• I've got my "target outfit" - a little black dress I bought about three years ago and I have NEVER worn. It was one of those purchases where I relied on the recommendation of the sales clerk. You all know her - according to her, EVERYTHING you try on looks GREAT!
• After my purchase, I tried the dress on again at home. I was appalled! It was so tight it buckled in the back. Of course, this is the area you can't see by yourself.
• The material was stretchy, so it felt ok - it just looked like S - - - ! Well lucky me, the store didn't do cash returns (only credit) and they did not have a larger size. So the dress has hung in my closet (with the receipt) as a constant reminder to ALWAYS take my husband with me. (He is my favorite shopping girl friend - always honest, and never lets me leave the store with something I regret. Thanks for always making me feel good about my self - no matter what. XOXO)
• Well, I tried the dress on the other day. I could have cried. It fit! Perfectly!!. (Now, finding a pair of shoes to match has been a bit of a problem. No worries - give me a challenge, and I'm on it.)
• So this is the dress I will be wearing when I attend the Nu Image 10th Anniversary on June 22nd. It's a perfect match. They are celebrating. I am celebrating. Party on! (Well, in my head anyway. I won't be partying until after the photo shoot on June 28th. Then, out of my way!!!)
• And the "target" outfit for the billboard...Sorry, no sharing of those details. You will just have to wait for the big reveal.
• Thank you to everyone - who has emailed or called, who has stopped me on the street, or in the gym.
• Thank you Nu Image and thank you Gold's Gym - especially Tony, Neil and Kyle who did an im"pec"cable job as trainers. And thank you to all the spin class teachers - my butt will look better in shorts this summer, thanks to those grueling (I mean challenging) classes. And yes Shelley, it does hurt less when you smile.
• And thank you to my family and friends - I am soooo blessed. Yesterday, I even got flowers from a friend congratulating me on completing the twenty weeks.
• Oh, and before I forget: No - I am not taking fat burners. I am training "au natural".
• But, all good things come to an end. That is just life. It has been one heck of a ride.
• And as the 'Cake Boss' says: Live life and eat good cake!
• Bye Bye ....Cindy

To infinity and beyond.......

• Soon the curtains will close. The music will stop playing. And everyone will go home. Soon the 6-Pack challenge will come to an end. What will life look like after that?
• This is a question I have asked myself. This is a question the masses have been asking as well.
• For me, commitment is definitely motivating. Will my commitment remain - once all the external commitment is gone? I think so. I hope so. I know so.
• I have had dreams of dry chicken breast flying into the sunset. There will be no more dry chicken breast. I love food. That will never change. But it needs to taste good. And dry chicken breast does not!
• Sometimes we have to make sacrifices. Yes, I know that. But there has to be a way to have my cake and eat it too. (see there is that "cake" thing again!) If that means cardio twice in one day. Then, I will do that. But I will not eat dry chicken breast. That is not a sacrifice. That is punishment.
• I have learned to be creative with food. I have become more aware of what is going in. I have already begun to alter my diet to something a bit more realistic. Mostly due to exhaustion. Following a lower carb diet is meant for a short time only. It can really play havoc with your system, especially your energy level and focusing ability. And, it is not healthy. Too me, it important to look good - feel good - and have a quality life. I do not believe in jeopardizing my health to attain that.
• Low-to-no carbs was just not doing it for me. I understand the importance of carbs. And, I understand the difference between a good carb and not-so-good carb. My diet has been modified forever. No sadness there.
• I will continue with the gym. But at a more realistic pace. I will continue with personal training, but not quite so often.
• My knee has been a constant reminder of moderation: I spent last Friday back at physio. My knee is swollen. A clear indication that maybe I should slow it down - just a bit.
• But I will continue - and with a new workout partner. My husband is going to join me. And this I am looking forward to. Some 'us' time - no children - just us.
• Things will never be the same at our house - but change is always good. Bring it on!
• Stay tuned ...Cindy

Mirror Mirror on the wall...

• Have you been to Gold's Gym lately? If you have not noticed, a fundraiser is being held for cystic fibrosis. This one is near and dear to me: I have a sister-in-law who is living with the disease and who has been an inspiration to me for years. She is why I try and live each day to the fullest. Why I am thankful for what I have.
• The fundraiser allows you to Train your Trainer. (Did they ask the trainers about this before they posted the poster???) OMG. After what I have been through??? This could get ugly.
• For all you exercise enthusiasts who would like some payback: here is your chance! And it's for a great cause. (I wonder if we could get together as a group... )
• This past week, I had the opportunity to do a boxing workout. The boxing workout is a timed series of exercises not designed for the faint of heart. I've concluded it's just 'cruel, and unusual punishment!'. Let's all put this one on our "to do list".
• Just when I thought I had past the point of achy muscles and I had mastered interval training - then came the boxing workout. I know I joked about vomit before... I was assured I would not be the first person to vomit after this exercise. Yuck.
• The circuit included (but was not limited to) push-ups (as many as I could do, 2 sets), 50 bench presses, skipping (150 I think), 100 medicine ball tosses (while balancing on my butt), 35 lunge presses (using 2-20lb dumbbells), 50 of some crazy drop-to- the- floor- get- up thingies, knee kicks, lat pulls and a whole bunch more. I completed the circuit in 21 minutes. "Pretty good for the first time" I was told (with a surprised tone, if you can believe it). First time??? How about only time. Not likely I'll agree to that one again. Really. I am not agreeing. Double yuck.
• But, I continue to rake in the benefits of my efforts. Now, many of my clothes are too big. (Shopping!! Just don't tell my husband) And, I have made new friends (like shoes, you can never have too many) And the funniest: Is that you??? Yes, there is doubt that the billboard picture is me. Yippie! This is a good thing.
• Last week I asked my daughter her opinion on how she thought I was doing. This week I asked my son: "So, how do you think your Mom is doing?" He looked at me straight in the eyes and replied "Mom...what mom?!" (Point taken. I spend a LOT of time at the gym.) He smiles, and later we compared biceps. I have a ways to go to catch up to him. I can almost do a chin up. I'm not telling how many he can do. He is helping me practice. This is a good thing.
• Thought for the day: You can never have too much of a good thing. (I know Martha Stewart will agree.) Celebration time. Two weeks to go!! Maybe Martha will bake me a cake :). If not, maybe my husband will - he is getting darned handy in that kitchen! And this is a great thing! XOXO to him.
• Stay tuned ...Cindy

Break away from the gym...

