My Body Balance Blog

So very much to tell!

2006-10-28T10:49:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon everyone,

I do apologize for the length of time since my last entry. September and October have been pivotal months for me. So much has happened and now that I have a few hours to get it all typed in, here goes. Let me say you might want to get a comfy chair, 'cause I already know this is going to be lengthy!

The picture showing above is current as of 10/7/06. This was taken at the Women of Influence Conference in Winchester, VA. It was a wonderful day and hopefully, if you didn't make it to this event, you'll make plans to attend the next.

So, as of today, I have removed 61 pounds. I have been remiss and have not measured lately but I can tell you that the inches are also coming off. Weight machines are wonderful things and help immensely with removing unwanted inches! I'm now soundly in a size 18 with some 16's fitting better. It's so sad. I have absolutely no clothes that fit and refuse to purchase any. The last pair of jeans and top I bought got exactly 3 weeks of wear before being too big. I just can't buy for three week increments. So, thank you Mom and thank you Wanda Schrader. Wanda called me and said 'Cindy, I just went through my closet and have a bunch of clothes that I would like to give you to wear'. Don't you just love friends like that. Now, you have to realize that Wanda shops at Chico's. For those of you that are unaware, Chico's is one of those stores that I press my nose against whenever I go past. Well, not literally, but figuratively speaking. So, to put this into perspective, my Mom wears a 16/18 in clothes. Last weekend, while I was home, she took me on a tour through her various closets. I now have enough 16/18's to get my to Thanksgiving or Christmas. Dresses, slacks, sweaters, tops, shorts (yes, shorts as I may be making a quick trip to Florida for a few days!). It felt like Christmas coming early. I just love my Mom. Then with Wanda's clothes, which are size 12's and smaller, that should get me to the spring. By that time, I don't have any idea where I'm going to be.

Okay, now about the weight machines. I have a list of what I've been using and I'm going to put it here for anyone who is interested in immulating this. Thank you to Richard Turner and Tony Beers in Jacksonville, Fla for helping me out with putting some of this together. Tony is a trainer and Richard, who I met at Pathfinders in Austin last April have been terrific with encouragement, suggestions and routine tweaking. Additionally, Melissa is a Lifestyle Counselor at my gym on the Center for Living Campus at Duke. She works with me as needed to fine tune in the here and now. As you can see, this is a joint effort for which I am most grateful to everyone. Along with all of your encouragements, who could possibly ask for more!

This is not separated by upper and lower body, but by the list on my chart.
As per suggestions by Tony, I only do one set and once I get to 15 reps within that set I up the weight. Also note, that within one hour of finishing exercising you should eat some protein. Doesn't have to be much, a half a protein shake will be fine. I say this because the exercising has taken my appetite away and I really don't feel like eating dinner and usually have to force myself to drink or eat anything after working out. Who would have every 'thunk it'.!!

1. Seated Leg Press. 130 pound weights (I started with 70)
2. Let Extensions: 35 pounds ( I started with 15)
3. Seated leg Curl: 35 pounds
4. Hip Adduction: 40 pounds
5. Hip Abduction: 40 pounds
6. Dual Axis Overhead Press: 30 pounds
7. Dual Axis Chest Press: 50 pounds
8. Back extension: 90 pounds
9. Torso Rotation: 40 pounds
10. Dual Axis Row/Rear Delt: 30 pounds
11. Lat Pulldown: 50 pounds
12. Arm Extension: 30 pounds
13. Standing Tricep Extension: 30 pounds
14. Standing bicep Curl: 30 pounds

Now, I walk 1 mile on the treadmill, then 15 minutes on a recumbent bicycle, then do the weight machines and finish up with another mile on the treadmill. This is every other day, as we must wait 24 hours between weight machine workouts. As I'm in the gym every day except Tuesdays, this leaves the off weight machine days with just the treadmill and the bicycle. Every night is something. Recently, I've purchased a band so that I can work on stretching exercises while at home. You see, now that I've gotten into this, nothing is happening fast enough!

I cannot wait to show my Holiday pictures. We'll see if anyone can tell further improvements.

Now, for some personal observations. Are you ready? Guess what. I went on my very first date in 12 years this past Tuesday night! Was I nervous you ask. I WAS MORTIFIED. As soon as I accepted the dinner date, I called my Mother and said something to the effect of "What the h--- have I done!" She was somewhat simpathetic. She laughed. And laughed. And laughed. Okay, you get the picture. So, after almost cancelling on three occasions (he was smart and asked me out on the same day as the date). I think he realized there couldn't be alot of time for thought in between saying yes and actually going out. Did I have fun. You betcha. I've actually met some really nice guys on match.com. Some local and some not. So, we'll see. Maybe there IS someone out there for me.

All I know is that the body balance program has provided a very healthy way to move forward with my plans and my regaining my health and if it weren't for Nikken we would never have heard of body balance. What does that say about this wonderful company we have.

So, I think this catches everyone up with where I am and how I'm doing. If I can answer any questions, please so not hesitate to contact me. In case you need my email, it is crkey2@netscape.net. I will try to answer in a timely manner, but please do give me a few days for reply. Also, as soon as I get around to measuring I will post the new measurements on the profile. I wish everyone as much success as I am having and let's keep body balancing.

Fondly,
Cindy

Here are my current stats! Don't you just LOVE it!... and a little about what's going on in my life today

2006-10-03T05:12:00.000-07:00

Good morning all!

It's been a while since I brought you current, so hopefully this note will make up for it. The news is all good....

As of 10/03/06 I have reduced by 56 pounds and 39.5 inches. I find this totally exhilirating and I'm having so much fun. It just can't happen fast enough. Here are some details. Bust has gone from 49.5" to 41", hips have reduced from 55" to 47", waist from 49.5" to 41", upper thigh from 34" to 22" and upper arm from 15.5" to 13". I credit my new weight machine program with alot of the recent changes.

I'm working out at my gym approximately 6 days a week. Tuesday nights I have our core preview and leave straight from work. This does not allow me to visit the gym on Tuesdays, but this is the only day I miss. I either work the upper body area one day and alternate with the lower body the next or I do a complete workout one day and skip the weights the second day concentrating on the treadmill, recumbant cross trainer and other equipment on the days I don't use weights. I can certainly tell a difference in the way my clothes are (aren't) fitting and the number of sizes I have reduced. I have gone from a 24(2x) to a size 16/18 depending on the cut. How wonderful!

Now that I'm really on my way, I have started thinking about where I want to end up. A doc once told me that I have a very small frame and that as an full grown adult I should weigh between 96 and 104 pounds. I've always thought he was crazy. For a very brief time when I was 14 years old I weighed 124.5 pounds and while I felt great, I was still on the curvy side, by no means slender. So, for that reason, I'm thinking my ultimate goal will be in the neighborhood of 115 pounds. I have no idea what size this will tranlate to, I'm hoping around a size 8. I've never been in a size 8 before. I think that has a nice ring to it. I'm a size 8. So, these are now my goals. Time frame for reaching this is summer of next year. While I have not looked at a calendar or done the math, I'm thinking that with this goal, even if I'm not all the way there, I will certainly be more than half way and that will still be a huge accomplishment.

So, for other news... my yeast infection is still with me. Docs have decided that it is resistant to treatment and don't have a clue with to treat it with. I am being referred to an infectious disease doctor. Finally! I am continuing to work on solutions for myself. Currently, I am using grapefruit seed extract in my drinks and this combats yeast. Additionally, the other things I've mentioned before continue to be used. I'm waiting for a referral to a ID Doc and we will see how things go from there.

For some funny tidbits: I'm beginning to be noticed by guys! Isn't that funny! Looking forward to beginning to date again. Haven't actually dated in a very long time. I'm thinking the rules have changed since my last relationship ended (1994), so if you have any suggestions on protocol, does and don'ts please send them my way.

Below you will see the details of what used to be listed in my profile. The room was getting a little tight, so I've pasted them here and will simply show the beginning and current numbers for measurements in the profile from here on out.

3/26/06: Bust: 49.5", Waist: 49.5", Hips: 55", Upper thigh: 34", Upper arm: 15.5"
4/21/06: Bust: 46.5", Waist: 49", Hips: 52.5", U thigh: 28", U arm: 15.5"
5/21/06: Bust: 43", Waist: 46", Hips: 50", U thigh: 28:, U arm: 14.5"
6/21/06: Bust: 42", Waist: 45", Hips: 49.5", U thigh: 27", U arm: 14.5"
7/21/06: Bust: 42", Waist: 44.5", Hips: 49.5", U thigh: 27", U arm: 14.5"
8/29/06: Bust: 41", Waist: 42", Hips: 49", U thigh: 26", U arm: 14"

Also, in the next day or so, I'm going to write out the weight machine program I'm using and post it here for anyone who would like this information.

Hope everyone has a great day and let's keep the body balanced.

Fondly,
Cindy

Long time since last entry !

2006-09-26T07:16:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

It's been a while since my last entry. I've been traveling, on vacation and attending our third annual MLM Boot Camp hosted by drill sargents Platinum Carol Riddick, Cary, NC and Platinum Martha Herring, Charlottesville, VA. All I can say is WOW!

I'm continuing on body balance, feeling good, and have lots to tell. I'll make another entry this week. I'm catching up outstanding emails (over 300), getting the immediate work taken care of and will post my latest measurements and wonderful details within the next couple of days.

Thank you to everyone who is supporting my progress. You are all making a difference. To everyone I saw at boot camp, your words of encouragement and the suppportive comments were wonderful.

Life is good and I am enjoying it more and more with every single day!

Cindy

Continued Progress!

2006-09-08T11:35:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Okay, here's the deal. This week marks the beginning of my using weight machines. I found someone to take me through the machines at my gym and my program began this week. Actually, I've been walking on a treadmill everyday since 8/31/06. Wednesday eve was my first time on the weight machines and WOW! I'm using four different machines to work on upper body and arms. Tonight I will repeat the program of walking on the treadmill (I'm up to 20 minutes), using the sitting stepper (which works out both legs and arms) for 10 minutes and then going into the weight machine segment. My goal is to get to 30 minutes walking on a treadmill, 15 minutes on the sitting stepper and then go into the weights program. The weights program will increase as I become more familiar with what I am doing and with the stamina I need to be able to support this type of activity.

I'm already seeing a change; this is so cool! Now, even my smaller clothes (smaller being relative at this point) are fitting more loosely. I'm down 49 pounds and have 11 more that I would like to see gone by the 16th. I know that is ambious, but that is the day I leave for Holden Beach and that is my goal. My size 16 bathing suit (very colorful and NO skirt) is now fitting and it is packed. Don't you just love all the gorey details? Okay fellas, muddle through, I know the girls want the dish.

Body balance is here to stay and I am living proof of it. My meals are rather boring at the moment. I'm continuing to work towards elimination of the yeastie beasties. The itching is almost completely gone and the fact that the weight is dropping is a positive sign. I return for a follow-up visit to my young doc on Tuesday afternoon. She will be testing my blood again for yeast content, anemia, etc. I'll let you know what I hear.

Till later,
Cindy

Let the Party Begin!

2006-08-31T07:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning all!

I had not intended to write this am, but the news is so good, I can hardly contain myself!

Since beginning body balance I have now reduced by 46 pounds! When I started this journey I was wearing a size 24 dress, 2x pant and 2x or 24 top. I am now in a size 18! Let me say that again, size 18! OH MY GOSH! Do you KNOW what this means?!?!?

Bathing suits are fitting, not the ones with skirts, but REAL bathing suits (and I'm going to the beach in 2 1/2 weeks!), my shorts that had been stored away are now out and being worn. Very cute, too, I might add.

Okay, so here's the deal. I've got some firming and toning to do. As the old adage goes, when I stop waving, I want my arms to stop waving as well. I have a friend, Richard, who is sending me some things to do with weights. I belong to a gym and will begin a program of "sculpting and toning" when I receive his input and figure out how to do them. If anyone is in a nearby radius to Durham, NC and would like to help me out, THANK YOU! I can get you into my gym on a $8.00 day pass and we can put together a program for me using the treadmill, sitting stepper, and weights. Do I have any takers? You'd have full access to the gym for the day, swimming pool and gyms can be fun... Right? Okay, guys on the East Coast, be afraid, be very afraid! A monster has been let loose in your midst; and this monster is all about firming, toning, and taking some of the years off that weight and sedentary lifestyle have added.

What a good day this is!

Hope everyone has a great day, weekend and Labor Day Holiday. Let me hear from you and happy body balancing. Thank my good fortune for Nikken and Body Balance.

Fondly,
Cindy

Updated measurements!!!!!

2006-08-29T04:10:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone!

I've posted my most recent measurements to my profile and do I ever love the numbers. I continue to be an oversized person, but the numbers are definitely getting better!

Here they are:

Waist 42", Hips 49", Upper thigh 26", Chest 41" and upper arm 14 inches. This calculates for a total of 31.5 total inches reduced. I knew my clothes had gotten much more roomy over the last couple of weeks.

Now with this new yeast protocol, the pounds are literally dropping off. You just have to love it when a plan comes together, especially one where you've put alot of hard work into it and you can see the vision and don't let go.

This is so worth it! I get excited all over again when ever I think of the end result. The difference now is that I can really see it coming true!

Life is good and it's up to us to live it to the fullest!

Have a wonderful day. I'll write again soon.

Fondly,
Cindy

I Love Nikken Folks --- Yeast Protocol at Work --- Pounds are coming off again!

2006-08-27T06:16:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

As the title implies there will be alot of news to share in this entry. I've not written in over a week, which is in itself out of the norm for me. The reason is simple... I wanted to make sure the yeast protocol was working before I put it out there for everyone to see.

First, let me say that I absolutely cannot imagine there being any other folks on the face of the earth that are more giving and caring than those that are in some way affiliated with the works of Nikken. So many of you have expressed such a sincere interest in how I am doing on a continued basis and have offered up suggestions and guidelines for what will help with the elimination of these yeastie beasties (as I first heard Mary McGee call them). I want to gratefully thank everyone who has shared their solutions and offered support over the past several months. You are all a part of my continued success and I want you to know that I am very aware of that fact. This is certainly a group effort. Never before have I had such a support system in place and I contribute my success so far to this amazing support system.

I have been tweaking a program I'm using to get rid of my beasties. My last visit to the young doc was on 8/8/06. She sent me home with a script for Diflucan x 2 and a follow-up visit in 6 weeks. As most of us know, the script x 2 was good for a time period of 14 days. For the remainder of the time until my 9/12/06 visit, I would have been suffering with the lack of success of this strategy and would have been no better of when seeing her next. So, this is the reason I have taken matters into my own hands (once again!) and have sought out the advice and expert opinions of those I have learned to trust - Nikkenites!

Some of what I am using comes from the Nikken product line, some does not. For those of you who will frown and not like the fact that I am talking about products not specific to Nikken, all I can offer to this criticism is the fact that I completely trust all that Nikken has to offer, but unfortunately for us all, the product line of Nikken is not all inclusive and sometimes we must venture outside this spectrum to obtain what we require.

I would also like to say at this point that I've had the entire program in place since last Thursday, 8/24/06 and I have once again begun the shedding of pounds in rapid form and I'm currently at 40 pounds gone (and never to return)! I know -- never say never, but after this journey, I venture to say that the fight is on and I am determined to keep off what I have removed!

Keep in mind a few very important facts. I cannot intake any of the following forms of "food", fats, sugars, dairy or vinegar. Basically, I will be eating meats and vegetables and only meats and vegetables until my yeastie beasties are gone. Also, this program is considered agressive, so be aware that the numbers shared below, while they partain to me, may be more than your body can handle. Please know that you should be working with someone who is versed in the area of nutrutionals and herbs.

So, here is my program... In the am (prior to breakfast), I take, in addition to my morning 2 scripts, one Lactoferrin Gold 1.8, one fruit/berry capsule, one veggie capsule, one yeast/fungal detox capsule, 2 burn capsules, 3 liver support capsules and a whole lot of pi water. At breakfast, I have a body balance protein shake along with 2 caprylic acid combination capsules, 2 citrus biofavoniods capsules, one iron (325 mg) tablet (I have been diagnosed with anemia - hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are way below normal). For right now, my shakes are plain with the addition of fiber and jade greenzymes, no fruit as this is a no/no. I'm also having a little less of my drink during meals, as I will be using the shake to get me through cravings throughout the day.

So, mid morning or any other time of day or night that I have a food craving, I get through it with a partial bb shake. Fact to consider, when the beasties die off, they emit a gas that goes to the brain and is responsible for the cravings for sugar that are incountered. These beasties do not want to die and will go to extreme measure to get us to eat sugar and other foods that will extend their lifespan. This is as much a "game" of willpower as any you will encounter. We have to know this is occuring and be ready for battle at any given time. Giving in to a craving for sweets could set you back weeks in the program to become yeast free. Mary says that the body balance shakes are perfect during this period of time as they will satisfy the craving and not be harmful to our mission.

Prior to lunch, I take 2 more burn capsules. With lunch I take 2 more caprylic acid capsules, 2 more citrus bioflavonoids capsules, and again a whole lot of pi water. I either eat my lunch or dinner (usually eat lunch and drink dinner). With dinner, I again take 2 caprylic acid capsules, 2 citrus bioflavonoids and another 325 mg iron tablet. At bedtime, I take another lactoferrin Gold 1.8 capsule, glucophage for my diabetes (hoping to be off this soon!), another yeast/fungal detox capsule, 2 cleanse capsules and again alot of pi water.

Now, at some point in the day, I also take Immunity. This is because I do not want to get sick with all this detoxing that is going on and I have found Immunity to be very, very beneficial.

My intent was to post my latest measurements as part of this entry. Unfortunately, I have once again left them on the dresser top. So, probably tomorrow, you will see another entry with the updated measurements. I know the measurements have changed, because I am now continually "hiking" up "britches" up when I wear them. So of my pants have draw strings, thank goodness and I can simply pull these tighter. But for the slacks that have elastic, I see a day spent at my Mom's sewing machine taking up seams in my future. Oh boy, what fun (I don't like to sewing machine sewing as the machine usually sees me coming and has a wonderful time causing havic at my expense - jammed bobbins, broken threads, knots, need I go on).

