a thoughtful gift & fitness update

by | Oct 31, 2013 | a slice of life, Food & Fitness, Miscellaneus | 74 comments

This post may contain affiliate links.

I planned this week to get started on some of the pieces on my to-do list, but I have been knocked out with a bad cold/flu sort of thing.  It had me bed-bound for a couple of days and has left me dragging through the week.  I’m up and about now, but I just haven’t had it in me to start painting or stripping a piece of furniture and forget trying to organize the attic and guest room.  That’ll have to wait until I’m back to 100%…well, maybe 80% will do…realistically.  It’s tough for me to just sit, but I’ve been focusing on computer work and Jane Austen movies & BBC miniseries have kept me entertained.  (Is anyone else totally bummed that they didn’t make a third season of London Hospital?)

So, I was hoping to have lots of fun stuff to share, but I’ve had to slow down a bit, so I’m just going to share a few random things and an update on my weight loss/fitness journey.

First, I wanted to show off this wonderful gift…

I was busy at the Chapel Market, signing books and taking pictures and a woman was behind me, holding this two-tiered stamp holder in her arms.  The piece caught my eye and I thought, “What a cool find!  How did I miss that before the market opened?”  I turned my attention back to the book signing.  A few minutes later, the woman, who’s name is Paula, was in front of me, still holding the two-tiered stand.  She smiled and handed it to me.

“I brought this for you.  I thought it would be a perfect way for you to display wood knobs painted in all of your milk paint colors or something like that.”  I told her how much I had admired it in her arms and was so surprised that it was for me!  I tell you what…my readers are good peeps.

It was such a thoughtful and kind gift and I can’t wait to find the perfect spot for it.  Thank you so much, Paula.

Now for an update on my fitness/weight loss journey.  You can read about my journey in these posts…

Living with Limits – I had gained 30lbs and had to have my gallbladder removed, so something had to change.

4 steps to minimizing Miss Mustard Seed – My “get fit plan”

My P90x results – 12.5lbs lighter and a lot stronger

So, where am I now?  I’ve lost over 20 lbs since starting my fitness journey and have dropped 4 pant sizes.  Woohoo!

After P90x, I started Insanity and did that for a few weeks.  I liked it, but I kept hurting my back…like, hardly able to straighten my back, keeping heat on it all day, not able to lift anything kind of hurt.    I finally had it x-rayed to make sure it wasn’t injured.  It turns out I have some arthritis going on in my lower back…goodness, at 35…and I have a sway back.  The exercise is helping strengthen my back, but Insanity goes at such a fast pace (and I’m not one to be left behind) that I wasn’t focusing on proper form.  I was just focusing on doing things quickly to keep my heart rate high.  So, I switched back to P90x and introduced P90x2 workouts into the mix.

Well, then I traveled a lot and we went on vacation (I actually lost weight on vacation) and then I jumped back into work when the kids were back in school.  I’ve been doing P90x2, which I really like, but haven’t been consistent about it.  When I started P90x, I viewed it as a head-on challenge to do it for 90 days…no excuses.  No, I’ve gotten lazy.  I’m still eating vegetarian, I still don’t eat overly processed foods or things with MSG, corn syrup, hydrogenated oils, etc, but I’ve stopped tracking my calories and I haven’t made exercise a must in my day. I have been going on regular hikes, though, and find that I love being outside and pushing myself (even in the rain)…

Even though I’m not tracking calories, my new eating habits are so established that I haven’t gained any weight back, thankfully, but I do need to get back to losing again.  I think I’m having trouble getting motivated, mainly because I’m feeling good about where I’m at…

pumpkin scooping 2

…but, at the same time, I still want to get in better shape, to be stronger and more toned and to lose a bit more of the pudge.  So, it is time to buckle down again, workout hard every day, track my calories, monitor my activity with the Up Band and mix things up even more with my diet (I’m planning to remove wheat and sugar for a week to see what happens.)  For my workouts, I’ll do a hybrid of P90x and P90x2…three days of strength, two days of cardio and one day of a  hike/walk/bike ride/family activity.

If you’re working on a fitness plan, I could use some cheerleaders and accountability buddies, so just leave a comment and we’ll push each other along!

Oh!  And I had a personal shopper/stylist get in touch with me a few months ago when I expressed how lost I feel when I got clothes shopping.  I’ve been putting off meeting with her until I’m “where I want to be weight-wise”, but then I decided that was silly.  The point of working with a stylist is learning how to dress in a way that flatters my figure no matter what size I am, so she’s coming out to take a look at my wardrobe, such as it is, on Friday.  I’m a bit nervous about it, I must admit, but excited, too.

Today, I did manage a photo shoot for a special project coming up and here is a sneak peek…

…and I got a new lens in the mail, so I put it on my camera, turned it around and snapped a selfie.  The lens is zoomed all the way out at 24mm, so I could shoot at arms length.  Since I’m pretty close to the camera, there is a bit of distortion, but I like how nice the focus is.

(Go Skins.)

