tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61631346339208955862024-03-12T19:49:41.371-07:00Healthy Promise - My Journey to Fitness“Plant seeds of expectation in your mind; cultivate thoughts that anticipate achievement. Believe in yourself as being capable of overcoming all obstacles and weaknesses.” Norman Vincent Peale
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My journey of promise to good health and fitness for years to come! Though the road may not be easy at times, the reward is tremendous...and that is...a HEALTHY WAY OF LIVING!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.comBlogger49125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-69512027505008649412010-06-25T22:08:00.000-07:002010-06-28T17:09:39.518-07:00Ease-Out: Day 1 And 2<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPeXY92DdDmWyg74bb73_3Im8pV5F20KKOf3cV3vXu_-_gRWma9s-ceYdKhPgey6k65Sxd3kzcrgGEIDFLFc6cKjTdbSTQLYSu2w5C-tPXjl0i-mPcafT19KuQwqFGPHKRMLzQiD9x4k/s1600/OJ+Day.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidPeXY92DdDmWyg74bb73_3Im8pV5F20KKOf3cV3vXu_-_gRWma9s-ceYdKhPgey6k65Sxd3kzcrgGEIDFLFc6cKjTdbSTQLYSu2w5C-tPXjl0i-mPcafT19KuQwqFGPHKRMLzQiD9x4k/s320/OJ+Day.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487980385093764018" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hi everyone...back to tell you how my ease-out period went!!! Day 1 was Orange Juice Day...check out the picture above of me on Day 1 of Ease-Out from detox (Orange Juice Day)...wearing the color orange to celebrate the day...LOL!!! I consumed orange juice the entire day.<br /><br />On Day 2, I consumed orange juice in the morning. For lunch, I ate Roasted Red Peppers and Clam Bisque soup that was absolutely delicious!!! In the evening, I ate an avocado chopped into bite sized pieces sprinkled with a little sea salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. I continued to drink the orange juice.<br /><br />And, guess what??? I lost another pound!!! So, that makes 12 pounds lost so far!!!<br /><br /><br />WELL...THE EASE-OUT PERIOD WAS NOT SO BAD!!! I'LL HAVE MORE TO SHARE TOMORROW WHEN I'M ABLE TO EAT MORE SOLID FOOD...THAT'S WHERE THE CHALLENGE COMES INTO PLAY...LOL!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-10848715430669680012010-06-23T20:13:00.000-07:002010-06-23T21:23:57.347-07:00Day 10 Of Detox...My Detox Is Over...I Did It!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfXSHE7F_QYhs2kavJxqyhWnJ097IG_XHJ8wt3GF-sidXhyriUVVYzx8t1iK5h6kXTKIixEWyrHVjP7MAGLwq2YXFy8ySh9srvUvJR5gh25i5UCT7nRweH6u1Z0ot899AcJBXqtq9vRg/s1600/Cayenne_peppers_lg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 227px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfXSHE7F_QYhs2kavJxqyhWnJ097IG_XHJ8wt3GF-sidXhyriUVVYzx8t1iK5h6kXTKIixEWyrHVjP7MAGLwq2YXFy8ySh9srvUvJR5gh25i5UCT7nRweH6u1Z0ot899AcJBXqtq9vRg/s320/Cayenne_peppers_lg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486173322813480562" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hi everyone!!! Day 10 of my detox is over!!! I did it!!! I set a goal for myself, I stuck through it, and I completed it!!! MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!! I'm so proud of myself and I feel absolutely GREAT!!! My skin and nails look great! No swollen ankles!!! I just feel HEALTHY...looking forward to starting a healthy way of eating, once again, and sticking with it this time...that's another one of my goals!!!<br /><br />Ok..I know many of you are anxious to know how many pounds I lost during the detox.<br /><br /><br />DRUM ROLL PLEASE!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br /><br />I lost 11 pounds total during the 10 day detox...that averages about 1 pound a day!!! YAY...what a way to jump start my weight loss and fitness journey this second time around!!!<br /><br /><br />My body is not quite ready to dive into my new, healthy way of eating just yet. I have to go through an Ease-Out period for 2 days. If you immediately start eating solid foods after the detox, you risk constipation and stomach cramps. The first day (tomorrow) will involve consuming orange juice and broth. The second day (Friday), I will still consume orange juice, but I can start eating light soups and/or stews. Once the Ease-Out is completed, I will begin my new, healthy way of eating!<br /><br />I guess you're wondering why I have the photo of cayenne pepper displayed. Well...it is for a very good reason! I plan to incorporate cayenne pepper into my daily diet.<br /><br />Cayenne pepper can help boost your metabolism.<br /><br /> * Cayenne Pepper Moves blood. Hence it increases your circulation. This herb moves blood faster than any other herb out there (maybe even faster then most fat burners).<br /> * This herb has the ability to speed up circulation within seconds of ingesting it.<br /> * It has the ability to stimulate and accelerate your metabolism which in turn provides energy and weight loss. <br /><br />I will more than likely consume the cayenne pepper by adding it to the lemon water I drink...for 8 ounces of lemon water add 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. No maple syrup will be added as in the case of the lemon cayenne detox drink. Maple syrup was added for the detox drink to act as food and a source of energy during detoxification. I will be eating food, therefore, there is no need for the maple syrup. I'm not much of a water drinker, so drinking lemon water spiced with a little cayenne pepper will help me with my water consumption. You may opt to take cayenne pepper capsules twice a day instead.<br /><br /><br />I DID IT!!! WOW...ON TO THE EASE-OUT PERIOD!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-35671730241253450362010-06-22T20:04:00.000-07:002010-06-22T20:32:36.936-07:00Day 9 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yt07TPuvQZL1Lyf_UsLw7cCHmAqnZLRULafv8-nInVEDOajUGaxXRry5OhzbHiKs7yujgKdrd9oJbxuRVW5W90bD1sZUCc5nYOpk3x_46XSahqWxakKHmqMRfbz8k7ulZyjgXPCYTkU/s1600/PESCO.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 209px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6yt07TPuvQZL1Lyf_UsLw7cCHmAqnZLRULafv8-nInVEDOajUGaxXRry5OhzbHiKs7yujgKdrd9oJbxuRVW5W90bD1sZUCc5nYOpk3x_46XSahqWxakKHmqMRfbz8k7ulZyjgXPCYTkU/s320/PESCO.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485806868012407618" /></a><br /><br /><br />YAY...Day 9 of my detox is completed...1 more day to go!!! I spent the majority of the evening researching more on the pescetarian diet and finding some tasty pescetarian and vegetarian recipes. I caught my mouth watering looking at all of the pictures of the various dishes...LOL.