I have a week's vacation to Holden Beach, NC coming up in September (3rd week) and I'm working towards another ten pounds gone by then. With this latest surge of weight reduction, I believe this is going to be a reality. What fun! I have three new bathing suits I've never worn because I bought them and then couldn't wear them and didn't return them. I believe these are now going to fit and can hardly wait to get on the beach! Beach combing is my very favorite leasure activity and I plan on spending an entire week looking for shells, walking, splashing in the surf's edge, surf fishing with my Dad, laying out in the sun (and yes sweating) and doing absolutely only what I want to do. Yes, I will work a little while there. I have some prospects in the area that I have been dripping on for some time and I always find time to visit and keep in touch.

Well, this has been a long entry. I'll close for today. Will get the measurements posted soon. Let me know if I need to clarify anything.

Happy Body Balancing,
Cindy

New Picture

2006-08-18T03:55:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone,

I've had a request to replace my picture with a more current one and have done so. I have the initial picture and have posted it at the beginning of this entry so that it can be preserved as my beginning point. I don't want to forget where I was when this journey began, but frankly today is the beginning of a new journey with the stakes no less important than they were four+ months ago.

Thank you to everyone who has emailed with encouragement and suggestions. I really appreciate you feedback and have encorporated a number of the suggestions into my current program. Once I see positive results, I will share my program.

All my best,
Cindy

Thank Goodness for Body Balance!

2006-08-15T04:47:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone,

I want to begin by thanking everyone who has sent suggestions, well wishes, prayers, and encouraging words. I'm overwhelmed with how many of you are continuing to read my entries and responding with comments and feedback.

The past few weeks have been rough. I'm hoping that better days are ahead of me and that the bad is behind me. While I realize it is going to take a while to get rid of my yeast buildup, it is good to know what I am doing battle with and what is at stake.

I want to make a very important point, and I want you to realize just how important this is. In my pre-body balance days, if this had happened while I was on a program to loss weight, not only would the program had been lost, I would have back-slid and would now be on the road to putting back everything that 'might' have been achieved. While going through these weeks of worry, frustration and uncertainty, I have continued with the burn and cleanse tablets as part of my daily routine. The meal replacement shakes have not been used for two meals a day, and on some days, not even one meal a day. There were days when I didn't even eat a meal a day and there are other days when I ate three meals a day. I have, however, continued to use the shakes on a random basis. As of this morning, I am back on my regular routine of two shakes a day and one meal a day. And guess what! My weight is right where it was three weeks ago and my body balance program is intact. This has certainly taught me a very important and valuable lesson; specifically that the body balance program is flexible, works into what ever drama I have going on in my life and can be incorporated and put on pause as needed. It is so wonderful to have a program that works with me and not against me. All I can say to the creators of our Body Balance Program is thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you.....

I'm not going to make this entry a long one. I just wanted to check in and let everyone know that life is good, I'm beginning to feel better and I hope everyone is well and having continued success with their own body balance programs.

Warmly,
Cindy

The results are in........

2006-08-09T13:09:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone,

Well, there is much to tell, I'm not sure where to begin. My head is spinning so I hope this is coherent.

Tuesday, I visited the young doc to receive the results of my CLL test. The results were not in yet. No big surprise there. However, never let it be said that the young doc let any grass grow under her feet, she found something else to talk about. Apparently, I am anemic. My hemoglobin and hematocrit are below normal, my iron is very, very below normal, my platelets are elevated and my white count is through the roof. So, now I am taking iron supplementation twice a day in an attempt to elevate this count. Additionally, we have no idea what is causing this decline. So, more tests to determine if I have internal bleeding. (Don't you just love how she jumps to the really bad stuff with no hesitation). So, one of the tests is to test my urine to see if there is any blood in it. I'm not going to talk about the other test - yuck!

After spending two and a half hours on this visit, having two needle sticks (they HAD to have blood again for testing and tried unsuccessfully to take it from the back of my hand first [a newby] and then successfully [a veteran] from my arm and having the doc tell me my test results weren't in yet, I got to go back to work. But not before young doc said she wanted me to come back in 7 days. I said no. Frankly, they are hitting me up for $35.00 every time I walk through the door and I see no reason for her to have to see me in person to give me results from a test. So, she agreed to call me. I did make an appointment for 6 weeks to follow-up on the progress of taking the iron tablets.

Funny thing, young doc called me yesterday to let me know that my urine sample had shown no blood, but did have an unusually large amount of yeast in it. NO KIDDING! She seemed so shocked by this that she had to repeat it several times. She then commented that it was enough of a showing that it "could" be causing my elevated white count. [Are you with me here!]. She called in a script for me take over the next couple of weeks to get the yeast infection under control. It's sad to say that she apparently was yet again not listening to me yesterday morning because the script she called in is the same one I've been trying for years that DOES NOT WORK! Here we go again.

This morning I called young doc's office to see if the CLL test results had materialized. Not expecting any problems, but I would like to hear the words, you know what I mean. The triage nurse promised to call me as soon as she could find out any news. Not too long later, she calls back to say 'I have good news, the CLL test came back negative, there is no sign of cancer" Now that was the first time the C word had been used, so I guess they only like to use it when the news is of a good nature. She then went on to say ' - young doc - said that the yeast infection was the probable cause of my elevated white counts and that I should begin taking the script as soon as possible.' Okay folks, correct me if I'm wrong, but isn't this what I tried to tell her 10 days ago when first we met? I have to hand it to her, young doc is a real piece of work.

So, current day, here is where I stand, after 10 days of pure internal worry, torture and dread... I no longer have parasites, they have been 'eliminated' (pun intended). I do have a major yeast infection, for which I am now on a script, along with a fungal and yeast detox, lactoferrin, an additional 11 species probiotic and all the other nutritionals I've always taken (Nikken, of course). I feel like cra-. I spiked a fever last night and have been functioning since as best as I can. It's not an option to be 'sick' right now. Too much going on. Hoping the script and iron tablets will kick in and do what's intended. Body Balance continues, although I will say that stress of this nature tends to do away with one's appetite. No shakes, no meals, no food, just a little nibble here and there. I got part of an apple down yesterday! Over the weekend I was able to have some fashion of normal life as I was visiting my folks and had another successful SPA Day to promote and manage. [Little plug here - our next SPA DAY is scheduled for 9.2.06 in Winston-Salem, NC for anyone who would like to attend - just let me know].

Currently, I am down 37 pounds and 27 inches. I am planning a major push between now and 9.16.06, which is the date I leave for the beach!! A little exciting news. I bought a pair of pants last week. My usual pants are elastic waist, so these were kind of special since they buttoned and zipped. Well I wore them to work today. I guess they are now officially too big. I went to the bathroom, forgot that they needed to be unbuttoned and unzipped and just slide them down. Bummer. I know too much information, but for anyone who wears elastic and doesn't want to, this is a major turn of events. Also, for all the practical folks, please don't suggest a belt. I detest belts! I hope to never wear a belt again! [will probably eat those words - do words have calories? - probably another story]

If I've rambled, my apologies. As I said this is alot of information. Also, if it didn't make sense, let's just blame it on the fever.

I think this is enough for now. Everyone have a terrific evening and we'll 'talk' soon.

Cindy

And the Story Continues.....

2006-08-01T09:10:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon all,

Thought I would take a few minutes to catch everyone up on the lastest.....

This story will emphasize why I absolutely detest going to see doctors!!!!!!!!!

As my last entry shared, my total WBC count is continuing to climb. Well, my appointment with a hematologist was yesterday morning. My doc couldn't be an older than 30-35 years of age and she is already so closed minded that I left her office wanting to scream, literally scream.

Okay, to begin with she is testing me for CLL. That stands for Chronic L___________ Leukemia. Not sure of the second word, either lymphocytic or leucocytic or something like that. This is not the terminal form of leukemia. It is treatable according to the young doc. My results will be in next week and I return on Tuesday the 8th at 9:30 to hear them. So far, so good. Playing devils advocate, I asked how we would "treat" this if the tests were positive. Her reply was that she would not treat, just monitor at this time. My numbers would have to double before she would treat with an "oral medication". Then if things worsened, she would go to an IV chemotherapy. OMG!!! Now I realize that the "oral medication" is also a chemo drug and she is being very sly with her choice of words. Now, lets talk about the other side of the coin. I ask what is next when the test comes back negative. You see, I already have in my mind that my current situation is due to a yeast infection. I can see your wheels spinning and you're wondering why I think this.

Okay follow me here.....

Friday eve, I had my blood tested by Ted Aloisio. He found yeast buildup in my blood and suggested that my issues could be coming from this. He suggested going on a yeast protocol to remove the yeast from my system and said that it could take upwards of a couple of years to get rid of all yeast. I had a tape of the blood sample to show doc (she did not want to look at it and said she was making her own blood smear). Also, consider that I have been telling my PCP for over 5 years that I have a yeast infection and she has done absolutely nothing to treat it. I have not pushed the issue, but will now, you can count on it. So, I asked young doc yesterday if the yeast infection could be causing my problems. She said no. WHAT! I commented that I thought white cells were supposed to combat infections and that if I had a yeast infection then that could be a valid reason for the buildup of white cells. She said, oh yes, in that situation the infection could be the cause of the WBC buildup. "But you look too healthy to have a yeast infection. If you had that bad of an infection you would be in the hospital". {note: I'd rather she determine if the infection is there via an exam or test, rather than how good I 'look"} She then said her next concern would be all the nutritionals and supplements I'm taking from Nikken. WHAT! I never could get her to say how Calcium at night and barley grass and vegetable and fruit tablets could cause WBC counts to be elevated. I asked her if I was clear that she was not even going to consider that I had a yeast infection and that she was going to go straight to nutritionals. She said that was right. AMAZING! I had to push the point of an infection, I mean really push. Finally, she did an exam and said: "Oh, you do have a yeast infection!". I could have strangled her at this very minute. I finally told her that to my way of thinking it's because of the nutritionals and supplements from Nikken that I'm feeling as good as I do and that I haven't been admitted to the hospital before now. At this point, she turned patronizing. Again, I could have strangled her. What is it going to take for doctors in the US to open their eyes and wake up to the fact that THEY DON"T KNOW EVERYTHING!

Okay, so now, I'm waiting for results of the blood tests to return. My current thinking is as follows: if the test is positive, she is going to monitor me. Hardly a true statement as I doubt very seriously I will be using her as a doctor in my future. When the test is negative, I will be returning to my PCP and DEMANDING that the yeast infection be addressed and resolved. If by chance it is found that neither of these areas are causing my situation, well then we will address that then.

What I'm left with right now are energy swings - periods of time with lots and lots of energy and periods of time with very very little energy. I'm also running a very low grade fever most of the time.

So, that's the update. Now for some good news!

This past weekend I was priviledged enough to be part of the ESSENCE of Wellness Expo in Richmond, Va. It was terrific! Thank you to Barb Satterwhite and all the folks that worked so hard to bring us such an amazing line-up of wonderful speakers and events. Another good part of the weekend was that I dropped another 4 pounds (on Saturday). For everyone there, you will understand why. For those that did not attend, you won't understand the reason why, but just know that I am 4 pounds lighter. How wonderful.

I'm off this weekend to Winston-Salem, NC to hold a SPA Day at Creative Hair Care and Day Spa in Reynolda Manor Shopping Center on the 5th. If you're in the area stop by and see us. We'd love to hear how you're doing.

I'll be in touch first of next week and bring up all the latest. It's great to be dropping pounds and firming up. The clothes are bigger and bigger - come on new wardrobe!!!!!!!!

To everyone, keep up the good works and we'll talk soon.....

Regards,
Cindy

Freaking Out !!

2006-07-27T03:49:00.000-07:00

Good morning everyone,

I have my total WBC counts back from the lab and it isn't good. I've gone back and forth for two days on whether to post them here or not. Not because I don't want you to know, but because I don't want to scare anyone and I don't want to freak anyone out. Believe me, I'm scared enough and freaking out enough for everyone! My white count is now at 13.9. That's not good. I've been told emphatically to see a Hematologist. I have calls in with two very good docs here at Duke and am currently waiting for an appointment to be set up. I have no idea what is going on, but apparently, my body is in a fight of some sort and I can only imagine that the fact my white count is so high means that the battle is raging.

I understand that we have very knowledgeable Nikken family members out there and if anyone has any words of wisdom, I could sure use them right about now.

I'm scheduled to have my blood tested by Ted Alosio (I hope I spelled his name right, but don't think so) on Friday evening.

I'd appreciate any prayers you might like to offer and I'll keep everyone posted as to progress.

I promised at the onset of this blog to give you the good, bad and ugly. Up til this point most of the entries have been good, I guess this is the bad, can't think of any ugly (unless you want to consider the squatters being expelled from my system). So, it's time for more good. I'll do my best to come up with some.

Hope everyone has a great day! Some of you I'll see in Richmond this weekend and for everyone else, I probably won't post again til sometime next week.

I am continuing with the body balance program. The weight is coming off much slower now, but I am more determined than every to get it off. I have noticed slight differences in the distribution of certain areas of my body. For example, I am beginning to see muscle tone in my legs. This is pretty cool!

I'll be in touch.

Take care,
Cindy

Actual numbers for four month update

2006-07-23T04:42:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

I wish the numbers could be better, but in all honesty I'm very glad that I progressed in the right direction over this past month. I'm counting on this being a hurdle that I've conquered and that improvements will occur from this point forward. I've updated my measurements on the profile page. The weight is as follows. At the conclusion of three months I was down 32 pounds. At the conclusion of four months I'm down 33 pounds. This month I have struggled with a pound up and a pound down, back and forth, back and forth. Yes, I'm happy that the pound is on the side of reduction, but I'm horrified that the entire month was dedicated to one pound. Month five has to be better! I'm concentrating on the positive..... I am 33 pounds smaller than I was four months ago. That is major, but I want more, I need more. So, here we go on month five with new committment and focus. I'm hangin in there and i want you to do the same.

I'll write again soon.

Regards,
Cindy

Four month update coming soon....

2006-07-22T10:38:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon everyone,

Yesterday was my four month anniversary. The progress has been slow this month with steps forward, sliding back and then steps forward again. I have my measurements ready to input and left them on the dresser this morning. I will update these just as soon as I get back to a computer tomorrow am. The weight is down some, but not nearly as much as I would have anticipated. This is rough! and worth every heartache and struggle we are going through.

I visited the lab Thursday afternoon and had my blood work repeated. Anxiously awaiting those results as I've been working very hard to rid my body of parasites. Many of you will remember that my total white blood cell count was 11,000 just this past May 1, 2006. In addition to the detoxifying cleanse with our body balance program, I've been using ParaCleanse to aid in the successful removal of the pesky little squatters. After four cycles (10 days on and 5 days off = one cycle) of ParaCleanse, my body told me that I didn't need that any more when it became almost impossible to swallow the capsules. (Remember, our bodies reject what we don't need and welcome what we do). Ann retested for the microbial parasites and found no evidence of them. She did, however, find continued evidence of parasites and I began taking Black Walnut a little over a week ago. The blood test Thursday was for total white blood cell count and by all accounts should be improved over May's reading. I'll let you know when I get the results.

My energy level is continuing to remain high. This is a constant source of amazement to me. I'm continuing with regular body balance workshops and have begun working support segments into the workshops when needed. It fluctuates. If someone already using the program is present, we offer support and answer questions. If the audience is all new folks, we concentrate on the program and how it works. The workshops continue to be alot of fun and it is certainly rewarding when someone gets excited and begins their journey to a healthier lifestyle.

Plans are being made to begin a monthly support call much as we had several nights ago. This call will offer guest speakers with relevance to weight management and will have a good portion of time segmented for questions and concerns. I will always take questions in email form if someone wants a question answered but does not care to talk on the call. I'm already making my list and checking it twice to line up guest speakers and man is this a powerful list! I'm really excited and we haven't even gotten underway yet.

All the best to everyone and keep up all your good works.....

Warmly,
Cindy

Wow What a Night!

2006-07-18T07:10:00.000-07:00

Good day everyone,

I've been away since last Thursday and have not been able to post an entry about last week's Body Balance Support call. Thank you to everyone who made this call such an incredible success! Carol Riddick was a suburb host moderator (as always) and Tim Kemp shared his inspiring story with us all. Debbie Davis, Corporate Speaker with Nikken and so knowledgable about the body balance program (as well as so many of the other areas we have to offer) was a delight to have on the call. Debbie outlined the various components to the program and how we can use them to our advantage as well as made herself available for the Q&A portion of the call along with Tim and myself.

Personally, I could feel the energy on the call and look forward to hearing many of your success stories coming through in the days and weeks ahead.

I've received many emails from folks offering encouragement and inspiration. I cannot thank you enough for your continued support. Support is a strong motivator to any program staying fresh and being recharged over the long term.

For me this is a critical time and I suspect for others as well. A critical time where the program has the potential of beginning to become stale and boring. It is up to each of us to become/remain creative and inventive so that this program continues to offer us the bright futures we all know it can; both physically and financially. I am not willing to stop at this point in my process. I have a vision of where my future is headed and what I will have earned along the way. This is a vital component with any program and as many of us have learned within our Nikken families (teams) it is imperative that we have a vision and the drive to keep us going when it gets rough and it's just us and our thoughts/willpower/drive/stamina/imagination holding us together.

I'd love to hear how you're using your creativity to keep our body balance program fresh and on track. If you don't mind sharing your ideas, drop me an email and I'll include your ideas in a future entry.

I was hoping to get more said today, but my time is running out. I'll be on again soon. I have moved into a new phase with my Body Balance Workshops today. This evening I will be hosting the first body balance workshop that will focus on both the newcomers to the program and to the folks who have been in for a while and are looking for support. I am looking forward to this new format as it shows the progress we are all making!

Warmly,
Cindy

Nationwide Body Balance Support Conference Call!

2006-07-09T11:18:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon everyone,

I am so excited to share with you that we will be holding a nationwide body balance support conference call this coming Thursday evening, 7/13/06 at 9:30 pm, eastern time. To call in use telephone number 646-519-5860 with code: 1244. We will have 150 lines to access and I'm telling folks to get on early to make sure you get a line.

