Cribs Weigh In Wednesday

Hello I'm Lucy and I blog at Charm About You and in the style of MTV Cribs I'm going to show you inside my fridge!

This week I've only managed to lose one more pound, that's a total of 7 pounds since I joined in with Erin. Good but no cigar. I have 17 more to lose before I'll see a figure I can stomach!

So this week I've done what I consider a 'healthy' shop. Mostly lots of veg. After seeing Megan was making some delicious green smoothies, I decided to give them a go - it's basically loads of spinach in a blender with some other stuff!! You can find some great recipes here.

I made mine this morning with spinach, banana, soya milk and some Spiru-tein powder. Do you know, I've not had an energy slump all day, which can only be a good thing :) I also intend to get some ground flaxseed. I do eats seeds but don't think they'd be too nice in a smoothie!

Looks like this will be my new best friend while I'm on a green monster kick:

Don't you just love my marmite tin?!

Here's what my fridge looks like (it doesn't have arrows and words in it obviously I added those):

And then there's the cupboard, this is what it looks like, I have to put food in like this because it's so small! (hidden behind this lot is lentils, little tins of spaghetti hoops and soup):

To stay on track I've also written a weekly menu. This really helps me stay focused and also use up the food that needs eating first so less waste!

There are some really cute free printable menus that you can print out from smitten blog designs, they have other great stuff too!

Sadly my printer has run out of coloured ink so mine is looking a bit sad! You get the idea though:

And with Buffy looking over it too ;)

Admittedly it's not all totally healthy but we eat with the kids so I do pick some simple options, plus it's winter here so there needs to be some comfort!!

I'm also trying to watch my portions - smaller plates and that kind of thing.

I also intend to do more of these -

(Not Nemo!!) I'm aiming to do pilates everyday, if you want please harass me about that!!

So in the spirit of keeping positive and healthy here's the happiest song I know - let's dance!





If that's just a bit too happy clappy for you, after you've linked up go and read my rant about word verification!! (then go smile and watch the Muppet movie!)

Weigh In Wednesday - Day 43

Hellooooo.  How is everyone going?  Well, I hope.  I must say - I am GRRRREAT!  After weeks of ooginess I am finally feeling back to my normal self and have managed to get back into life - work, friends, gym etc.  Yippee.

And, if that news isn't good enough then how about this...

I'm over half way to my goal weight!  Excuse me while I disappear for a happy dance.  And maybe some jumping on the couch.  Ala Tom Cruise.

Ok, enough of that.  Back to business.   As per last week's post, on Saturday I started The Scarsdale Diet, which is an easy-to-follow 14 day program that I like to use as a kick-start for weightloss.  Honestly, I do not adhere to it to the last letter (tsk tsk) as I will make myself a varied salad when the menu might specify just tomatoes.  I guess that I mainly use it all as a guide to give me a kick-start back into the whole swing of things... whilst also allowing for some (minimal) adjustments to make the whole ordeal a little more realistic and, thus, more of a long-term lifestyle change.  Well, that's my story and I'm sticking to it.  ;)

Time for the stats?  Are you ready?  I am!

Weight Loss Goal: -10kgs (-22lbs)
Week's Loss: -1.9kgs (4.19lbs)
Total Loss: -5.6kgs (12.35lbs)
Distance to Goal: 4.4kgs (9.70lbs)
Week's Gym Visits:2
Total Time Exercising: 2hrs
Alcohol Units Consumed: Nil
Date of Last Alcoholic Drink: 31st December 2011
Highlight of the Week: Saying no to the offer of churros and chocolate.  It didn't even hurt!

Happy dance.  Happy dance!  It is such a nice feeling to have a good week.  Getting back to the gym has been t.o.u.g.h. but I am trying not to push myself too much.  I might have slipped a little bit whilst being sick but I can still acknowledge that I am much better than I was just 2 little months ago.  I now am aiming to get back to the point where the treadmill and I are friends again.  Not there yet!

After all the excitement, please excuse me while I dampen the mood, just a tad.  As I'm sure you are all aware, Whitney Houston passed during this week.  As with the loss of anyone, particularly someone who has gone at a young age, it is time for tears but also time to realise that life is short.  We have to make the best with what we are given and live life to the full.  So, as a tribute to Ms Houston, this week's clip is the amazingly motivational and beautiful, Step By Step.



Over to you.

E.

