With Success Also Comes New Struggles.

I have a habit of posting positive, empowering, encouraging, inspiring posts on Facebook, Instagram, and this blog. (wow that wasn't humble at all...stay tuned you'll get where I'm going with this). Everyone tells me how positive and uplifting I am. I think I don't necessarily try but to keep myself positive, I need to keep a straight mindset when it comes to what can potentially outweigh the bad.

This past month has been tough with losing a great friend, still processing the loss of other family members and just simply juggling work, exercise, clean eating, and life. 

Updated Progress Picture. :)

Confession: I think I might have been under eating the past 3 weeks. A year ago stress made me eat everything in sight especially cheesy pasta and bread. I'm not sure why things have changed so much. I found myself so tired at night I would eat a banana and some peanut butter for dinner. I wouldn't feel like I was starving or famished, but I knew I wasn't eating enough. I had this "I don't care" attitude and for once I just allowed myself to be depressed. I still am. My heart still hurts and it's a constant struggle to stay on track with eating every few hours. 

When I first started my journey I was eating small meals every 2-2.5 hours. After about 4 months of that and my metabolism being "woken up" I decided that a small breakfast afternoon snack, medium lunch, and large dinner was better. I will often switch it up from time to time with lots of little meals.

So, 5-6 months ago I had a slight "binging" problem. I'm sure others will look at what I consider binging and think I'm crazy for classifying it as that but the truth is the emotional triggers is what makes me classify it as that. On a positive note, those episodes have lessened tremendously. I'm extremely proud of myself. I know that of course I will probably do it a time or two more along this journey but the guilt that came with it will not be there. I've also found a way to work through it mentally. When I have the thought of doing it; I drink 20+ ounces of water in one sitting. I don't let the water bottle out of my hands the entire time until it's gone. If the water is gone and I still have the urge I will get 1 thing that's "bad" might be bread or a piece of pizza...something but nothing more than 1 thing. Those two methods seem to help a lot.

My workouts this month (from the 11th on) have been great!I started focusing more on my arms and backs. The weights have been my friend along with machines. However, I know to keep slimming down in the waist area I need to add more cardio as well. I need a nice balance of cardio and weights. 

So, going back to my under eating issue: I will be doing a full week worth of meal prep for the first time this Sunday. I will take pictures, write recipes, and post the process on my blog. I will keep notes on how the week goes and report back. Then, the next time I do it hopefully I can do it better. I'm excited to see how it goes. 

I wanted to share this struggle of "under eating" because this journey throws a lot of challenges at you. By being able to post this one...I'm hoping to accept it as a struggle and issue, better myself and not rely on it as a problem anymore. I'm taking the steps to improve and get back on track. Please understand that NO ONE is PERFECT on this journey. We all falter in different areas at different points. That being said, we learn so much during each stage so keep yourself accountable and accept the emotions, thoughts, and pain that come with each day because those are what teach us the lessons. 

I hope you all are well. Post questions or email me (look in the contact tab) so we can discuss any questions, issues, or problems you might be having. 

Hugs to you.

Giving Up Isn't an Option

Play this song while you read! :) 

 I survived my first group workout class at the gym. I was petrified. I didn't know what to expect. I was worried I would feel less than others in the class or not know what to do. I can honestly say I probably wouldn't have done it without my workout buddy, Raycee with me. The class was called "TNT" Trim & Tone. The description included weights, body bars, resistant bands. We were prepared to really focus on toning up. Because it was the first class of the month...we were "lucky enough" to get a cardio session with those weights!

Within the first 15 minutes I was sweating! I found myself excelling in certain moves and circuits and then struggling with others. I took notice of those ones I felt I was struggling to get through. I know I gave it my all and I didn't stop. 45 minutes straight (with of course the short water breaks). It was challenging, but worth every second of. 

At the end of the workout, we did a yoga cool down for a few minutes. As I was laying down and stretching with the music I had the thought "Look at you...in a group class. You just finished 45 minutes of an intense circuit". I have done circuits before, but at my own pace in my own house. I never stood in front of people and let all reservations down and allowed myself to leave my heart on the floor. That's exactly what I did. I let out my Monday frustrations on the floor. I thought about where I was 4 months ago, attempting to hike up a hill behind my house. I couldn't do 30 jumping jacks straight without feeling like I was going to collapse. Today I did 30 jumping jacks in 5 different sets.  I call that progress!