I had three fixed FX lenses (meaning they don’t zoom in or out) – a 50mm, 60mm and 24mm and I found I needed something that can zoom for when I travel, attend events and for more casual shoots, so I bought a refurbished 24-85mm, which covers some of the range I was missing with my fixed lenses.  I am still eyeing the 35mm to add to my collection, but that is a pricey piece of glass, so I’m going to hold off on it for a while.

So, there you go.  A little bit of this and that.

Disclosure: Some of the links in this post are Amazon Affiliate links.

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    74 Comments

    1. Candace @ Vintage News Junkie

      Congrats Marian on being in your happy place!! I know what that feels like to be happy with where you are weight wise! I have been on a roller coaster weight loss journey most of my life. I just finished week nine of a 26 week challenge that I have set forth for myself and I am charting every step (and mis-step) on my blog. It’s my Weight for it Wednesday series. I would love another buddy to cheer along!! This week was a bummer for me… as it was the first week that I gained! Sigh. I have been pretty disappointed since yesterday. But I have been blessed to find other bloggers who are tackling the same beast!! Funny how these things work! God puts people in our paths at certain times for a reason, to inspire, to encourage! I look forward to sharing the journey with you, friend!

    2. Maggie Fieger

      You may just be what I need right now. I’m 61 and have some back issues so Insanity is not an option, but my blood sugar and cholesterol are high and I need to move it and lose about 20 pounds. I’m game if you want to do this.

      I think you look fabulous, by the way!

      Maggie

    3. Dana@chocolateandsunshine

      I started a new weight loss plan when my daughter started school in mid-August. I’ve lost 15 lbs. and did it by walking 5-6 times per week and tracking every calorie into my I-Phone on the MyFitnessPal App. Wow, was I good. But the last two weeks have been so busy that I really need to step it up. The issue is that I love to bake and it’s fall. Pumpkins, apples, cookies. I feel like I’m missing out on a fun activity. But… I’m so happy to be in smaller clothes.

      Congrats to you on your weight loss!! Your selfie makes your face look super slim! And, you are doing it in such a healthy manner, especially with the hiking. As we enter the holidays, we just need to be happy we aren’t gaining and do so by stepping up the exercise because you know we are going to eat the holiday treats. Good luck!!! You should be very proud of what you have accomplished!

    4. ashlea

      I have been doing Metamorphis by Tracy Anderson. I love it. It is specific to your body type. Me being hipcentric. I love it. You do a dance cardio first—which kils me in about 1 minute. But it works. Then you do the muscle structure. Which kills me also. But I can see my body changing in ways it never has. And being pear shaped I love seeing toning on my hips that I have never seen before. As far as diet we eat whole foods, organic all that stuff. But I just have seriously had to work on portion size. Soooo hard. Because I am hungry all the time!!! Metabolism slowing down with age suck!!!!! My 20 year highschool reunion in coming up so I have been sticking with it. Consistency is very hard for me. I am determined this time!

    5. Laurie

      Girl! You look fantastic! Congrats! As I read what you’re doing it makes me chuckle because the dedication that is OBVIOUS in your fitness goals is exactly what has gotten you where you are with Miss Mustardseed. 🙂 Great lesson for the rest of us.

      I would LOVE to go part-time vegetarian, so if you decide to create a little group of encouragers, please add me! I have joined a local gym and am trying to get in there at least twice a week, which is lame… but it’s a start. Since I jumped on the freelance wagon in May, it’s been a challenge to make my schedule work so I can make $ AND be inspired.

      Keep up the good work – hope you feel better soon!

    6. Kelly

      You should look into Rolfing. It changed my aches and pains dramatically and usually does for a lot of people. I was 25 and struggling with just standing for long periods of time, I had heard about it through many friends and how wowed they were with the results and went for it. The results can last for years and made me feel so much happier in my body. Rolf.org is where you can find info and a practitioner in your area, hopefully one is close. Seriously, changed my world and continues to be the biggest help out of everything I have ever done for myself.

    7. Tammy

      Congrats! You look amazing. I have been on my weight loss quest since Jan 19th and have lost 52.2 lbs. I started out with 74 lbs to lose and getting closer. I eat organic foods, no processed foods, sugar, wheat or white flour. I have so much more energy. I’ve dropped from a size 16 to wearing 8’s and small and/or med tops instead of XL. I work out 5 times a week (aerobics mainly) and walk everyday. I love my UPs bracelet. It helps to keep me in check. It’s great to look in the mirror and recognize the face. I love the way I’m looking and enjoy buying cute clothes.

      Keep up the awesome work. Do it now and keep it off! I turned 50 this year and the weight has been hard to lose. Do it while you are young!

      • Patti

        Tammy, Congrats on the “50”, me too! Had a hysterectomy 4 years ago and gained 30 pounds in a matter of months. I was the person who could eat anything and lose weight. I can now smell food and gain. I have 12 more pounds to go and they’re the toughest. Between cravings and hot flashes I don’t know what’s worse. Many best wishes to you, keep up the great work!!!

        Marian, YOU LOOK MARVELOUS!!!!

    8. Gwen

      Sparkling baby blues!!!

