I actually MISS FT already!!!

It's been a week since my last assessment and I figured I'd be thrilled to have the time freed up right before the holidays...there's plenty of holiday party preparations, decorating, wrapping gifts, etc. to keep me busy.

The truth is, I miss the intense workouts, and the way the sessions were carved into my day like appointments, keeping me accountable and giving the day more structure. I miss the daily email reminders from Anna, and greetings by the familiar faces I've come to know (both trainers and clients).

Okay, back to addressing my Christmas cards! Happy Holidays everyone! :)))

Thank you!

Just want to thank everyone who came out to support Cherish and I on Sunday night. It was wonderful to see so many of you there for us. You're the best!

And saying thank you just doesn't seem to cut it for the team involved in this project----April, Jose, Anthony, Nichole, Phil and the rest of the team at Indra; Amy at dresscode; Dr Nahata and and staff; and of course Lisa, Anna, Brian, Sam, Dorothy, Billy, and Steve at FT.

It was so much fun and so much work, but it was worth it! :))

See you all tomorrow for the BIG REVEAL!

Glory Restaurant
Essex Street, Andover
4 pm Sunday 12/8

BE THERE! :)))

Whoo hoo!!!

I am delighted with the final assessment results that were recorded this evening. I am also so thrilled for my "team extreme" partner Cherish---you go girl! Want to know the results? If so, you'll have to show up at the Big Reveal on Sunday!!
It was very sad saying goodbye to Brian, who's been my primary trainer and key to much of my success. He's absolutely pushed me when I wanted to give up and without that I know I wouldn't have done nearly as well as I have.
Phil at Indra needs a huge thank you today for having the guts to watch 4 of our kids in the back of Indra Salon so Cherish and I could have pictures taken in April and Jose's chairs and then for a jaunt over to dresscode for a pose or two. I had to bribe the heck out of my boys----4 pm is a tough time of day to expect them to be on their best behavior.
My husband Bill is very ready, I'm sure, to have life back to pre-makeover status. He's gotten accustomed over the years to having his own time after work (from 2:40 on) to go to the gym, work, run to the store, and "whatever". It's been hard on him to have to share the afternoons/evenings. He's taken on much of the kids' dinners and bedtimes. Thank you Billy.

Lisa L and Alli and Dad---I wish you could make it---I'll send photos! xo

Going out with a Bang!

They switched up the workouts again this week---back to the difficult full body workouts one day, core/cardio interval the next. These interval workouts cause you to just drip sweat! Very challenging...and fun. Looking forward to an insane workout tomorrow night with Sam and Dorothy!

Make it a great week everyone,
Cheryl

PS For all of you who attended the Andover Santa Parade yesterday, yes I was in the parade with the boys, and my husband was the snowman! We had alot of fun and the kids mobbed Bill like he was a rock star!

Where Did the Time Go?

I can't believe the final weigh in is THIS WEEK!!!! We're going to have such a fun week with final workouts, hair, makeup, new outfits, and the big party on Sunday! It's going to be like a reunion or something---I've got alot of friends coming and it will be fabulous to have them all in the same room together----old work friends, playgroup moms, volunteering friends, whitewater rafting friends, old school pals. It's so nice that so many people are coming out for this event---I really appreciate everyone's support and friendship, it means so much!
Lisa (FT's owner) is very thoughtful and really wants to see us succeed long after the Extreme Makeover is over. She's planning to meet with us to work out a continued fitness and nutrition plan to make sure we stay on track.

Feaster Five Fun!

The Feaster Five was awesome this morning---I've got the road race bug now! How fun and exciting to be running amongst 8000+ others. It was neat having both the 5K and 5 mile start and end at the same lines, but separate in the middle. We all converged together to complete the race. I'm happy that I was able to run the whole course, including the hill at the end. And I am very proud to say that I crossed the finish line before my trainer Anna. Of course, she ran the 5 miler and I did the 5 K :)) My FT blog buddy Erik made great time too!
No thanks to Brutal Brian, my trainer last night, who made me to hamstrings and quads to infinity----starting with 140 squats. Boy was it hard to get out of bed for the race this morning. He said I'd thank him later for making me do it, but I'm not so sure about that :)
In other news. my EM cohort Cherish spent a big chunk of yesterday at Indra----I won't "reveal" what they did to her hair, but I will say WOW!!! I never saw it before, but I think she looks like Jodie Foster!
My next race (undecided on if it will happen) involves a 3:30 wakeup so I can hit the "doorbusters" on Black Friday.

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!

To Erik

Erik, you are invited to the Reveal Party. I hope you can attend!

12 days and counting

Yikes! I can't believe we're in the home stretch! I've loved this experience---it's one of the best things I've ever done. But, in the same token, it's going to be nice to focus on some other things that have had to sometimes take a back seat---I've sort of compartmentalized things in my life so I could stay focused. After the reveal party on Sunday 12/7, I'll take care of a little medical issue, spend some really good quality time with each of my boys, make up for lost time with my husband, and get ready for the holidays. Oh, and buy some clothes that actually fit! :) I will also be looking for a gym (any suggestions?) and a job (anyone hiring?).

