Archive for Success is mine this time!
Mary Ann breaks a Barrier!
Posted by: | CommentsHello my friends! Hope this finds all of you thinner than the last time I wrote. Summer is almost over and Fall is upon us. This time of year makes me sad and depressed for a little while because my pool and sunbathing days are just about gone. I think, “Did I do enough to enjoy summer as much as I could?” Then I get over it and look forward to my next favorite season…Fall! I love the cooler weather, and the sights and smells of Fall. We picked apples this weekend, Honey Crisp, my favorite. Mark (my saboteur) will surely make apple pie and apple crisp….aargh! Such temptations!
I have good news to report. I finally have broken the 150 lb. barrier! I saw 149 for 2 days in a row, got too excited, celebrated with a few extra snacks and messed up the weight for day 3. Mark got a pumpkin roll; you know the one with the cream cheese? Well I was weak…‘nuff said! If you remember, I don’t count it as real until I weigh the same for 3 days in a row. So it’s back to basics. I am so close to my goal and I swear I’ll get thereby the time I leave for my cruise in October. It’s a constant battle to continually re-train myself not to celebrate with food. I must say though, it sure feels good to be in a solid size 10. Woo Hoo!! I even squeezed into a size 8 just to see if I could. (Not quite yet, itwasn’t pretty!)
I have been a student of Weight Loss University since the end of January, it seems such a long time but I have learned so much to make this a lifestyle change. I get a little cocky once in awhile and think I can eat like I used to, (there’s that wiggle-room-wrong thinking again). So to keep on track I am reviewing my chapters, my goals, watching Dr. Clark’s webinars, and making another appointment to talk to Dawn.
As I speak of losses, on this day 10 years ago I pause and remember the losses from theWorld Trade Center and hope you do the same, and I hope all of you fared well during the hurricane. Till next time….Mary Ann
Dog Days of Summer
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Whew! It sure is hot outside! These are what I call the ‘dog days of summer’ and they are the hottest part of the year here in Virginia. No one really wants to go outside (especially me) and exercising is harder in the hot weather. At least that’s my excuse. It’s a pretty good one too!
As I enter the second month of the Weight Management University program I find myself dreaming of fall fashions (and cooler weather). My weight continues to drop and I find that some things in my closet fit better than they ever have, prompting me to consider a shopping trip for the upcoming season. It is exciting to see the changes that are happening to me physically and as an added bonus even my mental attitude is improving. This might be because I am not so sedentary and tired anymore. The WMU program has eased me into all new eating habits and now after 7 weeks I automatically reach for the ‘right’ kinds of foods without even thinking about it. It has been a fairly smooth transition into healthier habits although I did have a bump in the road a couple of weeks back.
Although I was following the program parameters I hit a plateau where the scale refused to move for over 2 weeks. I must admit I was a little frustrated. Then came Dawn to the rescue! She helped me understand the causes behind plateaus and the variety of options that can help overcome them. Instead of trying just one, I applied multiple techniques and in just a couple of days the numbers on the scale starting dropping again. Yay!
I think it is absolutely wonderful that a place like the Center for Weight Loss Success exists, because in the past I would have simply thrown in the towel when my weight loss stopped and gone back to my old ways. It means everything that someone is standing by you to answer important questions, to cheer you on, and to simply listen. That is the surely the difference between failure and success.
So on to my next goal, which is to exercise more often. I look forward to walks in the park in the crisp autumn air but for now it’s the air conditioned indoor gym for me, doggone it!
Anna joins WMU
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Anna begins her journey.
My name is Anna Nowak and I am a new member of the CFWLS Weight Management University program. I have spent the last few months watching the success stories unfolding at Dr. Clark’s Center and during that time I began to believe that I could be successful at weight loss too.
The day I signed up I had no idea what my weight or BMI was because I have spent years avoiding the scale and the truth is that I am very overweight. It has been easy to ignore weight gain when I can find pants with elastic waist bands and large shirts that cover my belly. However, it has been much harder to ignore the constant fatigue and back pain that accompanies too much weight and too little physical activity. It is way past time for a change!
