A Fitness Resolution stll good for 2011

We had a conversation with the owner of our gym about the huge number of new members they always get in January.  People have great intentions to turn over a new leaf and lose weight or just get healthier.  Unfortunately, it is typical that most of these members fade out of the picture by Spring.  Why?  More than likely, these folks were not really committed to their self-improvement.  It is one thing to know what we should do, and quite another to completely internalize it and make fitness our top priority FOR LIFE.

This seems surprising in a way, because the feeling--the high, if you will--that comes with being in shape, looking good, and knowing that for the most part we are putting healthy fuel into our bodies, is incomparable.  So, what to do?  Let us know your ideas for turning a fitness resolution into actual life change. 

We also have to renew our committment each year as we look forward to, and prepare to embrace, the changes that will inevitably take place in our lives.

The Barn Shops Are Blogging

Our 20 shops at The Barn in Castle Rock now have a blog too.  We'll be posting events as well as stories about the shops and about our shop owners.  So, in additon to the website, http://www.thebarncastlerock.com/, you can get all the information you want, not to mention we twitter @TheBarnAntiques.

Meanwhile, the thaw is starting and we are hoping to solve our frozen pipe problems.  But, first things first.  I'm off to The Barn to check the shop, then to the gym to work out.  Don't know about you but I tend to eat a lot more when it's cold.  However, did you know that shivering is a great calorie burner--that is why you need to eat more--and this presents a weight loss opportunity.  Maybe I'll resist turning on the heat in the car a little longer this morning to capitalize on the shivering effect and to offset the cookies I plan to make and undoubtedly eat this afternoon.

Positive Self Image or Vanity?

You know, I got to thinking about why some people have a more difficult time than others developing and then maintaining an eating and exercise lifestyle that will keep them fit for life.  I wonder if being on the vain side--really needing to look good in order to be comfortable--is a key.  Maybe we need to be a little vain in order to make the small sacrifices necessary to stay look'n good.  At least we need to put ourselves near the top of our prioriy list.  We need to try to take the time to exercise and prepare and eat healthy, rather than constantly grabbing easy but fattening and low nutrition snacks.  And this needs to happen despite job, kids, house, and other demands on our time.  After all, in the long run we might be around and be productive longer if we make the necessary commitment now.

Renewed Commitment

We know we are going to overindulge over the next few weeks, so we should cut ourselves some slack.  But now is the time to mentally review how we are doing overall with health and fitness and renew our commitment for the coming year.  Even though we will probably slip over the Holidays, we positively know we will be back on track in January.  Remember the first rule.  Water, water, water...at least two quarts a day to flush out fat cells and other impurities and to stay hydrated.  Alternate each alcoholic beverage with a glass of water.  Bye for now.

Will I finish the novel?

Looks like I will.  After writing more than 250 pages I gotta finish.  This takes place on a cruise ship on a  four week sailing around The Horn of South America.  The main character, 40 year old Darcy Farthing, struggles with emotional issues surrounding twenty year old, but huge mistakes.  She is also a pragmatic sceptic and there is a philosophical, spiritual, component to the story.  Mainly it is a murder mystery woven through romance, travel, and mysterious coincidences that defy all logic, result in life-changing experiences, and raise questions about the flow of life and change.  

A New Season and....

a new opportunity for change.  I've been sleeping longer, apparently because it seems so dark in contrast to just a couple weeks ago.  So, the frost is on the garden and I've pulled out my leggings.  Now I'm thinking Sari skirt with boots and a renewed excitement about stepping out.  Most important, gotta keep up the exercise...we're in our 6th year of gym membership...and now is a great time to start the GLOP routine (see previous blog) and best of all, easy homemade soups.  Full of vitamins, nurturing, and low calories.  The perfect food.  Got any good recipes?

Health Tips

Maybe you want to take a look at previous posts on weight loss and fitness.  In addition to what is there I wanted to suggest if you do the 1200 calorie a day regimen it would be a good idea to take a good multi-vitamin if you don't already.  Let me know if you want more information or want to talk about the calorie counting method.

The Glop

I wish this was a fun and clever acronym but alas, it is just what I call the pureed vegetable and fruit concoction I make about twice a week and try to drink every day.  I first started making "smoothies" for my mom when she was laid up after surgery and not eating much, so she would be sure to get some nutrition.

Then, over time I modified or I should say simplified down to something that I credit with eliminating another layer of fat from my abdomen and renewing my energy.  Also, I have a good feeling about getting more vegetables and fruits into my diet.  This is so simple.  I use a blender, not even a food processor, which I guess might be better.  I puree a handful of baby spinach, a carrot, and any other vegetable I have on hand, like squash, green beans, green pepper, etc.  Then I add a banana, an orange (with a little of the peel for vitamin K), an apple, maybe a peach, etc. and a couple of different kinds of berries, usually blueberries and raspberries.  So, whatever you have, but a variety of good anti oxident fruits.   

For liquid I use pure cranberry juice but orange or apple juice will work to make the consistancy drinkable.  I end up with a full blender.  I think the cranberry helps overcome the vegetable taste, but honestly, this has not been an issue.  It tastes really good.  I only drink about 6 ounces a day.  Be sure to store in the refrigerator in an opaque container, since light can destroy the vitamins.

