July's Inspiration Interview

Hello Dancing 4 Cheeseburger Lovers, 

I'm happy to announce that once a month I'm going to do an inspirational interview. I hope this will not only motivate me to get off my Buns and move my body! But you too! All of these people have lost over 20lbs and have changed their lives. A lot of them are still on their Journey to Health, and feel as though they are not "finished" yet. But they are so inspirational and motivating. If you would like to tell your story on my blog please message me, and I'll send you the interview! Thanks!

• Please meet Kate
• How much have you lost? Almost 50lbs (and Sticking)
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• When did you start your health journey? My Journey started August of 2014 (almost a year ago)
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• Motivation to why you started? I was tired of the depression and weight gain cycle, mixed in with emotional eating. I was full of self hate and shame for letting myself get to the point I was at, but I couldn't seem to stop eating the pain. I eventually got so fed up with how frustrated and angry I was at myself, that I made contact with a running clinic and signed on that same day.
• 
  
• What is your start, current and goal Size? My starting weight was 260 lbs. and was about a size 20(ish). My current weight is 210 lbs. and a size 14. My goal size is a size 10 and whatever weight gets me there.
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• What has changed the most in your life? Definitely my self confidence. I am continuing to accomplish something that has battled me FOR YEARS. My depression is so much better than what it was last year and I feel like I can now take on challenges I never thought possible (even when I was a skinny smoker!).
• Goal lbs lost? The minute the first number on the scale has a ONE, I will probably go streaking. Seriously. And when I get arrested, I will have the biggest and most satisfied smile on my face. Anything under 200 lbs. was always my initial goal, but my dream would be 175lbs.
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• Is there a finish line date? I really feel like this has become a life change for me, so I don't even want to think of a finish.
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• Did you have any challenges? Now that I am in a plateau, I am finding it challenging to stay motivated and upbeat when the numbers on the scale aren't moving. I think my next challenge is changing up my routine. I still believe that my biggest challenge is myself - the self doubt, the "poor me" days, the guilt of taking so much "me time".
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• What is your new diet/exercise routine? I joined a Learn to Run clinic in August and haven't looked back. I am now training for a half marathon for September. I try to eat a healthy breakfast and lunch and just less of whatever I would eat at supper.
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• What has been the best change? My inner strength and confidence, for sure. I have never been one to be quiet about things and continuing to be vocal about the work keeps me accountable and has seemed to help others stay accountable or challenge themselves. Having a feeling that maybe I am helping others and inspire others is the greatest self esteem boost I could have ever thought possible!

• 

  Kate's Before

  
  

  

  Kate's Amazing After (During) 
  
  
  

  My aunt Shawna Posted this yesterday, and I thought it was totally appropriate for my blog! Thanks for the laugh and the great picture Shawna. 

  
  

  

  
  

  Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers,
  
  Weight Loss: 
  Weeks Loss: -3.2 lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 29)
  Total Loss: -16.7 lbs (Since May 28) 
  Goal: -50 lbs (By March 5, 2016)
  *Only -33.3 lbs to go*
  
  Inches Loss: 
  Bust: -3 inches
  Waist: -2 inches
  Hips: -4 inches 
  Total Inches Loss: -9 inches

Monday Fun-day Doing the Happy Dance!

Hi Cheeseburger Connoisseurs,

OH MY LANTA! I couldn't wait to write this morning! I'm vibrating from my weigh in. I was nervous because I didn't work out quite as much as I normally do. (because of a small muscle pull) But i'm happy to say I've lost 3.2lbs!!!! 16.7 pounds in 4 weeks! (starting week 5 today!) I couldn't believe it, I weighed myself three times this morning. I kept thinking that can't be right! Doing a happy dance-I get new LULU's! I had a secret goal of 15lbs by the end of June! I've done it! It feels amazing. I'm re-motivated to eat clean and work out! LOVING this Journey! Kicking buns and taking names! 

 Incentive List: 
5lbs: New Sneakers (Mine are from 2008 - that should tell you how much exercise I was doing)
10lbs: Fun Work out top
15lbs:  LuLu Lemon Pants
20lbs: Hair done, somewhere expensive (Color and everything - maybe bowtique? I'll take suggestions) 
25lbs: Food Processor
30lbs: Jeans (don't currently own a pair)
35lbs: All new Bras/Underwear
40lbs: Tattoo
45lbs: Bathing Suit
50lbs: Trip to Mexico
60lbs: New Wardrobe

Here is week one compared to week four: 

Week ONE and Week FOUR

First Picture from June 8 - Second Picture from June 29

Last night for supper I made the most delicious Turkey Burgers! Garlic, Olive Oil, Chili Powder, 1 Egg and Sirachi Hot Sauce in the turkey burger, topped with Japalenos, Spinach, Guacamole and tomatoes! (no bun) WOW they were good. Penelope (my daughter) Loved them too; although she had cheese, ketchup and a bun! 

Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers,

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -3.2 lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 29)
Total Loss: -16.7 lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50 lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -33.3 lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -3 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -4 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -9 inches

Work outs & Meals

Hello Cheeseburger Lovers,

I'm sad to say I pulled a small muscle in my lower abdominal so I have to be very careful for the next few days. In saying that my Kettle Bell Work out with Carrigan yesterday was amazing. (Jared, I kicked your butt.) Didn't know I'd like Kettle Bell I did the whole work out in 45 mins. 11 exercises 10 reps and 4 sets of each!! I even used the 15lbs kettle bell. PUMPED - Getting Jacked! 

My Work outs this week looked like this:

Monday: Hike (An hour and a half)  

Tuesday: OFF

Wednesday: Kettle Bell/Dance Class

Thursday: Spin

Friday: More Core Circut

Saturday: Run (4km)

Sunday: OFF 

I'm dying no zumba this week! My lovely Monday night classes are over! If you know of an amazing drop in zumba classes in Dartmouth, I would love to add it to my rotation. 

My Meals this week looked like this: 

Monday: 

Breakfast: tea, apple 

Snack: Plum 

Lunch: Chicken wrap from Subway (no cheese)

Supper: Salmon, Cauliflower, Coleslaw 

Tuesday: 

Breakfast: Sausage, Bacon, Omelette with Vegetables & Hot Sauce (no cheese)  

Snack: Blueberrys

Lunch: Spinach Salad with Craisins, Almonds, Chicken, honey mustard vinaigrette

Supper: Yellow Curry and Beef Stirfry

Bok Choy Salad by Eat Smart

Wednesday: 

Breakfast: Bowl of raw baby carrots, tea

Snack: Cherries

Lunch: Yellow Curry and Beef Stirfry

Supper: Salad with Avacado, Salsa, Guacamole and Balsamic Dressing

Thursday: 

Breakfast: Tea on Ice

Snack: Apple

Lunch: Bok Choy Salad with Peanuts and Ginger Asian Dressing

Supper: Burrito

Friday: 

Breakfast: YouthBerry Tea

Snack: Strawberrys 

Lunch: Summer Salad with dried pineapple, Almonds and Ginger Asian Dressing

Supper: CHEAT MEAL (Haven't decided yet) 

Dancing my buns off 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -1.5lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 22)
Total Loss: -13.5lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -36.5lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -3 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -3 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -8inches

Work Retreat and Interview

Hello Cheeseburger loving Friends,

I haven't been to the gym in two whole days and it feels so weird! Funny how your habits change so quickly. I was on a work retreat, we did go for a huge hike on Monday so I did get some exercise! I'll have to add something to my week end. 

I honestly am so proud of myself, there were soo soo many food temptations! But I did it! I made it through all of the food temptations, I had salmon, cauliflower, coleslaw, salad, eggs and fruit! Even though there was french fries, chips, popcorn, alcohol! I weighed myself this morning (I know, I know) But I wanted to see if I had a gain? NO GAIN!!!!! (Oh My LANTA I did it!) Now back to my "new" normal.  I forgot to mention in my quick Monday post, I've lost another inch off my Bust!! YIPPIE!!! (that's the only thing I can see in the pictures - my chest is much higher!) 

I wanted to take a second and just tell everyone that the focus of this journey is not weight! I would like to be just be a healthy size! (my size goal is a size 8) what ever that weight is, is fine by me! I put weight goals in because it's easier to measure. But I really and truly just want to be a healthier size! 

A shout out to my friend Jen, I did a little interview with her! (She was so gracious to share her Journey to Health with me!) 

How much have you lost? Lost a total of 40lbs!

When did you start your health journey? About a year ago.

Motivation to why you started? Was sick of feeling sick, and tired of feeling tired. Wanted to be around for Lilah (her beautiful daughter) 

What is your start, current and goal Size? Start size: 18 Current Size: 10 Goal Size: 8

What has changed the most in your life? My Routine (Eating breakfast, no Drive thru's etc.) and feeling a lot less sluggish. I have more energy.

Goal lbs lost? My goal is to lose 50-60lbs.

