No amount of exhaustion could have kept me away from a free Zumba class. I love free even more than I love Zumba! After staying up until the wee hours of the night watching the election results, exhausted doesn't begin to describe how tired I was. Still I wasn't turning down free. And of course I didn't need to be turning down the exercise either.
For those reasons and the fact that I wanted to check out a different instructor, I pressed my way to the class with my cozy bed not far from my mind. Long story short, what I liked most about the instructor was her long thick twists. Yep, she's a naturalista too. Other than that I wasn't impressed with her. Maybe this is because my regular Zumba instructor, Diamond, has the energy of a fireball that anyone else would pale in comparison. Before Diamond I thought no one could top the first Zumba instructor I had. Then came Diamond. Nevertheless, I think Amber--the latest instructor--is worth another shot.
Why? She's young. And according to her bio she's educated in exercise science. Also during her introduction, she mentioned that she was a hip hop dancer, too. So I figure that maybe she held back a little because there was a considerable amount of older participants in the class.
What makes one Zumba instructor better than another to you? Would you give the new instructor another chance?
20 years is far too long to be singing the "whoa is me" song about the body that I want and only I can create. 2015 is the year to shut up or put up!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
As Insane as I Get
Finally a night without late night binging--for lack of a better term--on my favorite cereal of the month, Honeycombs. Ironically I awoke the following morning to the Insanity infomercial.
Yes, you know the one. You've seen it. It's the one where a young woman proudly proclaims to have thrown up after the workout. Uhh...that's too insane for me. Yet, on this particular morning, I found myself being lured in.
"Get results that would normally take one year in 60 days!" It claims.
"I'm in the best shape of my life!" Many participants claim.
Working out to that level of insanity, one can't help but be in the best shape of their lives. I know this. I've always known this. And no matter how much I want to be in the best shape of my life, the fact still remains that "Insanity" is too insane for me. While my fitness level is closer to 3, folks need to be like 10 + for that kind of workout.
So, for me, I'll choose my own version insanity, which is any physical exerting exercise program that makes me sweat. Chris Freytag 10lb Slimdown, Jeanette Jenkins Beach BodyWorkout, Denise Austin Blast Away the Fat, or even a brisk walk or jog on the treadmill.
If, and when, I do any of these workouts on a consistent basis and clean up my eating, I do see results. No throwing up needed!
Have you tried Insanity? How is it working for you?
"Get results that would normally take one year in 60 days!" It claims.
"I'm in the best shape of my life!" Many participants claim.
Working out to that level of insanity, one can't help but be in the best shape of their lives. I know this. I've always known this. And no matter how much I want to be in the best shape of my life, the fact still remains that "Insanity" is too insane for me. While my fitness level is closer to 3, folks need to be like 10 + for that kind of workout.
So, for me, I'll choose my own version insanity, which is any physical exerting exercise program that makes me sweat. Chris Freytag 10lb Slimdown, Jeanette Jenkins Beach BodyWorkout, Denise Austin Blast Away the Fat, or even a brisk walk or jog on the treadmill.
If, and when, I do any of these workouts on a consistent basis and clean up my eating, I do see results. No throwing up needed!
Have you tried Insanity? How is it working for you?
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Black Coffee--Can it help my belly fat?
After yesterday's wardrobe malfunction, today I got a jump start on casual Friday, sporting black yoga pants, a black thermal top, with a denim vest. Of course, black for its slimming qualities after feeling like a straight up rollie pollie yesterday.
What a difference a day makes? While preparing my morning coffee, I found myself seriously considering no additives. Perhaps a test run of two weeks and see what results occur. Since I'm not one of those coffee-with-my-cream-and-sugar types, I've never believed that enduring black coffee--UGH--would be beneficial for my belly goals.
But everything I read says otherwise.
Check out these articles I recently read:
Coffee: Can it Affect Your Weight Loss
Bellt Busting Tips
Which is Better for Losing Belly Fat
What say you?
What a difference a day makes? While preparing my morning coffee, I found myself seriously considering no additives. Perhaps a test run of two weeks and see what results occur. Since I'm not one of those coffee-with-my-cream-and-sugar types, I've never believed that enduring black coffee--UGH--would be beneficial for my belly goals.
But everything I read says otherwise.
Check out these articles I recently read:
Coffee: Can it Affect Your Weight Loss
Bellt Busting Tips
Which is Better for Losing Belly Fat
What say you?
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Today's Exercise Motivation
Today I'm showing solidarity for Domestic Violence Awareness Day with a group of employees at my place of work. We're wearing purple. The choices in my closet were limited to a purple sweater that has a bothersome hole in the shoulder that I conveniently forget about after I take it off and a purple wrap dress. From my outfit selections the past couple of days consisting of dresses, I decided to keep with the trend.
Unfortunately, the timing couldn't be worse. Not only am I bloated, I've been indulging in cookies, cupcakes, and pizza over the last few weeks. Of course not everyday. But enough. Too bad I hadn't planned on wearing this dress two weeks ago. Maybe I'd have done things differently.
I'm as disgusted by that attitude as I am about how my belly is bulging in this dress. And I'm sad about it too. After 17 years of unsuccessfully trying to get a flat stomach I've come to realize that, while I want it, I don't want it bad enough to make the necessary sacrifices. Life is too short and unpredictable to spend so much time worrying about everything that I put into month. Coffee vs Tea. I prefer coffee with light cream and sugar substitute. Pizza. I no longer eat it 1-2 times per week and indulge maybe twice a month. Sweets. Okay. They're a BIG problem for me, I'll admit. Still there has been great improvement . It's been years since I took down an entire pack of break and bake cookies while the kids were away. Now I might have a naughty treat too many days in a row before I finally pump the breaks.