<br /><br />I ran across an interesting article concerning starting a pescetarian diet. I found the article helpful to, not only me, but anyone considering a pescetarian diet! The article was as follows:<br /><br /> <br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;"> 10 Ways To Become A Successful Pescetarian</span><br /><br />Posted Thu, 08/20/2009 - 11:35am by Liora Hess on HealthyTheory.com<br /><br /><br />So you're convinced of the benefits of excluding all meat other than seafood from your diet but not quite sure where to begin? Here are some tips to help make your transition to pescetarianism a healthy and enjoyable one.<br /><br />1. Have an adventurous spirit.<br /><br />Contrary to popular belief, vegetarians and pescetarians have seemingly endless menu choices. Determine that you're going to be open to trying any food at least once. You're about to embark on a journey that will have you trying many new foods and recipes and discovering new things. Who knows where this path may lead? Go ahead and let yourself get excited!<br /><br />2. Keep a journal.<br /><br />What are your reasons for becoming a pescetarian? It's a good idea to start your journal by writing these out. Your list will be handy to refer to if you find your resolve waning. Also consider using your journal to record things you've tried, what you like and dislike, websites and cookbooks you've discovered, and more.<br /><br />3. Ease into it.<br /><br />While some have gone "cold turkey" on all meat but seafood, you may find it helpful to try to slowly reduce the meat you're eating. Perhaps eliminate red meat from your diet first. You could also designate a day of the week as vegetarian or seafood day, and then gradually increase the number of days you're eating no other meat.<br /><br />4. Educate yourself.<br /><br />Learn when various fruits and vegetables are in season so they will be at the height of their flavor as well as cost-effective. Read about nutrition for vegetarians and pescetarians to ensure you're consuming a balanced diet.<br /><br />5. Try the meat substitutes.<br /><br />There are now a myriad of great tasting faux meats available, from corn dogs and ground "beef" to "chicken" patties and barbecue "ribs." Soy is often a main ingredient in these foods and can be an excellent source of protein. If you're not expecting meat substitutes to taste exactly like real meat, you'll probably be more pleased with them. Faux meats are usually quite heavily processed, so not ideal for using as the basis of your diet, but they can help you transition to becoming a pescetarian. Some popular brands of meat substitutes are MorningStar, Boca, and Gardenburger.<br /><br />6. Get some resources.<br /><br />From educational sites to recipes databases, online resources for pescetarians abound. Vegetarian magazines include Vegetarian Times and Vegetarian Journal. An excellent line of cookbooks that include some seafood recipes are the Moosewood cookbooks. Experimenting with vegetarian meals that includes fish rather than a fish-based menu will also free you to try the many delicious vegetarian options available.<br /><br />7. Grow some food.<br /><br />Your recipes will taste better if they're made with fresh ingredients, and what could be fresher than a beautiful tomato just picked from your organic garden? Concerned about space? Nearly anyone can create a container garden on a porch or deck. Even without a porch or deck, you can grow some organic herbs on a windowsill. For more on container gardens, see ContainerGardeningTips.com and Vegetable Gardening in Containers.<br /><br />8. Join a club.<br /><br />Talking with other pescetarians and vegetarians will give you support. Search online for clubs, societies, and other organizations of like-minded individuals. Getting together with others face-to-face has its benefits, too. A popular site for local groups is Meetup.com. If you can't find a local group, consider starting your own. Undoubtedly others will want to join.<br /><br />9. Visit local vegetarian- and pescetarian-friendly restaurants.<br /><br />Search the Internet for local vegetarian or vegan restaurants, but also try pescetarian/vegetarian dishes at restaurants that also serve meat. Keeping a record of what places you've tried and the foods you've sampled at each will help make your journal a wonderful resource for you to refer to. HappyCow, Vegetarian-Restaurants.net, and and VegDining.com are all sites that you can use to search for vegetarian-friendly restaurants in your area.<br /><br />10. Keep trying new things.<br /><br />Any diet consisting of the same recipes is going to get boring. Make a commitment to yourself that you'll try a new recipe or a new food every now and then to keep things fresh. Flexibility is key when making any lifestyle change, and this is particularly true when changing your diet.<br /><br />Concerned about the mercury content in fish? Stay tuned for more information on how to select the best fish for your health.<br /><br /><br />WELL DAY 9 IS OVER...ON TO THE LAST DAY OF MY DETOX...DAY 10!!! STAY TUNED FOR RESULTS ON HOW MUCH WEIGHT WAS LOST DURING THIS 10 DAY DETOX!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-58186023081272646852010-06-21T20:12:00.000-07:002010-06-21T21:14:16.768-07:00Day 7 & 8 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNyEdJ1DHuwM772-b6TGxrk4yONUF-rzCsPdr0KBPKh_kfJbE2X593Ekcr1tSyQyGyIWL-ooiSsjxfbg9nhyphenhyphenQqkFJr6ZkZvLS-hg-jXG6acIt3U9pnL7WGPqzYJwN2Nn_6Qb9tqS6Qms/s1600/fish.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 319px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyNyEdJ1DHuwM772-b6TGxrk4yONUF-rzCsPdr0KBPKh_kfJbE2X593Ekcr1tSyQyGyIWL-ooiSsjxfbg9nhyphenhyphenQqkFJr6ZkZvLS-hg-jXG6acIt3U9pnL7WGPqzYJwN2Nn_6Qb9tqS6Qms/s320/fish.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5485446431298151698" /></a><br /><br />Hi everyone!!! I have no new news to report. I'm still experiencing the energy, glowing skin, sense of well-being, etc. I am now finishing up Day 8 of the detox and feeling absolutely GREAT!!! I have 2 more days to go, then I'm finished...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED!!!<br /><br />I visited Trader Joe's today and purchased some good, healthy food to eat once I finish the detox. Upon completion of the detox, I will go through an ease-out period for about 2 days, at which time, I will only consume orange juice the first day. During the second day, I will introduce light foods into my diet like soups...maybe a few veggies and fruits. After the second day of the ease-out period, I will be able to start my diet of choice---a pescetarian diet.