Marathon Woman

Did you get the memo that this race we call life is not a sprint but a marathon?  This was the very thing I had to remind myself last week as I looked at how much traction my new business was getting.  Traction on trying to change the lives of each and every one of you.  Yes I was getting discouraged as I positioned myself as the woman in the desert with the sweaty cooler of bottled water waiting for you to come.  “If you fill it they will come” is what I thought.  Well when that didn’t happen I had thoughts of entrepreneurial suicide but a friend reminded me just today that I was running a marathon to make the NEXT version of myself the BEST version of myself and to do the same for others.  Thus I had to be patient and remain focused but stay committed for the long run which I commit to myself and each of you today…..

 

So I must first say that I appreciate the overwhelming support from the tee-shirt sales, I really do.  However, what I have to offer is so much more valuable than apparel.  It’s the essence, passion and purpose behind the message on the shirts.  It’s not a slogan but a new way of thinking.  A new way of life which is why I’m so passionate about it, not just for my life but for each of you as well.  I am a coach and mentor by nature and for those of you that are living and existing outside of your BEST version, I have that cooler here waiting for you to quench your thirst on the way towards your destiny but I can’t make you drink nor will I.  It’s a decision you must make on your own and you really can’t afford not to because you are greater than your current circumstances.  Don’t have the money – EXCUSE.  Don’t have the time – EXCUSE.  Don’t know what you want – EXCUSE.  Don’t have ……… - EXCUSE.  Many of you will continue to crawl past your destiny and a more bountiful future but for those that want more, meet me on the edge of the oasis at www.realizethepowerofyou.com

Phenomenal Woman...That's YOU!!

  There are days when you wake up thinking the burdens on your shoulders are so heavy. You wonder how you will make it through the next moment, day, or week. 

  Do you remember your elders saying words like, “Don’t complain, things will get better.” or “You think you have it bad, there is someone else who is going through something more difficult or challenging than what you are.”?

  Have you heard of Robin Roberts, co-anchor from Good Morning America? Are you aware of what she’s been through in the last few months and years? If not, take a few minutes out of your busy day to view her touching story and then think about what you have going on in your life. I am NOT saying your issues and concerns are not real and valid, but think about what you could be going through and how blessed YOU really are each and every day.

  Kudos to Robin for her strength, endurance, determination and willingness to share her story with each of us.

http://abc.go.com/watch/2020/SH559026/VD55277795/2020-222-robin-roberts-journey

 

Pork....Know the truth!!

Brain worm - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJCh7bR1Nf0

Be Honest

Be honest with yourself for a minute.  You aren’t where you need to be.  You’re not setting the example you’d like to set and you’re not living the destiny you were meant to live.  I’m not claiming victory but I am getting closer to my goal of helping people continue to mature and get out of there own way.  Let me share this story with you.  Early on in this journey, I was focused on weight loss and got discouraged because while I saw some success and engagement, it wasn’t at the level I was expecting.  I saw people in danger in regards to their lives and health and while they bought the book, hit the “Like” button on all my posts, talked about what they were going to do but at the end of the day, they weren’t committed.


I almost made a decision to give up but instead, I refocused and began to understand that my message, my gift to each of you was not about weight loss but how some things in your life can hold you back, how the decisions you make can be limiting your destiny.  I got an email the other day about a woman who had some serious health conditions and a friend tried to talk to them and encourage them but felt they weren’t getting through.  As a last resort, they gave them a copy of my book “588 Days”.  I later learned that the woman actually read my book, listened to my story and saw herself as she read my struggles with weight loss and self esteem.  I’ve had other successes with people along the way and I feel the chance I took by being transparent in my book helped this woman and has helped others.  Some people may wonder, what qualifies me to coach someone’s whether it be weight loss or transforming “Make the Next Version of YOU, The Best Version of YOU” yourself.  Well it’s because I have lived and I am living it.  This version that I am in not my final version.  I am changing, I am transforming and I can help you succeed as I have succeeded no matter what your goals or destiny.  This story has re-energized me and touched my heart and I applaud this woman taking the step towards her next version through my open, honest and transparent example.  So, whatever your goals, I am here for you an your journey as you Realize The Power of YOU!!!!!!!

