My JC Adventure

Tonight in Class We Took Pics!

2011-07-11T20:30:00.001-07:00

Now notice how studious my class is! Aren't they great????

Back to Blogging!

2011-07-10T20:44:00.000-07:00

Hi there!

On July 5, 2011 I started a new adventure in my life, a lifelong dream of mine to become a college instructor!

The journey up to this point in my life has been long and winding. At times rocky and somewhat tumultuous, and at others it was calm seas and smooth sailing. During the years since I decided that being an adult educator was a goal I continued to operate a very successful business, be active in my children's lives, and to be a "Bammah" (this name was coined by my oldest grandson Tony) to what is now a brood of 8 grandchildren. I also completed the remaining 1 1/2 years to finish my Bachelors of Science in Business Administration (BSBA) Degree Online at the University of Phoenix Online (after a 25 year hiatus). Immediately followng my BSBA degree I began in earnest to seek my Masters in Business Administration (MBA) as this was required by all college level institutions in order to become a college instructor. I received my MBA from Norwich University in Northfield, VT, through their online program. It was an 18 month program, which including attending the university campus in Vermont at the end of the 18 months to complete our coursework, meet faculty face-to-face, our fellow students, and to present our final papers and debates. So I even got to experience college dorm life, a pleasant surprise in an online environment.

I am throughly enjoying the teaching experience. I love learning, and helping my students to expand their horizons in education. I would say we had a great first week in EN1101 Composition 1, at Brown Mackie Albuquerque.

Oktoberfest & Rio Grande Gorge Bridge View

2008-09-24T04:57:00.001-07:00

Oktoberfest in Taos

Ski Valley and the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge in Northern NM. What a day trip.

I felt like I had driven to California when I got home that night, but we had fun...bad Goulash and all. or was it Ghoulash???

The pix are of my sister Kathy who came and spent three great weeks with me. She helped me unpack and get settled, pitched in at the office, and taught me to make our Mom's bread.

Great Fun.

Enjoy.

Motorcycle Mama

2008-09-24T04:47:00.000-07:00

Hi all,

I have been having a great time this past month riding my bike, maintaining my exercise and weight maintenance schedule.

My weigh in last week was 137.2, so I am pleased that after 18 months, I keep my weight between 135 and 140.

I still track my food on a business card sized tally sheet in my wallet, as i feel this keeps me on track.

Here are a few pix of me with the MC (mine is the Big Silver/Black Softail in Front) and my daughter Kari and her friend Dave ( I am the short thin one!) last weekend in the mountains of NM, and at the dedication of the Veteran Memorial in Tijeras, NM.

Enjoy!

New Granddaughters! (Two) Read All About it!

2008-09-24T04:42:00.000-07:00

Nearly 10 years ago on Franklin Square in New Orleans, I sat on the steps and watched all the fortune tellers, some used crystals, some used balls, some used crystal balls and others used potions and lotions. They related story after story, read life lines, and tea leaves, and gave hope to the various travelers that crossed their paths.I watched with yearning anticipation, wondering which of the tellers would I choose? Should I have them read my tea leaves, or my palm.Should I have her gaze into her crystal ball and tell me of my future? Did I dare ask, or did I really want to know?I hemmed and hawed. But finally I chose. I chose the young lady who seemed the most sincere. The one I chose she welcomed me, she took my palm and cradled it into hers with care. She gazed into my soul and shared many things with me that could have matched anyone of our lives.I would live a long and happy life!I wear and continue to wear my heart on the outside of my sleeve!I would have 6 (six) grandchildren!Now like most of us, we plan on living a long and happy life.Like most women, our hearts are more visible and vulnerable.But...six grandchildren....I thought she was nuts!I came home and told my girls what the fortune teller had said.They were shocked, since at that time I only had one grandson, neither of my girls were married, and there were no immediate plans for those other 5 grandchildren.I tucked the memory of that day on Franklin Square away. But as my daughters got married, and successively got pregnant, the grandbabies began to flow. Within 14 months 3 more grandsons were born and I now had 4 grandsons. Over the next 5 years that message on Franklin Square kept popping up in my head. I urged my girls, who in no uncertain terms said..."I don't know where those other 2 grandkids are going to come from, but it won't be me".I don't know if that fortune teller even knew, but I am a mom to 2 natural daughters that gave me my 4 beautiful, loving, handfuls. Bammah's Boys.Tony, Trevor, Hunter and Hayden. I also have two other children, not the kind you "pop from the oven" but the kind that "pop into your hearts". Cinda came to me about 1988, she is a wonderful daughter, a teacher, and a free spirit.Donovan, came a bit more untraditionally in the early 90's. He came as the first love of my daughter, became her best friend, and "popped" into my heart. My first son. It was not meant that he would be my son-in-law, it was meant he would be my son.And now the tale it takes the turn, the tellers promise would be made.The easter bunny brought me a gift in 2007, my first granddaughter Alexis came into my life at age 4. She is so special, as is her Mom, Donovan's love Dolores. Yesterday 9.15.2008 with love, lots of hard work on Dolores part, and in the image of her father, #6 was born. Little Madyson Renee Greathouse.Well Ma'am, I guess I need to return to New Orleans, to find me a teller, to tell me what I already know....Family is everything...My children and grandchildren are why my heart is on my sleeve.I will live a long and healthy life because of these blessings.So what else do you predict Ma'am???Only time will tell.

Too Long to Be Gone!

2008-09-06T17:23:00.000-07:00

Hi there everyone. I am sorry I have been neglecting my blog.

I have had a myriad of happenings this spring and summer, and been busier than a one armed paper hanger. (Think About it)

I just wanted to tell you on the JC front that I am doing great! My weight fluctuates between 135 and 140.

I use my Wii Fit daily, and love the way you can vary you exercise patterns. Sometimes I do Yoga and Strength.

Other Days Yoga and Aerobics.

And still other days Wii SPorts Training and Balance Games On Wii Fit.

I still track my food exchanges, to make sure I get all my calories in, and my body clock has come into its own, where it reminds me when I need to eat.

I just got a hair cut, so I am including a new pix for you.

Love you all, and miss you.

Mary Jo

Feb 18 to April 23 - Where have I been?

2008-04-23T23:36:00.001-07:00

Hi All.

I thought I better write a bit in here, or you all might be wondering where I have been.