I absolutely will continue to follow the nutritional and fitness guidelines that have been personalized for me. I have learned so much about myself and my body. I feel so great right now---healthy and not starving! I intend to lose another 10-12 pounds after it's over, and see how I feel there. I know I'll never go back to how I was. Lisa showed me my "before" pictures, taken after I won the contest and Indra Salon---it's not pretty! I had a 'Jabba the Hut' chin and a nasty little muffin top!!!

We did photos today with Anna and Sam. And a mini-reassessment. Oh, and I picked up my race shirt, chip and number today---I'm so excited to run, I mean SLOG (=slow jog) my first Feaster Five!!

Checking in...

Thank you Nichole for another wonderful facial. I like the "nuturing" aromatherapy tonight---she always starts off with a little aromatherapy moment, where you choose from three scents to have infused into the facial. My favorite, favorite part of all is when she massages my scalp!!! A couple days before the reveal I'll visit her one last time for a quick brow wax followed by a DMR (?) treatment with Paula, which is some sort of ultrasonic skin treatment.

Really looking forward to a good morning workout tomorrow with Brian. My Mother-in-law Mary was sweet enough to watch the boy for me, so I'm going in early. It will be a nice change to be able to not have to haggle over times and schedules tomorrow night with Bill....it's been a big change for him to have to "work with me" over these last few months. Prior to the EM, he didn't have to always ask about staying late at work (or whatever), he just did it. Now we have to plan the week ahead on Sunday and then check in for changes all week. But, it works and it's worth it. My four year old seemed resentful at first, not wanting me to leave to workout. He'd cry, tell me not to leave, etc. Now he just knows it's his "daddy time" and gets it. He's learned that what I'm doing is important so that I'm happy and healthy and can take better care of my family. He tells me that he exercises to stay healthy too. That makes me feel really proud! :)

One week from tomorrow is the Feaster Five. Seems like half the people I talk to in Andover participate in it. I'm really excited for it----I really don't have any set time goal, I just want to get through it. I've been getting shin splints toward the end, so I'm trying to increase my endurance and speed as much as I can without making it worse. I'll run/walk the course tomorrow, just to get a better feel for the streets and hills.

Went to Market Basket for chicken (my staple food these days) and noticed my photo on the cover page of the Townsman...an article about the Feaster Five....then another article about the EM on page 14...I've never been in the newspaper twice in the same issue, til today....I may have to start dressing incognito soon :)))

Etc.

Okay, lots to tell. Met with Amy from dresscode. She's planning to wait until we're near the very end of the EM, and then have us come in and have fun trying on different styles. She told Cherish she'll take us out of our "comfort zones".
Interviewed with Bethany Bray from the Townman for the EM, who was doing a little follow up article on how things are going. She'll be at the Reveal 12/7.
Training as best I can for the Feaster Five. This weekend I did the route, walking the first half, running the second. It's a nice route, with a couple good hills. My shins were on fire at the end! Another reporter interviewed me and some high school boys at the starting line. That article and a photo of me and the boys will also be in the Townsman. Their "angle" was having the young athletes speak to the mom/Feaster Five rookie about what to expect.
Visiting my aesthetician friend Nicole on Wednesday for a facial at Indra. I love the sensitive skin Aveda lotion and cleanser she gave me last visit.
This week continues high weights, low reps. It's the type of exercise that makes you feel like you're a wimp in spite of the fact that you know you're stronger, because you're constantly working to the max. If you can do 10 reps, the weights go up! Tonight was all upper extremity---chest and arms. Definitely where I need more strength. Tomorrow is lower extremity and abs. That's the workout that really makes me sweat!
Happy Birthday to trainer Brian this Friday!!! What a guy...he'll be spending his 23rd birthday night training yours truly. Happy Birthday also to my cousin Jason!
Thanks to Cherish for letting me borrow the double jogger stroller today....what a workout pushing a stroller can be when your boys total 65 pounds!
I just love, love, love my teeth---veneers ROCK!
So happy that Aunt Mimi had a great outcome after her surgery last week---we love you!


Down 21 pounds. And counting...

25 days!

There are 25 days left before this Extreme Makeover comes to an end. I'm really excited and proud of accomplishing so much in this short time, but also a little sad to see it coming to an end!
Having a deadline has always been good for me----knowing how many days are left makes me more focused and task oriented.
I really love the workouts we're doing this week---it's alot of heavy weights and really pushing myself to the max. I think I may be able to do my first "man push up" soon :)

I want to send my thoughts to "Auntie Mimi" (my uncle's wife Lisa)---I hope you have a speedy recovery. We love you! :)

Dress Code

Well I finally got the opportunity to visit Dress Code today. There is a nice mix of beautiful clothing in there---some cool vintage looks, great jeans, hip boots and shoes, and dresses fit for the Oscars (like a teal green gown with jeweled shoulders in the window display right now). There was a gorgeous dress in hues of pink that caught my eye the most---it was just so pretty (and a style that I wouldn't have considered ever trying on "pre-EM"!)

I really enjoy just walking around in downtown Andover (especially without both kiddos in tow). There are some great stores and with the nice weather today, everyone was out and about.

