Article: African American Women Changing Approach To Fitness

It’s an unfortunate reality – African-American women face greater health risks than women of other races.

They are more likely to develop diabetes, hypertension and heart disease, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. More than half of African-American women older than 20 are obese. Although they aren’t more likely to be diagnosed with breast cancer than women of other races, they are more likely to die from it.

Women like twins Kanani and Kalila Hines are determined to make a difference in their own lives. In the past year, they have focused on improving their health through a more active lifestyle. Both started running with other women and working with a personal trainer.
They have seen changes, including double-digit weight loss. In adopting a more active lifestyle, the women are eschewing the hair dryer and chemical products to embrace their natural curl pattern.

They are part of a growing number of African-American women who are changing their approach to personal care in an effort to improve their overall health. It’s more than just vanity. A study published last year in the Journal of the American Medical Association Dermatology found that about 40 percent of African-American women skip exercising because of hair issues.

“You have to understand individual patient barriers without judgment,” said Dr. Michelle Gourdine, a pediatrician and author of “Reclaiming Our Health: A Guide to African-American Wellness.” “To someone who has not stood in that person’s shoes, they can’t say that their concern about hair is silly.”

Although it can be worn in myriad styles, from short to long, curly, straight or braided, African-American hair is different from the hair of other ethnicities, particularly in how long it takes to grow, its texture and coarseness. The natural curl pattern tends to be tighter, and that can make it more difficult for the hair’s natural oils to go from the root to the ends.

As a result, many black women rely on visits to the hair salon and chemical relaxers to moisturize, relax and straighten their hair. It’s a time-consuming – and costly – endeavor.

All the movement, not to mention the sweat, can wreck a relaxed or pressed hairstyle. Frequent washing can dry out a woman’s hair, while the time she spends fixing her style after a workout can be twice as long as the actual exercise.

“It’s a process to put in oils and moisturizers,” said Tywanda Howie, co-founder of Delaware Naturalistas, a group of black women who have made the decision to wear their hair without chemicals. “If I’m washing my hair more frequently, the concern is the length of time it takes to do that process from beginning to end.”

In the past, natural hair wasn’t always as accepted as a professional look, but that perspective has changed. Howie said some women are opting for natural hairstyles because of their exercise routines, but others are worried about the chemicals.

“There was a need to assimilate to what we thought was beautiful,” said Howie, an organizer of a daylong expo on natural hair being held Saturday at the University of Delaware’s Clayton Hall. “It’s embracing who we are naturally and not feeling like you have to wear your hair straight. It’s a self-love and confidence thing.”

Kalila Hines talked with her hair dresser about options that would balance her active lifestyle and still keep her looking good. She opted for a straw set, in which hair is rolled on tiny straws that, once removed, leave the hair in corkscrew-like coils.

“As women, hair is so important to us,” said Kalila Hines, who has been relaxer-free for about eight years. “I had to make a decision that my health was more important to my hair.”

Fortunately for them, the Hines sisters have found plenty of support and encouragement. They joined Black Girls Run Delaware, which hosts meetups across the state to encourage African-American women to embrace fitness and health. The group draws exercise newbies and veterans alike.

It’s empowering to see other African-American women take such an active role in their health, said Kanani Hines, who along with her sister, is training for her first half-marathon in November.

“We’re definitely breaking down barriers and shattering some of the myths,” said Hines, who started her fitness journey in January. “People have said African-American women don’t work out because of their hair. I know 200 to 300 women who do in Delaware alone.”

http://www.delawareonline.com/article/20130924/HEALTH/309240019/?nclick_check=1

Thanks for reading!

Always,

Blaque

Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

I'm So Freakin Tired, Yo!

It's happening again...outside of a few walks on my 15 minute breaks during work hours, I haven't really been working out. And the longer I go without working out, the more lethargic I become. I mean really, this is what I had for lunch yesterday. A salad and a 5 Hour Energy Shot! Nice...NOT!

All I've wanted lately is sleep, sleep and more sleep. I can't seem to get enough. I can't focus at work because I'm so exhausted. When I get home at night I get Travis ready for bed and then I am right behind him. By 8:30 I'm in my PJs and ready to call it a night. It's a cycle that I've found myself in all too many times. I stop working out, and thus find myself with a lot less energy. Then before I know it, I've gained 10, 20, 30 plus pounds...not this time.

I joined Crunch Gym like I said I was going to do. And yesterday, even though I could barely keep my eyes open while I was at work, I went to the gym and hopped on the first available treadmill I could find. I did 4.27 miles in 62 minutes. Not bad, but I know I can do better.

