We have been in this together for 20 weeks. I wish I'd been able to workout for the full 20 weeks. With the healing and injuries, it worked out to be about 10 weeks of strong workouts. I feel like I could really have used the full 20 weeks at Gold's. I am happy with the procedures that I have done. I do look 100% better than when I started. I must say we are our own worst critics. I wish the 6-pack was popping out. I am still retaining fluid so the abs are not showing up as much as I'd like. We do have a few more weeks before the billboard goes up and I will do what ever it takes to improve my look so everyone is proud of me. I might even be proud of myself!

This is the last blog I will write and I am not too disappointed about that. Ironically, I'm quite a talker in person so you would think I'd have lots to say.

I have had people ask me, "would I do it again?" Yes, I definitely would. This has been a great time in my life to reconnect with myself and to see what some hard work and commitment to healthy eating would do. And, yes, I'd even do the Lipo again! I plan to keep up the routine so I will have the body I want. I must also realize that all our bodies are different and will react differently to exercise and diet changes. And let's not forget, I'm not getting any younger!

I am very excited about my first Botox treatment at the 10th anniversary of Nu Image. It should be a lot of fun and I hope to see some familiar faces there.

I love the fact so many people travelled with me on this journey and supported me all along the way. I love you all.

I would like to thank a few people:

• The Gold's Gym Team, including Max the Enforcer, and Michael: Thank you for all your work and extra effort you've extended to me.
• Simon at Popeye's for all your help with all my supplements – it has been great.
• Clint and Kerrie – you have been there right from the beginning when I first received the call from Nu Image when I won. You are true friends and will always be in my heart.

Meer words could never be enough to thank the Nu Image team. You gave me something I have not had in a long time – self confidence. I thank you all from the bottom of my heart, but I must point out three very special people – Dr. Bastian, P.L. and Laurie. Each of you who have made this a great experience.

There are so many other people to thank as well. You all know who you are, and I thank you for helping me along this incredible life journey.

To everyone out there reading this each week and sending comments and all the encouragement – THANK YOU ALL!

Thank you, Shelda! It has been a hard road these past few months with everything from post-procedure leaking to special meals and grocery and supplement shopping. I don't know what to say, it has been as challenging for you as it has been for me. I love you and hope you continue to help me with diet, exercise and to keep an all-round healthy lifestyle. Without your help, I might not have made it. Thank you and I love you.

And finally, my partner in this journey – Cindy. You are a wonderful person and have done so well. I know it was a challenge for you and your family but well worth it – you look fantastic! You have been a great source of inspiration for me and so many others out there reading your blogs and following your progress. Thanks for everything. You have become a true friend and will never forget all your encouraging words. Mark, you're a lucky man and thank you as well for all your photos.

Again, I thank everyone for all you have done for me. I must say in some ways, I feel a little sad that this is all coming to an end. This may be the end of this contest, but it is a beginning of a new life filled with new friends.

I guess it is time to say 'so long'; I prefer it as saying 'good bye' seems too final. Watch for our final billboards throughout the city in July, plus more pictures will be posted on the website. I will see all of you again soon and will keep in touch with those of you who are far away.

Don't stop living the dream.

"Every day do something that will inch you closer to a better tomorrow." - Doug Firebaugh

My final words are a quote for Father's Day that was a favourite of someone I knew long ago. I was blessed with two fathers – Dad and Fred who together have made me the person I am today. Happy Fathers' Day to both of you!

"I expect to pass through life but once. If therefore, there be any kindness I can show, or any good thing I can do to any fellow being, let me do it now, and not defer or neglect it, as I shall not pass this way again." ~William Penn

Until I see you all again.
Ryan

This has been a crazy week for me with injuries and all, but we will talk about that in a moment.

BIG NEWS! Nu Image is celebrating their 10-year anniversary on June 22 from 5 pm to 9 pm. This will be open to the general public so please come in and see all their exciting product lines and all the ways they can pamper you and your spouse.

There will be a Botox demonstration on guess who…me! You will be able to see first hand how this procedure is done and see the fabulous results. Ladies, it is not just for you gals – we men want to look our best too! Please come down and see my Botox experience...I'm excited!

Now back to my injury. It has been a very long hard week and I have not been able to work out due to hurting myself at work. I am back at it this week with all my might. I look and feel 100% better. Even with all the workouts, I am having a hard time seeing those abs pop out. It's due to retaining so much water so I am taking the Water Tight supplement to help. We'll see how it works by the June 28 photo shoot. Between my diet, workouts, taking the Ripped Freak and Water Tight, I hope to show you some great results. I am stressing a lot, but getting fantastic support from Nu Image and Gold's.

Until our final chapter next week, here's some words of wisdom from William Hazlitt: "The seat of knowledge is in the head, of wisdom, in the heart."

Don't forget the 10th Anniversary of Nu Image on June 22 from 5 to 9 p.m. Please RSVP to Laurie at 790-1883 or laurie@nuimage.ca

Regards, Ryan

Well, hello, and I am back for another week. I apologize for the lateness of my blog. I injured my hand at work and typing with one hand is even slower for me than my usual "hunt and peck" pace!

As we're now in the home stretch, there is not a lot left to say, so I will just give you a break down of the week.

Heading into the Challenge, I did not know how hard this whole thing was going to be - between work, trying to get times set up with a trainer and working out. This has been quite a challenge in itself to coordinate all my appointments.