Reposting S. America

I  Just found this unbelievable shot of Rio taken on our S. America cruise two years ago.  It is as beautiful as it looks, as you know if you have been.  The shot of my husband, Tim, and I is taken at an Aztec ruin near Lima.  Cruising is the way to go.  Have you tried it?  There are fantastic deals to be had.

Synergy Decor at The Barn

Don't forget to check out our shops at The Barn in Castle Rock.  Let me know what you think about us.  Please visit Synergy, one of the 20 stores under our 100 year old roof.  Tell me if there is something you are looking for but could not find and I'll see if I can accomodate.   http://www.synergyatthebarn.com/ 

What book, you ask?

Well, I've always wanted to try to write fiction.  My Fed job entailed mass quantities of writing, but not anything fun and definitely nonfiction.  So, I'm parlaying my knowledge of cruise ships and South American destinations into a murder mystery with several different twists.  I have about 250 pages written and still don't know if it is any good.  So I plan to enlist the help of some readers who like this genre and are willing to provide brutal feedback, before I plunge into publishing....first, though, I have to finish it. Agh!!

Another wellness tip

Putting too much pressure on ourselves raises anxiety, which is self-defeating.  Weight loss, like anything else worth achieving in life takes time and dedication.  View it as a job.  Something you know you will achieve over time.  Relax and trust in the simple fact that your body will respond positively to reducing calories, without drastic diet alterations.  Of course, the more you are used to eating, the more change you will have to make.  Count those calories and stay around 1200 perday.  WHOLE GRAIN is the key.  Fills you up, provides fiber, and along with water, will help shed the pounds.

Second day

Wow!  if you like mid-century, look at this fabulous bar/cabinet.  It's on the direct buy section of the website.  http://www.synergyatthebarn.com/.
I hope someone is out there to see this.  If you want to chat about challenges in getting it together for fitness or trying new paths, I've learned a lot as I moved through 50 years of challenges and change.  One positive outcome leads to another and another.  My newest endeavor is drafting a novel but I'm still focused on my own wellbeing and Synergy Decor.  The book is just one more thing I'm trying.  Don't be afraid to fail.  Sometimes just giving it a shot is most important.
By the way, I'm selling my precious metal clay (PMC) kiln, if you know anyone interested.  Great deal.  check the website.

The Barn Antiques and Specialty Shops

Just a note to locals.  If you haven't already checked out The Barn in Castle Rock, you're missing a real treat.  Synergy Decor is one of 20 shops in a 100 year old building at 3rd and Perry.  We have a little of everything, living in harmony (synergy, if you will).  From antiques to new home decor, jewelry, clothes, and gifts.  http://www.thebarncastlerock.com/.  We're on twitter, too.

Check out the shop and let me know any thoughts you have about my blog idea.

synergyatthebarn.com

Repost: Weight Loss Tips.

Welcome tweeters and everyone! Contact me if you need some inspiration for improving your wellness and fitness as well as enhancing your surroundings. As a generalist, not an expert, I keep trying new things. This is my fourth career path and I like to say, at least my eighth endeavor. Ask me about transitions from fashion model and finishing school teacher, insurance adjuster, single parent/college student, federal investigator, jewelry artist, writer, traveler, and lots in between and since. I think some keys to unlocking potential for happiness and wellbeing are maintaining a sense of humor as well as skepticism about irrational beliefs, and adopting healthy lifestyles for mind and body. No surprises there, but easier said than done, right?

And passing healthy habits on to our children.  I love this shot of my son, Major Shayne, the Air Force C130 navigator, and me in the beautiful rarified air of our Colorado high country.

My life long attempt to be healthy and not overweight and my biology background have taught me a few things. Once you get on a role moving your body everyday in exercises that are more than your normal daily routine and increasing your intake of vegetables and whole grains, you will see a renewed vigor and eventually, increased metabolism. Sure, genetics are important in body type, but everyone can reduce their fat dramatically with easy steps. DO NOT deprive yourself, DO NOT fast, and DO NOT go on a "diet". These are primarily created for someone to make money. Just learn to count calories and stick to 1200 to 1400 healthy calories a day to lose up to two pounds per week. Contact me if you need inspiration and details.

So here's a simple low tech. tip. Go buy a book that lists how many calories are in every food. Study the foods you eat and like. Eat more of the low cal and less of the high. Stay around 1200 a day to lose weight. If you slip one day, make up for it the next. It has worked for me for over 40 years. Trust me!!

Another tip you probably already know. Drink lots of water. We often mistake thirst for hunger, especially in our dry climate. Most of us don't experience real hunger. When you think you want to eat, try drinking a glass of water and see if that satisfies. Not soda, tea, coffee, or alcohol, but good old water. Most people are somewhat dehydrated (a major cause of headaches). Your body will thank you and after a while you will recognize your bodies craving for moisture, not food. Like a pump, the water flushes dead cells and impurities out and hydrated cells don't cling to water, so you will eliminate swelling.

Here's a tip about the most glorious of meals...breakfast. This is a no brainer. Don't skip it and don't eat processed sugar foods like pastries or donuts. Eat whole grains, fruit, and protein and your body will be set for a day of healthy eating. Sugar foods just spike your blood sugar, which then plummets, sapping your energy and making you think you are hungry for more sugar. Stop excuses about can't eat in the am and just start doing it.