But when I add those four miles with the two I did at work, I'm kinda proud of my activity level. I'm supposed to meet with a trainer tonight so I may or may not have time to get another hour in before having to head home. But I have to admit, I'm excited about being able to go to the gym, do a few classes, and push myself on the treadmill. I'd still much rather be outdoors, and I will still do that when the weather permits. But I'm motivated again to reach my goal. 135, here I come!

Thanks for reading! 

Always,

Blaque

Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

#ThrowbackThursday

First let me just say, that these photos were taken in July of 2011. It felt every bit of 200 degrees in Newport News Park that day. Travis, my mom and I looked like a bunch of refugees with all that sweat coming off of us and it didn’t help that I was around 240 pounds at the time. All that fat plus scorching heat does not a good photo make. My face looked so bloated and I looked about 10 years older than I do right now. The fact that I was dating someone at the time is proof that there is definitely someone for everyone. I need to make a note to send him a thank you card because I don’t think I could have felt or looked more unattractive than I did in the summer of 2011.  It would be 2 months later when I would have weight loss surgery. My life truly changed forever. I am so incredibly proud of how far I have come.

Yay me! LOL

I am thankful for better health and a happier me! I still have some body image issues to conquer, but that’s a head thing…my body has gotten physically healthier and stronger. For that alone, I am immensely grateful.

 

Here’s to Throwback Thursday and that fact that I am never going back!
 

Always,

Blaque

Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

I Can See Clearly Now The Rain Is Gone

Finally, after days and days of rain and chilly temps, the sun has come back out, the weather has warmed up, and I was able to take a break from work and get in a few short walks! 73 degrees and sunny...the warm weather is not gone yet! 

A beautiful summer-like day in Virginia

On my first 15 minute break I walked 1.12 miles and  I walked 1.01 on my second. That brings my grand total of miles for the month of October to 13.61. Cue the subtle sound of failure...WONK, WONK! 

I have a lot of walking to do if I want to get in 100 miles by the end of the month. Can I do it? I'm going to give it my best shot!

I've decided that it's time to join a gym. I'm not really motivated to work out at home like I had been doing a few months ago. If I join a gym, I can hop on a treadmill and walk/run or do a variety of other things regardless of the weather. So my first order of business once I get off work is to go to Crunch Gym and become their newest member. To be honest, I don't like gyms...I'd much rather be out in the fresh air with only myself, my thoughts, and nothing to distract me. But I don't want a repeat of what happened last winter. Gaining 30 pounds is absolutely not an option. And hey, maybe something new like a gym membership is just what I need to help me find my motivation. It's been missing in action lately, in fact, I thought I saw it on the side of a milk carton. This might be exactly what I need to help me get my groove back!

Wish me luck!

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

#ThrowbackThursday

These photos make me so sad. Wow. They were taken in 2007. It was my then, best friend’s wedding day and I was giving a speech at the reception. I remember thinking I looked so cute that day. At the time, that was one of my favorite dresses. I went to get my hair done that morning. And I took a little extra time doing my make-up. But now when I look at these pictures, all I see is someone who looks tired, unhealthy, and miserable. I can’t believe I wasted so much of my life abusing my body. And I was 5 years into being a vegetarian at that point...a PROUD vegetarian. I remember having this one male friend who took every opportunity to remind me that every other vegetarian he knew was skinny. I use to get so offended and so angry with him. But now, looking back at these pictures, I can see where he was coming from. No, I didn’t eat meat or seafood, but I was no vegetarian. I ate plenty of unhealthy, processed, animal bi-product filled foods. I loaded up on sweets, pasta, and white rice like it was my job. I was so uneducated in regards to true vegetarianism and honestly, I didn’t care. My reasons for being a vegetarian was out of compassion, not for health reasons…and that’s crystal clear from these photos.

Now, when I tell people that I am a vegan, I hope that I am doing other vegans proud. I know better now, and hopefully I am doing better…a little more every day.

 *Disclaimer* The jacket in the above photo is NOT real leather. Good girls FAKE it, baby!

Here’s to Throwback Thursday and the fact that I am never going back!

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Size 8 and Not Feeling So Great

There are some things one would assume a person knows about themselves. What their natural hair color is. How tall they are.  What size pants he or she wears.

But yesterday I decided to treat myself to a new outfit.  Out of habit, I pulled a size 12 and a size 10. I was pleasantly surprised when I tried on the pants and they were both too big! In a bit of disbelief, I went back to the rack and pulled a size 8. They fit perfectly! Yippee…I’m out of the double digits!

Then after clothes shopping, I stopped at a restaurant for some take out. I ran into an old high school acquaintance and Facebook friend. When she saw me she said something to the effect of:  “You’re always on Facebook talking about losing weight. Look at you! You are skinny!”

