Hi!

I'm so glad you posted a little something here T!
You are awesome, thanks for the kind words. You write so wonderfully, I'd love to take some lessons from you! Started on my Seasource 7 day cleanse today. I love to do this and I hadn't in the past couple of months, I had been doing it monthly since NTC last year and starting today I am reminded of how much I missed it.
I am totally dismayed I can't be at NTC, a reception with Dana, new product launch, you're all so fortunate to be going, and the venue is so much fun! You get to hang out with San and the awesome Abundance Team. I miss you all and wish I could be there to bond! I won't dwell on it....I will look forward to next year, as we all parade across the stage as new RVPs!!
Much Love and Affection,
Jumpin' Gin

Week Two - We're Cookin'

Gals -

Just wanted to put a note on the blog to let you all know how proud I am of this group. We are actually leading a team of people who are coming back each week. This is only going to grow from here. I love Mark for giving us the tools and the confidence to bring this thing to life. Props to Gerri and San for taking the lead on the development of each session. Your passion and commitment are inspiring.

Kate, Gin, Suzanne - you are the soul of this group. I am so proud to be walking this path with all of you.

We are changed, empowered wonderful women.

Love, Tee

Better

Mornin' Ladies!! Feeling almost human again! Much better today, thanks.....
I think I may have lost the 5 pounds I was looking to lose, not a good way though and I am sure if I drink only water for the next few days I will gain it back, because of the way I lost it.
Oh Kate, so sorry about your accident. I wonder, what's great about it? Needed a new car?
First day back to my pilates, felt good, so easy to get out of the habit, so I will get back on track and I started that today. Being hopeful and trusting, I am where I am supposed to be and good times are already in place.
Thanks for the work on the program San and Gerri! Hang in there Kate, that was a good excuse to go crazy with food and you didn't! Make it a Great Weekend T and Suzanne and I will talk with you all Monday, except our 'One Happy Island' Girl, have a great trip Suzanne!
Love You All!
Gin

I got in a bad car accident yesterday and the worse part...it was my fault.....I was on my lunch hour going to see my therapist and BAM....the craziest part is that my therapist got in a car accident at approximately the same time. I've been shaken up quite a bit, but I didn't blow everything by stuffing my face. I just went to bed and slept for a long time.
I'm doing better with food....thank God.
Love, Kate

Checking In

Hi All,
Busy day. I met Gerri at 8:30 to walk and am just walking in now 11pm from a Networking event and social time afterwards. I am very tired tonight.
Ginny, hope that you are feeling better.
Gerri, thanks for letting Kate know that we are at 6 PM on the 16th.
Kate, so glad that you are beginning to feel better!
Tee, missed you the other night though I saw the pics of Larry's party on Face book and it looked like good times with great friends.
Suzanne, Tee and all ... hope that you'll check in soon. Love, San
PS... still on track!!

Keeping On Keeping On

It's amazing how easy it is to get out of the habit of checking the blog and checking in. Life really does creep in and before I know it a few days have passed.

Kate - glad you're starting to feel better and are continuing to look at options. And I do understand what you mean when you say you miss Mark's book. Sometimes as I'm reading his book I feel like I hear his voice tho - so try to visualize that!

We'll soon be on the 8pm call schedule but not just yet! Next week our call is Monday at 6 pm and hopefully everyone can get on because it will be our last call before our new program begins. I've got two people that are considering this, one already uses autoship so she meets all qualifications. I think the idea of allowing the first call to be complementary may help with both of them - thanks Tee for that suggestion!

Weight is maintaining. I think I'm going to have to push a little extra the next few days to break thru to 141 which I really am committed to doing this week. I love to hear that San is on track for her goal. And I'm sure our laps at the mall today helped too!

Take care everyone - blog even if it's just to say hi!

Love - Gerri

Groan....you can tell I haven't been reading the blogs or I would have been on the call, sorry...and oh Ginny...I don't get wireless service at my home so my cell is turned off when I'm home.
I will be better about readin and writing...Yesterday I went to Boston to meet with a Bariatric Surgical team to discuss that type of surgery to see if it would be a fit for me. It was a tremendously emotional day for me. I don't know how I ever got to this point...lots of denial.
Anyway, generally I'm doing better and I hope everyone else is too. I must admit I do miss hearing Mark's voice.
Is the next call on Monday at 8?

Love, Kate

Keep Me Accountable!

I shared on the last call that I committed to a mini challenge with one of our first new members, Tina DeLuca for a blast of effort between the 7th and 20th. Ten pounds ... which because I had regained five will take me to 169!! I will be so thrilled to break that 170 lb mark. I am ready to shake things up and get going again before the launch of our Program.
To date I am right on track! I am asking you all to keep me accountable! Love, San

Yard Work - Great Work Out!

What a beautiful, beautiful day. I spent the greater part of yesterday working a Women's Fair - which did yield some sales and new contacts - so that was good. But I missed being able to really enjoy the weather. So this morning Mark and I got out in the yard and did some Spring cleaning. Raking, picking up branches, weeding, pulling away the old dead leaves to reveal new sprouts. It felt good to do something physical.

The windows are open - which the cats really love! And I'm listening to birdsong and the neighborhood waking up as well. I love the energy of Spring!

I'm looking forward to our call. I feel like I did better this week even tho I didn't lose that 'one more pound', but I was more consistently in the 142-143 range so I know I'm ready for the next push to reach my goal.

Tonight's Call

Good Morning Team Abundance,

Just preparing for our call tonight and wanted to remind you all that we are at 8:30 so that Suzanne can get home from work.

Looking forward to hearing from you all then. Love, San

I think I might have shared this before but I love it so ...

'You as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection'. The Buddha

Miracle Mind Set

I just started to read, again, Wayne Dyer's book '10 Secrets for Success and Inner Peace' and this part I had to share. Mark's book is inspiring me to read all these good books I have.

'Refuse to allow yourself to have low expectations about what you're capable of creating. As Michelangelo suggested, the greater danger is not that your hopes are too high and you fail to reach them; it's that they are too low and you do.'

We can do whatever we set our beautiful open minds to!
Love You All You Beautiful Women!
Gin

New Day!

Proud of myself, got my Pilate's workout done 3 days in a row, and counting.....going to try every day this week to honor our commitment.
San, I don't think it was grouchy as much as a level of frustration and yearning for this to succeed. I don't think you need to apologize, it was a wake up for me....
SO.......I re-commit to our Abundant Healthy Living program. Let me know what else I can do, other than to be there on the calls!
Ice and snow here too. It was too cold to shovel yesterday and blowing like crazy, but now it's a mess out there and my neighbor Sue got stuck in my driveway trying to escape hers!
Love You All!
More later.....
Gin

Met my commitment for extra movement!

Whew! Mother Nature gave me the opportunity to kick it up a notch with exercise today. Lots of snow and a driveway to clear so I can make it to the Road Show!

Now I just need a plow to come down our sidestreet at least once to make it easier to get thru.

It's definitely pretty outside. AND I'm glad the snow has stopped!

Let's stay in touch ...

Hi All,

I apologize that I was grouchy tonight. I just want us to pull this off and that is going to take each of us making a commitment to the Program's success.

Yes, Tee, you have the schedule correct. Hopefully it will settle out as we go forward.

I attended a Meditation Retreat on Saturday and have been literally exhausted since then. I think that a Meditation practice is going to be a huge step in my personal growth and wellness so I know that the effort that this course is taking will be worth it.

Tonight Team~Abundance decided to set another short term goal for next Sunday evening, March 8th! We will loose one more pound from where we weigh in the morning and we will increase our level of physical movement this week ... one more mile, lap, day etc.

Let's stay in touch and cheer each other on throughout the week. Love, San

Sunday call

Do we have a call tonight? I just saw Gerri's post. I think my e-mail has been sporadic when I pick it up from my Blackberry. I figured the call for tomorrow was canceled because of the road show but I don't remember that we moved it to tonight. I am traveling to California on the 5th and will be back late on the 6th.

I have the calls on Monday's at 8:00pm going forward. Is that correct? I will miss the call on March 9th because it is my husband's 40th birthday and we are going out to celebrate.

I have our EHF starting on the 23rd. That is still correct? I am really looking forward to that!!

I have hit 164 on the scale and am looking forward to 160.

I have one Arbonne event booked for March and am working to get others - one-on-one's, presentations, re-launch party, etc. Looking forward to getting some Mojo back in my business.

I apologize for being sooo disconnected. I promise I am working hard to get some balance back to all areas of my life and begin to play full oput again.

Somebody please give me the calendar update or I will continue to be a mess!

Love you guys.
Tee

Gerri - SOOOOO proud of the breakthrough. You are awesome!

Broke thru my plateau!

Whoo Hoo - scale showed 142 this morning. I've been between 143 and 145 for quite a few weeks. So this puts me 4 pounds from my NTC goal weight! And I am committing to that by the end of March! What a nice end to the week.

