUUUUUUUMBLE...

Enjoy the article and keep FIGHTING THE FAT...

Tom's Latest Article

Tom's blog link can also be found in the Health and Fitness section of this blog...
Keep the Faith and FTF,

Bc
http://www.bradftf.blogspot.com/

Sloppy Mess

2009-10-23T12:55:00.000-05:00

I am a sloppy mess right now, I can't get my simple little mind to wrap itself around becoming healthy... I am giving myself to the end of this month to get ready and get it together. To actually GROW UP mentally and take this VERY seriously. Doc did give me a second blood pressure pill earlier this week, how many kicks in the ass do I need from him.

350 pounds this morning!!!!! UGH, FRUSTRATION, DEPRESSION, PAIN, AGONY.... Maybe I need FAT guy counseling... Dunno but I better get it figured out pretty soon this UP AND DOWN BULLSHIT is hard on my mental capacity.

285 would be Graduation weight and my 25 Year Reunion is 7 Months away, that would be 65LBS. ????? I dunno, I am tired of putting down weight goals only to come CLOSE than end up short...

No Excuses, I am LAZY...

Not Currently FIGHTING THE FAT....

BC

Back in the SADDLE of the NEVER ending battle.

2009-09-22T14:49:00.004-05:00

Sorry I haven't made any entries into this blog lately. Denial is easy and if you don't talk about it it will go away right.... RIIIIIIIGGGGGGGHHHHHHHTTTTTT.

Its a never ending battle and once I get my frail little mind wrapped around that I will have more success.

Well the family workout plan in August didn't do it for me, my motivation lacked and so did the rest of the families. I really kind of slacked in September so far too.

We'll with the new season of the Biggest Loser I am back at it. Last week was the season premier and it was awesome. Anyhow I am weighing in on Wednesday mornings after the show and last week I was at 347.8 so SLACKING I HAVE DONE PLENTY of as of late. Back to the moderation of my diet this week and back to working out more often. We'll see what we can do, I obviously don't anticipate keeping up with some of these folks cause they obviously are working out 4/5 hours a day and are supervised 24 hours a day but I DO want to do better than at least one or two of them every week. You know what, if I could afford to take off work and make it onto that show I would be a MACHINE. Anyhow.... Now you know where I am and where I am headed. We'll see what tomorrow mornings weigh in brings - I anticipate good things...

Keep the Faith and Fight the FAT

BC

By the WAY, I am 42 today, feeling physically 62 and mentanlly 22, so I guess there is some good and some bad... :-)

TEAMwork is a BIG PLUS

2009-08-10T11:59:00.002-05:00

Just to start with this blog is linked with my FACEBOOK account so any updates on here are automatically added as notes on my FACEBOOK, now on with my blogging...

I haven't blogged lately so I'll bring you up to date a bit.

AUGUST is designated CLEMENTS family get in shape kick off month. I found myself at 339.2 on the 3rd of August, slipping back toward beyond obese. August 3rd was our kickoff and I want to tell you that when your family is involved it makes the process SO much better. Valerie found herself where she was on August 3rd. Funny huh, well call that XX out of respect for her.

SO with that being said Valerie is XX minus 6lbs this week and I am 335.6. She lost an AMAZING 6lbs and I sure didn't do my share but none the less did pull out 3.6lbs. I WILL pull more of my share this week. (9.6lbs this week for TEAM CLEMENTS - YAY)

Alyssa, we arn't weighing because we dont want to become "THOSE" parents who obsess about their childrens weight. There are pros and cons to that but we are working with her on making better choices and working out and exercising.

Anyhow, thats what's going on in a nutshell, wish us success and we'll keep.....

Fighting the FAT -

B

Today is the DAY....

2009-07-27T11:32:00.002-05:00

Today is the day to get back on track. At the gym this morning at 5:30 and out onto the bike trails tonight at 6:30. Weighed in at a SVELT 331.6 this morning. I am giving myself an intervention, its time, focus, attention and hard work. I can't let myself get down about this to the point of doing NOTHING. For the last two weeks I haven't rode the bike or done really anything specific to being healthy. Time to start.... The family is involved this time so more to come on that.... Look out 299, here I come....

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat...

Dont want to talk about it...

2009-07-07T17:49:00.002-05:00

My scale said 327 on Monday so I am getting some new batteries for it. There's no way in hell I gained 8 pounds last week. It's discouraging, maybe I'll go to a monthly weigh in.

FTF-B

SLOW PROGRESS

2009-06-29T11:13:00.003-05:00

You know all this riding of bikes make me hungry? I gotta figure out an alternative to filling my face when I get done but also need to have the fuel to burn while riding. MAYBE, I need to go back to the FITDAY tracker and start tracking my calories again, I ALWAYS am most successful when I am doing that. Gotta breat through this point, just gotta.

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

Low Point for the YEAR

2009-06-15T09:53:00.002-05:00

-3.2 pounds this last week. It feels good to be at my low point for the year, lets see what we can do to bust through this "area" where I've spent a LOT of my adult life. Another 60 plus miles on the bike should help.

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat - BC

Down ONE more

2009-06-10T15:42:00.002-05:00

I made a one pound loss last week. It is what it is, I also went over 200 miles biked and its definately gotten a lot easier. I am a biking machine now, well okay maybe not a machine but the miles are much easier to get in now. My lower body is developing and getting much stronger so I guarantee I have lost body fat even if the scale hasn't shown it of late. Muscle does weigh more than fat I there is no doubt I have put on a few pounds of muscle since I started riding consistently. That will increase my body's fat burning and help the process.

I WILL continue to fight the fight, I am resigned to baby steps and know I am pushing through a SET POINT that was where I was at for a LONG period of my life. I think my body likes the 320 Brad, well I DONT so its a matter of the FAT guy winning or not winning.

Can't rest on past accomplishments...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

Well, OKAY

2009-06-01T11:26:00.003-05:00

May was a slight net gain (2.8 pounds) and I wasn't focused BUT, June is another month and I will make progress. We've been doing a LOT of bike riding and plan to continue doing so over the summer. Eric and I kind of have become somewhat addicts so this will no doubt help with our exercise. We put together a club for biking and so far there are THREE of us in the PACK. You can see the link to the left in this blog.

ANYHOW - Trying to speak with my actions more than my words for the month of June. I hope you are all winning your war. May was a battle I barely lost and in June we'll make a recovery. Anybody LOCAL want to ride for exercise, we'll be going several times a week, let me know.

KTF and FTF

Brad

Not Much To Say

2009-05-18T09:55:00.002-05:00

I don't have much to say today - I gained 3.8lbs since the 4th of May - Haven't been real good nutritionally, haven't been real good physically, drank too much a couple of times... I pretty much got out of the last two weeks exactly what I put into them, basically nothing outside of a few bike rides... Doesn't mean I'll quit trying...

FTF, and KTF

Brad

Quick Update - Pain

2009-05-06T14:12:00.001-05:00

We'll we went out for 15 miles on Monday night and I have felt NONE of the pain I was feeling on Sunday so I anticipate smooth sailing from here on out, I made a slight adjustmet to my seat and position on the pedals and all is good...

KTF & FTF - Bc

APRIL - HUMMMMMM

2009-05-04T10:10:00.002-05:00

April was an exact ZERO, no gain, no loss.... Hummmmm, not totally sure how I should feel about that.... Basically I took two weeks off for Rest and RELAXATION and then made the last two weeks of the month count for 7 pounds. I guess I really have nothing to complain about - The vacation was AWESOME and planned and a much needed break from the GRIND, it did more for my mental health than anything you can imagine. LIFE IS GOOD...

Eric busted my ass about getting back on the trail again since summer is fast approaching and I was glad he gave me the boost to get it going again. Did 16 miles on Thursday night and then 24 on Saturday, oh, did I mention I purchased a new bike, one that actually fits me, WOW, that makes trail riding a whole lot more interesting. The last bike really made me work and struggle at times due to it simply being a standard sized mountain bike ( I couldn't get the seat high enough and it always felt like a elephant riding a trike. :-) I bought a new hybrid and the size is perfect for me, I LOVE it. My QUADS were a little sore on Sunday but I plan to go again tonight...

I do have a little something going on in my left hip/pelvis though. Its hard to describe but its a shooting pain where it feels like I lose strength in that joint for a second or two. It is pretty painful but only lasts a couple of seconds. It happened 5 or 6 times over the course of the day on Sunday, it doesn't last long, maybe 2 seconds and then its gone. Haven't felt it when riding and have done some research online to try to figure it out, could be a couple of different things so we'll see how it goes after another couple of rides and a bit of adjusting of the point of my seat. It may just be getting used to being back on the trails but we'll keep an eye on it and let you know. If all goes well we plan to take the Wabash Trail in Council Bluffs on the infamous TACO RUN this Thursday or maybe next Thursday. More to come on that in the next few days.

I am looking for bigger and better things for the month of MAY, our 17th anniversary is next Saturday and I sure plan on celebrating 17 more if not 37 more.... :-)

Until next time I will continue to FTF and KEEP THE FAITH...

A LOSS

2009-04-27T11:28:00.002-05:00

323.2 this morning for a 3 pound loss last week. Here is the kicker I had made almost 6 pounds for the week by Saturday morning. Saturday night I did a little overindlugence with a few Margaritas, Blue Yummy's, some Single Barrel and my buddy JONNIE. ANYHOW, Three pounds for the week is okay by me, no doubt about it. My nutrition was great last week outside of Saturday so that is pretty much back on track, I only worked out once and that was kind of half hearted so all in all it is what it is. NOW, this week I need OVER 4 pounds to avoid a NET GAIN for the month of April. I am feeling motivated to make SURE that happens so stay tuned for more to come.... HELLO GYM, remember me????

Keep the Faith and FTF...
B

Back in the Saddle

2009-04-20T17:33:00.002-05:00

Okay, so maybe a little residual effect from vacation but today the scales told me it likes the expanding numbers and really wants my number higher. 326.2 today and I say PISS on the scale, its back in the saddle time. I've had my vacation now its back to work. Look for good things next week, leaving the office right now, heading to the gym tonight.

April POST Vacation Report

2009-04-15T09:19:00.002-05:00

Well, if you follow my other blog you'll know we had a 10 day excursion to the Masters Golf Tournament, Myrtle Beach, Pinehurst and various other destinations. We ate well, we drank well and really has an AWESOME time. It was a well deserved break from the grind of trying to maintain the healthy lifestyle.