• I took a holiday away from the gym. All weekend. And it felt great.
• And I took a break from my diet. It just had to be.
• Sometimes when we focus on something, we lose focus. We stop smelling the roses. We begin to forget why we began the journey. (And, besides that - my left knee started to swell. Overuse, I've been told...)
• So, I took a break. I spent the weekend watching my son focus. And cheering his team on. Regina hosted the Water Polo 16U Boys National Club Championships this past weekend. My son plays goal.
• Becoming a parent has given me the opportunity to re-live my childhood. To see the world through the eyes of a child. To see the glass half full (as children do) rather that half empty. To spend more time sharing, and caring about others.
• Since becoming a parent I have often found myself being motivated by my children. To find a new enthusiasm and determination. We can learn something from everyone - especially our children.
• My daughter, for example, always has her "Dear Santa" letter written by the end of October. No procrastination in her schedule. She diligently flips the pages of the Christmas catalogue, circling the items of interest and going into great detail explaining to me why she would like that pair of slippers, or that toy.
• She then proceeds to make a list (in perfect handwriting) the name of the item, including the page number it can be found in the catalogue (in case Santa can't find it by himself) In fact, I'm sure she is into her second draft for December 2010. This is important to her - and her focus shows it.
• My son spends a lot of time at the pool. No complaints. The next time I joke about running stairs caring dumbbells, or sits-ups with a medicine ball, I am going to be grateful that my trainer has not thrown me into a pool, handed me two bricks, and asked me to tread water until eternity. His determination and focus have landed him a position at the Nation Water Polo Team centralization program in Montreal and California for the summer. This is important to him - and his focus shows it.
• We, as parents, hope that we will be able to provide our children with the tools to get through life.
• We, as parents, also get tools from our children to continue through life.
• Yesterday, I asked my daughter what she thought about the last seventeen weeks. She said, "Mom, I am so proud of you. You are doing so good. And you look so different." And she gives me a big hug. (That is a paraphrase, because my daughter spoke to the question for about fifteen minutes. Yes, she learned that skill from her mother.)
• And a day has not gone by that my son has not asked "how was the gym?"
• And so, back to the gym I go. And I will re-focus - because, it is important to me.
• Stay tuned ...Cindy

• Routine is good if all the variables remain the same. But what if the variables change? Well I tested that theory on the weekend. I was away for two days. How was I going to not "fall of the wagon"?
• My intentions were good: I packed running shoes to jog and a cooler filled with food. But we all know what is said about good intentions...
• I did look like a bit of a pack mule - everyone else had one bag and there I was with three. I had to assure them that "No, I only brought one pair of shoes" (runners do not count) and "yes it's food - I have a few diet restrictions at the moment".
• I was up at 6 every morning and went for a jog. The first morning was windy - not breezy, windy! No surprise since we live in southern Saskatchewan. As I am running head into the wind I did check the status of my sanity. What the h__ was I doing? I concluded that I had no time to debate my options - If I stopped, I was sure to land somewhere in Alberta (strong East wind). I did wonder if I didn't show up for breakfast, would someone come out looking for me.
• I was able to do some exercises (step ups on the bench, lunges, etc). Did you know there are muscles that only seem to work when you jog? Yup, I found them. And my room was down two flights of stairs. Very painful.
• I ate my quinoa before the group met for breakfast. This reduced the resistance to stuff myself with all the very delicious (non meal plan) breakfast choices. Having packed my protein shakes as well, I was able to (for the most part) ensure all my meals were being consumed.
• It was not easy - but it was not that difficult either. While I was running on someone else's schedule, trying to keep up with mine was not easy. Ensuring I was eating every three hours was a challenge - and not always met. But having made the effort to have food with me did help from diving into the food table and allowed me to eat in moderation.
• Many times we allow ourselves to fall of our wagons - often saying things like "we will diet tomorrow". We could just stick to our plans and allow ourselves a little. No guilt comes with this option.
• This is the first time for me - to actually try this approach and successfully follow through. I am feeling very accomplished.
• And, guilt free
• Stay tuned...Cindy

Five more weeks to go...

• Last week was very exhausting. Children's activities are starting to wrap up and there are final performances to attend. Mosaic is just around the corner, so there are extra practices. Dance school pictures (needing hair and makeup done). The schedule gets pretty tight.
• And, I have blogger's block. Five more weeks to go and I have nothing to say (which I know some people are shaking their heads in disbelief. Apparently, I am not known for a shortage of things to say. )
• I think I am just exhausted.
• My husband made a suggestion: to talk about how he is feeling through all of this.
• He is very proud of my commitment and determination. (There have been mornings that I am at the gym before 6am.) And, he is also very tired of chicken (he didn't say that but I thought I would throw that in!)
• He also reminded me that I have made it past Valentine's Day, my birthday, Easter, and Mother's Day - all which provide a valid opportunity to overindulge. Which, I did not.
• And, if I need any additional motivation: just look at the medical gallery pictures. (More pictures have been posted!) There will be more gym pictures posted shortly as well.
• Good news: my daughter has confirmed that I now have a 2-pack!
• Goal for the week: make it to the end of the week.
• Stay tuned ...Cindy

"When the going gets tough, the tough get going"...