Now to make sure that I can report that I maintained or bettered that number by our call on Sunday. :-D

So much easier when I'm busy

This has been a good and busy day. And being so busy definitely keeps me from letting jawz in. I had a networking breakfast this morning - had fuel before I went so I only had fruit and coffee - and met some great new contacts. I had a great pilates session this afternoon. It was amazing as I was doing some of the exercises to really see how my body is changing and toning. I am so glad I had gelee when I got home and tonight a SeaSoak bath is a must!

Getting fit and being fit is so worth it!

Let's stay connected ...

Hello Team
I am having a good week so far ...
I walked about 4 miles on Monday and again Wedsnesday and will again tomorrow morning.
I did an hour Pilates lession and have been bouncing here.
My food has been healthy with small portions.
Since I have already re-lost my one pound, I can't wait to see what I can loose by Sunday night.
Today, I am having a great day of Arbonne work and I will present later this evening.
Tomorrow is wildly full of appointments and Rog and I have plans in the evening. Saturday I have my first in person meditation class!
Let's stay connected and lift each other up!
Love, San

OK ... back on track and loving the feeling!

My scale liked me this morning too! Just a couple of days of making great decisions and positive intention and my weight it back down by more than two pounds. Now, I am only 1.5 away from my low weight and I will begin making progress towards my next goal.
I think this has lots to do with how long I have held the weight. I remember reading that recent weight gain is easier for the body to release than long held weight so jump right back on the wagon and that weight will readily drop off!
Here's to our success this week and talk with you all on Sunday at 8:30. xoxo, San

Universe gave me a Thumbs Up this morning

I don't think I did anything different, but getting on the scale this morning put me at 143 - my best weight to date. I keep seeing higher numbers, but today 143 is back. I'm going to take this as the Universe approving of me RECOMMITTING and breaking through this plateau by one pound or more by next Sunday!

Puttin' On The Ritz

Oh I was born to live like that! Spent the night at The Ritz with my Girl last night, lucky girl, she gets to be there all week. All about service and it was luxurious. I am sorry to have missed the call, no reception in the room, or the hallway, or the lobby and it was 20 degrees out with a howling wind! Glad I got to connect in the morning. I will give My Sandra Lee a call and catch up on things.
I'm with you T, I need to relaunch my business and myself. We can do this. My daughter and I were talking and she agreed, never give up! I loved hearing Sandra's excitement about our future.
Keep up the good work with the weight T, spa day will be awesome! Holding my own with Kicking Butts, now the pants feel a little tight again....time to step up the activity and be vigilant about fuel and poison!
Love You All!
Ginny

Someone PLEASE organize my life!!!

I moved the call to Tuesday's at 8:00. Was this not a permanent move? Oh my gosh. Gals, I am a mess. I was working in my office on my six pillars book. Love, Tee

OUR CALL IS TONIGHT AT 8 PM!

Good Morning, Team~Abundance!

I woke up this morning with a sense of excitement stirring in my heart ... something big is about to happen to us, I can feel it!
Create a beautiful day for yourself, as only YOU can! Love, San

Now on to my business

I have been thinking a lot about my business. Last Monday I had a wonderful chat with San and Gerri about how stuck and even paralyzed I feel about my business. I have been having trouble finding balance across all of the areas of my life - work, family, health and fitness, recreation, and my Arbonne business. My motivation and energy have been really love lately.

But lately I have started to realize that I need to build a healthy and fit business alongside my healthy and fit body.

I know that some of you have already embraced the concept of applying Mark's lessons to your business. I guess I have been slow to make the association. But I am ready. I am going to use the time with the team at San's tomorrow to re-center and re-align myself with the people and the reasons I started this business. Arbonne and my focus and desire can give me and my family the time and financial freedom we desire and DESERVE.

I am planning to relaunch my business in March by following the six pillar system. I am re establishing my goals and approach promoting one step and one goal at a time.

I hope all of you are doing well. Sending love and good mojo.

Tee

Milestone Achieved

I had set a first milestone for weight loss of 165. Today I stepped on the scale and I was at 165. I am sure the braces have something to do with it but I'll take it. At 160 I hit the spa.

Love you gals.
Tee

Good Morning!

So, I have done my pilates, ready to shower up for work. Another healthy fit day for me, wish I could say the same about my financial fitness. The lovely DOR decided to take the money I owe them right out of my bank account, wiped me out, and of course I had monies written against the money I had in my account, like rent!! Oh My, I have to do something about this! I have never been financially fit so I commit to doing that!
Great call the other night, it gave me something to look forward to!
Love You All!
XO
Gin

Whew! Did my Six!

Today was a Mall Walk day. San wasn't able to come because she was feeling a little under the weather - so send her some healthy thoughts today!

Anyway, I went and was determined to do my six laps. Which is definitely harder without anyone to talk to. I kept talking to myself about maybe doing 5 or cutting thru on the last lap and only doing half. And then I kept thinking of that scale and stepping on it and seeing me at 138. So I kept taking one more step and one more step. It was still a push, but I did it!

So here's to doing Just One More!

Enough of this Plateau!

I am so looking forward to our call tonight. Talking with all of you always helps me RECOMMIT!

My weight has stayed pretty much steady this month. Gained a couple of pounds then lost them again so I'm back where I started at the beginning. I am starting to talk to the scale to tell it I'm tired of those numbers! I'm still 5 pounds from my goal for NTC and I am ready, eager and willing to make progress again! My goal is to get at least 2 more pounds off this month and then cross that finish line for my goal weight in March.

I am so ready for Spring and looking for ways to put more spring in my step now. Can't wait to hear everyone's voices tonight!

Busy days for us all ...

Well, it's been a busy and very quiet week. Thanks to those of you that have blogged. Let's step it up for this week! I do love hearing from my inspiring friends.

So far, I have only heard from one of you about moving our call to tomorrow evening, Tuesday, Feb 17th at 9. I will just be leaving a networking event so I will call from the road. I hope that you can let me know that you will be on ahead of time.

Adding to our complicated schedule ... Dana, Donna and friends are beginning a weekly training call in lieu of the old 3 B Calls. This rotating call will support the new Six Pillars Training System and it will be every Monday night at, you guessed it, 9 PM so I am going to suggest that we do our call at 8 PM going forward. Life is so busy! We can confirm that on our call.

I am looking forward to notes for Session II of our Program so I hope to hear from you all soon.

NTC is only 58 days from now!! I want to lose ten more pounds before then and I am excited to share that Rog is finally ready to do this with me. We begin a new (RECOMMIT) tomorrow!

Love, San

Fourth Grade Flash Back

Today I got braces on my teeth. I got them to correct a cross bite. Thank God for protein shakes. I cannot eat and frankly I can't imagine ever being able to eat again. I know that is crazy but right now that's how I feel. Maybe the braces will help me cross the plateau.

Have a wonderful long weekend.

Love, Tee

Think of How Far We've Come

Wow - I just went back to October and looked thru a few of those early blogs - some that I wrote and some from the rest of you. It really is inspiring. We have come a long way. We do think differently. And it felt good to read thru them and to soak up the feelings in those early blogs - the conflicting emotions, the early victories and the early setbacks. And seeing that we don't have to give setbacks power. That's huge. To not feel deflated and defeated, and instead be encouraged and supported. Small steps, consistently taken, over a long period of time yields pretty significant changes.

Reading where we've been only confirms to me that I am in the presence of some pretty awesome people. Love you all!

Missing Us

I know it's been a long week for me. I don't know if it's been weather fluxuations or something else, but I've been up and down with migraines all week. Late this afternoon I finally felt like even the residual effects have gone. Whew! It doesn't happen like that often, but when it does, I really do have to limit what I do.

Anyway, I'm back - ready to hear from each of you and what you're doing. Kate - are you back to your swimming routine? Ginny - how many days smoke free are you now? Suzanne - I know you're out there! At least I see and/or hear San and Tee a bit more often since we're in the same area.

Anyway - we've come too far to give up on this so help me fire up this blog again! I miss you!

Creating a great day!

Hello Team!

First, thanks to Gerri for getting that note out last night. I was driving and it really helped to not have to memorize the important points.

Please check in and let me know if next Tuesday the 17th at 9 PM will work for you for our call.

I have had a couple of days of too much social eating and I am recommitting to food as fuel vs the focal point of the day! It's so easy to slip into old habits that don't serve me.

I am looking forward to creating a great day tomorrow ... beginning with a walk in the morning, Dentist Appt, Client Appt, a two shake day, a VP Call with Dana, my Pilates session and a dinner networking meeting.
Love, San

Wow Gerri....I remember that...when Mark asked you to eliminate that social engagement from your life and I thought...Whoa, tough one!
Congratulations on all the work you've done.
I'm on lunch at work eating my salad.
Looking forward to the call tonight.
Love, Kate

Signs of Change

I remember when we started coaching with Mark and I talked about the St. Michael's Wine Festival Weekend. Mark asked me to imagine not going. That seemed like it would be such a sacrifice. I would never have bet that I'd change my mind.