My abs are still the prime workout that Max and I have been doing, with a small amount of upper body work. As I mentioned last week, I have re-injured my shoulder and between all the pain and discomfort, it is been a real challenge. When you have a shoulder injury, you would be surprised that no matter what you do or how you do your exercise, you will always feel it in your shoulder.

This Wednesday, Max and I did something we never have done before. We did one work out in the morning, then right after I did one hour of cardio, then 45 minutes later we did another session. Boy, was that a long day! I have never worked out so hard. Ever.

My abs are starting to show. I still have a tiny bit of skin, but no fat hiding them. I am doing everything in my power from cardio to supplements to try look my best. I have talked to Mike at Gold's and he has been helping by giving me some great ideas. Hopefully we will be fine for that billboard that is coming ohhhhhhhhhhhh so soon.

On Saturday, Cindy and I went to Gold's North for some cardio and I showed her some of the things I have been doing on my abs. I'm not sure if she would like to do most of them, but there are days that I don't either! Make sure you check out Cindy's web pages. She looks awesome! You've got me beat Girl!

To all of you following along with the 6-Pack Challenge and trying to make some positive changes to your own diet and fitness routine, keep up the good work, and most importantly, keep on going!

"In everything, the ends well defined are the secret of durable success." – Victor Cousins

Until next week, take care.
Ryan

Welcome to Week 17! I seem to have lost a week somewhere. I thought last week was Week 15. I don't know if I should be happy because I'm closer to the end of the 6-Pack Challenge or worried because I thought I had one more week to work towards my goals.

I am concentrating my efforts on my abs and working hard at Gold's. I re-injured my shoulder so it has limited my upper body workouts. It's an old injury that surgery didn't improve. Working out makes it worse, so I have to be careful working some muscle groups. I am still working my abs diligently and that's the focus!

I'm really getting some compliments from people out there. Thanks to Nu Image and Gold's who can share in the success! It's a little odd having complete strangers compliment me.

I'm really noticing a difference in my body. I have to say I'm starting to feel pretty proud about the change. The abs aren't popping out as much as I'd like, but they're getting there. They've been hiding under a layer of fat for so long, they're afraid to show themselves!

The workout routine is pretty difficult these days. The thing that is the most difficult is actually making the time to workout. It's tough to balance work, fitness and personal responsibilities. It's important to schedule workout time just like we would any other important appointment. We all need to make physical activity a priority.

Eating a healthy diet is going well and it is something I am committed to maintain after the Challenge. I'm happy about how I look and I'm even happier about how I feel. I have much more energy and my mind is better focused.

I am continuing on the Ripped Freak and Water Tight supplements and they are both doing what they're meant to do. Water Tight sure makes you pee lots! I guess that's the whole idea, and it's working!

Three more weeks and the 6-Pack Challenge will draw to a close. It's a fantastic program and I'm incredibly happy with the support I've received from the team at Nu Image and at Gold's. I can't thank them enough.

"Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do." – John Wooden, They Call Me Coach

Until next week – keep moving towards your goal! And when you reach that goal, set another!

Regards,
Ryan

As promised, I'm going to chat about the challenges of eating out at restaurants when you're trying to watch what you eat.

It's happened to all of us - you're doing really well eating what you should to maintain a healthy diet. And then it happens. Your buddies invite you out for pizza and a couple of cold ones. UGH. Your willpower stays at home and you meet the boys at the neighborhood pizzeria. You eat their trademark pizza - you know the one with 2 inches of toppings and enough melted cheese to slam your arteries shut. Of course, you have to wash it down with something cold and it isn't ice water. You share some laughs and wake up the next morning riddled with guilt for over eating and burdened with a hangover.

It doesn't have to be that way. I'm not saying that you have to sequester yourself in your basement crunching celery sticks and drinking lemon-water. Most restaurants - even the fast food places - offer a healthy alternative. You just have to make the right (although sometimes tough) choices. You'll be glad you did.

Here are some tips:

• Avoid the fresh bread basket. Even if it comes with your meal, ask your server not to bring it to the table. Substitute those starchy carbs that end up as a spare tire around the middle for veggies.
• Choose the 6-ounce tenderloin instead of the 12-ounce prime rib or the grilled chicken burger for the deep-fried one or the bison for the beef burger.
• Watch out for those hidden calories. Just because it's a salad, it doesn't mean its low in calories. Have you ever checked the calorie and fat count on Caesar salad? You might as well have the fries!
• Beware of the forgotten calories in beverages. Alcohol averages about 100 calories per ounce for hard liquor and liqueurs. A friend's martini night with the girls can land her 1,000 calories just in booze. She won't even talk about the appetizers.
• There's a lot of controversy over diet drinks and the internet is full of interesting research. Check it out. I don't like diet drinks so they don't even hit my radar.
• Good things to try are green and herbal teas, 1% or skim milk, vegetable & fruit juices, and ice water. A single glass of red wine is full of antioxidants and stimulates your liver. You notice I said single glass. Another good choice is club soda with a squeeze of real lime, not the premixed bar lime juice. You can also mix it with your fruit juice to satisfy your thirst and reduce your calories.

It's also important to carefully choose where you eat. If you do decide to eat something that's not quite on your healthy food list, you want it to be well prepared and served to you with excellent customer service. You don't necessarily have to pay high prices to get superior service or quality prepared meals.

Make eating in restaurants a treat and not a regular occurrence. That way if you want to treat yourself to the double baked potato you aren't likely to do it again for another six months. You're also able to better afford a slightly higher priced restaurant if it's something you do once a month rather than once a week or more.