Well on the early morning of Feb 18, I had a phone call that my Mom had to go to the hospital for what turned out to be a Urinary tract Infection, Dehydration, and two bed sores. It also turned out to be the beginning of the end of her life.

In 7 weeks my Mom went from a perfectly healthy,beautiful, vital, strong willed woman, to a woman whose body gave out on April 11, but whose soul lives on in all those she touched.

Over those 7 weeks I made 3 trips to So. Ca to be with her.

The first trip was for 10 days shortly after she became ill, and was in intensive care.

The second trip was after she had had her third hospitalization, and her 12th blood transfusion, and she was back in the care center. My youngest daughter and I went for 5 days, and just spent quality time with her. He helped her eat her meals, encouraged her to try and do her physical therapy so we could take her outside to sit in the lovely sunshine, washed her hair, gave her a manicure, bought her straberry milkshakes (her new favorite) and read her the newspaper. We even watched old John Wayne "westerns" on AMC with her. What a special time, as she did gain back her rosy cheeks, her twinkle in her eyes, and her child like smirk.

The third trip was for her Rosary, Funeral and Memorial.

I am going to post a copy of your the program from her memorial for you all to see.

This is a pix of my beautiful Mom and I from 2003.

She is everything in my heart, and I am so blessed to have had her with me for 52 years.

I will post another blog to update you on my JC adventure on April 25, but I want you to know that my JC friends support means the world to me.

Helen Josephine Padden
Born:
October 31, 1918 - April 11, 2008
Celebration of Life
April 15 & 16, 2008

Tuesday April 15, 2008 Cabot and Son’s Funeral Home
Family Viewing - 05:00pm
Public Viewing - 06:00pm
Rosary - 07:00pm – Rosary led by Deacon Jim Crowley, music previously recorded on CD by Virginia Duran
Wednesday April 16, 2008
Funeral Mass - 10:00am St Andrews Catholic Church - Monsignor Tobias English officiating
Pallbearers:
Harry Baker, Robert Butler, Michael Padden, Charles Conjurske, Justin Thaxton, Rhett Butler
Honorary Pallbearers:
Robert Stene, Tom Cwiek, Scott Stene, Lynn Pabst, Todd Stene
Readings – The Liturgy of the Word:
1st Reading from the Old Testament – Wisdom 3:1-6,9 – Helen Ann Baker
Responsorial Psalm – Mary Jo Cwiek
Please join us in the response of “My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord My God”
2nd Reading from the New Testament – 2 Corinthians 4:14-5:1 – Kathleen Padden
Prayer of the Faithful, General Intercessions – Mary Jo Cwiek
Please join us in the response of “Bless us and keep us, O Lord”
The Liturgy of the Eucharist – Offertory of the Body and Blood of Christ:
Kari Anne Wallace, Joanna Conjurske, Elizabeth Thaxton, Rhett Butler
Children’s Offertory – Grandma’s cough drops, raisins, fig Newton’s and cough syrup (a few of GiGi’s favorite remedies):
Tony Conjurske, Hunter Wallace, Trevor Conjurske, Hayden Wallace – representing all the Great Grandchildren
Eucharistic Ministers:
Adolph and Virginia Duran
Organist:
Mrs. Puccianelli
Cantor:
We do not know his name, however his voice reminded us of an angel, and we felt he and Virginia in “spirit” would be singing.
Internment – Resurrection Cemetery, San Gabriel, California – Led by Deacon Jim Crowley
Celebration of Helen’s Life:
Immediately following the Internment at 1854 Estrella Ave
Monrovia, CA (626) 303-4301. or (505) 263-4877
12:30 PM til the “Cows come home!” as Mom would say!
Eulogy:
Delivered by “The Kids”
Memories of our Mother, Helen:
We are here today to celebrate Helen, you all know her by different names, Mom, Mum, Grandma, Grama, Gram, GiGi, Auntie Helen, and Auntie Gibraltor, which was recently “coined” by Pammie to describe her strength and the rock upon which the foundation of the “Padden Clan” is built. She was also known as “Nana” to the younger Pollerana & Ramirez kids, and all the residents of Glenrose Avenue, Mrs. Padden to the older Pollerana kids on the block and “Mrs. P” to all the big “kids”.
Helen, our Mother, was the proud matriarch of our family having 6 children, 15 Grandchildren and 23 Great Grandchildren. In addition Helen had cultivated many lifelong friendships.
Gloria & Family:
Grandma and Grandpa raised a beautiful family. The Lord can see this to. This is a difficult time, there are sad tears and there are very happy tears. I am glad Grandma is with all of those that have passed before her, she will be a busy woman catching up with all of them. Grandma and Grandpa gave us some many awesome memories. I can remember just waiting for them to come out to WI. We just waited for that motor home to pull into town. Lot's of fun, visiting and things to do. We always had a great time.
And then the time would come for Grandma and Grandpa to leave....always a river of tears.
I know that Grandma is bringing that joy to all of those she has known, I also know the good Lord needed her to be with him, she answered the call as she has always done. We try not to grieve over Grandma, rather find peace in her, we always have. We do celebrate the greatness of Grandma, she has touched so many in this world, ALWAYS WITH A SMILE. So as the day's, go by I pray to God to give all of us the strength, courage and understanding. I pray we find hope and comfort knowing that Grandma is in God's kingdom.

Mary Lou & Family:
I will always remember the Trip Mom, Mary Jo, Tom and I took to Hawaii, she enjoyed it so much she had wanted to make another trip back to visit her Granddaughter, Christi (who she always called Chrissy), Mom could never complete this trip. I also remember when Mom took my little sister Mary Jo, her friend Cheryl and my children, and Gloria’s children, her Wisconsin grandkids to Apple River. Lesa, my daughter, decided rafting the Apple River was not for her and got off, not, letting her Grandma know. When all the kids got to the end of the raft trip Lesa, was nowhere to be found and that is when the drama started. Mom not finding Lesa, started hollering and yelling for her, ultimately Lesa was found where we got on the rafts, not the end, and all was well. Boy, I could hear my Mom yelling from where I was 30 miles away. Mom’s voice and yell was legendary. As always Mom was here for every one of her kids, she supported me through the shock of the unexpected death of my husband, Dale. Mom would give her Love and support to all us kids.