I'm going to walk you through where I've come from and where I am today. I'm also going to talk about the different components of the body balance program, what they are intended to accomplish and various ways we can use the program.

Tim Kemp will also be on the call. His story is amazing! He's removed over 50 pounds since beginning this incredible program and while I could tell you all the positive things that have happened to him since, I'll keep you in suspense and let him tell his story......

I'm working to get Dr. Pederson on the call and will accept any assistance to this end that is offered. I've had the honor on two different occasions of asking my questions to him directly and his feedback has been instrumental in my success.

The second half of the call will be dedicated to questions specific to the program. This support call is for anyone already on the program and for those who are contemplating beginning the program. I cannot convey strongly enough how important I feel this program is to the future of those who battle health issues compounded by weight issues. We have a vitally important tool in our hands with which we can all make a difference in our own lives as well as those we love around us and those we have yet to meet.

My thought is to begin a weekly support call, say on Sunday evenings at around 9 pm, eastern time. I'm working on finding an available line and I'm putting out feelers to see if there is any interest in this. My gut feeling is that there is enough interest to support this, but I need to hear from you as confirmation.

I'm continuing on the program. Progress is slow. I knew it would be. I have my really, really good days and I have my not so good days. Focus and will power are keeping me on track. Someone contacted me with the idea of downloading cd's to an iPod and/or MP3 player and listening to this while exercising. This is an excellent idea and is currently in the works. Thank you for your suggestion.

I'm looking forward to reaching my next milestone. Haven't decided what that will be yet, seems like part of the fun is deciding... I'm scheduled to spend a week at Holden Beach in September. My target will probably coincide with this trip.

I'll be in touch. Keep up your good works and spread the word of body balance every chance you get. You just never know who's listening and whose life you might have a hand in changing...

Warmest regards,
Cindy

Happy 4th of July!!

2006-07-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

Good evening all,

It's been a while since writing; not because I don't have anything to say, but for some reason everytime I move toward the keyboard, something else comes up. I know, that's an excuse and I'm sorry. I'll practice to be more diligent in the future.

So, I hope everyone is getting their contest forms in. As I understand it, they must be mailed by the 15th of July. Good luck (p.s. sure hope I win). I know that isn't very nice, and I really do hope whoever wins has an absolutely delightful time shopping for their new clothes. I understand first hand how important ill fitting clothes are to a dreadful day and how important well fitting clothes are to a super day. Personally, I prefer the super day!

Over the past couple of weeks I've been branching out. I've had the wonderful opportunity to speak at two very exciting events - the first in Greenville, SC hosted by the Carolina Wellness Group (with special guests including Dr. Gordon Pederson)and the second in Raleigh, NC hosted by Dr. Caryl Guth along with Jo Smith and Israel Bocanegra (with special guests including our Dennis Williams and Ann Bodak). I was fortunate enough to meet alot of very interesting people at both of these Expos and appreciate all the good wishes and good conversation that occurred at both.

Additionally, I held a Body Balance Workshop in Fuquay Varina, NC where we were able to introduce our program to a whole new group of folks for the very first time. The enthusiam for this program was very apparent and we will definitely be going back to the area for follow-up workshops.

This brings me to a topic that I haven't heard talked about much, but we all need to begin thinking about. In addition to holding Body Balance Workshops, I will now begin combining the workshop format with a segment for the folks that have been participating in the program for a while - support group format. I'm thinking of calling these my Body Balance Workshops and Support Group Follow-up. Support groups are not something that I have alot of experience with. I can imagine going in free style and answering questions from folks, but I can't help but think that there's more to it that that. If anyone is participating in a support group or if anyone has any suggestions on what we should cover in a support group follow-up segment, I would love to hear from you - crkey2@netscape.net. Thanks.

I held my very first Spa Day on Saturday. Now that was amazing. One of my team members owns her own Beauty Salon and Day Spa. We sent out coupons and passed out flyers over the past month. I really didn't have much idea what to expect - I sure do now! Thank you Wanda Schrader for spending your day with me. I absolutely could not have made it through the day without you! We got started before noon and neither one of us had a minute to stop until almost 6 pm. We shared magnetic roll-outs, facials, body balance shakes and information, muscle strength testing, information on water, air, nutritionals and you name it and we covered it. If you can picture this, we had clients in the shop, sitting under hairdryers with their feet on a body energizer pulling out their cell phones and calling their friends to come by and share in the day. Like I said, it was amazing. My point to all this. ENERGY. Pre-body balance there is no way I would ever have attempted a day like this. Another example: I'm spending a few days with my folks in Winston-Salem. Mom fixed dinner tonight (I just love Mom's cooking and since she's on the program also, the food is well balanced, and fits into the program perfectly). When I got up from the table, I said, 'I'll clean up' and began moving the things off the table and working on the after dinner "mess". Mom said "where do you get all your energy?" I had to laugh. Before body balance we would have been in a race to see who could get to the recliner first and neither one of us would have even wanted to get up from the table. From over eating? No, but the energy just wasn't there. Now, I actually don't know where the energy is coming from and I continue to expect not to have any so it's a wonderful surprise as I continue to have energy and it seems to be getting stronger every day. I told Mom this and assured her that when she got a little further along with her program, she could expect the same results. Frankly, I think she is already there. She was up before me this am and dusted and vacumed the entire house by 1 pm today. Then she turned around and had dinner on the table when my Dad got home from work. I think that takes alot of energy! Okay, I can see you asking, where was I during all this? I was also working (Nikken). I met with Mary to go over the results from Saturday's Spa Day and we are now scheduled to hold our next one the first Saturday in August. I see good things in both our futures! I definitely have some planning to do though. Now that we have one under our belts, we can go into this one knowing what we need to tweak.

Now for some personal reflection. I sent in my before/after pics along with my contest entry this week. When I began this program I was wearing a size 24, now I'm in a 18/20 depending on the cut. I'm down 32 pounds, 26 inches and I feel great. I'm due to return to my doc's lab to have my blood work repeated in about 10 days. I'll keep you posted on how my total white blood cell count comes out. I'm continuing on the complete program and do not plan on making any changes any time soon. I continue to see the fat person looking back at me from the mirror; however, I've been told by someone who knows that it takes our brains three years to adjust to the fact that our bodies have slimmed down. That seems like a very long time for my brain to catch up, but it does seem to be factual. I will admit, when I saw my after pic and held it up to my before pic, even I could see a significant difference. The pic at the beginning of this entry is my after pic, so what do you think?

I hope you are all well and continuing with your respective programs. If can be of any assistance to anyone, please don't hesitate to email me. It may take me a few days to get back to you, but I will contact you, promise.

Please have a very safe and fun filled 4th of July. I appreciate your support and don't know where I would be today without it. Best to all.....

Fondly,
Cindy

3 month numbers..... Reflection..... Clarification

2006-06-22T04:06:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

Yesterday was my three month anniversary on our Body Balance Program. To date I have shed 32 pounds and a total of 25.5 inches. You can see the distribution of inches in my profile.

This past month has been more difficult that I had initially anticipated. This has been the month where I've worked through my own personal sabotage and struggled to maintain the integrity of the program. Although my numbers are not substantially less than one month ago, the results have continued to be positive and for that I feel successful. I'm stronger now that a month ago and I believe that moving into month four will show a greater percentage of reduction than in previous months. I've proven to myself that I can do this and that I have the will power to get myself back on track. I encourage each of you to not give up. The reward is going to be so worth it when we reach our respective goals. We're almost going to have to throw a nationwide party to celebrate our strength and accomplishments!

Now for some unpleasant housekeeping..... I would like to make a clarification for everyone who is reading my blog on a regular basis. In the past few weeks, I've been receiving feedback from a few folks who are concerned that I talk about products and programs other than Nikken sponsored. They are wondering if this is an appropriate place to send prospects who are considering trying our Body Balance Program since the Nikken Body Balance Program is not being talked about exclusively. I've even been asked to refrain from speaking about anything that I've been using except for the program. I want everyone to understand my purpose in writing this blog.

This blog is intended to serve as a comprehensive and honest accounting of my experiences using our Body Balance Program and whatever else it takes to help me reduce from a fat person to a healthy, more slender person. This blog is NOT intended to be a commercial for anyone; whether it be Nikken, Ann Jones and her recommendations or the Para-Cleanse product I've been using. All of the services, programs and products that I have encorporated into my weight management program have a place here. They are all part of my personal program and story. Anyone who has been reading this from the beginning will understand that due to the nature of some of my health issues (total white blood cell count of 21000) more than the body balance program is necessary. I have discussed this personally with Dr. Pederson and his opinion was that my my use of the para-cleanse was a good choice and that I was addressing exactly the issues I need to be addressing. He is pleased with my progress, as I am. It should also be understood that without the body balance program, there would be no weight loss. The body balance program is the reason that this blog is possible in the first place.

I feel strongly that in order to be honest about my experiences and to be accountable in my results, I cannot refrain from telling the entire story. So, having said that, I guess my best suggestion for folks having reservations about sending someone to read this blog is this.....

If you feel uncomfortable sending someone to read this blog, then don't send them. The Body Balance Program is the emphasis behind my success and while the majority of the blog is about how this program is working and succeeding, it is not the entire story. If you want someone to read the full story of how I've managed to reduce 32 pounds and 25.5 inches in three months, then by all means I welcome anyone who wishes to read my story (and that is the bottom line here, this is my story and will be told according to how I see it - no exceptions.) That's all I'm going to say about this for right now.

I would like to remind everyone that the contest for the wardrobe is nearing its cut off date. Be sure to have your entry forms along with before and after pictures submitted by the end of this month. I have everything ready to go except for my after picture. I'm waiting for the last minute thinking that the extra pound or two in the next week might make a difference. I'm so silly.

I wish everyone a good day and let's make today and everyday count towards our future of health and body balance.....

Best wishes,
Cindy

Short note

2006-06-15T11:53:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

Wanted to post a short note to let everyone know that I continue on track. Thank goodness. I'm on my second five day break from the para-cleanse, scheduled to begin third phase on Saturday. System has been slightly upset today, my fault. I ate a bowl of ceral earlier today for a meal and that was a big, big mistake. Apparently the sugar in the ceral has done a real number on my system and I'm paying for it in a major way (I think I may have found an alternate way to cleanse, athough I do not recommend it - nausea is right up there with a tooth extraction!.

I leave for Greenville, SC tomorrow for an Expo presented by Carolina Wellness Association. Dr. Pederson will be there and my questions are in place and ready. Most of these have to do with the six month break. I just love being able to take my questions straight to the source.

I may have a chance to write later this weekend, but maybe not. Just know that I am back to 31 off and feeling pretty good about this program. This is truly a program that is forgiving and works well in a normal lifestyle.

Good luck to all that are working along with me. As a side bar, I found out a couple of days ago that it will take our brains 3 years (3 YEARS) to acknowledge our bodies weight reduction. No wonder I'm not seeing any improvement in the mirror. Yikes! 3 Years. Hang in there and as someone famous says "Let's Get 'er done".

Love you all and really appreciate your support.

Happy Father's Day to all the Dad's,
Cindy

Hopes, dreams, desires.......and the importance of setting a goal

2006-06-12T10:16:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

It's been a few days since writing. Quite frankly, you could probably tell from my last entry that I haven't necessarily been in a good place for the past few days. In the past two weeks, I've experienced frustration, anxiety, inability to stay focused, sabotage (both my own and others), frustration, lack of will power, resignation, and oh did I say frustration.....

So, today is the first day of a new beginning of direct focus. Since that's the case, let me bring everyone up to speed with where I am at this particular point in time. As of last Tuesday, the 6th, I had dropped 31 pounds. On the scales this am, I have put three of those pounds back on (frustration). I'm amazed that it isn't at least 10 pounds with the way I've been "eating" in the past few days. Oh well, that's another story that I'M SURE you do not want to hear. Trust me....

So, the good news. I'm back on track. I have the same determination as the beginning days back in place. I am focused. Oh, and this weekend, I tried on a dress that I have not been able to wear since 2000 and IT FIT. Thank goodness, because it is the dress that I plan to wear in Greenville, SC next Saturday at the event being held there. Oh, and this is the neat part. One of my goals was to be able to drop enough weight to be able to wear this dress to this event, and I succeeded in accomplishing my goal with a week to spare! How great is that !!!

My goals are what have kept my going, even when the dark, bad days arrived. Everyone, if you have not set any goals with this program, please write down at least one or two before you go to bed tonight. It could make the difference between success and the lack of success. It's just like in the Ignition Sequence Guide when you're asked to write down your why on page 3. This is so when the going gets rough, you can refer back to this and get all fired up again. It's also so your upline can know your why so they can push your buttons when you need them pushed (with affection of course :) ). Anyway, the point I'm trying to make is that without my goals in place, I may very well have lost my way so completely in these past couple of weeks that I wouldn't have been able to find my way back to where I needed to be. With my goals clearly stated (and written down!) it wasn't as difficult to remind myself just why I was doing what I am doing. Thank you Carol for explaining to my all those years ago the importance of a strong and valid "why". Okay, so I'm back on track. I am now down 28 pounds, and here is some more personal information. When I began this program I was wearing a size 24 dress, 2X in slacks and tops and they were not necessarily comfortable. The dress I put on Saturday is a size 18 and is comfortable. (Insert happy dance here!). I'm continuing to wear my 2X slacks and basically tell everyone I'm wearing my pajamas because they are flowy and very very loose. I'm wearing a large top now (haven't done that in years), but frankly have not been shopping for clothes so I'm also wearing the 1X and 2X tops; again with the pajama look - flowy and very very loose. It's really difficult to look as if I've dropped any weight, because the clothes are the same and they were always meant to hide the "big". BTW - I really really need this new wardrobe. I know so many folks that are saying the same thing. You know what? I'm sure I will always thank the folks at Nikken for providing this opportunity, but frankly, they got me into this mess (showing up everywhere in pj looking clothes) so I think they should help get me out of it. Don't you agree?

Well, I just wanted to check in and let everyone know that I'm around, kicking, and regaining lost ground and more. I've had some great feedback regarding headaches, exercise, and more and I thank everyone for their caring comments.

Let me leave you with this..... Happy Dance for smaller clothes fitting ---- Happy Dance for focus ---- Happy Dance for accomplished goals ---- Happy Dance for my Nikken Family

You're all the best!
Cindy

Once Upon a Time.....

2006-06-06T13:14:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time there was a girl.

She went through her entire life knowing there was someone inside her that was struggling to be heard and seen, but not knowing how to bring about the change that would introduce this person to the world. You see she was trapped inside a very large body with what seemed to be no way out. She tried so many different "diets" and "remedies" and "weight loss schemes". Each time she would loss a few pounds and then gain back everything she had lost and a little extra for good measure.

All through the teenage years she struggled with dating (not much dating, usually ran with a crowd), as a young adult she struggled with her self esteem, where she fit in and how she was perceived by others. Don't let anyone tell you that weight doesn't matter, because the world's interaction with a svelte, shapely person is most definitely different that the world's interaction with an overweight person. Frankly, been there and I know first hand....

As an adult, she came to terms with the "fact" that she was destined to live her life as an obese female and became determined to not let this stop her from what she wanted to do (within reason, of course). Knowing that she would always face the closed doors of not fitting in or of not being "appropriate for [whatever] and that the stereotype of a fat person would always be there she tried to make up for it with dressing "up" all the time (even in a setting of casual), pushing to be the "best" at whatever she tried, looking for that area that would help her to define herself. It was a constant struggle and very draining....

Then along came Nikken. She was as heavy as she had ever been in her life. She was not in the best of health. She lived in an environment that was not conducive to positive thinking and pushing one's self for better things. She had learned to accept what she was dealt in life and to make the best of it. She was not happy. She was not satisfied. She knew there was something "out there" that she was missing, but she couldn't see it and didn't know where to look for it. She was lost.

She grabbed Nikken with both hands and held on for dear life. She didn't know why. She was told to let go, that this was a farce, a scam, a pipedream that would end up costing her everything and she better listen before it was too late. She held on for dear life.

For years she held on, not knowing why. She used the products and technologies. She shared with others, when they would let her. More times than not, they didn't want to hear anything about her new found interests. Her family, would politely listen, smile and gently change the subject. Her friends were becoming more and more those of Nikken. There was a support structure in place. This felt new and wonderful and was a gift that was not anticipated. She continued to hold on, to listen, to learn, to watch those around her, picking up what she could, when she could.

Then along came Body Balance. A light went on. All of the other technologies had always worked, so why shouldn't this. Realizing that she was her own worse enemy, she made a committment to herself; "I will do this and I will succeed". She realized early on that the way would be difficult and that there would be good days and days that weren't so good. Still she understood the prize at the end. This is her way to finding that voice inside her that has never been heard. Don't give up, don't ever give up..... and don't let anyone ever take your dreams away from you. They are precious and they are important.

The end of this story is still being written. I'm sure you knew from early on that the girl is me and I continue to "write" my story.

Today is 6/8/06. I have shed 31 pounds. Of this I am very proud. I will measure myself again on 6/21/06. I honestly cannot say if the measurements will be any different from last months. You see, the end of May and the beginning of June have been difficult for me. I've known from day one that at some point I would realize that the program was working and the sabotage would begin. I am fighting a good battle and the damage has been minimal. No weight has been added back, yet the weight is coming off at a high price. Each day is a struggle to continue with this wonderful program. I look in the mirror and don't see someone who has shed 31 pounds. I see someone who does not look as if 31 pounds are gone. Frustration sets in. The hunger is there. I've had headaches this week and have not been able to tell if this is from an imbalance in what I'm not eating and should be or if weather patterns (the changing weather patterns will cause pressure and thus a headache in the "worsed" of times) are the factor. I expect alot of myself. This will work, it must. To have this program is a blessing and I will not squander it.

The next few weeks should shape the rest of my story. I tell myself that each day is a new day. Do not think about yesterday and do not worry about tomorrow. Simple concentrate on the moment at hand, do the best I can with what I have and "everything will work out as it should in the end". (I love that quote).

I know it isn't fair to ask, that there are so many of 'us' out there that need the same encouragement and words of faith, but I'm going to ask anyway. The encouragement and support that I have received so far have been instrumental in keeping me on track and held accountable to myself. Please, keep me in your prayers as what I consider to be my most difficult time has begun.

