Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together. ~Unknown
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Love Isn’t Perfect..
Love Isn’t Perfect..
Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together. ~Unknown
Love isn’t perfect. It isn’t a fairytale or a storybook and it doesn’t always come easy. Love is overcoming obstacles, facing challenges, fighting to be together, holding on and never letting go. It is a short word, easy to spell, difficult to define, and impossible to live without. Love is work, but most of all, love is realizing that every hour, every minute, every second of it was worth it because you did it together. ~Unknown
Tuesday, September 4, 2012
Destination 200 - Day Two
I will say this about BeachBody, the company that sells Insanity- they definitely believe in truth in advertising. After 2 days of doing Insanity, my entire body hurts. Literally, from my glutes all the way to my calfs, my legs hurt.
I did Day 2 today & I could barely make it through the warm up- THE WARM UP!! By the time I was done, my shirt was drenched with sweat, I could hardly stand from exhaustion, and I was praying for a merciful end to my suffering. I'm going to plow through this, but I definitely need to invest in more Aleve.
I'm getting back into the Isagenix routine, but I am wondering how all this strenuous exercise is going to mesh with their cleanse days. I'll have to find out quick.
I also tracked my meals & workout on My Fitness Pal. I thought I could share that on Facebook, but I guess not. No big deal. My morning snack was a cup of cottage cheese-plain, & lunch was spicy chicken wings with a garbanzo bean salad. According to Ilio's, the cafe at my job, my total lunch was a little over 700 calories. That is more than what Isagenix recommends but not much. I will of course be more careful in the future.
I did Day 2 today & I could barely make it through the warm up- THE WARM UP!! By the time I was done, my shirt was drenched with sweat, I could hardly stand from exhaustion, and I was praying for a merciful end to my suffering. I'm going to plow through this, but I definitely need to invest in more Aleve.
I'm getting back into the Isagenix routine, but I am wondering how all this strenuous exercise is going to mesh with their cleanse days. I'll have to find out quick.
I also tracked my meals & workout on My Fitness Pal. I thought I could share that on Facebook, but I guess not. No big deal. My morning snack was a cup of cottage cheese-plain, & lunch was spicy chicken wings with a garbanzo bean salad. According to Ilio's, the cafe at my job, my total lunch was a little over 700 calories. That is more than what Isagenix recommends but not much. I will of course be more careful in the future.
Monday, September 3, 2012
Destination 200 - Day One
So, I finished Day One of Insanity & had my morning shake. As far as Insanity goes, WHAT HAVE I GOT MYSELF INTO?!?!
Day One of Insanity is just a fitness test to see how fit you are. I struggled to get to 20 minutes of the 30 minute workout. So, needless to say, I am out of healthy shape. I qualify that last statement because anybody that knows me knows I always say "I am in shape. Round is a shape."
Compounding the matter is that I'm doing this at home, in a 2nd floor apartment, with a family with a preschooler living below me. I won't have to keep doing this at home because today is Labor Day, hence no work & no working out in the gym at work. This will be the exception rather than the rule, but it meant I could only go 75% today, lest pieces of the ceiling started falling down in their apartment.
All I know is if I was that tired after going 75%, "OY VAY!!" But that is why I am posting this. So that I can be held accountable. I still wrote down my results. I don't expect them to change as dramatically as if I had gone 100% as I was supposed to, but it will give me a baseline.
Likewise, below are my New Year's pics, as well as the ones I took over the weekend, to give some perspective as to where I was, where I am, & ultimately, where I will wind up. I will post progressive pics at the beginning of every month, as I promised.
I also measured myself where Isagenix want me to measure myself. The only thing I'm not sure of is when it comes to the chest measurement. I don't know if they want me to measure just arm pit to arm pit or if they wanted the circumference from there. I took both & will post the total of both until I get clarification.