On my way out of town, I flew into FT to do a quick mile on the treadmill before Billy closed up. Brian had me doing 1/2 mile fast runs on the treadmill yesterday and got me thinking about trying to improve my time. I'm a slow-poke runner, and it never really occured to me to try to run faster, only to try to run long enough to get through a 5K. But I'm going to switch around my thinking for these last 4 weeks and run for distance and not for time. So, for example, I ran 1 mile in 9:56 today. Instead of doing a 10 minute run before a training session, I'll now run a mile as fast as I can (or 2 mile, 3 mile, etc) and try to always beat the best time. I think I'm going to need to get new sneakers---my treads are wearing out like the tires on my car are :)

Back to Dress Code for a second. Amy, the owner, wasn't in this morning, but I think she has some clothing in mind for Cherish and I already. I'm curious to talk with her about what styles she feels would work best for our new body shapes. I don't even know for sure what size I am anymore, let alone what cuts and lengths I should be looking for! I'm really looking forward to going out after the holidays are over (hopefully with a few nice gift cards from Santa!) to buy some "small clothes". Although I've had this weight loss plateau over the last couple weeks, I can tell that my body is changing and inches are dropping/shifting by the way clothes fit. Most of the jeans I'm wearing now can be taken off without unbuttoning them!

I hope everyone is having a nice weekend!

Brutal Brian strikes back!

Whoo hoo Brian is all business this week with me, and I love it. Don't get me wrong, I throw him evil eyes and pouts and stares, and every bit of it hurts, but I don't even dare to complain to him. Tonight was another total body workout, and it was all changed up from the TBW on Monday. Moving from one exercise to the next so quickly, and doing higher sets of reps really makes it as much of a cardio workout as a strength training one. Whew! I felt great walking out of there!!!
I call him Brutal, but I mean it in the most respectful way! I would never ever have worked out so hard alone. He pushes me to maximize every second there. I really appreciate it, despite my whiny complaints.
My friend Crystal is going to come workout with Anna at the same time I work out with Brian tomorrow----it will be a fun time!

December 5th

Hair design will be done by April on the Friday before the Reveal. Cherish and I will get to hang out together there for a few hours while we get primped.

Beautiful!

Oh my gosh I love my veneers! They are so beautiful. Keri at the dental practice is a doll---she actually came in early just to be there this morning. And when she, Donna and Dr. Nahata took a look at the veneers in my mouth, they decided that they wanted them brighter. They seemed pretty good to me, what do I know, but I appreciated how they wanted to be sure to get the color just right. So I came back early this evening with brighter, whiter veneers fresh back from the lab. I wish I could buy everyone in that office a really nice gift---they are all so great!

Awesome new workouts this week!

The total body workout with Brian Monday was just fantastic. I felt like I'd accomplished so much in a short time. Then yesterday Dorothy spend an entire session with me on some midsection strengthening---awesome exercises that you can actual feel working those hard to reach spots around your waist!!! At one point, Dorothy (and Anna) were both on the floor with me, helping me focus on some really tough dynamic plank execises.
I skipped cardio yesterday as I evidentally caught a bit of the bug that my kids had over the weekend and I've been wheezing and coughing since Monday. I'll take a quick (hopefully quick) trip to the PCP today to see if I need meds. I hate not doing cardio now that I'm in thr routine!
And yes, I am doing the Feaster Five. Probably the 5K run portion. I have several friends who will be there walking and running. Looking forward to it!!!
Oh, can't remember if I mentionned it already, but the "BIG reveal party" is going to be at Glory Restaurant in Andover on Sunday, December 7th at 4 p.m. Yay!!!!

How can it be November already?!?!

Wow time is flying! There is still lots to do before the big reveal, which has been tentatively scheduled for 12/7. I intend to drop another 10+ pounds by then. Cherish and I took a hike today which was terrific (thanks Cherish!). Thank goodness that she won this thing with me---it's been really helpful mentally (and child-care wise!) to have her going through the process with me. I do really miss out core workouts together in the beginning---lots of fun working together, and I'm hoping we'll be able to do a little more of that before it's over. I'm going to have a couple friends join me for a workout this month, so they can see where I've been so much and check FT out for themselves.
On Thursday Dr. Nahata will complete the dental transformation by giving me permanent veneers. So exciting! After having the same dentist my entire life, I am finally moving on to this dental practice from now on----they are AWESOME!
Many of you know that I had a minor medical procedure last month---everything came back fine in that regard---yay! And I get to postpone the other procedure until after the reveal party in December.
Brian gave me a super crazy workout session on Friday----I sure feel it today. Lunges up the ying-yang! :) I told him to be tough on me this month, and he obviously listened. I can't wait to start the week tomorrow!

Workout Photo Session and Sick Kids

Tonight was different than the typical FT session. When I got to my training suite, a photographer had set up special lighting and was ready to photograph the session. She was really nice and made me feel immediately comfortable (although it was hard to act like she wasn't in the room!)

Today, Carter has a cold. He spent the bulk of the afternoon laying on me, full of boogers and coughing. When Will got home from school, I found a note in his bag saying they noticed his eye seemed red. I ran him to the doctor's before the session---he has conjunctivitis and probable ear infection. After the session I was off to the pharmacy to get the antibiotics (his first time on them!). Plus, my husband has a nasty head cold too! So needless to say, there wasn't a lot of exercise going on here today. Even the workout session was a little wimpier than normal, as we had to accomodate the angles and lighting for the photography. Oh well, stuff happens!