<br /><br />With the pescetarian diet, I will be sure to monitor the fish I eat. Some fish have high levels of mercury. I've done my research and created a list of fish safe to eat and a list of fish to avoid. I plan on consuming fish no more than 3 days a week.<br /><br />WELL...I'M ALMOST TO THE FINISH LINE...BRING ON DAY 9!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-89939341830811204352010-06-19T21:02:00.000-07:002010-06-19T21:22:04.452-07:00Day 6 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zkXJk0sdDATefwdhKUUHxh_VnTwnNKuOwWF64-hCqwlIYo6gji-CrdmdyP2swIOdA9GZqruYZmeSeMbbDimNmQ0S-OHPtFlgXEFgqIhipPnchTBc7WGR-RiDBZxfBVM8stV2mb2lLMw/s1600/PescetarianDiet.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 205px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_zkXJk0sdDATefwdhKUUHxh_VnTwnNKuOwWF64-hCqwlIYo6gji-CrdmdyP2swIOdA9GZqruYZmeSeMbbDimNmQ0S-OHPtFlgXEFgqIhipPnchTBc7WGR-RiDBZxfBVM8stV2mb2lLMw/s320/PescetarianDiet.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484703426071612690" /></a><br /><br />Checking in!!! YAY...Day 6 of my detox is completed!!! Today seemed to be the easiest out of all the days! I was able to venture out to the natural food market and look at different types of food I will incorporate into my pescetarian diet, once I complete the detox.<br /><br />Yes...I've decided to become a pescetarian. For those of you who don't know what a pescetarian is, it is one whose diet includes fish but no meat. According to Wikipedia, a pescetarian is one whose "diet includes seafood and excludes other animals. In addition to fish or shellfish, a pescetarian diet typically includes some or all of vegetables, fruit, nuts, grains, beans, eggs and dairy".<br /><br />Well...no bowel movement today. I think this is a sign that all waste has been removed from my digestive system. I guess I will have to wait and see what happens tomorrow.<br /><br /><br />WELL, DAY 6 IS OVER...LOOKING FORWARD TO DAY 7!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-9644901090051205562010-06-18T22:35:00.000-07:002010-06-19T12:47:39.767-07:00Day 5 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiriF1amPRg7km-j6sADcpk91sU95SnrNFLvXt0Qyv6aGb6kqIJWyA-JQqdrsvF3_QhSZYN73DvgGQwyLiI7lYGGWBlIrSsPedwl5V4lEvldYieuy0z6qQ-ZPQrH3GN4fNd_uS-iAvCw/s1600/100_2870.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbiriF1amPRg7km-j6sADcpk91sU95SnrNFLvXt0Qyv6aGb6kqIJWyA-JQqdrsvF3_QhSZYN73DvgGQwyLiI7lYGGWBlIrSsPedwl5V4lEvldYieuy0z6qQ-ZPQrH3GN4fNd_uS-iAvCw/s320/100_2870.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484571113688570898" /></a><br /><br /><br />Hi everyone! I can't believe I'm halfway through this detox...Day 5 is completed!!! Today, I didn't have any drastic changes...still have glowing skin, energy, frequent bowel movements, no swollen ankles, and good sleep.<br /><br />The only other observation I will add is:<br /><br />~ Weightloss<br /><br />I'm physically seeing the weightloss now. I hopped on the scale this morning and was surprised at what the scale read. I won't tell you how much weight I've lost so far (I'll leave it until the end of this detox), but I will say the pounds lost are significant to me.<br /><br /><br />WELL...SO MUCH FOR DAY 5...LET'S GET DAY 6 ROCKIN'!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-17416863056319655322010-06-17T23:50:00.000-07:002010-06-19T12:26:07.322-07:00Day 4 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgrSaJDDoCeOVSe9FJB_e-051VfI34wZJmGMsPQLkh3DAkIRAEzelfiX7AtYeyKtlUhLVE17rDu_HZzmpjdK5HZiKZrAUNNoyI1pWeioqITf-TbSWMqMoWoxblBvTgGKNZI9d0DzCe-Y/s1600/100_2860.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 271px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJgrSaJDDoCeOVSe9FJB_e-051VfI34wZJmGMsPQLkh3DAkIRAEzelfiX7AtYeyKtlUhLVE17rDu_HZzmpjdK5HZiKZrAUNNoyI1pWeioqITf-TbSWMqMoWoxblBvTgGKNZI9d0DzCe-Y/s320/100_2860.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484007888912727970" /></a><br /><br />Checking in everyone!!! Day 4 is completed!!! I'm still feeling great...on top of the world!!! It seems as each day goes by...it gets easier. Besides yesterday's observations, I have two more to add:<br /><br />~ More frequent bowel movements - I'm finally starting to really get rid of the waste. The cleansing recommends drinking 32 ounces of sea salt water a day to get bowels active. I opted not to add sea salt to the cleansing. I just couldn't see myself drinking sea salt water, on a daily basis, for 10 days straight. So, I opted for the alternative----drinking herbal tea in the morning and before bed each night.<br /><br />~ Skin has a wonderful glow to it!!!<br /><br /><br />I'm SO glad I decided to try this detox...it is totally doing a GREAT job cleansing my body!!!<br /><br /><br />SO LONG DAY 4...ON TO DAY 5!!! I'm almost halfway there!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-21185544509320644062010-06-16T20:10:00.000-07:002010-06-16T20:16:27.654-07:00Day 3 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFykgpdeqqdiVL7UpF23MKjOKknGHuDVvU_g1rd9Ll8-1Jqd4ijfy_SaWSFAS1DEe3DSIB2bGKc0cfFYAqcSKgdvUm327e2cmAbYdpkq4cCNIfE8oxbOgKOQhVr0ViL87ASAlQ9JNCvG8/s1600/100_2856.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 312px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFykgpdeqqdiVL7UpF23MKjOKknGHuDVvU_g1rd9Ll8-1Jqd4ijfy_SaWSFAS1DEe3DSIB2bGKc0cfFYAqcSKgdvUm327e2cmAbYdpkq4cCNIfE8oxbOgKOQhVr0ViL87ASAlQ9JNCvG8/s320/100_2856.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483569605292783746" /></a><br /><br />Hi everyone!!! I'm on a roll...Day 3 is completed...YAY!!! I can't tell you how good I felt today. I haven't felt this good in a LONG time...LOL. I got through the day with no problems at all. <br /><br />Observations:<br /><br />~ Lots of energy<br />~ Skin starting to look nice and clear<br />~ Getting a good night's sleep (YAY...I need it!!!)<br />~ A sense of well-being (just plain feeling good...LOL)<br />~ No swollen ankles (AWESOME!!!)<br /><br /><br />When it comes to my problem with swollen ankles, it feels good to know I've discovered the cause...my diet. Today, I really had time to sit and meditate on the thought of having swollen ankles, off and on, for 6 months...NOT A GOOD FEELING!!! At times, it was scary not knowing what was causing the problem...could it be something serious?