I am happy to report that this morning I stepped on the scale at 322.8 and really was pleased all things considered to only have a small gain on the scale during the last 15 days. Playing catch up this week and getting back into the routine has taken most of my time the last few days, now its time to get back on track. I plan to hit the GYM tomorrow night and once this weekend and then kick it back in hard starting next week.

Although I didn't quite hit my April 1st goal of 310 lbs I believe I can still hit my July 1st goal of 290 if I work real hard and get focused again. Goals aren't supposed to be easy, they are supposed to challenge you and make you work hard to attain them.

We'll see what we can do, I really look forward to getting back into the gym, I am kind of "jonseing" for it right now... That's probably a good thing huh... :-)

KEEP THE FAITH and FIGHT THE FAT... Bc

March 2009 Recap

2009-04-01T16:10:00.002-05:00

You know March was only a 4.2 pound month but in looking at it from a high level, I wont be upset with it. It was a loss, I had one week in there where I really didn't put forth the efforts and GAINED several pounds for the week, even if that week is a break even week that would have made March a 12 pound month and I would have been very happy with that. I have to say my calories are up, my fat content is up and my alcohol consumption is up so its no wonder it wasn't something AWESOME, BUT I wont classify it as a disappointment cause it wasn't.

March Counts
Ave Cal - 2169/day
Ave Fat - 36%
Ave Carb - 37%
Ave Protein - 20%
Alcohol Consumption - 8%
Feb Weight Loss - 4.2lbs.
2009 Weight Loss - 41.2lbs.
2009 Weekly Average - 3.49lbs

I have to say I am at a point I've been MANY times before in my battle. Feeling pretty good, feeling strong, wearing smaller clothes, getting a few compliment and all in all in a GOOD place. Its easy at that point to become distracted as I've done many times before so I am not on GUARD for that to happen. To be honest I enjoy now working out more than I have in the last 20 years and wont let that end. I really want this to be a lifetime habit and I think I am at a crucial point in turning that corner and gaining it as a HABIT not a NEED.

Part of what helps me be successful is being ANAL about tracking my dietary intake, I haven't missed a day since January 5th when I "Restarted" my journey. For me its a constant reminder of the task at hand and helps me keep focus. NOW, moving forward I wont be physically going the the computer to track this each and every day, it can get monotonous, boring and time consuming. I am going to rely in my knowledge and my internal "clock" so to speak to help me with this process - If its going to be a lifestyle change and become a habit then it needs to be transparent and just part of the daily routine so this is the challenge ahead for me.

With all this being said April will be a big challenge for me as several of us head out on a 9/10 day cross country trip on Friday morning. We're pulling my camper and going to Augusta National for a day (The Masters) and then on to Myrtle Beach and Pinehurst among other stops. I call it taking a break from reality and from the GRIND of the office and everything else, exercise and diet will still be on my mind and I wont go off the diet and go CRAZY while we are gone but I do intend on having a little fun on the trip. I wont blog here until I get back but if all goes well I'll get a few pics up on our camping blog during our trip. The Link is on the top left of this blog if interested. A net ZERO for the next 10 days would be FANTASTIC but a plus 2 or 3 would be okay. Now, there is a LOT of physical activity planned over the next 10 days so who knows I may even drop a couple of pounds - Either way FUN in moderation is my goal, I haven't used a vacation day yet this year and its been a long cold winter so I deserve this break. If you're so inclined pray for our safety...

Thanks for listening,

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT.... - B

Week 12 - No Time ?

2009-04-01T15:58:00.001-05:00

Today's Weight = 319.2 (+1.2 wtd/-41.8 ytd)

I averaged 2101 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 42%, Fat - 35%, Protein - 19% and Alcohol - 4%.

Here again lies the quandary that I find myself in from time to time, NO TIME, or the perceived no time. I've been busy and we had a camping trip thrown in there for good measure, I've had to take the camper in to be repaired one night, another night go and pick it up, another day busy at the office late and so on and so forth so I haven't had time to pay attention to my exercise especially. Sounds GOOD right... Yea, that's the ticket.... Well, I am going to have to call BULLSHIT on myself. Its not about time, its about priorities and I've let a few other things take priority to my exercise this past week and I paid for it on the scale. Not bad but it is losing the same weight again even if its only 1.2 pounds this week, the fact that I have to lose it again should be motivation enough to help me gain some priorities.

My monthly update will be coming up shortly, more to come...

FTF - B

Week 11 - Motivational Week

2009-03-24T12:01:00.004-05:00

Today's Weight = 318.0 (-7.4 wtd/-43 ytd)

I averaged 2042 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 36%, Fat - 35%, Protein - 19% and Alcohol - 10%.

I made it to the gym three times last week and did cardio twice BUT had three great lifting sessions. Its kind of interesting I had LESS cardio than lifting for the week, nutrition was basically the same as the week before (no drastic differences) and I had a VERY successful week as far as the scale goes. SO, I am going to try to replicate last weeks efforts for this week, more lifting than cardio shooting for 4 lifting sessions and 2 cardio sessions and we'll see what happens. This week and last week combined gave me an 11 pound loss in two weeks but the previous week was almost a 6 pound gain (that week was also a HIGH calorie week SO) so I'll be on the guard this week cause a couple of good weeks tend to be followed by a bad week for me. Not going to let that happen this week. 2000 cal average, 4 lifting sessions and 2 cardio sessions. I even had a couple of drinks too many on Saturday night last week so we'll aim for that again this week... :-)

SKIP IT - One tidbit that helps me trim calories each week is using mustard instead of mayo on things, now I am lucky because i actually like mustard so that helps but YOU'D be amazed as the calories you can save by changing this practice. I know, a lot of people cant stand mustard and LOVE their mayo BUT too BAD, if you are serious and want a little helper consider the following using ONE ounce measurements:

Mustard (M)had 19 calories and 1.1 grams of fat - Regular Mayo (RM) has 203 calories and 22.2 grams of fat - Diet or Low Calorie Mayo (LCM) even has 66 calories and 5.4 grams of fat.

Some things to consider:

You "healthy" turkey sandwich on two pieces of whole wheat bread will be in the neighborhood of 225 calories dry, now add one ounce of M and you get 244 calories and low fat to boot, on the other hand add one ounce of RM and you've almost doubled your caloric intake to almost 430 calories and close to 30 grams of fat. Even using LCM you increase your calories close to 300.

Big Deal, Hog WASH you say. Well even at ONE turkey on whole wheat sandwich a week for 52 weeks a year you will save close to 10,000 calories in a years time. Make that two sandwiches a week and you are looking at 20,000 calories in a years time. HUMMMMMM, I think you get my picture, seems like a no brainer to me...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT

B

PS: I've been told I am looking good several times in the last few days in the office, I guess I must be making progress...

Week 10 - The Right Direction

2009-03-16T10:09:00.002-05:00

Today's Weight = 325.4 (-3.6 wtd/-35.6 ytd)

I averaged 1967 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 40%, Fat - 33%, Protein - 21% and Alcohol - 5%.

I had hoped for more after last weeks major set back but I'll take it. Saturdays are a key day when weigh ins are on Monday and Saturday was by far my worst day so I can be happy with the loss this week. I actually only worked out twice last week so I pretty much got what I deserved. My nutrition was really good with the exception of Saturday so with two more workouts and a good Saturday it could have been a couple of pounds more. Oh, Well, we are moving in the right direction and overall since the 5th of January I am down over 35 pounds so, once again I'll take it.

Doesn't look like we'll make our 100 pounds by the masters trip but 80 would still be pretty darn good, actually the progress we've made overall is really pretty darn good.

Trying to regain a little focus this week and hit 4 workouts and NO BAD days nutritionally so we'll see how that goes.

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT - Bc

Week 9 - Rebound

2009-03-09T15:49:00.003-05:00

Today's Weight = 329.0 (+5.6 wtd/-32.0 ytd)

I averaged 2690 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 33%, Fat - 36%, Protein - 19% and Alcohol - 12%.

I had a great time this weekend with some great friends and I paid come Monday morning weigh in. I had a 5000 calorie day on Friday and you know what, it is what it is. It's NOT the end of the world and I wont wine, complain, bitch and moan, or anything else. It was a much needed break, now back to the business at hand. If I had to do it all again I would.

End of Story...

Fight the Fat and Keep the Faith...

February 2009 Recap

2009-03-02T10:09:00.003-06:00

Like I said in my weekly post for week Eight. I am SATISFIED in how February went. I made a 12 pound loss on the scale and set a personal best in distance on the bike in 30 minutes, 8.04 miles. Its kind of insane getting to 8 miles in 30 minutes for me because I really feel like I cant pedal any faster, I am usually alone in the gym when doing this and its a good thing because anyone witnessing this would probably call 911 and tell them to come pick up the escapee from the asylum.

Feb Counts
Ave Cal - 1905/day
Ave Fat - 29%
Ave Carb - 46%
Ave Protein - 23%
Alcohol Consumption - 1%
Feb Weight Loss - 12lbs.
2009 Weight Loss - 37.6lbs.
2009 Weekly Average - 4.7lbs

I decided now was a good time to start tracking my Body Fat % on a MONTHLY basis moving forward. I own a hand held OMRON (sp) unit that I will use moving forward, I know this machine can fluctuate and I will put it back in the drawer until April 1st when I dust it off again. I know I have gained some good muscle mass in the last couple of months so now as it gets tougher to lose weight I want to be able to talk about Lean Body Mass as well.

March 2nd = 33.3%
Weight = 323.4
Fat Pounds = 107.6 lbs.
Lean Body Mass = 215.7 lbs.

SO if I could magically take my body fat to ZERO (obviously not healthy) I would weigh 215 and have 0% BODY FAT - So much for all the government publications that say a man my height and build should weigh between 160 and 210 with anything over 210 being overweight - WTF, I mean really, where do they get that BS... :-)

In all actuality there are a couple milestones I am approaching and I'll talk about them when I have more time.

FTF - B

2009 - Week Eight - Satisfied

2009-03-02T09:53:00.002-06:00

Today's Weight = 323.4 (-2.8wtd/-37.6ytd)

I averaged 1848 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 41%, Fat - 31%, Protein - 27% and Alcohol - 1%.

satisfied - [sat-is-fahyd] –adjective
1. content: a satisfied look.
2. completely paid, as a bill.
3. convinced, as in an argument: Their opponents were finally satisfied.