Happy Halloween!

Thanks Nicole!

Nicole is our aesthetician at Indra. She give us these wonderful plant peel facials, which are a new Aveda peel that is good for sensitive skin / rosacea, but really gives you a good exfoliation, unlike alot of products for sensitive skin.
It was so cold tonight as I was coming in, and I saw the first flakes of snow. In Nicole's little facial room, I was pampered head to toe with warm blankets and towels, a thermal facial, scalp massage, aromatherapy. I could SO get used to this!!! :)

Getting there

Another assessment tonight----the numbers are going down---obviously in the right direction. I'm planning to go really hard core for the month of November in order to make the numbers jump! More cardio, more jogging, more intense with the nutrition---the works!
I hope Cherish did well tonight too with her assessment.
It's funny how even though I've lost alot of fat, lbs and inches, and clothes now fit that didn't before, and people tell me I'm smaller, I don't really feel alot different. How do you get your mind in line with the rest of you???

Time off is hard to do!!!

I had a minor procedure done Friday morning and, in turn, have not been able to exercise. It's miserable!!! With just weeks left before the big Reveal, every day counts. Lisa (FT owner and our nutrition guru) broke her foot last month, and I completely get the frustration she feels at not being able to work out regularly, even if for me it's only a few days---it just becomes a part of you and your routine. Hopefully I'll be back in the swing of things tomorrow.

The temporary teeth are in, and I go to the color lab tomorrow so that the exact shade of white porcelin can be decided upon for the real teeth, which I'll get next Thursday. Dr. Nahata insists on getting the shade just right (which I appreciate). They have you go outside, under different kinds of lights indoors, in shady areas---to see if the color is just right in all different lighting. I can't wait to get the new teeth, in part because I have this one little piece of (plastic from the teeth, I think) something stuck between the back of these temporaries and is driving me nuts. I keep rubbing my tongue over it trying to make it go away! Because these teeth are bonded together, I cannot floss beteen them to get rid of it! I guess it will make me all the more grateful for the real ones :)

As Halloween approaches, I can proudly say that I have not had any candy. I proposely bought some of the non-chocolate ones that aren't my favorites (skittles, popcorn balls, etc)

I believe there is another reassessment scheduled this week or next, so I look forward to those results. My husband told me today I look as small as I did pre-wedding 5 years ago (and I'm wearing those clothes again too!) I am really looking forward to a little shopping spree at Macy's when this is over---I love that they have a free personal shopper to help you find the best clothes for your shape and size (I asked Santa for Macy's gift cards) :)))

Will visit with Nicole at Indra on Wednesday. My sensitive skin isn't too happy with the product she gave me to use, so she said we may have to switch it up. I really love the Smooth Infusion hair products April gave us from Aveda---they smell great and really help with flyaways and frizzies!

I miss the workouts I used to have with Cherish early on, so I'm hoping that maybe she and I can work out a plan to work out together again, whether it be on Sundays outdoors or during FT sessions. I hope she's as ready as I am about pushing hard to make the last few weeks of this EM really, really count.

Fun Workout with Sam!

I had such a fun workout with Sam! I was doing the highest leg weights yet, the music was fun, and we did some really great new ab exercises that I loved---push ups where you come up and throw a ball at the trainer, bring it back, and do it again. Abs with a stability ball which goes from your hands to your feet and back again. Leg raises where you bring your legs up straight and the trainer, standing behind your head, takes your legs and pushes them back down, or to the left or right-you have to keep them front hitting the floor. Super-planks. Fun stuff!
I think I swept my tongue over my front teeth 80 times while I was there----I still can't get over how straight they are! My dear friend Crystal gave me beautiful birthday flowers when I saw her on the way to the gym---I brought them in to share with the staff at FT while I worked out--they were too pretty to leave in the car!
As of tonight my official FT numbers show me down 18.6 pounds!

Thank you Dr. Nahata

Just have to tell everyone in cyperspace---Dr. Nahata (and his assistant Keri) are geniuses! My teeth are sensational!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I don't even know how in words to thank them enough---what a great birthday gift :)))

If you are thinking about cosmetic dentistry or just need a good dentist, this is the place (they do see kids too)

Drs. Cooper, Spillman, Nahata and Associates
1418 Main Street, Tewksbury
978 851 7890
infa@tewksburyfamilydentist.com

New Teeth Day!!!

In two and a half hours, I will be sitting in Dr. Nahata's chair saying sayonara to my 2 crooked front teeth! They have always, always been something that bothered me. As a stay at home mom, it just wasn't something that I felt I could justify doing for myself. I am so excited!!!!!!

Go Sox!

I always feel sore two days later. Hence today, the Friday workout has proven to be a good one. Dorothy had me doing a lot of different exercises that I haven't done. But you'd think I hadn't been exercising at all for the last couple months! Both my hams and quads are miserable today---I'm reminded every time I climb up stairs and sit in a chair :)

Lisa changed up the nutrition, reducing the carbs and fats for the weekend, and it's definitely been a challenge---my energy level is way down and I'm pretty crabby too(!) It makes you appreciate carbs and fats when you don't get to eat them!!!