I want to get across one point tonight: IT GETS EASIER! Obviously, my face is the face of pain and sweat, but today was easier than 4 months ago. In another 4 months, it will be easier. Just because it does get easier doesn't mean I will allow myself to give up or become "too comfortable". I will continue to find things to push me.

So many people ask where I get my motivation and drive. I still have a hard time answering that question. 4 months ago I said out loud that I didn't have self control or discipline. Look at me now. I decided to change. . . not for a man, my mother, family, work, or friends. I changed because I knew it was what my soul and life needed in order reach other dreams and goals. This is one small step in the right direction. By getting healthy I'm gaining confidence, power, and reassurance about the woman I am and can be in the future. 

I encourage each of you to make a list. I started with 3 "things" I wanted to achieve. I didn't put a timeline on them, but I wanted to focus on events or things I wanted to accomplish but knew that the only way I could do it was if I chose a healthier lifestyle. 

1. Get my PCOS symptoms under control. 

2. Run...not walk for cancer research. 

3. Be a mom. . . someday. 

Make your list. Then I challenge you to make three small changes in your every day life that can aid in you accomplishing those goals. 

1. Cut out processed foods.

2. Workout 3-5 times a week. 

3. Drink more than 8 glasses of water a day.

 In a matter of months, you will see results and feel so much better. Not only will you take notice of the small changes you are doing, you will also be inspired to make other small changes. No matter how small, they all add up. 

Never give up. Stay strong & keep fighting! xoxo

A Little of Everything!

 This weekend marked 12 weeks, exactly 3 months since I decided to change my life! I'm officially 34 lbs down! :) I never thought I could do this, but I'm surprising myself! Starting today, I will not look at the scale for an entire month! I plan on focusing on my core, abs, legs, arms and really trying to jump start the toning up process and in the meantime, hopefully losing a few pounds this month! I really need to focus on my tummy region this month.

Food prepping for a couple of days. Chicken breasts lightly coated with extra virgin olive oil, fresh squeezed lemon juice (half) with 2 small red potatoes, fresh garden onions, fresh basel, fresh parsley.

A circuit! :)

Biggest Loser Workout kicked by butt! Such a great workout! :) Worked new muscles and literally had to take a day off after!

Breakfast for dinner! 3 eggs scrambled, 2 morning star veggie patties cut up, spinach, one roma tomato.

7 week difference! I hated showing my arms, but I'm proud at how far they are coming along! :D

Felt good enough to lay out in a bikini to get some sun. Of course no one was around, but still! The point is, I sat outside in a bikini!

My weight!!! I reach 208, exactly 34 lbs down in 3 months! I was so happy!! :) I spent a majority of last week freaking out about not losing weight. Obviously, my three periods made me hold on to some water weight but by weigh in day, it was gone!

I was told that when family follow your lead it's the most rewarding thing on the planet. Well, having my mom brag about almost being out of the 200s made my day! She is planning on rewarding herself with a new outfit when she hits 175. I'm so lucky that she sees how important it is to get healthy!

It's a new month! Here are July's goal! Yes, you saw that, NO SCALE JULY!

Here's a challenge I'm doing this month. I haven't ever participated in one before, but I thought this looked doable!

Wore a shirt I haven't been able to fit comfortably in a couple of summers! Feels great!

Today's workout. I took 3 days off from working out. Why? Because I was sore and a bit lazy, but I hit it hard tonight and this week will be a great week!

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Great workout tonight! :) Missed the feeling! :D

Helpful information!

Time to Catch Up!

I haven't blogged in like 8 days. I've been pretty busy with my workouts, work, finally getting settled in my house, and just spending time with my sister and nieces. I have done pretty well & am excited to share some pictures and what's been going on. I can't remember everything the past week or so, but I'll definately hit on some highlights and points. I think that after this post, I'm going to lean toward more on the meals, workouts, and self discovery I've come to learn and love. I do a lot of the same thing every single day, so instead of a play by play of my day, I'm going to share with you exactly what I use, cook, do for workouts, and what I come across when it comes to my journey! 

So last weekend, I beat my mile of 12:11 to 11:57...well I beat it AGAIN the next day!!! :) I was so excited. I cried, yet again when I beat the time :) I've come a long way!

Right: April 17 just over a week after starting my new life style. Left: Last weekend! :) 

 Last week, I had a LOT of non scale victories when it came to people noticing changes, old clothes fitting, and feeling overall AMAZING with my progress. 