So, my total inches re either 369 1/8 inches or 393 1/8 inches, depending on what they require. I'm still the same inches as before the summer, even though I added 10 lbs from the last time I measured myself. My BMI sits at 32.08, which is considered obese, but still a heck of a lot better than where I was at the beginning of the year when my BMI would've been around 40.
Here I the breakdown:
Neck 15 7/8
Upper Arm (left) 16
Upper Arm (right) 16
Chest (men: armpit, women: bust) 19 / 43
Diaphragm (rib cage) 41
Waist 43
Abdomen (6” below waist) 41 1/2
Buttocks (9” below waist) 46 1/2
Upper Thigh (left) 28
Upper Thigh (right) 28 1/2
Calf (left) 17 1/4
Calf (right) 17
Upper Knee (left) 20
Upper Knee (right) 19 1/2
Below are my images from New Years Day 1/1/2012
Now, Here'a what I looked like August 31, 2012. Check out how much smaller my gut is!!
Obviously, future posts won't be this long. I should've post my pics and measurements as a separate post, but oh well. I will keep postng & I will appreciate any feedback.
Until tomorrow, CHEERS!!
Day One of Insanity is just a fitness test to see how fit you are. I struggled to get to 20 minutes of the 30 minute workout. So, needless to say, I am out of healthy shape. I qualify that last statement because anybody that knows me knows I always say "I am in shape. Round is a shape."
Compounding the matter is that I'm doing this at home, in a 2nd floor apartment, with a family with a preschooler living below me. I won't have to keep doing this at home because today is Labor Day, hence no work & no working out in the gym at work. This will be the exception rather than the rule, but it meant I could only go 75% today, lest pieces of the ceiling started falling down in their apartment.
All I know is if I was that tired after going 75%, "OY VAY!!" But that is why I am posting this. So that I can be held accountable. I still wrote down my results. I don't expect them to change as dramatically as if I had gone 100% as I was supposed to, but it will give me a baseline.
Likewise, below are my New Year's pics, as well as the ones I took over the weekend, to give some perspective as to where I was, where I am, & ultimately, where I will wind up. I will post progressive pics at the beginning of every month, as I promised.
I also measured myself where Isagenix want me to measure myself. The only thing I'm not sure of is when it comes to the chest measurement. I don't know if they want me to measure just arm pit to arm pit or if they wanted the circumference from there. I took both & will post the total of both until I get clarification.
So, my total inches re either 369 1/8 inches or 393 1/8 inches, depending on what they require. I'm still the same inches as before the summer, even though I added 10 lbs from the last time I measured myself. My BMI sits at 32.08, which is considered obese, but still a heck of a lot better than where I was at the beginning of the year when my BMI would've been around 40.
Here I the breakdown:
Neck 15 7/8
Upper Arm (left) 16
Upper Arm (right) 16
Chest (men: armpit, women: bust) 19 / 43
Diaphragm (rib cage) 41
Waist 43
Abdomen (6” below waist) 41 1/2
Buttocks (9” below waist) 46 1/2
Upper Thigh (left) 28
Upper Thigh (right) 28 1/2
Calf (left) 17 1/4
Calf (right) 17
Upper Knee (left) 20
Upper Knee (right) 19 1/2
Below are my images from New Years Day 1/1/2012
Now, Here'a what I looked like August 31, 2012. Check out how much smaller my gut is!!
Obviously, future posts won't be this long. I should've post my pics and measurements as a separate post, but oh well. I will keep postng & I will appreciate any feedback.
Until tomorrow, CHEERS!!
Friday, August 31, 2012
Destination 200
So, in an effort to change my life and reach my goals, I am going to enlist whoever reads this to help me out. Here is the back story:
At the beginning of this year, I weighed 270 lbs & was a 42/44 inch waist. I had set a goal of being either 200 lbs or a 38 inch waist by the 4th of July. By the 4th of July, I had dropped 50 lbs and was a loose 40 inches. So, I hadn't reached my goal, but I was still pretty proud of myself, especially considering that the majority of loss was attributed to diet change and me starting Isagenix.