I prefer to spend more time doing the things I enjoy like reading, writing, blogging, spending time with family. Exercising belongs on that list too, believe it or not. I'm just not trying to get my Jillian Michaels or Tae Bo on. Until today, that is.
Today I'm motivated to intensify my exercise regimen, if not just for today. If nothing else it'll make me feel better. You know it's been reported that no matter ones size, exercise makes you feel better & sexier. I could use a little bit of both.
What motivates you to kick start your fitness regimen?
Unfortunately, the timing couldn't be worse. Not only am I bloated, I've been indulging in cookies, cupcakes, and pizza over the last few weeks. Of course not everyday. But enough. Too bad I hadn't planned on wearing this dress two weeks ago. Maybe I'd have done things differently.
I'm as disgusted by that attitude as I am about how my belly is bulging in this dress. And I'm sad about it too. After 17 years of unsuccessfully trying to get a flat stomach I've come to realize that, while I want it, I don't want it bad enough to make the necessary sacrifices. Life is too short and unpredictable to spend so much time worrying about everything that I put into month. Coffee vs Tea. I prefer coffee with light cream and sugar substitute. Pizza. I no longer eat it 1-2 times per week and indulge maybe twice a month. Sweets. Okay. They're a BIG problem for me, I'll admit. Still there has been great improvement . It's been years since I took down an entire pack of break and bake cookies while the kids were away. Now I might have a naughty treat too many days in a row before I finally pump the breaks.
I prefer to spend more time doing the things I enjoy like reading, writing, blogging, spending time with family. Exercising belongs on that list too, believe it or not. I'm just not trying to get my Jillian Michaels or Tae Bo on. Until today, that is.
Today I'm motivated to intensify my exercise regimen, if not just for today. If nothing else it'll make me feel better. You know it's been reported that no matter ones size, exercise makes you feel better & sexier. I could use a little bit of both.
What motivates you to kick start your fitness regimen?
Saturday, September 15, 2012
Oldie but Goodie
This VHS tape has been collecting dust for at least five years! Being older, extra top heavy,weakening knees, and an injured foot, I didn't think I could hang with my old fitness buddy Denise Austin. She and I go waaayyy back to my first pregnancy 17 years ago when I called myself doing the right thing and exercising during my pregnancy. Although I didn't reap any visible benefits--at least none that mattered to mr--from exercising during my pregnancy, Austin's high energy and positive reassurances throughout her videos was addicting. Over the years I've purchased several of her videos. I always loved her, like "You can do it!" attitude!
Truth be told, I was in better shape when I using her videos. Today marks a new beginning. Maybe now with my improved eating habits, I'll actually lose some of this belly.
Who is your favorite fitness personality! Share in the comments below.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Will a Flat Belly Make You Happy?
"It would?"My friend asked quizzically when I exclaimed how happy I would be if I could get a flat stomach. For me, that's the truth and nothing but the truth. She and I were talking about getting out flat stomachs through plastic surgery.
I was surprised she looked at me so crazily. Who wouldn't be happy for a flat stomach after years trying to get one? Especially when you're considering to go so far as to have surgery to get it.
What's the point if you're not going to feel any differently?
Now don't get your panties in a bunch! I'm not, by any means, saying that a flat stomach will solve all problems in my life--not that I have so many. Nor do I mean to insinuate that a flat stomach will really make me happy. Because I know where my happiness comes from and that's not from anything tangible. That's on the inside. In fact, I already possess it.
However, getting a flat stomach--or something close to it--would be a dream come true! And who wouldn't be happy realizing a dream???
I was surprised she looked at me so crazily. Who wouldn't be happy for a flat stomach after years trying to get one? Especially when you're considering to go so far as to have surgery to get it.
What's the point if you're not going to feel any differently?
Now don't get your panties in a bunch! I'm not, by any means, saying that a flat stomach will solve all problems in my life--not that I have so many. Nor do I mean to insinuate that a flat stomach will really make me happy. Because I know where my happiness comes from and that's not from anything tangible. That's on the inside. In fact, I already possess it.
However, getting a flat stomach--or something close to it--would be a dream come true! And who wouldn't be happy realizing a dream???
Saturday, July 21, 2012
That Was Supposed to be Me
It is 2012, isn't it? I asked myself this question the other the night when I was flipping through the channels and came across Madonna's 1990's film Truth or Dare: The Blonde Ambition Tour. Immediately, I was reminded why I loved Madonna back in the day and still. Homegirl was giggin' her butt off. Fast forward twenty years to 2012 Superbowl XLVI half-time show and Madonna--only slightly more careful--was still working every inch of the stage in at least five inch stilettos.
"Dammit! That's supposed to me!" I want to scream. No, not a 50yr old pop icon but what she represents. Timelessness. From the top of her head to the tip of her toes, Madonna is the woman that I always envisioned myself as in 20 years. Only I didn't fathom it'd take so much sacrifice and hard work!
I'm sure Madonna doesn't indulge in cookies or donuts, or pizza with bread sticks. If she does I bet it's only once or twice a year. Or if she indulges more than that, she probably engages in frequent detoxes and flushes to rid her body of the junk.
None of which I'm interested in. That explains a lot, huh? Lol.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
"Dammit! That's supposed to me!" I want to scream. No, not a 50yr old pop icon but what she represents. Timelessness. From the top of her head to the tip of her toes, Madonna is the woman that I always envisioned myself as in 20 years. Only I didn't fathom it'd take so much sacrifice and hard work!