My periods have been a bit messed up this month, I've had 3 total this month alone. I'm seeing my doctor and checking in with her a lot via phone to make sure I'm okay. It's good because I'm having pain on both sides (both ovaries), so I'm hopeful that things will level out soon. I know my body is getting used to being lighter, being more active, and eating better so weird changes like this is bound to happen! 

Went on the hike behind my house that I orginally started with, with Laura, and now what used to take me almost 20 minutes and a ton of breaks, I was done at the top in 12 minutes with only 2 breaks. 

I started this journey 11 weeks ago, two weeks after I started I took the pictures on the left hand side. On the right was this Friday. :) I see progress!!! YAY! 

 I have my measurements and before pictures (1 month in) at Laura's house and hopefully sometime this week or upcoming weekend I can compare. 

I've been feeling like my body is used to my workouts and circuits the past week because I haven't been sore. I'll push myself and go a bit longer for a workout or add another circuit, but when it comes to using different parts of my body I feel like I should do some more research and find more workouts. 

My sister, Aislinn told me about the "P.I.N.K Method" I had never heard of it, but after some light research I saw that it was a program made my women who sorta of retrain your body and metabolism with a meal plan and workouts. I don't believe in following a certain meal plan set, because I believe our bodies tell us what it wants and needs! As long as I'm making clean options and eating clean, I feel confident in my eating! :) However, I did do the level 3 cardio kickboxing session! PHEW! It really did kick by butt. I'm not really coordinated with the whole kickboxing thing, but I liked it and got better. It was 45 minutes long! 

After my kickboxing workout!

 

I am really enjoying cooking lately. Sometimes I go through phases where I get tired and don't want to cook, but it's so fun and nice knowing what's going in your meals! 

My "niece" Cheyenne posted this photo on instagram and it literally made my night when I saw it. A friend of mine told me that the most rewarding thing is when your family follows by your example. I know I post a lot on Instagram and Facebook about this journey, but I know that some day, I can and will inspire someone else. I know that if it wasn't for my friends who live healthy life styles on Facebook and Instagram that I would feel defeated some days. They help with that extra motivation I need. :) 

I went shopping today and rewarded myself with some new tops and a pair of sun glasses! :) So excited!

After I went shopping, I decided to clean out my closet and organize everything in my new dresser. I found a pair of size 15 skinny jeans and they fit! :) Currently I'm in a size 14/15 depending on the style of the jeans. I've come a long way from size 18!

Today's workout kicked my butt! :)

My arms were HUGE 3 months ago. I had no muscle! Now, I'm starting to see some definition and they are starting to tone up nicely. :)

Not drinking alcohol as much means that I get to drink lemon water in my nice wine glasses!

Tonight's Dinner! :)

Now, this sums up the past few days, so starting tomorrow I'll be writing down some recipes and posting them, sharing my entire workout routines, and also giving helpful tips and reminders to help when there comes times when we all feel a bit down! 

Have a good night all! :) Remember, you can find me on Instagram at @chelsea_is_changingxoxo 


 

Non Scale Victories...ALLLLL week long! :)

Thursday, I started my day off by putting on a pair of jeans and had to do a double take to realize what I was seeing in the mirror! 

 Everyone who knows me, knows that I've never had a butt. EVER. So, you'll understand my surprise when I looked in the mirror and was able to see a butt! I wish I had taken a pictures months ago to compare, but I'm so excited by this small progress already!  :) Confidence, it's nice to meet you! :)

So, for my workout I waited until around 9 pm because it had been raining ALL night. I don't have room in my house to workout, but I have a nice yard that I can workout in :) I did a couple circuit workout and had a great evening working out in the fresh air! 

Yesterday, after work, I went to a friends house for her birthday BBQ. I ate pretty well, chose not to have alcohol and drank my water. However, I did have a small piece of cake and didn't feel horrible at all! I told myself that if I ate the cake I would POWER through my workout and make sure I gave it my all. So, I did the following as my working :) 

15 min on a stationary bike
Then I did this:

I ended with Jillian Michael's Standing Ab Workout

Each exercise 3xs

It was a great 60 minute workout! :) 

I usually take Saturday's off, but because I didn't workout last Sunday or Monday, I decided I wanted to run. :) I guess I should explain what crazy idea I had this week. 