I'm saying a prayer of encouragement for all of "us" that we will be strong and continue with the good results we have shared to this point.

Warmly,
Cindy

Recipes we can use to add variety to our shakes

2006-06-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

I'd like to thank everyone who has contributed to the sharing of recipes for our body balance shakes and to Martha Herring for putting them together in such an appealing and professional manner. Martha has taken the time to format these recipes into recipe cards complete with graphics. They will make a lovely addition to anyones recipe collection. The recipes will not be in their beautiful format on this site; however, if you would like to receive a copy of the recipe cards, drop me an email and I will e-mail them along to you. I hope you all enjoy these recipes as much as I know I will! I need to share one word of caution at this point. Please remember that anytime we add "extras" to our shakes, we are adding carbs, fat and calories that could ultimately derail our main goal of reducing weight.

Raspberry Cream Smoothie
1 cup orange juice; ½ frozen banana chunks; 1 cup frozen raspberries; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Raspberry Sunrise Smoothie
1 cup orange juice; 1 cup of frozen raspberries; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake;Pour all ingredients into q smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec,then on high until smooth.
Strawberry Lemon Surprise Smoothie
1 cup Lemonade (no sugar-unsweetened) can use splenda; 1 cup frozen strawberries;2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake;Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec,then on high until smooth .
Berry Blast Smoothie
1 cup apple juice; 1/2 cup of frozen strawberries; 1/2 cup of frozen raspberries; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Strawberry Banana Smoothie
½ cup frozen strawberries; 1/2 cup of frozen banana chunks; 1 cup of non fat skim milk; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla or Choc.Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, rhen on high until smooth.
Peach Blackberry Smoothie
1 cup fat free skim milk or soy milk; 1/2 cup frozen peaches; ½ cup frozen blackberries; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Pineapple Tangerine Smoothie
6 frozen tangerine, tangelos or mandarin orange slices; 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks; 1 cup of skim fat free milk or soy milk; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla or Choc.Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Peach Refresher Smoothie
1 cup of frozen peach slices; 1 cup of non-fat skim milk; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake;
Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Orange Banana Cream Smoothie
½ cup of skim non-fat milk; ½ cup of orange juice; 1/2 tsp vanilla; ½ cup frozen banana chunks; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Pina Colada Smoothie
5 Tbs of Coconut Milk; 1cup pineapple juice; 1/2 cup frozen pineapple chunks; 1/2 cup frozen banana chunks; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Smart Smoothie
2 Tbsp ground golden flax seeds; 1/2 cup of frozen fresh fruit; 1 cup of soy or low-fat skim milk; 2 scoops of Body Balance Vanilla or Choc Shake; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Mango Delight
1 c. skim Milk; 1 frozen mango; 2 scoops Body Balance Vanilla Shake; 3 packets Spenda; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Tropical Mango
1 cup skim milk; 2 Scoops Body Balance Vanilla Shake; ½ cup frozen mango; ½ cup frozen pineapple; 1 tsp. coconut extract; 2 packets sweetener; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Berry Berry
1 Cup skim milk; 1/2 to 1 cup frozen mixed berries; 2 scoops Body Balance Vanilla Shake; 2 packets sweetner; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Peanut Butter Delight
1 Tbsp. Peanut Butter; 2 Scoops of Body Balance Chocolate Shake; 1 cup soy or low fat skim milk; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Cinnamon Surprise
1 Cup low fat Vanilla sow milk;Cinnamon to taste; 2 Scoops Vanilla Body Balance; Pear or apple; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Chocolate Banana
1 cup skim milk; 2 scoops Body Balance Vanilla Shake; ½ frozen banana; 6 Ice Cubes; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Almond Vanilla
1 Cup skim milk;2 scoops Body Balance Vanilla Shake;1 tsp. Vanilla extract or 1 TBSP. flavored coffee creamer or 1 TBSP. Coffee flavoring; 6-8 Ice Cubes; 2 packets sweetener; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.
Coffee Frappacino
1 cup skim milk; 2 scoops Body Balance Shake; 6 to 8 frozen coffee ice cubes (or any flavor);2 packets sweetener; Pour all ingredients into a smoothie maker/blender on low for 30 sec, then on high until smooth.

Note: You can use any Sugar Free Coffee Flavorings. I use the brand “Torani” Sugar Free; here is a listing of some of their flavors.

Torani Sugar Free Flavors

Sugar Free Almond

Sugar Free Almond Roca®

Sugar Free Black Cherry

Sugar Free English Toffee

Sugar Free French Vanilla

Sugar Free Hazelnut

Sugar Free Irish Cream

Sugar Free Lemon - NEW!

Sugar Free Peppermint - NEW!

Sugar Free Raspberry

Sugar Free Strawberry

Sugar Free Vanilla

Sugar Free Vanilla Bean - NEW!

Sugar Free Watermelon

Sugar Free White Chocolate

Be creative and make your favorite Body Balance Drink. These flavors can be found in the coffee section of your supermarket or specialty coffee shop.

I hope everyone enjoys these recipes and again, thank you to everyone who contributed to their creation. You have certainly helped alot of folks with variety and creativity!

Happy shaking!

Cindy

Checking in.....

2006-05-31T08:43:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

There's so much going on that it's hard to fit in all in a day. I love it when it's busy like this. I have found that I work better under pressure. I think it's because when there's plenty of time, I tend to put things off. I never thought of myself as a procrasinator, but oh well, let's just say I like to keep things moving and LOVE to stir stuff up a bit when ever possible. Trouble maker? Of course not, just love a good debate.... (especially when I have all my facts and I'm right!). Now where did that come from?

Well, I didn't weigh in yesterday because it was the first day after a weekend. I've learned early on that the weekends are my weak spot. (No structure). I'm working on that, but have a ways to go before feeling good about anything I've put into action so far. I did weigh in this am and I'm down 29 pounds. You know how you can just tell that the scale wants to dip a little lower, but it just isn't quite there yet (come on, you know what I mean), well, I'm so close to dipping to that next number, it could make me crazy. I'm looking forward to the next couple of days, cause I figure I'm close to reaching another marker in this journey.

Very exciting news! Yesterday, I wore a pair of capri's that I could not get on in March. Not only that, they are loose and very comfy to wear. The guys out there may not think that's a big deal, but let me share a little tidbit of female bonding news with you..... THAT'S A VERY BIG DEAL! You will earn many, many points with your female counterpart if the next time she remarks about some item of clothing fitting better, you show encouragement and delight (with her!) Many, many points.

Should you choose to show no interest or look confused at her news, sorry, but you've just missed a very important boat.

I want to thank Char Rogers. She and I had a wonderful conversation last evening and she has a wealth of very valuable information, both in the area of nutrition, suggestions for smoothing some of the rough edges of this journey, and in general with encouragement and motivation. Once I have all my thoughts collected and organized from the time we spent together, I will be posting many of the very pertinent ideas she so generously shared. I met Char last year at our annual MLM Boot Camp event. She jumped right into the mix of things and the time spent with her was invaluable. Right away I knew that she was someone very special and she has continued to demonstrate just how much of a delight she is to be around at every opportunity.

Today is the last day of my first five day break from the para-cleanse regimen I'm on. Tomorrow, I begin cycle two, which is another ten day stretch.

Of note, I do want to take a few minutes and talk about the "extras" that we adding to our meal replacement shakes. Please be very careful and look closely at the ingredients of anything extra you add to your shakes. I recently had a conversation with a dear friend who was becoming discouraged because she was following the program to the letter and instead of dropping weight she was gaining pounds. That can be detrimental to someone who is ernestly working a "successful" program. Once we began going through her routine, step by step, we discovered that she was mixing her shakes with skim milk and adding canned fruit (in it's own juice) to her shakes. I asked her to get the carton of skim milk and to look at the amount of sugar listed on the carton. It read 12 sugar. I also asked her to get a can of the fruit. It read 15 sugar. Ouch! You see, any kind of milk is loaded with sugar and quite frankly, my suggestion is to eliminate it from your menu. It is my belief that we don't need milk. Please, don't write to me arguing this point, because I understand that lots of folks feel strongly that we do need milk and they are certainly entitled to that opinion, it's just one I don't share. If you have a Food Lion in your area, take a look at the Food Lion brand of Non-dairy, non-fat creamer. It's in a blue carton and in a pint size. There is 0 sugar, less than 1 of carb, 0 fat, and 15 calories per serving. You can add this to your shake with pi-water and receive the consistency you are looking for without compromising the value of your shake. As for the fruit, try using frozen, fresh fruit, or fruit that is packaged in slenda. Be very cautious of fruits packed in their own juices, or lite juice. This will add unnecessary calories, fat and sugar. Any and all of this will slow down your progress and get in the way of your dropping the weight you're working so hard to shed.

I'll probably write again the end of the week. I'm looking forward to sharing that I've arrived at my next goal point (30+). Talk about a happy dance. The folks in my office suite won't know what's hit them!

Hope everyone is enjoying their last day of May. Take care...

Cindy

Answer to a question or two

2006-05-27T10:57:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon all,

I have received a couple of questions and since others may have the same questions, I'm going to post the answers here.

Vivian writes: I have a question, Cindy. Along with the Cleanse you are also using the Nikken Liver? What was the factor that made you add to your BB program. I am on the program also. Thank you.

Vivian, my hands began peeling. They were peeling alot around the sides of the fingers and on the palms. When Dr. Pederson was here I asked him if he knew what that might mean. Rather shyly, he smiled and said that this was an indication of the cleansing of parasites. I was horrified! Then others at the event spoke up and said they were experiencing the same. I should have felt better to hear this, but I didn't. Horrified is not strong enough a word. I was mortified. I could not stop thinking about "critters" dwelling inside me and being expelled. It's an awful visual. Anyway, Ann Jones (I've mentioned her before) was scheduled to delivery a presentation on the body balance program prior to one of our core previews. Since there had been so much talk in our area regarding parasites, she decided to concentrate on the area of cleansing and parasites. She tested each person individually for candida and parasites during this meeting. I fully expected to test positive for candida and wondered if any parasites would show up since Dr. Pederson had commented on them prior. I was pleasantly surprised to find that I did not have candida and equally dismayed to hear that I did have parasites and they had taken up housekeeping in my liver. I was ready to engage war that very minute. Ann can attest to the fact that I wanted to visit her shop right then and begin the extermination process.

Ann did suggest that I take the liver as that would help to promote a strong and healthy liver during this time period. I have been doing just that. As I had already begun a regimen of probiotics (for candida) prior to beginning the Para-Cleanse, Ann suggested that there would be advantages to continuing with it. That was fine with me. The more I can hit them with the better. I want them GONE.

So, my daily regimen is as follows:

Up at 4:15 am. Prior to leaving for work I take my frut/veggie capsules and one script. Arrival at work at approx. 5: 30 am. I take the para-cleanse as soon as I get there. 30 minutes later, I take the burn. Around 7:30 I fix my breakfast shake. After the breakfast shake, I take my second script (must be taken with a meal). Mid morning, if desired, I take my rev up. 30 mins or longer before lunch I take the burn. I either eat a lunch or fix a shake, depending on how I feel and what I have going on at the end of the day. Mid afternoon, I try to take a rev up, but usually forget until it is too late in the day. I need it around 4-5 pm, but that is too late to be taking it. Small issue, but I'm dealing... Just before leaving from work (around 4-4:30) I take my para-cleanse. Once home, I fix either a meal or shake depending on what I've done for lunch. On day's that I'm able, I head to the gym directly after work. Otherwise, it's to a meeting or running errands. I'd like to begin winding down around 7 and by 8 I want to be home and beginning the cool down process. As I rise so early in the am, my "bedtime" is 9 pm. Lately, this has been difficult to accomplish. This past week, I NEVER got to bed before 10 pm, which means I'm not getting enough sleep and the next day I can feel it. I really try for 9, but now I'm not tired at 9 and you know how we children can be when it's bedtime and we don't want to go to bed!

At bedtime, I take the body balance cleanse, wait 20 minutes, take the probiotics and last script of the day and then my head hits my pillow. Put my CPAP on and I'm gone.

The liver I take at some point during the day prior to a "meal". I also take lactoferrin at bedtime, as Dr. Pederson suggested this and I use the jade greenzymes in my shakes along with fiber. I have been reluctant to try the CIAGA again as the first time I tried this it caused my sugar levels to spike and I really did not feel very good at all. I believe this is because I was taking a big drink of it (straight) before leaving the house in the morning (on an empty stomach) and by the time I got to work, I would have the shakes and be feeling really, really bad. I'd do a finger stick and my numbers would be too, too high. I stopped taking it and everything returned to normal. I've thought about trying it later in the morning with my shake, but haven't made that committment yet. A little afraid of it....

I was also taking calcium at night before bedtime, for some reason stopped that and haven't started it back. Probably should. While on it, my nails, skin and hair were wonderful!

I received a suggest from Pat in Nevada who suggested the following... How to not go crazy while exercising? Give your mind something to do. I always remember Dave Johnson's advice: Where you will be 5 years from now depends upong the books you read, the tapes you listen to and the people you associate with. Well, I can't read a book while exercising. While I can meet some interesting people while exercising - it is a really good time to listen to a CD! Lead the Field and Pathfinder CDs are favorites. I can improve my mind and my body at the same time - and meet some great people on those CDs.

I think this was a marvelous idea. I have taken steps to do this and will let you know how it works. Thank you Pat.

Also, anonymous suggested aerobics classes! While this might be a good idea for some, I don't think I fit into this category. Let's just say that I got a double helping when certain female body parts were being distributed. Bouncing around is not my cup of tea... I tried jogging once and will never, ever do that again. Ouch!

Okay, I've asked before and I'm asking again. Anyone with some good recipes for changing up the shakes a bit, please post a comment and let me hear it. I'll include them in a posting so everyone can benefit and will really appreciate the input.

Cross your fingers. The weekends are my roughest time. I'm out of my structured week and all bets are off when at home with the sweets galore. I'm working a 11 hour day today at Duke and will not be home til tonight. That helps. I'm holding a Body Balance Workshop tomorrow afternoon so that will also get me out of the house. Getting through til Tuesday (the beginning of my structured work week) is usually tough. I'm holding my own so far, but I did binge one day last weekend. It was scary. Didn't gain any weight back (I was surprised), but the bag of Reese's cups (white chocolate on the outside) disappeared. (No, it wasn't full, but that isn't the point). As most of the women reading this know, at some point we all crave chocolate, well almost all of us. Last weekend was my weekend. It was like I was possessed. I asked Harry if he had a chocolate bar, thought that would be okay (HA) and he hands me a bag of the little cups. A little less than 1/3 full. He didn't get any back. The first five were really good. By the end, I was feeling pretty rugged. Haven't even wanted to look at chocolate this week. It's amazing that I didn't gain anything. The flip side of that is, image what I would have lost if I hadn't eaten that. Any suggestions would be appreciated on how to control and get past the chocolate cravings. Of note, Ann says the parasites are the reason for cravings and once they are gone my cravings for sweets will disappear. Talk about a cloud with a silver lining! Thank you Ann.

I thought I didn't have anything to say. Sorry for the length. I'll be posting again soon.

Happy Memorial Day and be safe,
Cindy

Two month update (as of 5/21/06)

2006-05-24T03:08:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

I want to apologize for this being a few days late. I didn't have access to a computer until yesterday and then time constraints would not allow me to be able to post this entry. Well, Sunday was anniversary day. Officially, I have shed 26 pounds and 22 inches! I am so greatful to the company Nikken and to everyone who has had a part in putting together and making available to us the Body Balance Program. When I think that without this program I would be exactly where I was two months ago, how much better I am feeling every single day and all the things I've done in the past two months that I would not have felt up to doing, I just have to stop and say a prayer of thanks. It is amazing to me that we are not all shouting this program from roof tops.

I read something this past weekend that explained alot about what I have been living for many many years and why it has been next to impossible for me to every rid myself of my unwanted fat. This is called the Obesity Cycle and can be found in Joanne Stapensea's booklet called "The Complete Guide to Nikken Nutritionals". "The typical North American diet is high in fats and toxins that, over time, accumulate in the liver and intestines. Once the liver and intestines become congested with fatty deposits and waste materials, nutrients can't be absorbed properly, and fats can't be metabolized. This creates what might first appear to be an oxymoron, but is actually a reflection of our overfed, but undernourished culture - a combination of malnourishment and obesity (overweight, but undernourished). This deprives the body of the nutrients it needs, and it responds by going into conservation mode - slowing the metabolism and conserving fat stores. This becomes a vicious cycle that ultimately leads to obesity. "

Wow, that really put everything into perspective for me.

The cycle goes something like this: High fat, high toxin diet leads to build up of fats and toxins in the liver and intestines - leads to reduced nutrient absorption and fat metabolism - leads to body slows metabolism and conserves fat stores - leads to hunger cravings and low energy - leads to high fat, high toxin diet.... and the cycle repeats itself...

Enter onto the scene the Body Balance Program. Through use of this program the above cycle can be broken. The Detoxifying Cleanse is used to clean and detoxify the liver and intestines (allowing the nutrients a clear path for absorption). The Burn will increase fat metabolism and calorie consumption. The shakes will provide balanced nutrition to conserve lean muscle mass. The Rev Up will add energy to offset blood sugar dips and craving.

Lately, I've been getting alot of individual emails from folks asking specific questions pertaining to the Body Balance Program. Through these emails and conversations I've been having with my Platinum upline Carol Riddick, we've decided to hold a conference call in the near future. This call will be open to anyone wanting to call in and ask questions about the body balance program, how I have encorporated it into my lifestyle and questions and suggestions taylored to your own needs. I'll send out the specifics for this call when it has been finalized.

So, now I begin month three. This is the final month of the Body Balance Contest for a new wardrobe. I will definitely be entering this contest. I believe this is what is called crunch time. Funny how so many of our "sayings" seem to be related to food (crunch). Anyway, I need to focus. With four weeks left til after picture time, I have a feeling I'm going to be a familiar face at my Center for Living gym. (I have found that I really, really don't like going to the gym. I get bored very easily and don't understand how someone can spend time on a machine pedaling or walking or doing anything over and over and over again with nothing else to do and not be bored out of their mind. I watch the other people, I pedal, I walk, I look at the clock, I watch the people, I pedal, I walk I look at the clock [it's only been 3 minutes!] Please, someone rescue me from this. How do you spend the quality time you need on the machines without going mad from boredom? Please, any suggestions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I want the exercise, I want the results from the exercise, but how do you endure the sheer boredom of it all?