Congrats to Anna and Eric on your run today---sorry I wasn't able to join you this time.

Aren't the Red Sox amazing? Just when you think they aren't going to make it this year, they surprise us all by coming back again and again. Bill went to the store this morning in his Red Sox sweatshirt and bunch of strangers, obviously RS fans, high-fived him! We really are living in Red Sox Nation here! Go Sox!!!

Changing up the workouts!

The last 2 days at the gym have been really fun. The trainers changed up the routines on me, unexpectedly. Brian helped me find my abs again (not the whole 6 pack, yet, but we're progressing!). We did a ton of awesome ab exercises and also did some interval exercises. I was spent by the time I left.
Then this morning Dorothy had me do a bunch of lower extremity work---some of the exercises I had never done before. And more abs (on the ball). There are a few steps leading out of the training area, and boy did I feel it as I ascended them!!!

Just say NO!!!

Today alone, I've had to say no to the following foods that were right in front of my face: apple cider donuts (yummy), cookies, cake, cider, hot chocolate, mozzerella sticks, pizza, and ravioli. Just today!!! I'm becoming proficient in just saying NO!!!

As we sit here in disbelief because the MLB playoff game is not on the TV right now due to technical difficulties, I feel triumphant about all that I said no to. I've found the key to making this work is to always, always have good food choices available. I am sure to have nuts, preportioned and cooked chicken (in a cooler), protein shakes, or carrots with me wherever I go. When you're not hungry, it's so much easier to say no!

Here comes a great week! :)

Did my first day of jog/run intervals tonight---this week is a split of 2 steady state, 2 HIIT (high intensity interval) and 2 3 minute interval sessions. Lisa has asked that I continue the new nutrition cycle for this week, after a 2.2 lb. loss last week. I can tell it will be a challenging, but rewarding week!

Halfway!

When we started the makeover, I marked off this weekend as being the likely halfway point. I can't believe how fast it's gone by! There's alot of progress already, but still much to do! I am starting to find the nutrition aspect of the FT program becoming second nature. The cycling of the fuels is still a challenge to get it just right---but I'm finding myself not going for the usual past fast food/junk food that really isn't fuel at all---the refined, starchy carbs and sugars that hooks us in to Dunkin's and Mickey D's.
The fitness portion is pretty easy, as the trainers are there to make sure you don't mess it up. The cardio is starting to als become just something that has to fit in to the course of the day most days. It's not "if", it's "when".
I'm looking forward to a great coming week!

Coming up this week...

Lisa has changed up our nutrition and exercise plan for the upcoming week! Exercise will entail full body high weight/low rep exercise and interval cardio workouts. Nutrition-wise, we will cycle our fuels (carbs. and fats) differently, which I'm looking forward to (although there's sadly still no ice cream or donuts in the plan!)
Dr. Nahata's staff planned to Zoom my teeth, but they've gotten so much whiter that we all decided it's probably not needed. I'll visit with them again Thursday.
On Tuesday I'll get my first in a series of facials at Indra, which I am very much looking forward to!
I hope everyone has a nice week! :)

The great thing about FT...

Someone just asked me what I like best about FT and if I'd recommend they join. I honestly have to say that if you're looking for the most efficient way to workout, FT is definitely the way to go. The amount that you accomplish in one session is awesome. The trainers have your workouts already pre-determined, so you literally just follow their plan. They set the weight, count your reps, and chart your process. There is no waiting for machines, no need to clean off equipment, no guesswork. The trainers know when to push you and add weight or reps and when to ease up. They make sure you're using correct form too, so you're not worrying about injuring yourself. I had a trial membership at a local gym in January and ended up with a shoulder injury that still bothers me. Because I'm always lifting and carrying a toddler, I never really get a chance to heal. I can't imagine ever injuring myself this way at FT.
The other thing that is nice at FT is that you NEVER have to wait---when you have a 6:00 appointment, your trainer has already set up your room and is ready for you. Plus, if you arrive early, there's always a cardio machine waiting for you! As biased as it may sound, I truly would recommend FT to anyone who needs to maximize their time!

First visit to Indra

Yesterday afternoon I met with April and Jose from Indra Salon, as well as their aesthetician Nicole. April and Jose determined how they would cut my hair for the reveal party. Nicole determined the best type of facial for me and we'll be starting a regime every few weeks. They gave me a bag full of Aveda hair and skin products---Billy just laughed at how excited I got pulling all of them out of the bag and trying them out when I got home!
Lisa worked out an intensive workout schedule for Cherish and I to follow for the next few weeks---I'm looking forward to changing up the training sessions. We'll also be starting some high intensity cardio intervals.

Time to Zoom

I visited with the always awesome Dr. Nahata today. We're going to Zoom my teeth next Thursday. If you've ever seen the TV Extreme Makeover, that's the treatment where they have the light on your teeth for about an hour.

Dr. Nahata is also giving me an awesome birthday gift this year, as he scheduled my new veneers to be done the day after my 37th birthday!

Cherish went for her first facial at Indra yesterday and raved about it---I can hardly wait to get there myself tomorrow!

Down a Pant Size!