So, the first day on the scale was a real eye opener. The scale read 194 pounds with a BMI of 32 (that is a body fat count of 39 %)….good heavens!
Now, I have not always been a ‘big’ girl. My younger years were slimmer although the weight has progressively crept up over the years. I have tried many diets to try to regain control, but as soon asI stopped the program, the weight returned or even increased! I also cannot even count how many times I bought a gym membership with the best intentions, only to stop going after the first few weeks. So with a track record of failure it was pretty easy to justify not even trying.
In any event, I decided to face my fears and overcome my excuses and join the program. My first visit with Dawn was awesome. She gave me great information and listened, really listened to my issues, concerns, and questions. She encouraged me to join in the Lifestyle Education and Group Fitness classes and I am glad she did. The educational classes offered a lot of detailed information and answered questions that I didn’t even know I had. The fitness classes are challenging because of my poor level of fitness but everyone is so supportive and encouraging and the instructors help you modify exercise to suit your abilities. I am already doing activities that I thought I might never be able to do again. My energy levels are increasing and in the last 3 weeks I have managed to lose 8 pounds!
Although things are a challenge, so far nothing in the WMU program has been beyond my ability to do, and best of all is the support and encouragement I receive from both the CFWLS staff and the other members. I feel that has probably been the missing ingredient in every other program I have ever been in before- folks cheering me on.
I am looking forward to the weeks to come as I get lighter and stronger. I understand that it will take time, but every little bit adds up. I am also setting mini goals as well as big goals and the great goal setting tips given to me by the Center have really helped me keep my focus. My next immediate goal is increasing my fitness by walking at least 5000 steps a day and working out at least 3 times a week. I will keep everyone posted on my progress. Thank you, CFWLS, for making this journey possible!
Mary Ann vs. the Ides of March
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Skies are gloomy, but Mary Ann reviews her goals.
The Ides of March are upon us! Ohio has been dreary and rainy and my moods have been the same. I have not been able to exercise due to knee pain and swelling. A trip to the orthopedist and an MRI next week hopefully will give me some good news or at least a recovery plan.
I also have made some poor food choices in the past week; pizza, pie and ice cream for our son’s birthday equaled 2 lbs of weight gain, add a week of horrendous work hours, drug rep lunch and overtime…if I let it, I could really get depressed and fall back in to old habits.
This is where the change occurs. Before I joined CFWLS, this would be enough for me to give up and start looking for a new diet plan after indulging myself. I remembered Claire’s words to me: positive self talk, pick up the challenge at the next meal. So I recognized these as temporary set backs; it is what it is, now get back on track! I reviewed my goals, broke down my weight loss weekly to reach my goal weight of 140 lbs. in 6 months. It is a pound of weight loss per week. This is doable!
Now some exciting news! We are planning a vacation. The end of March will find us in Virginia. I am looking forward to seeing my sister Karol and her family, visit the new weight loss center, get some exercise in, and meet the wonderful support staff in person, especially “Grandma Claire”!
I always perform best under pressure, 3 weeks to get back on track, drop a few pounds and be successful!
See you soon! Can I order some sun while we are there? I need light therapy!
The Ups and Downs of Your Weight Loss program–Don’t quit!
Posted by: | CommentsThis week we’re doing the Christmas and New Year’s weigh ins! Even though most of our team gained weight, they are still hanging in there. So should you!
Don't give up when the scale moves up instead of down!
The “Losing it CFWLS” team weighs in!
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- Starkisha’s goal is to lose over 15 lbs.
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- Cat’s goal is to lose 12 lbs.
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- Karol’s goal is to lose 15 lbs.
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- Shawn’s goal is to lose over 30 lbs.
Meet the “losers”: Losing it CFWLS!