If only I could see what everyone else sees. If only I could look in the mirror and see a woman who wears a size 8.

My body image has been screwed up for so long, I can only half-heartedly celebrate the realization that I am no longer in the double digit pant sizes. I know I will never look like a Victoria's Secret fashion model or have a figure like Beyonce, but just once I want to be able to live in the moment and enjoy these little victories.

The sad truth is, I don’t think that I will ever look in the mirror and NOT see a fat girl.  Fat, not pretty, was what I was called most often as I was growing up. I don’t know what it feels like to look in the mirror and love, hell even accept, the person that I see.  

Can anyone suggest a good book on body image? (sigh)

But seriously, in addition to my goal of reaching 135 pounds, I also have a goal of fixing what’s wrong in my heart and in my head. I don’t know how I’m going to do that. How do I erase 42 years of anxiety and feeling insecure? No clue…but I know that in order for me to truly be happy, regardless of the number on the scale, I have to change my way of thinking. I have to free myself from this self-imposed obsession about my body. It’s gonna be tough and probably a little painful. But it has to be done. I have to start living!

*nervously bites nails*  Wish me luck on that!

In other news...my October Walking Challenge is progressing. I continue to have issues with the personal care aids and now Virginia's weather forecast consists of rain, rain, and more rain. So I haven't put in as many miles as I would have liked to at this point. But maybe I can make up for lost time once the rain stops.I really want to get 100 miles in. Will I do it? Stay tuned!

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Weight Loss Inspiration: Rev. Al Sharpton

Al Sharpton's 167-pound weight-loss inspiration? Matt Lauer

While the Rev. Al Sharpton’s influence in the social justice movement is still large, his body is not.

At his peak, Sharpton, 59, was 305 pounds, but he told Matt Lauer on TODAY Wednesday that he is all the way down to 138 pounds. He also cited a specific inspiration for his weight loss.

“I gave up meat, I started watching my diet, I work out,’’ Sharpton said. “I get up every morning and watch you Matt, and I say, ‘I want to look like that.’’’

“I bet there’s other motivation,’’ Lauer joked.

Sharpton began his weight loss in 2009, exercising regularly and cutting out meat from his diet. In 2001, he had shed 30 pounds during a hunger strike when he was imprisoned for protesting the U.S. government’s use of Vieques Island in Puerto Rico for bombing exercises. However, he wasn’t able to keep that weight off and realized he needed more exercise and a better diet to slim down. He became a vegan, which he said has contributed to him trimming down to less than half the size he once was.

In his new book, “The Rejected Stone,’’ Sharpton writes about his physical transformation and also the lessons he has learned during his time as an activist and civil rights leader involved in some of America’s most high-profile cases.

One of those cases was Tawana Brawley, an African-American teenager who falsely accused six white men of having raped her in 1987. Sharpton supported Brawley and had harsh words in public for the prosecutor in the case. In 1988, a grand jury found that Brawley was not the victim of rape or any sexual assault and may have fabricated her claims.

“This book is not about cases, this book is about lessons, and I did talk about the lessons of Brawley,’’ Sharpton said. “What I dealt with is that even though I believed her and represented what I believed, you still don’t make it personal. I may believe you’re wrong, but to get into name-calling and to get into denigrating you I think is something that you’ve got to say, ‘Wait a minute, that is not going to help the cause.’’’

Sharpton, host of MSNBC's "PoliticsNation," said he knows he is a polarizing figure and his involvement in any case can bring strong reactions from both sides, but sometimes that is necessary.

“I think some double-edged swords are needed because you’re going to be able to draw the kind of attention you need because you need someone that can go in that will make people say, ‘We need to pay attention to that,’’’ Sharpton said. “If someone doesn’t go in, the victim will not be heard at all.”

Sharpton also discusses his childhood in his new book, describing how he was a bit of an outcast because of his precociousness as a Pentecostal preacher.


“I started preaching when I was 4 (years old),’’ he told Lauer. “It was odd for my friends to have their parents come hear me preach on Sunday, and it was a little rough getting girlfriends, too.”

http://www.today.com/news/al-sharptons-167-pound-weight-loss-inspiration-matt-lauer-8C11363460

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Article: Controversial new study says black women should focus on weight maintenance