Okay, didn't mean to go there.

I'll write again soon, promise,

Cindy

Last update before two month anniversary

2006-05-19T07:16:00.000-07:00

Good morning all (and it is a good morning!),

I'll be "officially" measuring in on Sunday. I'm very excited. I couldn't wait and did a preliminary measuring in a couple of weeks ago, so I know some of the progress that I've made, and it is truly wonderful!

I never, ever would have been able to guess that this is the progress I would have made in just two months. I'd say two short months but I've had so much going on that they haven't felt short.

The para-cleanse is working! I love Ann Jones. I highly recommend that if you have any indication that you might have parasites or candida that you get to an expert and find out if that is the case and learn what you can do about it. To think that all of this was going on and I had no idea. And to think that this is probably causing my elevated white count and if I had not been using the body balance program and staying alert to what was happening with this program I would have not be clued in and would now be under the care of a hematologist and then it could be anyone guess what I would be going through at this point! Again, I just love Ann Jones. If you would like to contact Ann regarding any of her services, you can reach her at 919-469-9533. She is truly wonderful.

I have now shed 26 pounds! Consider this. Since beginning the probiotic I had not shed any weight in almost 1 1/2 weeks. Now, I've been on the para-cleanse and I'm averaging a reduction of a pound a day! I realize the reduction won't continue at this pace, but I'll enjoy it while I can!

Yesterday, day 2 of the para-cleanse, I felt a bit under the weather, ran a small grade fever and ran out of steam by the end of the day. I slept like a baby last night, didn't wake up and didn't move all night long. Woke up this morning disoriented because I had slept so hard and since having my morning shake, I'm on top of the world. I may have to close my office door and do my happy dance again today. Don't you just love it!

I'm not sure if I've mentioned this before or not. I LOVE the beach. Today, in honor of summer and the beach, I'm dressed in a blue terry cloth play set with Tommy Hilfiger tennies on (you know, the kind with no heel in them). I'm ready to go for a stroll on the beach. Anyone care to join me. Ahh, life is good.

If you're wondering if this program will work as well for you as it is for me, all I can say is try it. What have you got to loss? A LOT! You won't be sorry.

I'll write again next week,
Cindy

More information on our one nutritious meal

2006-05-17T03:22:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

I have a few things to cover. I'll try to keep it short. First, I've heard some really good feedback regarding the one nutritious meal we are eating and want to share it with you. Thank you to Stacy for sending in this information.

Stacy says: "You must eat an adequate amount of food. For the average (not me or really most of us) 140 lb woman - a minimum of 1000-1200 calories per day is required to keep the body in weight loss mode, instead of fat retention mode. This goes back to the caveman days - in days of high food supply, the body would store the excess calories as fat. In days of famine, the body hangs on to the fat (as stores to maintain viability) and burns muscle. The powder contains only 130-140 calories per 2 scoop serving - if mixed with skim milk (80 cal per cup) - that is only 220 calories per shake or 440 for 2 meals - this leaves you with AT LEAST 560 more calories to consume that day. .....It all comes down to calories in, calories out, but you MUST eat enough that your body knows it is safe to give up the fat."

Also, be aware that whatever additional items you add to your shakes (ie, fruit) will add up in calories as well. Be sure to take all this into account when calculating what you have left to incorporate into your one nutritious meal!

On a lighter note..... I'm so excited. I was officially inducted into the prestigious society of the IASW last night. For those of you not familiar with this society, IASW stands for the International Association of Stool Watchers. I'm so proud. I began my para-cleanse this morning. There are six capsules with each dose. I take them at least 15 minutes before breakfast and before dinner (on an empty stomach) for ten days. Then I'll give myself a 5 day break. I will repeat this cycle three times. Therefore, it will take 45 days to complete the cleanse. Once completed, my pesky little critter squatters should be gone. I'll keep you posted! By the way, the capsules smelled a little like cloves. Interesting.....

I'm going back to the gym tonight. I haven't been in a week and I'm looking forward to getting back. My regimen will be 10 minutes on the reclining stepper, ten minutes on the treadmill, ten mintues using weights for my arms and ten minutes walking around the track. That may not sound like alot of a workout for many of you, but be assured this may completely do me in. Wish me luck, I hope I survive. My goal is to work up on the times from here, but I will have to see if I can make it through this workout first. I assure you I'm serious. There is nothing at this point in time that is "in shape" about me. This is a major undertaking.

I almost forgot. I have dropped another pound! First one in over a week. I was beginning to wonder. I have now shed a grand total of 24 pounds. Sunday is the 21st and that will be the second month anniversary. I will be posting new measurements within a few days. I'm excited about this as there have certainly been some changes.

Everyone have a great day and I'll be in touch again soon.

Regards,
Cindy

Be Good to Ourselves

2006-05-14T12:45:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all the Mom's out there!

During the past week, I've experienced frustration, amazing bursts of energy, feeling great, frustration, concern, excitement, anticipation, disappointment, resignation, determination and now it's Sunday and I'm tired. Looking back on the week, I can't really say I've accomplished all that much. I haven't shed any additional weight and I also have not gained any either. There is something to be said for holding one's ground. I have removed quite a number of inches and I believe this is just as important as the weight. So, there is progress.....I got to the Herb Shop in Winston-Salem yesterday five minutes after they had closed. I was on a mission to purchase Para-Cleanse, which is what Ann says I need to take in order to rid myself of my liver squatter(s). So, I'll be picking it up from Ann on Tuesday before our core preview.

Today is Mother's Day. I'm spending several days with my folks and Mom has cooked enough for a week of meals! She has cooked as if it were Christmas. I was in the kitchen with her for every step, but she gets into her rhythm and there just was not alot for me to contribute. (I did manage to help with snapping the green beans!) My brother and sister-in-law were to join us for dinner today, but Robert is sick and they did not come. I know my Mom was disappointed, but when you're sick, you're sick. I did enjoy being able to celebrate the day with my Mom and with it being just the three of us, it was very special!

A very timely message I want to send along today is to not stress out if you end up eating more today than you want or should. For example, we all ate a wonderful mid day meal (and yes, I ate too much) and I know without a doubt we will be eating supper tonight as well. Keep your perspective. Don't ruin your day in the name of feeling that you can't deviate from your weight management program or you're a terrible person. Please ALWAYS remember that this is a lifestyle and in order for success to be ours we must be able to be flexible, realize that there are going to be days where we deviate from the norm, and understand that today is very special and once we get beyond today's bonding, eating and fellowship we will return to our endeavors of weight management and goals. By keeping this in mind I believe we will all have a lovely day with loved ones, and not be too hard on ourselves!

I've been unable to get to the gym in about a week and I feel the need to go. It looks like Wednesday is going to be my first opportunity to get there (I go after work) as I am presenting at the core previews both Monday (Fuquay Varina) and Tuesday (Cary).

I hope you are all experiencing success in your programs. I'm ready for more weight to come off and it is getting somewhat frustrating that none has been shed in over a week (ever since I started the probiotics). Surely that doesn't have anything to do with anything, does it?

Anyway, have a great day and I'll be writing soon,

Cindy

Good news, bad news and a colony of critters (or as a subtitle..... The Lost Colony is Found!)

2006-05-10T03:30:00.000-07:00

Good morning,

Last night was amazing! Tuesday nights are when we hold our core previews in Cary, NC. Last night, prior to our preview, we had the honor of attending a nutritional briefing by our areas reknowned nutrition specialist, Ann Jones. She was terrific!

Various topics were discussed, but I will have to say that the topic of interest for the evening was probiotics. This, in large part, is due to the publicity that parasites have been receiving of late. Wih the introduction of the Detoxifying Cleanse portion of the body balance program, those nasty little critters have been the topic of many, many conversations. Who knew!

Well, as part of her program, Ann delighted everyone by performing muscle testing on each of us. There was good news for many, myself included and bad news for many, myself included. First the good news. It would appear that I do not have candida. Some in the room did, but not I. Now the bad news. It would appear that I do have a parasite and since I now understand that where there is "a" parasite, there probably exists an extended family (colony) of parasites; hence my reference to the lost colony. Upon further analysis, it appears my extended family has taken up residency in my liver. Was it comfort to me that others in the room shared my news? Not a bit. Ann and I will be conferring next week (I'm leaving town for a Mother's Day visit and will not be back until next week) to determine what is needed to evict my colony of critters. Hum, I wonder if my Mom realizes just how many are coming for dinner. Ooohhh, I am so grossed out. I simply cannot wrap my brain around the fact that there is something like this in my liver.....

It is my understanding that the probiotics I am taking (initally for the candida) continues to be good to take. Additionally, I will begin taking the Liver nutritional we have in our Nikken line. I'm continuing with the cleanse and have faith that Ann will be able to put together a terrific program for me to implement. I'll keep you posted on this.

I realize this opens up an entirely new line of conversation. As my knowledge of this topic is limited, the best I can offer is to advise anyone concerned that you too may be providing a safe haven for "critters" to seek out someone like Ann who can work with you to determine your needs and to help you figure out a course of action.

God bless Ann Jones and all the other Ann Jones' that are out there!

Come on Cleanse, don't fail me now.................

(and yes, my energy is continuing to run high....)

Cindy

Is it possible you're not eating enough?

2006-05-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

This entry is going to address some questions I've gotten recently regarding weight loss or more specifically, the lack of weight coming off.

I've heard from several folks who say they are following the program to the letter. They are using the shakes to replace breakfast and lunch and eating dinner. In most of the cases, a little weight came off in the beginning and now they are stuck on a weight and can't seem to go below it. I'm being asked for the exact "plan" of what I'm doing so that they can follow it. My concern here is that we're all different and my circumstances may not render results for someone else.

What I have discovered through these conversations is that I'm eating more than they are. Their dinner might consist of a salad and a protein. My lunch (I find that eating lunch and shaking dinner fits my style more often than not) might consist of a sandwich (without the bread), a fruit and vegetables. That sounds like alot of food, but eat smaller portions. My salad might consist of lettuce, cucs, peppers, onions, a meat of some sort, tomatoes and a small amount of dressing (your preference). I'm having to forego the dressing at the moment 'cause I'm staying away from vinegar. With that I might have fruit for a dessert. When we eat out, I have a meat, vegges and fruit, usually with unsweet tea to drink.

What I'm trying to say is that I believe some folks are not dropping their weight because they are not eating enough. It's the same message we've heard before about our bodies thinking we are starving it, so everything we do eat is stored instead of used. We've been conditioned to believe that in order to shed unwanted pounds, we must "not eat", "starve", etc. What I'm learning is that with this program, when we follow with all the components, we allow our bodies to have the nutrients needed to be satisfied for those two meals. Then, when we eat a nutrious meal for our one eaten meal that day, it allows weight reduction. When we don't eat enough, we cause our systems to revert back into starvation mode.

I'm not advocating eating fried foods, or sweets or foods with alot of fat or unnecessary "fluff". What I am advocating, is eating a balanced meal and allowing yourself to feel satisfied (not over satisfied, but just right). When I've done this, I find the pounds seem to melt off. When I don't eat enough in a day (I may not be hungry!), I find the weight doesn't melt off.

Also, since beginning the probiotics, I've noticed that my weight has not changed much. I'm holding at 23 pounds shed. What I have noticed is that the inches are disappearing and my energy level has shot through the roof! I cannot believe the amount of energy I have today. If this is what healthy folks have been feeling like (and I've been missing all these years), I've got alot of catching up to do. I'm eager to see if the energy level maintains. If so, I'm going to have to figure out how to harness it and channel it productively. I know you're going to laugh, and it is funny, but here goes. I had so much energy this morning that I pushed my door at work to, turned the radio up a little louder and danced around my office. I cannot believe the difference in the way I feel! Thank you, thank you, thank you.

We'll talk later,
Cindy

On a personal note.....

2006-05-07T04:57:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

It's been a few days since writing anything in my blog. There are reasons for that. I've been struggling with what I wanted to say versus what I feel I needed to say versus what you might want to hear or not hear. If you think you're confused, imagine how I feel.

I've decided to get rather personal in this note. For those of you who would rather not read this, I understand, please skip to the next entry. For everyone else, my decision to "get personal" is based on the emails I've been receiving and the fact that I believe there are folks out there that just might benefit from these notes. Here goes.....

This has been a week I hope I don't ever have to repeat! As you've read, I went for my annual physical on Monday. Basically, it was a good visit, with exceptions. First, the breast exam. Two suspicious areas were noted. Now what really aggrevated me was that every single year I've gone for a mammogram, except I skipped last year. Why did I skip last year? Because my PCP suggested that since I was under 50 years old, did not have a history of breast ca in my family and all my previous mammograms had come back okay, it would be fine to have a mammogram every other year instead of every year, my choice. So, with this good advice, I opted to not have one last year. Well, this year, there are "suspicious" areas and it's been two years since testing. Needless to say, very aggrevated. I scheduled the mammogram for Thursday and had to wait three days. Thursday, I went in for three hours of testing including an ultrasound and I'm happy to say everything is fine and there is nothing to worry about. Prayers are answered. My message here is: HAVE A MAMMOGRAM EVERY SINGLE YEAR AND DON'T LET YOUR PCP TALK YOU OUT OF IT!!!

Okay, back to Tuesday. I'm chewing soft gum and suddenly it crunches. Soft gum does not crunch. Okay, it does when part of a filling and tooth have broken off. Great! I call and get an appointment for Wednesday to have my tooth repaired. Luckily, it's superficial, no pain and doesn't show.

Wednesday, I get up knowing I have a full day of meetings, a dental appointment, I haven't had my mammogram yet and I'm feeling a headache coming on. It has the indications of a bad one. I take something to help ward it off and jump in a very, very hot shower in the hopes of it being gone when I get out. No such luck. Out of the shower and now my head is throbbing and I'm nauseous. I dim the lights in the bathroom but by the time I finish my morning toiletries, the migraine has got me. I crawl back into bed and pray it goes away by mid day. Hah! By 9 am it's full blown and there goes my entire day! My dental appointment is at 3 pm and by then I'm so nauseous I can't sit in the chair. We reschedule for Friday at 8 am.

Thursday, the migraines gone, left with some facial tightness, but nothing I can't work with. At 7;30 I'm at work and I get a call. Do I realize that when I pulled out of the driveway this morning, I left a 18" spot of brake fluid where my back passenger tire had been sitting and then trailed it all the way up the street? No I didn't, but I guess I do now. So, I call the Midas shop and talk with the technician. We decide that if I'm really careful, the brakes will probably last for me to get home that day, to the dental the next am and then take it directly to the shop. (There it now sits waiting for a part). So, the mammogram is now behind me.

I get back to work from the mammo to find a voice message from my PCP. This can't be good. She has NEVER called me before. And it's not. My lab work has come back and my total WBC count is 13,000. For those of you who don't understand this, that's high. It should be around 4,000 to 7,000. She wants to send me for a hemotology review. I worked in Radiation Oncology for 7 years and I understand what this means. Wait a minute, let's slow down and talk about this. As I recall, my total WBC count has been high for the past several years. Since 2004 it has run ~11,000, 12,000 and now 13,000. So, it's climbing a little each year. Also, every year I have tried to talk about the fact that I believe I have candida (yeast buildup in the body). This is the first year that we have discussed options to address the candida (other than my PCP's suggestion to eat yogurt everyday). Tuesday evening, I purchased probiotics and began taking them Wednesday. Conversation outcomes are that I'm going to take the probiotics for two weeks and go in for repeat blood work on the 15th. From the many professionals I've talked with in the past couple of days, it is very possible that the candida has been causing my elevated white blood cell count and the probiotics will help to address this. This is my message to everyone who is relating to the dialog: If you have health concerns or any other medical concerns, don't put them off, make your PCP address them with you. Hopefully, when I return for repeat blood work my numbers will be down. In the four days since beginning the probiotics I can tell an amazing difference in how I feel.

Friday, I'm up and at the dentist by 7:45. Good news, it is superficial and he's finished with me by 9. To the Midas shop I go. Thank you for friends. A friend from work has offered to come and get me from the shop when I am ready to come to work and to take me to pick the car up at the end of the day. Friends are wonderful! So, it's 11:30, I'm at work and the shop calls. I won't bore you with the details, but the news wasn't good. Cross your fingers, if the part comes in I should be able to get my car back by Monday afternoon.

So, now it's Sunday, and nothing bad has happened since Friday. Maybe I've turned the corner and all the bad week is gone. Please, let's hope so.

Now for the good new! I couldn't wait for my two month anniversay. I measured myself yesterday. I'm not going to post the measurements til the 21st as I will take the official ones then, but the numbers are down and I'm thrilled. I will have to admit though. The past weeks stress did catch up with me on Friday and Saturday. Friday I ate chocolate and yesterday I ate meals, pleural. And that's okay. With the roller coaster I just came off of, if that's all the damage that's done, I feel I got through it without too much collateral damage.

Each of us will have to be our own judge and jury. Absolutely, I did not need the chocolate and I did eat it in a moment of frustration and feeling sorry for myself. Yesterday the meals were eaten while at home, outside of the structure of my week day routine and while I was again mulling through the rough week behind me. My support system was not in place on either Friday or Saturday and it showed. I'm just glad that was all the damage that was done. Today, I'm back on track.

I hope you toerated the long entry. I felt like this needed sharing. Again, if anyone has a system in place that is working, I'd love to hear about it. Exercises, recipes, suggestions for being outside our weekend routines (getting through the weekends are really tough for me).

I'm in the process of setting up some body balance workshops in my area. Would love to hear what has been working for you.

Take care and I'll write again in a few days.

Warmly,
Cindy

Current status and update from my PCP

2006-05-02T03:35:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

As of yesterday, I have now "removed" 23 pounds. Putting that into perspective, I am now where I was back in April of 2004. Now that does feel good!