Is there a finish line date? No finish line date because I don't want to feel like i've failed if not reached. Just so long as it maintained/improved on a constant and my weight isn't creeping back up.

Jen's Before Picture 

(She said she didn't have many because she used to avoid having her picture taken!) 

Jen's Beautiful After (or current photo)

If anyone else would like to be interviewed for my Blog, I would love to share your journey too! 

Dancing my buns off 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -1.5lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 22)
Total Loss: -13.5lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -36.5lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -3 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -3 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -8inches

Leopard Dress

Haven't worn this dress in a YEAR! It's a little tight, but fits! I can't believe I'm wearing this today! It used to be my favorite dress! I'm appreciative of this moment but I'm dying for the moment it's too big! (I'll post me in it then too!) I was a tight size 16 before I started this Journey and am now officially a size 14. I've gone down one size in 3 weeks! My ultimate goal is to be a size 6/8! I haven't seen size 6/8, since my first year of University! (But I can get there!) (Thanks for the picture Megan!) 

Today's my last post this week! Wish me luck for Monday! (my guess is 2lbs) I'll post my weight loss and pictures! You know what's ironic, I started this Journey loving Cheeseburgers & hating to say goodbye to them, but I haven't had one since I started. (no craving for them what's so ever! WEIRD) 

Dancing my buns off 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -2.4lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 15)
Total Loss: -12lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -38lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -3 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -7inches

Celebrities & Squats

Hello Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers Lovers,

Can I just say I feel like my arms are going to fall off my body and my abs were ripped in two!! Two arm days this week! I think that was a little too much, but i'm starting to get my first muscle and surprisingly it's in my arms!!!

My squat Challenge is doing well! I'm now up to 70 squats a day on top of my regular work outs!

I want a bum like this: (who doesn't)

My office is a really fun place to work, the other day, we were choosing what celebrity bodies we wanted! (but that were actually attainable) I want to be either Christina Hendricks or Kim Kardashian! (I still want to be curvy - just fit and fabulous!) So I looked them up online Kim is 5'2 and a 130lbs, Christina is 5'7 and a 150lbs! 

Here are my girls:

Dancing my buns off 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -2.4lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 15)
Total Loss: -12lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -38lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -3 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -7inches

It's Monday... It's Monday!

Hello Cheeseburger Lovers,

I hope you had a wonderful week end! I'm proud to say, I took my daughter swimming this week end. YES, in a bathing suit! (I was still a nervous wreck - But I did it!) She was so excited, that mommy was taking her swimming (normally daddy does!) Now imagine, I would have missed out on her last swimming class of her first badge!! I was so happy!  I have a long journey ahead of me, but even loosing this little bit of weight helped me to do something I wouldn't have done before!

I'm happy to announce my loss for this week was -2.4lbs! For a grande total loss of, -12lbs in three weeks! Not too shabby! My inches are also doing well, I've loss another inch off my waist and an inch off my hips!

A big shout out to Mr. Reg Duffy, for running those extra laps at Friday's workout! You motivated me to get through it and I did!! Even though I couldn't move on Saturday haha! I'll see you this Friday - Not intimated, motivated! Friday was so insane! Not only did we run the track but we carried crazy heavy weights, squats, push ups and army crawled under benches! It was NUTS!! (the most sore I have been after a work out so far) My muscles were just shaking! (I kind of loved it!)

I made the most delicious Quinoa Salad on the week end, (I know your thinking that's an oxy moron having quinoa and delicious in the same sentence - three weeks ago I would have agreed with you!)

Here's the recipe:

1 cup dry quinoa
2 cups chicken broth
1 can black beans
1 can corn
1/2 orange bell pepper
a few chopped grape tomato
1/2 cup of red onion
1 cup fresh cilantro
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
juice of 1 large lime
pepper
garlic powder (to taste)
chili powder (to taste)


Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -2.4lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 15)
Total Loss: -12lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only -38lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2 inches
Waist: -2 inches
Hips: -3 inches 
Total Inches Loss: -7inches

Last Night, Today, Tomorrow BUT can't wait for Monday

Today is a day for Today,

My first BBQ of the Summer was last night, and I did really well. I had Salad!!!! (and didn't feel like I needed the Burgers or the Sausage or anything else!) Loving Life! Seriously... I feel like a totally different person. 

It's weird, even though I can feel myself getting smaller - I'm having a "I feel fat day" I think no matter what size you are, everyone has these days. Maybe it's because I ate my cheat meal yesterday and I still have a little bit of guilt. It's weird that I feel bad about my cheat meal when three weeks ago, I ate every meal like my cheat meal! It's so amazing how your mind can change along with your body!! I want the healthy meals, the salad, chicken, quinoa, and vegetables! 