That is what my Dad always said. And the going is tough. Training six days a week. Six weeks to go. No Chocolate. A billboard looming. ARGGGG!!!!

• I am a single parent again. My husband and son are in Halifax for a week. Another sports tournament. I was not looking forward to this since the last time was a real struggle. Well surprise to me: second time around is not so bad.
• Sticking to a routine has its benefits. No more thinking. It's all about doing.
• My daughter is into the routine - the other morning she wakes me up (at 6 AM!!!) to see if we are going jogging with the dog. (Mommy has to get her cardio in, you know). I assured her that both the dog and I would be just fine if she slept until 7am. (I then got up and jogged on the treadmill).
• Even the treadmill is now into a routine. No more doubling as a clothes line.
• Since I knew this trip was coming, I made sure I booked all of my gym sessions around my other commitments and my daughter's activities - in advance! This was something I didn't to so successfully the first time around.
• I don't have to remember where I am going - I just look at my daytimer and go. All the gym bags and swim bags are packed the night before and are by the door to grab on the way out.
• My daughter left the house this morning with two different socks on, which reminded me I forgot to schedule in laundry (I had to forget something).
• Maybe she is starting a new fashion statement. Maybe I can train the dog to do laundry...
• Meal planning is always a challenge. Dishes are even a greater challenge - especially since my dishwasher left for a week. Can someone please invent a self-loading dishwasher????
• With my restricted meal plan, the limited number of choices actually makes planning a bit easier. However, I can assure everyone that once this is over - unless its deep fried (ha ha), or covered in sauce - I will not eat chicken breast again.
• My new "quick and easy" is quinoa. I cook a pot and keep it in the fridge. I substitute it for my carb meal (oatmeal) in the morning; I just add a 1/2 cup blueberries. My daughter loves it with a sprinkle of organic coconut and berries for school lunch. I soak the quinoa for a minimum of four hours before cooking it; I find it has a nuttier taste.
• Keep it simple! That is my new moto.

Stay tuned ...Cindy

Lucky thirteen...

• Shoes. I love shoes. Always have and always will. Especially heels. The sad part is the last three years I have been unable to wear my shoes because of chronic back pain. (I have also been unable to vacuum for the same reason however this is not near as sad.)
• During that time, I built a very close relationship with my Physiotherapist. I think some weeks I spent more time with him than my family. He got me pain free (as best he could) but I still could not wear heels.
• Unfortunately, due to my instabilities, I was not doing any exercises during this time. The goal was to stabilize my back and then (some time in the future) start an exercise program.
• Well, to his dismay, I won this contest. I still remember the comment he made when I told him: "well I hope this doesn't mean I will be seeing more of you". Deep down, I was hoping the same thing...
• The good news: I can wear my shoes! And, I am spending less time with my Physio.
• The improvement in my core stability is almost unbelievable, especially since I am not spending a great deal of time doing sit-ups. This speaks volumes for exercise quality vs. quantity. This, of course, speaks very highly of the trainers who ensure my technique is perfect for every exercise I perform.
• And, what are heels without a great pair of calf muscles?
• Friday, I tried a new machine for this muscle. Saturday my legs were a bit sore, but not too bad. Saturday evening, my husband and I attended a function and I decided to wear heels (since I now have a closet full of clothes that fit). Two hours later, I remove the shoes and I could not walk. Never did it occur to me that wearing heels causes your calf muscles to contract, which is not good after you exercise them (they need to be stretched). I tippy-toed for two days. I will not do that again.
• In celebration, I am thinking about buying a new pair of shoes! Cause that's what girls do. You can never have too many. But brace yourselves: I am thinking of buying biking shoes, the ones people wear for the spin classes. Yup, I think I'm addicted.
• Part of my workout regime is cardio training. I do 45 minutes of cardio 6 days a week. Part of the cardio training is interval training - which requires 30 seconds of going hard (on a bike, or treadmill) with a one minute recovery period. I was finding this hard to do on my own. So, I started attending the spin classes. Some have described this as one of the most unpleasant forms of exercise ever (I think running stairs with the medicine ball tops that one….) however it rocks when it comes to cardio and a leg muscle work out.
• My favorite part: the last race track when the facilitator is very loudly encouraging us to keep going and to just visualize our destination. I actually visualize my bike riding right past her. Works every time. A girl's got to do what a girl's got to do.

Stay tuned...Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number twelve.

Mind over matter... really...