    9. Mary Redmiles

      You look great, your new hair do is really cute! Good luck on your continued success with your new health plan, I definitely need to do the same soon. And I LOVE Jane Austen movies and my heart melted when I saw the Redskins jersey….you’ve got great taste in everything 🙂

    10. Belinda

      Congrats on the hard work and discipline to lose the weight and get fit. I don’t know if it’s just me, but I thought it was hilarious that you were talking about weight loss and getting fit, with a “brazilian butt” directly over your head. Funny stuff!!!

      Keep up the great work… I’m rootin’ for ya!

      • Miss Mustard Seed

        LOL…yeah, the down side of talking about weight loss is that the ads get a little crazy. I prefer the Pottery Barn, One Kings Lane, etc. that usually show up when I talk about home decor. 🙂 Oh well, get ready to see the thigh master and slimfast ads!

        • belinda

          Oh, I hope I didn’t offend you, I thought it was hilarious. There’s your sweet face and then hanging out right above you is this half-bare bottom. I didn’t think about the fact that they rotate and are based on your topic… i just assumed it was random and the whole thing just made me laugh.

          I wanted to talk to you at Chapel Market and tell you how amazing you look and how proud I am for you, but you were soooo swamped that I felt guilty taking up your few free moments between the waves of fans and friends.

      • julie

        haha, you got a cute butt…I got term life insurance, lol…(bet I can guess how many years apart we are) 😉

        good luck Marian!!! I just started cleaning up my act a week and a half ago…I was out of control with my eating…I’ve already dropped a few lbs and am feeling better already…**deep breath**…only 90 more to go! :)~

    11. Tavia

      Hi Marian! I love your fitness journey posts because I am on that journey too! I am on week 8 with 1 more to go of Insanity (I consider recovery week a week lol). Last week was my hardest for some reason, out of the blue!! It was awful, I thought 2 more weeks I’ll never make it and then yesterday was awesome, thank God I really needed it. I have a trick back and Insanity almost did me in too, but I think I have got past it. I have to be suuuuuper careful with some things. Anyhow, to continue on after Insanity I got p90x, partly because of your posts!! Thank you, I’ll start after I am finished with Insanity. Planning on doing a hybrid of both. My plan is to be pretty fabulous on my 46th birthday in November lol! Thanks for all the beauty & inspiration!!

    12. KaraLee

      I’m working on losing weight too, so far 30 lbs, The one I’m doing is in different phases, the one I’m one is tough but next week I start adding in more foods. Mostly eating lean meats, veggies & fruit. I’m 53 & don’t want to be an over weight grammie, don’t need to be super skinny just healthy. Thanks for posting your journey!!

    13. AmyR.

      I so enjoyed meeting you at the Chapel Market! I was going to tell you that you looked great, but thought it would be weird since you don’t know me. So anyway, you look great! Keep up all your hard work. You motivate me!

    14. Kaelsma

      I’ve had one of those old stamp holders for sale on Craigslist for MONTHS and haven’t had any interest at all. Of course mine isn’t all shiny like that.

    15. Sharon

      First, you look great! I need to buckle down and get serious about finishing losing weight too.

      And it finally hit me…. you look like Meg Ryan ( pre surgery, America’s sweetheart era. )

      Enjoy your style session!

    16. At Rivercrest Cottage

      I joined Curves 4 months ago and have lost many inches. I’ve never stuck to any gym type thing before, but I love Curves and go 5 days a week. It is quick and super friendly. You can call your local Curves and go for a tour and usually get a free week try-out. My thoughts only, not paid for any advertisement for them. Just grateful I can now move without pain and stiffness.

    17. Jewelee

      You look great.

      How do you like the The UP Bracelet by Jawbone? Do you think the readings are accurate?
      I have insomnia issues that I would love to get a grip on.

      • Miss Mustard Seed

        Yeah, I think the sleep is especially accurate, as far as I know. The steps are accurate enough, given that it’s on your wrist…so, if you’re winding ribbon or something, it counts those as steps and if you’re pushing a shopping cart, it doesn’t count those. It definitely makes me more aware of how active I am and how much sleep I’m getting (or not getting.)

    18. Melinda

      Congrats on the weightloss. I’ve just started doing body rock.tv. They have awesome workouts online. I can’t believe how much stronger I feel after doing these. I enjoy your website. U r very talented.

    19. Kimberly

      Wow, Marian, that was a really nice, thoughtful gift to you from Paula! You have the nicest readers.

      You look fantastic. I can really tell that you’ve not only dropped some weight, but you’ve firmed/tightened up, and you look wonderful. I love the haircut, I adore the nose ring (wish i was brave enough for one!), and OMG do you have the most beautiful blue eyes! That color almost doesn’t look real, I bet people ask you all the time if you’re wearing contacts!

      Have you read “Wheat Belly”? It’s a book written by a guy who went gluten-free and apparently had a lot of success feeling better health-wise as well as reducing bloat and inflammation in his body. Arthritis is a type of inflammation of course, so you may notice improvement in any back stiffness you are experiencing. I recently reinjured my back, and instead of heat, I found that ice packs worked INCREDIBLY well to bring down the pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Though it feels good, heat exacerbates inflammation. Try ice packs; you can alternate them with heat. Since you eat vegetarian, you may also want to look into herbs/spices and even supplements that help with inflammation in the body. Curcurmin is great for that.

