2011 was an exciting year for my training. This was the year of CrossFit! I really had so much fun doing CrossFit. It made me see what "fitness" is really about-that it's so much more than just looking good. It opened up my eyes to the world outside of "bodybuilding" by showing me how much more is out there...I will forever be thankful for that. :)
It was exciting to learn so many new things to add to my training-kettlebells, double unders, handstand pushups, deadlifts, front squats, Olympic lifts, push presses, rope climbs, muscle ups. I did none of these things before CrossFit.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3aJcH3qn58
It was good for me to have a change of pace from the same old things I had been doing for years.I was challenged in ways I've never been before, but I loved it! I will be sure to incorporate all of the new things I've learned into my workout program for the rest of my life, if I'm able.
Some of the things I want to focus on this year is to stay consistent with my stretching, foam rolling, and mobility. I never realized the importance of those things until now. They are JUST as important as lifting heavy and getting strong. I would like to start maybe doing a little yoga in addition to my strength training....now that would definitely be something out of my comfort zone!
Happy New Year everyone! Let this be your best year yet! Good luck in all your fitness goals!
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
Habits, not Resolutions
"Perhaps the biggest resolution at New Year’s is to get fit — start exercising, start eating right, and all that jazz.
But resolutions never last. As you might already know, I’m not a fan of resolutions.
Instead of creating a list of resolutions this year, create a new habit. Habits last, and they lead to long-term fitness (and more). They require more patience, but they are worth the wait."
- Leo Babauta
I agree! I've never been a fan of New Year's resolutions, because guess what? They don't last. I think creating "habits" is a MUCH better idea.
If you need a new year to start on a goal, to me that means you're not going to stick with it. Because if you were really committed to making a change, you wouldn't need a "new year" to do it. You would start whenever, RIGHT away!
A new year won't do anything special for you. It's just another day; another month. Most people's resolutions are probably the same ones they had last year...and the year before that! How come you didn't stick to it LAST January, huh?
But resolutions never last. As you might already know, I’m not a fan of resolutions.
Instead of creating a list of resolutions this year, create a new habit. Habits last, and they lead to long-term fitness (and more). They require more patience, but they are worth the wait."
- Leo Babauta
I agree! I've never been a fan of New Year's resolutions, because guess what? They don't last. I think creating "habits" is a MUCH better idea.
If you need a new year to start on a goal, to me that means you're not going to stick with it. Because if you were really committed to making a change, you wouldn't need a "new year" to do it. You would start whenever, RIGHT away!
A new year won't do anything special for you. It's just another day; another month. Most people's resolutions are probably the same ones they had last year...and the year before that! How come you didn't stick to it LAST January, huh?
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Get Off the Elliptical
With the New Year quickly approaching, many women will be joining a gym next week to "get back in shape", or to start a fitness program for the first time ever.
I know that the gym can be intimidating. With all the guys hogging the free weights section, no wonder most women just jump on the elliptical for 30 minutes-it's the easiest option! But ladies- don't let your fear of the weight room stop you from finding out just what strength training can do for you.
Have you ever seen a fit, muscular woman on the elliptical at the gym? I can't say that I've seen many, and I've worked and been to lots of gyms.
What I have noticed is that all the women doing their endless cardio on the ellipticals or treadmills are either skinny fat, or just plain fat... or just really skinny.
It's very rare that you will find a toned and fit, athletic looking woman on the elliptical. Those are the women you see in the weight room. Hmmm...what does that tell you?
You see, doing tons and tons of cardio makes you smaller but flabbier. Weight training along with a healthy diet and a little cardio makes you smaller and firmer.
This year, why not step out of your comfort zone? You do want the body of your dreams, right? Well, this is the first step towards that journey. Doing hours and hours of cardio will get you nothing but a smaller version of your flabby self. Sounds harsh, but it's true. I know it will be scary at first, but the only way to conquer fear is to face it head on.
One thing that will help is to always go into the gym with a plan. Don't go in and just wander aimlessly from exercise to exercise, from this machine to that machine, like I see so many women do. This not only makes you look clueless, but it also is not the best way to get results. If you go in with a plan, however, you'll be more confident and your workouts will be more effective.
Know what exercises you're going to do ahead of time, and it's always a good idea to keep a workout log and track your weights and reps. That way, you can improve over time by increasing your weights progressively.
So when you step into the gym for the first time next year, PLEASE walk right on by that elliptical! Go in with a plan, and then walk boldy over to the free weights. So what if it's all guys? So what if they all stare at you? Pick up those weights with confidence and show those guys that girls can lift, too. :)
I know that the gym can be intimidating. With all the guys hogging the free weights section, no wonder most women just jump on the elliptical for 30 minutes-it's the easiest option! But ladies- don't let your fear of the weight room stop you from finding out just what strength training can do for you.
Have you ever seen a fit, muscular woman on the elliptical at the gym? I can't say that I've seen many, and I've worked and been to lots of gyms.
What I have noticed is that all the women doing their endless cardio on the ellipticals or treadmills are either skinny fat, or just plain fat... or just really skinny. It's very rare that you will find a toned and fit, athletic looking woman on the elliptical. Those are the women you see in the weight room. Hmmm...what does that tell you?
You see, doing tons and tons of cardio makes you smaller but flabbier. Weight training along with a healthy diet and a little cardio makes you smaller and firmer.
This year, why not step out of your comfort zone? You do want the body of your dreams, right? Well, this is the first step towards that journey. Doing hours and hours of cardio will get you nothing but a smaller version of your flabby self. Sounds harsh, but it's true. I know it will be scary at first, but the only way to conquer fear is to face it head on.
One thing that will help is to always go into the gym with a plan. Don't go in and just wander aimlessly from exercise to exercise, from this machine to that machine, like I see so many women do. This not only makes you look clueless, but it also is not the best way to get results. If you go in with a plan, however, you'll be more confident and your workouts will be more effective.
Know what exercises you're going to do ahead of time, and it's always a good idea to keep a workout log and track your weights and reps. That way, you can improve over time by increasing your weights progressively.
So when you step into the gym for the first time next year, PLEASE walk right on by that elliptical! Go in with a plan, and then walk boldy over to the free weights. So what if it's all guys? So what if they all stare at you? Pick up those weights with confidence and show those guys that girls can lift, too. :)
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Just Babbling
Oh, I miss Christmas already. Sigh.The lights, the tree, the music....it's so sad that it's all over. Darn post-holiday blues! :( Now I'm just ready for summer to be here.
Welp, I "survived" the holidays without gaining a single pound. Not one measly pound. Not even after 2 days over the weekend of not so healthy eating and indulging in whatever the heck I wanted!