A new study that's already producing controversy focuses on African American women who are overweight or moderately obese. The researchers say that this group should focus on weight maintenance rather than attempting to lose weight, reported the Los Angeles Times on August 26. The study specifically singled out African American women because, according to the L.A. Times, "African American women are far less likely than men or women of other races or ethnicities to respond to weight-loss programs with meaningful weight loss" even if they are obese. And the concern is that obesity, which boosts the risk of Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in African American women, is high in that group.
Background: Released August 26, the study indicated that African American women typically remained at their current weight or even lost a few pounds when assigned to a program focusing on maintenance. In contrast, a comparison group of African American women who received wellness newsletters gained an average of a pound after a year. However, the study opens the door for controversy based on the fact that it singled out African American women. In contrast to the Los Angeles Times article, for example, which highlighted race in its headline "For black women, weight maintenance may be the best goal," the Grio author Dr. Tyeese Gaines focused on the general results, with an August 26 headline: "Focusing on weight loss may not be effective." And although he reported the same results, he emphasized a quote from an expert that extrapolated from the study to encompass all individuals with weight problems.
"This study demonstrates that weight maintenance is easier to achieve than weight loss,” says Dr. Fatima Cody Stanford, an obesity medicine and nutrition fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School. “However, this is true in persons of all ethnic backgrounds, not just those of African descent.” But the lead author of the study is focusing on black women.
"Historically, weight loss programs are not as effective among black women compared to white women and men," says Gary Bennett, lead author of the study and director of obesity prevention at Duke University. “There’s not the same social pressure for black women to lose weight in the black community,” he explains. “If 80 percent of the black female population is overweight, then that’s normal. So, being normal weight is abnormal.”
Because of those perceptions, standard weight loss tactics do not work well among black women, says Bennett. Therefore, his team used messages such as “getting Michelle Obama arms" rather than talking about the connection between health and weight loss.
Constance Brown-Riggs, registered dietitian and national spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, takes a different stance, pointing to physicians as the culprits in terms of conveying the right message. “It validates the need for registered dietitians in facilitating behavior change strategies that can lead to weight loss or maintenance,” she explains. “Primary care doctors just don’t have the time or resources to adequately address the myriad of factors involved in moving an individual towards successful weight loss or maintenance.” Author of "The African American Guide To Living Well With Diabetes" and "Eating Soulfully and Healthfully with Diabetes: Includes Exchange List and Carbohydrate Counts for Traditional Foods from the American South and Caribbean," she added, “The ‘cookie cutter’ approach will not help individuals work through barriers such as purchasing and preparing healthier foods or incorporating physical activity into their day.”

http://www.examiner.com/article/controversial-new-study-says-black-women-should-focus-on-weight-maintenance

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Note to my Past

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Sunday Weigh-In 10/6



I got on the scale this morning and found that I had lost 7 pounds since last Sunday. I should have been ecstatic, encouraged, excited...something. But I was rather blasé about it. I've been hovering in the 140 to 150-something range for so long that I am slowly losing interest in this whole process. This is not good! In fact, it's down right dangerous. So I started going through some old photos...trying to remind myself of how bad I use to look and will surely look again if I'm not careful. 7 pounds is a big deal. I have to find the motivation to keep pushing myself until I reach my goal. I don't want to go back...God knows I don't. The holidays and winter months are fast approaching. Losing interest now will make it too easy for me to relapse and go back to looking like my former unhealthy self. I have to keep reciting the following scripture from 2 Corinthians 5:17: Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.



The old me would have given up and accepted 150 pounds. But I have become new! I won't stop until I reach my goal of 135 pounds.

I can, I will, I must reach 135!

Previous Weight       Current Weight
157.6                        150.6

Goal Weight
135

Previous Bust            Current Bust
36 inches                  36 inches

Previous Waist         Current Waist
33 inches                  30 inches

Previous Hips           Current Hips
42 inches                  40 inches

Previous Forearm     Current Forearm
12 inches                  12 inches

Previous Wrist         Current Wrist
6 inches                    6 inches

Previous Thigh        Current Thigh
24 inches                 22 inches

Previous BMI       Current BMI
27.05                      25.85

Previous Body Fat %    Current Body Fat
42.12%                            40.68%


My goal for the upcoming week is to keep walking. The fact that I've started moving again has obviously helped. I plan on increasing the lengths of my walks and try to start jogging again.

Thanks for reading and have a better than blessed day!

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

The Tragedy at the Capital

This story has nothing to do with weight loss, exercise, or fitness. But when I saw the photo of the woman that was killed by police outside the Capitol building yesterday, it was really heart breaking.

What a beautiful smile and lovely face. I hope she finds the peace that she was struggling for in this life.