"Nothing tastes as good as being healthy and full of energy feels." - Unknown

Have a great week and enjoy the sunshine!

Ryan

This is going to be a very short blog. I'll have more to say on Friday with my week 16 posting when I write about the challenge of eating in restaurants when you're trying to eat healthy.

I've been working hard on my abs at Gold's and definitely seeing results. The supplements also seem to be doing their job. I'm really into working the program. The last few weeks have been very encouraging and have helped keep me motivated.

Thanks again to my entire support system for keeping me feeling positive – the Nu Image team, Max the Enforcer, Mike from Gold's, Simon from Popeye's, Shelda, and all my friends and family. You're keeping me 'keeping on'!

I'll leave you with a belated Mother's Day quote:

"When you look into your mother's eyes, you know that is the purest love you can find on this earth." - Mitch Albom (For One More Day)

Regards,

Ryan

This has been a crazy week for me. Work has been super busy. As part of my job, I am on call and it is that time of year when I am called out many times a week.

We have covered the diet and work out regime very well. You should all have a good grasp on what needs to be done. I hope you are following your own regime and meeting your own goals. And remember don't give up!

This week, I am going to talk about supplements. On Monday, Cindy, Laurie, and I met with Michael, the manager of Gold's. We went through the remaining eight weeks, what needs to been done, and how we will modify our diets and work outs. Michael also recommended some supplements which will help us to achieve our goals; particularly fat burners and diuretic agents.

Supplements…what should we take? What kinds, brands and where do we buy them? Well, I am taking 'Ripped Freak', which is a hybrid fat burner. This is a great way to lose a few extra pounds and to increase energy. I will be taking this for a full two cycles, or in other words, two months.

The other product I am going to talk about is 'Water Tight'. This is a diuretic. You are all probably saying what the heck is that? It is a product to reduce water weight to give you a more ripped look. Water Tight does a few things: it reduces water weight and bloating, eliminates puffiness and even reduces cellulite. This is a natural diuretic.

With all supplements you MUST follow the directions very carefully. I like to always start with a small bottle because we never know how our bodies will react to them. The biggest thing with supplements is to speak to experienced people for advice. I go to Popeye's here in Regina. They have an excellent selection of supplements for body building, losing weight, or just to maintain good health. I suggest you stop by and talk to Simon, as he has always provided great service to me. Thanks Popeye's.

It is also very important to consult your doctor before you start taking any supplements – even the 'all natural' ones.

My work outs are awesome; I am still working my abs like crazy. Max the Enforcer is really pushing me, and I'm starting to see the results and feel them. I will have to shed some more weight so they will just pop out. Diet, cardio and the supplements will help with that. Everyone has abs, you just need to eliminate that layer of fat for them to pop out.

Thank you to Nu Image, Gold's Gym and Popeye's for all the help and encouragement. leading up to this point; I already consider myself successful.

"Persistent people begin their success where others end in failure." - Edward Eggleston

So for all of you - be very persistent and you goals and dreams will come true.

Regards,
Ryan

As a way to tell you about my week, I'm going to share my meal plan with you.

For starters I have dropped from 208lbs to 178 lbs! That's just about 5% body fat so this program really is working. I just want to know when these beautiful abs of mine are going to actually pop out. I know they are there somewhere because I can sure feel them when I'm working out at Golds!

Ok, for those of you following your own meal plan and want some help, here's my meal plan. You all know about the types of things to eat and what to avoid. You'll see that I eat smaller meals several times a day.

This is my typical day with my meal plan. Don't let the fat servings scare you; I'll explain them in a bit. Please keep in mind that this is a very restrictive diet for a short time period.

Meal 1
4 servings protein
2 servings starchy carbs
1 serving fat
green veggies

Meal 2
4 servings protein
2 servings fat
green veggies

Meal 3
4 servings protein
1 serving fruit
2 serving fat

Meal 4
4 servings protein
1 serving starchy carbs
2 serving fat
green veggies

Meal 5
4 servings protein
3 servings fat
green veggies

Meal 6
4 servings protein
2 servings fat

Now that you have the lay out, let's look what all these things mean. Let's start with protein. For meat, it must be very lean. I don't eat red meat so for me it's chicken, tuna, egg whites, and chicken, and chicken. And did I mention chicken? It's also very important to add protein shakes.

Fat for me is mainly nuts (maybe that's why I am so nutty!) I also get some fat from olive oil. I'd prefer to get it from cheese or ice cream, but for now I'll stick to healthy fat.

Speaking of cheese and ice cream, I don't have any dairy products due to the fat content. When you have dairy, stick with fat free or low fat products.

Fruits are pretty straight forward, but as for anything, keep in moderation. In the case of veggies, the darker green the better – green beans, broccoli and spinach. You see where I am going with this.

For, starchy veggies, it can be a baked potato with no skin or yams or sweet potato – that's what I eat.

Starches – only whole wheat bread, bagels, pitas, or tortilla. I must say I do not really take in the starches, but a good all round meal plan needs them. I do eat rolled oats. And just a tip here – if you are eating oatmeal for breakfast, make sure it's the large flake type that you have to cook for about 10-15 minutes. A simple rule of thumb is that the more convenient something like rice or oatmeal is to cook, the less nutritious it is.

I take in no added sugar. My main drinks are water and water. I do have a cup of coffee in the morning and drink all natural teas. It's best to stick with herbal or green tea.