Goes to show that when you've got a lot of muscle, you train heavy and with intensity consistently, and you eat healthy at 40 out of 42 meals in a week..."falling off" your diet for a day or two does not have such a disastrous effect. Muscle is the ultimate fat burner!!
I'm going to have to get on a higher calorie diet plan since what I've been doing is not working. I thought that just adding carbs back in would make me gain some weight, but I need more I guess. Maybe adding in that second cheat meal midweek will help-I hope!!! I gotta get get fat, dang it! ;)
Check out my new tank that Santa brought for Christmas. I love, love, love it and can't wait to wear it to the gym tomorrow for deadlift day! :)
Welp, I "survived" the holidays without gaining a single pound. Not one measly pound. Not even after 2 days over the weekend of not so healthy eating and indulging in whatever the heck I wanted!
Goes to show that when you've got a lot of muscle, you train heavy and with intensity consistently, and you eat healthy at 40 out of 42 meals in a week..."falling off" your diet for a day or two does not have such a disastrous effect. Muscle is the ultimate fat burner!!
I'm going to have to get on a higher calorie diet plan since what I've been doing is not working. I thought that just adding carbs back in would make me gain some weight, but I need more I guess. Maybe adding in that second cheat meal midweek will help-I hope!!! I gotta get get fat, dang it! ;)
Check out my new tank that Santa brought for Christmas. I love, love, love it and can't wait to wear it to the gym tomorrow for deadlift day! :)
"You Must Never Eat"
Just another rant. ;)
I find it amusing when people say things to me like, "You must never eat!" It's actually a comment I get quite frequently, and it's pretty annoying. Really, I don't eat? Please. If I didn't eat, I'd look like a skeleton-skin and bones. I'd be anorexic. I would NOT have muscle.
People's ignorance about nutrition amazes me sometimes. Or maybe people just say things like that to make themselves feel better. By telling themselves the reason I look the way I do is because I don't eat, it justifies to themselves why they don't look the way they want to...because they love to eat, right? They don't want to starve themselves.
Well, let me tell you one thing-I am definitely NOT starving. People have no idea just how MUCH I have to eat to look the way I do. And the thing is, if you're eating the right things you CAN eat a lot, because healthy food has a lot less calories than the junk most people eat.
NOT eating does not make you lean and defined. It makes you skinny and bony. Not quite the look I'm going for.
I find it amusing when people say things to me like, "You must never eat!" It's actually a comment I get quite frequently, and it's pretty annoying. Really, I don't eat? Please. If I didn't eat, I'd look like a skeleton-skin and bones. I'd be anorexic. I would NOT have muscle.
People's ignorance about nutrition amazes me sometimes. Or maybe people just say things like that to make themselves feel better. By telling themselves the reason I look the way I do is because I don't eat, it justifies to themselves why they don't look the way they want to...because they love to eat, right? They don't want to starve themselves.
Well, let me tell you one thing-I am definitely NOT starving. People have no idea just how MUCH I have to eat to look the way I do. And the thing is, if you're eating the right things you CAN eat a lot, because healthy food has a lot less calories than the junk most people eat.
NOT eating does not make you lean and defined. It makes you skinny and bony. Not quite the look I'm going for.
Monday, December 26, 2011
Christmas is Over.
I hope everyone had a great Christmas!
I'm kind of sad that it's over...I'm always so excited for it, then it comes, and I'm left feeling a little disappointed and sad. Oh well. Overall, it was a good Christmas-I'm thankful that I at least got to see my brother and sister.
Sooo of course I ate like crazy over the weekend. I had ham, biscuits, potato salad, cheese dip, and lots of desserts! Yummmmyyyy. I can't wait to see what the scale says today! I'm probably one of the only people hoping my weight is up! ;)
Here are some pics with the family:
I'm kind of sad that it's over...I'm always so excited for it, then it comes, and I'm left feeling a little disappointed and sad. Oh well. Overall, it was a good Christmas-I'm thankful that I at least got to see my brother and sister.
Sooo of course I ate like crazy over the weekend. I had ham, biscuits, potato salad, cheese dip, and lots of desserts! Yummmmyyyy. I can't wait to see what the scale says today! I'm probably one of the only people hoping my weight is up! ;)
Here are some pics with the family:
Saturday, December 24, 2011
I Believe
I believe in Jesus Christ and in the beauty of the gospel begun in Bethlehem.
I believe in the one whose spirit glorified a little town; and whose spirit still brings music to persons all over the world, in towns both large and small.
I believe in the one for whom the crowded inn could find no room, and I confess that my heart still sometimes wants to exclude Christ from my life today.
I believe in the one who the rulers of the earth ignored and the proud could never understand; whose life was among common people, whose welcome came from persons of hungry hearts.
I believe in the one who proclaimed the love of God to be invincible:
I believe in the one whose cradle was a mother's arms, whose modest home in Nazareth had love for its only wealth, who looked at persons and made them see what God's love saw in them, who by love brought sinners back to purity, and lifted human weakness up to meet the strength of God.
I confess my ever-lasting need of God: The need of forgiveness for our selfishness and greed, the need of new life for empty souls, the need of love for hearts grown cold.
I believe in God who gives us the best of himself. I believe in Jesus, the son of the living God, born in Bethlehem this night, for me and for the world.
-Walter Russell Bowie
Friday, December 23, 2011
Progress
I'm in a much better mood today! Sorry to be such a downer lately... But the normal Lindsay is back! :)
Sooo....I thought I'd give an update on how the whole gaining weight thing is going. Well, so far-not so good! It's been 3 weeks, and my weight has been hovering between 120-121. I was 118 a couple of months ago....so I guess that's improvement since then. If I could gain just 2 more measly pounds, I'd be happy!!!! Maybe I just have to give it a little more time.
I still feel really lean(actually a little leaner, what?!), and I can still see some abs....which probably means I need to step it up. I gotta eat even more. After the holidays, I'm going to add in a second cheat meal mid-week. I may also have to add in more carbs...maybe add them to dinner, since right now I still just do protein and broccoli or cauliflower at dinner.
A slight part of me is still scared to gain fat.... I have to get over that fear if I want to grow. I know with my fast metabolism and my training that it won't be hard to lose, especially if I build a little more muscle along with the fat. Then I'll worry about getting shredded later!
Time for a bathroom photoshoot:
Sooo....I thought I'd give an update on how the whole gaining weight thing is going. Well, so far-not so good! It's been 3 weeks, and my weight has been hovering between 120-121. I was 118 a couple of months ago....so I guess that's improvement since then. If I could gain just 2 more measly pounds, I'd be happy!!!! Maybe I just have to give it a little more time.
I still feel really lean(actually a little leaner, what?!), and I can still see some abs....which probably means I need to step it up. I gotta eat even more. After the holidays, I'm going to add in a second cheat meal mid-week. I may also have to add in more carbs...maybe add them to dinner, since right now I still just do protein and broccoli or cauliflower at dinner.