I would be telling a LIE if I said I didn't want to have a bigger loss last week but you have to realize I am kind of a freak that way, hard and fast is more my style. (Just ask anyone who sits at the poker table with me) Patience goes against my very nature so its a bit harder for me to avoid disappointment at times, BUT with that being said I would have to say I am satisfied with my progress last week. Patience is something I have to work on at times and between this and having a 13 year old daughter its giving me plenty of practice. I know, I know, I didn't gain it over night and I sure as hell wont be able to lose it over night... A toast to patience - cheers...

I've got 13.4 pounds before the Masters to get my half taken care of and I fully intend on pulling my weight. The rest of the gang is doing pretty well too so I think we have a good shot at hitting our 100 pound goal before we leave.

February Overview to follow...

Thanks for listening...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

B

2009 - Week Seven - "The WAGON Broke"

2009-02-23T16:58:00.005-06:00

Today's Weight = 326.2 (+2.6wtd/-34.8ytd)

I averaged 1996 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 44%, Fat - 30%, Protein - 21% and Alcohol - 5%.

I really don't have a lot to say this week. I had a gain this week and for the most part the week was good, I did cardio three times and lifted twice and overall maintained a good healthy outlook throughout the week. With a Monday morning weigh in it is important to make Saturday's count and I didn't do great this past Saturday. Yes I did have a few drinks and had a great time out at Clancey's on Saturday night. Got home and proceeded to GRAZE like a COW and got what I deserved at this weigh in this week, so be it. Actually it felt like a burden had been lifted after the three or four scotches and three or four beers, oh well, so the wagon isn't for me. Moderation is key here and I have no issue with it moving forward. You have weeks where your body doesn't respond as well as you would think and its really just your body and not your week, look at the Biggest loser folks, some can post a gain while working out 5/6 hours a week and being directly supervised for their nutrition. Honestly I am not at all worried about reverting to old habits cause this process is here to stay.

I knew that DAMN wagon wasn't very sturdy but I gave it a shot....

Although I didn't help our team goal this week I am expecting good things this week.

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

2009 - Week Six - Mental Stamina

2009-02-17T12:48:00.003-06:00

Today's Weight - 323.8 (-3.6wtd/-37.4ytd)

I averaged 1933 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 47%, Fat - 30%, Protein - 23% and Alcohol - 0%. I don't really have a lot to say about my breakdown as it's so much better than it has been at times in the past. I will plan a little better this week to get the fat down a bit and the protein up a bit. I really like the mix of foods I am trying to eat and have kind of gotten into a routine with chicken, steamed veggies etc. Some of the snacks type foods i have to much on are higher in carbs, maybe I'll look for something with less carbs and more protein BUT I don't want to up the caloric intake with these either. The Quaker Oats type are only 90 calories and some of the bars with higher protein are higher calorie and more like meal replacements. We'll see.

I have to say I am physically feeling pretty good, more stamina and strength. I hit the gym 3 times last week for 3 sets of cardio and two upper body weight lifting sessions. I went with Eric to 24 hour fitness on Sunday night and really enjoyed that as well. The only draw back to that is that it takes a lot more time away than working out at the office or at home BUT, it sure is nice physically working out with someone else and having a full array of choices for your workout. The steam room, sauna and whirlpool were nice at the end of the workout as well.

My mental stamina is pretty good as well, I can walk away from bad choices for the most part and can keep away from the fast food and bad foods in general. Choices are a bit easier to make although I did have three cookies yesterday. :-) I've also only had fast food ONCE since Jan 5th and that was a single kids burger (no cheese) and 5 chicken nuggets. Once in six weeks is SO much better than 4 or 5 times a week... I'll take it...

My general mental outlook today is a little down in the dumps, I really can't pinpoint why or what I can do to change it. Work is good, home life is good, fitness routine is good, family and friends are all well. Maybe it was just one of those days where I woke up on the wrong side of the bed. This is BY FAR not the norm for me - the glass is truly half full. We'll grind through the day and get a good work out in later today and look forward to a better day tomorrow...

My goals this week are to workout 4 times this week and keep my calories at 1850 average for the week.

Thanks for listening...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

2009 - Week Five - Ignore the PAIN...

2009-02-09T09:22:00.011-06:00

Today's Weight - 327.4 -8/-33.6

I averaged 1695 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 46%, Fat - 31%, Protein - 23% and Alcohol - 0%. I really feel my nutritional focus was the best it has been in a LONG time last week. I didn't really waver or do anything to sabotage myself last week. The temptation was there, let me tell you but holding steadfast to the goal at hand is very doable and something I want more than anything right now. I really don't fear being too restrictive with my nutrition and actually this week is about the farthest I really want to push it at this time. I am comfortable with my intake, my body has adjusted to the amount of food I am giving it and I really don't have any big issues with hunger anytime. 1700 calorie average in real terms would bet the equivalent of eating over 5 six inch subway club (wheat bread) sandwiches (with no cheese) but pile on the veggies EACH Day. Stack it up on the counter and that really is a LOT of food.

I have to say my workouts were better than they have been in a LONG time last week. I was in the gym 4 times and had two lifting sessions and 4 GREAT cardio sessions. My bike riding totaled 110 minutes last week at 15+ miles per hour with a medium resistance on the fat burning program OR JUST enough to make me want to die finishing it. :-) Although, after Friday I do feel that I can push up the time on it starting next week if all goes well this week. One thing that really helps me during cardio is to program some motivational and hard charging music into the mp3 player and to CRANK IT UP and just simply gain focus and IGNORE THE PAIN....

Enough rambling for now...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...
B

January 2009 Recap

2009-02-02T11:43:00.003-06:00

In looking at the overall picture I have to be happy with the way January turned out. I dropped 25.4 pounds and I now have clothes that feel a LOT more comfortable. I've gained strength and was able to hit 30 minutes of cardio on the bike by the end of the month after starting out feeling like death at 12 minutes. They say the tortoise will always win the race with a slow and steady pace.

Jan Counts
Ave Cal - 1989/day
Ave Fat - 27%
Ave Carb - 49%
Ave Protein - 23%
Alcohol Consumption - ZERO

One thing I am going to add into the mix starting tomorrow is measuring my body fat. I have the machine at home collecting dust. I NEED it for my MENTAL Health, progress will keep me motivated and as I continue to strength train the scale will no doubt give me the finger at times but measuring my fat WONT...

2009 - Week Four - Overcoming Obstacles

2009-02-02T11:20:00.006-06:00

Today's Weight - 335.4 (+.4/-25.4)

I averaged 2187 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 44%, Fat - 30%, Protein - 26% and Alcohol - 0%. ONE DAY ruined my week. We went on our first camping trip of the season this past weekend. The good news is that my protein crept up a little but the bad news was that some of it was a LOT of bacon and sausage. My fat intake obviously went up as well.

The weather was to be nice and we had a case of cabin fever so we packed up on Friday and went to one of the local state parks. Saturday morning included a breakfast buffet and poorly scheduled meals throughout the day. Saturday was one BIG NAHD and at the time I felt I did good but after counting it all up I was over 3300 calories for the day. Its not like I went crazy or anything BUT after doing so well up to that point this was my first real disappointment. I've kind of had the mentality to try to avoid situations where I will fail and I let myself be put into that position this past weekend and I all I can say is that I am disappointed. I know I cant be perfect all the time but I really feel as though i let myself down. I know, I know, I shouldn't shoot myself or be so hard on myself but dammit anyway.

OVERCOMING OBSTACLES - I know that as being humans we are destined to fail over an over again but the judge of ones character is what we learn and how we overcome our failures. I've been there before and learned it in the past, time after time after time after time. My frustration is at my failure even though I know there will be times where things just don't go as planned. I have a hard time looking past the failure to the other six days of the week where I really did pretty good. I guess I should look on the positive side because to me the glass is generally half full. I did have a great weekend with my family and we did have some fun sitting in the lodge by the windows in the sun eating breakfast and enjoying the beautiful day.

Until next time - Keep the Faith and (I will continue to) Fight the FAT... (5 pounds this week)

Tom Venuto - 8 Reasons

2009-01-29T09:22:00.003-06:00

Hi all, I wanted to share an email I received the other day.

This comes from Tom Venuto at http://www.burnthefat.com/. I've followed him for quite a while and he is always pretty well right on with his information. You can subscribe to get his email updates on his web site. I think i have them all pretty much in check for now with maybe the exception of number 5, but I am working on it...

Clearly, we have an obesity problem in America and many other countries across our planet. Yet, I propose that we do not have a weight loss problem today. In case you're confused at this apparent contradiction, consider these statistics: According to a study from Oxford University published in The International Journal of Obesity, within 3 to 5 years, about 80 percent of all 'weight losers' have regained the lost weight, and often gained back a little extra. According to research by the National Weight Control Registry, that relapse rate may be as high as 95 percent. For comparison, relapse rates for drug, alcohol and tobacco dependency have been reported in the range of 50-90%. This means that lots and lots of people have "successfully"
lost weight. But not many have kept it off. Therefore, we don't have a weight loss problem, we have a weight-relapse problem; we have a "not sticking with it" problem, wouldn't you agree?
In fact, the fall and subsequent weight-regain usually doesn't take years. Many people have abandoned their new year's resolutions within weeks. By the time the Super Bowl party rolls around, their diet is history! If this is true, then shouldn't we put more of our attention onto figuring out why you haven't been sticking with your program, and what you should do about it? That's what I've been doing recently, and I made that a prime focus of my newest book, The Body Fat Solution I also put together this new list (below) of the top 8 reasons why you fall off the wagon. Rather than worrying about the minutiae of your diet plan, like whether you should be on low carb or high carb, Mediterranean or Okinawan, vegetarian or meat eater, I propose that if you simply focus on these 8 issues, you'll start getting more lasting results. How? By being able to stick with whichever plan you decided was best for you! After all, even if you have the best nutrition program in the world - on paper - it doesn't do you much good if you can't stick with it in practice!