• So, I am balancing on my butt (yes, my knees are in the air) and someone (the trainer) is throwing a 10 pound medicine ball at me. I am expected to catch it and toss it back to him while maintaining my balance (If you are shaking your head - you should be!!!) I'm told it's an abdominal workout - but someone really should have checked my coordination ability first. Yikes!
• Near the end of set #3 (of 10 million reps each) I reach for the ball (because why would the trainer throw it straight...) and wham! I hit the ground. The "athlete" stretching on the mat beside me says, "you need to control your body with your mind." Well that nice gentleman almost got the 10 pound medicine ball thrown at him. I would have - if I had the strength or could get off the floor!!! (Well - probably not, but at that point it was a really nice dream sequence).
• It is really a strange feeling when your brain says "just one more" and your body says "I don't think so!" This has been a common internal argument this past week. Why does my matter not listen to my mind????
• Just when I'm about to beat myself up about the inability to motivate my muscles - I am informed by my trainer that the same thing happens to him - and that is the goal: to fatigue those muscles!
• Now that my healing phase is over, training has now taken on a new level. At first it was a bit of a shock to the system. Have you ever done a set of arm curls after which you can't lift your water bottle?? Or my absolute favorite: running stairs carrying a medicine ball, and then trying to walk or just remain upright.
• Which reminds me of a question I was asked when interviewing for this competition: What are you going to do when you're being pushed to the point of feeling like you are going to vomit? After running stairs with a medicine ball, I now know the answer: take a deep breath and keep going. I'm ok with it - but I'm not sure how the other gym enthusiasts would feel if I actually did ...(vomit that is).
• To my amazement I discovered that there is such a thing as overdoing it - like I did on Saturday. Saturday was the big release of all the new tunes so Gold's had classes running back to back. I went to the morning spin class and thought - since I'm here I'll try the Active class (which was right after the spin class). It was good. Then I left (I had other commitments or I would have stayed the whole day). By the afternoon I could barely sit (good pain this time - not like last week). Sunday morning I went back to try the Centergy class. Let's just say "downward dog" was not happening that morning. The instructor approached me afterwards to see how I enjoyed the class (I hope it was because she has never seen me there before and not because I was the only one in "relaxation" most of the class...)
• On another note: A liquid meal can be a challenge for those of us who need the feel full feeling only achieved by a chewing meal (especially one with carbs or steak :) ). Something I have added (and was trainer approved) is Salba. I have added 2 Tablespoons to my afternoon protein shake. Salba is a cool ancient grain with many excellent properties but is low in calories (less than 50 in 2 Tablespoons), gluten free, sugar free and adds a bit of bulk to the shake which helps the body feel full longer. It is also a good source of protein and fiber.

Stay tuned ... -Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number eleven.

Flexibility... and I don't mean can you touch your toes?

• It is easy (ier) to remain focused and motivated when everything is going your way. But what happens when you hit a road block?
• Tuesday morning I woke up and could not get out of bed. I would love to blame it on a trainer but unfortunately it was not his fault: my SI joint was stuck or seized or whatever. What a pain in the butt! Literally - it was! Like a pinched sciatica nerve (I've had one of those before) but a billion times worse.
• Following a session with my physiotherapist (the one whom I pay, for advice) and my sister, the physiotherapist, (who dishes out the advice whether I want it or not) my cardio has stopped. No rapid walking. And no elliptical.
• Really - how damaging could the elliptical be? Thursday, I learned that one the hard way. After 45 minutes on the ?#@ machine I sat in my car unable to move. My phone was in the back seat - I could not call for help - and I could not move to shut my car door.
• I wondered: who would find me? And when? I barely got into the car - there was no way I was getting out without assistance. Yup - good Leader Post headline: Gym enthusiast - found after being stranded in car unable to move after workout - Because she did not listen!
• I did make it home - but once I got into the house, it really wasn't pretty. I could not put any weight on my right leg without agonizing pain. How am I supposed to burn the fat if I can't do cardio? Never did it cross my mind that if I couldn't walk, how was I getting to work? The next day I'm at the pharmacy asking the pharmacist: Ok how many anti-inflammatory pills can I take in a day without permanently damaging a major organ? Really - I have a goal. I only have 9 weeks left.
• When something does not go the way we want - or plan, quite often we throw in the towel and give up. The enthusiasm waivers. The motivation dies. It's my way or the highway.
• How about accepting what life dishes out to us - there is food for thought. Once we sit back and evaluate the situation if often does not look that bad. The glass is half full not half empty …. we all know what I'm talking about. So I can't do cardio. I can still do weight. And that is what I am doing.
• For the first time in 8 weeks I did crunches. 3 sets of 10. On an incline bench. It was easier than it was 8 weeks ago. Why? Maybe because my midsection is 5 inches smaller. I'm not sure if that is as exciting - or more exciting - than discovering all the clothes in my closet now fit!
• I've had several people this week say to me: I would not have the willpower to do what you are doing. Truth be known - neither do I. It's not all will power. It's a combination of willpower, determination, and the desire to change that keeps me going. And the support and encouragement of my family, friends, and trainers. I'm not on my own. None of us are. We just have to look around and we are surrounded. You won't know until you try.
• Thought for the day: Every cloud has a silver lining. We just need to be flexible and work with what we have. We need to keep our eyes on the prize.
• On another note: Many of the protein powders I have purchased are sweetened with sucralose (I will not do aspartame). I do not like artificial sweeteners - I don't believe in them and I find the after taste is just awful. I recently tried one which has no sweeteners or added flavor -but it tastes chalk. Yum. So, I started mixing my protein shakes 50% plain and 50% flavored protein. Less artificial sweetener consumed - and now I don't have to hold my breath to get it down.

Stay tuned ...-Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number ten. Half way there!!!

Couch Potato No More

Well I am happy to say I am back to the gym! I have no time to waste - only ten weeks left. No pressure.

Temptation

• The last couple of weeks have been an interesting challenge. Not going to the gym was a test - prior to my second procedure, it was easy to stay on track. Eat. Sweat. Eat. Sweat. But remove the sweat - now what? Well with more time on my hands, I watched TV. This usually involves eating.
• My sister came to visit on the weekend - we had girl's movie night. What is a movie without popcorn and other junk? (Yes, I ate popcorn! But mine was made with a touch of oil and NO Salt. Popcorn without butter is punishment itself! )
• Attention all ice cream fans - Milky Way is open. And let's not forget Easter is around the corner and what does that mean? Lindt chocolate. OK how much more can a girl take...