A slight part of me is still scared to gain fat.... I have to get over that fear if I want to grow. I know with my fast metabolism and my training that it won't be hard to lose, especially if I build a little more muscle along with the fat. Then I'll worry about getting shredded later!
Time for a bathroom photoshoot:
Thursday, December 22, 2011
In a Mood
Maybe I'm just in a bad mood today, but I have to admit that sometimes I get so tired of "fitness".....if that makes sense. Does anyone else ever get that way? It's very rare for me, but it happens, and today is one of those days.
I get tired of reading fitness blogs and people I follow on facebook...everyone all having their own opinions, what's good for you, what's not... I just get sick of hearing it sometimes.
I don't eat perfect, never will. I don't eat all organic, I don't eat vegetables with every meal, I eat grains...and I don't really care. All I know is I don't eat junk food, sweets, fast foods, or a lot of processed foods on a regular basis. I feel good, I look good, and I do the best I can to be healthy.
And, it's Christmas time, so if I wanna have a cookie or a treat or two(or five) or a big non-healthy Christmas meal, I'm going to...and it's okay...and I won't get fat or ruin my physique...or die.
Sorry to not be motivating and encouraging today-I'm human....I didn't get much sleep last night and it's rainy out, so maybe that's why I'm not in the best of moods. We all have our days!
And I'm already getting sad that Christmas is almost over! I always get the post holiday blues... :( Boo hoo.
I get tired of reading fitness blogs and people I follow on facebook...everyone all having their own opinions, what's good for you, what's not... I just get sick of hearing it sometimes.
I don't eat perfect, never will. I don't eat all organic, I don't eat vegetables with every meal, I eat grains...and I don't really care. All I know is I don't eat junk food, sweets, fast foods, or a lot of processed foods on a regular basis. I feel good, I look good, and I do the best I can to be healthy.
And, it's Christmas time, so if I wanna have a cookie or a treat or two(or five) or a big non-healthy Christmas meal, I'm going to...and it's okay...and I won't get fat or ruin my physique...or die.
Sorry to not be motivating and encouraging today-I'm human....I didn't get much sleep last night and it's rainy out, so maybe that's why I'm not in the best of moods. We all have our days!
And I'm already getting sad that Christmas is almost over! I always get the post holiday blues... :( Boo hoo.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
WIAW
9:00 Chocolate pb protein oats, coffee
11:30 PWO-Orange creamsicle shake(this is sooooo delicious!)-vanilla whey, almond milk, gatorade powder
1:30 Qdoba-naked burrito w/ no rice, pinto beans, double chicken, salsa and cheese
4:00 Apple, crockpot chicken, 1 tbsp almond butter
7:00 3 whole eggs, 1 cup broccoli, cupcake
10:00 2 tbsp peanut butter, protein shake
Yes, you read that right-I had a cupcake :)
11:30 PWO-Orange creamsicle shake(this is sooooo delicious!)-vanilla whey, almond milk, gatorade powder
1:30 Qdoba-naked burrito w/ no rice, pinto beans, double chicken, salsa and cheese
4:00 Apple, crockpot chicken, 1 tbsp almond butter
7:00 3 whole eggs, 1 cup broccoli, cupcake
10:00 2 tbsp peanut butter, protein shake
Yes, you read that right-I had a cupcake :)
Believe
So I was feeling down on myself the past few days about how I look....and then today I just thought to myself, "You need to take your own advice!"
I'm always saying to believe in yourself. That is the first step towards getting the body you want, or anything in life-you have to truly BELIEVE that you can achieve it. If you don't, you'll never get it.
So my pity party is over. No more doubting myself. If I'm negative and I think that I can't grow, then I won't. This is a journey that I'm on. I have come a long way, but it's far from over. I will constantly strive to be better, no matter what it takes.
I have a vision of how I want to look, and I won't stop until I get there.
I'm always saying to believe in yourself. That is the first step towards getting the body you want, or anything in life-you have to truly BELIEVE that you can achieve it. If you don't, you'll never get it.
So my pity party is over. No more doubting myself. If I'm negative and I think that I can't grow, then I won't. This is a journey that I'm on. I have come a long way, but it's far from over. I will constantly strive to be better, no matter what it takes.
I have a vision of how I want to look, and I won't stop until I get there.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Birthday :)
I celebrated my 27th birthday over the weekend! I had a few slices of this:
Cookie cakes have always been my fave! My husband got me the perfect card:
So is everyone finished with their Christmas shopping? If not- you are crazy. You have all year! :) Mine was done a long time ago. I'm actually kind of sad that Christmas is only a few days away. I wish it could last longer! And it looks like no snow is in the forecast. Too bad. :(
Skinny/Muscles
Just to show the difference between being flexed and not flexed.
On the left, I look like a skinny twig who's never lifted a weight a day in her life. Ga-ROSS. On the left, flexed obviously, I look like I have a decent amount of muscle. My goal is to look like I have a lot of muscle when I'm relaxed!
On the left, I look like a skinny twig who's never lifted a weight a day in her life. Ga-ROSS. On the left, flexed obviously, I look like I have a decent amount of muscle. My goal is to look like I have a lot of muscle when I'm relaxed!
You know you love my socks. ;)
Monday, December 19, 2011
Skinny Fat?
I'm usually the positive and uplifting one...but... last night I had a little pity party for myself. Actually, I had a slight meltdown. Okay, so I know it was partly due to the fact that I am a little extra emotional right now with that lovely time of the month being right around the corner...but still.
Well, it all started with me having my husband take some progress pictures of me. Now, usually when I take pictures like that I will flex and pose so that I make myself look better than I actually do. ;) But this time I wanted some pictures of me just standing there relaxed in my shorts and sports bra. Talk about unflattering. Gross.
So I was looking through the pictures last night and was just completely disgusted with how I looked. I went to Matt and said, "I'm skinny fat!" (I know I have muscle, but looking skinny fat is my worst fear-being soft and scrawny with no muscle.)Of course, he laughed, and didn't realize that I was completely serious.
So then my mind was flooded with all kinds of negative thoughts. I work so hard just to look like I don't have any muscle....I hate my proportions-wide shoulders and lats, thick waist, no hips, chicken legs....I look like an upside down triangle. I hate it....What if I just can't get any bigger? I've reached my genetic limit? This is all I'll ever have? This is as good as it will get? Looking like a fitness model is just not in my cards. I don't have the body type. I'll always be puny. My legs will never grow. I look stupid. I genuinely felt all these things last night. Talk about being negative!!