You are probably all thinking this may be a bit bland. It can be. So here's what I use: FRANKS RED HOT. Oh ya, it's good. I spice things up with lemon juice and rinds, sodium free Mrs. Dash, and spices like oregano, cayenne pepper, etc.

I hope this has given you a bit of insight to the meal plan and what I eat on a daily basis to help me achieve my goals. This is a pretty strict régime for a specific purpose. I will maintain a healthy diet when the challenge is over, but I will incorporate things back into my diet I'm not eating now, such as low fat dairy. As I mentioned in an earlier blog, the Canada Food Guide is one of the best and easiest plans to follow.

I have to admit, I am very nervous about the last billboard going up. I need and want so badly to have picture-perfect abs. However, I already feel a million times better and no matter what, I have already won.

I hope what ever healthy lifestyle journey you are on that you will never give up. We didn't get this way overnight and we will not get fit overnight. It takes one day at a time. Just change one bad habit at a time, and you will succeed.

Until next week, take care.

To conquer oneself is the best and noblest victory; to be vanquished by one's own nature is the worst and most ignoble defeat. – Plato

Regards,
Ryan

This will have to be a short blog. It's been a wicked week at work and I'm exhausted trying to keep up with Max the Enforcer!

Max and I are continuing to focus workouts on my abs. Last night's workout nearly did me in. I am seeing results so the pain is definitely worth it.

I've been thinking a lot about food lately. It's not what you think – I'm not obsessing about cheese burgers and onion rings. I'm thinking about healthy foods – vegetables in particular. I read recently the belief that vegetables are most nutritious eaten raw may not be true. The article said cooked carrots supply more antioxidants and have increased beta carotene level. But there's always a flipside – cooking carrots reduces their vitamin C. Some veggies just have to be cooked – I wouldn't eat asparagus raw – some might, but not me!

We should eat at least 5-7 servings of fresh vegetables every day. Yellow-orange vegetables are rich in beta carotene while dark green vegetables are rich in minerals and antioxidants. One of the best veggies is sweet potatoes. Among root vegetables, sweet potatoes offer the lowest glycemic index rating. That's because the sweet potato digests slowly, causing a gradual rise in blood sugar so you feel satisfied longer. And, hey, their sweet – you don't need to add anything to them – just bake them and eat them!

Next week I'll be more invigorating and talk about something more exciting than vegetables. Until then, here's a thought for you:

"Winning isn't everything, but wanting to win is." ~ Vince Lombardi

Ryan

Where has the time gone? This is all going too fast. Am I going to make my goals? Am I going to be happy with all the results? You may be saying why is Ryan being so negative? Let's put it down to me being sick for the last week and you know how negative thoughts can creep in when you aren't feeling well. In spite of my doubts, I know I am not in this alone. I have the support and encouragement of my family and friends and all of you.

Feelings of doubt are common when we are trying something new or working hard to reach a goal. It's what we do during these times of doubt that sets achievers apart. So for all of you out there who might be feeling some doubt or concern about achieving your goals, you are not doing this alone, we have each other. When you hit that moment of doubt, and find yourself asking these questions, DON'T GIVE UP! DON'T GIVE UP! NEVER GIVE UP!

The important things in our lives are worth fighting for. Nothing of great importance or joy ever comes easily. And part of the journey IS the fight. The fight I refer to could be anything thing in our lives that we are working hard to achieve. It might be quitting smoking, or rebuilding a relationship, or struggling with a health issue. In my case, it is getting the Ultimate 6-Pack. Being sick and away from the gym really got me down. But I know it was just one of life's hiccups and it's time to move on. Moving forward is the most important thing we can do when we face adversity. Don't look back, just look forward. It does not matter where we have been; what's more important is where we are going.

On a bit better note, I am feeling better and am back at the gym. I used to really like my trainer Max the Enforcer, now I'm not so sure! My work out consist of 45 min pure abs. But like they say, 'no pain no gain'. We are doing full work outs now…no more using the excuse that I'm healing. The only healing from here on in is going to be my muscles recovering from Max's workouts!

Well until next week - take care and keep up the fight.

"Don't count the days, make the days count." ~ Muhammad Ali

Ryan

Welcome to my Week 10 blog!

We're officially at the half-way point and I am incredibly pumped to work twice as hard for the second half of the challenge. I'm now able to workout at my full normal routine for the duration of the program. I'm still a little sore and have slight swelling, but it's not enough to slow down my workout schedule.

Last Sunday, Shelda and I were at the Nu Image booth at the Regina Women's Network trade show. We had a fantastic time chatting with people and handing out coupons for Nu Image and Gold's Gym.

As promised, I'm going to focus this blog on maintaining a healthy diet. First off, I'll stress the importance of eating six meals a day - the most important being breakfast. A good breakfast kick starts your metabolism and is a great beginning to a productive day. Six meals rather than the traditional three, balances your food intake out over the day reducing the "starving" feeling you can get if you go too long between meals.

It is also important to have a well balanced diet of whole grains, fruit & veggies, lean meat and low fat dairy products. The easiest food plan to follow is the Canada Food Guide. Remember to stay away from too much processed, pre-prepared foods. It's fine to have a little bit - you can't beat a bowl of tomato soup and a grilled cheese sandwich made on white bread with processed cheese on a cold winter day. Just don't eat it every day!

That leads to the next crucial thing to remember ... everything is fine in moderation. You can still have treats - you just have to watch the portions and frequency. That includes the liquid treats. I've often heard that one glass of red wine a day is full of antioxidants and stimulates the liver. And no, you can't save them up for a week and drink all seven on Saturday night!