      Best,

      Kimberly

      • Patti

        Yes to the comments from Kimberly! My husband’s bad back and overall aches and pains flare up when he eats wheat products, especially bread. The heat feels so good on a sore back but the ice cold packs are better at easing the inflammation. Good luck with it!

    20. Jane

      Congrats on your fitness goals! Count me in on an accountability group. I’ll admit I lost 40lbs three years ago. I used one of those prepackaged meal/shake programs, but also was at the gym everyday. My mom got sick and my focus changed and I slowly slipped back into my old habits and skipped the gym. Most of the weight is back, but I’m ready to try again. I need to work on my eating habits and try to figure out how to get rid of junk, prepackaged, takeout for my family on our crazy schedule. I just need to make myself work out again. I’ll keep reading your posts for motivation!

    21. Kimberly

      Marian, I forgot to tell you in my comment above about a really cute Jane Austen film. “Lost in Austen” was a 2008 mini-series put on by the BBC and you can find it on Netflix. It’s a fantasy adaptation of “Pride and Prejudice” and is the story of a 21st century girl called Amanda who finds herself lost in the story of P&P at the time of Jane Austen. It’s part modern/mostly period piece and shows how this girl from the future essentially throws a monkey wrench in the story by her presence in it. IT’S FABULOUS and you will love it! It’s got a great cast (Hugh Bonneville and Alex Kingston play Mr. and Mrs. Bennett, Gemma Arterton is Elizabeth) and they have THE hunkiest Darcy ever. I especially loved the scene where Amanda has “a weird postmodern moment” seeing Darcy in the pond! You’ll know what I’m talking about when you see it!

      Best,

      Kimberly

      • rachel

        I agree. So fun to watch and the pond scene, is well, perfect. Watch it if you haven’t.

      • Pamela

        I had to watch it a few times as I laughed so much the first couple of times I missed things. I re-watched it last night just for the fun of it. I had bought the DVD as I knew it was a program I would watch again and again.

    22. Camilla @ Something Is Done

      It is so amazing that you have your own milk paint line and this amazing blog and you’re only 35! It inspires me, and makes me a bit jealous haha (I’m a SAHM to an amazing 1 year old, and I love it, but I feel like I never accomplish anything)!

      You’re so disciplined with your weight loss plan, congrats! I was wondering if you had ever tried eating Paleo/primal? Contrary to popular stereotypes, Paleo isn’t necessarily a low-carb diet. A lot of people just focus on eliminating (or almost eliminating) grains and sugars, while eating lots of whole foods — veggies, complex carbs (like sweet potatoes, rutabagas, etc…), and some seafood and grassfed meats. A lot of people I know have lost a lot of weight on it, without counting calories. I don’t personally struggle with weight, but I eat mostly primal just for the health benefits. Chris Kresser’s site has some helpful, well-reasoned information, if you’re interested.

      • Miss Mustard Seed

        I think Paleo is a bit of a fad diet, but it sounds like a good one that basically steers you towards eating real, whole foods and that’s always a good thing. I decided to go vegetarian over a year ago, so I eat cheese, beans, lentils, legumes, etc. for the protein and, as I understand it, a lot of those things are excluded from the Paleo diet.

        Anyway, I think any diet that has you eating real food is a good, healthy thing! 🙂

    23. Anne Boykin

      Dear MMS, You look fantastic, girl! I’m sure your closet helper loves you as much as we all do so she’ll be a great guide for you to expand your wardrobe. Let us know how it goes, I’d love to hear about it. Hugs, Anne Boykin

    24. Colleen of Vintage Home

      Glad you are getting over your flu! Its going around and is exhausting!
      You look fabulous and I am excited to hear about your journey!
      Can’t wait to see what your stylist has in the closet for you!

    25. Andrea R.

      Hey Marian!
      You are looking fab and I’m totally jealous!!!! I too have been working out and only lost a total of 12 pounds (according to my scale, at least) and a bunch of inches. I have gotten lazy with my workouts in the last few weeks as my workload with school increased. Luckily, I haven’t gained any weight. In my weight loss journey, I have found I have an intolerance to foods I love, such as peanut butter, gluten, and dairy. My desire to eat meat is also decreasing, as well as processed foods, sugars. I would imagine the food intolerances may inhibit my weight loss…..but I’m determined to get back on track and lose another 20 pounds.

      Tried P90x and I don’t think I was quite ready for it the first time, so gave it up. Tried insanity, and my knees can’t handle the jumping side to side, otherwise it wasn’t bad. I missed lifting weights though, so I am back to Cathe Friedrich workouts. I will be looking to switch up my workouts soon, so will be hunting for another program to do for 2014! Best of luck to ya! Look forward to more updates on the weight loss journey!

    26. Trish @TheOldPostRoad

      Awesome on the weight loss!! I am jealous – as in “i am lazy.” I’ve got to do something, soon.