Motivation

• I went through my entire closet on the weekend. I have dropped one clothing size!
• Problem: How am I going to explain to my daughter that I sent a text message to the Easter Bunny and told him if he was bringing anything but books and crafts there would be no stopping and to keep on hopping.....
• Solution: Leave a memo from the Easter bunny informing my daughter that he is also part of her mom's support team (go figure) Wish me luck!

Revelation

• What has totally surprised me is how I just do not crave stuff - Usually. I just don't. Sometimes my head does (because I can't have it - I now want it???? But I have the same challenge with footwear.) I'm not saying it's easy - I'm just saying it's not as hard as I thought it would be. I only struggle if I don't eat regularly.

Preparation

• I never go anywhere unprepared - people have laughed as I remove the Ziploc bags of broccoli, celery and almonds from my purse in search of my keys...

Inspiration

• My family - they are so willing to do whatever it takes to provide support and encourage
• My friends - you rock!
• My trainers - you guys rock too! Half of a successful training session is a great trainer!
• And You - each and every one of you who has called, emailed, or stopped me on the street, to say you've seen the billboard or read the blog...Thanks so much!
• Stay tuned... -Cindy

This has been a very quiet week. Following a huge cold sore and lots of advice, I took the week off. No gym, no exercise - just healing and rest. I am feeling much better! I will return to the gym on Friday and see how it goes.

Stay tuned... -Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number eight.

Recovery - continued

Wednesday, I had my follow up appointment for my second procedure. My healing is "looking good!" For me, the second procedure was far less painful than the first and after one week, I am almost pain free. This is good - but also not so good because the pain was a continual reminder to take it easy. I still have fluid buildup around my waist (which is causing me more pain than the entire second procedure did.) It will go away. But in my mind, not fast enough. I will be on light gym activity again for the next six weeks. One down, five more to go.

• We all have bad days. Or, sometimes in my case - a bad week. Mine started Monday when I misplaced my keys. And it kind of went downhill from there. By Wednesday, it was apparent I had a good reason for having a bad week: I am sick.
• Although the fluid buildup around my waist is painful nothing, however, is as painful as my lip. I have a cold sore the size of a football on my lip. (Wonder if Dr Bastian could Lipo that????) I am not prone to cold sores so what the heck is up with this?
• By Wednesday night, I was not feeling so good. I was scheduled to go to the gym on Wednesday, but traded in a training session for a discussion on nutrition. Neil gave me the "how to choose a protein powder" lesson (the guy sure knows his stuff!). Rewarding, but not as rewarding as pumping some iron. Oh well.
• Today, my energy is up but my lip ... Well no use describing that. It's just ugly.
• My brother (who has had a long standing relationship with cold sores) shared some of his advice: Rest! His flair ups usually occurred with extreme fatigue (or physical exertion - like when he returned to the gym after not training for a while). Great. No gym today either.
• I guess I need to acknowledge that my body has been hit with some major changes in the last month.
• So what does a girl do when she is feeling blue??? Eat. We girls like our comfort food. And what better of a time, right? Wrong. My husband and daughter baked cookies the other day. When I asked my daughter if I could have a small piece, she looked me square in the eye and said, "Mom - cookies are NOT on your meal plan." (The word diet is not used in our house) Then she said, "Remember Mom, it's all about the climb". (Support network - yes, I am surrounded. Wonder what side the dog is on...) "The Climb" - thank you Miley Cyrus (if anyone is not familiar with the song, just google the lyrics. If you have a 10 year old girl who sings it all the time - you will know the lyrics!):
  "The struggles I'm facing - The chances I'm taking - Sometimes might knock me down - But no, I'm not breaking.... And I, I got to be strong - Just keep pushing on!" Thank you God - for giving me a child wise beyond her years. (And one who can carry a tune!) What happened to one who listened to her parents and cleaned her room (too much to ask for I guess ...).
• Thought for the day: Life is an uphill battle - and it really is not about how fast I get there. It's the getting there that is important. It's all in the climb. Point taken. Hmmm, speaking of climb I wonder when the next spin class is and if that is considered light activity.......

Stay tuned... -Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number seven.

Procedure #2

Painkillers - A blissful way to spend the day however not so productive when trying to write a blog. I had my second procedure yesterday (Thursday). Everything went very well. The procedure areas were the flanks and bra line. I am quite excited for my one week follow up to see the changes in those areas. Sitting and lying down are a bit of a challenge, but I am not near as sore as I was with the first procedure. Ryan had his second procedure on Thursday as well. Hope your healing is going well!

Circuit Training

• My training has primarily consisted of weights (upper/lower body - no abs) and low intensity cardio. Monday, Neil introduced me to circuit training. We had one session earlier but I thought this was a "one time" way to increase my cardio since I have been restricted in this area. Apparently not.
• Circuit training is an efficient and challenging form of conditioning, generally described as a "combination of high-intensity aerobics and resistance training designed to be easy to follow and target fat loss, muscle building and heart fitness".
• That's a lot to accomplish in one exercise session, don't you think? But, I am all for goal setting,
• Generally, the exercises are easy to follow. However, this would depend on the coordination of the person being trained. When I'm not oxygen deprived, I am quite coordinated - I can walk, talk, and chew gum all at the same time (like most parents). Apparently, when I'm oxygen deprived, coordination is the first to go. How many times does a trainer need to describe an exercise? No need to answer that - Thank goodness Neil has patience.
• Part of the circuit required the use of the spin bikes for some interval pedaling. This consisted of 30 seconds of pedaling as fast as I could, followed by 30 seconds of slow pedaling/recovery (three sets I think - is memory failure another sign of oxygen deprivation??). All was good until meal #4 wanted to come back up. (Another good thing to keep in mind - make sure I eat at least one hour BEFORE I go to the gym.)
• Speaking of oxygen deprivation, did you know that circuit training requires life support? Well, it does if you are wearing a compression garment. (I wonder if carrying around an oxygen tank can be considered a muscle building exercises?) All that "high-intensity" exercise requires some deep "rib expanding" breathing - not an easy feat when confined in a compression garment. Who knew I would need a medical alert bracelet for a compression garment? On the bright side - only five more weeks of the garment. Then, freedom!
• Seriously, it was a real good session. I never passed out and no ambulance was required. Neil even suggested that I should stay for the spin class afterwards. Patience and a good sense of humor. Qualities everyone needs in a personal trainer. But I did stay for the spin class. And survived. All in a day at the gym.
• Wednesday it was back to weights. I did my first bench press (with weights, not just the bar - I am very proud of this!). I am getting stronger! (or building pipes, as my son says).