Read labels. It takes me a lot longer to shop for groceries than it used to. I read more from the grocery shelves than I do from my bookshelves! Watch the labels. For instance, "light" on the olive oil bottle refers to the colour and flavour, not the fat content. Another good example is tuna - the generic brand may have less protein than a brand name version and look for tuna packed in water rather than oil.

There are many good resources on the internet to help make healthy food choices. And talk to your friends and family for recipe ideas.

Healthy meals might take a little longer to prepare and in some cases are a little more expensive to make. Shop around for the best prices on fresh produce and meat. There are some great organic and natural food stores to choose from here in Regina. Just think of the money you'll save down the line in health care if you choose to eat healthy foods today.

I found a great quote by an unknown author that sums up how I feel about life these days:

Losers quit when they're tired. Winners quit when they've won. And champions never quit.

Have a safe and happy Easter long weekend! (I sure hope Shelda bought me some Diet Cadbury Mini Eggs!) Ha Ha

Until next time ...

Ryan

Welcome to Week #9!

It is hard to believe all this time has gone by so fast. We are just about at the half way mark. It has been a pleasure to have you all follow me through all of this. Without you, all it would be much more difficult. So, thank you all!

This has been a very interesting week. I am still healing and I am working hard at the gym. Max the Enforcer and I are starting to target my muscles instead of doing an all over body workout. I started to work on my abs for the first time this past Friday and it went extremely well. I was really sore the next day! My muscles had forgotten how to work. We will be concentrating on the upper body and my abs.

I have been doing a lot of low impact cardio - I do a hard walk for 1 hour. You can see results with a good hard walk while you build up to a run. Hopefully as I heal, I will be running in no time.

I must say this has been a very interesting week for me with a lot of things have been happening to my body, from fat loss to massive change of diet to all the working out. I know it is going to be a hard road, but a very rewarding one. Any time we work hard for something in our lives, we appreciate it so much more and the rewards are so much sweeter.

Mark the Paparazzi took some pictures at Gold's Gym North. I am starting to enjoy getting used to having my picture taken. I feel like a star. We did some work out shots and some pictures of Max so you can see the Enforcer for yourselves.

I have had a lot of questions about all this whole process. What I would like to say to everyone struggling with maintaining a healthy diet and a fitness régime - keep going and don't give up. If you are on a diet to lose weight - give it time and don't give up. If you are working out to get in shape - give it your best and don't give up. And did I mention... Don't give up!

Here are some things that have helped me stick to my new lifestyle: Make short-term achievable goals - both with your eating habits and your physical activity. Break your week down into days or even hours. This will help you not get discouraged by looking so far into the future. It will make it so much easier for you.

You don't have to go to the lengths I did with this program to get results. But if you want some serious results, Nu Image will be more than happy to help you out.

All of this is mind over body. It's life changing. It's changing bad habits. It's choosing a healthy lifestyle. And now is the time to do it. Nike says JUST DO IT. You'll be glad you did; and likely happier and healthier than you've ever been.

Keep positive. Rome was not built in a day. You didn't put the weight on in a day and you will not lose the weight in a day. Try changing one unhealthy habit at a time. It's like the old saying: How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. If you try to do too much, it's too easy to get discouraged.

In the weeks to follow, I will be writing about healthy diet choices with a look at what we can all be doing for a healthier lifestyle. Stay tuned for more ideas on how we are going to change our bodies together.

"If you aren't going all the way, why go at all?" ~ Joe Namath

Regards;
Ryan

Hello and welcome back!

This is week #8 of the program and I am happy to report that the last lipo procedure is now complete. I am healing very nicely, and, yes, I am glad that they are both over. I will not get into too much detail about this procedure; Dr. Bastian, (or James, as he would like me to call him now) did as usual, a fine job on my flanks. And the paper underwear was just as attractive this second time around! I do have some bruising but that is to be expected. Soon I will be focused on getting some serious gym time!

On Friday, Max the Enforcer and I will be doing our first work-out since the lipo procedure on my flanks. Mark, my personal paparazzi, will be there to take work out pictures to be posted on the web site. I also have some more pictures of my first procedure as well as before and after pictures - please check them out. Wow! What a difference!

Max and I will be doing a more strict routine with my work-outs from now on. We will be isolating all the muscles to get the best work-out possible. I should be able to start working my abs in about a week or so. (I hope so anyway). I must say this has all been a challenge, but not impossible. It's all mind over matter and we can all do what we set our minds to do. Everything worth having is worth working for.

I used to think it would be hard to make all these special meals, but it is not. I try to make enough each time I cook for the next day as well. And, boy, that is a lot easier than I would have thought. It does not take anymore time to make two chicken breasts as it does four. I find I actually have more time. Who would have thought? It is all in the prep work. I guess I have always had the time, just didn't allocate it properly.

I must say it is nice having my daughter back at home with me. It's a good motivation to live with two slim, trim women. Who wants to be the only one in the house who is fat and out of shape?

The support I get from my daughter and Shelda has been a godsend. Shelda, I thank you so much for changing bandages, helping me get in and out of bed, and reminding me to take my meds.

The outcome from all this work is going to be so amazing. I just can't wait till my follow up in two weeks.

Nu Image and Gold's Gym have started a new promotion, using a post-card sized coupon, promoting our 6-Pack Challenge on the front of the card, and offering great savings from both companies on the back. Nu Image is offering $50 off treatments, and Gold's Gym is offering $100 off memberships or training. Both excellent deals for helping you get back into healthy shape. For all who are interested, I will be happy to forward these to you so you can receive these wonderful benefits. The offer is in effect until the end of June so don't delay - get yours now.

