Heart Choices: Weigh-in Wednesday: Progress Report -->

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Weigh-in Wednesday: Progress Report




I've been working on getting back in shape.  For most of my adult life, I've been very active.  I got into the habit of regular exercise many years ago.  I had to practice what I preached after all.  I worked as a cardiovascular nurse specialist for 25 years and counseled patients on lifestyle changes after they experienced a heart attack or cardiac bypass surgery.  So being fit was a way of life for me.

However, circumstances changed drastically for me.  You see, I 'retired' from nursing for ten years.  At that time, I didn't need to work.  But life happens and my life as I knew it turned upside down. Talk about stress; oh my!

I began to feed my emotions with sweets and popcorn.  After moving to a different home, I found it harder to exercise.  I returned to work in a totally different field and had a longer commute.  I gained 20 pounds!

You may think that's nothing.  Maybe you have more weight to lose. All I can say is that I'm glad I didn't allow it to go on any longer.  I see many people my age who have surrendered to the fact that extra weight is just a part of getting older.  Well I'm not giving in.  I'm doing it and I'm determined!

Source
I'm happy to report that I've been consistent in exercising each morning on my treadmill for 40 minutes.  I do my hand weights every other day.  I try to use my mat and do stretching exercises and some Pilates.  My exercise has to be done first thing in the morning before I go to work.  And right now I have to be at work by 7 am.  I have to plan for this with everything ready to go without thinking.  My Kindle is ready so I get to read during my exercise time.  I had to laugh at this image I found on Pinterest.  I'm down another pound this week.  Woo hoo!


  • I like to be able to easily into my clothes
  • I like to have energy
  • I love that it's become easier to step onto that treadmill
  • I love the increased time for reading book on my kindle
But I have to say that my main motivation isn't to look like a skinny model.  I am very realistic.  I don't want what I eat and when I exercise to be such a focus in my life.  I do want being fit and healthy to simply be a part of my every day life.  I want to focus on where the Lord has called me to be and do.  I want to quit giving in to my emotions and flesh.

So how about you?  How are you doing?

If you'd like some help and motivation, I encourage you to link over to Kim's blog Making 40 Fantastic.  She also hosts a private Facebook group where we share with one another and have some much needed accountability.

Blessings and love,

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Debbie Petras
12 Comments
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12 comments:

  1. Good for you, Debbie! I'm there with you, except I've got 10 extra pounds. I'm trying to cut back on the sweets and carbs, but the thing that's really making a difference is Zumba!

    Good luck, Debbie. Keep up the good work!

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  2. I admire you for getting up early and KNOWING you need to workout in the morning. It's really the best way to ensure you get it in. Thanks so much for linking up!!! And for being such a great encourager.

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  3. I love your discipline - this is a great example for me to learn from, build strength and flexibility - thanks, Debbie!

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  4. This is so encouraging, Debbie. I continue to do my little 3-day-a-week workout even though I'd love to say I'm old enough to just quit if I want to. But I do want to stay healthy and active and that requires an investment of time and energy. Thanks, friend, for reminding me of reasons to keep going!

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  5. You are an inspiration, Debbie! I started exercising yesterday and feel better about myself already! It was the boost I needed. I like that little poster about exercising before your brain wakes up! Pretty funny. But I can't imagine getting up that early. This school year I was supposed to be to school by 7:15. I made it there a handful of times that early but always stayed late to make up time. School did not start until 7:50 so I was safe. I did lesson plans in the afternoon. I'm so glad I can sleep in now! I think God made me a nighttime person :)
    Blessings,
    Janis

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  6. Hi Debbie! Your graphic made me crack up...I love it!

    I am also trying to get into shape (when not knocking kettle bells down at the gym I go to!). I try to exercise 5 days a week, so I am very impressed with your daily treadmill date. As a 'retired nurse' (do we ever really retire?) it is easy to forget all that walking and worrying we did on the job, which actually helped in the calorie department. The treadmill is much healthier tho :)

    Peace in Christ,
    Ceil

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  7. Way to go Debbie! Yes, 20 pounds is a whole lot easier than 40, so you are so smart to not allow it to get out of hand.

    I retreat from food when I'm under stress and it's a good thing or I would have gained 50 pounds the past 5 years. :o)

    Happy rest of the week!

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  8. I can relate to you although I goes to the gym to work out.
    And I am feeling younger and better.
    But of course, seek God before everything else:)

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  9. Hi Debbie! I'm having a real hard time with this. I have settled into a 25 minute elliptical workout in the mornings (Mon-Fri) but I am having a real hard time giving up sugar and junk food, which I know I need to eliminate from my daily life. I turned 58 in April, and I have 30 lbs that need to come off but refuse to budge. I will check out this link and thank you!

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  10. WAY TO GO! I love the images you included in this post. Both are so true. I need to get up and get my exercise done in the MORNING. I'm hoping as my nutrition finally gets back on track I'll find exercising follows this week. :) Loved the post!

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  11. I admire your dedication. As hot as it is starting to get here, I am also trying to knock out my exercise in the morning. You are an inspiration. I always appreciate your support!!!

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I love to read your comments! I know you have something to share so join in the conversation. And thank you for taking the time.

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