Stay tuned... -Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number Six!

Recovery

It has been three weeks since my first procedure. On March 3, I had my second follow- up appointment. My healing is progressing great. I do have a buildup of fluid around my waist (which is completely normal). Every day I feel less and less sore.

Support

We humans are strong. With determination and willpower, we can climb mountains (or is it move mountains - well you know what I mean). But, with a good support network, we can change the world. Our support network picks us up when we fall, hugs us when we have a bad day, and encourages us to keep going. Yes, we can go it alone. But why would we when we can go further, farther, faster, with a good support network.

My support network is comprised of many, but my rock is my husband. He has been by my side without a complaint. He helped change my bandages, helped me to get out of bed when I couldn't do it myself, has kept me away from desserts (an accomplishment all of its own) and can probably write a book on 101 ways to cook a chicken breast (which is about how many ways he has learned, just to help me stick to my meal plan). He has laughed with me (not at me - he knows better) when I could barely move from my work outs. All of this with a smile.

The going has been good - until I was blind-sided by responsibility. My husband flew to Victoria last week (our son was attending a sports tournament.) Well, just rock my fairytale - you may as well have cut off my right arm.

I was now faced with getting myself and our daughter ready for the day, packing lunches (remember I eat every 3 hours) getting her to school, me to work, making meals, and getting to the gym. Then, our daughter got sick - now I am sleep deprived. Sound familiar? No different than any other parent's average day.

I'm a parent. It's not like all of this is new to me. I can juggle quite skillfully. We parents do what we have to: survive! The Catch? It's some of these survival skills we parents use that are no longer part of my repertoire - like opening a can of soup for supper, or grabbing a cookie on the run because a sit-down meal is just not in the cards today. Or Fast Food Friday (on Thursday, Friday and what the heck..Saturday too!)

It is so easy to fall back on old habits but I just refuse to do that (my extreme lifestyle change is still in the "adjustment phase"). Skipping the gym is just not an option and if time didn't permit the chicken/vegetable meal, then I had the protein shake meal instead. No junk! My dad always said I was not a quitter. I set my sights on the prize, put my head down , and I was off running. Thanks Dad - you taught me well.

We survived. I didn't cheat on the meal plan. We didn't miss any activities (just about, but didn't), and when I had to take her to the gym on Friday for my workout session (only to find out it's the North location that has childcare) a desperate phone call to a friend (see - support network) helped me through. And if I couldn't go the gym for my cardio - I dusted of my treadmill and used it for real reason it was invented!

Thought for the day: Don't ever under-estimate the importance of support - don't take it for granted and let them know how grateful you are. You never know how important something is until it is gone. (Note to self - buy that man flowers!)

My husband is now forbidden to leave the City until July.

Coming up next:

March 11 - second procedure.

Stay tuned...Cindy

Hello everyone. Week number five. To all who have been asking "How is it going?" It is going great! I am feeling like a million bucks.

My daily activities are back to normal, but I am still restricted on the exercises I can do because I am healing. Cardio has been a bit of a challenge since my procedure. I can't walk fast enough to get my heart rate up (yes, walking involves your midsection) and the bike is difficult because of the compression garment. Patience is not my strongest virtue - I want to go hard but know that I can't.

Since I started going to the gym, I have been completely exhausted. I am told that my body is adjusting to the exercise and after several weeks I won't be so tired. More patience needed. Great.

Friday, February 19:

• Do you know how many body movements (directly or indirectly) involve the use of your mid- section? Well, lots. I know this because of the challenges I faced the first week following my procedure: even getting into the car was a bit of a challenge. This was expected.
• How many lower body exercises involve (even indirectly) the midsection? Lots. Are there any that don't? Neil (the trainer) found several.
• Thanks to Neil, I could not sit all day Saturday. But since I am restricted on what type of cardio I can do, this would be a good thing. If I can't do thirty minutes of intense cardio, I will walk all day. Intensity replaced with longevity. Good thinking.
• My family thanks Neil as well. Having done a billion squats, I could not squat on Saturday either. So anytime I dropped something, someone was summoned to pick it up because I could not get down to the floor. I found this amusing. Apparently, they were not as amused......

Tuesday, February, 23

• I've adjusted! I can move! Yesterday was upper body day and I can lift my arms above my head!
• My muscles have finally given in and accepted the fact that the life they knew is gone. I am sore (if I wasn't , then Tony is not doing his job ) but I can lift my arms above my head! This is a good thing.
• I am not nearly as tired. I can now stay awake past 9:30. I now only crash at 10:00.

Wednesday, February 24:

Today, my thoughts are with Ryan. He is having his first procedure. Good Luck Ryan!