THE 8 REASONS:
1. NO FOCUS: you didn't set goals, you didn't put your goals in writing, and or you didn't stay focused on your goals daily (by reading them, affirming them, looking at a vision board, etc.)
2. NO PRIORITIES: you may have set a goal, but you didn't put it on or near the top of your priorities list. For example, your goal is six pack abs, but drinking beer and eating fast food on the weekend is higher on your priorities list than having a flat stomach.
3. NO SUPPORT SYSTEM: you tried to go at it alone; no buddy system, training partners, family, spouse, friends, mentors or coaches to turn to for information and emotional support when the going got tough.
4. NO ACCOUNTABILITY - you didn't keep score for your own accountability - with a progress chart, weight record, measurements, food journal, training journal, and you didn't set up external accountability (ie, report to someone else or show your results to someone else)
5. NO PATIENCE: you were only thinking short term and had unrealistic expectations. You expected 10 pounds a week or
5 pounds a week or 3 pounds a week, so the first week you lost "only" 1 or 2 pounds or hit a plateau, you gave up.
6. NO PLANNING: you winged it. You walked into the gym without having a workout in hand, on paper, you didn't plan your workouts into your weekly schedule; you didn't have a menu on paper, you didn't make time (so instead you made excuses, like "I'm too busy")
7. NO BALANCE: your diet or training program was too extreme.
You went the all or nothing, "I want it now" route instead of the moderate, slow-and-steady wins the race route.
8. NO PERSONALIZATION: your nutrition or training program was the wrong one for you. It might have worked for someone else, but it didn't suit your schedule, personality, lifestyle, disposition or body type.

So there you have it - 8 reasons why most people to fall off the wagon! Have you been making these mistakes? If so, the solutions are clear and simple: focus, prioritize, get support, be accountable, be patient, plan, balance and personalize.
Train hard & Expect success,
Tom Venuto
http://www.burnthefat.com/

2009 Week THREE - Perseverance

2009-01-26T10:19:00.003-06:00

Today's Weight - 335 (-6.2/-25.8)

I averaged 1918 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 48%, Fat - 28%, Protein - 24% and Alcohol - 0%. Returning to a full week with only a couple minor "Nutritional and Health Distractions" (NAHD for further reference :-) ) was nice. I'd like to move the Fat down 8% and the protein up 8% and then I'd feel REAL good about it. I remain motivated and upbeat about this process and I feel a little different this time as opposed to any other time. Its kind of like I am at piece with the process and feel more "EVEN KEEL" with it. I worked out three times last week with two workouts being very good and one was kind of "Half Assed".

Perseverance - The dictionary has the following definition for perseverance:
–noun
1. steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., esp. in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.

NAHD = "Nutritional and Health Distractions", my new catch phrase for times when you could be swayed to the "dark" side. In all seriousness these are "opportunities" for failure where you need to remain focused and get your guard up a little bit. I had a couple of these instances this week and handled them VERY WELL.

NAHD #1 - Poker night last Monday. This is always an opportunity to go off the deep end and if I ever wanted to just GIVE UP poker night would afford the opportunity to do it. Now, with that being said, it was held at Matt's last week and Matt and Michelle did a great job providing a healthy option which was AWESOME, some cantaloupe, turkey, wheat bread, grapes and other healthy options. When the healthy option is there its much easier to stay focused. I will admit I had a couple of chocolate chip cookies in addition to the other healthy options but I WONT beat myself up about that at all.

NAHD #2 - Sunday Baptism. This was more about control and discipline than anything else. Pulled pork, taco salad, macaroni salad and french bread. I had some of each and even went back for a little extra taco salad (it was SO awesome - one of my favorites) but remained disciplined throughout the rest of the day to balance off the entire day and still stay under my 2000 calories goal. I passed on what looked like the BEST cake in the world. I wont KID you, I REALLY wanted some of that cake and ice cream and I also wanted to take the ENTIRE BOWL of taco salad and go hide in some closet somewhere and devour it ALL.

These type of things (NAHD) are going to happen and they aren't things you can just NOT go too so you have to practice keeping it together "between the ears". MENTAL TOUGHNESS and "Perseverance" really the key to my success right now and probably forever.

I look to make it another 6.2 pound week this week, that would put me at an even 32 pounds off for January - I'll take it baby. Think of the 5 pound bag of sugar you buy at the grocery store, 6 of those = WOW that is a lot... Better yet think of that 30 pound dumbbell you use for curls or shoulder presses. It really puts 30 pounds into perspective.

PS: My clothes are fitting much looser than before YEA...

Until next time - Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT

Twice the Man NAILS IT

2009-01-23T12:09:00.001-06:00

I found this blog entry by TWICE the MAN very inspirational and just had to share. The talk of KILLING THE FAT man hit a home run with me...

http://twicetheman2.blogspot.com/2009/01/kill-fat-man.html

Donut FRIDAY's - People are great.

2009-01-23T11:16:00.002-06:00

Well, you see we have this tradition, as do most office settings, of someone bringing treats on Friday's. Usually donuts or bagels and cream cheese or coffee cakes or something similar. The last time it was my turn I brouht a dozen donuts for the team and also brought Oranges, I had the orange. Well it seems to have caught on and at one point I was going to bow out of the rotation but as the manger for the team I just hadn't yet. It continued today, Leonard was in charge and he brought donuts, bagels and a FRESH FRUIT tray with pineapple, canteloupe and grapes. Now thats awesome, I can easly bypass the donuts for fresh fruit when that is an option and it seems to be becoming the norm now... YAY...

2009 - Week TWO - PRACTICING Nutritional Discipline

2009-01-19T11:39:00.004-06:00

Today's Weight - 341.2 (-3.2/-19.8)

I averaged 1980 calories last week with the following breakdown; Carbs - 51%, Fat - 25%, Protein - 24% and Alcohol - 0%. (I cant tell you this is 100% exact this week but it is VERY close) A decent balance and I am very excited about the Alcohol balance remaining at ZERO. I had a high day of over 2700 calories on Saturday but had planned ahead and made the MOST of the early part of the week by being EXTRA "Good" and focused on my nutrition.

The BOYS Trip - We had one our bi-annual boys fishing trip this past weekend (I mentioned it previously) and I knew it would be a challenge on several fronts but I made a promise to myself and I planned on keeping it.

I did pack a cooler and ate VERY well during this trip. I had oatmeal and bananas for breakfast while some others were having scrambled eggs, cheese, sausage ETC. I had a bowl of soup at the restaurant while others ate burgers and sandwiches etc. I had grilled chicken breasts and a chef salad for dinner while others ate Steaks, and other less healthy stuff. You kind of get the idea. One stop was one of our traditional stops, the GENOA Tavern for red beers and the best pizza in that part of the state. Usually TWO large MEAT LOVERS split between three or four of us, this time it was ONE large split four ways which essentially amounted to one of those personal pizza's you see at the pizza joints. It was SOOOOOO Good, I had to fight myself to not devour more and order more but discipline is good sometimes, I think it helps build changes in one's mentality.

I will say nobody even tempted me with food as they all know what I am trying to accomplish and they were very supportive. Actually, its not like we are a bunch of "FOOD Heathens" and in all reality this group of guys is all pretty much focused on being healthier in general too. None other than one is very LARGE like me and he's probably 260ish but a bit taller than me too. Most of the guys are 230ish trying to be 190ish and that is a GREAT challenge for them as well. Then there are the last two skinny bastards, (JUST KIDDING) naturally more slender and fit but they both work at it as well, running and push ups and and stuff like that to keep them where they are. And one more fella who was a 230ies guy for a LONG time and HAS SUCCESSFULLY changed hiself of the last several years and now maintains the 170 ish he is at and looks GREAT and hasn't looked back. (you kind of are a roll model even if I haven't told you that as of late)...

Now, on the drinking front, it was a little more challenging. You see, I am generally the one who can be counted on the "Liven" up things, shotgunning beers and taking shots and generally getting a little "LOOSE" at times. Its been well documented that the hangovers installed on our weekends are sometimes the stuff of legend. At one point in time we were keeping "Records" of items of interest, kind of a fun thing to help recollect some of the history of our trips. You know like "Most Fish Caught in a Weekend" or "Longest roadtrip to get to destination" etc. We'll we once set a record of almost 270 beers drank in a weekend, I think this weekend we may have set a record for LEAST beers drank in a weekend, I'd be very surprised if there were 50 or 60 drank over the entire weekend this time. I am not quite positive but I am "pretty" sure not ONE guy was hung over during our trip - I guess it SUCKS getting old.

I have to SAY there were a couple of points in the weekend where I wanted to grab a pitcher of red beer and SLAM it, or a can of beer and shotgun it BUT, I REALIZE discipline is good sometimes, is DEFINATELY helps to build changes in ones mentality.

I have to give KUDOS to my friend Eric who has very recently quit smoking and did AWESOME over this weekend. I know he had a bigger challenge than I had to face this weekend and really did well.

This week will include more working out and another good balance of nutrition, I look for 6 pounds this week. Until next time...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT...

2009 Week ONE - "A New Hope"

2009-01-12T09:39:00.003-06:00

We've got a little something going on with Matt and Eric, you see we are taking a trip and leaving on April 3rd and we want to lose a hundred between the three of us by then. I am responsible for the first 50 and they'll get the other 50 so we are OFF.

Today's weight - 344.4

I averaged 1870 calories a day over the last week with the following breakdown. Carbs - 55%, Protein - 20%, Fat 25%, and Alcohol - 0%. - Not a perfect balance but a whole heck of a lot better than the previous month. I've gone on the WAGON until April 1st so that Alcohol count ill be ZERO until then if all goes well.

I feel really focused on good nutrition this round, it needs to become second nature and a lifetime change. Moderation has never been something I have had the ability to focus on when it comes to eating and drinking, it seems like its always PEDAL TO THE METAL when it comes to both. I once set a record at the Godfathers pizza buffet in college, 17 pieces of pizza eaten. I also have been know ( back in the day ) to order 12 Cheeseburgers, a Big Deluxe and a small diet coke at the local fast food choke and puke. So its never been anything I was any good at, oh yea in spurts I could get focused but its never been LIFELONG as of yet, so that's one thing I am really keying on. There is a difference between being in weight loss mode and being in maintenance mode and I haven't quite figured out the maintenance mode thing yet BUT, I WILL.

I did work out 4 times last week which was obviously huge and I also had a lot of water weight to lose due to gorging myself over the holidays. HELL I sat my FAT ass in the basement one night over the holidays and ate a whole bag of Hershey's kisses, the thing was, I wasn't even hungry when doing it. I know I've got to get it right "between the ears" this time, no more eating whole bags of potato chips, 25 boneless wings with cheesy potato's at BWW, and no more 20 drink nights partying.

I am gearing up for a challenge this week, we've got our boys trip next weekend and that's usually not a nutritional balance BUT we'll make it work this time. I am planning a menu and packing a cooler with my own food. NO, I wont get all messed up and eat and drink like a HOG this weekend, this I promise (I promise it to myself most importantly).