Helen Ann & Harry:
I remember a lot of family camping trips and all the good food, fun and drinks. The trip I remember most is the one to Lake Casitas, because it was the first time that Harry met Mom and Daddy. Everyone else was having chicken, but we had picked up steaks, and were they ever good. As the evening went on and the” jelly beans” went from licorice flavor to pomegranate, Harry lost it, his steak that is, and Mom, seeing him hugging a tree, exclaimed, "Oh, that beautiful steak!"
Pat:
The things I admire and remember most about Mom was when we moved from the farm in Wisconsin to California, there is a memory I will not share with all of you, it has to do with egg salad and a car full of kids, I’ll leave it at that. Mom didn’t have farm chores to do anymore, she and Daddy both worked, to provide their children with the guidance and education to grow in our own lives. We ultimately gave back to them the loves of their lives, their Grandchildren, enriching and at times frustrate their lives. One of the greatest gifts Mom and Daddy gave to the family was the love and knowledge they imparted on all of their Grandchildren.
Kathy & Bob:
For the last 9 years, Mum has lived with Bob, our Son, Rhett and Myself and her three puppies. When Mum turned 80 she said she “I am 80 years old and don’t want to worry about anything anymore” that is when Mom came to us. Mum was always busy cooking dinners, washing clothes and dishes and watching over us. When we “suggested” that Mum not work so hard around the house, she said it keeps me busy, healthy and happy. Mom would take walks around our neighborhood in good weather and around our kitchen and living room in bad weather (which was anything below 80 degrees). Mum will be remembered and sorely missed. But we celebrate the Mum is at home with Daddy and maybe even getting him to dance.
Mary Jo & Tom:
We so enjoyed Mom’s long visits to New Mexico. Tom loved watching mom sitting in the sunroom in her big chair and doing her word search puzzles. She was always nice and warm in there, and would fall asleep in the warmth of our New Mexico sun. They had many wonderful talks about the good old times. My memories are many. I can still smell the smell of “spit” on the hanky when she would rub away my milk mustache before she dropped me at the baby sitter. How I would say “That’s all wight mommy” when I would spill something or make a big mess!, but most importantly how for the last 13 years she was in New Mexico for the births of my grandchildren. When Tony was born, we were all in the room, and Mom, Tom and I went through every contraction, counting to 10 with Joanna. At one point Joanna said…that’s it I am done, and Mom said…sorry honey it does not work that way!

Grandkids Memories:
Scott:
I remember camping when the weather got bad, and the all the boys had to sleep in the outhouse, and the girls got to sleep in the comfort of the camper. Also we grandkids seemed to eat “ketchup” on everything, so Grandma thought she would make us Bologna sandwiches, and she of course put “ketchup” on them. But…we wanted no part of that! Then she said “Those darn kids eat ketchup on everything, how was I supposed to know, they did not like it on Bologna Sandwiches!”
Leann:
The way Grandma pronounced onion as “on-i-yen” and trash as “thrash”. Grandma also made the best creamed peas and carrots.
Lesa and Lynn:
The six weeks we spent with Grandma and Grandpa when we were young. This is Lynn, Grandpa fixed a bike for me and this is Lesa, maybe my love for cooking started with Grandma cooking and baking in her kitchen. There was always ice cream at night and they took us to so many wonderful places and showered us with their Love.

Todd:
I love her apple crisp, and I like how she would chase me out of the kitchen when she was cooking. Even when we went to the Glenwood fair, Grandma was willing to ride the “hammer” and go upside down. I never thought she would do it, but that was pretty cool!
Joni:
I remember talking politics with Grandma, and when she talked about “Bushie” as she called both of them, the steam would just come out of her ears. Also I remember Grandma’s meatloaf…she was the best cook in the world! Also the way Grama became my Mom after Mom passed away.
Michael:
The memory I have is Christi and I in the back seat of the car, and Grandma yelling at Grandpa saying “Stop, James you’re gonna hit him!” Jesus, I think she wore out the floorboard on the passenger side of the car using the imaginary brake!

Christi:
Grandma always took me shopping and bought cookies for me. I would always pick either the frosted animal crackers or butter cookies.

Kari:
I remember going to Mountain Lakes, watching “Loosey Goosey”, smelling Catfish Lake, Picking Apples on Grandpa’s shoulders and having Grandma make homemade applesauce
Joanna:
I remember the five days I spent with Grandma recently when she was in the hospital, but especially the little “Chicken Dance” she did for the Physical Therapist. It will always make me laugh.
Elizabeth:
My Memory is about Cinnamon Toast. Grama never asked me what I wanted for breakfast, she always made me cinnamon toast, and it was my favorite.
Kristina:
I remember that no one could make Tuna Noodle Salad, like Grandma Helen. She gave the recipe to my Mom but it was just not the same no matter what!
Rhett:
Grandma’s favorite words were “shittin this and shittin that” and when all was done, everything was all said and done, everything was OK.
Special Family Friends:
Virginia & Adolph:
Of all the people I know when I think of Helen I think of a beautiful soul, a person who knew how to laugh and share her love. Every time we got together we could talk, talk, talk, until Jimmie or Adolph would say “Are you two still on the phone???” We would hurry our goodbyes, and plan our next get together. She and I are Sisters for ever.
Ravon:
I remember when Kathy and I went to WI, and went barhopping one night, while Mom watched Mike and Christi. We stayed out til 4:30 in the morning, and when we got home, Mom said she had the “whole town” out looking for us. We caught ‘hell’ but…we knew it was only because she was our Mom and loved us.
Anne & Charles:
We remember when we moved from Minnetonka to Poway and Helen’s family became our family. That is when Helen became “Grandma Helen” to Chad and Kristina. How wonderful to be in a new place, and to feel so welcome and loved.
Pammie:
Auntie Helen did become our “Auntie Gibraltar” not just recently, but gradually over the years. With each birth, death or illness, the foundation of our family continued to grow in her. She is a beautiful butterfly now surrounded in pinkish – bluish light.
Vickie:
I remember all the wonderful parties, and poker games at Auntie Helen’s. Once I got in big trouble when I stayed out late, playing cards, and Peter had to come and get me. It was so wonderful to have Auntie Helen, as a surrogate Mom after my Mom passed away.
Lord we ask that you bless each of Helen’s children, that they may find peace in her physical absence, while knowing her spiritual presence daily. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
Lord we ask you to have Helen’s smile and kind words permeate every airline terminal, and that people will come together to laugh and share, not knowing why, but only knowing her joy for travel. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
Oh wondrous God, you have given Helen 15 grandchildren, and allowed her to show them the love she shared with our daddy James. We pray Lord that you wrap your gentle arms around them with their Grandparents love, and maintain a firm grip on each of them when their road finds bumps. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
O’ Lord you were able to turn water into wine, one fish into thousands, one loaf of bread to feed the masses. We pray that Helen’s love for food, be brought to mind at our tables for ever. That as we share fellowship among family and friends, that her hands will be in every spoonful that nourishes us body and soul. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
Like the Blessed Virgin Mary watches over us as the Queen of Heaven, we pray that Gigi will be there ever surrounding the little ones of our family that are with us today, and those that are yet to come. We pray that she with your intercession continue to guide them, and teach them of your love and understanding regardless of their challenges. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
Lord we pray that Helen’s ability to nurture and love in her new role in Heaven will flow down to all of us on earth. That we might learn to comfort those in need with the compassion Helen shared with all over the years. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.
Lord, we understand that your master plan for our lives is ever-present. We realize it is hard sometimes, to “Let Go and Let God”, but that in doing so we release our Angel Helen to be admitted into the Choir of Angels in Heaven. We pray that her smiles fill our hearts, and her strength permeate our lives. We look forward to the revelation of your plan for our lives, and know that we too will meet her again in your heavenly kingdom. Bless us and keep us, O Lord.