<br /><br />This detox is revealing so much to me about myself, my health, my diet, my lifestyle...and how much I want to have a healthier lifestyle. I want to live healthier, not only by what I put IN my body, but also by what I put ON my body.<br /><br />I never knew going natural in all aspects of your life could be this fun and exciting!!! Lord...I want to thank you for uncovering my eyes and revealing to me the path I should take with my health...thank you for guiding me along the way.<br /><br /><br />ON TO DAY 4....LOOKING FORWARD TO IT!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-25558966972329447602010-06-15T20:03:00.000-07:002010-06-15T20:07:14.056-07:00Day 2 Of Detox<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TIvcTCykxHh4mqG7TnVBmRuPA5K0gpqBO-PHFGaTw0ui5L8s7rPUpxZbQGCGkf42lb9PC3CBOS3aJNLYF77OUY-fGVvZ_iFnkpD7BA0p2cmxC5TT6xX02ZivVSKwzrlfcv6VoYRA4hI/s1600/100_2850.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 274px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6TIvcTCykxHh4mqG7TnVBmRuPA5K0gpqBO-PHFGaTw0ui5L8s7rPUpxZbQGCGkf42lb9PC3CBOS3aJNLYF77OUY-fGVvZ_iFnkpD7BA0p2cmxC5TT6xX02ZivVSKwzrlfcv6VoYRA4hI/s320/100_2850.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483190814577349554" /></a><br /><br /><br />Yes...Day 2 was a breeze to get through!!! Awesome!!! I had no hunger pains! I was able to be around people eating food without wanting food to eat. I consumed my 1.5 liters of lemon cayenne detox drink and sipped water for the rest of the day. If the remaining 8 days go like this, I will DEFINITELY get through this!<br /><br />Today, I had a tremendous amount of energy...LOTS of it!!! I felt great!!! It has been awhile since I've felt so energetic. I had been feeling tired and sluggish.<br /><br />A new observation was encountered today....a chemical metallic taste in my mouth. This is a sign of detoxification...YES!!! Toxins are being released from my body!!!<br /><br />Something else was observed today...NO SWOLLEN ANKLES...YAY!!! Ok...mentioning this leads into briefly explaining another reason for this detox.<br /><br />For the past 6 months, I have been experiencing swollen ankles quite frequently. First, I thought the swollen ankles were due to being on my feet most of the day at work and having to stand while servicing my Sisterlocks clients. But, I started noticing swollen ankles during times when I had not been on my feet for a long period of time. NOT GOOD!!! I started to worry about what may be causing my ankles to swell. <br /><br />I thought to myself, "Lord, why is this happening? I'm in my mid 30's and experiencing issues like this!"<br /><br />This was a wake-up call...enough was enough...stop mistreating my body!!! The swollen ankles are due to a number of factors...excess weight, poor diet, lack of water to flush out toxins, consuming food high in salt, etc.<br /><br />That day, I again made a healthy promise to myself. But, this time, I will follow through with that promise!!!<br /><br /><br />WISH ME LUCK EVERYONE...ON TO DAY 3!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-44171450847062907832010-06-14T22:53:00.000-07:002010-06-15T19:06:07.235-07:00Day 1 Of DetoxHi everyone! I just wanted to check in and let you know I survived Day 1 of the detox!!! Here's a recap of today:<br /><br /><br />I woke up at 7:00 a.m. to get ready for work. I'm usually off on Mondays, but a co-worker was on vacation so I had to go in to work. After getting dressed, I headed to the kitchen to prepare a day's supply (1.5 liters) of the lemon cayenne detox drink.<br /><br />On the way to work, I drank 16 ounces of the detox drink. Throughout the day, I continued to sip on the detox drink.<br /><br />Around 11:00 a.m., I started to feel hunger pains. I immediately took a sip of my detox drink and the problem was solved...no more hunger pains. By 2:00 p.m., I had consumed my entire day's supply of detox drink. I continued to sip on water and eat ice for the rest of the day.<br /><br />I noticed, in the afternoon, that I seem to have more energy...I think the detox drink was starting to take effect. <br /><br />After work, I had an appointment with a client, then returned home around 9:15 p.m. I prepared and drank my laxative herbal tea around 9:30 p.m. I relaxed for the rest of the evening.<br /><br /><br />I SURVIVED DAY 1...ON TO DAY 2!!! WISH ME LUCK!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-24623888850976248022010-06-13T09:32:00.000-07:002010-06-13T11:47:56.173-07:00Getting Ready...Let's Do This!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqldv0QL_luA11uy9JUkuikODFmYqw0TRz8Q9MMAxJBLingfzUdzzTbfnMwG3WEF7UmacFH2nWBrR5_sx_-FscN89Z8oLOdpUw3brlbV4lHUelnT6TehP3ABsuEOOTK7MOIMrCyuPU8Hs/s1600/100_2847.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 229px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqldv0QL_luA11uy9JUkuikODFmYqw0TRz8Q9MMAxJBLingfzUdzzTbfnMwG3WEF7UmacFH2nWBrR5_sx_-FscN89Z8oLOdpUw3brlbV4lHUelnT6TehP3ABsuEOOTK7MOIMrCyuPU8Hs/s320/100_2847.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482297329292744690" /></a><br /><br />Hi everyone! Well...I've stocked up on what I need to start the Master Cleanse: Lemon Cayenne Detox!!! I'M READY!!! There has been much talk about this particular detox...if it does the body good or bad! I've done my research, over the years, and found more positive things about this detox approach than negative ones. So, with that said, this is MY method of choice...LOL.<br /><br />Here's my plan:<br /><br />~Master Cleanse/Lemon Cayenne Detox for 10days, starting 6/14/10<br />~ Ease Out Of Detox with Orange Juice, 6/24 through 6/26<br />~Introduction Of Soup/Fruits/Vegetables, starting 6/26 <br /><br />~Exercise (Start off with 1-mile walk at least 3 days a week, gradually increase distance over time)<br /><br /><br />Recipe for 8-ounce portions of Master Cleanse/Lemon Cayenne Detox:<br /><br />~8 ounces of filtered water<br />~1/2 medium lemon (FRESH LEMONS, NOT CONDENSED LEMON JUICE!!!)<br />~2 Tablespoons 100% Pure Grade B Maple Syrup <br />~A PINCH of Cayenne (Red) Pepper<br /><br />Here are some very, very important facts (in case anyone wants to do the master cleanse):<br /><br />* Remember that the syrup and the lemon juice will displace the filtered water. If you fill the bottle up with too much filtered water, there will be no room for your lemon juice or your maple syrup.