Anyways, the summer came. Barbecues, vacation, beer, & parties accumulated to a 10 lb relapse. So, here I sit today: 240 lbs, 39-40 inch waist, in that awkward position where some clothes fit too loose, some that I haven't worn in a while now fitting, & trying to figure out what to keep, what to toss, & what to buy. All I do know is that I want to get to ~200lbs and/or a 36 inch waist. And I want to have this accomplished by New Years. So, how am I going to do it? That's what I need you for.
Here's the game plan: First and foremost, I am starting up Isagenix again. Losing all that weight I did while on it was no accident. I also felt healthier both physically and mentally, slept better, and it was dead simple to follow. I also notice I was a lot more even keel emotionally. Not sure if it was anecdotal, but it's worth mentioning.
Secondly, I am going to begin doing the Insanity workout. The gym at my job (how cool is that?!) has a tv in the studio room, I guess you could call. Bottom line, it's the perfect place for me to go do Insanity. There aren't that many people there in the morning so I wouldn't really be putting anyone out.
Thirdly, I'm going to start tracking with My Fitness Pal. I paid a lot more attention to everything when I used it. It kept me honest.
Fourth, I am go to do the "IsaBody Challenge". Basically, Isagenix runs a perpetual contest to help people get in shape. The participants all help each other & cheer each other on, but it is still a competition so I'll stay motivated because I'll want to win.
Lastly, I am going to post EVERYTHING. Pictures, weigh-ins, measurements, updates, etc. Once a month, I will weigh, measure & picture my progress. Every entry on My Fitness Pal will be public. I'll even post pics of my meals so you can help keep me honest.
If anybody wishes to join me for any part of this, that would be awesome. If you want to try out Isagenix for yourself and see how good it works, send me a private message & I can help you out with that & get you a discount on your order. If you work with me and want to do the workout in the morning with me, talk to me and we'll set up a time to meet up there.
For everybody else, I need you to keep me honest and accountable. Ask me why I haven't posted if I have not, ask me for updates. Words of encouragement will always be welcome. Friendly advice will always be accepted.
It is now Friday, August 31st. Labor Day weekend. When I weighed my self this morning, I weighed 240 lbs. I am going to measure myself Saturday, September 1st, and post my measurements. I will begin everything Monday, Labor Day, with the first day of Insanity & the 11 day Isagenix Jump Start.
Wish me luck.
At the beginning of this year, I weighed 270 lbs & was a 42/44 inch waist. I had set a goal of being either 200 lbs or a 38 inch waist by the 4th of July. By the 4th of July, I had dropped 50 lbs and was a loose 40 inches. So, I hadn't reached my goal, but I was still pretty proud of myself, especially considering that the majority of loss was attributed to diet change and me starting Isagenix.
Anyways, the summer came. Barbecues, vacation, beer, & parties accumulated to a 10 lb relapse. So, here I sit today: 240 lbs, 39-40 inch waist, in that awkward position where some clothes fit too loose, some that I haven't worn in a while now fitting, & trying to figure out what to keep, what to toss, & what to buy. All I do know is that I want to get to ~200lbs and/or a 36 inch waist. And I want to have this accomplished by New Years. So, how am I going to do it? That's what I need you for.
Here's the game plan: First and foremost, I am starting up Isagenix again. Losing all that weight I did while on it was no accident. I also felt healthier both physically and mentally, slept better, and it was dead simple to follow. I also notice I was a lot more even keel emotionally. Not sure if it was anecdotal, but it's worth mentioning.
Secondly, I am going to begin doing the Insanity workout. The gym at my job (how cool is that?!) has a tv in the studio room, I guess you could call. Bottom line, it's the perfect place for me to go do Insanity. There aren't that many people there in the morning so I wouldn't really be putting anyone out.