I know I always say not to focus on your looks...and CrossFit brought me away from that. But when I stopped doing CrossFit, it all came back. The constant striving for perfection. Comparing myself to others, thinking I could never look like that. I'm not lean enough, I'm not big enough....it never ends...
So anyway, I just wanted to vent and be open here. Just know that everyone gets down on themselves at times. Even the person who everyone thinks is perfect and wants to look like... has insecurities.
Just for the record, I feel much better this morning! :)
Well, it all started with me having my husband take some progress pictures of me. Now, usually when I take pictures like that I will flex and pose so that I make myself look better than I actually do. ;) But this time I wanted some pictures of me just standing there relaxed in my shorts and sports bra. Talk about unflattering. Gross.
So I was looking through the pictures last night and was just completely disgusted with how I looked. I went to Matt and said, "I'm skinny fat!" (I know I have muscle, but looking skinny fat is my worst fear-being soft and scrawny with no muscle.)Of course, he laughed, and didn't realize that I was completely serious.
So then my mind was flooded with all kinds of negative thoughts. I work so hard just to look like I don't have any muscle....I hate my proportions-wide shoulders and lats, thick waist, no hips, chicken legs....I look like an upside down triangle. I hate it....What if I just can't get any bigger? I've reached my genetic limit? This is all I'll ever have? This is as good as it will get? Looking like a fitness model is just not in my cards. I don't have the body type. I'll always be puny. My legs will never grow. I look stupid. I genuinely felt all these things last night. Talk about being negative!!
I know I always say not to focus on your looks...and CrossFit brought me away from that. But when I stopped doing CrossFit, it all came back. The constant striving for perfection. Comparing myself to others, thinking I could never look like that. I'm not lean enough, I'm not big enough....it never ends...
So anyway, I just wanted to vent and be open here. Just know that everyone gets down on themselves at times. Even the person who everyone thinks is perfect and wants to look like... has insecurities.
Just for the record, I feel much better this morning! :)
Friday, December 16, 2011
Step It Up
"To get something you've never had, you have to do something you've never done."
-Craig BallantyneSo I've had heard people say things like, "I just can't lose weight", and,"I've tried everything", or, "I try to watch what I eat, but I'm just not getting results"!
It's like, really? You've tried everything? Yeah...probably NOT. And you watch what you eat? What does that even mean? You can't lose weight? Um, yes you can.
Have you ever really gotten your nutrition under control? Have you ever really pushed yourself in your workouts? Have you ever lifted heavy weights? Have you been consistent?
Upon closer inspection, I find that most people have only done the things that they WANT to do to lose weight. I find that when I take a look at what they're eating, it's not that great, even though they would say they "eat good". I find that they haven't been doing the right things, or that they haven't been consistent, or that they have always given up too soon to ever see results.
If you've been struggling to lose weight or to lose body fat for years, then it's probably time to step it up. Doing Weight Watchers, counting calories, walking a few times a week, and lifting light weights at the gym may have worked in the beginning....but it's defininitely NOT going to take you to the next level.
*"Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results." -Albert Einstein*
So in this new year, I challenge you to STEP. IT. UP. If what you have been doing is no longer working, then it's time to take it to the next level!
If you've been going to the gym 2 or 3 days a week, then it's time to step it up and add in another day or two. I mean, you don't even need another day in the gym-you could just add in a bodyweight workout at home once or twice a week.
If you are a cardio junkie and haven't been lifting weights, then it's time to step it up and start lifting! Heavy.
If you've been doing the same routine for months and months now, then it's time to step it up and switch up your routine. Lift a little heavier, try some new exercises. Up the intensity by adding in some interval training or metabolic finishers at the end of your weight training workouts, instead of your traditional boring cardio.
If you've never gotten your nutrition under control, then it's time to step it up and start tracking what you eat and taking a good close look at what needs to be changed. Just counting calories may have worked in the beginning, but now it's time to start focusing on the quality of your food.
Need to cut back on the sugar, the carbs, the processed foods? It's time to step it up and make that change. More protein, more vegetables, more fat-LESS SUGAR.
STEP IT UP. Are you ready?
Thursday, December 15, 2011
Time to Change it Up
I'm slowly reverting back to my bodybuilding ways....
I've started taking creatine again. I'm also having gatorade powder in my post workout protein shake for the fast digesting sugar instead of fruit. I'm going to go through one more cycle of Wendler, and then I'm thinking about trying a more traditional upper/lower strength training plan.
I realize that I am just getting way to caught up in numbers and percentages with my training now. I just need to relax and remember that I'm doing this because I LOVE it and because it makes me feel good.
Lifting weights for me has always been fun, but lately I've started to get down on myself when I have a weak day, or if my weights aren't progressing on a certain lift, and it was never like that with my bodybuilding routine. I didn't freak out about setting PRs and all that all the time. It just makes me stress too much about my training, and that's just stupid.
Of course I want to get stronger, but if that's all it's about, for me, it takes the fun out of it. Especially when I seem to be getting weaker, which has been the case lately. I think as long as I'm pushing myself, lifting heavy, and doing what I enjoy, that's all that matters. That's how I got to where I am in the first place!
So after this next cycle of Wendler, I'll start something new and see what happens with a little less structured approach. And what I'll probably do is take a week or two every now and then to do some CrossFit WODs just for fun. Cuz that's what it's all about, right? Having fun?
I'm also going to start a training log blog, where I'll post my workouts, with exact weights and reps as well as videos from time to time. Should be fun! :)
I've started taking creatine again. I'm also having gatorade powder in my post workout protein shake for the fast digesting sugar instead of fruit. I'm going to go through one more cycle of Wendler, and then I'm thinking about trying a more traditional upper/lower strength training plan.
I realize that I am just getting way to caught up in numbers and percentages with my training now. I just need to relax and remember that I'm doing this because I LOVE it and because it makes me feel good.
Lifting weights for me has always been fun, but lately I've started to get down on myself when I have a weak day, or if my weights aren't progressing on a certain lift, and it was never like that with my bodybuilding routine. I didn't freak out about setting PRs and all that all the time. It just makes me stress too much about my training, and that's just stupid.
Of course I want to get stronger, but if that's all it's about, for me, it takes the fun out of it. Especially when I seem to be getting weaker, which has been the case lately. I think as long as I'm pushing myself, lifting heavy, and doing what I enjoy, that's all that matters. That's how I got to where I am in the first place!
So after this next cycle of Wendler, I'll start something new and see what happens with a little less structured approach. And what I'll probably do is take a week or two every now and then to do some CrossFit WODs just for fun. Cuz that's what it's all about, right? Having fun?
I'm also going to start a training log blog, where I'll post my workouts, with exact weights and reps as well as videos from time to time. Should be fun! :)
Wednesday, December 14, 2011
Random Thoughts
Haven't done this in a while! :)
-I'm loving the weather today. The sun is out and it's suppposed to be 65 degrees! It's going to feel like summertime after the cold weekend we had!