Posted by: | CommentsHere at Center for Weight Loss Success, we understand the difficulties that are involved in losing weight. Sometimes it is very difficult and frustrating, but working as a team can be uplifting and keep you going when it seems like all is not lost. We’re hoping that not only can you find some encouragement in following our personal weight loss stories, but that you will be inspired to join us on our weight loss journey. So let’s meet those CFWLS “losers”!
My name is Cat. I help people get scheduled for weight loss surgery. I am someone you will likely talk to when you call the office. I love it at CFWLS! My husband, Jeff and I have two college age children, Zachary and Courtney. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, walking, reading and creative cooking.
Although my husband Jeff and I have, for the past several years, been practicing SOMEWHAT of a healthy lifestyle, he, at just 49 years of age, “threw us for a loop” this past year by having a heart attack while running bases with the high school softball team that he coaches. After emergency procedures, and a few days in the hospital, it was determined that it was time to “step up to the plate” and take our healthy lifestyle goals to a new level.
Although Jeff has extreme discipline, I tend to “cheat” and make choices that are less healthy. Therefore, my goal is to get on the same page with my hubby. Since I enjoy cooking, I’ve been experimenting with substitutions that are much healthier, but actually taste amazing! Since I hope to lose 12 pounds, I’ll use the many tools and suppport at CFWLS…I’m excited.
My name is Starkisha. I am a medical assistant/medical receptionist here at CFWLS. I have a son named Nyzere who is 3 years old. In my spare time I like to sepnd as much of it as I can with my son. I also enjoy spending time with my family and reading. My goal is to lose 15 or more pounds. Bring on the “Losing It CFWLS” challenge!
My name is Dani. I have been Dr. Clark’s Medical Assistant for the last seven years. I truly enjoy seeing people so happy as they lose weight and change their habits for good! I have four grown children and one grandchild. Recently, my life has gone through some major change, not necessarily good or bad, just the natural order of things.
This year my youngest graduated from high school and in the fall was off to college. This transition has not been easy for me as I have always worked and any free time was spend supporting the kid’s activities. Band, soccer and swimming kept me busy most of the time. Now what? Sit in front of the TV and eat after work? This is where I was headed…no way this can happen! I have by chance become involved with horse rescue. It is a place for horses that have been abused, neglected or in some cases the owners just cannot afford to keep them anymore. I have found my passion! This is so exciting and motivating for me. I am so motivated to lose the weight and get in shape so I can give my best to these wonderful creatures. I can feel my weight holding me back. I need to be able to move more freely and look forward to maybe riding again. So much ahead!
My name is Shawn and I am 42 years old. I have been married 22 years and have 2 college age children. I have worked in the medical field for 18 years. I enjoy spending time with family and friends, going to the beach and playing softball. My goal is to learn how to take care of me again and to lose 30+ pounds.
My name is Dawn. I have been with Dr. Clark’s Center for Weight Loss success for almost a year now! I work as a Lifestyle & Weight Loss Consultant and Personal Trainer here at the center. I too struggle to keep off those excess pounds and have joined the battle of the bulge here at our office. My goal is to drop 15 pounds in the next 4 months.
Health & fitness are my passion but traveling and cooking are my hobbies and I try to modify the recipes I collect on my trips to blend into a healthier lifestyle. My 50th birthday is right around the corner and I’d like to be around another 50 years!
My husband, Tim, and I have been married for 28 years and have a son & daughter who live in the area.
My name is Karol. I am a nurse and Dr. Clark’s wife. We have 4 children ages 8, 10, 13 and 14. I have always worked full-time and really love the exciting things going on at CFWLS and the opportunity to lose weight with everyone here. I work full-time here doing a lot of the “behind the scene” activities such as patient educational materials, website management, administrative duties, managing the construction for the new facility and anything else that needs to be done. I love the team here and I feel fortunate to be a part of something so special that will change the health of our community in such a great way.
