The C H A L L E N G E	Coral Fauchon
	Read Biography
	Read Daily Journals
	View Progress Pictures

MAY JOURNALS

Date:

08 May 2003

Time:

01:22:52

Todays Journal

Today was supposed to be a workout day, but after getting home at 6:00 and feeding the kids and doing the bedtime thing, it got way too late. I was so tired that I fell asleep in my daughter's bed again and just got up. Let see, it's 10:45. I guess I'll be up for awhile. But too tired to do a workout. I'll call today my cheat day and start again tomorrow. I must say I have to take my hat off to those that work all day and still manage to do the family thing and squeeze a workout in before the day is over.

May 6, 2003

Went to the park with my kids. Great day for it. I did my cardio when my daughter was in preschool.

May 5, 2003

My daughter and I had an eye doctor's appointment today. We were in the office for 2 hours. Couldn't believe it took take that long. I have another appointment for my son early next month, I hope it won't be that bad. My son is 18 months now and this will be a busy month for doctor's appointments. He has already seen the pediatrician. Still to go is the GP (for shots), eye doctor, and follow up with the ENT to check the tubes in his ears.

May 4, 2003

Back home today. It was nice to get away for a little while, and it's always nice to get back home to your own bed (my brother has a futon...a hard futon). It will be good to get back on a schedule with my eating plan. I didn't do too well this weekend. I let myself indulged too much. Bad timing because my 3rd assessment is coming up soon.

May 3, 2003

Went shopping today. There isn't much to do here other than go shopping. My poor brother, he had bought a bunch of food for us, eg. a frozen lasagna, bagels and cream cheese, deli meat, etc. and we nixed most of it. We ended up going to the store and buying the required food. Not as much fun but will try to keep to the plan. We did go out for Mexican food tonight though. Today was my day off for working out but Pierre did manage to find a gym too. So he and my brother took off in the morning.

May 2, 2003

Busy day, I was packing and getting ready to go to Seattle. My brother lives there, and we thought it would be nice to get away for the weekend. Our mistake was stopping at Costco on the way down. We always get hot dog when we go to Costco. Even though Pierre and I weren't planning on ordering one, we had to get one for my daughter (unfortunately Pierre and I did end up sharing one) and as we were finishing up, there was a lady sitting directly opposite to us with a huge ice cream bar. These are the kind that are dipped into chocolate and then roasted almonds coated all over (kind of like the ones you get from Purdy's only bigger). Pierre and I looked at each other and we were both thinking the same thing. Then Maddie pipes in she wanted ice cream too so how can we resist, we had to get her one :). Unfortunately she couldn't finish it so Pierre (and me a little bit) had to finish if off. They say if you're going to cheat, make sure it will be worth is...and it was.

May 1, 2003

Nothing much happening. Did some cardio and tried to clean the house a bit.

Date:

14 May 2003

Time:

02:13:04

Todays Journal

Today was a full upper body workout...3 sets. Also did 30 min. on the treadmill. Ran out of chicken soup and egg whites so today for the first time in weeks, I had a piece of toast with some cheese broiled on top. It was nice, comfort food. Of course I felt guilty so I tried to walk a little faster on the treadmill.

May 12, 2003

Had my assessment today. Neaghn is so encouraging. Even with my measly 2 1/2 pounds that I lost she said I was doing great (well...maybe not great but not bad). Boy it was a tough month, with Easter, going away one weekend and Mother's day dinner. Let's see what's up for this month? I don't think there is anything big so this month shall be better.

May 11, 2003

Happy Mother's Day! I spent today at my mother's house, didn't do much. It's nice for me and the kids, they enjoy it there and it gives me a bit of a break. No workout today, I do find that I miss it when it's a day off.

May 10, 2003

I don't have anything to report today so I will tell you my "feel good story" that happened to me last weekend. We had to drive my brother somewhere and that means I get demoted to the back seat because he's bigger than me and it isn't very comfortable for him. I usually dread sitting back there because it is so tight with 2 car seats. I squeeze in holding my breath (sometimes I can't even reach the seatbelt) and get Pierre to shut the door for me. Well, this time, I couldn't believe it, I was able to do up the seatbelt and close the door by myself and not get hurt. As a matter of fact, the ride was actually comfortable. Wow! that's the first major difference I've noticed with myself. Yeah!