Visit my website at www.realizethepowerofyou.com today!!!

Gratitude, belief, and faith...YOU can do it!

If you ever have one of those days when you doubt yourself, don't feel like you can take it anymore, and have that "woe is me" attitude....and you WILL...view this documentary about Robin Roberts' journey.

As you listen to Robin's story, think about those times in life when you questioned God, yourself, and others. You wondered why things were happening to you...at this very moment.

When you think you just can't shoulder another problem, tragedy or situation, just KNOW...YOU have potential and strength inside of you which you haven't even tapped yet. YOU can do this!!

How many times have you come through situations but originally thought things couldn't get worse, you wouldn't make it through, you were ready to quit and many other negative thoughts.

Now, you are here today...YOU made it through!!!


Fair warning...grab a box of tissue.

http://abc.go.com/watch/2020/SH559026/VD55277795/2020-222-robin-roberts-journey


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Maintain and not gain - Everyday trials

Greetings to All,

It is been a long while since I've blogged. Please forgive me.

Like many of us, I have gone through some trials and tribulations regarding my journey. Don't get it twisted, just because I reached my goals back in 2010 does not mean I don't continue to struggle each and every day.

Yes, I have the tools and knowledge available to me to keep my weight where I want it to be, but, I am human. Do you know what that means? It means that each and every day is a trial for me.  Sound familiar?

Look, it is was as easy as pushing the "easy" button, then we all would be claiming the victory of weight loss...but, that is not the case.

There are days when I just want to throw it all in and go for it (pies, cakes, pasta, breads, etc.). Every time I look at food or smell it in my nostrils, I have a discussion with one of my many selves. You know what I mean. The one self that tells you, "no, don't eat that...it's not worth it", and then the other self that says, "gone, Girl...eat it...enjoy it...it won't hurt you".

I fight with these feelings on a very frequent basis. What helps me get through?

Several things:

1. Knowing that Allah(God) is on my side and has equipped me with what I need to get through these trials.
2. Having the knowledge of right and wrong. Having better educated myself on food, portions, the effects of food on my mind, body, and soul, and the short/long term effects on my overall health. (note - I thank The Most Honorable Elijah Muhammad for giving us the book series called "How to Eat to Live")
3. Knowing I can accomplish whatever I set my mind to.
4. Realizing I, too, will have my good and bad days...but, that doesn't mean I have to beat myself up each time I slip.
5. Remembering to get back up and restart my journey whenever I find myself falling.
6. Remembering...I AM WORTH IT!!!!
7. Finally, telling myself I have "no excuses!!!"

Why am I sharing this? Well, here is an update on my journey. I've gone up and down in my weight since 2010. Believe it or not, I found/gained 23 pounds back as one point or another. Did I let that defeat me...heck no!!!!

What did I do? I remember who and whose I am. I am mighty, powerful, valuable, strong, and faithful. I know what steps to take to get the weight off and I refused to gain anymore than I already gained.

I got back on my feet, checked myself, readjusted my eating habits, and went for it. YOU can do it, too!!

Look, you are not in this alone. We all have our challenges in one shape, form, or fashion. When you have a bad day, don't linger in pity and completely get off course. Recognize your errors or faults, recalibrate, and resume your journey. Yes, it's not an easy thing to do. Yes, you are going to want to reach your goals overnight, but the reality is..."struggle is ordained and after struggle comes ease" - The Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan.

To date, I am down 13 pounds and plan to work my way back to my goal.

Remember...You Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!!

"Youniversity Leadership Series" - Come Join us on November 5, 2011

Breaking Habits --- Try It For ONE Week!!!

Often times in life, we make sacrifices on various levels. Sometimes we sacrifice money, time, energy, and so much water. What sacrifices have YOU made for your life and your overall health and well being? Be honest with yourself!!!
One of the first things YOU need to do is recognize and admit to a habit(s) of yours that is not contributing to your overall health. Maybe that habit is frequent trips to restaurants/fast food establishments, soda/pop, snacks at the vending machines, or those sweets that satisfy your sweet tooth. Whatever it is, I'm pretty confident YOU could give up this habit for at least a week.