It’s ironic and maddening that Congress is fighting the President over his healthcare plan when there are so many people in need of primary and  mental health care. No one will ever know what Miriam Carey’s breaking point was or what happened to cause her to act in such an erratic way with her one year old daughter in the car with her. Stories are starting to come out about her mental health and possible post partum depression.  I guess this story affected me so much because like Ms. Carey, I too am a working single mother. I know what it’s like to feel alone, and overwhelmed, and stressed, and angry, and sad and hopeless. I’m sure many people in this country can relate to some or all of those feelings, too. The last thing Republicans should be doing right now is causing more anxiety to thousands of Americans by keeping this shutdown going for no other reason than they oppose “Obamacare”. My thoughts are prayers are with Ms. Carey’s family, especially her little girl who now has to grow up without a mother. My thoughts are also with the Secret Service member and the Capitol Police officer who were injured during yesterday’s events.

Now, for things of the trivial nature…

I registered for my first 5K today. Well, it wasn’t my first one actually. I did the Cerebral Palsy of Greater Hampton Roads 5K earlier this year, but it was a run/walk and trust me, I did more walking than running. In November I will be doing the ABC 5K for the Foodbank. I don’t have time to do as much giving back as I would like so this is a great opportunity for me to help the community especially with the holidays coming up.

Also, it’s my hope that this impending 5K will motivate me to get up off my butt and start jogging again. I’ve been on an all things active hiatus for the past few weeks. Although, on my day off yesterday I did manage to walk 3.13. 

If all goes well, I’ll be getting in at least as many miles today!

Thanks ever so much for reading.

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

#ThrowbackThursday

These photos were taken in February of this year. I have certainly lost some lbs. But looking at these photos reminds me of what I will soon look like if I don't get my act together.

Here's to Throwback Thursdays and the fact that I am never going back!

Always,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Article: Black Women Don't Work Out

 Black Women Don't Work Out

"You know I don't like to get up with the chickens," my mother said. That's her way of saying she hates waking up early and also her way of declining my invitation when I ask her to go walking with me at 8 a.m. on a Saturday morning.  But I'm determined to encourage my mom be more physically active.    I'm determined to make fitness a regular part of her life just as it is such an important part of mine.

As African American women, the odds are against us.  According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, four out of five black women are overweight and in 2010 the HHS reported that African-American women were 70 percent more likely to be obese than their white counterparts.  Furthermore, African American women are nearly 40 percent more likely to die of cardiovascular disease than white women, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention statistics published last year by the American Heart Association.  I refuse to let my mom be a statistic.

Enter Keecha Harris. Keecha is the leader of the Birmingham chapter of GirlTrek, a national nonprofit organization striving to inspire black women and girls to live healthy lives simply by walking. The national group launched two years ago and through social media campaigns has grown to include over 17,200 women who are logging their walks online.  Additionally, GirlTrek has over 154,000 Facebook fans and nearly 1500 followers on Twitter.

Keecha learned about GirlTrek last September through a friend who lives in Washington, D.C. In October of 2012 she decided to take on a challenge to walk for 30 minutes every day for 40 days. "Before I knew it, I was walking 26.2 miles [the distance of a marathon] weekly and far more than 30 minutes most days," Keecha said. "I have not missed in over 321 days." After she started walking regularly Keecha applied to be a GirlTrek city representative in Birmingham. "I applied to be a City Representative because I knew how tremendously good walking had been for me and wanted to share this experience with a city that I wanted to know better," said Keecha, an Atmore, Ala., native.  As president of a public health consulting firm, Keecha travels a lot for work. But she never lets her travels get in the way of her treks.  "Since October, I have trekked in airports, covered 15 to 20 miles on weekends in New York City, become very familiar with Eat Street in Minneapolis, hiked the Virgin Islands National Park in St John, done a second canopy walk at Kakum National Park in Ghana and explored Ensley's Tuxedo Junction by foot," Keecha shared.  And when she turned 40 in June, she and a cousin trekked 40 miles in four days in the Sonoran Desert. "It was great, hot fun," Keecha said.

GirlTrek Birmingham has about 600 women engaged in its online community via Facebook and hosts a number of walks throughout the week in neighborhoods all over the city and in nearby suburbs. On a recent hot August day my mother and I attended our first GirlTrek walk. This particular trek began at Homewood Central Park on a Thursday. The walk started at 6 p.m., thus there were no complaints about rising with roosters.  Before each walk begins Keecha asks the women gathered to close their eyes and meditate for a moment. This walk happened to take place the week of the 50th anniversary of the March on Washington and Keecha wanted us to think about the people who walked for miles and miles for the sake of their civil rights.  She then shared with us a GirlTrek mantra: "When black women walk, things change."  As the GirlTrek website declares, "Things changed when Harriet Tubman walked. Things changed when boycotters in Montgomery walked. When we walk, things WILL change."  After our moment of meditation, we set off, trekking through and around the park and then zigzagging our way through various Homewood neighborhoods.  We walked for over an hour at a rigorous pace. Sweat poured from my mother's brow and plunged from the tip of her nose. But she never stopped. She never asked to take a break.When our journey came to an end I wasn't sure if my mom had enjoyed the walk or not. I knew she was tired; I knew she'd gotten a good workout as evidenced by her soaked t-shirt and heavy breathing. But I hoped she'd had fun too.  Before leaving the park we all stretched and Keecha announced times and locations of upcoming walks. There was a trek set for that upcoming Sunday evening at Heardmont Park.  My mom turned to me and asked, "Can we go to that one too?"  Yes, when we walk things change.