May 9, 2003

Cardio day. I don't mind the excercise but the food intake hasn't been the greatest. My mom is always giving me food. She goes to Costco, and buys too much and gives me the leftover. I'll be strong. Maddie (my 3 year old) likes it though. She's not doing well with this low carb diet (ha, ha, ha)

May 8, 2003

Realized today that we're taking my mother-in-law out for dinner on Saturday (for Mother's Day) and I'm working during the day, so unfortunately we won't be able to make it for the walk and evening thing. Hoping to make it to the next meeting, it would be nice to get a chance to meet everyone. Today I did manage to get a workout in seeing that I missed yesterday, I did my upper body today and cardio. I forgot to do my abs though, which is funny because it is the easiest one to do because you can do it anywhere. I must admit I haven't been doing well with my abs workout (I just forget), maybe that's why that was the only measurement that I didn't lose any inches at my last assessment.

Date:

16 May 2003

Time:

01:51:49

Todays Journal

In the mornings I make oatmeal for myself and the kids for breakfast. I eat about 2/3 cup and my 18month son eats about a cup. He eats more than me. However, I don't put a protein shake or flax seed in his so I guess my bowl does look fuller. By 11:30 I was out the door to pick my mom up to take her shopping. She took too long so I had to leave her at the store so I could drop my daughter off at preschool. First stopping off at home again because I forgot her shoes. After preschool off again to the store to pick up my mom and drive her home. Then I went home thinking I have time to do some interval training on the treadmill and take a shower before I have to pick my daughter up. As I warmed up on the treadmill I thought I would return a friend's call. She doesn't like talking on the phone very much so I thought I'll just talk with her during the warmup before I would start running. Wouldn't you know today she had more to say and I even had to stop the treadmill. Time was ticking away and I really wanted to finish this part of the workout and I really need a shower. I finally hung up with her and did my run and took my shower and even managed to feed my son seeing how he just woke up from his nap. Then off to preschool again, it was a special day today they had sports day. Then to my mom's again for whatever reason I can't remember. Then to my church to pick up an overhead projector (I need it to paint a mural in my basement, I need something to look at when I'm on the treadmill) and off to meet with Neaghn to pickup the results from my assessment. The appointment was for 4:00 and at this time I hadn't had lunch so Wendy's here I come. I was thinking about getting a burger because I needed something easy to eat in the car. Wouldn't you know it I took the high road and ordered a Chicken salad. Don't worry I didn't eat it while I was driving. Met Neaghn, was only 5 minutes late. When I was finished I sat in the car and had my lunch, by this time it was 4:20ish. Off to home again but before that I wanted to go the the nursery to pickup some flowers. By the time I got home I had to make babysitting arrangement so Pierre and I could go to Gator's tonight and make dinner and get the kids ready for bed so when my mother-in-law comes over it would be relatively easy for her to watch the kids. Whoever said being at home was going to be easy. Okay, 7:25pm and we're out the door. It was a good session although those seats were very uncomfortable (could it be there isn't as much padding on me anymore?) Looking around too I tried to see if I would recognize people from our group and the ones I did, looked a little different from their pictures...like they've lose weight. Way to go you guys!!!

May 14, 2003

I worked today. After work I picked my daughter up from my mom's and my plans were to do some interval training before my meeting tonight. Didn't do the cardio so maybe I'll do it after I got home. The meeting ran late and I didn't get home until 10:45. I rarely miss a training so it was disappointing that I couldn't fit it in today. Ate pretty well at the dinner meeting. I had salmon and asked for more vegetables instead of potatoes. Did have the garlic toast though.

Date:

23 May 2003

Time:

01:03:01

Todays Journal

Did well with my eating plan today, except for the bite-size Oh Henry, and 2 cups of coffee with cream and sugar and the cheese on my tuna sandwich (I thought it needed a little more omph) and I think that's it. Also did managed to do my weights, however, still need to do my cardio and abs. I still have another hour and 15 minutes before today is over.

May 21, 2003

Spent 3 hours at McDonalds today. Great place for the kids to run around. I had the chicken burger and finished off the kids' fries. By the time I got home and did the home thing, I ran out of time and couldn't do my cardio. Was disappointed in that. I haven't missed much in my excercise schedule, however, this week I haven't been quite on track. I asked Pierre today if he's missed much and he's been very good, I'm really proud of him. He said he hasn't missed any workouts and we've been away twice since we've started this program. And I know he's pretty right on with his food intake too.