Until next week, don't stop living the dream - what the mind can believe it can also achieve.

"In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure." ~ Bill Cosby

Regards, Ryan

Hello everyone and welcome back for Week #7.

What do I have to say this week? I WANT A CHEESE BURGER AND FRIES! We'll chat about eating in a minute, but let's start off with my next procedure.

I have my last lipo procedure on Thursday March 11th at 12:30. Dr Bastian will be doing my flanks. With the support of Shelda, Cindy, Nurse Kathy and Dr Bastian, I can say for certain, I am not a bit worried. I know that I am in good hands (he is the best, you know!). Are you ready for the human sprinkler again, Hun? I hope I am as spoiled as last time.

I have been working with Max my trainer at Gold's Gym North. He'll now be known as "Max the Enforcer". For about a week and a half now, I have concentrated on an upper body work-out every day, being careful to avoid my abs and mid-section until I am completely healed.

The work-outs consist of chest, biceps, triceps, and shoulders, back and, of course, lats. We have been doing three sets of each exercise with 10 to 12 reps. After I'm healed from my two lipo procedures, we will start to isolate each muscle by doing chest and triceps, then back and biceps. Shoulders will have a dedicated day of their own, as there are many muscles in the shoulders to work out, as the same with my back.

I can't run yet as the 'up & down' motion is not good while I'm healing. I have been doing a fast-paced walk with a 4.0 incline on the treadmill. I do this for an hour, then train with Max the Enforcer for 45 minutes of weights. I can't lie, it has been tough. But, I have broken my cardio work-out time down to 10 minute intervals. By doing this, I am not looking at the hour, but 10 minutes at a time. And, boy, does it make a difference!

Well, I guess I should talk a bit about my diet. This really is the toughest area for me. I have never really had good eating habits. I didn't have to. Until my mid-thirties, I could eat or drink what I wanted, when I wanted, and not gain a pound. What happened to that metabolism?!

The biggest problem I face is breakfast. I have never been a breakfast eater. A couple of cups of coffee is a good breakfast, right? I guess not. I have learned that this is a big mistake if you want to lose weight or have a healthy lifestyle. If you do not eat within at least 30 minutes of waking up, your metabolism does not work properly throughout the day. So to quote my mother "Eat your breakfast - it's the most important meal of the day!" It's when your metabolism will work its hardest.

I eat every three hours per day, or six times a day. There are at least three protein shakes as well as other high protein foods like chicken or fish, and not forgetting egg whites plus lots of green vegetables (the best being broccoli) as well as fruit. I can have some "good" fat foods like almonds (in moderation; 18 almonds twice daily). I eat them plain, but I hear they're really good if you toast them. I do not have wheat or milk products and I have to say, I miss cheese. It really is a life style change and a good one. I FEEL GREAT!

For any of you who pack a lunch for work, you know you have to be creative to come up with some appetizing meals to keep you from grabbing junk food.

I hope I've answered some of the questions I've received over the past few days and by sharing what I've learned so far, hopefully it has helped someone out there. If anyone has a specific question, please e-mail me at ryan@nuimage.ca and I will be happy to pass on the exceptional information I am learning from my trainer and nutritionist.

Thanks for your inspirational words and support - I appreciate each one. To my love Shelda, thank you for all your work and understanding you have given me at home with my diet and my care. Without this, I would be lost. And to Cindy, you have helped so much with meal plans and healthy food choices - your partnership will always be cherished.

For all of you, please don't give up on what's important in your life. If it takes a fight and some pain, then the gain is so much more rewarding. I am going to leave you with some words of wisdom - not mine, but borrowed from someone wiser than me:

"Champions aren't made in the gyms. Champions are made from something they have deep inside them - a desire, a dream, a vision." - Mohammed Ali

Until next week, take care and again don't stop living your dream.

Ryan (Abs) Anderson

Hello and welcome back to my blog for week 6!

I have spent most of my time in healing mode. The highlight of my week is that I am no longer leaking! Yes, no longer am I a human sprinkler from the lipo procedure. I am feeling good and I am healing nicely. I will be going to Nu Image for my one week follow-up appointment and am eager to see what Dr. Bastian has to say about my progress. I will also be receiving my meds for my next procedure on my flanks, on Thursday March 11th.

This week, I went to the gym where my trainer Max put me through the motions as to determine my fitness level. My fitness level was so low that I'm not sure he could even find a level! I enjoyed getting back to working out. I had forgotten how much I loved it, but I must say that my muscles have certainly forgot all about working out (Boy, was I sore!) My muscles are not used to the movement, so it's a natural reaction to be sore, and I know in time all this will fade and my muscles will adapt quickly to my new routine.

Once I have healed enough, I will slowly begin my cardio to increase my metabolism and burn calories. I know that cardio is my weak point, and I'll have to give it 110 percent. I've learned that the key to weight loss starts with cardio, combined with a healthy eating plan, and then the weights will build lean muscle mass, which gives you that great shape and definition. Did you know that working out with weights also helps with flexibility, strengthens your "core" (back & stomach) support system, and improves your bone density? So it's all good!

Thank you to everyone for joining me on this journey and for taking the time to read my blog. All the comments and supportive e-mails are greatly appreciated.

There are new medical pictures in the gallery so check them out. Check out Cindy's site too. She says that she feels like a million bucks - she looks like it too!