Well, lo and behold, Mark (my Mark) and I just told our friends Gary and Pam that we had decided to bow out of this weekend. And I feel GOOD about that decision! I had gotten to the point that I was looking at that weekend as an obligation because we had told our friends we were going. And I was NOT looking forward to being surrounded by excess and by jawz and all his friends in close quarters.

I still like wine, haven't given it up, but I definitely drink it less often and savor it more when I do. Yet we definitely have far less activities now where wine is part of the picture.

So Mark - I'd say this is proof that I really am thinking differently, my priorities and habits are changing and I owe it to you and to my Empowerful! Health and Fitness partners!

Thank YOU!

So How's Non-Smoker Ginny Doing?

Hi Ginny - thinking about you and wondering what day you're on with helping your lungs breath fresh air! Give us a quick blog update before our call tomorrow!

Our Call Tomorrow Evening ...

Hi All,

Well, it certainly has been a full weekend for me ... in more ways than one! Ugh!

I am looking forward to our call tomorrow night and I am sorry that Kate can't join us. So great to hear that you are feeling better though!!

I was thinking, we chose 6 PM for Mark and the Chicago time zone. Let's reconsider a time that really serves us and our families. I know this hasn't been great for most of us.

Let's do 6 tomorrow but come prepared with your thoughts about what will be best for you.
I will be calling from my car phone as I have a 7 PM presentation in Annapolis.

Love you all, San

Happy Sunday Everyone.....
I won't be able to be on the call tomorrow night...My mom has a Doc's appt. at 5:40 in Harwich.
I have been hanging in. At my Dr.'s appt.....he doubled the same medicine again. I wasn't happy about it, but I actually think it might be the trick. I'm feeling somewhat better....so who knows...I sure don't.
Now I just have to clean up my food and my routine.
I love reading the blogs.
Love, Kate

Time Flies

It has been a busy couple of days, and ones where I have been a bit lax, but RECOMMITTING is always in store and I'm ready to jump in again and go for the gold!

As one of the DMs said today at the AM Retreat - and I'll paraphrase it a little - IT works if YOU work. And as San and I saw at Arundel Mills the other day - FIT HAPPENS! But we know it only happens if WE recommit every day and take those steps!

Tonight's next step is to give this body a good night's rest.

Love you all!

Where is everyone?!

Eating Out - Making Different Decisions

Mark called and asked that we meet at Rams Head for dinner - new beer being released and he had a long day. So I went early, ordered his beer, for me a glass of wine and waited for him to get there. I used the time to look over the menu.

It's amazing how so much of the menu was NOT appetizing. Fried, or over pasta, or 'heaping' mashed potatoes - just didn't trip my trigger. I ended up having the Ahi Tuna Starter for dinner (off the appetizer section) and feeling very full and satisfied.

It felt good to make this choice. It was probably one of the healthiest things on the menu and it tasted great too - and it even had seaweed for the greens! All very Yummy.

My healthy taste buds are doing just fine, thank you!

Figure 8 Chocolate Protein Bars

Here it is ladies! I'm actually giving you a 1/2 recipe because this is perfect for an 8x8 pan and these bars go a LONG WAY! These should probably freeze well too...need to try that! Enjoy!

1 c natural peanut butter
7/8 c honey
1 1/8 c Chocolate Go Easy! Protein powder
1 1/2 c dry uncooked oatmeal

*** for more fiber, add 1/8 c Go Anywhere! Fiber Booster and do only 1 c Protein powder

• In a microwave-safe bowl, combine peanut butter and honey, heat in microwave for 70-90 seconds, until it easily stirs
• Add Protein powder and oatmeal (and optional fiber), and mix thoroughly. It will be thick.
• Press into an 8x8 pan. (I actually line the pan with wax paper or plastic wrap to make it easier to remove.)
• Refrigerate for 1 hour or until solid enough to cut into bars. (I found it easier to cut when I took out of pan and put on cutting board.)
• Wrap each bar in foil or plastic wrap and store in refrigerator
• Makes 16 (2x2") bars.

208 Cals; 9g Fat; 7 g Protein; 28 g Carbohydrate; 2g Dietary Fiber

Note: cut bars into 1" square pieces for a nice snack with about 50 calories - it really is satisfying!

I'm going to the psych this afternoon....I'm nervous because nothing's changed and I don't want him to think that I'm a whiney so and so. Yuck. I only swam Tuesday this week. I'm really having a hard time doing anything positive.
I'll report in after I see him.
Love, Kate

Arbonne is World Class and WE are already there!!

I hope you are all on this call ... if not, it will be recorded and it is thrilling.
We are so in the right place at the right time. Love you all, San

A Snowy Day Here ...

It is 8 am and the snow will keep me home today ... I love the prospect of the entire day and ALL I can make happen in my life and business!
I did have to miss walking with Gerri though so I promised her I would do lots of treadmill, rebounder and I am sure I will add some snow shoveling!
It is so beautiful outside that I am also going to promise myself sometime to sit by the fire, journal and read while watching the snow in the woods.
More later, off to enjoy my protein shake. Hugs to all!

Fessing Up

Ok - remember that post where I battled between Panera's and Burger King.....well...today Burger King won. And I'm not even sure why. I can just see Mark having a field day with this.

I had a good morning. Made a few calls, went to an appt - tho my client didn't show - crossed wires, we rescheduled for next week. All ok. Then went shopping for clothes, needed a couple more pairs of slacks that fit - more size 8 - I still have to look at the tag a couple of times to make sure it really is that size. So still feeling good. Left Kohls parking lot and my car drove me right thru the drivethru at Burger King (must have given my keys to jawz). I got a Whopper JR (at least it was a Jr!) w/Cheese and Onion Rings - I did pay extra for bottled water instead of soda - hey - it was a small victory!

So I sat down and ate it all (after taking my Going, Going Gone supplement - can't forget that!). I have to admit, it tasted good, tho not great. I know it wasn't healthy. I know, I know. But, it happened. And now I'm over it.

I'm 5 pounds from my goal weight. Even that sounds incredible. And I know I may be facing one of those walls about actually being under 140 and being able to maintain that weight without totally depriving myself. Talk about a weight I never thought I'd see again. So, this is really about keeping the faith and believing I can do this and celebrating having more energy and enjoying the way I look in clothes and so much more!

Recommitting. Recommitting. Recommitting.

Life on the Road

So I really miss being at the DA in Maryland. I just ordered room service and was sitting in my room watching the Biggest Loser. Irony anyone?

I started reading Dr. Oz's book YOU Being Beautiful (if you haven't read Dr. Oz's YOU series of books - please do. They are fun, easy to read, and they are so informative without being dry) on the plane this morning. I love it. One of the chapters has a Yoga Routine and an Exercise Band Routine that you can do anywhere. So, I decided to do Yoga while I was watching the Biggest Loser.

Since I travel so much, it's time for me to incorporate the EHF principles into my life on the road.

Love you all - Tee

Doing it all ...

Oh my goodness, it is hard to do it all ... focus on the business and up crops jaws.
I am fighting the desire to go eat and I have aleady had breakfast and lunch today.
I will bounce on my rebounder instead.
I need a good chat with my support team so I am looking forward to tonight.
Love, San

Hi All
I went for my swim with Brian yesterday. We love to go together on Sat. mornings and for a while after, I was actually in a good mood. I'm planning on going in the morning. I hope the bed doesn't win. Also looking forward to the call.
Love, Kate

Month End Frenzy

I hope that you all are enjoying this beautiful Sunday!

Sorry that I have been quiet, I went into hyper activity to pull out the month and all that we had riding on it. I am happy to report that I signed on ten (one new and nine re-signs) and twenty Welcome Back Specials!! Wow, I have never had a month like this and it feels good.

So, I am behind in most else and I apologize that it slowed down getting out the invitation but it is back on the top of my list.

I have loved reading the recent entries and look forward to our time together on Monday at 6 PM! Love, San

Ellie Krieger - A Healthy Fit Example

First of all, I have to smile to think I actually watch a cooking show - cooking has never been high on my list of activities to pursue - I do love having a husband that enjoys cooking! But with my new healthy-fit focus, I find myself enjoying Ellie Krieger's Healthy Appetite show on Food Network.

And I just borrowed a magazine from a friend with a short article on her - which has given me even more reason to like her. She really thinks like an Empowerful! Healthy Fit person.

Check out the following link to read her article. http://www.experiencelifemag.com/issues/january-february-2009/whole-life/an-appetite-for-change.html

It's short and very worth the read. She kept saying things that echoed our E!H&F principles. I'd vote for making Ellie an honorary member!

Hmmm....I may see an Ellie Krieger cookbook in my future. :-D

My Wii Age

We got a Wii and A Wii Fit for Christmas. I have been using it off and on since Christmas night. It is fun. Tonight I re-did my Fit Test and my Wii Fit age went down - from 53 to 48. I was excited. That means I am making progress. It will be great when my Wii Fit age is the same as my real age or younger.

One day at a time.

Recommit!