Thirdly, I'm going to start tracking with My Fitness Pal. I paid a lot more attention to everything when I used it. It kept me honest.
Fourth, I am go to do the "IsaBody Challenge". Basically, Isagenix runs a perpetual contest to help people get in shape. The participants all help each other & cheer each other on, but it is still a competition so I'll stay motivated because I'll want to win.
Lastly, I am going to post EVERYTHING. Pictures, weigh-ins, measurements, updates, etc. Once a month, I will weigh, measure & picture my progress. Every entry on My Fitness Pal will be public. I'll even post pics of my meals so you can help keep me honest.
If anybody wishes to join me for any part of this, that would be awesome. If you want to try out Isagenix for yourself and see how good it works, send me a private message & I can help you out with that & get you a discount on your order. If you work with me and want to do the workout in the morning with me, talk to me and we'll set up a time to meet up there.
For everybody else, I need you to keep me honest and accountable. Ask me why I haven't posted if I have not, ask me for updates. Words of encouragement will always be welcome. Friendly advice will always be accepted.
It is now Friday, August 31st. Labor Day weekend. When I weighed my self this morning, I weighed 240 lbs. I am going to measure myself Saturday, September 1st, and post my measurements. I will begin everything Monday, Labor Day, with the first day of Insanity & the 11 day Isagenix Jump Start.
Wish me luck.
Thursday, August 23, 2012
Happy Birthday Christien!!
It is now coming up on eight years since I last saw or held you my son. I want you to do good in school Christien. Be the protective big brother your sisters are going to need. Hold true to the respect & discipline they're teaching you in ROTC. And take no prisoners on the football field.
God has a plan for us. I don't know what it is yet, but I have to believe it will be for the best because He does all things for good. I love you, mi hijo. Keep me in your heart same as I keep you in mine.
Behave yourself for your mother. Be strong. Be brave. Be you. Que Dios te bendiga Christien, y Feliz Cumpleaños!!!
Saturday, June 9, 2012
Friday, May 11, 2012
Shay's Picks: Lessons in Leadership from Bill Shankly
Shay's Picks: Lessons in Leadership from Bill Shankly: The following is an exercise I completed for the Leadership class this Spring at Dalton State College . A big thank you goes out to my Live...
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Amendment One
My personal opinion about Amendment One: Jesus would be disgusted with this. Those who know me know how serious I take that statement. For those considering voting for it: I've read the amendment. Have you? Or are you just following marching orders? Has the person who is giving you those orders read it? I have been blessed to have some awesome religious leaders in my life, but I have also known some who lost their way, which is why I no longer take their words at face value. I research & I base my opinions on my findings.
I am reminded of the saying "The Road to Perdition is paved with good intentions". The USA, which I have heard MANY pastors & religious leaders say is supposed to be a beacon of Christianity in this world, is supposed to be a tolerant and respectful society. This amendment changes that. If the bible is supposed to be the truth, which I know it is, show me where Jesus- not the Old Testament prophets nor Paul- talks about hating any one group or restricting another. You can't, because what Jesus preached about was love and respect. "Do unto others".
Reread the beatitudes and tell me if the people this amendment affects aren't the same people He's talking about. This amendment is all about legalizing bigotry, hate, and intolerance regardless of whatever collateral damage it may cause.
I am vociferously voting NO on Amendment One & if that upsets any of my Christian friends, there is a button on all the social media sites to remove me as a friend. However, read it all carefully, & don't just pay attention to what it does say, but also what it does not, then ask yourself deep down in your heart and soul- Is this really what Jesus would want? I did. & now you know my answer.
Amendment One
My personal opinion about Amendment One: Jesus would be disgusted with this. Those who know me know how serious I take that statement. For those considering voting for it: I've read the amendment. Have you? Or are you just following marching orders? Has the person who is giving you those orders read it? I have been nlessed to have some awesome religious leaders in my, but I have also known some who lost their way, which is why I no longer take their words at face value. I research & I base my opinions on my findings.