I'm sure Madonna doesn't indulge in cookies or donuts, or pizza with bread sticks. If she does I bet it's only once or twice a year. Or if she indulges more than that, she probably engages in frequent detoxes and flushes to rid her body of the junk.
None of which I'm interested in. That explains a lot, huh? Lol.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
I Created Monster--My Daughter's Weight Loss Challenge
I only have myself to blame. My daughter's incessant talk about what she's going to eat for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks; what exercises she's going to do, etc. Day in and day out for the last two years.
"Just stop talking about it!" I want to scream at her but I don't. Why? Because she's only using her voice for the daily thoughts swirling around in my head and through my actions for most of her life.
Ironically it hasn't always been like this. In her tween years my daughter used to carry her curves with a PHAT (pretty hot & thick) attitude! Frankly, not only did I love it, I admired it, wishing I had the confidence to carry my own curves like that. Instead, I was always trying to "fix" my body, speaking mainly about what was wrong with me instead of what was right.
Today, I see my obsession in my daughter. She wants a flatter stomach, trimmer thighs, toned arms--a.k.a. the perfect body. And its all my fault. So far it's been the last two years that she's been working at losing weight but if she's like me--not wanting to make the necessary sacrifices to achieve the wanted results--she's got an even longer road ahead of her.
While I'm glad that my daughter, and son for that matter, have learned about the importance of healthy eating and exercise--we incorporate it in our family life--I regret my daughter's obsession with transforming her body. I see her road being just as long as mine, but I hope I'm wrong.
So what do I do at this point in her life? Encourage and support her is all. Keep healthy food in the home. Be her workout buddy when she asks. Advise her to focus on health benefits as opposed to appearance. Compliment her often, curves and all.
Any advise? How are you helping your weight loss obsessed child/teen?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
"Just stop talking about it!" I want to scream at her but I don't. Why? Because she's only using her voice for the daily thoughts swirling around in my head and through my actions for most of her life.
Ironically it hasn't always been like this. In her tween years my daughter used to carry her curves with a PHAT (pretty hot & thick) attitude! Frankly, not only did I love it, I admired it, wishing I had the confidence to carry my own curves like that. Instead, I was always trying to "fix" my body, speaking mainly about what was wrong with me instead of what was right.
Today, I see my obsession in my daughter. She wants a flatter stomach, trimmer thighs, toned arms--a.k.a. the perfect body. And its all my fault. So far it's been the last two years that she's been working at losing weight but if she's like me--not wanting to make the necessary sacrifices to achieve the wanted results--she's got an even longer road ahead of her.
While I'm glad that my daughter, and son for that matter, have learned about the importance of healthy eating and exercise--we incorporate it in our family life--I regret my daughter's obsession with transforming her body. I see her road being just as long as mine, but I hope I'm wrong.
So what do I do at this point in her life? Encourage and support her is all. Keep healthy food in the home. Be her workout buddy when she asks. Advise her to focus on health benefits as opposed to appearance. Compliment her often, curves and all.
Any advise? How are you helping your weight loss obsessed child/teen?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Friday, June 15, 2012
The Morning After
Since the astronomical cost of hostess cupcakes--remember when they cost under $1, now they're knocking on the door of $2! Obviously I'm not put off enough by the cost because I've been indulging on chocolate donuts the last two days! Well, not quite remorsefully but more like back on track, I chose oatmeal for breakfast instead of a bagel with cream cheese on my Tim Horton run this morning.
My diet life is like God's mercies: "New every morning." Yours should be too. Don't beat yourself up over minor stumbling. For me that's all these two days of chocolate donuts were. Giving into the chocolate craving that comes every month.
When that happens should I not do an exercises? Not drink water? Not use my hand weights at work? Not take the stairs at work? Not eat an apple for a snack today?
Why NOT do all of that good stuff just because of a few minutes of not so good?
Success comes to those who never quit quitting!
Subscribe to the blog and follow me on twitter for more health and fitness camaraderie.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
My diet life is like God's mercies: "New every morning." Yours should be too. Don't beat yourself up over minor stumbling. For me that's all these two days of chocolate donuts were. Giving into the chocolate craving that comes every month.
When that happens should I not do an exercises? Not drink water? Not use my hand weights at work? Not take the stairs at work? Not eat an apple for a snack today?
Why NOT do all of that good stuff just because of a few minutes of not so good?
Success comes to those who never quit quitting!
Subscribe to the blog and follow me on twitter for more health and fitness camaraderie.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Thursday, June 14, 2012
Off to the Mall
Going to the mall for the heck of it? Yep. Haven't done that in a while. Started around the time I decided that the mall was the devil while trying to improve my finances. Always luring me in with perfectly put together outfits draped over perfect figured mannequins that looked nothing like me; the worst ones being with a clearance sticker on it. In my younger days, I had to have it all! Hence the need to avoid those traps. On one end this was a good idea, however, it also cut off a pretty easy avenue for being less sedentary and I didn't realize how detrimental that was for the family.
"Detrimental" may be too harsh a word but you get the point. Rather than sitting at home watching cable or going to the movies over-indulging in buttered popcorn-- because that's the only way I enjoy it-- walking around the mall is a much better alternative.
Having matured tremendously with my finances, I no longer fear over spending. If I must make a purchase something it'll be something me or the kids have been in need of and it won't be full price.
As long as the benefit of moving outweighs the few purchases I may make, I'll leave it as on option. This will make my daughter very happy.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
"Detrimental" may be too harsh a word but you get the point. Rather than sitting at home watching cable or going to the movies over-indulging in buttered popcorn-- because that's the only way I enjoy it-- walking around the mall is a much better alternative.