Love, Tee

Dinner tonight

Mark and I went out to dinner with friends - Baltimore Restaurant week - went to The Bicycle Bistro. And my least favorite course was dessert - what a change. When looking at the menu and the choices, I really didn't see one that I really wanted but because we were doing the Prie Fixe selections I had to pick one. In the past, it was always the best way to finish a meal out - have a cup of coffee and a rich dessert. I could have skipped the dessert altogether and just had the french pressed coffee.

Instead I savored my first 2 courses - Squash soup and then Salmon with fresh vegetables. And I brought half the salmon home because it was a large piece. I had one glass of wine with dinner along with 2 glasses of water (and my Going, Going Gone supplement!). I did finish with decaf coffee and had the Bananas Foster Bread Pudding - I think I had a total of 3 small bites of this. Just didn't have the taste for it.

Eating out was still an indulgence and I know I shared a bit of this with jawz, but all in all I'm proud of making healthier choices.

Panera's vs Burger King

Major cravings for lunch and I was gravitating towards Burger King...those cravings seem to happen once or twice a year so it's not like it's a weekly event. But, thankfully, we have a Panera's in the same shopping center. I still ordered and ate too much (soup and sandwich) but it was still a better choice than Burger King. I must admit I feel over-full. Guess that means my stomach is getting more used to a grazing approach to food as well. Now that I have that craving behind me I can get back to the business of healthy living!

RECOMMIT seems to be the word of the week!

The bed won this morning....rats...It's such a split second that the decision is made. Tomorrow is a definite swim since Brian and I go together.
San can you tell us about the sugar cane in the new shake? And a question for everyone else....how are you liking it?
Have a great day everyone,
Love, Kate

Hi girls...
I went to the Y and did my routine before work...I don't know why it's so hard to get out of bed all of a sudden. My brain was really trying to talk myself out of it, but the H&F me won this time. I'm also blogging...however the food stinks...eee-gads...sugar and carbs is all I think about at work...recommit,recommit as Tee just said.
Love, Kate

Today was a JAWZ Day...

They are bound to happen. Recommit. Recommit. Recommit.

Love, Tee

Thursday - got my mojo going

Morning Mojo - woke around 6 and thought about staying snuggled in the warm covers but then I remembered Ginny and San both saying they were stepping up morning routines. So I actually did some of my stretching before getting up. Then made the bed so I wouldn't be tempted to get back in! My morning also included Pilates so I feel good about all of that!

I'm going to get Mark to show me the cooking software we have so I can plug in the Protein Bar recipe and get that out. These bars really are tasty and I don't need a very big piece to keep me going. And I just ordered The UltraMind Solution - can't wait to get into that.

Looking forward to Kate's Blog and Suzanne's too! I expect to hear from you!

Morning Mojo

I'm really getting this morning thing - I, too, have gotten a bit too relaxed about it. So, not only am I going to get up when I wake up, like Ginny, I'm also going to do something to get my mojo going - in honor of Kate.

I want to do something first thing in the morning to just warm me up, so I will alternate between 10-15 minutes of stretching and 10-15 minutes of elliptical. Just enough to stir up those brain and body cells!

Today's exercise inspired by weather

Well, maybe 'inspired' is not the right word. Our driveway was a skating rink and even tho the temp got up to around 40, it didn't warm up fast enough to get the driveway cleared without help. At least the ice was melted underneath, making it easier to dislodge. Still a workout.

I may need to soak tonight!

Updating....I went to the psych last Thurs. and he actually increased the medication I'm on. I feel absolutlely no different. I see him again next week. The wait to feel "normal" is excrutiating. I really need help tho', because my eating is so outta control...what the heck..I just had a salad, apple fritter, pistachio muffin, and about 20 choc kisses. I'm worried I'm going to start treating the last 3 months like a diet that I failed on like everything else. My water jogging is becoming erratic. I went Monday, but not today or yesterday and not at all last week.
Ginny we gotta get out of that bed and get our mojo working.

So, I'm going to re-commit this minute....

I'm going to blog every day no matter how I feel.

Love to you all....
Gerri you look like a babe.
Love, Kate

The Early Bird

I resolve to getting up when I wake up! I have been lazing in bed after waking up, I've been blaming it on the weather and no cigarette with my coffee....no more of that. There will be no excuse for me to skip my exercise before work! And like every day I commit to eating healthy!
Looking forward to seeing the 'Units' for Healthy Living!
XO
Ginny

Sun Salutations

OK, so the thing I am going to add to bump up my results is morning Sun Salutations! I have been wanting to get back into Yoga and this is the right time!!
Downward Dog, San

From Mark ...

I was just brought up to date on ALL of you by San and … wow!!!! How exciting… I love that you’ve kept this team going!!! And I love that you never give up on each other (or yourselves)… and if someone seems to be falling behind… go after them and pull them back up.


CREATE a GREAT week!!!!
With love, support & appreciation,
Mark

Enjoy this beautiful snowy day ...

Great call last night though we totally missed you Kate.

We decided with just 11 weeks until NTC we all wanted to crank it up a notch so we would each think of something we could embrace and post it to share with each other. If we all add six new actions we will fly off this plateau.

Progress is being made on our program and more info will roll out soon. For now be thinking of Team members and clients that you can invite to the Healthy Living program.

Enjoy this beautiful snowy day. Love, San

PS. The H&F ME just got back in from shoveling the front walk and getting the recycling bins and mail. The old me would have waited for Rog to do these things. Breathing cold fresh air and moving, I wasn't even cold.

Figure 8 Protein Bars - Yummy!

At the Wellness Event on Sat, we were able to taste Protein bars made with our Figure 8 Protein shake - the recipe is still written based on our old protein shake but I took a stab at it anyway. Will bring some of this batch to try at the Bethesda Opp meeting tonight and if they pass - I'll redo the recipe and post it! So stay tuned!

Wonderful and Positive Changes

Good Morning Team~Abundance,

It's been great to see our lists of all the wonderful and positive changes we have made by embracing Mark's teachings and through inspiring and supporting each other.

I am looking forward to our call tonight at 6 PM. 'See' you then! Love, San

Love the New Pic

Looks like you gals had fun. Can't wait to learn all the great stuff you heard from Dr. Judy V. Suzanne - good to see you again - even if it is a photo! Can't wait to see you at NTC.

Love, Tee

The Best Outlook

Hello Team! I know you have no uses for excuses! So I am just going to go ahead and post how this whole experience has changed me, for the better!
I have become even more positive about my health and fitness
I take it more seriously as I have to admit I am on the other side of my life, the over 50 side
I am much more aware of how I eat and what I eat
I am taking my physical well being to heart and am exercising more than I have in the past
I quit smoking which is a major change of my nature
This whole experience has enhanced all the work I have done on myself over the years
A couple of years ago I resolved to always look at the glass half full and I had a good run of it. So many things and books and talks with Sandra have all aligned with what I try and do with myself
It's been a challenging year and I wouldn't say I was over the hump yet, but I will. Finances are stopping me from doing so amny things. I will continue to focus my energy on my whole well being, health and fitness right there on the top of the list.
I have learned how to commit and I am able to do it daily, that was a new concept, it has blocked failure from getting a hold of me!
Thank You All for the inspiration and support.
Love You Much!
Ginny

Wonderful Nutritional Info from Judi V today!

What a great day! And I loved sharing it with San and Suzanne! San and I drove up to NJ and Suzanne met us at a Health and Wellness event hosted by Rebecca Thompson and featuring Dr Judi Valentine. Judi's talk was based on a book called the UltraMind Solution by Dr Mark Hyman which was fascinating. In his book, Dr Hyman proposes that all modern diseases have their roots in 7 biological imbalances. Judi talked to us about this main information in a way that was mind altering - so much to learn. I'm sure you'll be hearing nuggets about this from all three of us in future blogs, on Monday Morning Forum calls and more.

For now, I just wanted to say that learning today was exciting and empowering. I'm so glad Suzanne was able to share the day and a healthy lunch afterwards with us. Suzanne - you will blog about this! And San will be getting Judi's presentation as well to help us share this information better.

More to come...you're going to love this stuff!!

Evidence of Healthy Changes

This list is incomplete, but I wanted to start posting it. Doing this is definitely empowering!

• Size 8 jeans Fit! and I actually believe that size 6 is achievable AND maintainable!
• I recognize when foods I eat are poison and make the decision more and more not to eat them.
• I am now doing pilates with an instructor once a week – gladly
• I eat something healthy before going over friends or going to a party – knowing that there will be more poison than fuel.
• I pick up magazines more often that have health related topics and read them
• I am more willing to make the healthy choice when going out with friends, even when others don’t.
• I stand and move around more when I’m talking on the phone
• I feel like I’ve missed something in my day if I haven’t done something to exercise my body, whether that’s walking, elliptical, pilates or something else.
• I so get that guilt doesn’t help; recommitting daily is empowering.
• I stopped Capitalizing jawz – I took back my power to make healthy choices
• I don’t NEED dessert when we go out to eat. I don’t see it as something I deserve any more. I deserve to make healthier choices.
• Social events don’t revolve around wine; I still enjoy wine now and then, but it’s importance is diminished.
• I find myself applying fuel vs poison thinking with my business as well – finding habits and thoughts that don’t serve and working on replacing them with empowering ones.
• I actually enjoy trying on clothes now – especially in smaller sizes!
• I feel the passion deep inside when I talk about Arbonne's Figure 8 products and the work we're doing in our E!H&F program.