May 20, 2003

Did a full workout today. Did not feel like I was ready for it because I am still sore from Sunday's workout. It wasn't too bad though. Forgot to do the abs. I'm not very good at doing them. I don't know why they're easy, doesn't require any equipment.

May 19, 2003

Went out for dim sum. My brother was in town and we always go out for dim sum the day he leaves. I always look forward to it but today for some reason I wasn't eating as much as usual. The food doesn't taste the same, or I'm having more self control. Body very sore from yesterday's workout.

May 18, 2003

First day doing my new workout. I've been putting it off, it seems a bit overwhelming. It seems like I've just gotten use to my old routine, then I have to change it again. Wasn't as bad as I thought it was going to be though.

May 17, 2003

No workout today, decided to start tomorrow or Monday with my new workout. Haven't done anything since Thursday, feeling a little yucky...like I miss excercising? Doing okay with my eating plan. Not as good as my husband though. Feeling a little jealous that he's doing better than me. Don't tell him I said that though, wouldn't want him to think he's better than me.

May 16, 2003.

Doctor's appointment today for my son. His 18month shots. He wasn't happy. Later on we went to a friend's place for a playdate with the kids. Ended up eating dinner there. Not a good day for my diet or, good day for the spirit though.

Date:

29 May 2003

Time:

02:55:05

Todays Journal

I had planned to workout after work today but life got into the way and I didn't quite make it. The kids finally went down around 10:00 and I was too tired to do anything else. Did pretty well with my eating except for after dinner. I won't be at the meeting tomorrow night (I have a CPR course) but Pierre will be there and looking forward to meeting everyone.

May 27, 2003

Does anyone remember years ago in the Province newspaper there was a little comic titled "Happiness is...." and there was always a cute little happiness that would make you smile. Well, today for me "Happiness is....when you drop your daughter off to preschool and your 19 month old falls asleep during the drive home." You know what that means? 2 hours or "ME" time. Ordinarily I would be spending that time relaxing with a cup of coffee reading or watching tv. But do you know what I did instead? Cardio. Intervals. 7 to be exact. And yes it actually felt good. I know I would never have thought that 3 months ago. And I even had time left over to work on my mural, it's coming along. Even Pierre is starting to see the potential.

June 26, 2003

Hey guess what I did today. I tried on some pre-pregnacy pants. And to my surprise they fit. I haven't even attempt to try on those pants for the last 4 years (don't ask me why I have them in my closet still). From Feb. 1999 - Feb. 2003, (except for a 6 month window) I've been either pregnant or nursing. This means I've been eating and not excercising. And when I look back at what I've been doing these last 3 months, it really surprises me how much I've changed in my eating and excercising attitude. I know I'm not totally there yet, but feel I feel good and starting to get strong again.

June 25, 2003

Day off from my workout. Eating pretty good, not great, but not terrible either.

June 24, 2003

Just for the record, I did get my cardio and Abs done last night with a couple of miutes left before today came. Heck, I felt like doing another set to meet my quota for today.

Date:

30 May 2003

Time:

02:36:14

Todays Journal

Busy day. Had an appointment with the ear doctor in Vancouver. He was late. The appointment was at 1:30 and I hadn't brought enough food. I was starving by the time I left at 3:30. Had to do some grocery shopping before I went home. Hard to shop when you're hungary. Then when I got home I had to get dinner ready and then off to my CPR class. It was at my office and when I got there they had pizza. I haven't had pizza in a LONG time. I was good though, and just looked. Unfortunately I never got a workout in today either. I haven't been very good with that this month. I don't know why. I don't think I like the excercises as much this month and I put it off. Although, I did have a busy 2 days as well. Don't ask me to get up earlier to workout because I often, such as now, don't get to bed until after midnight and I am not going to get up before my kids. That being said, it's bedtime.

Date:

02 Jun 2003

Time:

01:58:56

Todays Journal

Started the day off with a walk at SFU. It was a 5K walk for Down Syndrome Research. It was a fun day. I went with a girlfriend and her son and my daughter. It was my girlfriend's first time doing something like this and I think she had a blast. We clocked in at 40 minutes and some, but who cares it was a beautiful day to get out and get some excerise.