Coming up next:

• March 11 - second procedure.

Hello everyone. It's been a quiet week. I am still recovering from my first procedure. Here is a summary of what's been going on so far:

Monday, February 15:

• Family Day: spent the day baking and decorating cupcakes with my daughter (48 to be exact). My son chose to participate in the final baking step: consuming. Tomorrow is my daughter's 10th birthday and she is taking the treats to school to share with her class. This would be the first time ever in my life that I have baked anything and not licked the bowl clean. Not an easy feat.

Tuesday, February, 16

• Birthday Day, so I had a cupcake. I thought I would feel guilty but I didn't. I was glad it was one cupcake and not five (they are small you know). I enjoyed every bite. I figure the road to success is not to punish myself but be smart about my choices. Besides, does a happy mind not help heal the body?
• Hope Neil doesn't watch the TV show "The Last 10 Pounds". That trainer gets nasty when his client cheats.
• Hope Neil doesn't read my blog

Wednesday, February 17:

10: 45 AM

Today I had my follow up appointment with Dr Bastian. Everything is healing beautifully. My bruising is minimal and I've adjusted to wearing the compression garment.

• Dr. Bastian showed me a comparison of my "before" and "after" picture. My jaw dropped. Watch the gallery for those photos which will be posted soon.
• I got the green light to resume my training at the gym, but I am on a light training program for another three weeks and I have to limit my work out to exercises which are not "jarring" (i.e.: jogging) to allow my body to heal.

6:00 PM

• Met Neil at the gym for my session. We targeted the arms and upper body since my lower body is off limits. I love how I do a set of dumbbell curls and then for the second set, he hikes the weight. His goal was to ensure my muscles were "tired". He will be happy to know they are still "tired" 48 hours later.
• 30 minutes of cardio - I tried the bike, since jogging is not an option.
• Got home exhausted. I love the gym! It's good to be back.

Coming up next: More Gym time. Stay tuned ...Cindy

Hello everyone. I cannot believe it is week number three already. Like they say, time flies when you are having fun. I am loving the gym! The diet is going really well. My biggest challenge is remembering to eat every three hours. I know it sounds easy - but it's not. I've had to set an alarm the first week.

Here is a summary of what's been going on so far:

Saturday, February 6:

• Training session #3. Since I have my own paparazzi, he followed me to the gym. Check out the gallery to view the trainer in action - I'm the prop. Actually, Tony really puts me through the paces (if you look hard, I really am sweating!)
• It is a benefit having personal instruction when at the gym. After all, I'm there to train, not injure myself.

Tuesday, February 9:

• Met my second trainer Neil. We focused on my diet. Bless his heart, he gave me variety. (Not that I was getting bored with chicken, broccoli, and protein shakes. Nope, not at all)
• I will be taking a bit of a break this week, since my first procedure is on Wednesday.
• See you next Wednesday Neil!

Wednesday, February 10: LIPO DAY

• It is procedure day! Today I am getting lipo on my upper and lower abs.
• My biggest stress today: medical pictures. No one ever looks good in those. So here I am doing my hair and makeup hoping it will make a difference. Probably not. But you can't blame a girl for trying. (I should have asked Ryan to send me that tan by air mail).
• Hair and makeup done - check
• Big breakfast - check
• We arrive at Nu Image on 7:50 (a bit late - drove right by the building ...) Donna is there to greet me - she will be my nurse for today. She hands me a robe, and some very trendy sandals. OK, I'm now dressed for success. Dr Bastian arrives (with a cup of my favorite name brand coffee). And he shares - (check the gallery for that one). What a great way to start the day!
• Since I will be awake for the procedure, Dr Bastian asks me what style of music I would like. I let him choose (Happy Doctor - Happy patient, although Dr Bastian is always happy.)
• Before we begin, Dr Bastian surgically marks my abdomen. It truly was a work of art - kind of like a topographic map but better (I should have asked him to autograph it - oh well, maybe the second procedure).
• Marilyn Munroe - eat your heart out - I am now wrapped in a beautiful compression garment very reminiscent of the 1930's bathing suit. Dr Bastian described it perfectly - one size fits none.
• It was really amazing to be awake - I'm a need to know person, so I really take great interest in what was happening. We chatted away, and the next think you know, it was all over.
• Homeward bound I go - to get some rest.....

Hi Ryan - love the holiday pictures you sent! Call me when you get back - it was a piece of cake! (Well maybe not cake, but you now know what I'm missing from my diet!)

Coming up next:

• Recovery time
• More Gym time

Stay tuned...

- Cindy

Hello everyone. It has been a busy week! - thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement; it means a lot! To those who have volunteered to exercise with me on the days I'm not with the trainer, thanks, it is always good to have a work out partner.

Here is a summary of what's been going on so far:

Saturday, January 30:

• Met Laurie at Gold's Gym - time to meet the trainers and formulate a plan.
• This is a totally awesome facility - if you have not had the tour, please do so. The place is full of energy and the staff is really wonderful - it makes you look forward to being there.