Javacia Harris Bowser is an educator and freelance writer in Birmingham.  Javacia is the founder of See Jane Write, an organization for local women writers, and the founding editor of SeeJaneWriteMagazine.com.~ September 10, 2013

I'm Blaque and I'm Back!

For the last several days I’ve been suffering from the worst headaches and I have been super lethargic. And when I’m tired and in pain, the last thing I want to do is worry about my diet and exercise routine. Think about them? Yes. Worry about them? Not one bit.

Being a slug has been fun, but I feel my clothes getting tighter so it's definitely time for me to re-group. I haven’t really been feeling my workout DVDs. I stopped Ripped In 30 after a few days of Week 3. And The Firm: The 500 Calorie Workout I think I may have done only once or twice. I only have 4 dollars in my Workout Jar so monetary self-motivation obviously didn’t work at all. So I decided to adjust…which brings me to my October Challenge.

I love walking and jogging. Nothing makes me feel better than being out in the fresh air and MOVING! So I’ve made walking my focus for this month.

I am going to try and walk and/or jog 100 miles in 31 days. Now I’m already behind because I didn’t do anything yesterday. But so far today, I’ve walked 1.04 miles on one of my breaks. Only 99 more to go…let’s get it!

While I’ve been on inactive status, there have been a couple of things that have excited me.

The first is an app that I found in the Android Play Store called Is It Vegan? OMG…where has this app been all of my life? First of all it’s free which is always a good thing. But it allows you to scan the bar code of a product in order to find out if that product is Vegan, Vegetarian or neither. Awesome, totally awesome! 

There were things in my cabinet liked canned vegetables that I just assumed was vegan, but found that they had beef broth or was seasoned with pork. No bueno! I'm so glad I've found this app. Life as I know it just got easier.

I’ve also been re-watching this documentary I purchased a few years ago called Vegucated. It’s funny but every time I watch it, there always seem to be more information that I didn’t get the first time or things that I understand differently the more I watch. This documentary does an excellent job of explaining what exactly a Vegan is and what a Vegan is not. I personally get tired of people who claim to be a vegetarian or vegan, then follow with “but I eat fish” or “but I eat chicken”…last time I checked fish and chicken don’t grow on trees, but hey, what do I know? Maybe there is a fish tree somewhere in someone's back yard. *shrugs shoulders*

Anyway, Vegucated follows three people who attempt to go vegan for 6 weeks. They decide to go vegan mainly to lose weight or for health reasons. But throughout their journey they are exposed to the inhumane treatment of farm animals and learn more about the environmental reasons why people should choose this lifestyle. I dare anyone to watch this DVD and not re-evaluate their eating habits. If you don’t FEEL some kind of way after watching this documentary, I would advise you to check yourself for a heartbeat. It’s truly moving!

Side Note:  The fact that dog fighting is illegal in this country is the height of hypocrisy given the inhumane and frankly barbaric treatment of farm animals. 

That’s all for now. Yes, I had a relapse of sorts, but I’m happy to write that I’m slowly getting my mojo back.

Feeling better all the time,

Blaque
Beloved, I wish above all things that you may prosper and be in health, even as your soul prospers. ~ 3 John 1:2

Note to Self

Sunday Weigh-In 9/29

I haven't had an official weigh-in in a few weeks. I knew that I had gained a few pounds but I was more than shocked when I stepped on the scale this morning. I've gained 13 pounds in 2 weeks...crazy...just crazy! I have been bouncing from the 150s to the 140s and back for months. Every time I fight to lose 5 or 10 pounds, I go right back to my body's "Happy Weight" if I go too long without working out or being strict with my diet. The 155 to 157 range is where I first plateaued and where my body seems to normalize. But this is way too high for me. My goal is still 135. I can live with 140...but anything over 145 is still in the danger zone. I have to keep pushing!