Obviously the first week is always a SHOCKING week to your system when you start to focus on your health and I know there will be challenges, there will be weeks when I struggle and post a GAIN for the week and I also know this is a LONG process, I didn't get here overnight. BUT I am tired of losing the same 50 pounds over and over again. I want to get to the point where I am in new and uncharted territories. Under 300 for one would be a new and uncharted territory not reached since probably 1985. Enough blabbing for now...

Keep the Faith and FIGHT THE FAT - B

I've been BAD

2009-01-06T12:06:00.003-06:00

We'll with the new year comes a new set of goals. I've been bad over the holidays and my weight is ugly... 361 Sunday night and feeling really big and TIRED all the time. BUT I have spirit and dammit I am going after it, making 2009 my year to make it happen. I know I can take off the pounds as I have done it in the past and will do it again, the thing I have to work out somehow is staying motivated and making this a lifestyle change. I always get to the point where I am feeling good and making good progress then let it slip. To lose 110 pounds in 2007 basically and gain 50 pounds in 2008 really pisses me off. If I had kept focus in 2008 I'd be where I want to be by now - SO focus it is. I've got to fight through the fatigue I am experiencing right now and once I get stronger that should become less of an issue. I mean I WAKE UP TIRED right now.

Eric, Matt and I are working at supporting each other as they are ready for a change too, Being obese very tiring and its got to be a lifestyle change. I know Travis is on the journey too so there should be plenty of support around here.

I am not going to get so wrapped up in the numbers as much as the action, I will use the scale to measure progress but wont be fanatical about it. I am going to take monthly pictures too so I can see where I was once I get where I want to be.

I got a small workout in yesterday and kept my calories at 2000 for the day, we'll get another one in today and go from there. AND OH, by the way I am on a personal journey to go on the WAGON for 90 days, if nothing else to see if I can do it and also to eliminate ALL of those empty calories.

Regaining the Faith and FIGHTING THE FAT again....

PS: I am calling out Matt Martin to get back on it again too as well as my brother Richard, make no excuses baby if a slacker like me can do it you surely can.

Be afraid, be very afraid...

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

2008-12-27T13:09:00.001-06:00

Merry Christmas to all of you and a happy New Year. With the new year will come a new committment to my health life... Stay Tuned, its ugly right now but the FIGHT will renew in 2009 and we'll do better than ever...

Talk to you all soon.

Bc

Not Going to STRESS Out

2008-12-02T21:19:00.003-06:00

You know it's become apparent that I won't be under 300 by January 1st and for once I am NOT going to stress out about it. As a matter of fact I am taking a well deserved break from the stress of trying to lose weight and get into shape to enjoy the holidays. January 1st will be a new and improved effort, one not seen in these parts since JAN,FEB,MAR,APRIL of 2007. I am not going to think about being healthy or dieting or anything of that nature until then, I am going to enjoy the holidays. DONT get me wrong I am not going off the deep end, just giving it a rest.

Perspective - The glass IS half full

2008-11-18T08:12:00.002-06:00

I got this today in email and wanted to share.

I AM THANKFUL:
FOR THE WIFE WHO SAYS IT'S HOT DOGS TONIGHT,BECAUSE SHE IS HOME WITH ME,AND NOT OUT WITH SOMEONE ELSE.

FOR THE HUSBAND WHO IS ON THE SOFA BEING A COUCH POTATO,BECAUSE HE IS HOME WITH ME AND NOT OUT AT THE BARS.

FOR THE TEENAGER WHO IS COMPLAINING ABOUT DOING DISHESBECAUSE IT MEANS SHE IS AT HOME,NOT ON THE STREETS.

FOR THE TAXES I PAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM EMPLOYED.

FOR THE MESS TO CLEAN AFTER A PARTY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN SURROUNDED BY FRIENDS.

FOR THE CLOTHES THAT FIT A LITTLE TOO SNUGBECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE ENOUGH TO EAT.

FOR MY SHADOW THAT WATCHES ME WORK BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM OUT IN THE SUNSHINE

FOR A LAWN THAT NEEDS MOWING,WINDOWS THAT NEED CLEANING,AND GUTTERS THAT NEED FIXING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE A HOME.

FOR ALL THE COMPLAINING I HEAR ABOUT THE GOVERNMENT BECAUSE IT MEANS WE HAVE FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

FOR THE PARKING SPOT I FIND AT THE FAR END OF THE PARKING LOT BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM CAPABLE OF WALKING AND I HAVE BEEN BLESSED WITH TRANSPORTATION.

FOR MY HUGE HEATING BILL BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM WARM.

FOR THE LADY BEHIND ME IN CHURCH WHO SINGS OFF KEY BECAUSE IT MEANS I CAN HEAR.

FOR THE PILE OF LAUNDRY AND IRONING BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE CLOTHES TO WEAR.

FOR WEARINESS AND ACHING MUSCLES AT THE END OF THE DAY BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE BEEN CAPABLE OF WORKING HARD.

FOR THE ALARM THAT GOES OFFIN THE EARLY MORNING HOURS BECAUSE IT MEANS I AM ALIVE.

AND FINALLY, FOR E-MAIL's BECAUSE IT MEANS I HAVE FRIENDS WHO ARE THINKING OF ME.

Live well, Laugh often, & Love with all of your heart!

Friday Weigh IN

2008-11-09T21:13:00.002-06:00

Sorry, haven't posted my friday update yet - FURNACE OUT at home, HUGE EXPENSE right on TOP of the new TRUCK I bought, (see my other blog) too much other CRAP going on so for now... 334.8, still going the righ way... MORE TO COME SOON...

FRIDAY Weigh In - 10/31/08

2008-10-31T13:46:00.004-05:00

Today: 336.6
Last Time: 338.4
Week Lost: 1.8
Month Lost: 18.0
Lost Since OCT 1st: 18.0
Max Density: 418.0
Total Lost since MAX: 81.4 lbs.
Current Goal: 299.9 before Jan 1, 2009
To Goal: 36.7
To Achieve:
68 Days/ .60 lbs per day
8 Weeks: 4.58 lbs per week
2.0 Months: 18.35 lbs per month

Progress I guess. We'll the next two months have to be better to be where I want to be. The thing of it is I watched my food intake pretty well last week but didn't get to the gym or on the bike or anything extra. I AM GOING for this goal so this weekend I will get everything in order to become a workout FOOL for the next two months. If you don't combine working out with managing your consumption then you are really HALF ASSING it. I Guess that's what I did for the month of October SO, CARDIO and WEIGHTS and a BUNCH of walking here I come. I can be happy with an 18 pound month but wont be happy if I don't have a 20 pound month in November.

Why is it so DAMN hard to do the right thing. I guess I have to work better on keeping the temptations at bay and getting my will power in full gear. When it really comes right down to it WILL POWER is the key.

Friday Weigh In - 10/24/08

2008-10-24T08:53:00.003-05:00

Today: 338.4
Last Time: 339.6
Week Lost: 1.2
Month Lost: 16.2
Lost Since OCT 1st: 16.2
Max Density: 418.0
Total Lost since MAX: 79.6 lbs.
Current Goal: 299.9 before Jan 1, 2009
To Goal: 38.5
To Achieve: 68 Days/ .57 lbs per day
9 Weeks: 4.27 lbs per week
2.25 Months: 17.11 lbs per month

Weekly progress was not what I expected but I did maintain the correct direction. I need to pop off a good week this week to keep my momentum. I had one major bad day last week where I ate Chinese for lunch anticipating a good rest of the day and ended up at Buffalo Wild Wings that night. I also had a bad day camping with a new variation of Peach Cobbler :-). It's Valerie and Alyssa's favorite place to eat, not to mention mine as well. We'll keep plugging away and I plan on a good week this week. 3.5 lbs this week and I would be fired up. Oh, yea, I forgot to do any structured exercise last week so that's dumb on my part.

Everyone KEEP working hard and continue Fighting the FAT and Keep the Faith.

10/17 Weigh In

2008-10-16T13:11:00.006-05:00

MOVING my weigh in day to Friday Mornings.

Today: 339.6
Last Monday: 342.8
Week Lost: 3.2
Month Lost: 15
Lost Since OCT 1st: 15
Max Density: 418.0
Total Lost since MAX: 78.4 lbs.
Current Goal: 299.9 before Jan 1, 2009
To Goal: 39.7
To Achieve: 75 Days/ .52 lbs per day
10 Weeks: 3.97 lbs per week
2.5 Months: 15.88 lbs per month

A little party last weekend derailed me a bit but still on track. Extra walking and focused on calorie intake is working and will continue to work. Looking for a 5 pound week this week. Anything more than that really isn't healthy at all and even that is pushing it. Losing 5 lbs for a 340 pounder is the same as losing 2.5 for 180 pounder so its not too extreme. I contribute HUGE loss the first week to basically SHOCKING my system with exercise and food restriction so I won't see another one like that but that's the norm. Moving weigh ins to Friday will help keep my head in the game better as Monday mornings can tend to be risky with weekend activities and I always do better during the week with my focus and structure...

Keep fighting baby.

FTF and Keep the Faith - Bc

Health Fair Results

2008-10-07T18:02:00.002-05:00

We had our health fair today at work and I had a few things checked as I always do. Here are the results as they were made aware to me today:

Total Cholesterol - 108
Blood Sugar - 85
Blood Pressure - 130/84

Now if I could JUST do something about that "3" in front of my weight....

FTF - B

10/6 Weigh In - WHOA.....

2008-10-06T11:09:00.001-05:00

Today: 342.8
Last Monday: 354.6
Week Lost: 11.8
Month Lost: 11.8
Max Density: 418.0
Total Lost since MAX: 75.2 lbs.
Current Goal: 299.9 before Jan 1, 2009
To Goal: 42.9
To Achieve: 86 Days/.49lbs per day
12 Weeks: 3.58 lbs per week
3 Months: 14.3 lbs per month (rough)

I've got to say I had my most focused week in at least the last 6 months last week. I went back to the fitday tracker and that sure makes me accountable. Tracking all you intake throughout the days and week makes it much clearer to see where you are headed.

Even with great focus I had a couple of bad moments during the week. I had a few drinks on Friday night and then again on Saturday. Those empty calories and the lack of focus that usually comes after them arn't any good for anybody, BUT thats me and thats who I am. My goal was to maintain about 2000 caloreis a day for the week and the weekly average came in at about 2200 even with the extra drinks. Extra walking, exercise and really very limited soda intake and cut down on caffine as well will pay dividends.