May 31, 2003

Didn't get a chance to work out today, but did manage to follow the eating plan pretty close. Only downfall was having dinner late because we had to go to the clinic to get some sand flushed out of my daughter's eye...kids playing rough. On top of it all she was hungary and tired so she was not the ideal patient.

May 30, 2003

Cardio done. Weights done. Abs...oops I forgot again (maybe that's why I haven't been losing much inches in that area). Ate well though.

Date:

07 Jun 2003

Time:

02:35:56

Todays Journal

I worked today and had an appointment in Langley afterwards so I didn't get a chance to do some cardio. I walked fast though, pushing a stroller. It was so hot tonight, Pierre and I stopped into Tim Hortons for a iced cappicino, it was so refreshing. It's going to be hard to resist those cold beverages during this hot spell we've been getting.

June 5, 2003

Eye doctor's appointment for Marcus in Vancouver. This the last of series of appointments for him for awhile. Thank goodness, both he and me are getting tired of this. Ran into a friend that I haven't seen for awhile at the doctor's appointment. Turns out she was at Children's last month too with the ear doctor. How coincidental is that. We need to get our appointments coordinated so we can carpool. Anyways, did my workout with cardio (intervals) today, but as usual I've forgoten my abs.

June 4, 2003

45 minutes on the treadmill today. I find that a long time. Tried reading a magazine to pass the time away. Also got the fan out and stuck it in front of me. It's hot tonight!

June 3, 2003

Today is my Monday. Did a full workout with cardio and abs...the works!

June 2, 2003

Didn't do anything today. Resting from my 5K walk yesterday. I'll start my week tomorrow.

Date:

08 Jun 2003

Time:

00:45:09

Todays Journal

Another hot day. Couldn't manage to get myself to do a workout or eat properly. Just tried to stay cool. Went to the Garcha brothers for the first time (Pierre usually goes). I showed the guy my card and he charged me the price that was listed. I told him I thought we got a discounted price for being part of the challenge so he recalulated the price by 10 cents/lb so I paid $3.69. Didn't seem like much of a deal seeing Save-On Foods is selling their skinless, boneless chicken for $3.59/lb this week and I don't have to drive 20 minutes to get there. Lesson learned today, make sure you check your receipt to make sure you're charged the correct price before paying.

Date:

12 Jun 2003

Time:

02:12:18

Todays Journal

Hooray!!!! First time in four years I've worn jeans with my shirt tucked in...and I don't think I looked that bad. Ate pretty well except for an hour ago (ugh, late) I had a bite of a square I made and a bowl of Cheerios. I know, I know, what am I doing with Cheerios at home or even worst why do I have squares sitting in my kitchen beckening me when I'm weak.

June 10, 2003

Had company in the morning and more in the evening. Therefore I made a almond roca square. I'm okay but Pierre is feeling weak. Also, had to accompany my daughter in the afternoon on a field trip. Couldn't squeeze a workout today. I usually can do it when she is at preschool.

June 9, 2003

Had a friend come over with her kids today. Made a delicious salad with grilled chicken. She was impressed. Little does she know it is a regular thing at our house. Didn't have time to workout because we spent almost all afternoon outside watching the kids play in the pool. Afterwards I cleaned up and got dinner ready.

June 8, 2003

Went to church, then had company over in the afternoon. Was going to make dinner for them (chicken of course) but by the time we got back from the beach is was late. Therefore, we went to White Spot. The meal was okay, it's ashame when you're going to cheat (I had pasta) and it wasn't very good. Felt like I wasted my calories.

Date:

19 Jun 2003

Time:

02:27:38

Todays Journal

Did my intervals today. I'm not enjoying them. I'm up to 11 and they're just not that much fun. I don't think I'll get abs in because it's after midnight

June 17, 2003 Did full set of weights. For the cardio portion we went out for a walk as a family. It was nice, we were hoping our daughter would fall asleep in the stroller...no such luck.

June 16, 2003 Had a great day at Granville Island. Spent the day with a friend as we watched Maddie run through the sprinklers at the waterpark. Poor Marcus, I'm a bit paranoid of putting him in the water because of the tubes in his ears. He didn't seem to mind to much because he got lots of attention from my friend. Hard to resist the bakery at the market. Did splurged and bought a raison bread. Hey at least it was better than getting a danish or donut.

June 15, 2003

Spent all day in Vancouver for the Dragon Boat races. It was lots of fun. They had a play area set up for kids and Maddie had a blast.