After Kauai Weigh In

2008-02-21T16:38:00.001-08:00

Well I wanted to go yesterday since I am a Wednesday Warrior, but time did not permit. So I went today instead to see how much damage the HUla Pie, the Macadamia Nuts, and the Lapperts Ice Cream did.

I promised you before and after pix from Kauai. The left pix is Tom and I on a Catamaran Cruise Feb 13, 2008 (After 48 weeks of JC Maintenance and loosing 50#). The right pix is is my sister Mary Lou and I in Orange T Shirt on Feb 9, 2006 (Before JC)

It was actually better than I thought...I tipped the scales at 139.2, so that was only an increase of 4.4# over my last weigh in on Feb 5.

I actually was thinking it could be 5#, so I was pleased.

That is a manageable gain on maintenance, and allows me to keep my skills sharp, and yet still be able to fully enjoy the vacation.

I did indulge my whims, and yet I made good choices.

I could have done a lot more damage, if I had not kept to my 6 meals a day schedule, carried my Jc snacks to eat on the plane, etc...

I am also still retaining a bit of water, which commonly happens to me when I travel.

I am traveling to CA next week to visit my Mom in the hospital, and my in-laws who have not been well either, however this type of a trip I find I can totally stay on maintenance.

Even if I want to go to the Northwoods Inn (our anniversary & birthday favorite place), I can make menu selections, and choices all within the program.

I eat out often, and always have while on JC maintenance. This is living in the real world, and making it work.

I do need to be between 130 and 140 when I weigh in on April 25, 2008 to get my $199 rebate from JC, and you can bet your bottom I will be between 133 and 138 on that day, and every April 25th for the rest of my life.

I am a lifetime member, I love this program, and what I have learned in it. Are there things I would do differently if it was "The Mary Jo Weight Loss Program" probably, but why fix what is not broke.

One thing I would do better would be to create halfway and maintenance tools to keep members transitioning to the "real food - real world" some extra support. I keep a tab of every exchange I eat throughout the day, and an easy to carry card to tick them off would be great. I have developed my own system, and would like to share it with my friends. I am having my printer look into printing one for me. So maybe I will have some to share.

Well my next weigh in is March 6, so I will blog again at that time, unless something earth shattering arises before then.

Take care all.

Mary Jo

Kauai 2008 was really great

2008-02-18T21:35:00.000-08:00

Hey all...

Well I am back, and I survived vacation without doing toooooooo much damage JC wise that is.

I did share a Hula Pie with 3 other people. I did eat one or two macadamia nuts, and I did really try to get in at least all my fruits, veggies, water, and eat my 6 times everyday while gone.

I do know I had some water retention (swollen ankles noticed on plane flight yesterday) so today I can see my ankle bones better so should be back to normal and no time.

I think I will go into JCC on weds and see what Mr. Scale says, so I can get back on track.

One of the best things about JC maintainence is that you know what to do, and you are in control. You don't have to beat yourself up, you just have to get back on track and follow the plan.

I have a new goal. April 25 is my one year goal anniversary, and if I did gain on vacation, I need to be within 5# up or down of my 135 goal weight by April 25th so I get my $199 rebate back on my platinum membership.

I did find a great new additive to water while at Costco in Hawaii called 'Green to Go'. It is 30 cals, and is a complete serving of Fruit and Veg, and Omega 3 stuff.

It is an Apple Melon flavour, looks gross, but mmmmmmmmm!

Well I promised some new me pix, so they are up above for your viewing pleasure.

I will post a weigh in update after weds, and of course my plan of action to make my Anniversary Goal.

Feb 6 Weigh In..Thoughts

2008-02-07T22:14:00.000-08:00

Well I had my monthly weigh in yesterday, and it went well.

My measurements and my weight are on track.

134.8 is what the scale said, so that is great.

It has been a frustrating few weeks with the JC wesbite (new version) and all the bugs. I was having Chat withdrawls, and resorting to My Space, Yahoo, etc...

Well in about 30 hours I will be boarding that plane for Kauai, so watch for my new me pix in about a week.

I loaded the POrky (my favorite Pig) as my new Avatar.

Aloha all.

Remotivation

2008-01-12T22:18:00.000-08:00

You know my JC friends are the best.
I have been on program now for 77 weeks, and after the frist 36 weeks and losing my 50# I have maintained my weight loss for 41 weeks now.
I have "talked" to many of you in the past 11 days of 2008, and your enthusiasm continues to support me.
Lester Lou has set a new goal, and has been on the program now for 6 weeks.
Stef has started doing the Leslie Sansone Walking Tape...hell I have had that tape for 77 weeks and never even opened it. What a dufus I am to have such a great tool just sitting idle.
Traci has some great recipes on her blog using JC foods and some meals on your own.
DanRI has lost nearly 10# in 4 weigh ins, and is going to add exercise to the mix real soon I know it.
L2 and I both like the 'Beef with mashed Potatoes" which others have said tastes like canned dog food.
I had a great dinner tonight!
3 oz of Potatoe Encrusted Cod, with 1/4 Cup Brown Rice, a Big Salad with Raspberry Flair Salad Spritzerand a TBS of Flaxseed sprinkled on it, and 3 Cups of Steamed Veggie Medley (Zuchinni, Cauliflower & Baby Carrots). Not great....Incredible. = 3 Meat, 2 Starch, 6 Veggies, 1 Fat.
It is the little things that motivate me.
Your successes, and your challenges, help to keep me on my game.
So thanks everyone....
Love ya all.