      Like the note by Paula at the top said – Thanks for being an inspiration!

      Trish

    27. Jessica @ Dear Emmeline

      Paula’s right! That piece will be perfect for staging knobs and such. I could see it in Christmas decor too on account of the tree/snowflake shape!

    28. Lori

      Huge congratulations on your weight loss goal!! That is so fabulous. Please count me in on the accountability thing. I am a single mom with two very active teenagers, but that is no excuse for not managing my time to do my exercises my physical therapist gave me to strengthen my core and get on my elliptical. Us girls have to stick together!! How does it start?

    29. kipper

      Marian you look great! How about updating the photo on the blog? It looks like it was taken before you lost the weight. Keep on reaching for the goal-you can do it!

    30. Miss Mustard Seed

      Yep, I’m having updated pictures taken on Wednesday! 🙂

    31. Michelle | Birds of Berwick

      Congrats on the weight loss and you look fantastic! I’m on my second first week of Insanity (did one week, life took over, so started again) and this time I am not letting life get in the way. I can see how if you’re constantly watching the TV with Shaun T, you can make yourself crazy trying to keep up. My TV is lower than eye level in my basement so I end up staring at some point above it and concentrate on my form over speed and pushing myself to do all I can without injury. Once you are working so hard it’s easy to pass up the foods that aren’t good for you! Why put in all the work if you’re just going to ruin it with what you put in your mouth?? Keep up the great work! Routing for you and always happy to have a cheerleader too! I’ve got quite a bit of weight to lose and a long journey to be on, but i finally feel committed… there’s a difference in my mindset that I think is going to stick! I’m 35 in 5 months, so would love to lose 2 sizes by then!

    32. Kym Morello

      When you feel great it is a reminder to eat healthy and exercise. The best change I have felt was giving up Wheat and Gluten. My joints and stiffness feel 100% better …and I lost 10lbs! Two thoughts that might be helpful… Nom Nom Paleo has an app, newsletter and I think she has a cookbook now as well, that has easy, fun and has flavorful recipes of whole foods. Secondly…an Anusara yoga class in your area or online at Grokker.com. I have a hard time exercising at home but when traveling I find this helpful. I really like Samantha S. Browns class because she offers all levels.
      Keep up the good work. …It takes a village!!

    33. Kaye

      Marion, you look fabulous!!!! Love the picture of you at Chapel Market; where did you get those boots?

      Thanks for continuing to inspire!

      Kaye

    34. Gwen, The Makerista

      I cut most gluten and a lot of sugar out of my diet and have lost about 10 pounds. I didn’t mean to loose the weight, for me it was more about wanting to gain energy, and I no longer feel sluggish around 2pm every day.

      I can’t tell you how better my digestion and stomach has been too! I don’t believe in totally cutting things out, because i know that’s super hard to maintain, so I allow myself one gluten thing a day ( I usually choose cereal for breakfast). I’ve been so amazed by the results!

      Thanks for sharing this side with us.

    35. Erin

      You know I am a fan of yours, I will cheer you on because I know you can do it, and you help me to believe I can do it too. I have had the same thought about the lack of wardrobe change too, just wait…but agree that I am not going to do myself favors by waiting. Start with feeling better now and feeling better later with a few updates/changes in clothing. By the way, you look great and are doing a terrific job!

    36. Jennifer

      You look fabulous. Weight loss is a life long journey for me~some days I’m blazing down the highway and some days I’m lost on a gravel road!! I don’t know about London Hospital (will have to check that out) but I am loving The Paradise~Jennifer

    37. Beth Tebaldi

      Have you ANY IDEA HOW SLIM YOU LOOK?! Go back about a year, look at your beautiful face! I always loved your beauty… I like natural beauty. No frilly crap or tons of make up! If one is pretty in sweats and t-shirts… That’s beauty! But there is so more to say about beauty; beauty is the ” personality”! That’s why you and others are so beautiful!
      Love you girl!

    38. Paula-Windmill Farm

      Great job Marion-inspirational!!! The gift from Paula just made me smile. I worked in the court system for over 27 years and every desk had singles/doubles/triple tierd stamp holders. We had judge’s signatures for forms; paid stamps; filed stamps; court seal stamps. We had a storeroom full of these holders over the years. Guess what was old is new again, had not thought about how useful they could be today!!! And industrial looking. Thank you for sharing your health and weight loss journey.-Paula-Northern California

    39. Carrie -Curate by Carrie Corson

      Love the special gift. So sweet. Okay, weight has been an issue I have been tackling my entire life. Sometimes I manage & fair better than others but it is a constant never ending battle. At 35 I have had a spinal fusion on my back some of which my have been hereditary & I recently found out I have Type iI Diabetes. Not good! I began a weight loss journey in the beginning of 2013. I was working out 4-5 times per week. I lost 30 pounds. Well, like always it is so hard to stick with it. When we moved into our new home this Summer I was preoccupied & took most of the Summer off. I am desperately trying to regain the mental strength to get back at it. So any opportunity to be motivated & maybe help someone else I’m game! Best of luck on your journey! Look forward to reading more:)

    40. LABrown

      Dear MMS:

      1. You look amazing.
      2. I would love to be an accountability buddy.
      3. If you are a reader, Kimberly Snyder’s books (and the FaceBook group page) and “Wheat Belly” have been really helpful to me. I have lost 20 pounds since September by cutting out dairy, sugar, processed foods, and wheat. Yes, it required completely re-thinking and re-learning how to eat for me and was initially a little time-consuming. I grew up on a farm and am a native Midwesterner! But you gather momentum because you feel drastically better in a very short time, particularly if you experience joint pain.
      4. Love your blog, your work, and your creativity. You are remarkably productive and inspiring to us all.