June 14, 2003

Worked. Went to mother-in-law's for dinner. She ordered Chinese food. Disappointed that I couldn't squeeze a workout in today.

June 13, 2003

One of those days that you're busy running around doing things, and when you sit down to reflect on what you've done, you think nothing.

June 12, 2003

Did a full workout today. Ate okay, have been slipping lately. A little nervous once again because assessment time will be fast approaching.

Date:

27 Jun 2003

Time:

01:35:52

Todays Journal

Did not eat well today. I don't know what's with me lately. My sweet tooth is coming back to haunt me. Now that Maddie is finish preschool I've also have had a hard time fitting a workout in. I usually did it when she was in school. I'll have to figure something out.

June 25, 2003: Got our new program today. It will be different doing circuit training. I'll let you knw how it goes. Plus I have do do 45 minutes of cardio 5 days/week. Pierre gets no cardio. Apparently he's burning too much fat. I guess I don't have that problem.

June 24, 2003: Fun day at the beach. Poor Maddie she was tired walking back to the car and I wouldn't let her sit in the stroller because Marcus had fallen asleep in it. We had to boogie because the meter was ticking away. I was looking forward to getting home thinking that Maddie and Marcus will fall and stay asleep in the car and I will have a couple of hours of quiet time. WRONG. As soon as I got home she wasn't tired any more and he woke up. Therefore, tried but couldn't fit a workout in.

June 23, 2003: Assessment day. Didn't gain or lose any weight. My breakdown was: lost 7lbs of fat and gained 6lbs muscle. I am about 5% body fat 5lbs away from being "healthy" These next 4 weeks will be crunch time.

June 22, 2003: Nothing exciting. Went to Ikea. That took up a good part of the day.

June 21, 2003: My brothers are in town so we took my dad out for a belated Father's Day dinner. Went out to a chinese restuarant. My mom did the ordering and there was a lot of seafood and fatty meat like duck. Anyways, I did have a little and tried to eat more vegetables. Hard to resist the seafood though.

June 20, 2003: Went to my grandfather's funeral today. He was 85. It was sad he had been sick for a long time. So even if you know that he wasn't going to be around much longer, it still is sad when they actually go. I had breakfast around 9:00 am and wasn't able to eat agin until about 5:00pm. I was hungary.

June 19, 2003: Did a full workout today. Busy day, I have to get things ready for tomorrow. I have my grandfather's funeral to go to.

Date:

29 Jun 2003

Time:

01:48:03

Todays Journal

June 27, 2003: I managed to do my first circuit training today. Seem to have went well. For my 45 minute of cardio I went out for a walk in the evening. It's so nice right now we must take advantage of the outdoors. Much better than staying at home and sweating it out on the treadmill. And yes, I even fit the abs excercises in today.

June 28, 2003: Just cardio workout today. Went out for an evening walk again. Couldn't fit any lunch at work again today. It makes it a long day when you can't get a meal in. It wasn't until about 4:00 before I got home and got something to eat.

Date:

06 Jul 2003

Time:

02:46:16

Todays Journal

June 29, 2003: Went out for lunch with a friend. Then went out for a walk along the beach. Hot and muggy day.

June 30, 2003: Worked all day. Took a long walk after dinner to fulfill my cardio portion of the plan. Don't ask about my eating. Couldn't get a snack in and because my patient was late, it cut into my lunch time too, I had a quick tuna sandwich and didn't eat the yogourt and fruit that I was going to have because I missed my snack.

July 1, 2003: Happy Canada Day. We went to Granville Island and had a picnic. Yes there was picnic food. And then my dad goes and buys 2 barbeque chickens with french fry nuggets. Afterwards, we went down to Canada Place. That was fun. It was a happening place.

July 2, 2003: Did 2 rounds of circuit training. Managed to do it in under an hour. Gotta like that.

July 3, 2003: Bad eating day. Had a hot dog at Costco. Then for dinner we stopped at the Flying Wedge Pizza for dinner. And furthermore, it was a hot evening and 7-11 was beckening Pierre for a Slurpee and I had a Mocha Freeze. And to top it all off we got home so late, I was too tired to excercise. Not good.

July 4, 2003: Started the morning right with Abs excercises and oatmeal with a protein drink for breakfast. Took Maddie for her swimming lessons and got my haircut. Got a lot cut off..at least 5lbs worth.