Don't start doubting yourself right out of the gate. You haven't even started off the week yet and you are already saying what you can't do. Have faith in YOU! Believe that you can handle this challenge with NO problem. After all, it's just ONE week. Come on, YOU can do this!!

Many of us know it takes about 21 days to start and break a habit. Imagine this, WHEN you complete this challenge, you will feel some much better about yourself, your abilities, and YOU, overall.  You will be amazed at what you can do!!!

For the last 28 days, billions of Muslims have been observing the Holy Month of Ramadan. For those that are not aware of what that entails, the observance includes NO eating, drinking, or sexual activity during the daylight hours. Now, you might be saying to yourself, "There is no way in the world that I could go that long without eating or drinking." You know what, you would be amazed at how much strength you really have. Plus, as the month goes on, you really start to appreciate those things that you take for granted, like a simple glass of water or a morsel of food. It puts a whole lot of things in perspective. It has made me more grateful than I have been in awhile.

Try to give up one thing for one week! Get a buddy, partner, neighbor, friend, or family member to do this challenge with you.

When you are done with the challenge, add a comment to this blog and let us know how successful you were. Even if you found it challenging, share that as well. None of us are perfect and masters at this whole health thing. We all struggle at some point or another. It's what you do during those times of struggles that are important to your success.
I wish you the best on your challenge. Take a leap of faith and Just Do It!!!

*** New *** - "You Are Worth It" Consultation Packages, Workshops and Seminars now available...Just for YOU!!

http://findtimeforyou.blogspot.com/2011/08/consultation-packages-and-workshops-now.html


** 588 Days article appears in The Final Call Newspaper

http://findtimeforyou.blogspot.com/2011/08/588-days-appears-in-final-call.html

Consultation Packages and Workshops Now Available - How Can I Help You?

Announcement -- now I have a Consultation Package JUST FOR YOU!!!

Price: $75 ($63 if already own a copy of the 588 Days! book)

Duration: 3 months from receipt of payment

Includes:

·         Autographed copy of 588 Days! book

·         Weekly consultation sessions and monitoring

·         Weekly inspirational messages

·         Access to Lorraine via email, phone, Facebook, or Skype

·         Response to inquiries within 24-48 hours

·         Accountability contract

·         Monthly support group conference call

·         Tips on cooking, recipes, eating, fitness and planning

See the flyers below for more information, including Workshops/Seminars. They would be great for your organization, church, mosque/study group, classroom, or other gatherings.

588 Days appears in The Final Call Newspaper

"I Can't Take It Anymore"... Overcoming the desire to quit

How many times have you looked in the mirror wishing for the clear evidence that all of your hard work, eating right, and exercising have truly paid off? Maybe you are looking for a smaller face in the mirror, thinner arms, a smaller waistline, or some visual sign. What do you do when you don't see that sign?

I know that this is a long and hard journey. DON'T give up. Stay in it for the long haul. Even if you don't see the noticeable differences on the outside, how do you feel on the inside? Do you have more energy, do you feel more confident in yourself?

I encourage everyone to take pictures of yourself along your journey.Those living with you may not notice the difference in you right away but when you and your family members look at your pictures, you should see some differences.

How about those clothes? Have you lost a few inches here and there? If you answered "yes" to any of these questions, then keep forging forward. Something that you are doing is working for you.

Give yourself some time to get it all together. As I've said several times before...it didn't take you a day to gain that extra weight and it won't take you a day to get it off.

Take the small victories as they come and wait for the big ones. One day, you will have people stopping you in the hallway or on the street asking you, "What have you been doing? You look good! You've lost a lot of weight!".  Even if NO ONE ever says those words to you, you have to answer to yourself and God as to what you have done to get your mind, body, and spirit back on the right track.

Here are some quotes from 588 Days! Balancing Act of Faith, Family, & Finding Time for ME in the chapter called "I Can't Take It Anymore":

"I encourage you and I to keep forging forward, particularly during those times when you just want to throw in the towel. Those should be the times when you dig deep into your inner strength and call about your faith to get you through. Those should be the times when you recognize all of the hard work you’ve done so far and congratulate yourself for coming this far. Those should be the times when you reassess your eating and exercise regimen to determine where improvements could/should be made that would yield you your desired results.

