healthy eating

Weight Loss Struggles and Successes

I blogged a few weeks ago about how where I eat is directly related to the amount I eat and my ability to judge fullness. I have used the table more, but even with good intentions, I’ve slipped back into old habits and still eat in front of the television a lot.successes

Struggles

The truth is, I like eating in front of the television. It’s a reward after a long day of work, and when I force myself to sit at the table, I feel deprived. I don't have the same reaction eating on the patio or at a restaurant . I also continue to struggle with late evening snacks. Sometimes I’m hungry, sometimes I just want the snack. Last night… Read More

Snack Time—Choose Wisely

It’s snack time and it’s important to choose wisely. I want to grab something fast and easy. Generally, I eat in front of the computer while working, and whatever I’m eating disappears in an instant. I’m not even certain what I’ve eaten! In my ongoing quest for healthy eating, I have stopped eating snacks in front of the computer to avoid mindless eating. I also try to look for lean protein snacks. snack Crabmeat and grapes

Lean Protein Snacks

Rebecca Clark, author of the Checklist Diet and says, “Having a good protein snack will help stabilize your moods, your blood sugar and your energy levels.” I’ve started choosing lean protein snacks when I’m working because it takes… Read More

Exercise Challenge

Exercise Challenge

challenge Mt. Fernie, Canada In one of my first blogs, I wrote about obesity and I threw out an exercise challenge. I said that since I was motivated to exercise and eat right, I would be support and encouragement for those of you who can’t. I promised I’d do double time—extra sit ups, run or swim an extra lap, ride another mile—all in honor of you. I’d be your helping hand, your lift up until you could take the torch and do it yourself. challenge Mountain biking Spense Mountain, Oregon So I took up the challenge, and since July 14, 2015 when I posted that… Read More

Mindful Eating and Meal Presentation

Meal Presentation

Does meal presentation make a difference? I’ve always thought it doesn’t, but I’ve had a change of heart. I’m learning that how my food looks, tastes, smells and even where I sit can make a huge difference in weight control.eating For years, our table has been a clutter collector. Everything gets tossed there. About the only thing that doesn’t happen at the table is eating.

Mindful Eating

When I had young children at home, we ate at the table because anyone who’s had toddlers knows they are incredibly messy eaters. But as our children got older, it seemed we were always on the go and mealtimes became grab and run. And after the kids went off to college, we evolved… Read More

Is That All I Get?

Portion size

portion I wanted this much portion I chose this much Every time I look at my plate I think, is that all I get? Logically, I know the portion size is right for me, but I want more. My struggle is, how do I match up with what I want versus what my body really needs? This has been a constant struggle for me, and I’ve tried all the tricks. Use a smaller plate, eat slower, savor my food. They do work, but there’s still that little voice taunting me—more, more, more. Why do I see a normal portion and feel it’s not nearly enough? I… Read More

Fall Recipes

recipe Leaves turning colors It’s the end of summer, so I’m starting to think about heartier meals and fall and winter recipes. When it’s 115 degrees outside I don’t want to cook,  and just the idea of adding more heat by turning on the oven isn’t appealing. But with fall and winter on the way, I've been browsing for new recipes, and I came across some winners I want to share. The first is a new twist on mac and cheese from Cooking Light magazine called One Pan Broccoli Mac and Cheese. recipes One pan broccoli mac and cheese I have to say I was a little… Read More

Blended Vacation Part 3

blended vacation sunset in Bend Oregon Blended vacation Mountain biking Mrazek Trail Bend Oregon blended vacation Mountain biking Mrazek trail Bend Oregon blended vacation Sunset Bend Oregon Blended vacation Mark trail Bend Oregon Blended vacation Phil trail Bend Oregon Blended Vacation Phil Trail Bend… Read More

Blended Vacations

Blended Vacations

exercise Mountain biking Spense Mt. in Klamath Falls, Oregon In recent years, my husband and I are taking blended vacations. We do some sightseeing, eating out and relaxing. We also look for ways to explore the areas where we vacation by biking, hiking, kayaking or whatever exercise strikes our fancy. In the past, I’ve found eating out while on vacation a challenge. I want to splurge all the time, especially if we’ve been exercising. But if I’m listening to my body, that’s not always what it wants.exercise The two important takeaways from The Checklist Diet by Rebecca Clark that I keep… Read More

Make Your Workout a Family Affair

Workouts should be a family affair. Sometimes you might have to get creative, but the payoff is worth it.

Making workouts fun

My kickboxing aerobics instructors, Dana and Gloria Warren are always changing up our workouts and one night there were several kids that came with their parents.workout Dana started us off with a game of tag. Think you’re in shape? Try keeping up with a bunch of kids in a confined space who run for fun all day long. The Klutzy Athlete was breathing heavy in no time. Later in class, we piggy-backed the kids up and down the gym. They may not heavy, but trust me, you’ll get a good workout after a few trips with an extra 30-50 pounds on your back.… Read More

Weight Loss is not for Sissies

weight loss Image courtesy of KEK064 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net Weight loss is not for sissies is a truth no one wants to admit. My experience has been there is no easy way to lose weight and keep it off, but gaining it is a piece of pie, literally. That’s not to say it can’t be done. I’m here to tell you I have done it and kept it off. I’ve always struggled with 10 to 15 pounds, but two years ago that figure jumped to 20 pounds. My fear is 10 pounds will lead to 20 pounds, then 20 pounds will lead to 40. I had a favorite weight loss program that had always worked for me until 2013 when they… Read More