Sending Some Love

Yes, it is Valentine's Day.  Blah blah blah.  ;)

More importantly, though, today is the day that the winner of my giveaway is announced.  I'm sure you've all been keeping your fingers and toes crossed all week.  Afterall, we all need a bit of fugly in our lives.

Firstly, I would like to extend a big, huge, massive THANK YOU to everyone who entered... and for all the birthday love.  And, of course, an even bigger, huger, massiver (yes, it is a word) THANK YOU to the lovely Lucy who hosted the amazing success that was the Fugly Fabric Party.  You go girl.  :)

Now... onto the lucky winner.  Unfortunately my IT guru, who is amazing at all things geek-related, is (once again) away so I'm just going to ask for a bit of trust here.  For the draw I have used random.org but can not for the life of me remember how to publish the picture (and proof).  Sorry.  I promise it is all legit.  Anyhoo...

Mr Random selected comment... #9!  Winner, winner, chicken dinner!  Congratulations Celtic Thistle.  I have emailed you.  I can't wait to see what you do with these... err... lovelies so please be sure to keep us all posted.  :)

Ok, I know I brushed over it earlier... but, honestly, Valentine's Day is really, really, really hard to ignore.  It is EVERYWHERE.  Flowers, balloons, hearts, chocolates, cutesy little teddy bears etc etc etc.  Now, don't get me wrong, I am definitely not anti-Valentine's, but the whole out-on-displayness of it all is not my kind of thing.  When it comes to love I am quite private and prefer to keep my sentiments between myself and my partner.  Infact, most "romantic" gestures that seem to be featured repeatedly on this very day, make me want to gag.  Public declarations of love?  Shudder.  Flowers delivered to work?  Cringe.  Being proposed to infront of a crowd or on a tv program?  Vomit.

BUT... I realised long ago that I am in the minority when it comes to what constitutes romance so I do not begrudge or judge anyone else's special moments, particularly on a day that is all about love.  So, however you choose to spend your time today, whether alone, with a special someone, or with a group of friends and/or family, I honestly, truly hope that you have an amazing day.  Celebrate your way... and enjoy every second.

E.

WIP - A Day Late

I realise that it is now Thursday in Western Australia... but just for today, I'm going to pretend that I'm on New York time and link up to Lee's WIP Wednesday.  Yay.

SUMMER HOUSE BOXED IN QUILT
First thing I've worked on this week is the much neglected Summer House quilt - now completely pieced!  This baby currently measures 72" x 48" but I'm tossing up whether I should add sashing or not.  Probably, yes.  Realistically this is just going to sit untouched for another few months, though, so until then, here is a sneak peak.

This quilt has been made with a Summer House by Lily Ashbury layer cake and is based on the Boxed In Quilt tutorial.  It was actually very simple to put together, I was just lazy and made it drag on and on and on and on.  ;)

CLASSY CURVY HANDBAG
Next is something I am excited about and will hopefully have completed very soon.  It is the beginning of a new bag - for moi!  I've been meaning to update my crusty old thing for months now but haven't got around to it.  But, now that my Mum is making noises about me making her a bag I figured I'd better have a trial-run first, just so I didn't completely stuff it up.  So...

I absolutely adore that Silent Cinema print so am hoping this comes off as planned.  Really, I shouldn't be too worried as the Classy Curvy Handbag pattern I'm using is amazingly detailed (with full colour pics!) and very easy to follow.  She'll be right.  :)

SLEEPOVER PJ PANTS
Next is a bit of cuteness - some army pj pants for my nephew, to match the Sergeant Sebastian softie I made months and months ago (oops!).

These are mostly finished, just a few little touches here and there to finalise.  I used the Sleepover Pajamas pattern by Oliver+S, which was mostly straightforward, though I did have a few issues with the waistband.  Thankfully the elastic pulled it all together and managed to hide some of those problems.  Now I just have to work out whether I am brave enough to tackle the top too, or whether I'll "cheat" and just add some applique to a pre-bought long sleeve shirt.  Hmm.  I have to admit that the latter option is definitely appealling!  ;)

CIRCLE ZIP EARBUD POUCH
I found these pieces whilst rummaging through a box in my sewing room - all cut and ready for me to make another earbud pouch, as pouch Erin's fabulous tutorial.

The fabric is, of course, from the adorable Prince Charming collection by Tula Pink.  I love that frog!  I actually prepared these weeks ago but for some reason didn't then take the extra 15 minutes needed to sew it all together.  Doh!  Oh well, maybe this weekend - after I finish my bag!