I am reminded of the saying "The Road to Perdition is paved with good intentions". The USA, which I have heard MANY pastors & religious leaders say is supposed to be a beacon of Christianity in this world, is supposed to be a tolerant and respectful society. This amendment changes that. If the bible is supposed to be the truth, which I know it is, show me where Jesus- not the Old Testament prophets nor Paul- talks about hating any one group or restricting another. You can't, because what Jesus preached about was love and respect. "Do unto others".
Reread the beatitudes and tell me if the people this amendment affects aren't the same people He's talking about. This amendment is all about legalizing bigotry, hate, and intolerance regardless of whatever collateral damage it may cause.
I am vociferously voting NO on Amendment One & if that upsets any of my Christian friends, there is a button there to remove me as a friend. However, read it all carefully, & don't just pay attention to what it does say, but also what it does not, then ask yourself deep down in your heart and soul- Is this really what Jesus would want? I did. & now you know my answer.
Christien, daddy loves you & misses you. Que Dios te bendiga
Monday, February 20, 2012
Tecumseh's Prayer
So, I went to a sneak preview of "Act of Valor" last week- the movie with the real Navy Seals. I don't want to give too much of the movie away, but, suffice it to say, it is an awesome movie that you must go see. Anyways, I wanted to be sure to post about this one particular part of the movie before it came out and everybody else started talking about it.
One of the main characters had a special message for his son. It was a poem by the Shawnee chief Tecumseh. Given the story line of the movie, and the time where it was presented, the prayer provided particular impact. Generally speaking, though, its message is so deep and profound that I felt the need to share it. It is also going to be going up on my cubicle wall:
"So live your life that the fear of death can never enter your heart.
Trouble no one about their religion;
respect others in their view, and demand that they respect yours.
Love your life, perfect your life, beautify all things in your life.
Seek to make your life long and its purpose in the service of your people.
Prepare a noble death song for the day when you go over the great divide.
Always give a word or a sign of salute when meeting or passing a friend,
even a stranger, when in a lonely place.
Show respect to all people and grovel to none.
When you arise in the morning give thanks for the food and for the joy of living.
If you see no reason for giving thanks, the fault lies only in yourself.
Abuse no one and no thing, for abuse turns the wise ones to fools
and robs the spirit of its vision.
When it comes your time to die, be not like those whose hearts are filled
with the fear of death, so that when their time comes they weep
and pray for a little more time to live their lives over again in a different way.
Sing your death song and die like a hero going home."
Chief Tecumseh (Crouching Tiger) Shawnee Nation 1768-1813
Every father should want to give this poem to their son. Every man should want to live up to its edicts. Its words both comfort and embolden at the same time.
Christien, I can only pray that you are reading this. There is a reason why I speak to you in every post, It is the only way I am allowed to do so. When I tell you You'll Never Walk Alone, it's because I am always carrying you in my heart. Behave for your mother and help her in any way you can. God only gives one mother in this world, and she is to always be cherised. Que Dios te bendiga, mi hijo. Cuidate, and never doubt that I love you, son.
Saturday, February 4, 2012
Happy Birthday Aaron
Well, I officially became the father of an adult today. While I'm proud of my son & love him as only a father can, I still have to say: I don't feel old enough to have an adult son!! Compounding matters is the fact that my youngest, Christien, is a freshman in high school & Aaron graduates this year. Old age will not take me without a fight, I promise that.
Aaron, now that you are an adult, always remember your father loves you & though I haven't been perfect all these years, I still tried to be the best I could be. No father could be prouder of the person you have become. You've had to work harder than others just to achieve the same results, but you never back ed down. Keep that attitude. It will serve you well as you continue on in your life. At the same time though, don't ever let go of your child like heart. It is one of your best attributes.
Happy birthday son. I love you, & You'll Never Walk Alone.
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