Below you will find some quotes from the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan that reaffirm to me that the struggles, trials, and tribulations I was experiencing on this journey were ordained and I was not alone.

“Brothers and Sisters, each time we turn away from the struggle to overcome difficulty, there then is deterioration of character and there is destruction of the Will---and the Will is that within you is God’s gift. It is His Essence that He gives to man and anything that deteriorates your Will destroys you ability to cope with the problems of life. Struggle is ordained.” ~  Self-Improvement: The Basis for Community Development by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan – page 3

“Struggle is ordained by God. God is not a vicious God. He is a Loving, a Beneficent and Merciful God, but He ordains struggle. Because without struggle, you cannot bring out of yourself that which God has deposited within you. It is something that has to be brought out and it is a struggle overcoming difficulties that manifest your own gifts and your own sublime qualities.” ~  Self-Improvement: The Basis for Community Development by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan – page 3

“’Impatience’ is defined as an ‘eager desire for relief or change; intolerance of anything that thwarts or hinders.’ Thus we see that it is a force which is natural and which is characterized as a desire. Desire feeds the Will, therefore, the desire to be relieved from the irritation of waiting over a protracted period of time comes into conflict with the desire for any goal which requires patience to obtain. One force must win over the other.” - Self-Improvement: The Basis for Community Development by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan –  Building the Will, Part III Study Guide #7

“Impatience, or the desire for relief or change, may be removed from us, not by yielding to this natural force, but by seeking refuge in Allah (God). Whenever impatience threatens to cause us to turn away from a desired goal, we must go to Allah (God), the Lord of the ways of Ascent, in prayer. Prayer will give us the security and peace of mind that will relieve our irritation. It is that frame of mind that we then must re-identify with our desired goal. The desire (and the willingness to be patient in order to obtain it) will then return.” Self-Improvement: The Basis for Community Development by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan –  Building the Will, Part III Study Guide #7

“It is written in the Holy Qur’an, which is the Book of Scripture for the Muslims, that Allah created man to face difficulties. God has brought us all onto this Earth to face one difficulty after another and it is the facing of these difficulties and the overcoming of these difficulties that helps us to improve our character and improve ourselves” ~ Self-Improvement: The Basis for Community Development by the Honorable Minister Louis Farrakhan – page 2

Although these times seem frustrating, disappointing, filled with anxiety and doubt, these should be the times when you kick it into gear and press on. You’ll be amazed at yourself when you do!"

"Remember...You Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses"

July 18, 2010 - July 18, 2011 - What a difference a year makes - Maintenance

This time last year, I was in a state of amazement, awe, excitement, grateful, humbled and overjoyed. You see, on July 18, 2010, I achieved my last weight loss goal of reaching 140 pounds by my 40th birthday (September 1st). Not only did I reach my goal, but I did it ahead of schedule.

I had to jot down what I was feeling at on July 18, 2010. These words can be found in my book, 588 Days! Balancing Act of Faith, Family, & Finding Time for ME in Chapter 31:

           On Sunday, July 18, 2010, I celebrated the accomplishment of my final weight loss goal. I’m now 140 pounds and loving it!!!

          On that morning, I stepped up on the scale, as I do each day, and as I secretly prayed that this would be the day I reached my goal, there it was. The number on the scale this particular morning read 140.0!

          You can only imagine what was going through my head and my heart. The words, “Wow!”, “Oh my goodness!”, “All Praises Are Due To Allah (APADTA)!”, and “Thank You!” were just some of the words floating through my head.

          Once again, my family was asleep and I didn’t want to wake them up to tell them the good news quite yet. This accomplishment felt different. Although it was worth the biggest shout and scream I could muster up, this time, I felt a sense of quiet and peace of mind. It was a very surreal and humbling feeling that came over me that morning. It is very hard to explain it in words.