Having matured tremendously with my finances, I no longer fear over spending. If I must make a purchase something it'll be something me or the kids have been in need of and it won't be full price.
As long as the benefit of moving outweighs the few purchases I may make, I'll leave it as on option. This will make my daughter very happy.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Friday, May 25, 2012
The Company You Keep
"Keeping company with like-minded people is key to staying on target with ones fitness regimen."
I've read something along these lines plenty of times in one fitness magazine or another over the last several years. I've always believed it to be true but today I had sort of an epiphany on the matter.
An unexpected lunch with my ex-husband, of all people, drove the point home. It's simply something not right about eating unhealthy, fattening food in the presence of someone who knew you in your more slender days, especially when they're currently on a stringent fitness regimen and have the mouth that my ex-husband has. Therefore, given the choice of lunch venues I chose Subway; he decided on Coney Island.
"Is this a setup?" He wants to tempt me with burgers & fries while he, the more disciplined eater, gets something healthy.
No way was I going to subject myself to his eventual ridicule. Ironically, I chose the same salad that he did.
Question is: would this story have ended the same had I had lunch with my current husband, a far cry from being health conscience? Not likely. French fries would have been a definite selection.
Does this mean that I need to spend more time with my ex? Absolutely NOT! It does mean that I need to be the leader of my food decisions at all times. Just maybe, my husband will follow my lead and choose more healthily if I do.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson or @skinnyfatisme
I've read something along these lines plenty of times in one fitness magazine or another over the last several years. I've always believed it to be true but today I had sort of an epiphany on the matter.
An unexpected lunch with my ex-husband, of all people, drove the point home. It's simply something not right about eating unhealthy, fattening food in the presence of someone who knew you in your more slender days, especially when they're currently on a stringent fitness regimen and have the mouth that my ex-husband has. Therefore, given the choice of lunch venues I chose Subway; he decided on Coney Island.
"Is this a setup?" He wants to tempt me with burgers & fries while he, the more disciplined eater, gets something healthy.
No way was I going to subject myself to his eventual ridicule. Ironically, I chose the same salad that he did.
Question is: would this story have ended the same had I had lunch with my current husband, a far cry from being health conscience? Not likely. French fries would have been a definite selection.
Does this mean that I need to spend more time with my ex? Absolutely NOT! It does mean that I need to be the leader of my food decisions at all times. Just maybe, my husband will follow my lead and choose more healthily if I do.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson or @skinnyfatisme
Saturday, May 12, 2012
Zumba Here I AM
Tonight I made my Zumba instructor very happy. In my mind I see her doing a little happy dance because another one of her students has stuffed her face with all the wrong things. More money in her pockets, not that I'm hating. Maybe if I went to her class to work off frustration and combat the estrogen imbalance of my monthly cycle instead of stuffing my face with Swiss Rolls, Pringles, and Sprite Zero I wouldn't be feeling as crappy as I do the morning after.
Last time I was in class I looked over the class make-up. All body types were represented. The fitness enthusiasts with already nicely shaped bodies, severely overweight people keeping up with the moves at a much slower pace but moving nonetheless. Then there were those in my category--the belly girls without a whole lot of weight anywhere else. Not that diet isn't important with all the other body types but with us in particular diet is of the upmost importance to trim belly fat. I know it. They know it. And our instructor knows it.
So every time we put the wrong things in our mouth our instructor leaps for joy because that means we'll never reach our goal and therefore will have to keep going to her class looking at her gorgeous body in quiet envy.
Always Dieting,
Skinny Fat
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Interesting Blogs of Note:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Last time I was in class I looked over the class make-up. All body types were represented. The fitness enthusiasts with already nicely shaped bodies, severely overweight people keeping up with the moves at a much slower pace but moving nonetheless. Then there were those in my category--the belly girls without a whole lot of weight anywhere else. Not that diet isn't important with all the other body types but with us in particular diet is of the upmost importance to trim belly fat. I know it. They know it. And our instructor knows it.
So every time we put the wrong things in our mouth our instructor leaps for joy because that means we'll never reach our goal and therefore will have to keep going to her class looking at her gorgeous body in quiet envy.
Always Dieting,
Skinny Fat
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Interesting Blogs of Note:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Tuesday, May 1, 2012
A Trip to the Doctor
A glimpse of the tears falling from my daughter's eyes as we awaited her pediatrician coming into the examination room indicated I'd done the right thing. The nurse had just weighed her and again the numbers were not in her favor.
My 17yr old daughter has been making some serious changes to her life in recent months trying to shed some pounds. Sure, she's faltered a few times but who hasn't on this crazy weight loss grind? Still with all the cut backs and sweat drenching bouts of working out that she's been doing, that damn scale read no different. At the worse, the numbers increased. More than she was discouraged, I was upset and concerned.
What if she had a medical condition that her pediatrician missed? A thyroid condition, maybe. All of my life, I've heard women complain about thyroid problems. Although my daughter is a teenager, for all I know, she could be suffering from something like that too.
Of course, I didn't want that to be the case, BUT, I did want the doctor to tell me something different than what I'd been preaching all along. Especially for the $25 copayment that I forked over for this appointment.
No such luck--for lack of a better phrase. With my own eyes I saw the results of my daughter's result of her last physical. Everything, specifically her thyroid test, was normal.
Nevertheless the appointment and $25 copayment was not totally in vain. For starters, the appointment alone indicated that I take my daughter's desire to lose weight seriously. Second, she got to hear from a professional--not mom--that her weight has EVERYTHING to do with what she's putting in her mouth. She learned that life isn't fair and that her metabolism doesn't work hard for her so she's got to make it. How? By taking control and empowering herself to make the changes in her life necessary to get what she wants.