Yahoo---the pants I wore "pre-FT" are just huge now. My "tight pants" are pretty loose too! The belt buckle is a good 3-4 notches over.
I've decided to pack up the clothes as they no longer fit and give to charity. I don't intend to be those sizes ever again, and it's just psychological torture to have bins of clothes that are too big taking up closet space.
The only stinky thing (but worth it) is that I really need some winter clothes. There isn't really any point in buying anything now, because I'm just going to get smaller and not fit into them! Maybe I'll just buy shoes :)

Cute

My four year old Will got home from school and the first thing he asked was "Mommy, are you going to the gym tonight?" to which I replied yes. I expected his usual frown and explaination of why I really should stick around. Instead he told me I had a nice shirt on today, and that he loved me. I asked if he knew why I was going to the gym and he said it was to get healthy. I asked him why I was eating Ezekiel bread with almond butter and he said because it's good for me and will help me live a long time. He then told me that it was important that I live a long time because he still needs me to help him get dressed.
I love the way kids think :)

5K time!

Today my hamstrings feel back to normal and I can run again. I am signing up for my 1st 5K road race in 7 years---the Trot for Special Tots whic raises money for the Professional Center for Child Development in Andover (http://www.theprofessionalcenter.org/). I checked out the course today and it looks pretty do-able. I increased my running time on the treadmill today to a total of 20 minutes. Anna, my wonderful trainer, offered to run the race me. It would be sort of a cool down for her, after doing a half marathon the weekend before. So sweet of her to offer to join me---FT is really great in that way---the trainers are so personally involved in your success.
If anyone is interested in making a road race pledge, to support theProfessional Center's early intervention and special needs programs, you may send check to me payable to PCCD.

A Little Fun This Week

I'm thrilled to get a little fun in this crazy week. Saturday I used a gift certificate toward a manicure and pedicure. Will loved that I had my toes painted the color of his choice (sparkly royal blue). It was nice to get in a little pampering, especially my feet, which have become rough and blistered from all the cardio.
Tomorrow I visit Dr Nahata for a teeth check. It's always fun to visit there....they make us feel like celebrities! Friday (finally!!!) I get the pleasure of meeting April and Jose and the crew at Indra, where they will determine how hair, skin, and makeup will all go.
Sorry I haven't posted in the last few days (or Vitabotted for that matter) our computer was down for a few days.

Thank you!

Just wanted to send out a quick thank you to all my friends, family, and fellow FT'ers who have been encouraging me---your support means so much!

Hamstrings are KILLING ME!!!

Brian, I know you read my blog, so I have to tell you all those hamstring exercises you had me do on Friday got the best of me---I literally could not run one full lap tonight! :)

10 & 10

Last night was our first re-test. We're a month in now, and I'm proud to say I'm down 10 pounds and 10 inches! There's still lots of work to do, but it's very motivating to be seeing results. And my pants are getting so much looser :)

Congrats to my EM partner Cherish for her amazing results too----you're doing awesome girlie!

A Love/Hate Thing

The thing with FT is that you can't cheat----someone is watching over your form constantly. It can be so annoying, but when you walk out that door, you know that you worked out hard and properly (thanks Brain for not letting me get away with any "swinging")

Welcome new trainer Billy!

Assessment Week!

This week Cherish and I will have our first assessment since the inital one. We'll be able to see how body fat, ensurance, weight, flexibility, strength,e tc. have increased. I'm excited----hopefully it will be very positive and motivating!

Indra Salon

My initial consultation with April and Jose at Indra is two weeks from tomorrow. Apparently a "team of three" will be evaluating our options and deciding what skin care and hair care regimens I will follow, and what hair and makeup look we'll go with for the big reveal party. It's nice to have these fun little appointments---hair, massage, clothing, teeth---a nice diversion from all the fitness and nutrition sessions!

Help Wanted!

I've set some lofty goals for myself over the next few months. One of them is to run a 5K, which I haven't done since the Tampa Bay Komen Race for the Cure in 2001.
One of the best ways to train yourself to increase the length of time you can run is to interval train---alternating walks and runs/jogs. Sunday and tonight, I did just that, walking to one song on my Nano, jogging to the next for a total of 3.1 miles (5K). However, I've only programmed a few songs in the Nano, so I'd love some recommendations for music that will be motivating both in words and best. Kayne West's "Stronger" is one of my favorites to run to---perfect beat and the repeated "that that don't kill you, can only make you stronger" makes me keep going when I want to stop.
So, if any of you out there have some recommendations I would be so thankful---I enjoy all kinds of music---80's, country, rock, pop, new age, you name it! Thanks everyone!!!

9/11/01

It's so hard to believe that the WTC crashes were 7 years ago. I remember finding out about it at work at Premier Title at Isla Del Sol in St Pete, Florida. My friends Jeannine, Janet and I just sat at our desks stunned reading about it on the internet, taking turns going to Larry's Ice Cream next door to watch it in disbelief on TV. I called my friend Eric in NYC to make sure he was okay. I couldn't reach my (then boyfriend) Bill on the phone at his job in Boston---his cell phone service had gone out that morning. I was so thankful when he finally called me and told me he was fine. What a horrible day.
I pray every day that a tragedy like that will never again happen and that we can all live together in peace. My siblings-in-law Scott and Julie are both serving in the Air Force. Our entire family is so proud of them.
Thanks to everyone out there serving our country in the armed forces and helping to ensure our safety.