Ways I am Changed

Hello Gals -

Sorry to be late with the assignment. Here we go:

• I am aware
• I have stopped beating myself up when I fall off the wagon
• Each day really is a new day
• My pants are loose - I am almost a real size 8
• I feel committed - I am not afraid to gop against the grain and make the healthy choice when we go out
• I can see myself at my goal
• I am open to all possibilities
• I am learning to like my physical self
• I feel more confident
  
• I feel pretty - something I have never felt before
• I understand committing and recommitting
• I am learning patience when it comes to my goals
  
• I am setting a better example for my children

It is all so good!!!

Love, Tee

Hopeful

I can remember more than two years ago looking at the Democratic field and thinking that I was going to support Barack Obama. I was impressed by his willingness to say things that needed to be said to the people of this country. I cried that day I voted for him in both the primary and general elections. This man inspires me.

I am putting a picture of our new President on my dream board. He inspires me in so many ways. He is a devoted husband and father. He is committed to our country and to our success as a people and to our image as a positive worldwide example. He is five years older than me!

He is interested in being a healthy fit person in so many ways. I am excited to see what direction our country will go starting at noon today.

Whether you voted for him or not - let's all raise of NRG Go Fizzy Drink in his honor.

Peace and love,
Tee

Evidence that I have already changed ... San

• I am much more optimistic about my life. I am filled with LOVE and intent.
• I am also optimistic about my Arbonne career and what this Team will accomplish.
• I understand that my actions should support my goals ... dah!
• I am more aware of what I am eating ... Poison or Fuel
• I make a point to add FUEL items to our weekly food cart. Some items specifically for me!
• Social outings do not have to include food.
• I know that I am OK!
• I am more eager to start each day.
• I am moving more ... walking twice or more a week, getting up and walking around during phone calls, sitting on the Pilates ball as a chair, purchased the Rebounder and started bouncing, doing sit ups during conference calls, etc. Much, much better!
• I am coaching two 'official' new people and one unofficial ... (she doesn't know it. Ha-Ha!)
• I am 22-25 pounds less than when I started.
• I am looking forward to losing the next 25 lbs. and believe I will do it!
• I believe, really believe some new thoughts ... Everything always works out, Anything is Better than Nothing, Comfort isn't that comfortable and will not get me where I want to go.
• I can make a difference for others
• I have found my voice about some issues and feel so much better for speaking it.
• I look for ways to empower others
• I have a feeling of hope and confidence that just wasn't there before we started.

I do believe that I could just go on and on. I really needed to see this progress. I hope this assignment is powerful for you too!!

Feeling Empowerful! about our Figure8 Products!

Hi all. Yesterday I had an open house with a teammate, Jenifer, and it really turned out nice. It was for 4 hours and we had about 8 guests - which worked out nice because each of them got some individual time with us. I had tastings of our Fizzy Tabs and the Vanilla Protein shake with Fiber Booster, as well as chews and Detox tea guests could try. Our tasting area was definitely the center of attention.

Even more so, I was able to really talk from the heart and from a deep conviction on how these products have worked for me. I remember in the past of talking about using the shakes and chews but not really being able to say that they worked as far as weight loss. I now know different and people can really tell when I talk about my experience. I know that both Jenifer and I made sales yesterday because of this.

I also talked about our working as an Empowerful! team because I know this group has been an amazing support, especially when jawz comes knocking. And others really do get that it's easier to make healthy changes with a support group. So I am spreading the word!

So, onward and upward. I'd really like to hit the 20 pound mark by the end of this month. And that means 3 more pounds over the next two weeks. I had actually gotten within 2 pounds of my goal but today it's up a bit - I know it's a natural fluxuation for me, and that's ok. I might even manage a walk outside today - it's going to feel balmy at 40 degrees!

Hope everyone is having great weekends. I'm looking forward to watching the various inaugural broadcasts as the next few days progress. This will be a healthy change for the whole country.

Love you all - Gerri

Amazing!

What an Incredible Bunch! Thank You Mark for your blog, we wouldn't be here without you! As far as hanging in and going forward...WE ARE!! Love You All!
I like myself best when I am connected to you all!
XO

From Mark ...

Hi ladies… I may be gone from your Monday activities… but I’m still here in spirit.
I continue to read your blogs and send you all positive energy and love.
For what it’s worth, you are actually doing very well!
Normally there is a steep decline immediately after I step out of a group because I am not there to hold everyone accountable (when the cats away…).
But in this case you are doing a fabulous job of supporting each other.
Kate I know if feels like you’ve failed with the ten lb gain… but its still 7 pounds less than you once gain for the holidays… just think of it as using up some of the reserve you had build up during the holidays.
The important thing for ALL of you is to focus on the IMPROVEMENTS, ignore the ‘back slips’. Although it will take longer to get there, even if you lose 20 pounds and put back on 10 then lose 20 and put back on 10, you can eventually lose 200 pounds! How many pounds have each of you lost and how many have you put back on since we began? Are you still ahead of the game? If so… than you’re winning!
Keep in mind… the ultimate goal here isn’t weight loss… it is to turn you into a Healthy Fit human being… are you becoming that? Do you think and feel differently than before? If so… then you are winning… the weight will eventually keep coming off because this is becoming your nature.
The problem with surgery Kate is that it’s a crutch… it doesn’t address the real issue which is your psychological predisposition toward being unhealthy and unfit. So even surgery wont make you ‘Healthy & Fit’ it will just make it less obvious to the outside world. Due to your diabetes and my lack of a medical degree I can’t advise you against getting it, but CAN say that the REAL ‘cure’ will be in staying on track with your efforts to alter your perceptions and habits (whether you get the procedure or not).
And when it comes to ‘being hungry all the time’… figure out WHY. Is it psychological or is it because you are burning so many calories that you NEED the extra food to keep from wasting away. Chances are… its all in your head… it’s a habit… its in your programming… its just JAWZ messing with your head. So what do we do when our habits take over? First recognize them for what they are… accept that you really aren’t ‘hungry’… it just SEEMS that way. Will you starve if you don’t eat more? What need is this food really filling? Can you fill it in some other way? Can you fill the pit in your stomach with water or healthy Arbonne products that expand your stomach without expanding your waistline… until the hunger pangs go away or until you change your focus? Once you accept that you probably don’t really need more food, it allows you to look for other alternative. And this ‘always hungry’ thing will eventually go away.

As for you Suzanne… we know why you’re hiding… and we understand because you are more like us than you realize. But in every group there is someone at the front of the charge and someone trailing… never are they all progressing at the exact same rate. Girls… just as the geese do when a comrade falls behind… we need to increase our efforts to drop back and pull her up. In helping Suzanne to believe in herself and get on track, WE too will become stronger.

Love to ALL of you!!! And NEVER… NEVER… NEVER… NEVER… NEVER give up on YOURSELF… it’s the one ‘sure thing’ you will ALWAYS have! If you never give up, sooner or later you WILL master your nature! Mark

Quote from the Buddha

You as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection. ~ The Buddha

CALLING SUZANNE!

Hey Suzanne,
I have news ...
I am coming up to a wellness event hosted by RVP, Rebecca on the 24th from ten to noon.
It gets better ... it is in Mount Laurel!
It gets even better ... Gerri is coming with me!!
PLEASE TELL ME you can rearrange your schedule and join us!!
Call me as soon as you can, we miss you. Love, San

From RealAge.com

Here’s a simple way to slash major calories from some of your favorite comfort foods -- and you won’t miss a thing. When you’re making lasagna, sloppy joes, chili, and other ground beef dishes, use chopped mushrooms instead of meat. If you’re like the people in a recent study, you’ll naturally eat about 420 fewer calories with these mushroom-enriched meals. (Need help losing holiday pounds? Try the amazing soup diet in our New Year, New You Center.) The Other Red MeatPeople in the study also said the mushroom makeovers tasted just as good and kept them feeling full just as long as the beef versions did. And not only did the mushroom-based dishes mean a lower-calorie meal, but the mushroom eaters also ate fewer calories and less fat throughout the day than the beef eaters did. (Check out the Savory Mushroom Stroganoff recipe in this article.) Switching beef for mushrooms is just one way to cut calories and fat.

What is it about mushrooms that makes meatless eating so satisfying? Their rich taste, earthy aroma, and -- yes -- meaty texture. Give every kind a try with this cookbook, Mushroom Magic: 100 Fabulous Fungi Feasts and Marvelous Mushroom Meals . The name says it all.
For more recommendations,check out our RealAge Marketplace!