Well, until next week, take care and don't stop living the dream.

Ryan (Abs) Anderson

Hello and welcome to my 5th blog! Now that I am home from my vacation, I have much more news to share with you.

On Tuesday, I met with my trainer/nutritionist, Max, at Gold's Gym north. It was a pleasure to meet him and get a tour of the gym. If you have never been there, you should go check it out. It is an awesome facility with a program for everyone at any fitness level. We didn't do a whole lot that night, but went over the plan of action for my body transformation. It will be awesome. We'll meet again on Monday to go over my diet and training regime. And we'll meet three times a week until the end of the 20-week challenge.

Wednesday was a bit of a scary day, as I was going to have my first lipo procedure done. I was really nervous with a tsunami of emotions. And then, I received a phone call from Cindy. She called to wish me luck and to say that there was nothing to worry about. We spoke for about an hour, and, boy, did she make me feel better! She explained everything that would happen and what to expect. Now my tsunami of emotions was just a splash. Thank you so much Cindy!

I arrived at Nu Image at about 12:15. I was surprised to see Mark, Cindy's husband and our photographer. He was there to take some pictures of the procedure, which will be on our web page shortly. Shelda came with me as I needed a driver there to ensure my safety - as you would have with any medical procedure. And it was great to have the moral support! Thanks Hun!

Dr. Bastian, P.L and Laurie were there to welcome us. It is so nice to be able to go through a scary time with such compassionate and caring people like the team at Nu Image. They made me feel so comfortable. In no time, I was at ease with what I would soon be going through. My nurse Kathy then got me, so I could change for the procedure. I was shocked to see such designer garments - paper underwear! I think I need to buy some of those!

It was great that Shelda was able to come in and keep me company as Dr. Bastian took more pictures. And, yes, Mark the paparazzi was taking pictures as well. After the pictures, we went to the operating room to get prepped and to let the games begin. During all of this, Mark and Shelda were taking pictures and video - I kind of felt like a movie star!

Ok, now it begins! Dr. Bastian started by making smiley faces with a marker so he knew where to take the fat out. And having the fat out will make me smile! Shelda was able to stay with me for about 30 minutes or so while the drugs set in. I was thankful to have her there - she made me feel better.

The whole procedure took about three hours. During the entire time, Dr. Bastian and the nurses made me feel as comfortable as possible. We had a great talk through it all. I am so blessed to have had such a great doctor taking care of me. I must say the whole process was not what I expected at all and was really easy to go through.

If you're thinking of having some liposuction done and are nervous, don't worry. It is done in such a relaxed and worry-free setting. Just pick your favourite music (make sure you pick the same kind of music Laurie likes because her office speakers are set to the same station!) The procedure was nothing to worry about. The only bad thing is you are a human sprinkler for a couple of days while the fluid drains. I was lucky to have Shelda at home with me to help change the dressings and reassure me that I was not going to completely leak out!

I am now ready for my second procedure. And I am not the least bit worried about that one. I will be again in capable hands with Dr. Bastian and his team.

Sincerely,

Ryan

Hello everyone and it's great to be back in Canada after my vacation in the Dominican Republic. There's nothing like visiting abroad to realize how fortunate we are to live in Canada.

This will be a short message as I'm overwhelmed with work and the responsibilities of returning home.

As you know, I didn't stick to the program while I was away. There was too much food and too many 1,000 calorie cocktails for me to resist. Now that I'm back, I'm more than ready to throw myself 100% into the program.

I'm excited that my 19 year old daughter will be coming to live with me to attend school here in Regina. Her endless energy and enthusiasm will boost my morale and keep me in the game. We're very much alike so living together may lead to a few arguments that might help burn off some calories!

I meet with my trainer Max this week. Given my lack of willpower during my vacation, I'm a little embarrassed to see him. In addition to the great support I'm getting from the Nu Image team, the accountability factor is a tremendous way to stay on track.

I have my first liposuction procedure next Wednesday. I'm excited to see the results... but just between you and me, I'm a little scared. I feel a whole lot better now that I've read Cindy's description of the procedure. If sweet little Cindy can handle it, big tough me should be fine...right? I'm thankful to be in the hands of Dr. Bastian, whose competency will ensure success. You'll hear more about this in my next blog.

That's all for now... stay tuned for more.

Ryan

Hello again from sunny Dominican Republic!

I must start by apologizing for last weeks blog! Sadly it took me a good part of a day to try and send back to Canada, so I hope this one is a tad more exciting. I have a new e-mail account as a result of all this. I will now be able to send a few pictures from our holiday. I am so glad I will not be needing a translator to go from English to Spanish back to English. I think week two of my blog was harder for me to complete and send than it will be at the gym with my new trainer Max. HA HA.

Monday;

My girlfriend Shelda and our two friends Clint and Kerry, spent half the day in Puerto Plata. We did some shopping and some sight seeing. It is a poor country but very beautiful people. It was 82 degrees partly cloudy with a few rain showers and yet still a beautiful day. A bad day in the Dominican is far better then a good day at work.

Tuesday;

Today was a day to hit the beach again and soak up the sunshine and have some cocktails. Shelda is making me drink lots of water and is getting me ready for my diet mode when we get home.

I went out kayaking in the ocean, what a blast! I took some time to just look around at the scenery and that is when reality set in. I started to think all the glitz and glamour of winning the contest is going to soon be over and all the hard work will begin. I am starting to get worried about my first Lipo procedure! I know I am in the most capable hands at Nuimage, but still very nervous. OK! a large wave just hit me! now I am out of my day dreaming. Now the only thing that concerns me is, can I paddle back! boy did I drift. ha-ha.