Tuesday, February 2:

• 6:30pm - With gym bag in hand, off to the gym I go. Today, we are going to start that plan. I was pumped!
• Sat down with the trainer to review my new meal plan. Food as I knew it (notice the past tense) seems to no longer exist. No longer is there breakfast, dinner, or supper. Now, it is meal #1, meal #2 all the way to meal #6. I am to eat every three hours and drink 3 liters of water per day. I already graze and drink lots of water so this requirement should not be too difficult. However, my best friends are now chicken, broccoli and protein shakes (how can you call it a meal if there is no chewing involved. Really.) I told him chocolate was a food group - he was not amused.
• I stepped on a scale that calculated my weight, BMI, body fat content etc. Cool machine - not so cool report. Appears I have a bit of work to do - but I already knew that. No surprise there.
• Let's start the exercise program. Well, I can tell right now this is going to be a love-hate relationship. We do a bit of legs. "Well, that seemed easy", he says and hikes the weight (guess he forgot that I actually need to WALK out of the gym tonight...) Then, there was the arms (I could barely lift my arm to scratch my nose when we were done - but I am still smiling )
• I thought my arms were the weakest part of my body. Not so much - that would be my abs. Yup... he found the weakest. Nothing like putting a mom of 2 (with no abs to speak of) on an incline bench and say "give me 10 sit-ups". I could barely lift my leg that high to get into the contraption. With a bit of help from the trainer, I did the 10 sit-ups - and then 2 more sets of five. High Five!! Well it would be if I could lift my arm (ha ha!)
• "Now up to the treadmill for 20 minutes of cardio with a 4 degree incline" "yes sir!"
• I originally thought I would walk home from the gym, but 5 minutes into the cardio I'm thinking "call for a ride, heck just call for the ambulance!" My husband has great mental telepathy ( many years of training - just kidding Hon, Love You) because just on cue he shows up "thought you might like a ride" (He truly is my biggest fan! And supporter!)
• "Thanks Hon" - I think I smiled but I'm not sure - no muscle in my body is responding at this point.
• I barely made it down the stairs. When I got home I laid on the floor. Can't get up - the room is spinning and I think I'm going to puke. Nice.
• And I get to do this again on Thursday...
• Like they say, no pain - no gain. Well then, bring on the pain.

Thursday, February 4:

• Gym time - again. Can you feel the love?
• I felt not TOO bad after the first work out. I was a bit sore but I could still lift my fork and coffee cup, so all was good. Haven't started the diet yet since I need to shop first (for food and protein powder in case that wasn't clear) but I will since this is a key part of the training. Still thinking I can convince him about the chocolate?
• Second session went very well. I think I am getting the hang of this - and I am starting to really enjoy it. (I had fun on Tuesday - I just didn't recognize it at the time). The Trainer is a great guy - that helps a lot! And, he knows his stuff.
• Making sure I eat before the workout is important - I need that energy to get through the session. Had one of Gold's yummy protein shakes afterwards. Tastes great AND is good for you.
• Hopefully, I can get out of bed in the morning.

Coming up next:

Countdown begins to the first procedure. Feeling pretty calm so far. I know I will be in great hands (thanks Dr Bastian!)

• Wednesday, February 10 - first procedure (upper and lower abs)
• More Gym time

Stay tuned...

- Cindy

Here I am, Cindy Greschner, one of the 2010 6-Pack Challenge Winners. I am a busy wife and mother in a very active family, holding down a full-time job, and volunteering in my community. After putting the needs of everyone else in my life ahead of my own, I'm convinced the fit body trapped inside is ready to re-appear. But sometimes one must think outside the box - try something new! Like, entering a contest (why not?). What did I have to lose? (Well, according to the mirror, I could stand to lose a bit!)

And call they did - well, Nu Image did. January 13, 2010. 7:03 pm. I am attempting to do Wii fit yoga (to the hysteria of my family) and the phone rings.

"Hello" says my daughter - "no mommy is busy now can I take a message". She hands the phone to my husband.

"OK" I hear him say and he hands the phone to me. "She says she needs to talk to you right away."

"Hi Cindy, its Laurie - I have some good news!". From that point the rest of the conversation is pretty much a blur. In fact, I think I may have been rendered speechless (I know, that will be hard to believe for some). And, let's not forget the cheering from my family support group in the background.

Am I excited? - Hmm, maybe a little. I'll let you know once both of my feet are planted back on the ground. Here is what has happened so far......

Thursday, January 21:

• I had my initial consultation at Nu Image. Paperwork - thank you to the wonderful nurse for holding my hand through that; definitely not for the faint of heart. - Just kidding, it was not that bad. I was fully informed of all the precautions and "what could but most likely won't happen". I had a chat with Dr Bastian - he checked my heart (yes, to my children - the doctor has confirmed I have a heart) and my blood pressure was great (surprising, since I am raising a teen).
• Bill of health - check
• Prescription - check
• Blood work requisition - check
• Time frame for procedures - check
• Meeting with Gold's trainer/ nutritionist scheduled - check

Now, I am excited! Since that Wednesday night when I received the phone call, I had given the contest little thought - working full time and two active children leaves little time for moss to grow. But now, it is starting to feel like a reality. I am very excited that there will be two of us. Nothing like sharing the journey with someone who is going through it at exactly the same time as me. I am very excited to meet Ryan!

Friday, January 22:

• Met Ryan - what a great guy! Can't think of a more deserving winner!
• Had our photo shoot with a very talented photographer. Not sure which is going to be more humbling - the billboard, or knowing that people are going to read my blog!
• The photo session went very well - nothing like a bit of pampering from a makeup artist to make a girl feel special.

Wednesday, January 27:

• Received a mock up of the billboard. OK, it truly is larger than life. OMG you can really tell it's me - ALL of me. And there it is for ALL to see. At this point - I think the billboard is more humbling than the blog; nothing like a healthy dose of public pressure
• But on a positive note, the next billboard will rock. Right?

Coming up next:

What's next on the agenda? Thanks to Laurie, all of my procedures are now booked (way to keep us organized Laurie).

• The week of February 1 - meet with my Gold's Gym personal trainers and nutritionist
• Wednesday, February 10 - first procedure (upper and lower abs)
• Wednesday, March 10 - second procedure (flanks)

Stay tuned...

-Cindy