-My birthday is in 5 days! I can't believe I'll be 27 years old. I seriously don't feel like I should be 27!
-I can't wait for Christmas. I hope it snows! I'm such a kid.
-My weight is still not up....but I feel like my stomach is fatter...but I always feel like my stomach is fat, so what's new?
-Pretty disappointed that my strength has been going down lately. :( Boo.
-Still trying to figure out what I want to do next for my training plan. Go back to bodybuilding or stay focused on the strength/powerlifting stuff? I think I need someone to just tell me what to do! I'm tired of thinking about it.
-I just want to GROW. Why is it so freakin' hard?
-I miss peanut butter and jelly sandwiches....(now that's random!)
-Today's weather is making me want it to be summer again! I miss those days of floating in the pool all day....ahhh, summertime...
-January and February are my LEAST favorite months, and they always go by soooo slooooooow!
-Hmmm....wonder if there are any good movies out to go see this weekend?
-Can't wait for my cookie cake this weekend!
-I'm loving the weather today. The sun is out and it's suppposed to be 65 degrees! It's going to feel like summertime after the cold weekend we had!
-My birthday is in 5 days! I can't believe I'll be 27 years old. I seriously don't feel like I should be 27!
-I can't wait for Christmas. I hope it snows! I'm such a kid.
-My weight is still not up....but I feel like my stomach is fatter...but I always feel like my stomach is fat, so what's new?
-Pretty disappointed that my strength has been going down lately. :( Boo.
-Still trying to figure out what I want to do next for my training plan. Go back to bodybuilding or stay focused on the strength/powerlifting stuff? I think I need someone to just tell me what to do! I'm tired of thinking about it.
-I just want to GROW. Why is it so freakin' hard?
-I miss peanut butter and jelly sandwiches....(now that's random!)
-Today's weather is making me want it to be summer again! I miss those days of floating in the pool all day....ahhh, summertime...
-January and February are my LEAST favorite months, and they always go by soooo slooooooow!
-Hmmm....wonder if there are any good movies out to go see this weekend?
-Can't wait for my cookie cake this weekend!
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
To Tan or Not to Tan?
I sort of feel like a hyprocrite.
I'm always talking about being the healthiest you can be...Well, I have to admit that I do something that I know is not good for my health, and that is using the tanning bed.
I know it can cause skin cancer and that it leads to ugly, wrinkly skin when you're older....but I just can't stop! I guess I can kind of relate to people who eat unhealthy food even though they know it's bad for them, but they just love it so much that they can't give it up.
I mean, I just love being tan. I have always been a sun worshipper, and I started going to the tanning bed my senior year of highschool. During the summer, I just lay out in the sun, but in the winter I go to the tanning bed once a week or every 2 weeks.
I am just not one of those people who looks good without a tan. I look like I'm sickly ill and on my deathbed when I'm pale! It is NOT a good look for me! Spray tans are just WAY too expensive. I'm not going to spend 30$ or whatever it is every week. And the stuff you put on yourself is just too much work and smells bad(at least the few ones that I've tried)!
I don't want to be all leather faced when I'm old...but I also don't want to be pale right now! What to do, what to do....
I'm always talking about being the healthiest you can be...Well, I have to admit that I do something that I know is not good for my health, and that is using the tanning bed.
I know it can cause skin cancer and that it leads to ugly, wrinkly skin when you're older....but I just can't stop! I guess I can kind of relate to people who eat unhealthy food even though they know it's bad for them, but they just love it so much that they can't give it up.
I mean, I just love being tan. I have always been a sun worshipper, and I started going to the tanning bed my senior year of highschool. During the summer, I just lay out in the sun, but in the winter I go to the tanning bed once a week or every 2 weeks.
I am just not one of those people who looks good without a tan. I look like I'm sickly ill and on my deathbed when I'm pale! It is NOT a good look for me! Spray tans are just WAY too expensive. I'm not going to spend 30$ or whatever it is every week. And the stuff you put on yourself is just too much work and smells bad(at least the few ones that I've tried)!
I don't want to be all leather faced when I'm old...but I also don't want to be pale right now! What to do, what to do....
"I refuse to give up on myself"
I love Oxygen magazine!
One of the first things I do when my Oxygen arrives in the mail is flip to the very last page-the "exhale" page. I just loved the picture and the quote from this one in my newest Oxygen!
One of the first things I do when my Oxygen arrives in the mail is flip to the very last page-the "exhale" page. I just loved the picture and the quote from this one in my newest Oxygen!
Monday, December 12, 2011
My Passion
I just have to say that I just freakin' LOVE lifting. Have I ever mentioned that before? ;)
Call me crazy, I don't care, but going to the gym to lift is the highlight of my day. There's just something about going to the gym, loading those plates onto the bar, pushing that heavy weight, seeing and feeling your muscles working that you've trained so hard for....It just gets me pumped for rest of my day!
Lifting heavy, being strong, and having muscle to show for it gives me confidence and makes me feel SO good that I just can't keep it to myself!!! I get up every day with purpose and drive and motivation.
I love seeing what I can do, and I love conquering the weights(well, most of the time)! It is such a passion and fire within me, and I want all women have this feeling that I have! That is one of the main reasons why I have this blog.
Maybe I am a crazy person, maybe I am obsessed, maybe this passion will fade one day...I don't know. All I know is that right now I couldn't imagine my life without the weights!
Call me crazy, I don't care, but going to the gym to lift is the highlight of my day. There's just something about going to the gym, loading those plates onto the bar, pushing that heavy weight, seeing and feeling your muscles working that you've trained so hard for....It just gets me pumped for rest of my day!
Lifting heavy, being strong, and having muscle to show for it gives me confidence and makes me feel SO good that I just can't keep it to myself!!! I get up every day with purpose and drive and motivation.
I love seeing what I can do, and I love conquering the weights(well, most of the time)! It is such a passion and fire within me, and I want all women have this feeling that I have! That is one of the main reasons why I have this blog.
Maybe I am a crazy person, maybe I am obsessed, maybe this passion will fade one day...I don't know. All I know is that right now I couldn't imagine my life without the weights!
Sunday, December 11, 2011
Weekend Recap and Progress Update
This weekend's cheat meal consisted of dinner at Buckhead, and then some of these yummy things for dessert afterwards(courtesy of Nestle Tollhouse):
The rest of my so very exciting weekend consisted of kicking my husband's butt at Mario Kart(although he would say otherwise) and watching one of the best Christmas movies ever-Elf!