July 5, 2003: Managed to do 2 rounds of circuit training and went out for an evening walk for my cardio.

Date:

09 Jul 2003

Time:

01:33:26

Todays Journal

July 6, 2003: Only had to do 45 minutes of cardio today. Does walking around Ikea count? Nothing exciting about my eating just the usual.

July 7, 2003: Walked to my mother-in-law's today and followed the diet pretty well. Didn't get a chance to do any of the circuit training.

July 8, 2003: Today I rode my bike for the first time in a long time. Pierre towed the kids on a bike trailer and I was happy because I will be able to keep up with him. He was dragging an extra 70lbs. It was weird getting used to being on a bike again. The hills of White Rock really tested my gear changing skills. It's been so long since I've riden a bike that I couldn't remember which gear did what. I had so much fun on our short little ride that I told Pierre we should think about doing Salt Spring Island again. He would have to toll the kids though (I think that's the only way I would be able to keep up with him). And yes, I did do my circuit and abs too.

APRIL JOURNALS

April 30 

April 6

Followed nutritional plan pretty close. No workout today. Went to Ikea. Very hard to resist their cinnamon buns. They are the best and cheap too. Only a $1.00. You got to get them when they're fresh out of the oven.

April 5

Nothing exciting today. Took the kids to McDonalds with a friend. The kids played for 3 hours there. Good time to catch up with my friend. I was good too. Brought my own snack and just bought a coffee for myself. Wasn't intending to stay at McDonalds that long so I did end up getting a grilled chicken burger for lunch

April 4

Walked on the treadmill for 20 minutes. Getting a little nervous as my assessment date is coming up.

April 3

Was still hungry after my mid-morning shack and didn't know whether I could wait until lunch. Well, it turned out a bunch of stuff was happening (pick-up daughter from preschool, fed a hungry baby, etc.) and I missed my lunch. I think I had lunch at about 3:00. It's frustrating when things don't always work out the way you want it too...welcome to life. Did a full workout today. Amazed I was able to get it in with no interruptions

April 2

My boss took us out for dinner tonight. It's his annual "end of the year" dinner (he's late). What a dilemma. We went to the Keg. My idea of going out to dinner is McDonald's, Pantry , or if we feel like getting fancy ABC. In other words we don't go out much, especially now. So my opportunity to go out and have someone else paying for it does not come very often. I did pretty well in the beginning. No drinks (just water with lemon) and 1 slice of bread (and it was good), Had a prime rib with lots of vegetables and didn't even touch my potatoes, and in the end, (I feel like I'm at confession) I did share an ice cream pie with someone else. That was gooooood. My rule is if you're going to cheat make it a good one!

April 1

Not doing great today. I've noticed I've got a rash on my thighs. It's probably a food allergy. I wonder if it's from all the eggs I've been eating or maybe the protein powder. Has anyone else develop a rash? I haven't seem my doctor yet. She'll probably just tell me to decrease my egg and/or protein powder intake. Considering we only have a few choices of food I'm not ready to cut eggs out yet. Especially when the egg meals seem to keep me the full for a long time. I hope this settles down before Monday, because that is when my next assessment is and a red, blotchy rash is not very attractive.

MARCH JOURNALS

March 5

Well, I thought I should get my journal entry in before my consultation with John tomorrow. I'm a bit nervous about "the plan" but am looking forward to the new challenge. I've never been on a diet before so the concept of watching what I eat and how much I eat will certainly be the challenge. I'm glad my husband decided to do this with me so we will be accountable with one another. He will be good at keeping me on track. Just so there will be no temptations I decided to search our house and rid of any junk food. So for dinner tonight I had a bag of Cheesies and for dessert I had a Kit Kat bar (there was only half a bar though). And now our house is officially a junk-free home:)

March 6

My meeting with John today was a real wake up call. I knew I needed to lose some weight but what surprised me the most was the percentage of body fat...YUCK! This alone will be enough motivation to keep me going for a while. I'm glad that I know this now so I may be able to do something about it before I run into serious health issues. Once I got over that initial shock John and I were able to discuss the "plan" and although it will take time to organize my meals and workout time I feel the program will be attainable. This was a bit of a fear for me that the challenge will be too much over my head.