Previous Weight       Current Weight
143.8                         157.6

Goal Weight
135

Previous Bust            Current Bust
36 inches                  36 inches

Previous Waist         Current Waist
30 inches                 33 inches

Previous Hips           Current Hips
40 inches                 42 inches

Previous Forearm     Current Forearm
12 inches                12 inches

Previous Wrist         Current Wrist
6 inches                   6 inches

Previous Thigh        Current Thigh
22 1/2 inches           24 inches

Previous BMI       Current BMI
24.68                      27.05

Previous Body Fat %    Current Body Fat
39.28%                            42.12%


It's been a long stressful week and I am going to try to find some motivation for the week that's upcoming. It's just so frustrating because I feel as though I eat healthier than most, and I workout more than most other people I know. I mean, really, today is Sunday and at millions of tables across America there will be fried chicken and ribs, and vegetables seasoned with pork, and macaroni and cheese, and pies, and bread and butter. Tonight, folks will be watching their favorite team play football while eating themselves into a food coma off of buffalo wings, pizza and beer. How am I ever going to maintain my weight once I get to 135 if what I'm eating now causes me to gain obscene amounts of weight in a matter of days? I just don't understand it.

But I can't worry about that now I guess. It is what it is. Tonight, I am going to bed early so that I can hibernate, heal, and try to find a little hope!

If God says so, I'll be back at it tomorrow! Have a blessed evening.

Always,

Blaque

As Goes My Life, So Goes My Diet

Yesterday started off pretty good. I took with me to work some fruit, a home made salad, and some plantains fried in Smart Balance and sprinkled with sea salt and garlic powder. So yummy!

 

 

 

 

 

 


I was drinking lots of water, I took walks on my 15 minute breaks, and I was preparing to go for a run before heading home when I got another call from my mother. As soon as I saw her number pop up on the caller ID, I just knew that no one had shown up to take care of Travis. But I was wrong. The agency sent someone out. It was a woman who was 5 months pregnant and couldn't do any lifting.


Really?


Once again I had to leave work, come home, and take care of Travis myself. Don't get me wrong, I love taking care of my son. But when I need the help of professionals so that I can go to work and earn a living, I expect professionalism. Instead, I'm constantly dealing with a hot mess of a home health agency that hires a bunch of worthless individuals who can't do the job for which they were hired.


Needless to say, I binged yesterday. Big time binged. There was a veggie burger and chips involved and eating it made me feel GOOD! Addiction is a mutha, but don't cry for me. I'll regroup.


Dealing with these Home Health Agencies is stressful. And if you've never had to hire a caregiver for a loved one, consider yourself blessed! Having to watch aid after aid come into my home for the sole purpose of cashing a pay check as opposed to being passionate about their profession is frustrating. It's insulting when they sit there watching TV instead of giving my son their undivided attention. I take it personally when they don't go gaga over him and aren't willing to do whatever it takes to see that his needs are met. I mean really, how could you not fall madly in love with this face?

 

Yesterday I was so stressed, and angry, and insulted, and frustrated. Trying to bottle all of that up only gave more power to my emotions. So, I ate. I'm human, don't judge.


I haven't had a real workout in days. I started the week off strong...like a champion. I'm ending it rather defeated. But the word of the day is REGROUP and regroup I will.

Hopefully I will get another permanent person soon and my life will normalize again. Until then, I will keep praying that my manager doesn't fire me and that I don't go too far off track with my diet and exercise! Regardless of what happens, I won't give up!





Thanks for reading all. I'd love to read any comments you may have about how you regrouped stressful situations.






Have a better than blessed day!


Always,




Blaque

#ThrowbackThursday

These pictures were taken in 1998 when I was 27 years old. I can’t believe how unhealthy I looked. A woman’s 20’s are supposed to be the hottest years of her life. But I was extremely over weight and I looked so unhappy!

Here’s to Throwback Thursdays and the fact that I am never going back!

Always,

Blaque

I Should Have Never Gotten Out Of Bed!

Yesterday was just one of those days. Let's take it from the top, shall we?

6:30 am

When I took Travis to his school bus, his bus driver looked at me and said “Good morning Skinny Minnie!”…I literally had to stop myself from screaming! "Breathe!" I told myself. I realize that she was only trying to be nice and perhaps give me a compliment...but I AM NOT SKINNY! Actually, I got on the scale yesterday and found that I have gained weight. This fluctuating body of mine...SMH. I would much rather a person tell me that I am doing a good job or ask me what my fitness regimen is...anything except make specific and nonsensical comments about my body. I've written it before and I will write it again; words like "skinny" and "wasting away to nothing" annoy me. They feel invasive and also feel like smoke being blown up my ass! I'm not skinny! I never will be and I don't want to be. Yes, I've lost weight, a lot of it. But people need to stop being ridiculous with their non-compliments! Think before you speak, geesh!

 

11:30 am

I tried to do a run during my lunch break...emphasis on the word "tried". Eight minutes into it I felt my armband slipping so I attempted to tighten it. Well, instead, I ripped it and my cell phone fell to the ground. Now, my armband is unusable, my cell phone is cracked, and I was absolutely disgusted!I turned around and walked back to my job, kicking rocks the entire way! Aargh!!!