After the New Year Weigh In and Kauai Bound

2008-01-10T13:59:00.000-08:00

Well I went yesterday for my monthly maintenance weigh in, and weighed 137#.

No bad, for having on 6 layers of clothes! So I figure I was right on track with my maintenance goal of 135#.

I did not do measurements, since I had on all the layers I told Jalene that I would wear "skinny" clothes on Feb 6th for my next weigh in, so we could get an accurate weight and measurements, cold or not!

I will have a REALLY good weigh in on Feb 6, becuase on Feb 9th at 6:00 AM I, my hubby, my daughter Joanna, son-in-law Charles, grandsons Tony & Trevor, In-Laws Ray & Sharon are all heading towards the big blue yonder for 7 days of warm paradise on Kauai!

Non of the others have ever been so it will be fun playing the tour guide.

I know we plan on renting Harley's at least one day, and taking a bus tour up to Wiamea Canyon, the Fern Grotto, the Kauai Coffee Plantation, and Hanuama Bay. Other possible fun stuff will be a Snorkeling catamaran day trip or a Sunset catamaran Cruise to the Napali Coast, and perhaps an ATV expedition, or Innertubing down the Sugar cane Chutes.

Well whatever we all choose to do, it will be fun, a blast, and WARM!

The picture above is a chubby pix from Nov 2003 in Kauai,

when I return I will post a Skinny MJ in Kauai pix Feb 2008.

See you all soon, ALOHA

Happy New Year - 2008 Will be great!

2007-12-31T21:47:00.000-08:00

Happy New Years one and all.

It is almost here....1 hour and 12 minutes more and the bullets will be flying and the fireworks exploding over the New Mexico sky. Where am I? Safe and sound at home thinking of what a wonderful year it has been.

The trips we took, the people we saw, the people we lost and the people we gained.

Life is a circle, and even though there are people and places woven in and out of our lives, they each add a tidbit or more to our lives, making us who we are today.

We had a great Chrsitmas, it is always fun to watch my grandsons, and even my daughters as they get excited over their gifts, and the fun of being all together. Pictures of Kari with Hayden & Hunter, Joanna with Tony & Trevor, and of course Tom, Kari, Joanna & I with Chuy and Sioux in the pix too.

Well the clock is ticking, it is now 1 hour till midnight. Any last thoughts for 2007?

Well I just typed some really HEAVY stuff, and I deleted it.

This is not the proper forum.

2007 has been great, I am blessed to have a loving husband, two beautiful smart daughters who are super moms, a son-in-law that would "move" heaven and earth if we asked, a great "adopted" daughter, and a great "adopted" son. There may even be hope for those 2 additional grandkids someday between all those kids. Could that fortune teller have been right? 6 Grandkids!!!

Bammah's Boys are such treasures...Tony is so fun to talk to now. Really talk about the world, God, Science, deep stuff.

Hunter will get very quiet, and then come out with the cutest sayings. Trevor is very focused on construction right now. Hayden is like a parrot, repeats everythings, loves to say "NO" and is POTTY TRAINED! Hallelujah!

Now there is a 2007 Blessing! No one is in Diapers!

What to say for 2008?

I wish everyone good health and safety.

No accidents, broken bones, or surgeries.

I wish that my mother continues to enjoy good health, and that we ALL can be together for her 90th birthdays celebration next fall.

I wish that Dad finds peace mentally, and that his physical body stays strong.

I wish for compassion and understanding towards others.

(Another HEAVY thought deleted)

I hope to work more efficiently, so I can work less hours.

I hope to take more vacations, and more siestas.

Well my hopes and wishes are making me tired.

I hope all you desire becomes yours, just be careful of those HEAVY thoughts.

Love to all.

MaryJo

Happy Holidays one and all!

2007-12-22T17:22:00.000-08:00

Well the holidays are upon us, ready or not they are here. Grandkids are exicted, daughters are excited, and I am exhausted.
Had a colonscopy (baby boomer special) they called it, and doc said I got the boring award, nothing to look at nothing to see, come back in 10 years, I was happy to hear!
I weighed in on Thursday, and all was just fine 136 was what the scale said this time. I dropped off some presents for my JCC, and off like a flash to make holiday preparations.
Just wanted to tell you all Merry Christmas, and to offer a suggestion to be prepared with alternative foods just in case there is nothing to eat that is a good choice.
If you want something go ahead and taste it, get it out of your system, and know that you deserve a treat now and then.
Happy Holidays, I was gonna post a cute pix of Tom and I but I have it on my other computer so...next time.
Take care all, Happy New Year!

Where the Heck Have I been?

2007-12-05T17:48:00.000-08:00

Well if anyone is reading this (I am guessing everyone gave up on me...) I am still maintaining my weight loss, and doing great. I have had a busy harried fall, and have been remiss in keeping up with my JC friends, and our journey.
Although I have not been keeping up with my writing, I have kept up with my weight loss goals.
I had my monthly maintenance weigh in today, and I weighed 136.2, and inches lost are 33.75 so I am happy.
Still a size 4/6, and still enjoying my new lifestyle.
Have not been in the mood for shopping, Christmas presents or much of anything.
Don't know why? Waiting for the Christmas Spirit Bug to bite me I guess.
Well I hope all is well with you.
HAppy Holidays and Happy New year. I hope you all make your milestones, and goals.
TAke Care,
MaryJo

The SCALE did NOT need Calibrating - Darnit

2007-09-05T16:01:00.000-07:00

Well all, I know as we struggle to maintain our new lifestyle ruts or bumps in the road have to come. I was cruisin along with 19 weeks of maintenance under my belt, and had never weighed more than 136# during maintenance, and then I hit a pot hole.

I went on vacation like I told you all last week (had a great time by the way) and found that I had gained weight and was now at 140.2. A gain of 6.8#'s from my previous weigh in. Oh NO! I never wanted to see 140 again.