We also took our annual family Christmas photo. We used the self timer on my camera, and I just have to say that my dog is so awesome that he sits there and actually looks right at the camera. He is so dang cute(and my husband's not bad either)! ;)
And..... in other exciting news, I had my husband take my measurements and my bodyfat this weekend. After 2 weeks of tracking my food intake, making sure to get over 2000 calories every day, and eliminating my low carb days, I am up 2 1/2lbs, and my bodyfat was 12.5% (which I am sure is NOT entirely accurate), which is the exact same as it was back in March.
And yesterday as I was going through my nightly flexing routine in the bathroom mirror(yes, I said my nightly flexing routine-don't judge me), I noticed veins popping out that I've never seen before! Maybe it was the big cheat meal I had just had, I don't know. My body is a strange thing. It seems that when I feed it more, it just burns more! Hopefully if I am consistent with this for a month or two, I will put on a few more pounds, but we will see!
Friday, December 9, 2011
Saw this today and thought I'd share. :)
The only 11 things you need to know & do:
1. Love –> Spread It
2. Your Mind –> Discipline It
3. Confidence –> Build It
4. A Challenge –> Transcend It
5. Your Dream –> Go For It
6. Fear –> Overcome It
7. Exercise –> Just Do It
8. A Lesson –> Learn It
9. Success –> Enjoy It
10. Worrying –> Stop It
11. Today –> Live It
Get Excited!
I know so many people who are always so negative and down on themselves. Don't let yourself be one of those people! You'll never achieve anything if you don't have the right mindset and are constantly bashing yourself.
"I'm too old", "I could never do that", "I'll never look like that", "I'm not strong enough", "I just don't have time", "What's the point?" Don't let your life be controlled by negative thoughts like these!!
Get excited about your life and what your future has to offer! Don't set limitations for yourself, and don't be controlled by your fears. If you want something, go for it. STOP doubting yourself. Set a goal, have a plan and commit to it. You may fail at some things, but that doesn't mean you give up!
I'm not just saying this to anyone who's reading this blog, I'm writing these things for MYSELF as well. I will admit that I am the type of person who fears change, who is sometimes afraid to try to new things that I may not be good at, and who doubts myself at times.
But lately for some reason, I've just been so motivated and excited about what I can achieve and how many new things I can try and accomplish in my future.
There are things I'd like to do and have thought in the past, "I could never do that"-but I'm NOT going to think like that anymore! I'm not ever going to rule out the possibility of me being able to do anything. I know that if I set my mind to something, I will achieve it. It may take months, it may take YEARS, but I will do it.
Give yourself more credit. Believe in yourself. Have confidence. Know that you are strong, and that there is nothing holding you back from your dreams but YOU.
"I'm too old", "I could never do that", "I'll never look like that", "I'm not strong enough", "I just don't have time", "What's the point?" Don't let your life be controlled by negative thoughts like these!!
Get excited about your life and what your future has to offer! Don't set limitations for yourself, and don't be controlled by your fears. If you want something, go for it. STOP doubting yourself. Set a goal, have a plan and commit to it. You may fail at some things, but that doesn't mean you give up!
I'm not just saying this to anyone who's reading this blog, I'm writing these things for MYSELF as well. I will admit that I am the type of person who fears change, who is sometimes afraid to try to new things that I may not be good at, and who doubts myself at times.
But lately for some reason, I've just been so motivated and excited about what I can achieve and how many new things I can try and accomplish in my future.
There are things I'd like to do and have thought in the past, "I could never do that"-but I'm NOT going to think like that anymore! I'm not ever going to rule out the possibility of me being able to do anything. I know that if I set my mind to something, I will achieve it. It may take months, it may take YEARS, but I will do it.
Give yourself more credit. Believe in yourself. Have confidence. Know that you are strong, and that there is nothing holding you back from your dreams but YOU.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
2012 Training Goals
I don't really do the whole "New Year's resolution" thing because I don't need a new year to get back on track because I STAY on track ALL YEAR.
However, as I've mentioned before, I do like to constantly challenge myself and stay motivated with my training by setting goals. I accomplished most of my goals for 2011, but it is neverending!
Here are my training goals for 2012:
-Gain muscle(I want to gain 5-7lbs)
-Strict muscle up on rings
-Muscle up on a straight bar
-Bench 150lbs
-Multiple 1 arm pushups
-210lb squat(I have been stuck at 205 for the last year!)
-250lb deadlift
-Handstand walk
-Bodyweight overhead squat(120lb)
-Splits(yes, still haven't gotten these yet-need to spend more time on my stretching!)
I just wanted to say that I am so thankful for discovering CrossFit. It really has changed the way I view my training, and fitness in general.
It has taught me to constantly challenge myself, and I have learned so many new things to add to my training that I would have never discovered without CrossFit.
Through CrossFit, I have learned what my body is truly capable of. I've discovered how good it feels to push yourself past what you thought you could do; to not give up when you think you have nothing left in you.
It has made me want to be better, stronger and faster, and I am no longer satisfied with just training for looks alone. I can't wait for what 2012 has in store for me!
What are your goals for 2012? If you have none, then now's the time to set some! And don't make it something like, "lose weight", or "get in shape". Try something new and set some strength goals for yourself.
Maybe make it a goal to do 10 perfect pushups or be able to squat your bodyweight or do a pullup. And don't you dare give up on that goal. Keep at it until you get there! You will feel AMAZING when you finally reach your goal!
Your training will be so different and much more exciting when you have strength goals that you're trying to achieve, rather than just going through the motions because you feel that's what you have to do to get "skinny".
Make 2012 different! Make it better than 2011! You can do anything you set your mind to!
Wednesday, December 7, 2011
WIAW :)
What I ate:
Breakfast: The ususal- Syntha-6 protein+oats+pb+coffee
Post Workout: Smoothie with 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup frozen fruit, whey protein, milk
Lunch: Chili made with 92% and 96% lean beef(mixed), no salt added diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili beans, 1 rice cake with almond butter
Lunch 2: 1 can of tuna with mayo + handful of baby carrots
Dinner: 2 eggs, 2 whites scrambled with salsa and 1 turkey sausage patty, 1 cup of broccoli
Bedtime snack: 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 2 spoonfuls of peanut butter
Today's workout:
Squat cleans and power cleans
Deadlifts- 3 sets, working up to 200lbs x3
RDLs-110lbs x10 reps, 3 sets, supersetted with weighted situps x10 reps (on decline bench)
Conditioning: 10 kettlebell swings, 15 double unders-5 rounds
Breakfast: The ususal- Syntha-6 protein+oats+pb+coffee
Post Workout: Smoothie with 1/2 banana, 1/2 cup frozen fruit, whey protein, milk
Lunch: Chili made with 92% and 96% lean beef(mixed), no salt added diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, chili beans, 1 rice cake with almond butter
Lunch 2: 1 can of tuna with mayo + handful of baby carrots
Dinner: 2 eggs, 2 whites scrambled with salsa and 1 turkey sausage patty, 1 cup of broccoli
Bedtime snack: 1/2 cup cottage cheese, 2 spoonfuls of peanut butter
Today's workout:
Squat cleans and power cleans
Deadlifts- 3 sets, working up to 200lbs x3
RDLs-110lbs x10 reps, 3 sets, supersetted with weighted situps x10 reps (on decline bench)
Conditioning: 10 kettlebell swings, 15 double unders-5 rounds
I'm a Bodybuilder
Okay, so schizophrenic Lindsay is back at it again. I can't make up my mind about what I want! I don't know when I got so confused about my training! I guess because I'm such a perfectionist and I want to make sure I am on the PERFECT plan(if there even IS one!).