<br /><br />* The Maple Syrup MUST be Organic Grade B Maple Syrup. It's important...There are no preservatives in it and no artificial sweeteners. <br /><br />* DO NOT USE TOO MUCH CAYENNE PEPPER...YOU ONLY NEED A PINCH!!! If you use too much cayenne, you will render your drink undrinkable. The cayenne pepper is used to keep off any nausea you feel throughout the detox. Plus, the cayenne pepper will help in the cleansing. <br /><br />* If you start feeling nausea during the detox then there are two reasons:<br /><br />1. You haven't consumed enough calories. The maple syrup is your food! It is not just an organic sweetener thrown in there. You must include a total of at least ***1,200*** calories in your diet or your body WILL shut down from lack of caloric intake. It's not healthy. MAKE SURE THERE IS ENOUGH MAPLE SYRUP IN YOUR DETOX DRINK.<br /><br />2. You didn't put any Cayenne Pepper or NOT ENOUGH Cayenne Pepper in your detox drink. You need to put it in there. It isn't just to add spice to your drink, but it actually combats any nausea you feel naturally.<br /><br /><br />* Do not take any supplements, vitamins, or anything of the kind during the detox. You don't know how they will react to your detox. Never detox or start any exercise/diet program without first talking to your doctor. Especially if you are taking anything like this or medication for health reasons. You don't know how they will react. DON'T TAKE THE RISK!!!<br /><br /><br />WISH ME LUCK...MY JOURNEY BEGINS TOMORROW!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-15802153566458311352010-06-11T23:15:00.000-07:002010-06-12T19:20:58.516-07:00Picking Up The Pieces...Starting Over On This Journey<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZ7bTb4kxRQf3zXLk_Le1owJlq2-FlXhvfpuIhFwnrToC9l3-Tk1_f2-31NItSrMa1QVjCqzPBP_mW1y8qdOaRYJSlDKCUzuFZam6Hg7_87wFK8dPqvh5kYfsp6c_m2n8syiz1BX1L4Q/s1600/100_2846.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieZ7bTb4kxRQf3zXLk_Le1owJlq2-FlXhvfpuIhFwnrToC9l3-Tk1_f2-31NItSrMa1QVjCqzPBP_mW1y8qdOaRYJSlDKCUzuFZam6Hg7_87wFK8dPqvh5kYfsp6c_m2n8syiz1BX1L4Q/s320/100_2846.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482077135119171122" /></a><br />Hi everyone! I never thought I would be coming back here to say I'm starting over with this journey. Initially, my plans were to start this journey, succeed, and continue the success as a lifestyle and way of life for me. <br /><br />Well...I WAS succeeding with it...lost 25 pounds and completed the Climb Chicago challenge. But, I couldn't keep the weight off as planned. I've gained all of the weight back I've lost...NOT GOOD!!!<br /><br />Now...I'm back embarking upon this journey once again. Two days from now, I will begin to detox my body for 10 days...then gradually introduce HEALTHY solid foods back into my diet.<br /><br /><br />WISH ME LUCK!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-31349862298321286142009-02-01T08:50:00.000-08:002009-02-01T09:06:59.903-08:00Week 11 & 12 - Weigh-In And Results Of SparkPeople New YOU Boot Camp<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxrTsg_NbovDTrwnscXcL9PRMrkuJC8wQkAoxX_0kNTdZdH5Jv690nkJUkOl2sXxAnFAl6rPvj3MqjYUGapquWrWzxayGgf93JyzwLeBa_o0cGriCmi8sT87eI7i92B1hdp9O2Ei2atZI/s1600-h/scale5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxrTsg_NbovDTrwnscXcL9PRMrkuJC8wQkAoxX_0kNTdZdH5Jv690nkJUkOl2sXxAnFAl6rPvj3MqjYUGapquWrWzxayGgf93JyzwLeBa_o0cGriCmi8sT87eI7i92B1hdp9O2Ei2atZI/s320/scale5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5297872822000673106" /></a><br /><br />Hi everyone!!! Well, I once again forgot to post a week's weigh-in. I weighed in, but I just forgot to come here and update everyone in a post. For Week 11, I weighed in and lost 0.6 pounds. That's not much, but it was a loss. I think I had been dealing with a temporary plateau for a couple of weeks.<br /><br />Now...for the Week 12 weigh-in and results of the SparkPeople New YOU Boot Camp!!! I weighed in this morning and I'm happy to say that I lost another 1.2 pounds!!! Yippee!!! That's a total of 13.6 pounds lost, since starting my health and fitness journey. I'm 2.4 pounds away from my next weight loss goal of 16 pounds.<br /><br />SO...HOW DID I DO WITH THE BOOT CAMP?<br /><br />I DID GREAT!!! The end results of the SparkPeople New YOU Boot Camp were weight and inches lost!!! I lost a total of 5.2 pounds over the 4 weeks of the boot camp and 2 inches from my waist and hips. AWESOME!!! I am totally satisfied with the results!!! I AM SO GLAD I DECIDED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE BOOT CAMP BECAUSE IT KEPT ME MOTIVATED AND BUILT UP MY ENDURANCE TREMENDOUSLY!!!<br /><br />I AM NOW TRAINING FOR THE 2009 CLIMB CHICAGO...A CLIMB INVOLVING 45 FLOORS, 90 FLIGHTS, AND 585 STEPS TO THE TOP OF ONE OF THE PRESIDENTIAL TOWERS IN DOWNTOWN CHICAGO ON MARCH 8, 2009...TO HELP FIGHT AND RAISE MONEY FOR LUNG DISEASE! WISH ME LUCK!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-49455364199140064872009-01-18T19:39:00.000-08:002009-01-18T20:53:19.833-08:00Week 10 - Weigh-In<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjHiX75Hhnz1MyySchVGYo0ddN3YHNVXV9gRNoFNseGY5kCOHuXrBx43q43C5501719JRfvgMFhqutQNIgK-C7IJPzDVcXoannx8YR2jLI51E9xG_64o-56htcgegeBJYS1LyavkjkL8/s1600-h/scale4.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 298px; height: 298px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwjHiX75Hhnz1MyySchVGYo0ddN3YHNVXV9gRNoFNseGY5kCOHuXrBx43q43C5501719JRfvgMFhqutQNIgK-C7IJPzDVcXoannx8YR2jLI51E9xG_64o-56htcgegeBJYS1LyavkjkL8/s320/scale4.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292848242660823266" /></a><br /><br />Hello!!! Well, I'm back to give you a report on Week 10 and get started with Week 11 of my health and fitness journey. Week 2 of the SparkPeople New YOU boot camp was wonderful!!! I've been working up a sweat with cardio and the boot camp videos. <br /><br />I stepped on the scale this morning and I only lost 0.2 lbs. this past week. But, I lost 1/2 inch from my waist and hips!!! So, I'm still making progress!!! As long as I'm seeing some results each week, I am happy!!! Well...Week 11 is here and I'm looking forward to more calories burned and more weight lost this week. Wish me luck!