I'm trying a new class today called, More Core. It's an abdominal circuit - I'm really nervous, people at the gym even say it's really hard!! Terrified!!!  Doing it!!

Can't wait to post on Monday! The anticipation is killing me! I'll include pictures too! Thank you again everyone for following me on this terrifying journey. I'll see you on Monday.

Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -3.6lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 8)
Total Loss: -9.6lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only 40.4lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2inches
Waist: -1inch
Hips: -2inches 
Total Inches Loss: -5inches

Jumping & Spinning

Hello Fellow Cheeseburger Lovers,

It's a coworkers birthday lunch! She loves burgers! (As do I) So we are taking her to Krave Burger (So Delicious!) But I did well my friends, I had a Sweet Potato and Lentil Veggie Burger (No bun) and French Fries. But I stayed within my calorie intake today! And It will be my cheat meal for the week! Challenge Accepted, Attempted and Completed! I laugh in your face and am doing a happy dance!

Because of Yesterday's workout - I've learned two things.
1. Jumping is hard work - people make it look so easy
2. Jumping makes me pee (having a baby will do that to you)

We did an insane work out yesterday where you jump up on a box, jump over the box, Jump over the box with your hands on the box, jump and touch the wall and repeat 10 reps 5 times! Not to mention we did cardio first on the treadmill on a 12 incline!!

I kept telling my work out partner "bless your heart" because if I didn't say that, I probably would have punched her in the throat hahaha (not really) It was the most intense work out I've had so far! (There are a lot of days she can't come in July - I'm going to do this work out while she's away and then blow her away with it when she comes back -Be READY for that Carrigan!)

Today was also my first day doing Spin! I never was a biker, (I actually can't ride a regular bike!) but I have to find something for August because my Lunch time Zumba Class doesn't run in August. BOOOOOO! I actually super enjoyed the spin class (to my own surprise). Sending out some love to my coworkers for coming to Spin with me today, you're the best. Our office is going to be the best looking, healthiest department on campus. (Seriously!)

I honestly, don't know if I can wait till Monday to weigh myself! (I'm going to I promise!) My guess is -3lbs! Inches i'm not sure... I think I've lost some off my waist! I really wish I had done my legs and arms too. Kicking Butt and Taking Names!

Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers, 

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -3.6lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 8)
Total Loss: -9.6lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only 40.4lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2inches
Waist: -1inch
Hips: -2inches 
Total Inches Loss: -5inches

Bras and Cheeseburgers

Dear Dancing 4 Cheeseburger Friends,

Today is a good day! I've gone down a bra size!!! OMG only 15 days into my Health Journey and seeing results. I wont reveal the sizes as I am a lady. haha! BUT down a whole size!!! Band and Cup! That may be TMI for some people so I apologize haha!

I've spoke to a lot of people about this Journey. And am really taking all of your suggestions seriously.  I have decided to mix up my workout routine so my body doesn't get "used to" the routine I have been doing. I'm going to add a spin class to Thursday work outs and then a few weeks from now my goal is to start running. (maybe a slow jog at first!)

Next week's Workout Routine: 
Mon: Lunch Weights(Legs/Abs), Evening Zumba
Tues: Lunch Zumba
Wed: Lunch Weights(Arms/Abs) *Cheat Meal night*
Thur: Lunch Spin Class (New to the routine), Evening Zumba
Fri: Core Class(New to the routine)
Sat: Off
Sun: Off

I've also taken into consideration, of when i'm eating my cheat meal. I was eating it Friday or Saturday nights, which logically makes sense (the week end right!) Well I eat it when i'm not doing anything physical. So, i'm going to change it to Wednesday nights! That way it's right in the middle of my workout week, and i'll probably burn it off better!

My evening Zumba class ends in two more weeks. So i'm looking for another evening Zumba class in Dartmouth. If anyone knows of any great ones, please message me on facebook! I can't go without my Zumba!

Shout out to my very sweet and very pregnant friend Sue who joined me at Zumba on Monday! Thank you so much for coming! And thank you so much for not having the baby during Zumba! You're nuts and I love it!!!

Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers,

Weight Loss: 
Weeks Loss: -3.6lbs (Last weigh in Monday June 8)
Total Loss: -9.6lbs (Since May 28) 
Goal: -50lbs (By March 5, 2016)
*Only 44.4lbs to go*

Inches Loss: 
Bust: -2inches
Waist: -1inch
Hips: -2inches 
Total Inches Loss: -5inches

Never thought Monday would be my HAPPY day!