I work long hours at the office and often at home and yet, I love what I do. Between this and taking care of our great (and very active) kids, there isn’t much time to focus on me and thus…I have put on weight. My goal is to lose about 15 pounds. My husband practices what he teaches each and every day! He always gets his protein in, eats properly and exercises nearly every single day - no matter how long his day was. You would think that would just “rub off”on me but we all make our own choices. During stress…mine aren’t always the greatest. I am motivated to lose this weight and join the ranks of our many patients who have easily incorporated great new habits into their lifestyle for good!
Get SMART: Setting weight loss goals
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photo by Distec International
“Weight-loss goals can mean the difference between success and failure,” according to the Mayo Clinic. Well-planned weight loss goals provide a plan that keeps you focused and motivated. Poorly planned goals, on the other hand, are unrealistic and almost impossible to achieve. If you set unrealistic goals, you will probably end up frustrated and discouraged and decide to quit all your efforts to lose weight. These tips will help you create well-planned weight loss goals that will have you on the path to weight loss success:
1. Begin by breaking down one big goal into a series of smaller ones. Having one big goal can be overwhelming, especially if you have a lot of weight to lose. Take small steps to meet your main goal and you will be more likely to succeed because small goals are more manageable. Consider short-term goals as stepping stones to reaching long-term goals.
2. Be willing to change your goals as you progress. You may find that your smaller goals are not challenging enough and you may need to adjust them as you adapt to your new lifestyle. Review your goals each week, think about what worked and what didn’t and make new goals accordingly.
3. Set goals that take your personal capabilities into consideration. Take your schedule, fitness level and health into consideration, and your goals will be more achievable.
4. Make sure that your weight loss goals are realistic. Don’t expect rapid weight loss. Safe weight loss is usually around 2 pounds each week. This means that you will need to burn about an extra 1,000 calories each day. You can do this by cutting back the calories and adding extra activity into your life everyday.
5. Focus on changing your habits. Changing your habits and making a lifestyle change is the key to successful weight loss. Focus on the process of change and not on the outcome.
6. Identify potential setbacks. By recognizing potential setbacks before hand, you can brainstorm strategies that will help you to overcome them and keep you on track. Setbacks are normal and most of us have experienced them.
7. Write down your goals. You will be more successful if you write down all the details of your goals. It will help to make you more aware of your expectations, give you more accountability and serve as a great reference tool as to what works and what doesn’t.
8. Timing can make the difference between success and failure. Timing is crucial. You may need to look at your life and resolve some issues first. Make sure that other stressors such as work and personal life are as calm as you can make them. Don’t start a weight loss plan and a new job at the same time. Once you have chosen a starting date to lose weight – don’t put it off!
At Dr. Clark’s Center for Weight Loss Success you will learn that goals need to be SMART – meaning that they need to be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Time-bound. Set your personal goals and get started! You’ll find that realistic and well-planned goals will help you have a more successful weight loss program.
Follow Dani’s Journey to Lose 45 Pounds in 6 Months
Posted by: | CommentsDani is like so many of us. She has struggled with her weight for a number of years. Follow along as she shares her journey towards long term weight loss success through the 6 month weight loss program at the Center for Metabolic Health which includes comprehensive education through their exclusive Weight Management University. You can follow Dani’s journey on the CMH blog!
Ask the experts – Realistic Advice for Weight Loss Success
Posted by: | CommentsWeight loss doesn’t have to be difficult and frustrating. Let Dr. Thomas W. Clark and the weight loss experts at CMH help you overcome your barriers to weight loss success so you can incorporate easy to follow information into your every day life and live the healthy life you desire.
We welcome your questions/comments and will respond as soon as possible to get you the help you need. Log in and ask away…helping people lose weight is our passion and we are here to help!
Did know that there may be underlying causes preventing you from successful weight loss? Learn more by visiting www.cmhva.com
At CMH, Our Mission is…to create a community of motivated people who understand how to successfully manage their weight for life.