    41. Kathryn

      ha….you walk with trekking poles (or in this pic one pole). I walk with those also. Keeps me from falling down. Good to take time to care for self. Otherwise you may pay later in life. and that’s no bueno

    42. Karen

      4 pant sizes!!! That is so awesome. So good for you, so sorry about the back and early arthritis! Getting strong and carrying less weight will over rule those other annoying ailments. You look gorgeous, you have always looked beautiful, but now you can just see more of what is unique and beautiful about you. More importantly, you are really putting a focus on your health. Have a very fun Halloween with your family. Thank you for sharing all your wonderful creativity here.

    43. JaneEllen

      Talk about a loaded subject, weight and losing or gaining it is a hot one.
      No body ever said losing weight was easy or always fun, (if ever). I’m another person that has to watch it all the time. If I’d stop eating jujufish and fruit slices that would really help. For some reason I’ve zeroed in on them to crave.
      I was born with my thyroid not working at all, was 6 wks. old when pediatrician figured out what problem was. I was ok with my weight until I got married, started having kids. I had 3 kids in 4 yrs. so that was a big struggle. I’ve been on thyroid all my life and always will be. Had to have a thyroidectomy when I was 23 and 2 months pregnant for 3rd. child. I had a goiter.
      You look so great, I remember the first time I saw you on Nate Berkus show. That was day I found out about blogs and it got me started looking for them. I started with yours and before I knew it I’d subscribed to a few others.
      You look so great, your older photos can show you how far you’ve come. For some reason we seem to have to get to a certain point then we start to do something about our weight.
      When we moved here from KY I was the heaviest I’d ever been. I’ve probably lost and gained at least 5 people in my life, lol.
      I lost weight 2 summers ago without even realizing I was and have kept most of it off. I seem to have 5 lbs. that likes to come and go. Course that might be when I stay off the jujufish and fruit slices. We were cleaning out our shed, yuk but great way to lose. It was hot and I was running up and down little hill with items all the time in the heat, drinking gallons of water and sun tea.
      Keep up the good work, any of us that have had weight problems know just how hard it is. And the older you get the harder it is so getting into healthy eating habits now and exercising helps for when you get to be my age, (73). I don’t mind saying how old I am, I’ve had a busy great life. Have 4 kids, 6 grand kids and good friends I’ve had since I was younger than you. Exercising like walking is helpful to arthritis in your back. I have deteriorating disc disease, collapsed vertebrae, bulging disks in back and neck. Have had both knees replaced, a bum hip that will be replaced soon also. The more active you stay dealing with all that is easier. Not without pain but easier. Happy weekend Marian.

    44. Vicki

      You`ve always looked gawjuss Marian but it`s how you feel that`s important so kudos to you!

    45. Tammy

      I too have been on a weight loss journey. I wanted to lose 25-30 lbs and be done! 11 years ago I lost 140lbs AND I did it with old fashion diet and exercise. I had gained about 25 lbs of it back over the last 10 years so it was time to get serious. So, I’m doing the Focus T25 workouts…they are by the same guy that does Insanity but only 25 mins long.
      I’m 25 lbs down…yes, a size 8 for the first time in my life!

      The things that I feel made this weight loss successful for me was:
      1) I added Shakeology as my breakfast replacement. It taste good AND it’s good dense nutrition.Kept me full…etc.
      2) I was religious about using “My Fitness Pal” app on my iphone. It kept me accountable for everything I ate.
      2) I cut out all white flour, potatos, sugar, high fructose corn syrup, etc.
      3) I totally gave up diet drinks.
      I started on June 10th and lost the weight by the end of September.
      I’m still working on that last 5 or so lbs. Congratulations on your success! You look smashing!

    46. Anne

      That was a lovely gift! Working out is important to me.Unfortunately the past couple of weeks I have not done a thing,I am getting over a bad sinus infection.But once I am done I am getting back into it.The older you get I am 47 the harder it is to stay in shape.My husband and I do it together so we cheer each other on!I also need to expand on our diet.We get into a rut and eat the same things over and over again.Oh sugar is a hard one for me.I would love to give it up.I am not ready to just yet.I just started juicing and for me it made a huge difference in energy for me.It is the first thing I have every morning.
      BTW love your Redskins hoodie!