Hello Dancing 4 Cheeseburger Readers (I know your all dying to know),

It's the day I've been waiting all week for! (Never thought I would say that about a Monday)

OMG, I was so freaking close! I was yelling at the scale hahaha. I know -3.6lbs is still a wonderful thing... to lose that in a week! I'm proud of what I've done so far. -9.6lbs total loss! I'm HAPPY! 

I made a bet with my friend Ryan (Who is a personal trainer at Slim Gyms) That I would loss 4lbs by Monday his guess was -3.4lbs He was closer, so I owe him a work out! We'll Chat BUDDY! 

I thought I would add measurements to my blog, as I'm finding those are changing more drastically than my weight! In the side picture I really notice my chin!!! 

Here they are:

May 19: 45.39.49
June 4: 43.39.48
June 8: 43.38.47

Dancing my buns off 4 Cheeseburgers,

Weeks Total Loss: -3.6lbs 
Total Loss: -9.6 lbs 
Goal: -50lbs (March 5, 2016)
*Only 40.4lbs to GO*
(Next weigh in Monday June 15)

Numbness & Squat Challenge

Hello Friends,

I wanted to let you know about some health happenings, that I already feel changing! (So amazing!)

I used to wake up every morning with numb feet, so terrible that I could barley walk like a "normal" human. It's been 9 days into this Health Mission and the morning numbness is almost completely gone. I can't imagine how i'm going to feel after 25, 50, 100 days into this Health Journey.

I've also noticed my skin tightening and brightening! Which is probably from all the water and legumes i'm consuming! But i'm visibly noticing a difference.

I just joined a June squat challenge on top of my work outs. So every evening at home while I do the dishes, or watch tv - I do Squats. (Here is the Challenge-Join me if you want too!)

June 1 - 30 Squats           June 10 - 50 Squats             June 19 - 70 Squats         June 28 - 90 Squats    
June 2 - 30 Squats           June 11 - 50 Squats             June 20 - 70 Squats         June 29 - 100 Squats
June 3 - 30 Squats           June 12 - 50 Squats             June 21 - 80 Squats         June 30 - 100 Squats
June 4 - 30 Squats           June 13 - 60 Squats             June 22 - 80 Squats         June 31 - 100 Squats
June 5 - 40 Squats           June 14 - 60 Squats             June 23 - 80 Squats
June 6 - 40 Squats           June 15 - 60 Squats             June 24 - 80 Squats
June 7 - 40 Squats           June 16 - 60 Squats             June 25 - 90 Squats
June 8 - 40 Squats           June 17 - 70 Squats             June 26 - 90 Squats
June 9 - 50 Squats           June 18 - 70 Squats             June 27 - 90 Squats

You don't have to do them all at once, you just need to do that many during the day! 

Thank you for reading my Blog and Coming along with me in this crazy Journey!

Dancing 4 Cheeseburgers,

Total Loss -6lbs (next weigh in Monday June 8)
Goal -50lbs (by March 5, 2016) any more is just a bonus!

ps: I've earned my Sneakers on my incentives list! (getting them this week end - i'll put up a picture!) I'll let you know Monday if I get my fitbit!

My First

Hello to my new Blogging Family,

I want to hold myself accountable! I'm ready for this Journey - Let's Do This!

I've worked a lot on my internal beauty and feel as though i'm in a place where i'm happy, healthy and comfortable with who I am. Although, my body doesn't match my inside happiness. It looks more like a frumpy potato sack of sadness. I would like to be fit not frumpy! I want my OUTSIDES to match my INSIDES.

I have a wonderful husband who is beyond handsome, fit, funny and smart! I would like to not be the "sweet wife" getting comments like, "oh now I know what he see's in you" I want to be the sweet and hot wife! haha! (Kidding - kind of) I want to be able to go running with him or anything physically active. Right now I feel as though I can't do that. (I hate being limited by my weight)

I'm on a journey to not get skinny but to get healthy! I have a two year old daughter, and I don't want to not be able to do something with her because of my own insecurities or weight issues. I want to live life with her not beside her!

I'm giving in to Health - I'm giving in to Fitness - I'm giving in to External Happiness - I'm giving in!

Starting with Lunch time workouts and ZUMBA!

Dancing for Cheeseburgers.
Weight loss: 0lbs
Loss Goal: 50lbs



-Pictures coming soon