          As I stood there and took pictures of the scale to add to my scrapbook and place on Facebook®, I just couldn’t believe what I was seeing. There, right before my eyes, was the number I have worked towards for 588 days! I had reached the proverbial mountaintop. I felt like those mountain climbers who strive to climb Mount Everest and actually succeed.

          While standing in the shower and reflecting on the moment, tears started to flow down my cheek and my heart felt very heavy. I predicted I would feel that way all day long. I took a moment to sit, in humbleness, and reflect on my mental, physical, and spiritual health and weight. I remember, so vividly, the day I started this leg of my journey in December 2008 and what has transpired to get me to this special day in July 2010. Others may not see or believe it, but I am a different person in so many ways. All Praises Are Due To Allah!

What has this year been like? Well, I have to be honest and say that it has had its up's and down's. Yes, I reached my goal and I celebrated. I went shopping, got some new clothes, enjoyed the new look and the ability to wear anywhere from a Size 4 to a Size 8. Being able to get into those smaller sizes at one time seemed like just a dream. There were times when I didn't know if I would make it to my desired weight but you know what, I didn't give up. I keep forging forward, not matter how frustrated, discouraged or tired I might have been. I knew that with the help of Allah (God), my determination, and the support of my family and friends, I would reach all of my goals (sooner or later).


During this year, I had my moments of backsliding. I ate some of the foods that I stayed away from for so long. I guess that desire just took over me. :-) Some of my portion sizes grew a little bit, but definitely not back to the old days.

I gained a few pounds here and there. Some times, my clothes that were now a few sizes smaller than they used to be were fitting tight in certain places.


The good thing, for me, about this time around is that I didn't get upset with myself when the scale had a few higher numbers than I desired. Do you know why? It's because I KNEW that I had the strength, will and determination to do what it would take to get back on track. I knew that getting upset over the extra weight would not solve the problem. It just meant that I needed to reel things back in and kick it up a notch.

Don't be deceived in thinking that the maintenance part of the journey is easy. Remember, this is a LIFESTYLE change. If you ever watched the Biggest Loser Show on NBC, you will remember that the contestants and the trainers talk about what life will be like when they leave the ranch. Yes, it may be easier for them to lose the weight and stay focused when they are on the ranch and surrounded by the trainers, support of others, a gym that is open 24 hours, and the ability to only focus on their journey....but what happens when you step back into reality? What happens when you live your day to day life (as busy as it is) and you have to prioritize your journey in with all of the other things going on in your life? It is NOT easy, but it is so worth it!!!

Today is a day of new beginnings in so many ways. We've been given a chance to start over. Many of you will probably be able to bear witness to the grace and mercy that we are given each day to do things right and to start over. Every day that you wake up, take a breath, and let your feet touch the ground, you have been given a chance to start over!

We MUST do something about our health and the health of our family, particularly the youth of today. Start in your own home with your family. Branch out to the community and do what you can to save the life of someone else. Our lives depend on making a change in our mindset, our health, our behaviors, and our physical activities.

Commit yourself to something positive, worthwhile, and healthy. We commit ourselves to everyone and everything else, how about committing YOURself to YOURself.

Ask whatever higher power you believe in for strength, guidance, discipline, and forgiveness. Search deep inside your mind, body, and soul. Take a leap of faith and just go for it.

"Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!

Much love,

Sister Lorraine S. Muhammad

www.findtimeforyou.com

October 2008

July 18, 2010 - Reached my goal of 140 lbs.

July 2011 - one year later

Eating on the go -- restaurants, buffets, fast food, etc.

Although our schedules aren't always conducive to eating at home, that doesn't mean that we need to lose our minds at the restaurants, fast food chains, and buffets. Look, you are paying your hard earned money for the food that you order, you have the RIGHT to order your food they way that you want to.

What do I mean? Well, just because you are not in the comfort of your own kitchen doesn't mean that you can't take control of the food that you order. Your food does not have to be buried in butter, oils, sauces, cheeses, etc. just because it was on the restaurant menu. You have every right to ask the waiter/waitress to take off the oils, not tp put butter on your food, or to put your sauces/dressings on the side.