I visited my PCP yesterday for my annual check-up. This is the first one I can remember not dreading in a very long time. Not because of anything bad that happens. It's just that it always seemed to be the same thing... you need to loss weight, your BP is in the high normal range and we need to get that down a little bit, your H A1C is too high and we need to get that down a little bit, etc, etc, etc.....

Yesterday was different, my BP is now 120/80, the best it's been in quite a while (I'm working on the 80), my H A1C continues at 6.2, although it has come down a bit and I think the best news of all was that it had not continued to climb, my T was 100.3, which means that I am indeed thermogenic (I thought that was interesting and certainly had to do some explaining for everyone to realize that 100.3 was okay and that I wasn't sick!, my finger stick was 107 (excellent) and without going into the specifics of the rest of the exam, all is good (almost).

Dr. Cheren took a very close look at the BB program (I took in all my materials and the box of goodies itself). She has commented in the past regarding the regular supplements and nutritionals I take from Nikken and thinks "someone" has done a very good job of putting the products together without adding alot of unnecessary "stuff" that she would not want me to be taking. So, after asking quite a few questions and carefully reading all ingredients and contents, she said she thought that this also was a very good program, did not see anything she would not want me to be taking, liked the results I had rendered so far, asked me about my long term goals with respect to the program and gave me the go ahead to continue with the program!

In my last entry I mentioned that there were some foods I would be eliminating from my diet. I've had some questions as to why I'm doing this. Specifically, I have a buildup of yeast in my system. This is another topic that was discussed at my drs visit yesterday. I repeated the suggestions that Dr. Pederson had made with respect to this and along with his recommendations and Dr. Cheren's recommendations (which virtually coincided I might add), I now have a plan of action. So, in order to rid myself of the candida I have and have apparently had for quite some time I will be doing the following: eliminating from my diet such items as vinegar, sugar, dairy, fat; taking the cleanse each night, taking lactoferrin each night and possibly again during the day, taking a pro-biotic, which I will be purchasing tonight from Ann Jones at her Health Food Shop in Cary, NC (little plug there for a friend and colleague).

I may be wrong, but it's my understanding that once the candida is eliminated, the weight reduction will pick up in pace. This is a factor in not being able to reduce at a quicker rate. If anyone has any information on this, I'd love to hear it. Thanks.

So, I've gone through my closet and pulled out all the clothes that I haven't been able to wear in the past couple of years and I now have some "new" outfits. This is fun!

With respect to long term goals, I've had a few folks ask lately how far I wanted to go with this. That got me to thinking about where I wanted to be. You see, up til now I hadn't thought about the end result, because frankly I've never been in a position before where the end result was a possibility. While I realize this is a very long term end result, ultimately I plan to reach a happy weight of 130-140 pounds. That's going to be alot of weight removed from this frame and I'm really excited to see the outcome. I can remember having a GP exam me when I was 14 and his comments have always stayed with me. With respect to my body frame, I am in the small category. According to this doc, as an adult I should weight between 98 and 104 pounds. I always figured I'd have to be in the ground for a few months before that happened! Seriously.

I have no plans to work towards that weight. I'm thinking that 130 would be a good weight to strive for. I can remember weighing 150 ish when I moved to Durham in the early 80's. I think I was in a pretty good place then and I'm looking forward to visiting there again.

Keep the questions coming and I'll check back in a few days!

Fondly,
Cindy

Wow! What a night!

2006-04-28T03:51:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

We had an amazing night last night! Dr. Gordon Pederson was in town to speak before a group of folks on the topics of Why a Wellness Home is so vital to our well being and on our new Body Balance Program.

Prior to his talk a few of us had the opportunity to sit down with him and talk over dinner. Frankly, Gordon did alot of talking and I'm ashamed to say we didn't let him eat very much of his meal. We were able to ask many, many questions and since quite a few of them have been raised through this venue, I feel it is appropriate to share the answers here as well.

Specific to the Crave Control: Carve should be taken 30 minutes before you want it to begin working. It should be safe to take about every four hours, as you need it, but limit taking to 3 or 4 times a day.

Snacks: if we do get hungry and just have to eat something, stay away from products that are high in fat and stay away from dairy products (this was a surprise to me). Fiber is a good source for a snack. Also, something crunchy such as peppers make a very good snack. Apparently, they have peppers as snacks in the offices at corporate. Good snacks can also be found in veggys and fruits.

The cleanse can be taken, safely, every night. For a person who is 250 pounds or larger, it is okay to take as many as three a night. There is only 6% senna (spelling?) so there should be no worries about any habit forming properties in this product. I will be taking the cleanse every night probably for the next 6 months. Gordon said that in order to cleanse our systems of such things as parasites we will need to take the cleanse non-stop for at least three months. This is because of the reproduction cycles of the parasites and the length of time it will take to kill off taking into consideration their egg laying routines. Please, don't ask, just take my word for it. Yuck!

After our conversations last night, I will no longer be including in my diet such items as cheese (I love cheese and this is going to be tough), vinegar, sugar or milk. These are foods that my body is reacting to and by eliminating them from my meal programs, I will be allowing my system to heal itself and will be allowing the weight reduction to continue at a better pace. Thank you Gordon Pederson. Ann, I will be visiting your shop Tuesday before our wellness preview and as I can't remember the name of what I need to get, I'm counting on you to know what it is. Thanks!

Some folks have expressed a concern about sucralose being in the shakes. Well, Gordon addressed this as well. For several reasons, this continues to be the best choice. Apparently, there are certain ingredients in the shakes that bind to the sucralose and remove it from our systems before it can be absorbed. Fascinating. The shakes in the body balance program were designed for the diabetics and pre-diabetics amongst us. BTW, anyone who is 20 pounds or more overweight is considered pre-diabetic. I didn't know that! If you don't want the sucralose in the shakes, the Perfect Start Plus will continue to be available. This has the same amount of protein as the BBP shakes and doesn't use sucralose (splenda).

We should be drinking at least 10 glasses of pi-water a day.

The burn will raise our core temp one degree. You can tell if you have become thermogenic by taking your temp. If your temp is one degree warmer than normal for you, then it is working. This causes our muscles to have to draw from our fat resources in order to keep us warmer. This burns our fat and thus weight is reduced. Viola!

I had to leave last night before we were finished with the Q&A. Getting up at 4:15 am comes early and I stayed until 9:40. So, as you can tell the room was buzzing with energy and everyone was so captivated that no one wanted the evening to end. If you were there last night and have anything to add to this post, please drop me a line and I'll be glad to pass it along to everyone.

I'm so excited. I will be putting alot of what I learned into practice today. I hope this helps at least a little bit.

I know there is something I've left out that I wanted to say. When I think of it, I'll add it to the bottom of this post.

Yal have a great day and I'll be in touch.

BTW, I've lost another pound. Get a mental vision of where you want to be in 6 months and hold onto that in your mind's eye. This is a motivating factor when deciding if you really want that extra helping or not. I choose NOT!

Happy Friday!
Cindy

20 and Counting

2006-04-27T03:13:00.000-07:00

This last pound was tough. Finally, I'm at 20 pounds off. I was beginning to doubt myself. I'm also confused. I actually drank 2 shakes yesterday and ate one meal and also had one snack. So, more food than usual, and dropped the pound. Go figure.

As with all the other times I've "tryed" to drop weight, I'm micro-managing. I'm analyzing every move I make. This is with me at every junction of my day. I'm wondering if this is normal. This is very important to me, but am I making it too "big". You know what I mean? Also, is it possible to eat too little food with this program? Let's say a person drinks the two shakes each day and doesn't eat enough food at their meal, will the body think it's not getting enough again and hold onto what it does take in instead of burning it, or will the burn tablets and shakes take care of that situation?

I've heard from folks that taking the crave will help with wanting to eat between meals. Any suggestions on when is the best time to take the crave?

I'm not sure I mentioned this before, but there is a wonderful side effect to this program. I've been experiencing hot flashes (I like to call them my "personal summers" )for several years now. We start early in my family, truly. Well, since being on this program, my persoanl summers are gone. Not only that, I've actually experienced being chilly a couple of times in the past month. I haven't been chilly in years! I think that's pretty cool! Pun intended!

Okay, I'm going to set a couple of goals here for the next month, well at least til the 21st of May, which will be my two month anniversary. I dropped 19 pounds the first month. I'm not expecting to replicate that this month, but I will work towards another 11 pounds gone. That would bring my total off to 30. Also, I'm going to continue with the gym visits, at least twice a week and I'm beginning a journal of exactly what I'm eating, when and how I feel when I eat it. I know, it kind of sounds as if I'm obsessing over this, well I am. However, I need to figure this out and I can't help but think there must be a system to this and it's just a matter of figuring out what my body's system is.

So, today is day one (all over again)

pre-breakfast: drink a quart of pi-water.

breakfast: vanilla shake with skim milk, 2 scoops of vanilla shake powder, mandarin orange slices, pi water and one scoop of fiber (crush with ice cubes)

between b'fast and lunch: another quart of pi-water

burn taken at 11:40, unable to fix shake until 12:30

lunch: chocolate shake made with 8 oz skim milk, 4 oz pi-water, 2 scoops chocolate, one scoop fiber, ice cubes, blend. Also cut up 1/2 cucumber to eat with lunch shake.

Will drink more pi-water this afternoon.

Dinner is at O'Charley's in Cary tonight with Dr. Gordon Pederson, Carol Riddick and others. I have my questions all ready to ask and I'm really looking forward to tonight!

Wish me luck and may my will power hold on for the rest of the day. My vision is to the future, 9/21/06 (six month anniversary) and what I will be wearing while at Holden Beach. Now that's motivation!

Til later.....
Cindy

I'm stuck

2006-04-26T03:15:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

Well, it's been 5 days since my last entry. I've had some really good conversations with folks in that time with some constructive suggestions. One of the requests I've had is to include recipes in my entries for everyone to try. I have asked anyone with a recipe they would like to share to please send it to me and I'll include it in my blog. Thank you for the suggestion. This request came from a conversation where we were talking about eating the same thing time after time and concern that when the same food gets boring, it's harder to stick with a eating plan. We all need variety and I'll share any recipes and suggestions I receive with everyone through this venue. Thanks in advance.

I haven't dropped any more weight. I haven't gained anything either. It's as if I'm just stuck in the same place. Has anyone else experienced that? I would have thought that continuing with the same program, the weight would have continued to decline, but I haven't dropped any this week. Any suggestions on what might get me jump started again? Surely it's too early for me to be getting stalled.

Another area I'd like to touch on is exercise. For us folks that are extremely overweight and have to take things at a slower pace to begin with and build up, does anyone have any specific suggestions on exercise programs? I'm continuing to visit the gym 2-3 times a week. I'm using the sitting stepper and want to begin using some weights to work on my upper arms. One piece of clothing that I absolutely will not wear is a sleeveless top. I would LOVE to be able to wear a sleeveless top in the summer time, but the upper arm area will have to undergo some serious renovation before THAT happens. Anyone have any suggestions? I would appreciate hearing from you. You can email me directly at crkey2@netscape.net. Thanks.

Okay folks, help me out here. I'm asking for recipes for shakes, recipes for meals both lunches and dinners and I'm asking for suggestions for exercises, both in general and for upper arms. I'd appreciate any input you are willing to offer.

If you have any questions, please send along as well. Your questions are going to help me as well as everyone else out there working to reduce to a healthy lifestyle.

I appreciate everyones support and together we'll make this happen!

Cindy

Anniversary Day is here!

2006-04-21T03:42:00.000-07:00

Good morning!

And a good morning it is. It's funny. I took my measurements this morning and then couldn't remember what the original set of numbers were. So, until I logged on this morning and compared the numbers with what was in my profile, I had no idea if they were better or not. I'll say they are better.

4/21/06 one month measurements:
Bust: 46.5 down from 49.5
Waist: 49 down from 49.5
Hips: 52.5 down from 55.0
Upper thigh: 28 down from 34
Upper arm: 15.5 remains at 15.5

This is showing a total reduction of 12 inches.

I am so thrilled. So, officially for one month on this program I have dropped 19 pounds and 12 inches. How cool is that!

I'm not going to make this a long entry today. I think I'll just sit back and let this sink in for a while. It really can be overwhelming. All I can say at this point is, drink your shakes, drink lots and lots of pi water, get as much exercise as you possible can - even if it's just a little and when you do eat solid food, make it a sensible meal that you would be proud to say you ate.

I hope every one has a great day today. I know I will.

Lots of love,
Cindy

One More Day to My One Month Anniversary!

2006-04-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon all,

Tomorrow is the BIG day! Friday I will take my one month measurements! Truthfully, I'm excited. This morning I noticed that I have the beginnings of a waist line. I thought, OMG, what is that, an indentation! Could it be? Yes, a waist! Now what am I going to do with that! The humor is there but seriously, I am now down 19 pounds. Tomorrow is one month and I'M DOWN 19 pounds. I'll say it again.... I'M DOWN 19 pounds. If anyone had told me a month ago that this was going to happen, I would have seriously said "you are crazy". I can't lose weight. Now, I'm not losing weight (because I don't intend to find it again), I'm dropping the pounds as I go along and I will NOT pick them every again.

I am constantly amazed at the change in my attitude towards everything as I go through my day. I'm happy, really happy. I feel good, the best in a long, long time. I feel more tolerant of what is around me. When I do eat my meal, by the time I am finished, I have a satisfied feeling and I believe I am eating to nourish my body and not just to eat a meal because it is time to eat a meal. There is a very, very big difference.

Because I realize that this one meal will be all the solid food that I consume until the next day, I am very careful about what I fix and how I fix it. I intend for the meal to be tasty, filling and not a waste of a meal. The planning of the meal is new for me. Before, I would throw something quick in a bag and off to work I go. Now, I'm planning ahead what my meal will consist of and what will be required to fix it. For those of you who know me, cooking is not something I do. A bowl of cereal is cooking. A peanut butter sandwich is cooking. Two eggs beat and "cooked" in the microwave are scrambled eggs and is cooking. So, is this foreign. You bet it is. That is why the request for meal ideas. If I continue eating the salad renditions that I have consumed this week, while they are very, very good, by the end of May, I will be absolutely sick of salads. I need to try something different. But not sure what. At work, which is where I do my preparation for lunch (the meal I eat) I have a kitchen consisting of a full size refrigerator, two microwave ovens, a coffee pot, a hot water dispenser, an aqua pour, a blender and a sink for washing up.

So, tomorrow is my big day! I'll be posting the updated numbers, probably both in text and in the profile with the original numbers. Then, I'll begin concentrating on month two and see if I can keep those pounds dropping off.

Also, Saturday, I'm holding my first Body Balance Clinic in Durham. How exciting to be able to stand in front of everyone with a smile on my face and tell the world that I've shed 19 (maybe 20 by then) pounds and how ever many inches in one month.

BTW, I spoke with my Mom the other day and she is down almost 10 pounds herself. She has been working in the yard planting rose bushes and sounds like she is feeling much much better. She is sticking with the program and I believe we are both going to come out on top this time. How wonderful is that!

Take care everyone and I'll be posting tomorrow,
Cindy

Wednesday, April 19, 2006

2006-04-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Good afternoon all,

I have a few minutes left of my lunch break and thought I would share a few thoughts with you. Finally, after a few weeks of working into a routine, I've hit on a system that is working for me. Also, in the next couple of days, I'm going to share some recipes that I have found to be very tasty, filling and extremely healthy.

So here's my current routine: I get to work at or before 6 am each morning. However, I don't take the burn or fix my breakfast shake until closer to 8 or 8:30. Up until that point, all I take in is pi water. This helps to bridge the day between breakfast and lunch. I don't know if others have noticed this, but with me I'm okay until something actually goes into my mouth first thing in the am. Then once the intake begins, it's like an automatic expectation that something else will shortly follow. I'm slowly creating the new habits that I need to cut back on the between meal feasting. Actually, this goes against most of what I've been taught with Adult Diabetes Training. The nurses that did my training and my PCPs in the past have always suggested that I eat 5 or 6 small meals a day and spread them out. Problem with that is that now I am in the habit of ALWAYS wanting to have food around and that isn't good either.

So, burn at 8:15 and shake at 8:45. It usually takes at least 30 to 45 minutes to drink the shake. Obviously, I'm doing work while I drink it and can sometimes get distracted. Would love to hear comments pro and con of drinking the shake while multi-tasking. We hear so much about focusing on what we're eating only while we're eating, but don't you think this is a little different?

Mid morning, which would be around 10:30 or 11:00 for me if I need a pick-me up, then I have a rev up. Truthfully, at this time, I'm still content and I'm finding that my quart + size container of pi water is all I want or need til lunch time. Around 11:30 I take my burn and around noon I'm fixing a light lunch to eat. This is consisting of (and I think this is absolutely yummy, especially this time of year!) a bed of baby spinach leaves, with cut up fresh cucumber, diced celery (something crunchy), a small handful of grape tomatoes, soy nuts sprinkled on top (another crunchy) and grilled boneless, skinless chicken tenders cut into very small pieces with light or fat free your fav dressing dribbled on top. Complete the meal with a SMALL chunk of cheddar cheese and a quart of pi water and man oh man is it good. For dessert, I'm cutting up fresh strawberries and sprinkling some splenda on top and having a small bowl of fruit. Believe it or not this is holding me until my dinner shake. If I do get hungry mid afternoon, I still have a rev up I can take, or I eat a quarter of a small apple or I have another small piece of cheese and I really am set for the day. I'm working on alternative recipes for lunch and would love to hear other suggestions. Today, I couldn't finish my lunch and left off the dessert. I'm really loving this!

Now, dinner is where the will power is having to kick in. At home, I'm fixing a shake, usually chocolate with not much in it. If I can get out of the kitchen without "snacking" on anything while I'm fixing the shake then I'm home free. So far so good. As I said, yesterday was fine and I'm expecting today will be to. It's after 3 pm now and I'm not in the least hungry. Thirsty, but not hungry.

Friday is the day for my one month measurements. I'm looking forward to this and dreading at the same time. I can feel that I've definitely made progress and there will be wonderful numbers to look at, and I'm hoping that I don't get disappointed if the numbers haven't come down like I want them to.

If you haven't noticed yet, I can be really hard on myself. I've been through the disappointments so many times, that I've gotten to the point that I'll let myself have it before someone else does. Well, yes, this time is different, I've already proven that. So, as I keep saying, the habits are changing, it will just take time.