As I stated in a previous post, I've decided to put on some weight this winter in order to build muscle, which means that I have to figure out the best program for me to ensure maximum muscle gain.
BUT-I don't want to stop doing CrossFit stuff because I love it so much, and I don't want to lose my conditioning after I worked so hard all this year to get better at it! :(
I've been doing the Wendler powerlifting program for the past couple months, but don't really know if I'm getting stronger from it....or if it will help me to gain the most muscle possible. I really like it a lot so far, though, and I don't like to flip flop back and forth between different programs, so I'm going to stick with it for a while unless I see no progress whatsoever.
What my mind keeps going back to is my comfort zone; to what I know best: bodybuilding. There's no denying that the way bodybuilders and fitness/figure competitors train results in tons of muscle mass. They know what they are doing, obviously, to achieve muscle and symmetry to shape their bodies in just the right way.
As I stated in a previous post, I've decided to put on some weight this winter in order to build muscle, which means that I have to figure out the best program for me to ensure maximum muscle gain.
BUT-I don't want to stop doing CrossFit stuff because I love it so much, and I don't want to lose my conditioning after I worked so hard all this year to get better at it! :(
I've been doing the Wendler powerlifting program for the past couple months, but don't really know if I'm getting stronger from it....or if it will help me to gain the most muscle possible. I really like it a lot so far, though, and I don't like to flip flop back and forth between different programs, so I'm going to stick with it for a while unless I see no progress whatsoever.
What my mind keeps going back to is my comfort zone; to what I know best: bodybuilding. There's no denying that the way bodybuilders and fitness/figure competitors train results in tons of muscle mass. They know what they are doing, obviously, to achieve muscle and symmetry to shape their bodies in just the right way.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
Good quote from CrossFit Faith today:
“Here we are on earth, with only a few more decades to live, and we lose many irreplaceable hours brooding over grievances that, in a year’s time, will be forgotten by us and by everybody.
No, let us devote our life to worth-while actions and feelings, to great thoughts, real affections and enduring undertakings. For ‘life is too short to be little.’” (Andre Maurois)
“Here we are on earth, with only a few more decades to live, and we lose many irreplaceable hours brooding over grievances that, in a year’s time, will be forgotten by us and by everybody.
No, let us devote our life to worth-while actions and feelings, to great thoughts, real affections and enduring undertakings. For ‘life is too short to be little.’” (Andre Maurois)
Monday, December 5, 2011
And The Muscle Building Journey Continues....
Ever since I started seriously training when I was 18, I wanted to be muscular like the models in Oxygen magazine. I've gained a lot over the 8 years that I've been seriously training -but I want MORE! I want my arms and delts to look like Erin's(on the right-and I admit, I am completely obsessed with her)!
I won't give up on that dream! I WILL look like that some day. Think it, believe it, do it, achieve it! :)
So....in order to achieve this goal, I have to eat more. It's that simple. I have to consume more calories than my body needs to maintain. I will have to gain some fat. I will have to track my food for a little while, which I absolutely HATE doing. But sometimes you gotta do things you hate in order to reach a goal.
Yes, I may look a little "puffy" for a while and lose my abs-but- it is just temporary. I'm not going to eat like crap or anything, I just need to get a few hundred extra calories a day and be consistent with that. No more low carb/lower calorie days. My goal is to gain around 5-8lbs, which is a LOT for me.
I may start doing more of a bodybuilding style program in order to get the most hypertrophy as possible. I'm not quitting CrossFit, I just want to switch up my program for a short period of time in order to achieve this goal. I want something a little more structured right now, with a focus on strength training. Then it will be all about CrossFit again!
Goodbye abs....hello new muscle! ;)
So....in order to achieve this goal, I have to eat more. It's that simple. I have to consume more calories than my body needs to maintain. I will have to gain some fat. I will have to track my food for a little while, which I absolutely HATE doing. But sometimes you gotta do things you hate in order to reach a goal.
Yes, I may look a little "puffy" for a while and lose my abs-but- it is just temporary. I'm not going to eat like crap or anything, I just need to get a few hundred extra calories a day and be consistent with that. No more low carb/lower calorie days. My goal is to gain around 5-8lbs, which is a LOT for me.
I may start doing more of a bodybuilding style program in order to get the most hypertrophy as possible. I'm not quitting CrossFit, I just want to switch up my program for a short period of time in order to achieve this goal. I want something a little more structured right now, with a focus on strength training. Then it will be all about CrossFit again!
Goodbye abs....hello new muscle! ;)
Sunday, December 4, 2011
Saturday, December 3, 2011
Your Struggles Make You Stronger-Just Some Thoughts
Everyone has experienced hard times in their life. Some, more than others. But no matter what you have been through, there comes a time when you have to move on from your past and decide to make the best of your future.
You can’t just wallow in your misery and feel sorry for yourself and all the bad things that have happened to you in your life. Instead, think of them as opportunities for growth and change. How can your experiences make you a better person? How can they make you stronger? How can they help you to help others by what you’ve gone through?
There are things in my life that I wish had not happened; things that I wish were different, but I choose not to dwell on those things. Don’t live in the past. You can’t change what has happened to you, but you can change your attitude and your outlook about them, and the choices you make from here on out.
Don’t hold on to bitterness and anger because it will only make you miserable. Always be forgiving and loving and try to see other people’s point of view. It’s not always easy to do, but try to be positive in every circumstance, no matter what comes your way. Remember that there is always someone out there who has been through or is going through worse than you.
Life is hard, but your struggles make you stronger. Life is what you make of it by how you handle the circumstances that come your way. You are in control of your future, but only if you can let go of your past.
And one last thing-always appreciate what you have. Never ever take it for granted. I have learned that sometimes it takes pain and loss to realize what things are truly important in life.
Friday, December 2, 2011
My Grown Up Christmas List
I am so blessed and filled with so much joy every day. I have more than I could ever ask for-namely, my wonderful husband and a job that I love. I always try to focus on the positive and be grateful for everything that I have and not dwell on the negative things in my life.