To sign up for more info like this …
http://www.realage.com

LOVE YOURSELF

Team~Abundance,

I am in awe ... you are all amazing. I just simply love how we have connected to the core.

Kate, my weight has gone up and down ... no one ever said, it would go straight down.
Be kind to yourself ... LOVE YOURSELF! You are so worth it. Mark has taught us that we are OKAY ... AND WE ALL ARE!

I am full to the brim with love and positive expectation for us. I have so much it is
just overflowing into everything I do. Where ever we are in this moment, just recommit and we will be better than fine.

Enjoy the weekend ahead and the historic Inauguration of our 44th President, Barack Obama! This is the time of hope and change and WE are part of it!!

Because I am forever changed, I am sending an abundance of Love and Gratitude to Mark and each of you. San

I LOVE our Empowerful! Team!!

Wow - I thought I checked the blog yesterday but I must not have because I've been busy catching up, writing comments and feeling so charged up by what I've read.

Kate - my Heart and Love and Belief in YOU is so strong - I hope that you feel all the positive supportive energy that surrounds you from all of us.

Tee - your blogs come from such a wonderful deep, grounded place of knowing that I always find myself coming back into focus about what's importantafter reading anything from you.

Ginny - even in your blogs I hear that cheerfulness in your voice that I love, and can see your lungs expanding with fresh air that helps us all.

Suzanne - our often silent partner, but no less an important part of who we are. When you do speak up and share, I want to listen and learn.

San - I will never tire of telling you how much you inspire me. I really do like myself best when I'm with you!

Can't do a love fest blog without letting Mark know that I feel like I'm in the presence of a truly enlightened soul. You expand us all (except for the waistlines!) :-D

Overflowing with Empowerful! Love! Gerri

Oh Ya...this is so hard..
Well, I have gained 10 pound since the New Year.
I am absolutely hungry all of the time. I started with a therapist on Wednesday an she suggested after 15 minutes with me (she's known me for 12 years) that I have bariatric surgery. I felt so sad...like a failure.

So, on a good note, I continue with my water jogging every morning except Sunday....I can now put my socks on. And I don't have to use the handicap stairs to get in and out of the pool.

I love you all,
Kate

Powerful and Empowered!

Since we are both powerful and empowered we can do whatever we set our heart and mind to. Tee, I totally see you as an NVP with a big and ever expanding Team. In fact I see each of us in that way.
It has taken me a time and learning to arrive where I am today ... with a clear awareness to stop wanting it so badly and enjoy the journey. To stay in touch with everything I love about our company, our products and each person on my Team and especially our Team and my life. From this place of peace and gratitude blended with solid activity my desires will come to fruition. It has been a long time since I have felt so sure my goals will manifest. I am excited about all Arbonne has in store for us.
At the same time I know that I will continue to want more ... so the challenge is to acknowledge what we have accomplished and enjoy it along the way.
Today, let's celebrate the women we have grown to be just over the past few months!! WOW!

Relentless

Good Morning Powerful Wonderful Women -

I am sititng her at my desk wishing to God it was me at the desk as an NVP and not an employee. There are a lot of benefits to working where I do since it is flexible enough to allow me to work on my Arbonne and I have developed a decent client base here. But this is not my passion. My passion is my family and my time. I feel like time is moving so fast and I resent having to spend 8 - 10 hours of each day here. Things are building to a boil in me. I can feel success in my business but I am frustrated by the feeling that I have to shoe-horn it in to the nooks and crannies of my day. I am planning to be a RVP by July 2010. When I sat down and mapped out my goals at the start of my business, that was how I envisioned things growing. I am hoping that by publicly proclaiming the promotion date it will make me more accountable to do the things required for success.

We learned from Mark that recommitment is required each day. A healthy fit person makes the commitment every day. That has become second nature to me now. I get up and say to myself each morning "I recommit myself to the efforts, behaviors, and successes of a healthy fit person." I have walked by my favorite bagel store EVERY day since we started in September and I have not bought a bagel. I have been eating from a smaller salad plate instead of a dinner plate EVERY night since we started in September. My consumption of snack cakes and cookies, and candy has dropped off so much and I continue to work to make my interest and cravings for them non-existent.

I am not sure where I am going with this post. I just knew I needed to write.

The dedication of each of you to this group inspires me everyday. I love you all.

Tee

ps: the cleanse mixed with the citrus surge fizzy is positively delicious. Who knew?

Mornin'!

Great blogs San and Gerri! Looking forward to spending some time with those questions too! I also love the Seasource Gelee, it really works on those sore muscles and it smells delightful! I found this quote on my Starbucks coffee cup yesterday, I think it's quite profound and I just had to share it!

'The irony of commitment is that it's deeply liberating--in work, in play, in love. The act frees you from the tyranny of your internal critic, from the fear that likes to dress itself up and parade around as rational hesitation. To commit is to remove your head as the barrier to your life.'
Anne Morriss
I like anything that reminds me to get 'out of my mind'!
Great Day All!
More Later......
Gin

A Healthy Day

Sometimes it's nice to just get through the day with small successes. It was a good walking day with San - did my six loops at the mall - about 6 miles - last four much easier with having San to talk to. Then my massage which felt great on this new, slimmer body. I'm on my last day of my 7 day detox too. Kept to healthier snacks and finished off the carrot soup for dinner - still yummy today!

Tomorrow it's back to pilates and this time I'm scheduling in a LONG SeaSource SOAK to end my day. And now I know where some key spots are for using the Gelee too! Hopefully this will mean my muscles won't complain as much. lol

Starting to contemplate our list of questions - definitely the right kind of food for thought.

Hope you've all had happily healthy days!

Love - Gerri

Abundant Health and Happiness Today and Always ...

GOOD MORNING!

Been up since 5 ... just so much good stuff on my mind! Wait `til you all see FC5!!!! VPs can order it today and I just did! This is going to be a winner!!

I am just back from walking 4 miles with Gerri ... I love our walks and talks!

Also wanted to report to the out of town Team that our Healthy Living with Arbonne format went really well last night. I think this will really build into something big for us.

My Rebounder came and I love it! I can't wait to really get started. Today with walking and later my Pilates session I will plan to really get bouncing in the morning. Today, I just step on it every time I pass it and jump a few jumps. Anything is better than nothing and it's FUN!
I feel like a kid.

Also want to report that I am half way through and do love The Art of Extreme Self Care ... transform your life one month at a time by Cheryl Richardson. It fits right in with the growth we are all working on. I can't wait to see our questions. I am going to take mine to my hair appt at 11. More soon.

Abundant Health and Happiness today and always, San

Hi All!

Wish me luck, today is my luncheon and presentation at The new Seabury Women's Club.
Have just gone over all my material and products to bring.
I love the questions and will address them later on. I'm with T, this will help keep us connected and allow us to keep helping each other!
Love You All!
Gin

From Extreme Self Care by Cheryl Richardson

End the Legacy of Deprivation Questions ...

Where do I feel deprived?
What do I need more of right now?
What do I need less of?
What do I want right now?
What am I yearning for?
Who or what is causing me to feel resentful and why?
What am I starving for?

Here we go, I will be looking forward to sharing our responses.

Questions coming ...

Love Tee's quote and love you all. I will post the questions as soon as I spend a few minutes with Rog. xoxo

We Can Do This

Thanks for tonight. I really love hearing from everyone and cheering on the progress. I think the assignments each week will go a long way to linking us together, providing fodder for discussion (we know how quiet we can be), and reminding us of our commitment to ourselves and to each other.

I think post holiday doldrums are normal. It occurs to me that we should celebrate the fact that we did some hard work during the hardest part of the year. Let's not beat ourselves up over a visit from JAWZ. Mark warned us that she might be back to try and tempt us to the dark side. We can do this. We have been doing it.

One of my favorite quotes (and I don't know who said it) was on a button someone sent to my Facebook page. It said - Be the kind of woman who when your feet hit the floor in the morning makes the Devil say, "Oh Crap! She's up." Just substitute JAWZ for the Devil and make that the mantra.

I love you guys.
Tee

Doldrums

I echo Gerri's thought about winter doldrums. I have been walking hand in hand with JAWZ the past few days. I feel like all I want to do is eat and there she is egging me on. I haven't gained any weight back but I am upset with myself for the lack of discipline. I feel like lack of discipline is following me around like a bad penny. I am looking forward to talking tonight.

RECOMMIT!!
RECOMMIT!!
RECOMMIT!!!

One thing for sure - You guys are the best. Love you, Tee

CONSISTENCY

Wow, Ginny! Since I grew up there I know what a committment it is to walk in the cold weather. Good for YOU!
And Gerri ... you too so consistent on the eliptical!
I am going to walk in my neighborhood before the sun gets any lower. Bitter cold here too but of course no snow yet.
I can't wait to talk with everyone tonight. xoxo

Winter Doldrums

It sounds like many of us are hitting a wall and finding jawz slipping back in. There isn't as much going on so I find myself easily distracted now and before I know it, I'm snacking. It's so easy to want to just curl up with that book and hot drink - at least my choice here is hot herbal tea!