After the appointment, my daughter didn't ask me to buy any fast food. Instead she cooked a turkey burger and mixed vegetable for dinner. Hopefully she stays on track.
I want this for her almost as bad as she does.
My 17yr old daughter has been making some serious changes to her life in recent months trying to shed some pounds. Sure, she's faltered a few times but who hasn't on this crazy weight loss grind? Still with all the cut backs and sweat drenching bouts of working out that she's been doing, that damn scale read no different. At the worse, the numbers increased. More than she was discouraged, I was upset and concerned.
What if she had a medical condition that her pediatrician missed? A thyroid condition, maybe. All of my life, I've heard women complain about thyroid problems. Although my daughter is a teenager, for all I know, she could be suffering from something like that too.
Of course, I didn't want that to be the case, BUT, I did want the doctor to tell me something different than what I'd been preaching all along. Especially for the $25 copayment that I forked over for this appointment.
No such luck--for lack of a better phrase. With my own eyes I saw the results of my daughter's result of her last physical. Everything, specifically her thyroid test, was normal.
Nevertheless the appointment and $25 copayment was not totally in vain. For starters, the appointment alone indicated that I take my daughter's desire to lose weight seriously. Second, she got to hear from a professional--not mom--that her weight has EVERYTHING to do with what she's putting in her mouth. She learned that life isn't fair and that her metabolism doesn't work hard for her so she's got to make it. How? By taking control and empowering herself to make the changes in her life necessary to get what she wants.
After the appointment, my daughter didn't ask me to buy any fast food. Instead she cooked a turkey burger and mixed vegetable for dinner. Hopefully she stays on track.
I want this for her almost as bad as she does.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
I'm so Ashamed
If you follow me on Twitter you notice today all the love I was giving to The Hollywood Trainer, Jeanette Jenkins. One would easily assume that I'm just finding about this African American fitness expert. While that's not the case, I haven't known about her that long. Maybe about as long as I've been tweeting my skinnyfat journey because she's one that I follow. Nonetheless, I didnt become enthralled with her until today for some reason. Not really sure why. I hope it has nothing to do with the adage about African American women not being able to celebrate each others successes and support each other. Because this woman is the BOMB! As an African American so-called fitness fanatic woman, it is shameful that I do not own an exercise DVD led by an African American, with the exception of an a step aerobics VHS that was included with the stepper I purchased when step aerobics was all the rave!
That all changes today. As much as I love my Chris Freytag workout DVD set and Denise Austin, it's past time for a splash of color.
Ironically I'm always telling my daughter not to try to model herself after our European counterparts always being thrown in our faces as the image we should be. "You need to look at black folks, those you share a likeness with," I tell her often.
Shouldn't I as well?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Monday, March 5, 2012
Skinny Fat Weight Loss Update
Yesterday I joined a new weight loss challenge. This one with my church. The good news is that my starting weight for this challenge is a whole whopping 3lbs less than where I started with the other challenge 4 weeks ago! Clearly, I'm doing something right this time as compared to the last 3 challenges I participated in over the last 2 yeras and I'm sure increasing the intensity of my frequent workouts had helped tremendously.
Wish me luck in keeping up the good work. I've got a good 20 more to go in the long run and a satisfactory 5-7 more in the next 2wks.
Check ya later!
SkinnyFat
Follow me on Twitter @skinnyfat
Wish me luck in keeping up the good work. I've got a good 20 more to go in the long run and a satisfactory 5-7 more in the next 2wks.
Check ya later!
SkinnyFat
Follow me on Twitter @skinnyfat
Thursday, March 1, 2012
SkinnyFat Workout Plans
My daughter was only speaking the truth when she said to me, "Ma, since you're skinny you're going to have to work out harder if you ever want to lose any weight." Harder meaning walking faster than 2.5 for 50 minutes on the treadmill. Harder meaning walking, instead, on 4.0 for 25 -30 minutes.
Is this fair? Absolutely not! However, if I want to do more than maintain my current weight, I HAVE to work my body hard. In retrospect, that's how I did it before. I hit the gym 3-4 days a week and walked and jogged on the treadmill and sometimes on the track. Then, I wasn't on the mission I'm on today. Then, I was working off the frustrations of a failing marriage. In those situations it's easy to--sometimes--to eat less and burn fat.
Today I'm motivated by a few factors:
1. I going to Vegas or Niagara Falls in a few weeks to get married. Ironic, huh?
2. Sometime this year or early next year I'm going on a cruise on plan to look fabulous in my swimsuit!
3. My best friend is getting married in October and whether or not I'm in the wedding party, I MUST look stunning in whatever dress I wear. This is my friend who rocked a bikini on the last cruise we went on last year.
4. Lastly, I want to be as close as possible to my ideal weight when I have that surgery I wrote about in a previous post.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Is this fair? Absolutely not! However, if I want to do more than maintain my current weight, I HAVE to work my body hard. In retrospect, that's how I did it before. I hit the gym 3-4 days a week and walked and jogged on the treadmill and sometimes on the track. Then, I wasn't on the mission I'm on today. Then, I was working off the frustrations of a failing marriage. In those situations it's easy to--sometimes--to eat less and burn fat.
Today I'm motivated by a few factors:
1. I going to Vegas or Niagara Falls in a few weeks to get married. Ironic, huh?
2. Sometime this year or early next year I'm going on a cruise on plan to look fabulous in my swimsuit!
3. My best friend is getting married in October and whether or not I'm in the wedding party, I MUST look stunning in whatever dress I wear. This is my friend who rocked a bikini on the last cruise we went on last year.