350LBS on a 1800 - 2200 a day restriction is definately a recipet for success. We'll keep with that focus for this week. I plan to continue with extra physical activity this week and will get into the weight room as well for a planned focus lifting session a couple times this week.

Planning ahead I know I am going out with the boys this weekend (Will be at homecoming in WAYNE America for 3 days) and will definately have the opportunity to overinduldge some so EXTRA focus early in the week a key here too. Better choices during the upcoming weekend will help too, grilled chicken breast sandwich as opposed to the double whopper at the fast food joint and staying away from GODFATHERS BUFFET will be part of the goal. Once back in the day I set a record in my group for eathing 17 pieced of Pizza at that buffet. It still gets talked about from time to time....

FTF and Keep the Faith...

B

INSANITY and SMALL CHANGES plus OCTOBERFEST

2008-10-01T14:02:00.003-05:00

You all know the definition of INSANITY is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. That's pretty much been the YO-YO for me the past few month; have a good week or two and drop 3 pounds and then have a bad week and gain 5 pounds. Can't go one step forward and two back and EVER get anywhere.

A few observations and goals for Oktoberfest; some are very simple but important.

A. Parking - Why is it that everyone always tries to find the closest parking stall to the door, weather it be at the office, at the mall or at the grocery store. I paced it off yesterday from my normal spot at the office (as close as I can get to the door) its about 82 paces to my office. This morning I parked at the furthest spot from the front door and its 220 paces to my office. That's 270% more walking than before. 3 Trips each day was 246 paces and is now 660 paces NO BRAINER...

B. Working out with both weights and cardio a minimum of 3 times a week and doing something a little extra on "non workout" days such as a lap around the building or a couple of laps at the mall.

C. 2000 Good calories a day is IT for now as well as a lot of good old fashion water and ONE pop a day at the MAX (if any).

D. I plan to be accountable to the FTF blog and most importantly myself. Remembering that MIND OVER MATTER is the key for me as well as making better choices.

E. No more talk, time to work, if it was easy everyone would be slim.

FTF and Keep the Faith... B

Tuesday Morning Weigh In

2008-10-01T13:55:00.002-05:00

It all caught up with me. Too many temptations, too much birthday cake, too many drinks, too much bad food and too much unhealthy snacking... 354.6 on Tuesday morning.

OCTOBERFEST is ON - October will be the best month yet, I've said it before but I really mean it. I've actually set some goals and have gone back to my fitday account to start tracking my food and activities. It was the key to success before and it will get me back on track again. I was really starting to feel good at my birthday last year in the ballpark of 300 lbs so I guess I just felt I didn't have to try as much and look where I am now. 40 plus pounds up in one year basically... That's BS...

Keep the Faith and FTF.

Monday Weigh In

2008-09-22T11:01:00.000-05:00

I am amazed I didn't gain last week as I had three bad days. Beers, appetizers and more beers one day, Buffalo Wild wings "gorgefest" another day and a party on Saturday night were I had drinks and way too much food. ILL TAKE IT. 1.2 lbs for the week. Looking for good things this week as I have 4 workouts scheduled that I WILL NOT MISS.

Happy Birthday to me today - 41 feeling physically 51 and mentally 31...

Monday Morning Weigh In

2008-09-15T10:23:00.002-05:00

A couple of pounds this last week is okay with me. Getting the ball rolling and its at the top of the hill just starting down the hill, its moving, its getting ready to start picking up speed. A couple of workouts last week, some push ups, extra walking, yep, I feel good about it.

The Best is Yet to Come...

B

Too Paralized to ACT

2008-09-10T15:24:00.002-05:00

Dammit, trying to get focused with everything going on and constantly worrying a bout trying to lose weight has got me headed in the WRONG direction. I've got to become like NIKE, Just do it.... Just do something besides filling my face!!!! My motto the last several weeks has been the old "if you ignore something it will just go away" motto. We'll now there is more of me to go away. I had a goal to start the Monday after labor day and I started tracking but didn't officially start anything until last night. As I floundered on the floor watching TV and eating Lemon cookies dunked in milk I decided I had put TOO much effort into getting some of this weight off to let go and in no time be back at 418 PLUS in no time. SO, i actually did 5 sets of 10 push ups last night for my first actual exercise in months. Granted they were CHICK push-ups off my knees but dammit its a start.

Gotta GO, NOW... Whatever the problem is with my commitment to a healthier lifestyle has GOT TO GO - No more excuses and no more letting outside distractions get in my way.

No MORE "Analysis Paralysis" - I know I've said it before but now is the time and I am committed to it as much as I've been since the beginning...

Wish me luck and say a prayer for me cause I'll need all the help I can get.

Anybody know any 400 pound 70 year olds???

B

Getting Political

2008-09-10T15:13:00.002-05:00

Dear Mr. Obama - Until I figure out how to post video here please review this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG4fe9GlWS8

I AM Back

2008-08-11T22:55:00.003-05:00

We are back from vacation and I am looking to start making my move on the health front. I really have several things to talk about over the next few weeks that I've come to realize and after a 10 day vacation with you family you realize the word "SIMPLIFY" becomes more of something to strive for.

We'll talk more soon...

FTF and Keep the FAITH

B

PS: One pound gain durning vacation ROCKS....

HORRIBLE

2008-07-30T14:54:00.005-05:00

I am a horrible blogger right now. The scale said 328 this morning so I am doing OKAY in that aspect since I am not GAINING weight.

In the last 2/3 months WORK has NEVER been busier. I mean in all the 40 years of my existence I have NEVER been busier with anything. We've got two MAJOR projects going on at the same time and have doubled our workload, added employees and taken on a WHOLE lot more. Its actually been good, I enjoy the challenge and the time has FLOWN by but its just TOO Busy. I think we've finally got all the major items fixed and running and it finally feels as though I may be able to breathe again... :-)

We're actually heading out on VACATION on the 1st for 10 days. This is the vacation originally scheduled for the first week in JUNE that I ended up postponing so it is definitely OVERDUE. We are not going far, just into IOWA and pulling our camper but its just EXACTLY what we wanted to do. Get away and RELAX. ( http://clemfamcamp.blogspot.com/ )

BE ON THE LOOK out because my WINTER CONDITIONING program will be kicking off shortly after LABOR day and by the time the start of next summer comes around you WONT RECOGNIZE ME...

FTF and Keep the Faith...

4th of July Challenge

2008-07-07T11:10:00.002-05:00

I really petered out at the end and over the last three weeks of this challenge. The word on the street is that now we are having a Labor Day Challenge. I am game and ready to keep moving forward with MORE determination. I do want 300 by the end of the year so its time to PUT UP OR SHUT UP.

FADE....

2008-06-20T15:49:00.003-05:00

I haven't had a lot of time lately to blog but I am still looking after my weight and health. I've been on the bike several times and been watching my bad food intake pretty closely too. It doesn't happen to quickly anymore but I have to realize that where I am right now is what you would call my "Set Point". The weight you body gets used to and you really need to shock your system to blow through a set point. I was as this weight from January of '86 for probably 15 years until I put on the next 75lbs, that may be why it is much harder now than it was to get the initial 75 off. We'll keep working on it and get there at some point in time. My goals are a little less aggressive than they have been in the past but slow and steady wins the race. Reality tells me I can be under 300 by the end of the year and that is my VERY realistic goal now. Patience is the KEY.

Thanks everyone for your support.

Looks like the captain and everyone else is kind of fading on this 4th of July Challenge. Spidey may still have a chance but I don't plan on giving up so bring it on.

Liberty's 90th Party

2008-06-10T23:40:00.005-05:00

I wanted to post a few pictures of my Grandmother's 90th Birthday party here. Some of my family frequents this blog to check up on my FAT FIGHT and for those of you that couldn't make this party I just wanted to share. If you click (or double click) on the pictures they will enlarge and if you right click on it you should be able to save it if you want it. OKAY, so I lied about double clicking to enlarge but please feel free to save to your files if you wish.

Thanks and God Bless..

Spidey Hits the NAIL on the HEAD

2008-06-09T15:58:00.001-05:00

Read Spidey's post and know that he hits the nail directly on the head. LINK

Finally Ready Again

2008-06-04T09:30:00.002-05:00

I am finally ready to make a concerted effort toward improving my health. I made HUGE progress last year and kind of rested on my laurels so to speak, still working but not putting my WHOLE efforts into it, so its time again.

Sunday I got 4 miles in on the bike and last night I went for an hour and got in about 10 miles and finally found the West Papio Trail. It's so much nicer and safer to be on the trail that to travel through town stopping at stop signs, dodging cars and riding on the narrow sidewalks at times. I've got a headlight and a taillight on my bike so completing this at 10pm was really no big deal.

I am excited and feel refreshed today and ready to do it again. Golf league tonight and then back to the trail on Thursday night. We'll be camping this weekend but will take the bikes along too so look for some good exercise over the weekend too.

Only a MONTH left in the 4th of July Challenge and I WILL win it FOR SURE. There is no doubt in my mind.

Taking it in the SHORTS...

2008-05-27T09:02:00.002-05:00

The 4th of July Challenge took a HIT this weekend... Surprisingly only a small one and I'll be back on track hard this week.

Friday - Bar-B-Que at our home - Brats, Beers, Salads, Beers, Scotch, Cookies, Beers Snacks - WHEW
Saturday - James 40th at his house - Ron's famous smoked pork ribs and shoulder, Old Milwaukee, PBR, JagerBombs, Salads, Brownies, Banana pudding ETC...
Sunday - Grandma's 90th Party - Food GALORE, BEERS, more food, more beers...
Sunday Night - Pam's 40th Party - Food, Drinks, CAKE (luckily by this time I was pretty worn out and kind of petered out)
Monday - ALL the LEFTOVERS including CUPCAKES, NACHOS, CHIPS, SNACKS ETC...

AMAZINGLY only a two pound gain... Gotta FIGHT BACK...

B

No Excuses, Just the Facts

2008-05-21T11:17:00.003-05:00

I am having a hard time getting work outs in right now. I've been monitoring my food and doing okay there but am struggling to get to the gym, and I even have one set up in the basement. I am busier than ever at the office and seem to be running every minute of every day that I am not at the office. On a positive note a lot more GENERAL activities are going on as they usually do over the summer; Golf League, yard work, honey do list, so the activity level is up since the winter but not enough. I have golf league tonight and plan on walking the course so that's a step in the right direction and I plan on working out sometime today, even if its at 11pm after golf league. (even push ups and sit ups every night before jumping into bed would be good)...