Me 140.2, it had to be the darn scale at the JC Center....but NO...it was me, and the butter and the fried eggs I ate, and the homemade cookies, rice krispie bars, and the ice cream, etc....

Oh well this is another week, but I was still telling myself it was that darn scale needed to be calibrated, but yesterday I weighed at home and I was 138 so I decided I would self JCicate. I dropped to 1200 cals yesterday although my weigh in was today I thought I better not wait, and just take the bull by the horns now.

So today I went to my Jenny Center the one with the GOOD scale...right???

And guess what....I weighed 137.6 So the good news I lost 2.6# since I weighed on the BAD MINNESOTA SCALE. The bad news is I am 2.6# over my goal weigh of 135. So needless to say I will be on the 1200 calories until I get back to 135 or below, and I will now know that I am not invincible.

My enemies Fried Eggs, Butter, Sugar, Fried Cheese Curds all still know my address, and are just hanging around waiting for an invitation back into my life.

I was thiking I am eating good, but I was out of my normal routine.

I usually have cereal 6 days a week for breakfast and only eat eggs once a week.

I usually eat 6 cups of veggies and salad a day, and I only ate about 3 if I was lucky, you would think I could have found more veggies in a dairy farming state huh?

I usually eat primarily chicken, and fish, but I ate Beef and Pork instead.

So the Bottom line is...it is good to screw up, to learn you are mortal, to realize if you are not as active you will have consequence. It is also good to have a plan, a lifestyle that has become so ingrained that instead of just giving up and saying well 140 ain't so bad...you can drop 500 cals a day, and JCicate your self back to your goal.

I guess this is what maintenance is about, the success is wonderful, but the Potholes are there to remind me how far I have come, and where I want to always stay!

The other good news...My size 4 pants are not tight, so I gained the weight in my boobs, and who can't use a little more there after loosing 7 inches. So I will just enjoy that extra 2.6# of boobs this week....and work on getting rid of them soon.

Wierd huh, what we can convince ourselves of? I was sure that the scale at the Woodbury, MN JC Centre needed to be calibrated.

Not...It was I thant needed the adjustment!

Here to weight loss once again friends.

Love ya all,

Mary Jo

Roadtrip to WI/MN

2007-09-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

What takes 10 days, a Motorhome, 2 harleys, and alot of patience? Driving cross country to visit family in Wisconsin and Minnesota.

What a trip, riding those harleys though the green farmland, swatting at bees (never have seen so many in one place before), and watching the beer flow like water was really great fun.

Here is a pix of two of my nieces LeeAnn, Joni and I. I am the short one in the orange shirt! The little one in the black shirt is my great niece Gracie (LeeAnn's daughter).

The pix of my Tom (hubby) Turkey and I (the Diva) at the Minnesota State Fair Turkey pavillion.

Then there are two little turkeys my great nieces, Ashley & Kayla right before we went on some awesome crazy rides at the midway. What a great trip!

Well we are home safe and sound, 2900 miles, and $585 in diesel fuel later, but we had a blast. We even survived two tornado warnings. What is it about us? Last time we went to California we survived two earthquakes. Is mother nature tapping on our door??? I think not...just a coincidence, but food for thought!

I weighed in the day before I left for vacation and was 133.4# so 1.6# below goal.

Then on vacation I went to a cnter in Woodbury, MN with my sister and almost had a stroke when I stepped on the scale. 140.2#. I hope to hell their scale needs calibration, but I was feeling a bit irregular so could be retaining water. I did eat well and track my food on vacation, but...everything in farm country seemed to be dripping with butter or beer, so maybe it got me.

I will have three days to get back on track, drink tons of water, and eat my own cooking, so I will let you know how my weigh in goes this week weds. This is my 19th week on maintenance, and except for this little vacation anomaly I have never been more than 136# since making my goal on April 25th. So needless to say I was a bit shocked, but regardless I will be fine. I tend to use my clothes as more of a measure than the scale, so no worries....my size 4 skinny pants are still loose, so I am betting that their scale needs calibration!

Am I paranoid? You bet! I worked too hard to slip, and nothing tastes as good as the pounds I lost.

Peace all....

Leveling Off... Maintenance is Great

2007-08-18T20:40:00.000-07:00

Hey all....well I have completed 53 weeks on the Jenny Craig program, and it has been a great year! No free cake on my anniversary but...I did get a card from Lurline (my JCC) and plenty of complements.

Oh well once I stopped pouting about "no cake" I sat down and thought how well this program has worked for me. I thought about how much I learn everyday on the JC Chat room, and how much fun it is to encourage others. I have 3x5 cards to keep track of my JC chat pals success, and I am so proud of all of them.

Maintainance is going great! 134.8 seems to be the JC scales favorite number! The past 8 weeks my weight has not fluctuated more than 1 pound. I have ranged from 134.2 to 134.8, and that is exciting. The first 8 weeks on maintenance I found that it was tough to eat all the extra food exchanges (2 extra starches and 3 extra fruits). Can you imagine saying that??? Sometimes I just could not do it...had to skip it. But I never stop eating 6 times a day.

When I started JC I had to set an alarm on my phone to remind me to eat..especially my 10:30Am Yougurt or Milk, and my 2:30 Fruit or JC Snack, but now my bodies clock tells me when it is time!

So I am happy, but not complacent! I at this point religiously journal all my food eaten, and make hash marks to be sure I eat all my food. I still buy JC desserts, and snacks, and there is always a package of JC dressing in my purse. I still eat a huige salad everyday for lunch, and still smother all meals with unlimited non-starchy veggies! These things my friends have become part of my lifestyle.

You know what??? One of the benefits of maintenance is those extra starches...tonight I had a SF A&W Rootbeer Float with Dryers Slow Churned SF/LF vanilla ice cream. OMG you would have thought it was a sin....it was soooooooooooooooo good.

I was thinking as I ate it..."Bless me Father for I have sinned...it has been one year since my last Root Beer Float" but then I realized this was ALLOWED! The Diet A&W is FREE, and the 1/2 C of SF/LF Icecream = 1 Starch! Hell....Life is great!

My daughter Kari went to San Diego for some well deserved R&R, so Panga (Tom) and I (bammah) had two of our four grandsons for the evening. I am behind the camera...but we all had fun in the pool. Even hayden who usually runs for the hills at the sight of water, decided it was okay! They had a blast!