Natural White vs. Dazzling White

I checked in with the dentist's office today---they tell me that in just a couple short weeks, my teeth are as white as they should be---a "natural" white. They said that when you whiten teeth, you want them to be white, but not too flashy, so that people notice something is different, but aren't focused on your teeth.
I have the option to whiten them a little more, so I've decided to do so, just a couple more times. After all, it is an extreme makeover, right? The veneers will be done two weeks after I'm done with whitening so that they can match the veneers to the whiteness of my teeth (veneers do not whiten). They just said to call whenever I'm ready! I can't get over how nice everyone in that office is---they are wonderful.

Welcome Sam!

Sam is my new Tuesday trainer. He is helping out the Andover site, but works primarily out of Beverly. To all my friends from Beverly and Hamilton---you should pay him a visit and try it out. He really kicks your butt (but he's nice about it!!!)
We did all lower extremity work together---creative lunges, Bosu work, and my personal favorite, "mountain climbers". I feel those every time I walk up a step!!!

Whew!

What a workout tonight! They switched workouts up on us, so that 2 nights are entirely upper body and 2 nights lower body. My arms feel like rubber right now. I honestly don't know how I'm going to use them tomorrow!!! The really cool thing is that I am noticing changes---areas are thinner, starting to feel a little more defined, and the numbers on the scale are falling. I'm started to get the hang of the nutrition part---it's just so entirely different that my former way of eating. We're starting the cycle the macronutritents so it will be interesting to see what happens.
Here is is almost 9 p.m. I just got out of the shower after working out and I'm supposed to eat a high protein meal, complete my online food journal, and put in the teeth whitening trays. I'm so tired!!! Goodnight! :)

Visualizing Success

Between Will's school starting, everyday life, and juggling FT sessions, nutritional counseling, learning Vitabot, trying to keep the carb/protein/fat ratios right, whitening my teeth, and upcoming appointments with Dr. Nahata, Dresscode, and Indra, I am feeling like life is non-stop right now---and I love it!
I do know myself though, and I know that I need to take some time to get centered and clear my mind so that I can accomplish all the goals set for me in this extreme makeover while still being a good mom, wife, friend, volunteer, etc. When I got the call that I was one of the makeover finalists, I wanted to win so much; I started visualizing myself winning before I went to bed each night. I plan to start visualizing success in this makeover as well. Lisa recommends positive affirmations, which I've begun to write and recite daily...the premise is that if you write it and say it your mind will believe it to be true and then it will become true. Kind of like the Little Train that Could: "I think I can, I think I can" he said as he, a very small engine, tried to get up the big hill. I need to find my copy of Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill. My cousin's husband Will first gave me a copy and I've since given copies to several friends. It's a quick read, and one I recommend. The basis of the book has nothing to do with growing rich financially. It's more about whatever you dream you can acheive. Your acheivements will never be any bigger than what you dream, so dream BIG!

I hope you're having a great weekend :)

Good week!

We're nearing the end of another tough week, and it's ending positively. I worked out with trainer Dorothy for the first time. She had an excellent obliques exercise. It was so hard, but like they say, that which doesn't kill you makes you stronger :) Cherish and I will train with her again tomorrow morning. I really tried to ramp up cardio this week with some interval run/walks on the treadmill as well as some high incline walking. I'm happy to report that I am starting to see the changes, especially in my face and upper body.
Lisa set us both up on this online food analysis program. We enter every meal and snack into the program and it calculates every micro and macronutrient and grades you on everything. It's a very cool tool that I'm sure will help us out alot.
The teeth whitening is starting to take effect, and people are noticing a whiter, brighter smile! It makes it worthwhile, as the whitening gel isn't the most pleasant tasting stuff.
My son Will has begun to assume Mommy's going to the gym when Dad gets home. "You going to the gym to get healthy now, Mommy?" he asks me as Bill walks in the door. I'm thankful that I'm able to get away to do this, and happy that my children are able to witness their mom taking care of herself. I know I'm a better mom when I'm taking good care of myself.
Bill is coming on board too, sharing higher protein meals with me and trying to eat healthier. We're actually watching a little TV and eating carrot sticks together, when normally we'd snack on something like crackers or ice cream. I appreciate his support through this process.

Bye Bye Carbs...

After a little too much fun in the sun with the boys and friends on Friday, followed by a fabulous 5th anniversary dinner in town with my husband, I walked into FT today with my head hung low. I knew fully well that they would review my food journal (which I'd already dissected)---those glasses of wine turned me into a weekend carbo-junkie.
I'll have to work extra hard this week to make up for it! :)

Brutal Brian

Are you kidding?

This statement probably came out of my mouth 6 times this morning as Brian put us through a grueling cardio/core interval workout. I was disgusting---literally dripping sweat---by the time it was over. Cherish and I were actually crawling on the floor to get from one exercise to the next by the time it was over. I'm so proud that I made it through :)

Brian is really good at what he does and makes sure that you're working your hardest. Thanks Brian!

Happy Labor Day Weekend Everyone!

Are my teeth white yet???