I feel I have to be more diligent with my thoughts and also to sometimes push myself to take that first step towards the elliptical. Once I start my exercising, I'm fine. But, I have to work on revving up my mind first!

I guess that's where heating up the Blog helps. I SOOOOOooooo appreciate when I see a new entry and have a chance to reconnect and thus recommit. Let's help each other gals! I love hearing from YOU!

Hello!

Looking forward to our talk tonight! Some days I want to be in Maryland so very badly! I feel I miss so much, so it's very important to connect with you all on the phone! My charge Ben, a lovey dovey chocolate lab, and I just got back from a long walk on the Boardwalk Beach.
It was still snowing, there was a lot of marsh grass on the boardwalk....we're having very high tides with the full moon and it being so close so it must have covered the walk. Huge ship heading into the canal...got some pics of Ben chasing the sea gulls and the ship.
Loving my Aero Pilates machine...doing good getting the exercises down. I was so psyched to try the cardio with the rebounder....OMG...MUCH harder than it looked, but it was a good workout and one day I will laugh at thinking it was so hard!
Day 12 of my 'Kicking Butts' and resolve is still strong...not that I don't have my moments!!
Later Everyone!
Love Ya!
Gin

We hosted a dinner party last night.

Jawz must have been invited because I ...


Ate too much
Drank too much
Had dessert
Stayed up too late

I'd really like a do-over but all I can do is

RECOMMIT!

The Day After

Ok - Note to myself - On the day I have pilates, that night MUST be a Sea Soak night! I know Linda said the SeaSource Gelee would be good on sore muscles, but I didn't know which muscles would be sore! At least now I know.

I will have to keep reminding myself today that this is a good sign that I'm getting my body out of its comfort zone. :-}

Let's put some new pictures of us on the blog!!

Something Oprah Said

I'm sure Mark has said this too, but I wrote this down when watching Oprah's Tuesday Segment.

"You need to love yourself enough to know that you being healthy is worth it."

Just wanted to pass on this inspiration for all of us! Because we ARE WORTH IT!

Love - Gerri

My First Pilates Day

Well, I did it. I'm now scheduled for Pilates once a week. And I can definitely tell that my core has been very much neglected. Please don't ask me to roll up any more today! Some things were easy, and other things - hmmm - didn't know I had muscles there! All in all a good session. And Andi, my instructor, said that I had good mind/body coordination - so my other walking and cardio work is giving me a good basis. I know this is exactly what I need to be adding in right now to help me reach my goal weight by the end of February.

It definitely helps that Andi is convenient - 15 minute drive from home - and exceptionally good rates - since her current studio is in the basement of her parents house, she doesn't have to cover any overhead, so her prices reflect that too. And once the space is the way she wants it, she'll have her various pilates machines out too.

I enjoyed my time with her, and we even finished the session talking about Arbonne. She remembered getting bombarded with Arbonne reps when she had her studio in Savage Mill and pretty much tuned them out. But with me it was very low key and casual. I invited her to both DA and my Open House this month and she said yes to DA in Feb, and will probably come to my open house too!

So this has been a Win Win experience already!

Balance

What a team. Great posts Gerri and San.

I am struggling a bit this week. I had some snack cakes today and yesterday. I was aware the whole time but I decided I wanted them. Back on the wagon for me.

Off to do some dinner - healthy - followed by IPAs.

Hope you all are doing the do.

Love, Tee

Productive Day

Hi All,

It's been a very productive day ... sun is out so I got a nice walk in and delivered product to a neighbor.

Also it was a two shake day ... I can't tell you that I am not hungry though and I am going out to meet two women for dinner so I will have a cup of hot detox and a few chews before I leave.

I am creating order for everything I touch ... it is part of the new year thing for me.
I've been cleaning out drawers while I listen to conference calls, etc.

I'd love to hear from all of you ... are we going to beat the odds and stay focused on our goals?!?

Tuesday's Oprah - We're So There!

Tee - first of all, thank you for telling us about Oprah's Live Your Best Life Theme this week. I taped Tuesday's and watched that while I was on the elliptical this afternoon. Great way to combine exercise for my body and healthy 'food' for my brain!

I thought of Ginny and Suzanne especially when Laura's story was shared - a smoker for 30 years. Using the Real Age Assessment, her real age was 60 - I think she was 44 years old. 1 year after working with Dr Oz's program, she had lost weight, quit smoking, began walking and her new real age was 41+. What a difference embracing a healthy lifestyle makes - just like we're all seeing too! This was a very inspirational episode.

I remember taking the real age assessment about a year ago and I think my assessment was 56 - definitely higher than my 'age'. Now I wish I had saved that one. I just retook the assessment and now I'm a real age of 42! And I know I'm still working on some areas! You can go to www.realage.com to take the assessment. I'm going to save this assessment and do this again in 6 months. I'm not done yet!

We are so doing the right things and thinking the right thoughts!

ALL THE WAY!

I am over the moon for you, Ginny. This is so exciting!
Have you officially started with your sister as well?
I know it's hard. I remember Rog quitting a few times but when he stopped for the final time (it's been ten years this month) he just did it.

Also I remember my parents quitting occasionally throughout my life and then when illness struck they just both stopped immediately. So, I know you can do it and I am supporting you ALL THE WAY!!

Also wanted to report that I am finally shifting into second gear, I am off the plateau and have started to drop pounds again. Whew!!

Sending Love, Joy and Support to Each of my Empowerful Partners! San

Good Mornin'!!

Hi All!
Yes, day 7 of my smoke free life.....oh what a struggle. Grrrrrr........
Thanks for all your encouraging words. Thanks T for the anti-smoking energy you're sending!
I trust it gets easier and I know it's worth it. I am finally getting over a nasty cold I got for the new year, but actually it has helped with not smoking, maybe I was supposed to be sick! I'm sorry I've been neglectful with the blog. I keep this room at 60, my bedroom too. I have three zone heating so the living room and kitchen are the only rooms I allow to be at 65 when I am home. I've gotten used to it, I am extremely warm in any higher temps. It has helped with the heating bill, of course, but it has also broken me of the habit of sitting at my computer for hours thinking I am working!
Icy morning here, supposed to turn to rain by noon. Good for you Gerri with your wine and girlfriends, you have worked so hard to get to where you are and good luck with your pilates tomorrow. I went and got myself a pilates machine, 4 payments of $86 a month. I spent that on cigarettes in a little over 2 weeks....that's how I justified it. It will be here tomorrow, now I just have to put it together and get that rebounder set up, can't wait, it'll be awesome!! Especially on days like this when weather doesn't permit me to walk out the door. Comes with DVD's and I can't wait to use it. Of course it'll be in my living room, I'll just pretend it's a new piece of furniture!
You hang in there is right Kate! It will get better, stay in the now My friend. Look what you are still doing, your pool work.... it's okay to be hungry....I tell myself that a million times a day....it's okay to want a cigarette, the wanting won't kill me!
Love You All, Lots and Lots. Look forward to our team forging new ground and the self development that goes along with it.
Eating healthy and loving myself today!
Thanks for your encouragement Mark....I just love 'anything is better than nothing'!
Make It A Great Day!
XO
Gin

Interesting Evening

Tonight was one of those nights where I was often an observer of my own behavior and where I really did notice how different I am. I got together with 3 close girlfriends. It's always easy for us to sit around all night and talk and drink wine and snack. We still did all of that but I did the drinking and snacking in great moderation. Only 2 glasses of wine over 3+ hours and about twice as much water - I would have never balanced out the wine with water before. And my food consumption was also on the healthier (less poisonous! items) like the nuts, and cheese. Stayed away from the Fritos (mostly!).

My friends were all amazed and envious of the weight I've lost. And they are also unwilling at this time, to make the kind of commitment I have to being healthy and fit. I loved my time with them, but I was also the first one to call it quits for the evening and head home for a good night's sleep. It was enough for me.

I realize that doing things with some friends will change, is changing, because the focus is different for me. Feels a little bitter sweet. And yet I still know I'm better off. Can't say I'll ever get to the point that I won't enjoy a glass of wine, but that is just becoming more like background music, not a major part of my social activities. It's all good.

Hi....All you beautiful Womens....
I haven't been blogging, because I hate blogging when I'm down. I've been depressed ( as in the antidepressant isn't working ). I have an appt with a new psychiatrist on the 22nd, so I just have to hang on. I know things will work out. I've kept up my water jogging 6 days/week. I'm hungry ALL the time....I really have to fight against the idea that food will make me feel better.
I've loved reading the blogs...it's a big help.
Love, Kate

Feeling good ...

At tonight's Nation Meeting I wore the suit that I bought to be on stage at NTC as a new RVP in 2002!! I haven't worn it in at least five years.
So many people told me how good I looked. This feels really, really good.
How is everyone else doing??? Let's support each other! Sending Love and talk soon.