But even though I push it away most of the time, there are times when I think about certain things that make me sad. Last night I heard the song, "My Grown Up Christmas List", and it got me thinking about some of those things. :(
I started thinking about how much fun my brother and sister and I had growing up; how much laughter there was...and now...we rarely see each other and that happiness we had together is gone. I miss it. But ever since my dad passed away, my family hasn't been the same. Everything went downhill.
I haven't seen my brother's joyful smile in years....and the goofy, funny sister I once had seems to have disappeared. Instead, joy has been replaced with depression and/or anger in the both of them. I only hope that time will heal the pain, but things have not seemed to get any better after 5 years.
My grown up christmas list is to have the happiness, joy, laughter, and closeness with my brother and sister that we once had. I want us to hang out and have fun together like we used to. I want them to feel the love and peace that comes from God and having a relationship with him. My faith is the only reason why I am able to have joy and peace through all of this, and not depression, anxiety, or anger over what has happened. He gives me JOY, HOPE, and PEACE beyond understanding. I pray that one day they will have that, too.
Thursday, December 1, 2011
Tis The Season!
http://scottabel.blogspot.com/2011/11/tis-season.html
I found this on facebook and just HAD to share. I completely agree with this!
I have never been one to put my "diet" over everything else in life. Yes, I eat healthy most of the time and yes, I have goals to achieve, but I believe there are times to celebrate and enjoy good food and NOT FEEL GUILTY about it.
I didn't eat that great last week with Thanksgiving and the in-laws being in town, but I didn't sweat it. You know why? Because I don't eat like that ALL the time. It actually feels good sometimes to relax and not worry about eating so perfect 24/7.
But your heart is not full
“And the gym may be closed”
You need not resist
I found this on facebook and just HAD to share. I completely agree with this!
I have never been one to put my "diet" over everything else in life. Yes, I eat healthy most of the time and yes, I have goals to achieve, but I believe there are times to celebrate and enjoy good food and NOT FEEL GUILTY about it.
I didn't eat that great last week with Thanksgiving and the in-laws being in town, but I didn't sweat it. You know why? Because I don't eat like that ALL the time. It actually feels good sometimes to relax and not worry about eating so perfect 24/7.
Tis the holiday season
But all up in your head
But all up in your head
“How to stick to your diet”
Fills you with dread
There will be parties and gatherings
Festivities and such
Temptations too many
And pressures too much
And websites and media
Their articles abound -
Be fearful this season Lest you gain a few pounds!”
So you get out the scales
One for the kitchen and bath
You’ll be vigilant this year
No room for a gaff
You’ll weigh every morsal
And then yourself every morn
And if that scales moves slightly
You’ll meet it with scorn
Oh you’ll commit to the diet
But it won’t be a cinch
But it won’t be a cinch
And you’ll do what you must
Becoming a Grinch
No egg nog for you
No drinks to good cheer
Not even hot chocolate
Not even light beer
You’ll skip the big feast
The trimmings and pie
You pretend you don’t want it
But you know that’s a lie
Just one more temptation
To add to the pile
But do you question the costs
Of such extreme self-denial?
So you sneak a few shortbreads
Aware what you ate
And then wash them all down
With a big dose of self-hate
Then you redouble your efforts
Your commitment to self
But your willpower’s shrinking
To the size of an elf
So if that’s what it takes
You’ll try even harder
You become a slave to your diet
And serve as its martyr!
So pile on the guilt
And more contempt for the season
And who could blame you at all
And who could blame you at all
Because you have ‘such a good reason’
You’ll go hungry tomorrow
Yes, that’s the trick
“Bah humbug” this season
That includes you, Ole Saint Nick!
So at the next party
You stick to all veggies - no dips
“A few moments in the mouth
But a lifetime on the hips”
That is your motto
You remind yourself harshly
You’ll stick to the veggies
The garnish, and parsley
So starving you go
While trying to be nice
Resisting visions of sugar plums
And any other food vice
But your heart is not full
Of goodwill toward men
Because your stomach is empty
And your cravings, X’s ten!
No chocolate at all
No candy canes either
Not even a lick
Or on your thighs it will gather
So, you’re sticking to diet
But you seem to have lost all the ‘Merry”
You’ll weigh in tomorrow
And even that is quite scary
And even that is quite scary
“And the gym may be closed”
You hear someone say
“Say it ain’t so man
You’re supposed to workout on that day!”
So instead you start hoping
For a dumping of snow
You can burn lots of calories
In the shovelling, you know
Now you’ve lost all perspective
And something more dear
No glad tidings inside you
Less love and good cheer
To all of you out there
Who want to surrender tradition,
I say - you lose something far more important
Than some lame diet mission.
The Good Book teaches
A time for all seasons
Don’t weigh yourself down
With lame diet reasons
Embrace the full season
And all that it brings
And all that it brings
The food and the drink
And other such things
And on this diet of yours
What if you cheat?
I say, celebrating the season
Is not a defeat
And just put away for now
Your guilt-measuring scale
And if you want to, instead
Have another cider or ale
So I send you all out
This warm season’s greeting
And I suggest to you all
Just enjoy what you’re eating!
I say let go of the guilt
And stick a fork in your diet
And I’m sure you will like this
If you let yourself try it
If you let yourself try it
The guilt and the worry
Will surely poison your mood
And all over what?
Some drink and some food?
There’s a time to make Merry
To be human as well
So why give this all up
For some dark diet hell?
We celebrate yearly
With food and with drink
Embrace them both fully
It’s time don’t you think?
Don’t you get tired
Of the same yearly game?
You crave and resist
And end up with shame
Forget all these experts
Who warn you of gain
They are part of the problem
And cause you more pain
They tell you “be worried”
Or you may end up fatter
They want to generate fear
So ignore all their chatter
You need not resist
And suffer in hiding
Get out there and share
Get out there and share
In warm joyful tidings
There is a time and a place
And the holiday season’s not it
To think that your diet
To think that your diet
Is something you “quit”
Raise a glass to good cheer
And fill your plate up as well
And embrace all the sentiment
From that first jingle bell
Because spiritual fitness
Because spiritual fitness
Is shaped in traditions
So, embrace them in full
Without these self-conscious restrictions
There can be food for the soul
And for the soul, can be food
And there’s meaning in that
And I don’t want to be rude
But there will always be time
For the battle of the bulge
But there should also be occasion
But there should also be occasion
To most fully indulge
So here’s my idea
It’s not so contrary
It’s not so contrary
It’s is far more important – in season
To Eat, Drink, and be Merry!
So hear me exclaim
As I sit here and write
Season’s Greetings to All
And To all
A Good Bite!
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