It seems like with new found confidence and changing body, I'm finding myself wanting to do more. I want to accomplish more and reach more goals. I don't know if I'm impatient or eager...but I randomly saw that there is a 5k on July 13 in Missoula and I had a wild idea...

Maybe I could run in it? Not focusing on time, but just finishing. It starts at 8 am and awards are at 9:30 am. I don't know...I have a feeling that this crazy idea will have positive and negative responses from people I know. I feel that if I work hard up until the run, I could do it. I probably wouldn't do it in a fantastic time like most, but hey for still being over 200 lbs, running in a 5k is an accomplishment in its self, right?

I'm not sure. I'm going to run one more time and make up my mind by Wed. :) 

So, to focus on today's workout, I wanted to see if I could 1. beat my mile time 2. go further than a mile. 

My last miles have been 12:36 and then my next best one was 12:11 and this was tonights!

That's right, I got it under 12 minutes!!! I couldn't believe it! Cried a little bit :) 

So, I decided to push myself and keep going. During the last mile, I walked a couple times because I felt a bit tired in the legs and shins. When I hit the couple of hills going up, I would run and push through. It felt great! When I finished, I felt sooooo awesome! :) Here are some pictures! Here is the entire workout for the night. :) I feel pretty good about it. Especially walking a few times and this is the first time I've gone further than a one mile run. :) 

Now, I'm lounging on my couch and enjoying some t.v. Tomorrow, I plan on cleaning house and re-arranging my house. I think tomorrow I'll do a couple new workout videos from Fit Sugar. If I do some, I'll post about them then. :) 

XOXO.

Another Mile. Another Workout. Another Great Day. Another Win.

So, I woke up this morning and made a yummy breakfast!

I made 2 eggs with spinach, lean turkey, and a sprinkle of cheese on top with a side of half a grapefruit! 

I then decided to check in with my friend, Tamara.(She has a blog too, so click here to follow it). She has lost I believe over 50 lbs and has recently made goals about beating her previous times for running a mile. I wanted to see what she did and didn't do when it came to running (since everyone knows I don't run). She gave me the following advice: listen to your body. So, after I ate and did some morning stretching because yesterday's workout and run did leave my body going "what the heck?" I decided to give the mile a try again. I wanted to beat my time but I was going to do it without looking at my Sports Tracker app because I simply wanted to see if I could do it a second day in a row. 

I started off really strong. I felt my speed was up and that I was breathing even better than the day before. I did the same route, so I knew when I needed to look at my app and this is what I saw:

In case you didn't notice, I beat my time by 26 seconds and increased my average speed by .2. My maximum speed was 6.6. Yesterday it was 6.0. When I saw the time and stopped the timer, I literally started crying. I started walking home with Jeremy Camp (christian music) in my ear buds while I just cried. I kept saying, "Thank You Lord. Thank You for my strength"For the first time in probably ever...I was proud of myself. I was ready to shout it to the moon and back! I did it! 

So after doing some laundry and visiting with Aislinn (always so nice to go hang out and see my crazy nieces) I went home and made lunch. Here is what I had:

 

Lean turkey, cheese, tomato, lettuce, a smidge of ranch, bean chips and a half of a grapefruit. 

After having lunch I decided to treat myself to a movie. The Hangover III. It was HILARIOUS! Go watch it! I was also proud of myself because I used to LOVE a huge dr. pepper and a bucket of popcorn, but today I took my own healthy snakes. Cheese stick and a nature valley peanut butter granola. yummy. 

Got pretty to go to a movie! 

After the movie, I went to Laura's to do a workout with her and Jason. They had already done a workout but were awesome enough to let me do mine at their house plus they did another circuit with me! :) I accomplished my planks again! A couple weeks ago I gave Laura the worst attitude because I felt like I wasn't strong enough but last night and tonight I did them!

After a long day of successes and spending time with awesome people, I'm tired! I have work tomorrow and then on Friday I will be heading to WA to spend time with my family. I won't have cell or internet access so expect a full on report when I get back! It will be challenge to eat clean around family and graduation parties but I have a gym back home and I'm excited to see what I can accomplish on my own at home for 5 days!!! 

Here is a pic I'm going to share with everyone. On the LEFT: 3 weeks ago. RIGHT: today! I see a difference! Loving results. Progress pics play a huge role in my motivation. The numbers of course do too and the way I feel but when I feel down, I look back at comparison pictures and it all proves to me WHY I'm doing it!