Well what else is new? The next blog will come on the road in our motorhome. We are heading out to greener pastures literally! Wisconsin and Minnesota in the motohome, and towing the Harleys on our vacation. Family & Fun! Yeah...I'll make the next pix one of me on my Heritage Softail.

Well I better get back to work...so I can leave for vacation worry free! See you in a week or so.

My favorite things about JC

2007-08-06T19:11:00.000-07:00

When the fat rolls,
When the pants pinch,
When I'm feeling sad, I simply remember my favorite JC and then I don't feel so bad.

Fruit on JC Lemon Cake
All my friends on JC Chat
Sharing my story with all that I meet,
Encouraging others to Join JC, while watching their successes along the way.
Learning by Sharing, and Sharing by Caring.

I hope in some little way, this encourages you to become the you you have always wanted to be, and to stay that you once you arrive.

I learned long ago that the teacher is always the biggest learner, so I want to thant you all for teaching me.

I want to share a few motivational quotes with you as well. These are things I live by daily...

" Nothing Ventured Nothing gained, be not afraid to try...
So dream big dreams, reach for the stars, and set your standards high. "
Author Unknown

"Do not follow where the path may lead...
Go instead where there is no path...
and leave a trail."
Author Unknown

"When Faced with a mountain I will not quit...
I will keep on striving until I climb over, find a path through, tunnel underneath or simply stay and turn the mountain into a goldmine - with God's help."
Dr. Robert H. Schuller

The last quote from Dr. Schuller is one of my foundation principles I carry it with me 24/7. The other two I have had framed on my wall since 1984, and read them daily. Visualizing postive messages is a really important part of life goals. As far as JC, having a goal book with words and pictures of clothes, people, things, that you want to accomplish will help you acheive those goals.
Look at them daily, and you will be surprised how quickly they become your reality.

Thanks again for all that I have learned from my JC family and friends. It has been a wonderful year!

362 Days on JC

2007-08-06T19:00:00.000-07:00

Well this is week 51 on Jenny, actually today is my 362nd day on JC! When I weighed in last week I was 134.6, so I was down 2/10 of a lb. Maintainance is really coming into its own, and my weight is hovering right at my 135 goal weight now. Less fluctuation than in the first two months of maintenance.

We will see how this week's weigh in turns out since I was in the Rocky Mountains this past week for 4 days, and ate lots of wierd stuff. Elk, Bison, Lamb, Sturgeon, Sea Bass were all things I had never tried before, and with their various preparations, I am not sure how it will pan out on the scale, but I think I padded them with sufficient salads, water, and veggies to balance it all out.

You know the JC lifestyle is all about making good decisions about portions, and food choices. It is not about denying yourself, but rather rewarding yourself with good health, and a new you!

In case you don't know the pix above is my younger daughter Joanna & I. I am wearing the glasses just in case you could not fuigure that one out!

We were standing at about 13,000 feet elevation, after a 15 minute gondola ride from 7500 ft.

Incredible view isn't it?

Well I will post a few more pix later this week when I get them.

50 Weeks on JC - Wow what a Great Year

2007-07-30T20:46:00.000-07:00

Well Hi there everyone!

I am nearly at one year on Jc, and doing great! My maintenance weight has stayed between 131 and 136, with my current weight at 134.8. I weigh in again this Wednesday, and as of last week had lost even another inch. So....50# and 35 inches.

I wasn't sure if I should put this pix in or not, but it is from my grandsons Bday party, and I chose to wear a bathing suit top. A bit "risque" my daughter said, but goes to show when you loose your weight you don't necessarily loose your boobs!

Speaking of daughters, I thought I would show off my two beautiful girls. My redhead has gone blonde (Joanna, she'll be 28 next month), and my blonde has gone redhead (Kari, she'll be 30 in January)...and no they did not do it to copy each other...they are afterall still SISTERS!

Yeah...I know you are doing the math right now. I will be 52 in November.

Well maintenance is going well. I am finally able to get in all of my starches, and all of my fruits, and my weigh has leveled off. I do still track my food religiously, and make has marks to be sure I eat everything. I beleive it is importnat to track so you know where you need to make adjustments if you need to. I still eat 6 times a day, and still eat tons of veggies, and drink about 2 gals of water a day.

Well good luck all. I will share more later. Hope your summer is going well. I will have some vacation pix to share, and a pix of me on my Harley so come back soon.

My Tattoo

2007-07-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Hi All,

It is hard to describe, so I thought I would just post a pix so you could see it.

BTW...weigh in today +1, weight 136. It is okay thought I think it was water, cuz I was a day early, and I just had drank a 44 oz. tea.

So not to worry.

I had Beef w/ Mashed for Dinner and lots of Green Beans!

MMMMMMM!

My favorite JC meal!

Well Dopey Me... Forgot my Password

2007-07-02T15:06:00.000-07:00

Hi All, Well I finally figured out how to get back in here and update my blog.
I did not realize that my last post had me at -45#. Well I made my goal of 50# (actually 50.4) on April 25th. The pix above is fro a party we had on May 5th. That is me holding the cake. So you all get a back view. I am usually taking the pix, so it is hard to find one with me in it.

I am in my 10th week on JC maintenance, and doing well.
Maintenance is a gradual increase of your daily calories and food exchanges.
I was on 1200 calories while loosing my weight, and now to maintain my weight I have been increased to 1700. Sounds like a big jump huh? Did to me too, but like I said it was gradual so as not to SHOCK the system.
The first week I did 4 days at 1200 cals, and 3 days at 1700 and WI = 134.8 ( so I gained 2/10 of a #)
The next week I did 3 days at 1200 cals, and 4 days at 1700 and WI = 134.8 (no loss/no gain)
The next week I did 2 days at 1200 cals, and 5 days at 1700 and WI = 134.8 (no loss/no gain)
The next week I did 7 days at 1700 and WI = 134.4 (lost 4/10 of a #)
From then on I have been on 1700 cals which in food exchanges is:
7 Starches
6+ Veggies
6 Meats
5 Fruits
3 Milk
3 Fat

I actually in week 7 of maintenance dropped down 132.8, because I was not getting all my food exchanges in. I know this because I keep a log of every meal that I carry in my wallet. It is really important to keep a journal, log, or something to keep you honest. It makes it so much easier to adjust things, if you know what you have done.