Lots of thoughts. Sometimes without sentence structure, but you get the idea of what I'm trying to say.

Love to hear recipes for lunch from everyone and let me know what you think about doing something else while you drink your shakes.

Have a wonderful Wednesday,
Cindy

Tuesday am, April 18, 2006

2006-04-18T04:06:00.000-07:00

Good morning all,

This is going to be a particularly difficult entry to make. I haven't written in my blog since Thursday. Had every intention of writing on Friday, but never found the time, or rather never thought I had the time (may be more appropriate). So, how have I done since last Thursday? Absolutely awful!!!

It's truth time. My will power caved. On Friday evening I got it in my head that I wanted vanilla ice cream. (BTW, vanilla ice cream is really the only true flavor there is). So, I resisted and resisted and resisted and then caved in and had a vanilla milk shake. The first three or four pulls on the straw were really, really good and then a funny thing happened. It wasn't so good any more. By the time I finished with the shake, it didn't taste nearly as good as when I had started drinking it. You'll notice that I said "finished with the shake". I did finish it as leaving unfinished food on my plate is not something that I do. Another habit I need to cultivate. So, Friday was the beginning of a three day backslide. Saturday, I drank my breakfast shake, thinking I was back on track and then I'm not sure what happened, but by the time the day was over I had eaten both lunch and dinner. Neither meal was particularly "bad". Actually, both were healthy and nutritious, I just ate both meals. Then, on Sunday, Easter Sunday, the bottom fell out. I spent the day alone. It was a peaceful time, a day of reflection. I fixed and ate breakfast and lunch at home. I ate dinner out. Again, every meal was nutritious, it's just that I ate three meals in one day. Talk about miserable! Now, I will admit that on reflection, the amount that I ate at each meal is a fraction of what I was eating before. I just don't seem to be able to hold that much at one time any longer. But still, three meals in one day is some serious backsliding. What was I thinking? Honetsly, I was thinking something along the lines of poor pitiful me. Here it is Easter Sunday, I'm not with family, I'm home alone and I'm going to indulge myself. Too bad I couldn't think of a better way than eating.

Then came Monday, my day off this week. So, Cindy how did you spend your day off? Funny you should ask, my dear blog. I spent the day sitting in the waiting room of the Durham Midas shop having my front brakes replaced. Did they have a coffee machine. No, just really really bad coffee from behind the counter that someone else had to make for me(could not get the first cup down). I was not willing to leave until after they did the diagnosis on my car, so that I could be there when the news was ready and make the necessary decisions. Unfortunately, I ended up waiting almost three hours before they even took my car back to be looked at. So, I had had no breakfast shake before leaving the house. (Didn't think I would be gone that long.) I had no way to get a lunch shake, and the selections in the vending machine left alot to be desired. I did end up selecting and eating a trail mix meal bar and a pack of nabs. I filled my water bottle from the water fountain and drank water all day. I got home seven hours later at 5:20. Just in time to fix and eat dinner, which I did. It was a particularly good dinner, a pork tenderloin, some cottage cheese, applesauce and grape tomatoes. Drink of choice was pi water.

So, I weighed in this morning thinking that it was going to be terrible. Bad news: I didn't drop any additional weight since Thursday. No big surprise. Good news: I didn't gain any weight since Thursday either. Now that's astounding. This morning I'm back on track. I feel like I'm coming in off a roller coaster ride and getting settled back into a routine.

I've received voice mails from some of you and emails from others urging me on, encouraging me to not give in and to continue with the good work. Well, over the past three days, I have failed miserably. Today, I will pick up the pieces and begin moving forward again.

If anyone tells you this is going to be easy, run fast, because they will also try to sell you swamp land. There is absolutely nothing easy about this. For a few days, I allowed myself to feel self pity and to lose track of my goal. I'm back on track now, although I'm not sure I've learned anything from this. What I'd like to be able to say is that I understand where I went off track and that I have safe guards in place to help prevent it from recurring. The reality is, I'm not exactly sure what caused me to get off track. Anyone with any thoughts on this? It could have been a break in routine, the frustration of having a day when so many things ended up not going well (Friday was a day of disappointments, both in work and play) or it could have been for some reason that I haven't figured out yet. What ever the cause, looking back, these past three days were really messed up.

Okay, let's move forward. Today is the first day. I think I'm going to borrow a line from another program and put it into practice.

One Day at a Time

If I take it one day at a time, then today is the only day I need to think about and everything else will happen in it's own good time. Tomorrow, I will begin that day the same way and the day after that will be the same. Focus on today and I will be fine.

I'll write again soon. I hope everyone had a particularly lovely Easter. Sunday was an absolutely beautiful day.

Fondly,
Cindy

Thursday, April 13, 2006

2006-04-13T03:56:00.000-07:00

Good morning,

Yesterday turned out to be a very interesting day. All day I was looking forward to going to the gym and trying out a piece of equipment I had never used before (that in itself is very different for me as I'm not one that enjoys "exercise"). It's called a sitting stepper. Low to no impact so I can use it without worrying about hurting my back. I got there and the gym was practically empty. So far so good. I sat down on the machine and started trying to figure out how to use it. After a few minutes I started pushing buttons and entering information, like what is my weight. Why is it that everything wants to know what our weight is? Afterall that's what we're trying to get away from and here everything is bringing up that very number and putting it in front of us. Well, okay. I put my weight in and started pedaling. A few minutes later a very nice gentleman came over and sat down two machines away from me. We started a conversation and after a few minutes he started telling me about the machine, how it worked and what it would accomplish if I stuck with it. This particular stepper makes use of both the arms and the legs. So for a very long 7 minutes I pedaled my heart out. The results were not bad and I actually enjoyed it. So for another 13 minutes I pushed it down a notch and pedaled some more. This was my cool down time. I figured I wouldn't be able to move this morning but surprise, surprise, nothing hurts and I dropped another pound. Yeah me!

This evening I will be visiting a neighbor and her little dog (the Easter bunny left a basket for Freddie, [the dog] at our house and we're taking it to him tonight. Freddie gets the toys and Gwen gets the chocolate. Since we have no kids, Gwen and Freddie get the Easter goodies and tonight's the celebration night. Tomorrow night, I plan on visiting the gym again. This could really turn out to be a good thing!

Again, this am, I was amazed at how my clothes are fitting. I'm now wearing clothes that I couldn't wear three weeks ago and I now cannot wear clothes that I was wearing three weeks ago (too big). Not to worry, my closet has clothes in it that range from size 24 to size 8. I think there was a 2 day period of time back when I was 15 (another life time ago) when I got into the size 8. I've held onto it thinking that I would wear it again. Yes, I have been know to live in a fantasy world. Looks like I'm going to be buying some transition clothes. Thank goodness warmer months are here. Maybe I can get away with buying just a couple of things and mixing and matching. I certainly don't intend to buy much because at the rate this is happening, whatever I buy won't be in use very long either. This is so cool!

Some advice for the day. Drink lots and lots of pi water. If you feel the absolute need to eat a snack, I've heard zone "diet" snacks are good. I don't really know what those are, so I'm using strawberries, and protein such as a small piece of cheddar cheese or a little handful of cherry tomatoes. Also, I've begun cutting up an apple and using about a third to a half an apple for a snack. Definitely not the whole apple, as beleve it or not, that would be too much. I'm loving this!

Good luck to all. Make today a good day and let's push forward today and not take any backward steps!

Cindy

Wednesday, April 12, 2006

2006-04-12T04:44:00.000-07:00

Good morning Wednesday,

Wow! Alot has happened since Sunday! On Sunday, I was so excited because I had lost 11 pounds. I worked a 10+ hour day at the Hospital, which involved alot of walking. I also drank more water than I've been used to drinking. I've been told that I'm not drinking enough water.

Well, Monday morning I started out the day like any other Monday morning. At 9 am I participated in our weekly Leadership call. Afterwards, I picked up with my day. One of the promises I had made myself was not to weigh in every day. For the past week, I've been so excited at the daily progress that I've weighed in every day. So much for promises. Monday's are my day off from my structured "paycheck" job. This is the day I can do whatever I want to, whenever I want to. After the call, I decided to weigh in (of course) and have a shower. When I stepped on the scales my mouth dropped open. I got off the scales, checked them and got back on again. They were saying that I had dropped another 4 pounds - in one day! Impossible? Apparently not. Incredible? Absolutely! I can't ever remember doing that before. So, as of right now, I'm 15 pounds lighter. (shouts of joy!!!)

What happened next was completely unexpected. I got in the shower and before I knew it, I was crying like a baby. Not the little bit of crying, but the crying out loud, not able to stop kind. Where did that come from!!! I wasn't upset, I was happy. So what was this. I got myself together and started thinking about things. This is what I figured out. The psychological impact of this is much bigger than I anticipated. Think about it. I have spent my entire life (since age 3 - so that would be 45 years) struggling unsuccessfully with weight. I've spent my entire life in the body of a fat person, interacting with people as a fat person, being looked at as a fat person, functioning (or not functioning) as a fat person. What "diets" I have tried either failed miserably or were sabotaged so that they failed miserably.

What do I mean by that? Consider this. I know my metabolism is low. I know I've had hypoglycemia in the past, controlled and conquered with eating correctly. I know I have diabetes. I know that on some "diets" I've gotten sick, lost ALL energy, developed bruising all over my body, felt as if I had the flu and eventually given in and started eating as before. Some programs in the past have seemed to be working and all the sudden, events came up, food was present, there were all sorts of reasons/events that dictated eating at special events and loved ones would encourage eating. Intentional sabotage? Maybe. Unintentional sabotage? Maybe. Regardless, the fat person stayed fat and the comfort zone was not tested. The people around me who were comfortable with a fat person now felt secure again and I as the fat person felt secure in the fact that I knew the ground rules.

So, why the crying. Frankly, I cryed off and on all day long Monday. And still, when I get to talking about it I very easily begin crying again. What I have discovered is that this program is working. I'll repeat that. This program is working. In less than one month I'm 15 pounds lighter and continuing to drop the weight. I'm thrilled and I'm terrified. I've never been in a body that wasn't fat. I'm not going to know or understand (at first) any of the ground rules with regards to anything. Sure, common sense will dictate, but think about it. Every single solitary thing in my life is going to either change or be looked at through a different pair of eyes. Also, every pair of eyes will be looking back at me differently that ever before and the interpretation will be on a completely different playing field.

So, what have I done to stop the sabotage? Because let me tell you, typing that last paragraph is enough of a jolt to make a person stop and think about what they're doing... I've put my situation in front of alot of people, alot of SUPPORTIVE people. The accountability factor is huge and don't let anyone tell you that it's not. For me to fail at this point, will be witnessed by thousands of people, some I know and some I don't. Regardless, failure at this point is not an option.

This is going to require alot of self evaluation. What will my "new" life be like? What do I want it to be like? I've dreamed of this for so long and now thanks to the Body Balance Program, I'm shedding the pounds, I'm not feeling sick, I have more energy that I can imagine and I'm thinking of ways to speed up the process.

I joined the Center For Living Gym through Duke University Medical Center last year so that I would have access to an indoor pool. My back was in such bad shape I was missing work because there were days it hurt to much to move around. Walking and moving around in the pool helped. Well, for one "reason" or another I haven't been to the gym since last September. Today, I have my gym clothes in the car and after work I will be revisiting the gym. Not to use the pool, but to use the indoor track (walking), the treadmill, (walking) and another machine which I can't remember the name of, but is good for the lower back and promotes a peddling action low to the ground.

My goal is to visit the gym 3 times a week and to be sure to drink ALOT of water every day. By adding these practices to what I'm already doing, I'm hoping the process will continue.

Oh, I almost forgot! This is so cool! The week before the Pathfinder's Summit I had visited my folks. I took along quite a few of my clothes so Mom could help me pick out what to take on my trip. I have a pair of light green slacks that I purchased 2 years ago. They have been so snug that I could get them on, but breathing or moving was not an option. Thus, they had never been worn. I tryed these on at Mom's and they were the same. Much too snug to consider wearing anywhere.

I tryed these slacks on last night and THEY FIT! They fit COMFORTABLY! Couldn't believe it then. Still can't believe it today. Then I tryed on another pair of capri's that I had worn last year. These fit okay then, but the seam down the backside had pulled loose after several wearings. Mom, being the wonderful seamstress she is, restitched the seam so that they again were perfect. However, in doing this the slacks were a bit snugger and I realized I would not be able to wear them and sit down anywhere unless I "lost a few pounds". Story of my life. Well, last night, not only did they fit, they were almost too big. I wore them anyway! It felt great!

That brings up another issue I'm going to have to deal with. As I drop the weight I'm going to have to find different clothes to wear. Hummm, that $2500 wardrobe is looking more and more a necessity than a prize! Can't say that I've every won anything before, but the way I look at it, there has to be a first time for everything. Right?

I know this entry has been long, but I had alot I needed to say. I want to thank everyone who has written offering encouragement and suggestions. They are all very much appreciated.

I've posted a picture to my profile today. This is definitely a before picture and I will say it is a good picture (thank you Wanda for sharing it with me) but I can't believe I really look like that. I'm really looking forward to the after picture.

I just need to remember that little by little these baby steps I'm taking will become more and more comfortable in their own rights and I am improving not only my health but also my outlook on life as well.

Warmest regards,
Cindy

PS. A little trick to psych out our brains! I find that I'm missing the chewing of food. It never really mattered what it was, I just likeed to action of "eating". With the shakes, I'm missing that. So here's what I've done to counter that. Instead of putting the fruit in the shakes, I'm making the shakes plain and putting the fruit that would have been in the shake in a bowl. So, I'm drinking the shake and eating the fruit. Same outcome as I would have had with the fruit blended into the shake and I've gotten to "eat" something. Amazing how our brains and habits kick in and need to be pampered. Try it and see what you think!

Bye

Sunday, April 9, 2006

2006-04-09T10:11:00.000-07:00

April 9, 2006

Happy Palm Sunday.

It’s been a while since putting anything in print. I’ve been going through a number of different emotions and realizations and I’ll address those in a few minutes.

First, let’s get the formalities and updates taken care of. I’ve been on the body balance program since 3/21/06. To date, I’ve lost 11 pounds.

In all honesty, I was hoping to be further along by this point, especially with all we’re hearing about the ‘major’ losses from others. However, I will have to admit that without this program I would have those 11 pounds on me right now and to have them gone is a blessing. If I think about it honestly, as someone who struggles to even lose one pound, this is probably going to be a difficult road for me all the way to the finish line.

I won’t be updating any measurements until the 21st, which is the one month anniversary. I can’t really tell any differences in the way I look (that’s certainly depressing), but I can tell in the way my clothes are fitting. Slacks are not as tight fitting in the waistline and my tops and dresses are much more comfortable to wear. I feel as if I am carrying myself with a renewed confidence.

As I mentioned above, I’ve had several realizations and concerns so far. First, I am realizing and I’m concerned that my will power is lacking. That’s difficult for me to admit, as I consider myself an intelligent person and as someone with intelligence, if I decide to take a particular stand (such as following the body balance program) then it follows that having made that decision, I should be able to look at temptation squarely on and resist. HAH! I’m finding that the breakfast shakes and rev up mid morning DO NOT satisfy me and that around 10 am to noon I am really, really wanting something to eat; to the point where my will power just disappears in the face of ‘justifications’ such as: “One hard boiled egg isn’t going to hurt, or one apple isn’t going to hurt, or I’ll eat a salad for lunch and drink the shake for dinner and then dinner time comes and we end up eating out (and yes I do eat a very balanced and appropriate dinner, but that’s two meals for that day instead of one and that blows the entire day – maintaining instead of loosing). ARGH! What’s a girl to do?

So, yes, I’ve lost 11 pounds, but I’m greedy and I want more! I have a goal set to see how far along I can get by September and at this rate, I’m not going to have much success at reaching that goal.

I have found that talking with people, refocusing on the desire to lose the weight and refocusing on the commitment I have made along with hearing from others is a strong motivation for staying on track.

My second realization is that I’m not drinking enough water. Oh Lord, I’m already wearing a path in the carpet back and forth to the ‘little girl’s room’. I can just imagine what’s going to happen if I drink more fluids. But, I know I must and so I am making a very concerted effort to drink the water – pi water of course. I have selected a very large container to hold my water. By doing this, I have more water at hand and will have to make less trips to get water (I’m thinking that the action of having to go get the water in the course of working, etc may be a factor in not drinking it). I am finding that the water I have in the quart sized container is disappearing faster than I thought it would, so I may have solved this ‘sichiation’. :) Inside joke for those of us that were at Pathfinder’s Summit :)

I’ve had some really good suggestions from folks reading this blog. I will be posting my before picture to the site as soon as I get one that will upload. Anyone with an online pic, please let me know so I can upload to this site. Thanks. Also, I have taken the beginning measurements and placed them in the profile so that they can be updated and my progress followed on a regular basis without having to find them in the initial entry that was made. Ouch, they're staring me in the face and it isn't pretty!

One more thing and then I’ll close for today. I would appreciate prayers and encouragement from as many as feel comfortable giving it. While this program is the best thing to come along in as far back as I can remember and I can see that it is going to work, overcoming a weakened will power is going to take practice and determination. Remember, I LOVE FOOD! and I miss the action of eating. Keeping positive motivation in the forefront of what I do on a daily basis will help to create a habit. I thank each and everyone of you in advance for your support.

Well, really, just one more thing. I talked with my Mom on Friday of last week. I actually called her on Thursday and she usually calls me back on the same day. Not this time. When she did call, she was laughing and happy. She said she had been outside the day before working in the yard “all day” and that when she did come in, she was so tired that she didn’t want to talk to anyone. Obviously, she is continuing to feel better than she has in ages and she has lost 5 pounds to date. She ordered more shake mixture and said my Dad was watching her and once he sees that she is continuing to feel great and drop the weight, he would probably join in on the program as well. Hard headed? You bet! I get that honest and I'm not ashamed to admit it. That's part of the charm of being an Aries. Nothing would thrill me more that to have my parents get their physical lives in balance and to begin living healthier and happier!

Okay, that really was the end. Talk to you later. Wish me strong will power and say a prayer…..