    47. Patty Connelly

      Congrats on the weight loss, and for sticking with the exercise. I have been doing weight watchers for 1 year now and have lost 30 lbs, but it would probably be more if I was more consistent with the exercise. My goal is to stick with WW for a total of 2 years in order to make some (hopefully) permanent changes. It is so easy to slip back into those old comfy habits. I have been doing plank exercises to strengthen my core. My back can be a little grouchy too, as I am a dental hygienist and lean all day. I love your post every day and my husband thought I was a little nuts when i had him pick up a dresser from the roadside and then drive to TAsa an hour away to get the paint! It has been fun but I cant say that mine look as beautiful as yours. I keep telling myself ” you will hate it before you love it”, as you say! Thanks for the inspiration and feel better.

    48. ccr

      Amazing how much diet and weight generate discussion. I want to go on a sugar and wheat fast to see how I feel. I need companionship to do this!!! Who is on?!

    49. Christy

      Two friends and I recently went to a retreat together and we talked about our need to lose weight. The next day one friend put up her birthday money ($200) and said the first to lose 20 lbs gets it! Needless to say, we are ALL IN. I was not even serious about starting a new plan while talking at the retreat. I know how hard it is. But my friend’s motivation and encouragement pushed me to into gear overnight.

    50. Pamela @ Flower Patch Farmhouse

      Take it easy getting over that bug. I had one three weeks ago, it had me down for a week then I felt better and jumped back into my routine and wham!… I relapsed something fierce, which knocked me flat for another week. I rarely get sick so it took me by surprise. I too found it hard to sit and recover but trust me, it is better than relapsing!
      My husband was put on a sugar free (including most fruit) and gluten free diet for a month by his Dr. and to encourage him I went on it with him. We ate what we wanted but just removing those two items had us both losing our muffin top flab and or stomachs flattened noticeably and that is while I was laid up so no exercise was done. You might be surprised at the effect of limiting sugar and wheat so go for it. Great job on your efforts to get healthier. What I love about it all is the extra energy I have.

    51. Linda Leyble

      Hi Marian…so jealous of your weight loss! I think that you are looking too thin though. So be careful…sometimes you can go overboard when you don’t have to.

      I have a wonderful husband…who cooks everything – so I don’t have to. This is a recent thing (because he’s retired now – and I am still working). So, I love to come home to cooked meals and he makes me breakfast every morning. Trouble is – he can eat anything. He. Is just naturally thin. I have gained weight since he retired – because he’s the chef! I have now learned to eat 1/3 of what he prepares for me. His metabolism can handle so much more than my can. A lot of women I know are jealous if what I have – but the weight gain that has accompanied it…I would rather be back cooking all the meals. Mine were healthier versions!

      I have to find a way to tell him I need to prepare more of the meals – if only to save my waistline! Or, I have to get him a healthier cookbook! We do go on long walks about 4 times a week…but he is the one who stays steady…not me!

      Glad for your continued weight loss and healthy lifestyle. Will you stay a vegetarian? I was a vegetarian for about 15 years. I was a lot thinner during that time!

      Linda

    52. Sheila Moore

      Hi Marian…I too am on a weight loss journey of my own…it’s a tough road but we need to keep on keepin’ on…good job on your part. Also I knew I liked you for more than your MMSMP…you’re a Redskin fan….HTTR…how did that come about may I ask?

    53. Carol

      I to have been on a weight loss journey to with you and have lost so much that I can not even wear my skinny clothes that I saved. I hate shopping so just wear things hanging on me with a belt. Wish someone would come and help me, you will love that let me know what she says! I know what you mean about keep on keeping on, I am right there. I have no more weight to loose just tone up to. I have joined a gym and only do the classes and they are really good so I am toning up and meeting new people they are all older women. But now it is rainy and cold and I just want to stay home in the house but this morning you have motivated me so out the door I go! Now get up and pop in that tape you can do anything for 30 minutes and who knows once you get started you may even keep on for an hour. We don’t want to have to worry about thanksgiving and Christmas treats and if we are working out we won’t and I know I don’t want to go back to fat clothes in the spring! So get up!!!! If you just change the sugar and wheat you will probably start loosing again and that will be motivation to keep going. Don’t stop til you get where you want to be, even if people say oh you are to thin, you feel good about you. You live in that skin and have to look at it every day not them!!! You go girl! We will help each other over this hump!

    54. Ginni

      Hi Marian! I think you are doing so well! I purchased the Up Bands for our wedding anniversary after seeing your post on it earlier this year. (After 11 years, what else can you buy? 😉 We still use them. You mentioned kicking out wheat. I kicked it out of my foods along with dairy and gluten – and lost 15 pounds really fast. Wheat and dairy are in EVERYTHING. And therefore one ingests a very vegetable-fruit-protein-centered diet. I am excited to read your rededication today because that motivates me to step it up again. You look marvelous. Keep strong and carry on.