As of last WI on July 27, I am once again at goal weight 135.0 because I have been eating all my fruit exchanges.

So maintenance has been a great experience for me.
I log into the JC chat room nearly every night, and try to do all I can to share my knowledge as well as to learn from others.
A big big big benefit of my JC experience has been the friends I have made in the JC chat room.
So If you are Reading this and have never joined us there, come on in, and chat awhile. You will make some fabulous friends, and learn from myself and the other losers.
Take care.
Mary Jo

The Photo that Started me on JC

2007-03-22T20:13:00.000-07:00

July 7, 2006
This is Tom (my hubby of 32 years) and I at my niece EJ & Justin's wedding in Eugene, OR.
This pix was taken with my camera, but when I got the photos I ordered from her professional photographer, I was shocked to see myself at 185# and knew I needed to take control of my weight.

I actually had to run to Wal-Mart that morning, because the outfit I brought to wear for the wedding did not fit, and then I slapped on that gold sweater to hide my chubby arms. What was I thinking? Well of course I thought I looked cute with my new hairdo, and was pleased with the whole ensemble!

You know until you realize you are ready you are not! So thanks EJ & J for giving me the opportunity to see myself with my own eyes.

32 Years and Going Strong

2007-03-22T19:57:00.000-07:00

Well today is my 32nd wedding anniversary. 32 years ago we were just wrapping up the reception at the church hall, and everyone was migrating to my parents house for more merriment. What a great party that was. The weather was alot like it was in Albuquerque today. Rainy in the morning, a little blustery, and then the son began to shine just as the wedding was about to begin. On a JC note I did taste the "free Happy Anniversary Mud Pie" the watress brought us tonight, but for Dinner I had Grilled Halibut, Salad, and Steamed Brocolli & Carrots, so I should survive the week just fine.

On my weigh in this week I stayed at -45#, no loss, no gain. I kind of expected a flat week, since I did attend a St. Patty's day party, and tasted a few chips, a piece of spice cake, and some corned beef. It was also a measure week this week, so I did loose another 1.75 inches so I have now officially lost 30 inches in the past 32 weeks.

This is all very exciting, and my size 4 pants are fitting loose, so I hope the last 5#'s just help me tone up, and keep me where I don't have to go to a special store to find clothes. I guess that would not be a bad thing but I would rather not.

Have a great week. On the home front, I have attached a pix of our construction project. Sunroom (all materials piled up) and Pool (deck poured yesterday and under plastic due to rain).

90% There T-45 and counting.

2007-03-15T19:04:00.000-07:00

This is TODAY! I have lost 45# in the past 31 weeks, and 25.25 inches. I have 5 more to go to get to my goal of 50#. My self imposed target date is April 27, 07 (my husbands birthday).

I wanted to say thank you to my friends Jessamy & LesterLou from the Jenny Craig chat room that shared blogspot with me. I hope I can help others, as I have been helped in the chatroom, and at the Albuquerque (Lomas) Jenny Craig center.

I now have 9 - 5# bags of flour sitting on the small bookcase behind my desk (see above). Each one representing a 5# weight loss. This is my visual reminder of my weight loss, and the white papers taped to the bags are my inches lost. Each yellow ribbon is the length of the inches lost. Lurline gives me those little rewards once a month when we measure.

I am in week 32 now, and so next wednsday we will measure again. So if not before another post to let you know how that goes.

In case you wondered:

I walk, walk, walk. ( I try to do 10,000 steps a day)

How you might ask? I park further away from the door of the store, and walk into the store, mall, etc..., and then I walk briskly though every aisle at least once while shopping or not.

I wear my "light clothes" when I weigh in.

For the first 29 weeks I was wearing the most lightweght size 14 pants that just kept getting looser and looser until they started to fall off.

The last two weeks I have been wearing the most lightweight size 4 pants (see above center photo) I could find.

Regarding weigh in -

don't weigh your self every day.

weigh in the same time of day once a week.

weigh in on the same scale once a week.

and yes...

wear your light clothes even in WINTER

Check out the chatroom at www.jennycraig.com

Everyone there is willing to share their thoughts.

Go when you need to be encouraged, and go when you are encouraged.

Who knows who you will help?

All the Best,

MaryJoNM

Halloween & Almost Half Way There

2007-03-15T18:58:00.000-07:00

Well I was shopping this past weekend and came across this cute little camo outfit, and thought "gee that is what I will wear for halloween.

Since I had lost 23.6# I was willing to wear my t-shirt tucked in, and I could acutally button my jacket.

I am not in the military, but I support and respect the troops that are out there daily fighting for us to be free.

I don't take pictures often, seems as though I am on the taker side of the camera more than the takee, so I had to search to find a pix of me at "almost half way".

I love the Jenny food, I love the support from Lurline my consultant, and I love the way I am looking and feeling.

Thanks Jenny & all.

Harelys in Hawaii

2007-03-09T21:41:00.000-08:00

In Feb 2006 we rented Harley's on Kauai. I am on a Softail, Tom and my sister Mary Lou were on the red Road King behind me.

These jeans are a size 13. 13's and 14's had become the norm. Don't know how the 9's and 10's grew but the pounds have a way of creeping up when you are not looking!

Still more to come. Seems like I am always the one behind the camera, so finding pic is sometimes hard. I have not taken any pix of my self since Halloween 2006, so I guess I better get out the camera huh?

2007-03-09T20:53:00.000-08:00

Well my JC Adventure had yet to begin. This pix is from Feb 2006. I (MaryJo) am on the right. Mary Lou is on the left, and Mom (Helen) is in the middle. We all went to Hawaii. This picture is from a historical sugar mill on Kauai.

When I saw the pix from this trip it did not really shock me, but in July when I attended my neices wedding, and looked at my pix, I knew I was ready to make a commitment to JC, and to myself.

Like most decisions we make in life, it would not mean anything, or be a true decision if I could not admit that I was READY.

So watch for my next blog, and I will post the pix that put me over the top. To you maybe I look fine, I was 5'7 and 185 when I began my JC Adventure. I covinced myself that I was "tall" and I wore it well, but I was not feeling the energy I should have, and I was on the verge of needing meds to control cholesterol and blood pressure. So JC was not just a weight goal but a health goal. See you soon.

MaryJoNM