Cindy

Sunday, March 26, 2006

2006-03-26T14:48:00.000-08:00

Now I'm sure. I've slept like a baby every night since I've been using the Body Balance Program. I'm sure that it must have something to do with this and I'm thrilled.

This morning we all got ready and went to church. I am feeling good, and the 'going through the motions' fog I've been in for so long is almost completely gone.

Mom has decided to give this program a try. I will be ordering her kit today. I have an extra kit ordered at the launch and will simply give her this one and replace it with the one she buys. I'm so happy she is going to work this program. She needs to lose weight as much as I do and the benefits to her health will be invaluable.

I bought a camara today for the Austin trip next week. The first two pics are of Mom and I as our before pics. We also noted our measurements. We're both going to participate in the contest that Nikken is sponsoring to win a $2500 new wardrobe. Mom's words were something to the effect that "if I can just lose this weight I will need all new clothes. Therefore, Cindy, you had better stick to this to the letter!" I think I've been given my marching orders. Now that there is incentive beyond looking and feeling better, I think I may have created a monster!

I've been in the kitchen with her all afternoon. We're fixing a birthday dinner to celebrate tonight. Harry is coming from Durham to pick me up. I pack tomorrow and fly out with Wanda on Tuesday for the Pathfinder's Summit. I am in charge of the salad, and I must say it is a masterpiece of a salad. Yes, I did nibble on cucumber and green pepper. Probably not much damage done.

This will be the last entry until I return from Austin; unless I can get my hands on a computer while there and I doubt I will have the time or forththought to look for one.

Okay, here is some personal information. No one in the whole entire world has ever known this. Now I'm announcing it to the world. Just so you'll know, that is because I don't intend to be at this point for very much longer!

3/26/2006: Cindy's measurements:
Bust: 49 1/2 "
Waist: 49 1/2 "
Hips: 55"
Upper thigh: 34"
Upper arm: 15 1/2"

How depressing to see the numbers in print. Like I said before, I'm a big girl. My goal is to be healthier, happy and much, much smaller by September of this year.

The coast is my very favorite place in the whole world. The last two years I've spent time there and struggled to enjoy it as much as before because of my size. This year IS going to be different. I can feel it in my bones and the wonderful people involved in the research and development at Nikken, and the people responsible for bringing us this program are to be credited with my ability to produce these results. I will never be able to thank them enough.

Have a great week and I'll be writing again when I get back from Austin. Hope I see a cowboy or two!

See you at the Summit!

Cindy

Saturday, March 25, 2006

2006-03-25T11:53:00.000-08:00

I slept all the way through last night again and did not wake up til 7:30 this morning. How wonderful. I could get used to this.

First things first. I wasn't going to weigh everyday, but I'm eager to see what happened (if anything with yesterday's efforts). OH MY GOSH! I've lost another 2 pounds. I'm just staring at the scales wondering if that's right. I'm almost afraid that this isn't really happening. I don't lose weight. I yo yo back and forth. To think that I'm now 4 pounds lighter than 2 days ago is absolutely amazing.

Mom wants the vanilla and pineapple shake again for breakfast. We take our burn tablets, wait our 30 minutes, fix the shakes and they are as good as they were yesterday!

We're altering alot of my clothes today. I've brought three pairs of pants that need hemming. I've got a top that we're taking some off the sleeves and now that one fits better all the way around as well. I've said it before and I'll say it again. Aren't Mom's wonderful! I now have at least 4 or 5 new outfits I can put together.

About 11:00 we decide to have a rev up. When the droopy feeling comes, it comes on quick. The rev up works and within a few minutes we're back on our game. I wasn't sure how long it would last, but we didn't get hungry until after 2 this afternoon. We had our burn tablets and drink chocolate shakes around 2:30. That should last us until dinner. Not sure what we're going to have, but I know we'll be looking forward to it.

I also did something today that I haven't done in months probably since last year sometime. While Mom was on the sewing machine, I took a turn on the walking machine they have set up in the basement. (That's where her sewing machines are). You see, Mom has several different kinds of machines as she used to sew professionally for several interior decorators in town. Quite a few of the homes at the coast have Mom's creations in them. She's terrific!

I walked for about 10 minutes, felt the backs of my legs tightening up and decided not to go crazy with this. Small steps will be fine. My point is that several days ago I would have looked at that machine and thought what's the point. Now, I'm movitated to actually take the step. That's huge!

We're finished with the sewing, except I have some buttons to reinforce and some seams to double check.

That's a big project we've finished. I appreciate her so much!

I did get a little empty feeling around 5 or so. I ate a couple of saltine crackers with a piece of cheese and was just fine. We went to K & W for dinner. I had grilled chicken with grilled onions, sliced cucumbers, and steamed apples. Every thing tasted wonder and when I was finished, I was full. Unsweet tea was my drink and I only had one glass. No bread, no dessert, no extras. I was full, fine and content.

I will say one thing and I believe this is the appropriate time for it.

On the way home, Mom says "Oh, I just had a stomach cramp" I was fine. She had justed started the cleanse the night before. Well, she must have said something to Dad, 'cause we got home in less than half the time it took us to get to the restaurant. Within 10 minutes of getting home, I was "hit" with the same feeling. The lesson is.... Until you get beyond the cleanse phase, make sure you are in a position to get to a bathroom within a little bit of eating a meal. Especially if it's a complete meal. Otherwise, YOU WILL BE IN TROUBLE!

We're celebrating my birthday this weekend. My birthday isn't until the middle of April, but since I probably won't be able to get home for that weekend, we're celebrating now. FYI, I always come home the weekend around my birthday. It's something we've always done. I was the only female child or grandchild up until I was around 30. Spoiled? Absolutely! and loving every second of it! Anyway, what I'm leading up to is that there is a birthday cake in the house. Poor me. I've stayed away from it until now. Evenings have always been my downfall. So, in order to not obsess over this, we are having a small piece of birthday cake and then we are putting it out of our minds. My advice at this point, if you're in a position where there's something that isn't "weight management worthy" and it's a choice of having a little bit or thinking about and then caving and having too much, go ahead and have a little, be satisfied and move on. You'll be better off in the long run and this will lend itself to a lifestyle that you will be more comfortable with and therefore probably stick with longer.

Well, the end of another day. Successful? Probably. We've had our cleanse tablets for the evening. Mom was concerned about taking it tonight because of church in the morning. Basically this is what I said to her. If you're in the choir and you have to get up and leave, then get up and leave. You cannot start thinking about whether to do this or not, or it won't work. We will have to follow the program and adjust our lives to it for right now.

I think I'll turn in as well. Dad's going to a different church tomorrow to listen to a friend of theirs give his second sermon. We were all going, but so many are going to be out at their regular church that Mom (one of the deacons in the church) felt she needed to be there for support (the choir is only going to have three tomorrow. Yes, it is a very small church). Dr. Mitchell is sick and so I'm wondering who will be performing the sermon tomorrow. I just love Dr. Mitchell. I've known him since I was very small. I had a crush on his son Johnny when we were in high school. Johnny's not with us any longer (sad story). I enjoy going to church with Mom and Dad and listening to Dr. Mitchell. He's really great.

Good night on another day.

Cindy

Friday, March 24, 2006

2006-03-24T16:37:00.000-08:00

What a day! The cleanser is working, and working and working. All in all, it's not that bad. Not harsh and not an emergent feeling, just dont' ignore the message when it comes! (Can't believe I'm writing about this!)

I spent all night long last night without getting up once. That's two nights in a row. I haven't done that in years. What a great feeling! I wonder if it's the CPAP or the Body Balance and I'm thinking it's a combination of both. I've been on the CPAP for about 4 weeks now and I wasn't sleeping all night before now, so something is definitely enhancing my sleep. I'm looking forward to seeing if it lasts.

While I'm visiting my folks, my Mom and I are both using the Body Balance Program. She and I are like the same person only 21 years different. What she has happen in her life at some point happens in my life. Hypothyrodism, diabetes, being overweight, and good stuff too. We've had alot of good stuff happen too.

This morning we took our Burn capsules. We waited the 30 minutes. She wanted to try the Chocolate shake (she LOVES chocolate) so we made chocolate shakes. In the blender I put one cup Pi water, 2 scoops of chocolate shake powder, some crushed ice and whirled away. That was for her and she loved it. For me, I put the same thing in the blender and added a pack of Jade Greenzymes (young Barley grass) and about an inch of banana. As a diabetic, I've been told to limit my bananas to very little 'cause of the sugar. I sure miss them. Well, the shake was one of the best I've had yet. About mid morning we took a Rev up. I took a whole one and she only wanted a half of one. See, Mom has restless leg syndrome and suffers from it terribly. I have the beginnings of it, don't get it often but when I do, man have I got to get up and move around. Mom's afraid that the rev up will cause her RLS to flair up tonight when she's trying to get to sleep. She was willing to try 1/2 a tablet in water 'cause I told her if she couldn't sleep I'd take another whole one and sit up and play cards with her. Gee, I hope she knows I was only kidding. Anyway, so far so good. I didn't have anyone to ask about the ramifications of RLS and Rev up, so I guess she's the ginnea pig. Wish us luck.

We're going shopping today. I leave next Tuesday for Austin, Tx to attend the Pathfinders Summit. This will be the first BIG Nikken event I have attend since becoming a distributor. I'm really looking forward to it. Before we leave the house we decide to have lunch (1 pm) cause we're going to be eating dinner tonight for our one meal.

This time she wants a Vanilla shake and gets out a can of crushed pineapple with no sugar added. I check the can and see that the carbs are 15 for a 1/2 cup. In the blender I add 1 cup Pi water, crushed ice, 2 scoops Vanilla powder and 2 teaspoons of crushed pineapple. I calculate this to be about 7-8 carbs for the pineapple based on the information I received at my Diabetes Education Class last November and December. Since I'm allowed to have 45 carbs per meal, this is well within my limits. We both had the same shake and OM Gosh was it good! I will definitely do this one again!

A Shopping we will go. We hit the mall and a couple hours later, I'm feeling a little empty. Well, I didn't think to bring a rev up with me so, what to do. Mom reaches in her purse and pulls out a sugar free mint. Aren't Moms great! This was perfect and took the edge off. I'll certainly start carrying my rev up with me.

Now it's 8 pm and I still haven't had dinner yet. I know I should have eaten before now, but I had an appointment at the beauty salon for a perm at 4:30 and it was supposed to take an hour. Well, Mom decided to get a manicure and pedicure while I was getting all permed up and we didn't leave the shop until 6:45. Poor Dad. He got home from work at 6 and had no idea where we were. The message Mom left for him didn't go through good and all he knew was that his daughter was visiting and his Wife and daughter were out and about somewhere doing something. We got home and he was in front of the TV watching Boston College play in the NCAA games. Well, so much for going to the fish house for dinner tonight. Mom ordered thin crust pizza and I'll just have to practive will power and not over eat or blow the entire day. You know what? I LOVE PIZZA. I'm so glad we didn't eat lunch.

Tonight Mom is going to try the Cleanse for the first time. She should have started it last night, but she wasn't sure if she was going to try this program or not. Today, I helped her decide. I said, Mom tonight you're going to try the Cleanse. Wow, I'll have to do that more often. It worked.

Today was a good day. I've lost 2 pounds so far. Still need to get my before pic on here. I have several lovlies to choose from. Two pounds doesn't sound like much, but look at it this way. That's 2 pounds I didn't carry around today that I did carry around yesterday. Tomorrow will be even better.

I'm just loving this.

One successful day behind me and so many wonderful ones to come!

Cindy

Thursday evening

2006-03-23T19:33:00.000-08:00

Well, I certainly blew this day. I ate lunch and that was my first mistake. I gave in. I knew I would be coming to Mom and Dad's tonight and we would go out to dinner. I should have waited for that meal. Dinner was pasta with meat sauce, peppers and onions. It was very good and I didn't overeat (amazing), but I did eat 2 meals today. This is a habit that I will have to break for me to be successful. I will break it. I will.

Okay. Let it go and start over. I took three of the cleanse tablets tonight. I still have not begun the cleanse phase. That is frustrating.

It's now 10:37 and I'm hungry. I wonder what I'm supposed to do late at night like this. Fix a small drink? Can't do a fizzy (rev up) cause then I won't get any sleep. I'm not really wanting anything in particular. I think this is more habit again. Drink a big glass of water. I'll try that.

Tomorrow I'm going to post my before picture on this site. I'm also going to have my measurements taken. Not sure if I can go public with those yet, though. The picture will speak for itself and I'll have the numbers to back it up later. That's probably what I'll do.

I'm excited about the Summit coming up next week. Keep thinking about that and focus on positive actions. That might help too. Think about September and going to Holden Beach. The plan is to be feeling good and looking better by then. Focus on September. Good - back on track.

Good night. See you tomorrow.

Cindy

Thursday, March 23, 2006

2006-03-23T03:55:00.000-08:00

Good morning Thursday.

The alarm goes off and I'm awake. Not overly tired. I slept pretty good last night. Didn't have to get up, a little unusual, but I'll certainly take it.

Getting ready for work. A few tummy cramps, maybe today will be the day. I sound like I'm expecting a package.

What to pack (food) for work today. I'm going to add some peaches to my vanilla shake this am. I thought of that yesterday and I've been looking forward to it since then.

I get to work a little before 6. I took my 2 burn capsules at 6:15 am, one cup of water down.

The shake was great! I had a little left over and have it in the freezer for later.

Mid morning and I notice I'm cold. Those that know me would be shocked to hear me say that. I'm known for my personal summer attacks and haven't been "cold" or even chilly in years. I've turned the thermastat up a little in the office (it's now on 71). Will probably make some coffee. Thanks Brian for making the coffee...

So far so good.

Okay, it's about 30 minutes before lunch. Time to take the Burn capsules.

Well, lunch was a real meal with real food. Guess the shake will wait for dinner. I had green beans, kidney beans, rice and steamed shrimp, fruit, salad with cucs, red peppers, tomatoes and tomatoe slice with a slice of cheese on top. Very good!

I'm so full, couldn't eat it all. Now that's certainly something different!

I'm leaving this afternoon to visit my folks for the weekend and taking my Body Balance Program Pak with me. I'm thinking Mom will be interested in seeing this. I need to get my before picture and post on here. I read earlier about the contest for a $2500 wardrobe and I believe I will enter this one. Somebody's got to win, might as well be me....

Later,

Wednesday am

2006-03-22T12:14:00.000-08:00

The alarm goes off and I only had to get up once. No, not the cleanse, I needed a drink to stop coughing. It's hard to drink water with a CPAP blowing air up your nose.

Okay, so nothing yet. I go through my morning routine, get ready for work and leave. So far, so good. I'm at work, feeling fine. It's a little before 6 am and I decide to initiate the next phase of the program. Take 2 of the burn capsules 30 minutes before drinking a meal replacement drink. I think I'll make vanilla this morning. The 2 capsules are down, I've started work. Okay, so I'm making extra trips to the bathroom. Must be all the water I'm drinking! I've made the vanilla drink and it's pretty good. I've got some extra made, so I'll put that in the freezer for a vanilla pop later in the day!

Midmorning I'm getting a little hungry. Should I nibble on a little something something or take a rev up. Lunch time is around 11:30, and it's 10 am. Hum. Let's try a rev up. Plop plop fizz fizz. Not bad. It has a lemony flavor. Still no sign that the cleanse is working. I'm surprised after all I've heard.

Lunch comes and I know I'll be eating out tonight so I should make another shake. I'll compromise. I eat a hand full of saltine crackers, a couple of celery pieces and a couple of slicks of honey ham (deli section of grocery) along with getting the frozen shake out of the freezer. It's about a 1/3 of the size of the regular drink but I can "nurse" it this afternoon. I guess one thing I should mention is that I LOVE FOOD. It's a habit that I know I must break, having something to munch on through out the day.

Wow, now it's 4 in the afternoon. Having the slushy shake pop to sip on this afternoon really worked! I haven't thought about food all afternoon. That's great! Still no sign of a cleanse exodus.

For dinner we stopped at a MacDonald's. Not a good choice at all, but convenient and quick. I got a fish sandwich and a diet coke. Believe it or not, that filled me up. Not a great dinner, but it could have been worse. I guess.

Bedtime is approaching. I'm surprised that the cleanse did not affect me today. I'll call my friend who has gone through this and get some reinforcement on what to expect. Her advice is to take 3 cleanse capsules tomorrow night if nothing has happened by then. I've already taken the dosage of 2 for tonight.

Bedtime. I have the first day behind me now and all things considered, I didn't do too bad. I have noticed that I wasn't as tired today as normal. It is almost 10 pm before I get to bed and sleep. Tomorrow is another day.....

Tuesday evening

2006-03-22T12:07:00.000-08:00

The first step in beginning this program is a colon cleanser.

I'm to take two capsules before going to bed. My bedtime is 9 pm and I get up at 4:15 am each morning. I've gotten home a little late tonight from a business briefing and it's already 9:30. I'm a little nervous as I've heard some fairly concerning stories about what is going to happen in the morning after taking these tonight. I'm afraid the timing will be off. What happens if all "!" breaks loose while I'm in the shower, or driving to work, or in a meeting......

Well, it's do this or not. So, get some Pi Water and drink them down. They don't taste bad. I wonder if I'll have to get up during the night. Bedtime. Lights out. Say a little prayer.

Preview

2006-03-22T11:45:00.000-08:00

Everyone is always saying that it's not what you look like so much as who you are. I agree with that, but.... I've been heavy since I was three years old, and I sure would like to have some time to understand what I've been missing.

I'm forty-seven years old and there's alot I haven't been able to do in my life because I wasn't physically able. I'm overweight, with diabetes, sleep apnea, a very weak back both from a fracture back in '96 and from the strain and stress I put it through everyday carrying me around and all this works to keep me in a sedentary lifestyle. Well, no more!

I'll be turning forty-eight in a few weeks and by the time I turn forty-nine, I plan to have my life. I'm not going to say back, because that would imply that I am returning to a place I've been before. This will be an entirely new life full of new choices and adventures.

This blog is going to take you through my process of becoming a happier and healthier me.

The Body Balance Program was introduced in the United States and Canada on Saturday. I purchased a kit.