Here's an example. Most of the time when you order a salad, it is drenched with more salad dressing then you really need. It's like you are having dressing with salad versus salad with dressing. Here's a tip... the next time that you order a salad, have them put the dressing on side instead of on top of your salad. This way, YOU control how much dressing you put on YOUR salad. You will probably find that you won't put the entire saucer of dressing on your salad that accompanies your meal.

Another thing that you can do is ask for a box so that you can put up some of your food as soon as it comes to your table. Just because all of that food was on your plate DOESN'T mean that you have to eat it all. Now, I know that many of us were taught and trained to eat whatever was on our plate. Well, that has contributed to our larger than life waistlines, thighs, hips, and stomachs. You can share your meal with your dinner-mate or simply ask the waiter for a box to put half of your food in right away. Again, change your thinking and mindset...it's for your own good.

Now for the buffets...I bear witness that this can be a challenge. It don't know what it is about buffets but we tend to have the mindset that "I need to get my money's worth" when you go to a buffet. :-)

We get in line at the buffet and our eyes become bigger than our stomachs. We start thinking about all that we can eat and drink. We go up for seconds, thirds, and even fourths, right...or is it just me? :-)

Even at the buffet, we have to have some control, otherwise, we will lose control and then our waistlines will expand. I bear witness to it this past weekend. At our Family Reunion, we went to the buffet on two occasions. Man, I had a good time but now, I have the 4 pounds to show for it. It happened over the course of 3 days. Although I had a good time eating, I am paying for it now. I have to hit that gym harder this week to work off the fun that I had this weekend with our family.

With all that I've said above, I hope that you realize that we all have choices. I know that there are times when we want or need to eat out but remember, there is a consequence and reaction for EVERYTHING that we do. It's okay to have fun with your eating and explore new things ONCE in awhile and in MODERATION, but remember, you may have to work a little harder once the fun is done to regain control and get back on track.

Don't be frustrated and quit though. Get back on it quickly and don't beat yourself up.

"Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!!

At This Very Moment!

You Are Worth It….At This Very Moment!!!

Thank YOU for taking time out of your busy schedule to start making a difference in your life at this very moment.

As you view read through the 588 Days! book or hear my testimonial regarding my weight loss / health journey, keep one thing in mind. My life, situation, and circumstances that contributed to the start of this leg of my journey were not much different than yours. See, at that very moment in my life, I knew that I needed to make a change in order to save my life. At that very moment, I knew that I had some decisions to make in order to be present in the lives of my family and children. I knew, at that very moment, that enough was enough!

There is not a whole lot that separates what I did from where you are headed. It all comes down to decisions that we make in our life at this very moment. You’ve already made a key decision at this very moment when you decided to take this handout.

At this very moment, you may be struggling with some decisions of your very own. At this very moment, you may have been given a medical evaluation from your physician indicating that your health is not ideal. Maybe, you’ve had a reality check moment where you’ve looked in the mirror and are disgusted with what you see on the other side.

No matter what made you seek assistance, at this very moment, it’s all about the decisions that YOU are going to make for YOU in the future. YOU have everything that you need inside of YOU!

At this very moment, stop making excuses. Stop saying what you can’t do. Stop putting others and their needs in front of your own health and well-being. That’s not to say that others are not important, but often times we do so much for others that we often neglect our own selves and our needs.

At this very moment, what are you willing to commit to? What steps are you prepared to take to regain control of your health? Tomorrow is not promised to any of us. We often over analyze, ponder excessively, and over complicate things that should be so simple.

Make up in your mind, at this very moment, that you are going to bring the New YOU to fruition. At this very moment, close your eyes, take a deep breath, and envision the New YOU. Did a smile come on your face? Do you feel more confident?  Do you like the way that you look?

Well then, what are you waiting for? At this very moment, don’t make any more excuses.  Just do it!!! Commit and don’t quit!!!

Call on whatever higher power that you believe in for strength and spiritual connection to get you through this very moment.

YOU Are Worth It…at this very moment and in all of the moments you have left on this earth. Seize the moment!!!!

I wish you continued blessings on your journey. Believe in YOU and say to yourself, “I am making the right decision for my life at this very moment.”