4. Lastly, I want to be as close as possible to my ideal weight when I have that surgery I wrote about in a previous post.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Saturday, February 25, 2012
My Little Secret
So far in my life when I've made major decisions I kept the details under wraps from those who have even the remotest influence over me. From remarrying my ex husband, to cutting my hair, I was able to follow my true hearts desire because I didn't have any naysayers in my ear. Hence why I'll be keeping my lips sealed about my plastic surgery plans.
Yep, I'm back to that again. Funny I always come back to it. This marks the sixth year that I've been toying with the idea of this quick fix. Until my mom advised me to wait until my son was like four or five, I'd planned to have the surgery after dedicating a solid year to eating right and consistently exercising. In the interim, Kanye West's mom died from complications on the surgery and the daughter of my moms friend complained that her stomach fat came back after having the surgery. Later, my boyfriend convinced me that the surgery wasn't worth the risk. He said I was sexy like just as was.
While that is true, at the end of the day I still can't stand the unsightly saggy skin that I've known as my stomach for the last 16 years. Of everyone in my family and circle of friends, I'm the most health conscience. I exercise more often than not. I stopped buying packages of junk food for my kitchen years ago. I hardly drink pop. I embrace opportunities to move my body. Still, this fat has made my belly its permanent home. How unfair is that?
Pride and fear also interfered with my plans. Having surgery made me feel like a failure, not to mention vain. Is it morally wrong to risk my life for sheer vanity? Then again, I'm not a 50 year old woman with high cholesterol or heart disease and such. Thanks to my years of trying to rid myself of this belly fat, I'm a pretty healthy person.
Exercising all of my adult life, I'm doubtful that I'll be one of those people who gain the weight back. This is a one time thing for me. No seconds, especially after what I've heard about the recovery process. I wouldn't be surprised if I was finally able to give up sugar and all forms of fast food to ensure no more fat settles around my belly EVER again!
I'll keep you posted!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Yep, I'm back to that again. Funny I always come back to it. This marks the sixth year that I've been toying with the idea of this quick fix. Until my mom advised me to wait until my son was like four or five, I'd planned to have the surgery after dedicating a solid year to eating right and consistently exercising. In the interim, Kanye West's mom died from complications on the surgery and the daughter of my moms friend complained that her stomach fat came back after having the surgery. Later, my boyfriend convinced me that the surgery wasn't worth the risk. He said I was sexy like just as was.
While that is true, at the end of the day I still can't stand the unsightly saggy skin that I've known as my stomach for the last 16 years. Of everyone in my family and circle of friends, I'm the most health conscience. I exercise more often than not. I stopped buying packages of junk food for my kitchen years ago. I hardly drink pop. I embrace opportunities to move my body. Still, this fat has made my belly its permanent home. How unfair is that?
Pride and fear also interfered with my plans. Having surgery made me feel like a failure, not to mention vain. Is it morally wrong to risk my life for sheer vanity? Then again, I'm not a 50 year old woman with high cholesterol or heart disease and such. Thanks to my years of trying to rid myself of this belly fat, I'm a pretty healthy person.
Exercising all of my adult life, I'm doubtful that I'll be one of those people who gain the weight back. This is a one time thing for me. No seconds, especially after what I've heard about the recovery process. I wouldn't be surprised if I was finally able to give up sugar and all forms of fast food to ensure no more fat settles around my belly EVER again!
I'll keep you posted!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Wednesday, February 15, 2012
Skinny Fat & Desperate Housewives
I'm just wondering why Lynette on Desperate Housewives was feeling self conscience about her body after having 5 kids! Have you seen the show? Do you know who Lynette is? She's one of the 4 slender main characters on the hit Sunday night drama.
Why in the world would her character or any of them for that matter pretend to have the body of a ordinary woman? The lines just didn't sit well with me. Maybe because of my belly fetish. Needless to say I felt insulted because if "Lynnette" is insecure about her body then its no wonder my insecurities are through the roof! SMH!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Why in the world would her character or any of them for that matter pretend to have the body of a ordinary woman? The lines just didn't sit well with me. Maybe because of my belly fetish. Needless to say I felt insulted because if "Lynnette" is insecure about her body then its no wonder my insecurities are through the roof! SMH!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Weight Loss Challenge
Here I go again. Its been a while since I've done it but I do agree with the fitness experts that it is necessary to change up your fitness routine from time to time. More so to avoid boredom than surprising my muscles as I've heard them say. Boredom can lead to quitting.
Anyway, a few days ago I added another fitness DVD to my collection. A 4 set DVD workout. It includes hip hop, belly dance, salsa cardio, and jazz dance. Doesn't that sound like fun? Adding this variety to my walk DVD, 10lb slim down Chris Freytag program, Zumba Fitness via the Wii game I should never get bored during this weight loss challenge. Perhaps a bit worn out but not bored.
Hopefully with all of this fitness fun I'll be having, I'll shed some of this belly too!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Anyway, a few days ago I added another fitness DVD to my collection. A 4 set DVD workout. It includes hip hop, belly dance, salsa cardio, and jazz dance. Doesn't that sound like fun? Adding this variety to my walk DVD, 10lb slim down Chris Freytag program, Zumba Fitness via the Wii game I should never get bored during this weight loss challenge. Perhaps a bit worn out but not bored.