FTF and Keep the Faith...

PS: Did you hear the one about some congressman somewhere trying to pass legislation somewhere making it illegal for restaurants to serve OBESE people? Now, what the hell is that, really steams my ass. How in the world of common sense could he ever think that would be a solution or even legal in these United States. OH, wait didn't we have something like that in the past with "White Only" declarations - I guess even the US it totally moronic and STUPID at times...

Challenge Note

2008-05-08T17:09:00.000-05:00

I will be away camping at the great Ponca State Park this weekend so will not be able to post weight again after tomorrow morning until Monday morning. You guys better behave this weekend as I plan to come back with a little surprise on my next weighin...

Go Team - Fight the Fat baby...

4th of July Challenge

2008-05-06T22:26:00.002-05:00

Me and a couple of my other blogger fatties are starting a new challenge. The 4th of July Challenge is ON. I'll be posting weight nearly every day and we'll see who can make the biggest dent by then. Nothing RADICAL, just wise. Exercise and nutrition not starvation. I'll post more on this soon but for now Good Night.

We're Off

2008-05-02T11:38:00.001-05:00

335.2 Today and 34.6 BF... Its ON....

Tired of it...

2008-05-01T11:47:00.002-05:00

You know what I am FED UP and TIRED of the BS. I've been talking the talk but not walking the walk. Its a BUNCH OF CRAP, TODAY it starts again. NO more excuses, how in the hell would I expect to make positive steps if I am not WHOLE heartedly INTO the process. What's the definition of INSANITY. "to continue doing what you have been doing and expecting different results". NO MORE... Grocery shopping toinght, weighing in and body fat tomorrow morning and GO BABY GO...

2008 - Week 15 Update

2008-04-21T15:04:00.008-05:00

Weight Today: 330.0
Lost this Year: 8.6lbs
Total Since MAX: 88lbs
April Goal: 323.4 (yikes)

I did hit the weights once last week and once two weeks ago and just can't get that JUMP Start I need to get more focused on the issue at hand. I feel like I am busy all the time but that's just an excuse to not exercise. Everyone is always only as busy as they want to be and can do a better job of prioritizing. I did however get a few miles in on the bike over the course of the last two weeks and feel that my bike BUTT is better now and with the weather getting better its only a matter of time before I am ready for the TACO RUN. A better effort this week I promise.

My spiritual life is a little off as well, maybe its just that time of year. Maybe a trip to MSGR Dunne this week is in order. :-)

By no means am I "down in the dumps" about either of these things I just know when both are in HIGH gear there's no better feeling.

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat - B

2008 - Week 13 Update

2008-04-07T09:17:00.005-05:00

2008 - Week 13 Update (Week 9, 10, 11, 12 too)
Weight Today: 331.4
Lbs Lost this Year: 7.2
Current Body Fat: 33.2
Total Since MAX Density: 86.6
April 30 Goal: 323.4

I have been extremely busy at work and started a new hobby in my personal life that has taken a bunch of time so I haven't posted here lately but I KNOW I need to get back to it.

I have continued to watch my eating and have even broken in the bike and am trying to get my "BIKE BUTT" back. (my butt is sore right now) We did approximately 8 miles on the bike on Saturday and walked approximately 4 miles this past weekend so I am starting to get back at it. Tomorrow I will have the gym at home all set back up so there can be no excuses. Looking for a minimum loss of 8 pounds by the end of April and I am "in the right mind" to make this all happen. Thanks for your support and encouragement.

THE renewed serious dedication is now. On March 25th my cousin, at the grand old age of 43, went to the hospital not feeling well with shortness of breath and came out a few days later having a triple bypass and an issue with one of his valves fixed. I've suddenly got some motivation back. We joked a bit on the phone last week that the only time we talk is when someone dies or is really sick or someone gets married. We'll were all married off for the most part so I guess we better do something about changing the fact that we congregate only at times of peril. :-)

IN the whole scheme of things we never know our time and when its time its time but one thing to consider is WHERE are you going when its YOUR TIME...

Keep the Faith and Fight the FAT.

B

Updates Coming

2008-03-30T00:11:00.002-05:00

I am a little behind as its been a very busy time but I plan to update by Monday night and April 1st is a big DATE for RENEWED effort.

Cherokee Grey Wolf 28BH

2008-03-11T23:58:00.001-05:00

Taken from www.acnrv.com

A Good Friends Rough Time

2008-03-11T23:40:00.004-05:00

My good Friend Lyle mother passed away Saturday so its been a pretty tough week for him and his family. He sang and talked at the service all while fighting of what seemed to me that nasty flu bug that was going around. He did a teriffic job at the service as I knew he would and I know his mom was very proud of him. Kind of brought up a bunch of good memories about Genelle, mom's are AWESOME, I can't wait to someday see mine again...

D. Elaine Waterhouse, age 74, of Missouri Valley, Iowa, passed away Saturday, March 8, 2008 at the Community Memorial Hospital in Missouri Valley. Survivors include her children, Ellen Tjarks and husband Tim, of Aurora, Ill., Lyle Waterhouse and wife Deborah, of Missouri Valley, Iowa, Beth Briggs and husband Donnie, of Missouri Valley, Iowa; eleven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; sisters, Frances Coleman, of Boring, Ore., Ardell Jorgensen, of Watertown, S.D., JoAnne Gaver and husband Larry, of Missouri Valley, Iowa. Visitation with the family will be held from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Monday at the Hennessey-Aman Funeral Home in Missouri Valley. Services Tuesday at 11:00 a.m. at the funeral home. Final resting place in Rose Hill Memorial Garden in Missouri Valley.

B

2008 - Week NINE Update

2008-03-11T23:26:00.005-05:00

Weight Today: 330.0
+/- Since last week: -.2
Total Loss Since MAXIMUM DENSITY: 88.0 lbs
Total Loss This Year: 8.6Lbs
March Loss: -.2Lbs
Current Body Fat: 32.4%

Well, well, well a net NULL for the week. I'll take it because I got what I worked for and that was pretty much a stalemate. I did figure out what was going on with my body fat as I seemed to have been stuck on 35.5 to 36% for the longest time. Well DUH, the "measurer" has to take into consideration your current weight and I hadn't change it since 355LBS. I eagerly reset the gizmo and found that I had made a little progress. The last 5 times I have worked out I have included weghts as well, specifically the 5 main upper body muscles SO, we'll keep that going.

Its been a long week already as you can see my NORMAL Monday Weekly summary has come out on Tuesday night. :-)

Been doing real well with my Lenten resolutions and plan to hit Boys Town Mass on Wednesday again, giving up drinking has not been that REAL hard but I know I probably won't make that resolution again (sounds like I am a drunk or something which is NOT the case) as there have been two or three times where I would have liked to have a beer with the gang. SPECIFICALLY at the Holy Name Fish Fry on Friday night, if you've never been there its definately worth the trip, its kind of like a CULT following. You and 4000 of your closest friends waiting in lines that sometimes exceed a couple of hours to eat ALL YOU CAN EAT fish and fries. On a SAD note Mr. Suds retired after last year....

Made a trip to Storage and took a few things out to the camper - MAN AM I READY TO GO. I have to admit I am a bit nervous as there is MUCH more than meets the eye the first few times you make a trip with a 30 FT Travel Trailer. I am sure it will be fine, maybe I'll post a pic if I can find one...

Take Care and God Bless

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat

B

A Three Pound Week is in order.

Girl Scout Cookies - "YUMMY"

2008-03-05T09:29:00.006-06:00

Why are the good things in life so bad for you... :-) Now, before I go too far with this rant I want you to know that I support the Girl Scouts and what they do and have done for girls throughout the years. This isn't a Girl Scout bashing post just some simple facts having to do with their DARN addictive cookies.

All of these numbers are based on their Peanut Butter Patties, MY FAVORITE...

There was an article I read in one of the Omaha monthly publications that stated the OMAHA grils scouts set a RECORD by selling 750,000 boxes of cookies this year. Wow, WOW.... Thats basically one for every MAN, WOMAN and CHILD in the greater OMAHA metro area. I got to thinking after I CHOWED down my box of Peanut Butter Patties last night, WHAT HAVE I DONE. I turned the box over and to my HORROR I had just injested 8 searvings of PBP's at the tune of 150 calories per serving. I wanted to puke but I also deep down inside wanted the SAVOR the taste as I knew I didnt want to make this a habbit. :-)

My curiousity peaked and I pulled together some ball park numbers:

The average person riding 15 miles an hour on a bike for an hour can/could burn 1000 calories. (this may or may not be high based on different circumstances but we'll use this number for the sake of ease)
The average box of PBP's is 1200 calories - Hence, 1.2 Hours and 18 miles to burn off a box of PBP's
The Omaha Area Metro Area is said to have approximately 800,000 people in the area.

DID YOU KNOW:

750,000 boxes of GSC's @ 1200 calores a box would be 900 Million Calories !
One man would have to ride a bike 15 miles an hour, 24 Hours a DAY for 102.7 years to burn off that many calories. Impossible, so get 9 of your closest friends to help you and you'd each only have to do 10.2 years of biking 24/7.
He could go to the MOON AND BACK 23 times.
He would have to circle the Earth 542 times.
He could make the trip from NY to LA 5,507 times.
He would have to make the trip from Omaha to Scottsbluff (always seemed like a LONG drive to me) a total of 34,177 times.
He would have to circle a quarter mile track 54 MILLION times.
He would have to do 2,177,419 10 K's

This is not a ONE man battle, its everyone concern. SO, with that being said I need EVERYONE in the Omaha/Metro area to get out and get your 16.87 miles on the bike in this weekend. Yes, grandma and the new baby too....

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat

PS: On the bright side that poor guy doing all the biking would only have to go 8% of the way to Saturn and turn around and come on back to get it done...

2008 - Week EIGHT Update

2008-03-03T09:17:00.006-06:00

Weight Today: 330.2
+/- Since last week: +1.6
Total Loss Since MAXIMUM DENSITY: 87.8 lbs
Total Loss This Year: 8.4Lbs
February Loss: -4.6Lbs.