    55. Rhonda

      Isn’t it funny how the weight creeps up over the years? I find that I need to lose about 30 pounds; last year it was just 20! What happened??? haha! I admire your determination and dedication to your health goals! Omitting sugar and wheat will definitely impact your results. I actually think you look wonderful right now! I know what you mean about toning the pudge, so perhaps that should be your focus, rather than losing too much more weight. We want you to remain healthy, because we love you so much! Maybe I will get on the rebounder this morning, in honor of you. But it’s too late to undo the sugary cereal I had for breakfast! 🙂

    56. ann

      I used a stamp holder to hold taper candles;worked great when lighted

    57. Marlene

      Take time and rest – your body lets you know — And, you look great – so pretty and kind!!! I am trying to get motivated to loose 25 lbs. I just need a good start and some cheering too – So, feel better and keep pushing forward – You do look great!

    58. Teresa McKee

      Marian, congratulations on your weight loss, and congratulations on having discovered that truly successful weight loss lies in having developed a lifelong changed eating pattern. I have lost 41 pounds and am working toward another 30 pounds, but more than that I am working toward being as healthy as I can possibly be. Having been a breast cancer survivor as well as having dealt with a myriad of frightening health issues, I made the decision that if I wanted to live as long as possible and enjoy a wonderful quality of life, I would have to make some changes. I began by totally eliminating all soft drinks, diet or otherwise, and greatly reducing processed foods. I actually haven’t been counting calories but have relied on eating healthy (organic whenever possible) foods, not eating between meals, enjoying reasonable portions, and not eating after 6:00 p.m. I’ve had neck surgery & have 3 bulging lumbar discs (resulting from arthritis that began in my 20s) so exercise is limited to walking, but that’s doing the trick! Life is a blessing not to be taken for granted, as I know you’ve discovered! Keep up the good work in all you do and God bless!

    59. Marla-Deen

      Wow! You Rock! What an accomplishment you’ve made – and with the healthy changes you’ve made you are doing all the right things.
      Love hearing your update!

    60. Elizabeth L

      Well done on your journey! You look fabulous! I’m jumping back into my own journey, too. I need to get back into my exercise routine, its so hard when you have taken as much time as I have off! Hang in there! Give yourself some grace in the process 😉

    61. Susan

      Rock on Girlfriend!!!!! I was told some 7 years ago how great Pilates is for my back problems of 15 years . Unfortunately, I did not look into it. I had back fusion 6 years ago. The surgery was a success & I am so glad I did it. I did try Pilates finally, a couple weeks ago & I love it. As a woman in my mid 40’s , I can see this strengthening of my core is especially important as I age & continue to bend over to paint furniture & do various crafts. I can see that these exercises with the reformer can serve me for many years & it is something I am capable of doing. Keep up the good work !

    62. Ella

      You’re such an inspiration! This summer I had the dawning realization that next year I’ll be turning 40. After 4 kids (the last 3.5 years ago, oldest being nearly 17), I knew it was time to get back to taking care of me again. I want to feel strong & healthy again. It’s been so many years since I’ve had the kind of go all day energy I yearn for again. I started to come up with a plan to tackle my goal. While I know I need to lose a considerable amount of weight probably at least 50 lbs… I don’t have a specific number in mind to see on the scale…I just want to feel strong & good about how I look again. So that’s my goal to feel leaner, strong & feel good again.

      Wouldn’t you know it though, fate intervened & on the heels of one of the craziest busy summers I’ve ever had, found out we were expecting #5. Thought we were so DONE adding to our family’s headcount. So while some of my goals have been sidelined or at least slowed way down. I realized I could still work on a gradual return to health. What better an excuse to eat much healthier could I have? I had already told myself meat & dairy needed to go on a long hiatus. Of course that was helped along with unusual (for me) food aversions…nice prego side effect, lol. I’m gradually returning to a fitness routine, walking, hiking & stretching to start. My blood pressure has been gradually returning to it’s previously lower normal.

      Thank you for sharing your journey with us on your blog. I know your story & journey will help keep me inspired for many months to come. When I’m finally ready to tackle my own journey with more concentrated effort. I’m one of those earthy, creative types who wants to always honor what’s best for my new baby first, family second, mother nature third & myself last when it comes to time & energy. This time around I’ve given myself permission to move myself up the list considerably. Afterall, if mom doesn’t have enough energy, then everyone loses out in the long run. Keep up the great work, your body & family will thank you time & time again.

    63. Angie

      Nice job, well done! I have started P90X so many times but never finished it. I have tried Insanity too, but kept getting injured.

      Right now I am doing Shaun T.’s T25. I love it! But I also need extra motivation everyday. In fact, I still have to do my workout for today :/

      I went vegan for 6 weeks and lost 12 pounds. Too bad I couldn’t keep at it and keep it off.

      Keep up the great work! I love hearing your progress.

    64. Zoran@PersonalTrainer

      Well, congrats for this, really great! But keep in mind now that you should keep in the good shape… This should be your next objective. Best regards from Melbourne PT studio.

    65. Tami B.

      Marian, you have motivated me to get back on track with my workouts. For the last two years, I have been unable to exercise because I was in a terrible car accident and I’d just started nursing school. I found that I was either too exhausted or studying my butt off for an exam to workout. Now that I’ve graduated school, I am ready to get back into shape. Thank you, once again, for your transparency. You are a breath of fresh air and I love reading your blog. Off I go to order my P90X DVD! I can’t wait to start my new routine!

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