Hopefully with all of this fitness fun I'll be having, I'll shed some of this belly too!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Friday, February 10, 2012
Inspired but Not to Run
For the not so private person it's pretty easy to find out various things about people. A few years ago when I first jumped on the Face Book bandwagon, like most, I started out searching for old classmates. Eventually I came across one particular girl who I remembered as being popular. Don't we always want to know about the popular bunch? But it was more than that curiousity that led me to investigate her page further. It was a picture of her in a bikini!With her two small kids! Oh, yeah. They were her kid, Her profile said so. First thing pops in my head is, "She's definitely a workoutaholic!" My assumption was confirmed when a recent post said that she is training for a 1/2 marathon!
Am I jealous? Yes! Envious? Yes! I long for that kind of athletic drive. Nearly five years ago I aspired to such athletic heights but I gave up the half-hearted dream, realizing that running was NOT something I really enjoyed. I was only interested in the flat abs of a runner.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Am I jealous? Yes! Envious? Yes! I long for that kind of athletic drive. Nearly five years ago I aspired to such athletic heights but I gave up the half-hearted dream, realizing that running was NOT something I really enjoyed. I was only interested in the flat abs of a runner.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Monday, February 6, 2012
Leaving the Foolish behind
My crazy ex- husband joined my kids and I at church yesterday. During the announcements a weight loss challenge was announced and he immediately looked my way.
"You're joining that, right?" He asks, expectantly.
If you follow my posts you'll know that he is the biggest enemy next to myself.
Nonchalantly, I say back, "Whatever." After a few more minutes of bantering he shoots back, "you were at your best in high school."
Huh! I thought to myself. Is that really the time in my life that he compares me to. Twenty years ago! I was less than a buck oh five in that day! I stopped desiring to get back to that at least ten years ago! Partly because I realized that it would never happen.
And I've been okay with that fact for quite some time. Unfortunately, other people aren't. That's why your weight loss goals have to be based on what you want, wants realistic and attainable for you. Shame on anyone else in your life who says differently.
So who are you losing weight for?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Thursday, February 2, 2012
FBW's Everywhere I Go
Satan is not nice. He knows just how to flaunt these FBW's (flat belly women) in my face at the worst possible times. Today for example. While I'm on my way to workout over my lunch, one of the FBW's who's always flaunting her flat belly and shapely figure with the tightest clothes ever, happens to walk past me. Not once y'all, but TWICE! What the hell is up with that?
This does not encourage me. It infuriates me to no end. Why? Because I'd rather be able to chill and relax over my lunch, maybe catch up on the office gossip with everyone else instead of going to exercise and sweat. And since, coincidentally, I don't hear these particular women talking about all of their exercising and dieting I feel a bit like crap because I have to work at keeping my figure from going totally out of control while it appears to be natural for them.
Now I don't know what they do behind closed doors. I'd like to to say they've all had plastic surgery or maybe they're popping appetitie suppressing pills or something. Either way, it sucks!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
This does not encourage me. It infuriates me to no end. Why? Because I'd rather be able to chill and relax over my lunch, maybe catch up on the office gossip with everyone else instead of going to exercise and sweat. And since, coincidentally, I don't hear these particular women talking about all of their exercising and dieting I feel a bit like crap because I have to work at keeping my figure from going totally out of control while it appears to be natural for them.
Now I don't know what they do behind closed doors. I'd like to to say they've all had plastic surgery or maybe they're popping appetitie suppressing pills or something. Either way, it sucks!
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
2012 Weight Loss Challenge
Signing my name on that dotted I shook my head in utter disbelief. Here I was, again signing up for another weight loss challenge. After 3 ( dare I say 4) failed attempts to achieve my weight loss goal through other challenges--including Weight Watchers I told myself I wouldn't do this again. Must be my addiction to doing everything I can to trim this middle. Not to mention my obsession with joining stuff.
Another reason I wasn't going to join was fear of the weekly weigh in. That can be very discouraging when others are joyful because they lost 3-4 lbs and you only lost .5, which was probably water weight. Thankfully, this challenge is focusing on group activities and team work between team members. Winning is based on a combination of weight loss (individually and team) as well as group participation in the planned activities. Cool, huh? Group activities include mall walking, which I absolutely love, two boot camp sessions, which my sister--my partner--enjoys, and group classes for Pilates, Zumba, and Yoga.
I love this set up and can't wait for the end. Oh and get this. The program ends with a Community Health Fair where the winners will be announced. I'm pretty excited!
How are you battling your bulge in 2012?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Another reason I wasn't going to join was fear of the weekly weigh in. That can be very discouraging when others are joyful because they lost 3-4 lbs and you only lost .5, which was probably water weight. Thankfully, this challenge is focusing on group activities and team work between team members. Winning is based on a combination of weight loss (individually and team) as well as group participation in the planned activities. Cool, huh? Group activities include mall walking, which I absolutely love, two boot camp sessions, which my sister--my partner--enjoys, and group classes for Pilates, Zumba, and Yoga.
I love this set up and can't wait for the end. Oh and get this. The program ends with a Community Health Fair where the winners will be announced. I'm pretty excited!
How are you battling your bulge in 2012?
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: http://www.lajefferson.com/
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com/
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com/
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com/
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com/
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Bankruptcy on Belly Fat
My finances were heavy on my mind as I laid in bed last night. Seems like all of my adult life I've been trying to get out of debt just like I've been trying to lose the same belly fat--maybe a little extra--that I got after I had my first child. Before I fell asleep a thought passed through mind. "Too bad I can't file bankruptcy on this belly fat like I can for my debt." At least not for $2k or less.