I won't complain about the small gain this week. My plans for my Houston trip went by the wayside. The gym was closed, but I could get a free pass to Balley's which was only a 20 minute drive from the hotel ???(^*(^$(). So, I thought to myself, how about a swim? Pool was closed @#!@#@^. We also ate like ROCK stars each night of the trip so I am totally at ease with my progress this last week. It could have been worse as I made up some ground the last half of the week with my nutrition. I actually cant wait to get it going again this week. I actually felt dissappointment at the fact that I couldn't get to the gym this week as opposed to the "Oh Well" that I seem to feel more often than not. I am looking for a very good week this week so we'll see how it goes.

My grandma surgery went well and they got the blockage out and she seems to be recovering very well. She's still at the hospital but I expect that will change in the next day or two. I plan to stop out and see her again over the lunch hour today, we'll see where everything stands then.

Did a little shopping for items for the Camper this weekend. I think we pretty much have it licked and are really CHOMPING at the bit to get our CAMP on.

Hit 5:30pm mass at St Leo last night. Fr. Larry Gillick was the Piest and he always has a way of making a good point and has a fun sense of humor. He's blind and part of his discussion last night talked about HEARING vs LISTENING. He talked of the conception that people who are blind tend to develope their other senses more to help offset the blindness. While he didnt know if his HEARING has developed any more or better because of his blindness he did know that he is a better LISTENER. BIG DIFFERENCE as we all hear a lot of things but when we stop and really LISTEN thats when we really HEAR.

We finally got over to see Travis and Sabra's new baby. Olivia Rose Mackey is a sweetheart, what a true blessing. We'd been sick and traveling so hadn't been there yet but I am glad to stop over and see her finally. Travis and Sabra, you are truely blessed.

Keep the Faith and Fight the Fat.

B

2008 - Week SEVEN Update

2008-02-24T14:53:00.002-06:00

Weight Today: 328.6
+/- Since last week: -5.4
Total Loss Since MAXIMUM DENSITY: 89.4 lbs
Total Loss This Year: 10 Lbs

So I am headed to Houston today on business so I weighed in a day early and KNEW I was having a good week. I am really happy with this past week. My nutrition was very good and I made it to the gym three times for both cardio and weight training. My motivation is getting better as the spring approaches, time to come out of hibernation mode...

Tomorrow my grandmother Liberty goes in for surgery. She is having a cyst or a pollyp removed from her intestine or colon (not exactly sure) and will have a lenghly recovery time. She's 89 years old and I can't recall her being in the hospital ever (my memory is not as sharp as it used to be) and has always been healthy as a horse. She's a strong willed woman and I am sure things will go okay but I know she's got to be pretty nervous. I've tried to reach her and my dad a couple of times today to visit a bit but no luck, so we'll try again later. Please send prayers for her successful surgery and recovery as well as prayers for the doctors and surgeons who will be working on her.

We picked up our new Travel Trailer on Saturday and we are all really pumped to get out and do some camping this year. We are looking to make a trip to the Black Hills as a big trip and many, many small trips throughout the season. We got a 30ft. grey wolf with a slide out so we are really STOKED. No more primitave camping for us... :-)

I am headed to the airport now, we'll report in again later. Wish me luck in the nutrition phase of my plan as its always harder when your on the road to eat like you should. One thing though is that I plan to work out each night while I am down there. No going out and partying since I gave up drinking for LENT...

Fight the Fat and Keep the Faith...

B

2008 - Week SIX Update

2008-02-19T10:13:00.002-06:00

Today: 334.0

Just a quick note to let you know how the week went, we'll post more when I have more time.

Headed the right direction and thats really what I want to see each and every week. I did a pretty good job with nutrition last week but TERRIBLE working out, as a matter of fact I only did one cardio work out last week and nothing else.

We're all still fighting the CRUD and that makes it even harder to motivate BUT none the less. Alyssa is home today sick and had a fever all weekend.

Since I gave up drinking for Lent I haven't missed it, maybe there is still hope for me yet. :-)

Fight the Fat and Keep the Faith

B

2008 Week 6 - Mid Week Update

2008-02-14T08:37:00.002-06:00

As far as my weight goes I think I am finally turning the corner and expect a good week this week. I've got a few things ironed out and we'll see where we are on Monday...

Fight the Fat and Keep the Faith

B

Power of the Word

2008-02-14T08:22:00.003-06:00

I hadn't been to Boys Town lunch time mass for probaby over 6 months at least. There was a time that I was going there pretty regularly and I really miss the service and the setting. I added more mass as a Lenten promise but I plan to continue on after Lent and go often during the week.

It's really a special place and a very, VERY spiritual setting. You can feel the spirit as you walk up to the doors of this church. You cant help leaving with a little extra bounce in your step and going on Wednesdays is a great way to break up the week and usually by Wednesday I could use a boost from the Holy Spirit.

One thing that makes it more special is when MSGR. Dunne presides over the mass. This man is the most genuine and holy man I know. His passion and pure LOVE for the Lord is clearly evident EVERY time he does the mass (actually every time you hear him speak or visit with him). Many times he's brought to near tears as he does the Eucharist. I've heard many of my Catholic bretheren call him a "Living Saint" and I definately can't argue that position. Its a GREAT blessing to hear him and just to be in his presence. I had the opportunity to work a CEC weekend where he was the spiritual coordinator a few years ago and it was as AWESOME of an experience as I've ever had. (more on cec down the line). As he was speaking I knew I was supposed to be at this particular mass at this particular time. He talked about "Mastering our Sins and Conquering our Pride". WOW, that hit me right in the MOUTH, he was speaking DIRECTLY to me. I'm totally clear now on a few things that I need to work on to become a more spiritual person and I'm so very glad he made it clear to me. Sometimes my "human-ness" gets in the way and makes things a little cloudy. If you ever get the opportunity to go to mass at Boys Town and hear MSGR. Dunne you'll not forget it. He's old now and has been in poor health off and on the past few years but I think GOD still has a plan for him and thats to speak to people like me.

Keep the Faith...

B

2008 - Week FIVE Summary

2008-02-11T09:26:00.000-06:00

Today - 335.2 LBS

You know sometimes you bang your head against the wall and it actually hurts. Now, I know this isn't easy and I know I wont be perfect in my quest BUT I think sometimes your body simply gives you the finger and says it will be "MY WAY" not your way. Last week I did cardio twice to the tune of 50 minutes and 12 miles, I had 100 calories LESS a day on the average and 16 Grams of FAT less a day on the average but yet STILL managed to gain a half a pound. I swear that scale has a mind of its own. I felt I spread my eating over 5 different periods of the day and expected a little reward for my "better than LATE" focus. 2200 calories a day was my count this week as comparted to 2300 last week. According to everything I have ever read a guy my size should be able to lose on that amount of calories simply by the amount of calories a day it take to "RUN my body".

I've take some time and looked at some history and it appears to me that my water intake is down and my caffine intake is UP. SO, this week we'll go with decaf and more water. We'll also try REAL hard to make a day 2000 calories and 4 big cardio workouts and go from there.

I think my body LIKES where it is right now. This is basically where I was from 1986 to 1996 roughly so maybe this is what they call a "Set Point" which means harder work and MORE focus to crash through this darn thing. Like I've said before my goal has never been to be a 200 LB man, hell I'd look like BLADE at my height but I'd sure like to maintain myself in the 265 - 270 lb area.

PS: NO pancakes this week either...

Keep the Faith and Fight the FAT.

B

Who's healthier???

2008-02-08T08:42:00.000-06:00

I got this email from Bob today and thought I'd share;

For those of you who watch what you eat, here's the final word on nutrition and health. It's a relief to know the truth after all those conflicting nutritional studies.

1. The Japanese eat very little fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
2. The Mexicans eat a lot of fat and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
3. The Chinese drink very little red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
4. The Italians drink a lot of red wine and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.
5. The Germans drink a lot of beers and eat lots of sausages and fats and suffer fewer heart attacks than Americans.

CONCLUSION - Eat and drink what you like. Speaking English is apparently what kills you.

:-) - B

ASH Wednesday

2008-02-06T09:59:00.000-06:00

As this LENTEN season kicks off I can't help but reflect on where I am spiritually right now. The last several years has been a roller coaster spiritually, the CEC weekend and my conversion, my mom passing, various illnesses and deaths, temptations and general acceptance of my humanity. I can honestly say I am not where I wish I was at this point in time but I am in a much better place than I could have imagined even 10 years ago. I'll expand on those items in later posts.

The verse kicking off the Lenten section of http://www.eten.com/ reads as follows. "Rend your hearts, not your garments, and return to the Lord, your God. (Joel 2:13)".

That verse really hits home with me, "return to the LORD" is something I always think I am striving for but in retrospect sometimes it comes off as LIP SERVICE with good intentions. (You know what they say about that ROAD and good intentions....) I NEED to strive to have a better spiritual life and ALL else will fall in place behind that. Common sense tells me this but sometimes its easier to make excuses and blame it on distractions. DONT GET ME WRONG HERE, just because you go to church more than the next guy or read the bible more than the next guy DOESNT make you a better Christian, BUT it does give you the OPPORTUNITY to become more SPIRITUALLY FIT. It all boils down to your heart and your relationship with JESUS.

Lent is always a SOLUMN time and sometimes that gives me concern. You see, if it weren't for the LORD being crucified and rising from the dead for our SALVATION we'd be doomed. In a way shouldn't it be a celebration of THANKS? More on that down the line...

In the tradition of sacrafice I am giving up DRINKING for Lent, attending at least one extra mass during the week and will read the Gospels. (Going to be a bit more of a challenge compared to my usual sacrafice of giving up RAP music and spinich :-) )

I've rambled enought for now. May you Lenten season be all that you need it to be.

B

Great Cardio Workout

2008-02-06T09:51:00.000-06:00

So, I went to the gym at our office yesterday afternoon a little hesitant of what I may realize. When I initially started this battle with the bulge back on January 8th of 07 I clearly remember hitting the bike in the gym here and having a terrible time getting 5 minutes in at a 10 MPH pace. My stamina eventually increased and was getting pretty good at it. Including our 20 plus mile rides on the trails this summer.

I ONLY hoped I hadn't slipped too far since I really had not done much of any structured working out since september. I was plesently surprised and happy with what I was able to do. I did 22 minutes at a 15 MPH pace and probably could have gone another 8 minutes SO, although I slipped some I feel great that I wont have to come all the way back. YEA, go team...

We'll do it again this afternoon.