Wednesday;

Shelda and I spent the day again soaking up the sun. We are doing a lot of walking, it has been great. My warden, sorry Hun! is really making me drink lots of water and also eat better, vacation or not. I am not sure who will be tougher on me Shelda or my trainer/nutritionist. I do know she is my biggest supporter and fan.

I am feeling a little guilty that I am on the beach soaking up the sun and Cindy is at home doing all the work. When I get home I will have to work twice as hard to catch up.

Well rain again today the Dominicans call it liquid sun lol. I guess this a good time to finish week three of my blog and try to send home. I must say these last two blog have been a challenge. All I have been doing is sitting on the beach, with not a whole lot to say. Oh yes there is! how cold is it there? OK no more rubbing it in.

I have enclosed a few pictures from my vacation hope you like them.(See Gallery)

Well adios everyone. Take care and I will see you all in a week or so.

All the best.

Ryan

Hola from the Dominican Republic!

Well, I am sending Week #2 of my blog from the sunny beach. I am going to keep this short due to the fact that internet connection is really bad and takes forever to send anything.

I found out the name of my trainer/nutritionist, his name is Max. I will be meeting with him at Gold's Gym North as soon as I get back, followed by my first lipo procedure on February 24th.

We are enjoying our vacation with great pleasure. As the song says, "I have my toes in the water, butt in the sand, not a worry in the world, a cold beer in my hand, life is good today".

I don't want to rub it in, but I will! It is so hot that I am shedding the pounds off, but gaining them back again at supper. So till then, I will be enjoying life, food and 1000-calorie cocktails.

I hope my co-winner Cindy is doing well with her program. Please follow her blog as she will have the first procedure done and will be able to give you the full scoop before I can. I wish her all the best. Cindy, I am bringing you back a tan, per your request.

I thank you everyone for following both Cindy and I, and look forward to the continued support. For all those who have sent e-mails of encouragement, thank you. I have never had such wonderful things said since the billboards and blogs were launched.

I will end with another quote: "If you have no passion in your life, have you really lived?" What I am trying to say is, like the passion I have for this contest...if you have passion, you will enjoy life to the fullest.

Regards

Ryan

Hello everyone and welcome to my blog! I'm Ryan Anderson and I am one of the 2010 six-pack challenge winners, along with Cindy Greschner. Congratulations to Cindy for being chosen.

For me, it is truly a blessing to win this contest. I remember seeing last year's winner and thought how awesome he looked after the program. I knew I just had to enter this contest. I wanted to get back the body that I had lost over the last few years. With the help of Nu Image, I know I can.

I was so nervous in my final interview, but the Nu Image team was so incredibly supportive. They made me feel like family not just a client. It seemed like an eternity waiting for that phone call to come to announce the winners. Finally at 7 p.m. on announcement day, my phone rang. I had some friends over waiting to hear the results. They were hysterical when they knew I had won. I was speechless. I thought I can finally get my body back to where I would feel proud again. Now with Nu Image I will have that body. I think this is one of the best opportunities I have had to get back into shape.

My first medical appointment at Nu Image was quite an experience. P.L. is a fantastic combination of nurse and psychologist. She took pictures as well as weighed and measured me. Seeing pictures of yourself with no shirt is humbling. It's one thing to look in the mirror - it's another to see pictures. The camera adds ten pounds, right? I wondered how I had let myself get to this stage.

My next appointment was with Dr. Bastian to go over all the consent forms and to talk about what to expect during the lipo-suction procedures and discuss the possible risks. Like any medical procedure, there are risks, but I feel very confident about having the procedure done by such a competent and compassionate doctor. I went for some routine lab work that was pretty straight forward. You know the ones - roll up your sleeve and make a fist, and then off you go to fill the cup.

I met with Laurie, the Marketing Goddess, to finalize all the paperwork - agreements, authorizations, etc. Don't you just love those marketing folks - where do they get all that enthusiasm?

I'm excited and a little nervous about the first lipo-suction procedure on February 24th.The next one will be on March the 11th.

This past Friday we had the photo shoot for the billboards and I was not sure what to expect. It turned out to be one of the most fun things I have ever done. Cindy's husband, Mark the photographer, was great. Mark made us feel very comfortable so it turned out to be a great experience. There were all sort of different poses and clothing. It was truly a blast.

I saw the proof for the billboards. It was a little shocking to see myself in a small photo. Now all of Regina is going to see me and my belly on huge billboards. What was I thinking? What are my kids going to say? My buddies are going to razz me. But only until they see the "after" billboards and then who will be teasing who? If that isn't motivation for me to succeed, nothing is!

Our blogs will be once a week and I encourage everyone to follow. There will be helpful ideas on how you all can achieve a six pack of your own. For all the women out there, I encourage you to check out Cindy's blog to get tips from a female point of view. I invite all our family and friends to take this journey with us and together we can all be winners.

Thanks again to all family and friends who gave me such support to go though to this point and I look forward to your being with me throughout this awesome experience. To Dr. Bastian, PL and Laurie - a million thanks for this opportunity!

I will be going on vacation to the Dominican Republic for two weeks; however, I will try to send my blog from there. Until then, take care everyone and thank you for joining me on this journey to a new me.

Remember what the mind can believe, it can also achieve.

Regards, Ryan Anderson