LaCharmine (L.A.) Jefferson
Author, Writer, Blogger
Website: www.lajefferson.com
Blogs by me:
L.A.'s Literary Love Life@ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
A Day in the Life of L.A. Jefferson @ http://lajefferson.blogspot.com
All Things Love @ http://all-things-love.blogspot.com
Naturally L.A. @ http://naturallyla.wordpress.com
Surviving Work @ http://survivingmydayjob.wordpress.com
Follow me on Twitter @lajefferson
Friday, January 13, 2012
A Good Day/week
After I was't able to make it to Zumba class on Monday, I'd pretty much given up on exercising this week. Not because I'm a quitter but because the rest of the week was jammed pack with other stuff and I let those things zap my motivation to do anything else. My friend at work had another plan. Better than mine. On Tuesday, no It was Wednesday, she asked me to go down to our fitness center at work over lunch and do a mile or two of my walking video. Did you catch that? My walking video! I could've been doing that all along--Zumba or not. Duh! Obviously, the motivation wasn't there beyond the plan for Zumba. As it stands I owe this weeks motivation to my work workout buddy!
Did anybody help you this week?
Did anybody help you this week?
Monday, January 9, 2012
Fitness Girl Crush
A girl crush refers to the infatuation that one heterosexual woman develops for another woman who may seem impossibly sophisticated, gifted, beautiful or accomplished. It's completely healthy and I'm not ashamed to admit that I have one. On my Zumba fitness instructor. Quite frankly, she has the best body I've seen on a African American female fitness instructor who wasn't on television! It's much more visually inspiring than the last AA female fitness instructor I went to whose belly was questionably NOT flat. Maybe she'd recently given birth. I don't know. What I do know is that I expect someone helping me get fit to already be fit themselves. Not just "healthy" fit, but "hot" fit! No worries with my new instructor. Her body simply rocks! And gosh darn it! I want it!
Guess I better keep going to her class, huh? And find out what she eats on a daily basis.
Want to share your fitness girl crush? Comment below.
Skinny Fat
Guess I better keep going to her class, huh? And find out what she eats on a daily basis.
Want to share your fitness girl crush? Comment below.
Skinny Fat
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Zumba, Here I Come...Hopefully
I want to go to Zumba today. Really, I do. But I'm fighting this voice in the back of my heading saying, "You're just trying to be like most of America this week, kick starting a weight loss plan that you're not going to keep up with." Pure negativity, I know. Still the voice is loud and clear.
In my defense, however, Monday and Tuesday, and sometimes Fridays, I always think about going to Zumba class. After attending The B.O.M.B. Fitness Parties, LLC Zumba class, led by instructor Diamond, it's hard not to miss going. Unfortunately, after a long day of sitting at a desk, looking at a computer screen I feel compelled to go home do the same thing. Go figure. Sometimes, on a good day, I may be otherwise inclined to pop in a exercise DVD, in which I don't have to spend anymore money on. However, I don't get anything close to the workout I get with Diamond, nor have anything close to the fun!
If I could just change my mindset, get over this hurdle, I know I can commit 2 measly days to a fun, exciting exercise class. It'll be worth the $14/week it'll cost me. When my belly starts dwindling down, it will be. Not to mention, if I stick to it throughout the winter months, I'll be something close to beach body ready for the summer--maybe even a sexy wedding dress by spring. Heck, the money's going to get spent on something or another anyway, right? May as well be a better body for me.
In my defense, however, Monday and Tuesday, and sometimes Fridays, I always think about going to Zumba class. After attending The B.O.M.B. Fitness Parties, LLC Zumba class, led by instructor Diamond, it's hard not to miss going. Unfortunately, after a long day of sitting at a desk, looking at a computer screen I feel compelled to go home do the same thing. Go figure. Sometimes, on a good day, I may be otherwise inclined to pop in a exercise DVD, in which I don't have to spend anymore money on. However, I don't get anything close to the workout I get with Diamond, nor have anything close to the fun!
If I could just change my mindset, get over this hurdle, I know I can commit 2 measly days to a fun, exciting exercise class. It'll be worth the $14/week it'll cost me. When my belly starts dwindling down, it will be. Not to mention, if I stick to it throughout the winter months, I'll be something close to beach body ready for the summer--maybe even a sexy wedding dress by spring. Heck, the money's going to get spent on something or another anyway, right? May as well be a better body for me.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
Happy New Year
Of course, everyone follows suit with their New Year's resolution on the first day of the new year. And the first week, for that matter. I'm no different. Still I can't help reporting my success on this first day. Gotta celebrate the small successes, right? Right. So here we go...
We woke up late this morning and after dancing for two hours straight at the New Edition concert, I was hardly planning to cook breakfast. Off to brunch we went. Kerby Coney Island. Whereas my usual meal would have been a Belgian waffle, scrambled eggs, and turkey sausage, this morning--afternoon, actually--I opted for an egg white omelet, with 1/2 an order of hash browns, and only a few squares of my son's pancakes. A couple of hours later I was at my mom's for her traditional New Year's dinner of black eyed peas, greens, and baked chicken. Delicious & healthy!
If I keep this up, I'll be skinny-fat no more!
Happy New Year
We woke up late this morning and after dancing for two hours straight at the New Edition concert, I was hardly planning to cook breakfast. Off to brunch we went. Kerby Coney Island. Whereas my usual meal would have been a Belgian waffle, scrambled eggs, and turkey sausage, this morning--afternoon, actually--I opted for an egg white omelet, with 1/2 an order of hash browns, and only a few squares of my son's pancakes. A couple of hours later I was at my mom's for her traditional New Year's dinner of black eyed peas, greens, and baked chicken. Delicious & healthy!
If I keep this up, I'll be skinny-fat no more!
Happy New Year
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