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-81148986469079361772009-01-16T00:00:00.000-08:002009-01-15T23:36:20.146-08:00"SHOW YOUR SPARK" DAY - January 16, 2009<center><div><embed src="http://widget-8d.slide.com/widgets/slideticker.swf" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" quality="high" scale="noscale" salign="l" wmode="transparent" flashvars="cy=bb&il=1&channel=2377900603274100877&site=widget-8d.slide.com" style="width:400px;height:320px" name="flashticker" align="middle"></embed><div style="width:400px;text-align:left;"><a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=2377900603274100877&map=1" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-8d.slide.com/p1/2377900603274100877/bb_t059_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=2377900603274100877&map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-8d.slide.com/p2/2377900603274100877/bb_t059_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide2.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&amp;at=un&amp;id=2377900603274100877&amp;map=2" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-8d.slide.com/m/2377900603274100877/bb_t059_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide9_1.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a> <a href="http://www.slide.com/pivot?cy=bb&at=un&id=2377900603274100877&map=F" target="_blank"><img src="http://widget-8d.slide.com/p4/2377900603274100877/bb_t059_v000_s0un_f00/images/xslide42.gif" border="0" ismap="ismap" /></a></div></div></center><br /><br /><center>Today is "Show Your Spark" Day at <a href="http://www.sparkpeople.com">SparkPeople.com</a>!!! I love SparkPeople!!! SparkPeople has helped me lose 12 pounds, so far, since starting my health and fitness journey on November 10, 2008. I am proud to say that I am part of a worldwide movement in fitness, nutrition and healthy living! SparkPeople has helped me make positive changes in my health and fitness that have also spread to other areas in my life. I still have a little ways to go in reaching my weight loss goal, but I am confident I will reach that goal with SparkPeople on my side! Thank you so much, SparkPeople!!!</center>Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-2390281099448961982009-01-14T06:24:00.001-08:002009-01-14T06:30:23.467-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (1/14/09)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3U3AeiBYtY4YoDdA6vLTFq1lEi08Y_3GMZDiULGwZCsbVzEKPq6SixP4fbXFweFYTID7V0-lep05cHbCCkDmv6qdR_oYGyFAR6g1zuazKNKq0MrTnaJS1Ys5NXQSyHPtA3eMYmjTy-A/s1600-h/flowers9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZ3U3AeiBYtY4YoDdA6vLTFq1lEi08Y_3GMZDiULGwZCsbVzEKPq6SixP4fbXFweFYTID7V0-lep05cHbCCkDmv6qdR_oYGyFAR6g1zuazKNKq0MrTnaJS1Ys5NXQSyHPtA3eMYmjTy-A/s320/flowers9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5291155254440093394" /></a><br /><br /><center><strong>OVERCOMING YOUR PERSONAL "STOP SIGNS"</strong></center><br /><br /><center><strong><em>Know your limits...but never stop trying to exceed them. <br /><br />- Anonymous</em></strong></center><br /><br />Many of us use our "limitations" as a stop sign for reaching our goals. While knowing our limits can safeguard us against injury and embarrassment, too often we use them as avoidance methods in our lives. What is holding you back from reaching your goals? How can you push beyond your comfort zone in a healthy way? Many dieters experience such limitations in on their weight loss journeys. Our bodies and minds are capable of overcoming much more than we could ever imagine if we just try. Today set new goals that may push you a little. Overcoming your personal hang-ups and fears may be one of the most rewarding choices you'll ever make!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-16702168514882023202009-01-11T15:18:00.001-08:002009-01-11T15:35:17.325-08:00Week 9 - Weigh-In<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSzrON5hNcEH4C_0oVORw-TzgdnmlkHFw9UlkItAHYcBOR9uunBAZ0Vy4-zth5TpXuuelFxHlDzEvVYke_ahXYhEuPHgf016zJvDtsoBucks_q7DpFpaELs6P_YBJKyFe8bX6O1wWctA/s1600-h/scale3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGSzrON5hNcEH4C_0oVORw-TzgdnmlkHFw9UlkItAHYcBOR9uunBAZ0Vy4-zth5TpXuuelFxHlDzEvVYke_ahXYhEuPHgf016zJvDtsoBucks_q7DpFpaELs6P_YBJKyFe8bX6O1wWctA/s320/scale3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5290179703395846354" /></a><br /><br />Hello everyone!!! I just finished Week 9 and today starts Week 10 of my health and fitness journey. Also, today starts Week 2 of the SparkPeople New YOU Boot Camp. Today, I weighed in and I'm happy to report that I lost 3 pounds...YESSSS!!! I'm so proud of myself! This makes a total of 11.4 pounds lost so far, since I started this journey back in November. I just keep telling myself to keep up the good work. <br /><br />I've met my second weight loss goal...an 11 pound weight loss. To reward myself, I am going to order some AVON smell goods (perfume fragrances). WOW...I'm just ecstatic right now...and so determined to make it to my final weight loss of 41 pounds!!! The boot camp has been going great!!! This first week was awesome...I did the 10-minute boot camp videos along with 45 minutes of cardio. I'm so energized right now...Week 10 here I come!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-81255164113228425452009-01-04T17:09:00.000-08:002009-01-04T17:26:53.662-08:00Week 8 - Weigh In & First Day Of Sparkpeople New YOU Bootcamp!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkMLMAhFxiLPujNQxW5JckhHh3hzx3AZinarJwP3WLAjPV5gyw3Wyn8K8Y-PNQ6_zcRa2QP12J0UJpB3SAh30ZHxtJ9vXm_kuN3Qz3KeV7Ze4LQhYIeVE7JC5NB1D5UJt4huJ0SuDeYU/s1600-h/100_2054.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgjkMLMAhFxiLPujNQxW5JckhHh3hzx3AZinarJwP3WLAjPV5gyw3Wyn8K8Y-PNQ6_zcRa2QP12J0UJpB3SAh30ZHxtJ9vXm_kuN3Qz3KeV7Ze4LQhYIeVE7JC5NB1D5UJt4huJ0SuDeYU/s320/100_2054.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5287610960677190850" /></a><br /><center><span style="font-weight:bold;">FIRST DAY OF SPARKPEOPLE'S NEW YOU BOOTCAMP<br /></span></center><br />Hi there!!! Well, I'm back with my Week 8 weigh in. You may be wondering why I'm weighing in a day early when I usually weigh in on Mondays. Well, I've decided to try out Sparkpeople's New YOU Bootcamp which starts today 1/4/09 and goes to 1/31/09. Therefore, I'm switching to Sunday weigh-in's from now on...making Sunday the start of a new week.<br /><br />I weighed in this morning, along with taking several other measurements: BMI, Body Fat Percentage, and Waist/Hip Measurements. I am excited to say that I lost 2.8 pounds in Week 8....WooHoo!!! That's a total weight loss of 8.4 pounds so far!!! I'm so proud of myself!!! I'm 2.6 pounds away from rewarding myself for reaching an 11 pound weight loss goal...although I still have to reach my FINAL 41 pound weight loss goal. I know this bootcamp will be challenging, but I'm ready!!! I hope to accomplish, from this bootcamp, a greater appreciation for working hard and pressing on when it comes to workouts. Where there is effort, there are results!!! I hope to end this bootcamp with some sort of progress in weight loss, endurance, and confidence! Wish me luck!!