Peace and Blessings from your sister,

Lorraine S. Muhammad

“Remember…YOU Are Worth It…Just Do It…NO Excuses!!!” * http://www.findtimeforyou.com/

For The Family Productions *Lorraine S. Muhammad – Founder, Author, and Inspirational Speaker
* P.O. Box 877, Bloomington, IL 61702-0877 * 309-531-0032 *

©Copyright 2011 Lorraine S. Muhammad. All Rights Reserved

Hit the snooze button one time too many - pounds are coming back!!!! (frown)

They say that confession is good for the soul. Well, it's time for my confession everyone.

Over the last couple of months, I've hit the snooze button just one time too many. Now, many of you that know me know that I typically go to my "second home" (the gym) every morning. I like doing my workout in the morning. I feel energized and...I get it over with early.

Now, I've still been doing my exercises for 30 minutes everyday but it's just not the same. I haven't felt as energized as I've had in the past. I've gotten a bit relaxed with my journey over the last couple of months. I'm still aware of what I eat and that I don't want to backslide into the habits that got me to the point where I was over 200 pounds, but man...my journey took a turn.

All is not lost!!I know that I haven't been doing all that I can do to keep my weight maintained like I should. When I hit my goal of 140 back in July 2010, I gave myself a 5 pound range that I would be comfortable with should I pick up a few pounds. Well, I went a couple of pounds about that range and I DON'T like it.

The good thing is, I KNOW that I can get back on track. Why, you may ask...because I've done it before. I know what it takes to get the weight off and I am re-dedicating myself to my journey. I will do my best not to hit the snooze button in the morning...even though the pillow be calling me to just lay back down. (smile).

Yes, the extra sleep is nice but I just don't feel the same. I end up fussing at myself for laying back down and not getting my tail up like I should. It really throws my day off. Plus, I don't like what the scale is telling me right now. It once was my friend but now...I'm not too fond of it. I'm just being real and truthful!!!

So, I'm striving to get back on my path like I used to be. Sometimes, it's not easy. There are times when you want to quit or take a detour but ask yourself...is it worth it? Although the detour from your journey may be nice for a time...is it really worth it?

If you have any similar stories, please feel free to share. I know that I am not the only one that is going through such a challenge as staying motivated.

"Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!"

Think Before You Eat - what do you use food for?

Food...let's think about it. What do you and I use food for? Do we use it to maintain our life? Work through stress and disappointment? Socialize with our friends and family? Relieve boredom? Has food become your best friend and comforter?

Now, after you've answered the above questions, reflect on how your use of food has contributed to your current condition. Are you happy with your current condition? If not, what are you going to do about it?

Here is an exert from 588 Days! Balancing Act of Faith, Family, & Finding Time for ME in the chapter called "The Childbearing Years" -

"Additionally, I could have, and should have controlled my eating. I shouldn’t have made food my comforter and friend. I should have utilized food for the purpose that it served which was to provide nourishment to me and the baby, not to take away my pain, as well as take my mind off of my disappointment in myself."

Here is a video tidbit that might help you - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-cR5EmZJAvo

I hope that something from this blog will help you on your journey.

"Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!
http://www.findtimeforyou.com/

Tips for the summer and holidays

It's the beginning of summer. School is out, graduation commencements/parties have begun, the family reunions are planned, the weddings will start soon, and the grilling season is on and poppin'. What does this mean for your health journey?

Hold on...don't give up. YOU can still work on your journey in the midst of temptations of summer and its festivities.

Here are some tips from 588 Days! Balancing Act of Faith, Family, and Finding Time for ME" in Chapter 17 entitled "Let's Hit the Road":

Let’s say you aren’t going to eat out at a restaurant but rather you are going to eat all of the lovely food prepared for the family reunion, wedding, or somebody’s bbq. How do you handle this? Here are some tips that might come in handy:

1.    Eat before you go to the event. If you find foods you know you can eat and are the right portion size BEFORE you go to the event, then you might not be so tempted to eat the spread that will be laid out in front of you.

2.    Bring your own food with you. If are able to stop at the grocery store or maybe go to a place like Subway® to buy yourself a sandwich, you can bring your sandwich or food with you to the gathering. That way, you are still in attendance at the gathering and can still control what and how much you eat.