A Good Day

Today was just ... nice. Nothing dramatic, but jawz napped most of the time. I started my day with my 35 mins on the elliptical. Enjoyed the Abundance Monday Morning Forum - brain and heart food for my business. Grazed comfortably through the day and even got in some good IPAs for my business. And I called to schedule my first Pilates instruction - it will be Thursday!

Just enjoying the moment. And what's that Markism? Let tomorrow come what may, for I have fully lived today. :-D

Falling off the Wagon

Oprah this whole week is about what we have been working on for the past 12 weeks. If you can tivo or tape it, please do. It just serves as more proof that we are on the right track to changing who we are.

Oprah said something I felt was profound. She said that we should use falling off the wagon as a chance to fall in love with ourselves. She mentions that often times people turn to food because they don't know how to Love themselves, define happiness or put themselves first. All things we talked about.

Maybe, as we really get into 2009, we should take the time to schedule our health into our calendars and make them scared dates. Also we should think about the reasons why we love ourselves and write them down, hold them close, and remember them when we are reaching for the Poison vs the Fuel.

I love each of you so much for the strong, powerful women that you are and I continue to be blown away by how each of you recommit to your success each day.

How awesome will NTC be when we are all together and turning heads due to the confidence we'll be exuding.

Love, Tee

From Mark ...

Ginny… I also want to acknowledge YOU for your gains! I would love to encourage you to blog us about what you are up to so we don’t have to rely upon second-hand little birdie stories.
And how about the rest of you?
Where are those ‘daily blogs’… come on… tell us SOMETHING. Remember… ANYTHING is better than NOTHING!
Love to you all!
Mark

From Mark ...

As I read this blog I am truly inspired… I have goose bumps.
And you Gerri… you ROCKED my world with your last blogs!
Please… I want you all to know… being on that blog and sharing means more than you may ever realize.
Don’t worry about what you say… just say something… anything… you never know when what you have to share may be exactly what someone else needs to hear. And lets face it… nothing feels better than knowing that something we shared not only kept US on track, but it may have helped keep someone else on track as well.
We MUST get these messages out!
Just think of how many people we could be inspiring right NOW with this blog… with your stories… with your commitments… your passion… your purpose… AND your mounting achievements…
Start thinking of who you can invite to join in so they can start reading this blog as well… whose lives can we change? Who might be interested in Arbonne’s products if they could read what they’re doing for YOU?
Create a GREAT Sunday!!!
With Love & Support!
Mark

A little bird told me that Ginny has gone four days without a smoke!!! WooHoo! I am so proud of you. Your lungs are already working at repairing themselves. Keep up the good work. One minute at a time. Just think of all the new clothes you will be able to buy with all of the money you will save by not buying cigarettes.

I have been a bit silent the past few days. I feel like I have been cocooning with my family. I have been on and off the wagon the past few days. But tonight, I am recommitting myself to the habits of a healthy fit person. I am saying publicly that I will go from 170 to 165 by January 31. Then I would like to go from 165 to 160 by February 28. Then, I will work to get to my goal weight of 150 by NTC.

I have also been inconsistent with using the Figure 8 product line. I am going to commit to the Figure 8 Program. I tasted the new products and they are delicious.

These sessions have really gone a long way toward rewriting my brain. If I were younger and going to start a band I think I would have to name it Cognitive Dissonance. :)

As I use the principles we learned to change my health and fitness, I also want to apply the principles to my business. My business has not been "healthy and fit." But it needs to be in order for me to achieve my dreams. So I want to say that I recommit to my business and all that it can provide for me and my family. I believe in Arbonne, the products, the opportunity, and most importantly, me. I want to go to NTC as an Area Manager.

I love you all and look forward to keeping our group going. Blog away gals.

Tee

Something Bigger than Myself

Reflections of where I started and how far I've come:

When Sandra invited me to join the Empowerful! Health and Fitness program, I didn’t have very high expectations about what I could change about my weight. I knew I should lose weight and yet getting to that healthy weight seemed a distant dream. Weight issues, and challenges with my physical image, have been with me off and on most of my life. And in the past few years, I’ve felt I’ve been losing the battle and was pretty close to just accepting where I was, even though I knew it was an unhealthy weight. I’d recently been more consistent in walking at least 4 miles a day 5-6 days a week. And I’d also been using the Fig 8 products, though somewhat inconsistently, and nothing really changed…until this program.

For me this program is filling in the missing links. I know consistency is important – we hear it in our business and it’s the same here - and it's consistency in small steps. I have been amazed how one small step, consistently taken, can make such a big difference. I finally started using the Figure 8 products consistently and I began to learn how to think consistently as a healthy-fit person. The team is also crucial and essential. I’d always done it alone before, which also meant I rarely made any public commitments. Now with our calls, and especially with our blog, I feel part of something bigger, I learn from the challenges and successes of others. And I'm also humbled and grateful when one of you says that I helped inspire you. I'm sure that none of us realize the ripples we are creating and who they are touching. And finally, it’s been about replacing my thoughts with ones that serve the kind of person I really want to be. My new best friend is cognitive dissonance! I’ve lost 15 pounds over a time period that I typically gain 5 or more pounds. And what’s even more amazing, is that I know I’m not done yet – I still have 9 more pounds to lose – and I am doing it. I realize my journey towards being a fully realized healthy-fit person is only beginning. I continue to ‘wake up’ to habits and patterns that are not healthy, whether it’s in my eating, my relationships, my business, or any aspect of my life. And now I know I have the support, the thirst for knowledge and the growing awareness to make better choices and the strength and conviction to say goodbye to those thoughts and habits that do not serve me.

Thank You Mark for your amazing vision, belief, and ability to inspire and teach. Thank You San for the invitation, your wonderful example, and your priceless friendship. And Thank You Kate, Tee, Ginny and Suzanne for all that you have shared and continue to share. I now have a special connection with each of you that will alway have a special place in my heart.

Yes - Still Blogging!

Hi everyone!

I know check the blog every day, but don't always feel I have something to say. But I do want to be more consistent, especially as we transition to our next phase in this program. I think our commitment to blogging will be even more important. I know how much it inspires me to read someone else's latest blog - like San's about her Rebounder! I can't wait to hear about her experiences - there may be one of those in my future too!

Continuing to redefine my relationship with jaws. He still sneaks into my day - like today's bread pudding with caramel sauce. But I also went for a nice walk outside and was very good the rest of the day, so more steps forward than backward.

Tomorrow I'm calling for my first Pilates appointment, which will be later in the week - you'll all be hearing about that soon!

Love each of YOU! - Gerri

2009 is OUR YEAR TO SHINE!

Hello Healthy Living Leaders!

I am so excited to report that ...
I just placed an order for my 40" Rebounder!!
I can't wait to for it to arrive so I can get started. I just read another Benefits of Rebounding list like the one Suzanne posted for us and the benefits are absolutely astounding. I have decided Rebounding will be one of the things that helps me reach my goal for NTC!!
As soon as it arrives and I have used it I will report on the quality, etc.

Wishing you all a fabulous Sunday and looking forward to you all checking in on the blog.
Love, San

PS Check out the charts for total calories burned vs jogging and for calories burned per your actual weight at ...
www.jumpsport.com/pr-jt-info.htm

New Years Day and Every Day

Happy New Year to all of you - may it be one filled with healthy-fit experiences, habits, thoughts and successes. May you find many opportunities to smile, laugh, love and experience joy.

I know I'm starting this year more in touch with my healthy-fit lifestyle. Mark and I chose to stay home last night, enjoy an old black and white movie and each other's company. We turned down a party and felt good about it. This morning was bright and sunny, clear-headed and happy. Had a nice breakfast and worked on taking down Christmas decorations. Sorting out some for Good Will. Creating space for the wonderful possibilities for the new year.

I am amazed and thrilled to have gotten through this holiday season, losing 15 pounds since the end of September. And, I felt energized when reworking my yearly goals, like San, to see my weight and health related goal be one with new meaning.

Today, and every day, I recommit to my health, my business, my personal development and my relationships. It's so empowering to know that each day, each minute, I can start anew. And having your friendship and support is a priceless gift in all of this. You all teach me and touch me in ways you cannot imagine.

I am an Empowerful! Healthy-Fit Person Beginning NOW!

Much, Much Love - Gerri

Here's to a Healthy 2009

I am so grateful this morning. I made wonderful choices yesterday. The big one was deciding not to go to the New Year's Eve Party that we go to every year with good friends. It was Chinese food catered and I knew Jawz would be there. It was not in the best interest of my continued Health and Fitness.
I was thinking over the last three months and I'm so grateful to be where I am right now. I agree with San about this year really being different. I am very excited about where we go next.
On a more personal note, my depression comes and goes. It's so difficult at times for me, But I'm moving in the right direction. This week I secured a therapist AND a psychiatrist and I continue with my before work water jog. I know that because I am not giving up on myself, that everything will be OK. And I learned that here....
God Bless all of us in this New Year. We can accomplish anything we want.

Love, Kate