 

3:00 pm

From 2pm to 3pm I had a meeting in another building on campus. When I returned to my desk I saw that I had 9 missed calls and a ton of voice mails...never a good sign. The very first voice mail was a frantic message from my mother...no one showed up to get Travis off the school bus. What a surprise...no nurse...AGAIN! I was livid! So I ran to my car like a wild banshee because my 78 year old mother can't do anything with my 90 pound child. Not lift him out of his wheelchair, not take off his school clothes, not change his diaper...NOTHING. Thank goodness I didn't get pulled over by the police. I was doing every bit of 65 in a 45 the entire way home. If this keeps up, I am going to have to change Home Health Agencies, not that the next will be any better. These young ladies that are hired as personal care aids clearly do not want to work. Seriously, I need to write my Congressman. Caring for the elderly and disabled is one of the most important jobs a person can have. Paying some kid with no college degree minimum wage to come into a person's home unsupervised is a recipe for disaster. Trust me, I know. The stories I could tell...

 

In other news...my second day without any processed food went OK for most of the day. I brought with me to work: a pear, bananas, the grapes I didn't eat the day before, black beans with corn, jalapeno and rocotillo chile peppers (talk about yummy), and a salad I picked up from Trader Joe's. I had every intention of doing the right thing.

I polished off the black beans and corn before 9am. Weird breakfast choice, huh? I couldn't help it though. It smelled so good and tasted even better. I sauteed the peppers in a little olive oil. Then I added one can of black beans and one can of corn. I sprinkled a little south western seasoning over it and also added a spoonful of Smart Balance. It was absolutely delicious.

I snacked on a few grapes and blueberries then had the salad before going out for my ill fated run.

All bets were off however once the craziness started to ensue. After I got home, I got Travis settled then called the agency to find out what the heck was going on. Bottom line: they are sending out yet another aid tomorrow! At that point, I was on the highest level of pisstivity...off the charts pissed actually. So I did something that I now regret...I ordered a pizza. That's right, a non-vegan, uber fattening pizza! I really should not have done that! Lucky for me a friend stopped by and I was able to unload half off it on him.

Tomorrow, as I always say is another day. If God says so, I'll have another chance to do better!

I hope your day went better than mine. Tell me about it. Good, bad or ugly, I'm all ears...well, eyes!

Always,

Blaque

Day 1 Of My Eating Clean Challenge

I couldn't think of a better way to kick off my Eating Clean Challenge than with a Green Smoothie. I made this one with spinach, bananas, strawberries and mangos.

I also took some of my favorite "clean" things with me to work. A medley of grapes with blueberries, marinated cucumbers and red onions, and string beans with potatoes.

I sipped on the smoothie for most of the morning. Around 10am I ate the cucumbers and by 10:30 I was freaking starving...or at least I thought I was. I couldn't decide if I was actually hungry or if my brain just WANTED something more substantial. Thankfully I was on a conference call until noon and couldn't surrender to my desire for more food. After I was finished with my call, I had my string beans for lunch. But then, things went a little left...

I received a call from my mother. Neither she nor the nurse that was filling in yesterday could get Travis out of his wheelchair *scratches head* . So I had to leave work to go see what was going wrong. The nurse that was filling in yesterday was completely worthless. I asked if she could get Travis in bed, she didn't think that she could. Travis had a b.m. and she didn't know how to clean him up. Then everytime I checked on them she had her back turned to him and was watching TV. Oh boy...

I ended up eating 3 pieces of Morningstar Farms buffalo wings and some left over string beans. It was definately a stress reaction to the "nurse"...and I use that term loosely...that was sent to care for Travis. 

But I regrouped. Once I made sure Travis was OK, I went to the fountain at beautiful City Center and ran/walked 3 miles. 

I grabbed a salad from Salad Creations on the way home. Man, how I love their Spicy Veggie salad!

I came home, saw that the nurse was still glued to the TV screen, and asked her to leave. I was mentally and physically drained and wasn't going to deal with her NOT taking care of Travis any longer. 

By 7:30 pm, Travis and I were both bathed, fed, and in bed. I took the medicine my doctor gave me for insomnia and was out like a light by 8 o'clock. I really needed a good sleep and I got one. If I took my medicine more often, I wouldn't be up at night snacking because it really knocks me out.

All in all, my first day of eating clean went pretty well. One day down...four more to go!

Thanks for reading and member, your health is a great blessing from God. May you have abundant energy, vitality and well-being all the days of your life! 

Always, 

Blaque