March 7

Had a busy day today. Had to go all the way into Vancouver for a meeting and never got home until 7:30. Then I had to deal with (sick) kids (meals, clean-up, bedtime, etc.). Wanted to wait for the kids to go to bed so I could review my program. But unfortunately I fell asleep while my husband was reading a bedtime story to my daughter. Tomorrow will be a better day.

March 8

Today has been a better day. I've followed my food plan pretty much to what John had written. I'll be doing my first workout later on this evening...wish me luck. 

March 13 

My mid-morning snack time has been the hardest to achieve.  I know I need to be more organized because by lunch I'm starving.  Today, I remembered to bring 1/2 an orange when I was out on my errands.  I also put some cheerios in the same container for my daughter as a snack.  When 11:00 came along I was looking forward to my snack and happy that I had remember to bring something along.  Then wouldn't you know it, when I turned around to get the

orange that was in the container that my daughter was munching her cheerios in she was also devouring into my orange.  How can I take away food from a little girl?  Tough decision...going hungry? or bullying the orange out of my daughter's hand.  Guess who won.

By the way, I woke up this morning quite sore from doing my weights last night.  I guess being sore is good.  A sense of achievement.

March 14 

Today I tried the egg salad sandwich.  It was good.  And I was surprised how full it kept me.  Maybe I should be having that for dinner too because I find the evenings is when I'm the most hungry.

March 15

 Worked today.  I managed to sneak a yogurt in for my mid-morning snack.  I hope my boss didn't mind, he gave me a dirty look when I was having it.  Hummmmm next time I'll have to not eat in front of him. 

Tonight we are going away to Vancouver.  We'll be in a hotel for 4 nights.  It will take some thought as to what to bring food wise.  There is a mini bar refrigerator and most of the room will be taken up with kids' milk (homo).  It will be hard to get our skim milk in so we'll just be using water with our protein drink and oatmeal at breakfast.  Lunch and dinners will be another challenge.  Pierre and I were thinking of having a Chicken McGrill and salad at McDonalds, which I think and hope will be a good choice.  Pierre will be in meetings all day so our choice will be limited to location and time and of course kid friendly.  Pierre also needs to be back for evening meetings, so that will also be tricky to find somewhere healthy and close.

March 16 

Oatmeal and protein powder with water is yucky!  I packed breakfast for us.  The hotel gave us $12.00 vouchers for their "exquisite" breakfast buffet.  Very tempting. But on day 1 I will be strong.  By the way, It was a week yesterday that I started my transformation...it seems like it's been longer than that.  But I can feel some difference in the clothes I wear.  My pants seemed longer...not the response I was waiting for but it will do.  I guess they aren't as tight so they are hanging looser.  Even my mom, who is my worst critic noticed a change.  She thought I lost 10 lbs...wishful thinking.

March 17

 Yeah!  I found my skim milk.  There are coffee shops all over Vancouver.  I can order a decaf no fat latte.  Probably a better choice than my usual coffee with cream and sugar.  Dinner last night was also good.  We found a restaurant that lets you choose your own food and how much of it you want (kinda like a buffet) even how much oil and seasoning you want.  Then they cook it in front of you.  It was a bit of a drive but worth it.

 Yesterday I also did a long walk (about 2 hours) down Robson Street.  Good news is I walked a good pace.  Bad news I had to pass ice cream shops, chocolates, sushi, Starbucks, pizza and a crepe cafe (maybe that is why I was going a good pace).  And of course I was hungry because it was time for my mid afternoon snack. What did I do you say?  I know the suspense is killing you.  I ended up at Safeway so I bought some yoghurt and headed back to the hotel for a yoghurt and apple.  Not as exciting but I know will not regret later on.

March 18

 Still sore this morning from yesterday's workout.  Each workout seems to get a bit better.  I think I'm getting the hang of the weights  I worked out in the gym at the hotel, a bit intimating because there was a lot of people there and I'm used to working out in my humble little basement all by myself.  Went to the Bay downtown yesterday too.  They have 2 full floors of women's fashion.  My eyes were glistening, it's been a while since I've shopped for clothes for myself.  Hey what was I thinking. I can't buy anything now...I'll have to wait for another 14 weeks:)

March 19

 Home sweet home.  We're heading back today.  Although it's been nice having not to plan for meals (other than which restaurant to go to), doing dishes, laundry and vacuuming it will be good to get into our own bed and get back on our routine.  I did manage to get on the bike one more time this morning.   Headed to the gym at 6:40am, which is an amazing feat in itself because I

am not a morning person.  I'm usually out of bed at around 8:00 and that is only if I hear kids screaming.   The gym had a table set up of coffee and tea, who would be drinking coffee and tea at the gym?  I know I'm no workout expert but isn't this a contradiction?