3.    If you find yourself indulging in the food that is being served at the event, monitor your portions! You don’t have to sit there and starve, but you can partake in the delicious food, within reason!

Stay focused but yet have fun. Time spent with family, friends, and co-workers can be enjoyable. You don't have to overindulge to have a good time. Think before you eat!!!!

For your own copy of the 588 Days! book, visit http://www.findtimeforyou.com/.

Video Tidbit - Reality Check - Regain Control of Your Health NOW!!

"Just Do It!! - Reality Check - time to regain control of your health!" Don't wait for tomorrow or Monday morning. Do something right NOW!

Check out this video tidbit - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HPYygSiCyAM


Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!!

588 Days! Video Tidbits - Reality Check, Goal Setting, Being a Mommy, Busy Lives, Support System, and Why I Eat the Way that I Do

Greetings,

Attaced you will find some video tidbits that will help you on your journey toward better health and weight loss.

Video #1 - "Reality Check" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tG6YX8OoKgk
Video #2 - "Goal Setting" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4jENrUUzac
Video #3 - "Busy Lives! - Finding Time for YOU!!!" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dngIFLjzbSA
Video #4 - "Being a Mommy / Getting My Body Back" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Za2WNAMiYSY
Video #5 - "Support System on Your Journey" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPz-dzh9gSc
Video #6 - "Why do I/We Eat the Way We Do?" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xhKGj2Iys3Y
Video #7 - "Reward Yourself -- You've Worked Hard For It" - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl6k6ObJZqs


After viewing the videos, let me know what you think. Also, share them with a family member, friend, or co-worker...anyone that is struggling to start or maintain their own journey.

It's my prayer that something that I've experienced over my journey will help you on your journey toward better health.

"Remember...YOU Are Worth It!!!"

Stress - Who or what do you call on to get you through?

Stress!!!

Each of us go through some type of stress at some point in our lives. For many, dealing with stress is a daily or weekly occurrence.

Stress can be caused by so many things, people, or situations. These days, stress seems to be the order of the day. Many of us stress over finances, family, relationships, work, school, planning our days and getting everyone where they need to be, and so much more.

The question of the day is, "How do you and I handle stress"? Who or what do we call on to help ease the pain and get us through those stressful times? Do we call on God or do we call on food/drink which could be a god (force and power) for us?

Many of us turn to food as a comforter. Think about it, food is accessible whether through a vending machine, a visit to a fast food restaurant, or as close as our kitchen. Unless food causes you to have a stomach ache, food typically makes you feel good. It doesn't talk back to you, it doesn't ask you questions, it's not judging our actions and rationale, and it just tastes GOOD!!

Have you thought of alternatives to handling your stress that doesn't include running to food? Some things that help me to avoid turning to food as a comforter are such things as:

• Praying to Allah (God) for strength, guidance, and endurance
• Reading the scriptures
• Reading words of inspiration and motivation, a book, or a magazine
• Exercising
• Talking to family and friends that will give me a positive word to lift my spirits
• Reflect on the many blessings in my life versus the things that may not be going so well at the current time
• Listening to music / dancing
• Going to the movies
• Pamper me time (i.e. - getting my hair and nails done, shopping, massage, etc.)

The next time that you are going through an unpleasant or stressful situation, THINK before you EAT. Before you run to the vending machine, the restaurant, or even the refrigerator, think about what you are doing? Is eating really going to solve your problem? Yes, it feels good at the time but how are you going to feel when the doctor declares that you are overweight and borderline diabetic? How are you going to feel when you step on the scale and notice that you've gained 10-20 pounds due to the eating binge that you've gone on as a means of dealing with your stress? Now, you've just added more stress to your plate.

Was it really worth it? Don't you deserve better? Doesn't your body and mind deserve better?

Remember...YOU Are Worth It...Just Do It...No Excuses!!

Peace,

Sister Lorraine S. Muhammad
Author - "588 Days! Balancing Act of Faith, Family, & Finding Time for ME"
www.findtimeforyou.com