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-60374776537362548592009-01-01T20:18:00.000-08:002009-01-01T22:24:31.328-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (1/1/09)...Happy New Year!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tdoso_j-bAqD5Ru4CVs4BiNs9yXanSgWDmFGXrEdkLeoWlzIesyPFK98TJiuEpI1foCBM2VN_PaFnF64cXamGciPppH-cT1dNNli3TXxHdNjzBCPAgKn65wgF8OtBSkSAzoQFBV2BFQ/s1600-h/flower1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9tdoso_j-bAqD5Ru4CVs4BiNs9yXanSgWDmFGXrEdkLeoWlzIesyPFK98TJiuEpI1foCBM2VN_PaFnF64cXamGciPppH-cT1dNNli3TXxHdNjzBCPAgKn65wgF8OtBSkSAzoQFBV2BFQ/s320/flower1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5286577442893707474" /></a><br /><br /><center>AWARENESS THROUGH DOWNSHIFTING</center><br /><br /><center><span style="font-weight:bold;"><span style="font-style:italic;">Vacation is what you take when you can't take what you've been taking any longer.<br /><br />- Lion from Wizard of Oz</span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"></span></span></center><br /><br />Often our first reaction to a stressful situation is to overcompensate and overwork to overcome whatever it is. Sometimes though, the best thing you can do it step away, take a breath, and come back to tackle the problem with a clear head. Replacing important things in your life with work only causes anxiety to build up--not to mention that it takes the joy out of life. Vacation does not have to mean physically leaving your everyday life and jet setting to the beach. Whatever relaxes you, brings more clarity, or calms your mind during times of stress can certainly be enough to rejuvenate! When logic tells you to quicken your pace and pile on the extra work, yet your heart is reminding you of the meaningful time you are neglecting with family, friends, and yourself, it's time to slow down. Often letting off on the gas for a period of time can compose and refocus your mind.Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-21434432562099671592008-12-30T13:25:00.000-08:002008-12-30T13:29:13.083-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (12/30/08)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMGfo8nDWhNeSPHU0gm6gfq5rV7rwSmWgkBl4znpO0x5x6RrBNB3fITpxMnYZL6ILMCK3xVMK2dTpganGSN9be15lbsL_aQiS2BILPyi419OdgpdaiW7a4KRvOVCWP-YH1WtsS39AcDE/s1600-h/flowers8.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 251px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGMGfo8nDWhNeSPHU0gm6gfq5rV7rwSmWgkBl4znpO0x5x6RrBNB3fITpxMnYZL6ILMCK3xVMK2dTpganGSN9be15lbsL_aQiS2BILPyi419OdgpdaiW7a4KRvOVCWP-YH1WtsS39AcDE/s320/flowers8.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285697649773207330" /></a><br /><br /><center><strong>TAKING INVENTORY OF YOUR GIFTS AND BLESSINGS</strong></center><br /><br /><strong><em>Should you find yourself at a loss, wondering what life is all about and what your purpose is, be thankful. There are those who didn't live long enough to get the opportunity to wonder.<br />- Unknown</em> </strong><br /><br />You'll probably spend some time this weekend thinking about the good things in your life and your loved ones. Before you do that, take a moment to just consider how lucky you are to be here in the first place. In the 21st century, we can experience more in a month than most people throughout history did in a lifetime. Instead of appreciating that fact, we usually just end up wanting to do and have more. We look at what's wrong rather than what's right. This is a perfect time to take a look at your life and priorities again. Can you make some extra time every day to just enjoy the moment and your loved ones? You've been given the gift of a lifetime of moments. Accept the gift and prove yourself worthy.Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-34963428503840879172008-12-30T08:05:00.000-08:002008-12-30T08:23:43.768-08:00Week 7 - Weigh-In<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB6r0s-PEU44ruE3oRdgv3Ir9oQvIKVylsjRY0IN5EjjbZtHB8qixavw7eVx1KQsKUcMASYc5sEYavUer5ldicjWMB2A9oV9WCSlI_FpslRagmPwFyPGgzDHDzGJQEfEb9HMtM7aKVNM/s1600-h/scale3.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqB6r0s-PEU44ruE3oRdgv3Ir9oQvIKVylsjRY0IN5EjjbZtHB8qixavw7eVx1KQsKUcMASYc5sEYavUer5ldicjWMB2A9oV9WCSlI_FpslRagmPwFyPGgzDHDzGJQEfEb9HMtM7aKVNM/s320/scale3.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5285615576178243746" /></a><br /><br />Greeting everyone! I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas holiday. I can’t believe I missed last week’s weigh-in update (Week 6)! I guess with the hustle and bustle of the Christmas holiday, I missed weighing myself and updating you last week. Here I am…updating you with my Week 7 weigh-in. Well…I hopped on the scale this morning, upon waking, and I’m up about 0.8 lbs. I’m not disappointed. I’m actually pleased because it could have been worse with all of the holiday festivities/dinners. I’ve been thrown a little off track with my water intake and workouts, but I’m back on track this week. Hurray…this is Week 8!!! <br /><br />About 2 weeks ago, I purchased the fitness DVD, Leslie Sansone’s Walk Away the Pounds. This DVD is awesome!!! I do the 2-mile High Calorie Burn workout. It really gets my heart rate going and I work up a pretty good sweat. I never knew walking could be this convenient in the comforts of your home...and made to be fun. There is a section of the workout which utilizes Walk Away weights that I do not have. So, instead, I use my 2 pound dumbbells. I plan on purchasing the Walk Away weights soon. I also plan on purchasing additional Leslie Sansone DVD's.<br /><br />Well, there it is...all in a nutshell...Week 7 weigh-in update!!! On to Week 8 and a New Year 2009!!!! Happy New Year everyone!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-35413965965114031202008-12-16T06:11:00.000-08:002008-12-16T06:14:06.721-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (12/16/08)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZr65L2zK_Vh3eeJ6tXAg4UkYR_tEH1p5xoQioZpeLonix6fGp49bo4EoSPoNB_ZavUPZ9jlZ4ITaBl8RmJfL0jLniAzs_VtPSg1bBHOoXFNMgw_bagJspQFtVQn1Z4CjVPFkOSIil4s/s1600-h/flowers7.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEZr65L2zK_Vh3eeJ6tXAg4UkYR_tEH1p5xoQioZpeLonix6fGp49bo4EoSPoNB_ZavUPZ9jlZ4ITaBl8RmJfL0jLniAzs_VtPSg1bBHOoXFNMgw_bagJspQFtVQn1Z4CjVPFkOSIil4s/s320/flowers7.