I got the opportunity to meet Cherish's darling trio today at the playground. Geez does her baby look alot like her! My boys enjoyed meeting them and Will asked me on the drive home if they could all come for a sleepover!
I did my first teeth whitening session today, which went well overall, aside from a touch of sensitivity on one tooth (which is expected at first). I asked my husband immediately after "do they look whiter yet?" and he flatly said no (it is supposed to take 3-4 times, but I can already tell that I'm just going to have to ask after every single session). The weight training and hour of cardio were intense tonight, but I'm thrilled to report that it's working---so far, I've lost 5 pounds of flubber. HOORAY!
I also saw one of the other finalists today at FT. It is really generous of FT, Dr. Nahata, and Indra to offer services to all the finalists. I hope they all do well and wish them the best. They were all a bunch of great gals.
Oh, and Anna Banana, trainer extrordinaire, will be celebrating her birthday this weekend, so let's all wish her Champagne Wishes and Kenny Chesney Dreams :)

Teeth Whitening Begins!

The amazing Dr. Nahata and staff have finished making my teeth whitening mold and trays and I start tonight---goodbye red wine and soda!

Dresscode!

Lisa told us that Amy from Dresscode has some ideas for our "reveal party" outfits. I can't wait to visit Dresscode and check everything out and meet Amy! Cherish and I are having so much fun and are so grateful to all the great people who make this EM happen.

Plankies and Pikies

OK, I think I mentionned previously that Anna is very sweet. Well, she has this power of persuation about her that I think comes from her sweet demeanor. She is a drill sargeant in disguise. Although we're in there, gasping for air, hoping Anna will have mercy on us and let us "take five" during interval training, she says, as nice as could be that it's time to move right on to the next thing. "Get movin' Cheryl" she chirps in from across the room as I am on the treadmill moments later. The interval training includes core strength work like planks and modified pikes, which she endearly termed "pikies and plankies" the other night. With a laid back collection of Kenny Chesney tunes surrounding us, Anna's sweet smile, and terminology like plankies, how could you go wrong???

Back to the Grind!

After a two day break, we're back in the gym and the weights just keep going up! Today's session was fabulous. Tomorrow's workout is the core stabilizaton/abs/interval workout, which I dread. But Cherish is going to workout at the same time, so we'll have fun watching each other try to not fall! Lisa will do a nutritional consult with each of us tomorrow too, and I think I'm pretty on track in that regard---but let's wait and see what Lisa thinks ;)

Week One: Done

This was a GREAT first week! I LOVE going to FT. It's challenging and it's so motivating to have the trainer with you----you KNOW your form is right, plus you don't have to count reps, and they push you to go further than you would alone. It's pretty much non-stop work the whole time. I think the best part is the whole mind-body thing---you're able to forget about the issues or stresses that might be happening in your life, since you're just so focused on not falling off a ball or treadmill! :)
My husband is so supportive of this process and is also planning to follow some of the nutritional program with me. I've been experimenting with adding protein powder to a whole bunch of different foods---it is a vanilla flavor and tastes fantastic in yogurt. I love the Perdue Perfect Portions chicken too---it cooks in 15 minutes in the toaster oven and is a good 4-4.5 ounce size. Because the pieces are individually wrapped, there's not alot of prep or cleanup involved.
Dad and Bill ordered pizza last night from the new Wicked Cheesy Pizza that people have been raving about. It smelled good in the car on the way home, so instead of sitting around watching them eat, I took a jog around the neighborhood. Haven't done that in a very long time, and it felt great! The pizza didn't seem as appetizing by the time I got home, as I was feeling that the energy I just burned wasn't worth blowing on a slice or two. I think I had a rice cake with almond butter instead-yay!
Steering clear of the birthday cake tomorrow---as Lisa says, we have to be "clean eating" right now, and birthday cake is anything but clean.
Hope everyone has a good weekend...thanks for visiting :)

Day Two: Nutrition and Interval Training

Spent two hours at FT today. I have to keep a journal of everything I eat and had to hand in my first week's entries yesterday. Tonight, Lisa broke everything down for me-carbs, protein, fat, etc-and basically I'm doing most everything wrong! There is so much conflicting and confusing information out there about what to eat-low fat, low carb, low calorie-Lisa created a customized plan for me that I think is do-able. It will change as the workouts change, but it's actually alot more food than I've been eating this week, and it requires me to be eating 6 meals instead of 3. I went to the grocery store to stock up tonight-we'll see how it goes.
Anna is very sweet and worked with both Cherish and I tonight. We were cross-training between abs and core stabilization and cardio; it was pretty nuts. I was happy to have Cherish there, as it challenged me to hold my planks longer and do more pikes on the ball.
Tomorrow is a day off from training. I will still do 30-60 of cardio on my own. My father is visiting from Florida the rest of the week for my oldest's 4th birthday. He'll probably try to get me to eat some of our regular "visiting junk" like take-out pizza and ice cream, plus there's the whole birthday cake problem. I think the nutritional counseling today and then shopping for the right foods tonight will help me with that. I hope.

Day One

I'm so happy it's Day One! Today was my first training session. I worked with Brian. He was very no-nonsense and had a "let's get right to work" attitude. It felt great to have him there so I knew that my form was just right. I expect to be sore all over tomorrow. Next session: tomorrow with Anna!