March 20

Not much happening today. Just trying to organize our household. I can't believe all the laundry that we accumulated from our trip. It's not a workout day so I just had to figure out what to eat. Hummm eggs or chicken?

March 21

Pierre made an egg burrito today (with no meat or sour cream) and it was quite good and filling too. It was a nice change from just an egg salad sandwich. I also worked out today. Didn't feel like it was a good one because my baby wanted to join me. As I was doing my crunches he was crawling all over me. And when I was on the treadmill he wanted to touch the belt as it was going (a little scary) that is when I decided to put him in the super saucer upstairs and turn Barney on. He was fine after that because he never cried...either that or I just couldn't hear him. All you parents out there with more than 2 children knows that a baby monitor doesn't get turned on as much the second time around.

March 22

Today was the first day that I didn't feel hungry all the time. It took about 2 weeks but I think my body has finally gotten the hang of this. I did very well with my meals except for dinner time. I was invited out and dinner wasn't served until 9:00. So I had broke down and ate a meatball...and some wine. And to top it all off, I had brought my daughter along as my date and she started to become an orangutan when dinner was being served. So I decided to pack it up and head home. I had a very late dinner. A little disappointed considering what a good day I had.

March 23

Started the morning walking on the treadmill. Was not looking forward to it because my legs were still sore from doing the weights a couple of days ago. I only have to walk for 18 minutes...how hard could that be. It was fine and I'm living to tell about it. Going out for Korean food tonight. Will be interesting to see how that goes. Chicken and vegetables. What restaurants don't have that on their menu. I should be okay.

March 24

The Korean restaurant was fun. I couldn't do the ordering because I can't read Korean. So while my friend was deciding what to order everyone I was busy in conversation with others around me. Turns out she hardly ordered any meat or vegetables. But lots of starches like sushi, dumplings, tempura and noodles. As the food was arriving I kept waiting and then about 10 dishes later there was only small very small portions of protein and vegetables. It was good. I miss my rice. Anyways, I felt so guilty today that I went out for 2 one hour walks. I must have been motoring because Pierre commented on keeping up with me and I was the one pushing the double stroller too.

March 25

I'm suppose too do my weights today and I like to do them later on in the day when my husband gets home from work so he can watch the kids. So still feeling bad about my dinners on the weekend I decided to go out for another long walk which included pushing a double stroller and going up and down hills. I think I over did it today because my legs are not working anymore. Now I really feel guilty. This is the first workout I've missed and later on in the evening I get a call from Phyllis to book an appointment for my second assessment. The pressure is on.

March 26

I work 2 days a week and stay home the rest to be with my kids. I look forward to going to work because lately people have been commenting on how much weight I have lost. I certainly don't hear this when I'm at home with the kids they don't care or notice if mommy's pants are getting looser. They just want me to feed them and play with them. The girls at work are great in keeping my spirits up and motivation to keep going.

March 27

Nothing much happened today. Followed my diet plan pretty close. One of my weak points have been my coffee (with cream and sugar). I only have one or two at the most a day. I feel like I really need it. I get so tired, I wish I could have more energy like some of the other challengers have been getting.

March 28

Went out for a walk today at around 9:00pm. Did not want to go but have been trying to get out as much as we can because the transformation package said it would be a good idea to do some form of exercise after supper. So although I wasn't into it, it did feel good to get some fresh air and to get out of the house. How can you tell it's Friday night. Swarms of kids hanging out on the streets and cars driving irrationally. We almost got hit tonight.

March 29

Was a bit disappointed today I wasn't able to get my full workout in. Had to work later than expected then when I got home had to do the meal and kid thing and squeeze in a workout before heading out to Gators tonight. Was also sorry that we couldn't stay long after the cooking session because we had to get home to pick up the kids before they fell asleep at Grandma's.

March 30

Had lunch with a friend today. Did pretty well. I ordered an omelet and salad (pretty close to our menu) and they were accommodating to changes to the meal (they couldn't make it with egg whites only but did take out the cheese). Finished my workout that I missed yesterday too.

March 31