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280390584054603954" /></a><br /><br /><center><strong>BLAZING YOUR OWN TRAIL</strong></center><br /><br /><center><strong><em>There are two kinds of man: the ones who make history and the ones who endure it.<br /><br />- Camilo Jose Cela, Spanish novelist</em></strong></center><br /><br />History is written all around you every day. It may not be history that makes the college textbooks, but it's your history just the same. Do you make your own history? Or do you endure the life that others make for you? When you choose a direction and dedicate yourself to it, you make history. When you listen to naysayers who convince you that it can't be done, you endure history. When you set your priorities and stick to them, you make history. When you get distracted by things that you find useless, you endure it. When you decide to have a good day, you create a life you want. When you allow outside forces to dictate your mood, you get the life that's given to you. There are an infinite number of possible histories out there, waiting to be lived. Whatever your life has been up to this point doesn't matter. What counts is the history that awaits you in the future. Which do you choose?Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-40688003147084599262008-12-15T10:24:00.000-08:002008-12-15T10:49:55.346-08:00Week 5 - Weigh-In<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiK61H_Ln1ZnyTar0LsXFrIsZ3dUmI5rVPxqtuaJGX_Sf5LV9itA3jjOHb-uPLjJffwMyb7c9mJlAmqc5UWsbbRA5fonZyJtBRoOPxpjNltmGVL3UDWxrpIoXrUE0uKoo2E_fGUOXV4o/s1600-h/scale-p.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 160px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBiK61H_Ln1ZnyTar0LsXFrIsZ3dUmI5rVPxqtuaJGX_Sf5LV9itA3jjOHb-uPLjJffwMyb7c9mJlAmqc5UWsbbRA5fonZyJtBRoOPxpjNltmGVL3UDWxrpIoXrUE0uKoo2E_fGUOXV4o/s320/scale-p.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5280084696594033122" /></a><br /><br />I am so ecstatic today!!! Week 5 was the best week so far in this health and fitness journey. I hopped on the scale this morning and drum roll please....I've lost 3.4 pounds this past week!!! I've reach my first weight loss goal...a 6 pound weight loss (actually...it's a 6.4 pound loss)!!! I am so proud of myself!!! The only thing I did differently this week was to cut down a little on my carbohydrate intake. I also ate more fruits, vegetables, and salmon. This is awesome!!! My reward for reaching a 6 pound weight loss is dumbbells...which I've already purchased! I'm now on to Week 6...trying to reach that 11 pound weight loss goal!!!Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-51543141478011881372008-12-12T05:56:00.001-08:002008-12-12T05:59:12.258-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (12/12/08)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtBduFkpqgRepB2SumJgitnIqpRayUwfzfvqwSMf1pXFe8c2ohGcL_0nV0WJxocAgCkHWPJxttmWWzXg8_rQmzz8TFwXlUTtzIgefzoLpxsWk5MYOcOIxkVbgWJPCVJQ493hg6KcpsJI/s1600-h/flowers6.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGtBduFkpqgRepB2SumJgitnIqpRayUwfzfvqwSMf1pXFe8c2ohGcL_0nV0WJxocAgCkHWPJxttmWWzXg8_rQmzz8TFwXlUTtzIgefzoLpxsWk5MYOcOIxkVbgWJPCVJQ493hg6KcpsJI/s320/flowers6.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278902204586662226" /></a><br /><br /><center><strong>REMEMBERING THE GOOD TIMES, LEARNING FROM THE BAD</strong></center><br /><br /><center><strong><em>Shut out all of your past except that which will help you weather your tomorrows.<br /><br />- William Osler, Canadian physician</em></strong></center><br /><br />Memory can be used for good or for evil. If you use your past as a source of learning, it's worth remembering. If, however, all you do is mull over your mistakes and punish yourself for your failures, it's a waste of time. Rehashing failure can paralyze you in mortal fear of making another mistake, which, of course, just makes the feeling worse and practically guarantees future letdowns. The key to making meaningful changes is to pay more attention to the future than to the past. Have you ever noticed that the best athletes also have the shortest and most selective memories? Instead of dwelling on a missed shot or a flawed dive, they concentrate on making corrections and getting the next one right. It's as if the failed attempt never happened. It's forgotten and they don't fear trying again. If you mess up, even in an epic, life-altering way, work hard to leave it behind and concentrate on the possibilities yet to come. Tomorrow is much brighter when it's not smeared with a fixation on yesterday.Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6163134633920895586.post-91327199753935935932008-12-10T06:15:00.000-08:002008-12-10T06:18:11.335-08:00One Of My Favorite Healthy Reflections From SparkPeople (12/10/08)<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJFyiGwROIcrVG5rFT6kL1w7BTWXFLwt-5oQMr6f_XXedKR7th4cQ5QedUSWva7-xdQMQpVpvc1Yary1w1pioDHAbZugw6Uj_jbqlSEn4bLFmV5UYNvu3raJsHBhjVC0XxoXVVu4SdDg/s1600-h/flowers5.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGJFyiGwROIcrVG5rFT6kL1w7BTWXFLwt-5oQMr6f_XXedKR7th4cQ5QedUSWva7-xdQMQpVpvc1Yary1w1pioDHAbZugw6Uj_jbqlSEn4bLFmV5UYNvu3raJsHBhjVC0XxoXVVu4SdDg/s320/flowers5.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5278164995589650818" /></a><br /><br /><center><strong>WHAT DO YOU DO TO MOTIVATE YOURSELF?</strong></center><br /><br /><center><strong><em>People often say that motivation doesn't last. Well, neither does bathing--that's why we recommend it daily.<br /><br />- Zig Ziglar, motivational speaker</em></strong></center><br /><br />Makes sense doesn't it? The secret to staying consistent with your goals is to stay motivated. That means finding ways to fire yourself up on a daily basis. Being inspired at a seminar, by reading a book, or while talking to a dynamic speaker is easy. But what happens when you're on your own? To follow through on that burst of motivation and reach the finish line, you need regular booster shots. Give yourself those little positive reminders that you have an important job to do and a good reason for doing it. What's pushing you? Surround yourself with visual, verbal, and physical "pep talks" that trigger that motive. It doesn't take long for dust to gather on your momentum, making your goals turn stale. A daily dose of motivation kicks off the dust before it can settle and gives you a fresh, clean start.Natural And Free (Naturally KiKi)http://www.blogger.com/profile/09350656693659565584noreply@blogger.com0