That's pretty much it for my week.  Not too shabby, really.  Before you leave, though, don't forget to check out my "fugly" giveaway - to be drawn next Tuesday.  Good luck!

E.
 

I've made the deadline and have linked into WIP Wednesday over at Freshly Pieced. What a popular party - over 130 people have turned up to show off their works in progress. Go and check them out.

Weigh In Wednesday - Day 36

Unfortunately I'm still unwell and, therefore, still not really getting anywhere.  Yesterday I had the joy of a lengthy visit with the doctor so hopefully things will be on the up and up from here on out.  Either way, I'm still slowly plodding along.  And I honestly mean "slowly plodding" - if you'd seen my walks around the block you would have laughed.  Oh well, some movement is better than nothing and I'm determined to stay on track, as best I can.  Let's hope this coming week will be a goodun though!

That's all I can really say about that.  BUT... you guys are awesome!  I was amazed last week reading through everyone's links - what an inspiration you all are.  Fantastic!  I'm starting to think that I need to share the love and get some of you to guest post - to inspire us and others.  Really, I am that impressed.  So, let me know if you're up for it and we'll sort something out.

Anyhoo... onto my stats...

Weight Loss Goal: -10kgs (-22lbs)
Week's Loss: -0.2kgs (0.44lbs) - yes, that is where I was 2 weeks ago.
Total Loss: -3.7kgs (8.16lbs)
Distance to Goal: 6.3kgs (13.89lbs)
Week's Gym Visits: 0 (umm)
Total Time Exercising: 2hrs 30mins - comprised of numerous "granny" walks
Alcohol Units Consumed: Nil
Date of Last Alcoholic Drink: 31st December 2011
Highlight of the Week:  This is a toughie as not much has been achieved.  But, in all honesty, I am actually stoked that I have lost the weight I have.  I recognize it as a start to a new, healthier Erin and I am excited about losing more and more (and fitting back into all those "old" clothes!).  So, YAY, for positive thinking!

After crunching the numbers, though, it now looks very unlikely that I will reach my goal weight  in the timeframe originally specified as, realistically, I probably won't lose 6.3kgs ( 13.89lbs) in the next 3.5wks.  Regardless, I am determined to keep on keeping on, with the aim to lose as much as I can (and not beat myself up about it if I don't reach that elusive goal).

That said, I think it is about time I began dieting (as opposed to just "watching" what I eat) and start an actual program.  In the past, I've found the Scarsdale Diet to be a great kickstart - the 14 day program is do-able and user-friendly.  This, of course, is not a long-term solution but I will be using it to get back into the swing of things as I start to get serious.  Can you believe that I am actually looking forward to this?  Kinda weird but I'll work with it.  :)

As I could do with a laugh this week (and what better way than to giggle over others' misfortunes?), today's clip is a loving tribute to one of my personal nemises - the exercise ball.  I suggest you don't have a drink whilst watching this... or your screen may end up a little wet.  ;)



Amusing, no? At least I have now filled my country quota... so you shouldn't be subjected to any more thigh-slapping tunes.  This time I do promise.  ;)

One more little thing before I go - don't forget to check out my birthday giveaway.  And then trot off to see what everyone else has on offer for Lucy's Fugly Fabric Party.  :)

OK... time for you to inspire me.  Link up and spread the news.  I love this part!

E.

Did Someone Say "Party"?

I wasn't going to announce this, preferring instead to let the day roll on by like any other... BUT... as Lucy rudely chose today as the most fitting for her Fugly Fabric Party, due to it's own inherent ugliness, I couldn't sit idly by.  You see, Tuesday 7th February 2012 is rather a special moment in the history of Erin - it is my 30th birthday.  Yep, I am officially saying goodbye to my twenties and hello to terrific, fabulous, awesome thirty.  Rather than dreading this moment, as I know so many do, I am actually super-excited about embracing this new chapter in my life.  Bring it on, I say!

At this point it would've probably been the done thing to include a baby pic or the like (you know, to prove I was little and cute at some point in the past) but I can't find one anywhere (and that is saying something because I am currently at my parents'...).  So, instead, this photo of me totally rocking that bonnet will have to suffice.

Me, 23 months

Anyway, to celebrate this not-so-fugly occassion I am giving one lucky reader a Happy Birthday present from me to you.  Someone will receive not one but TWO charm packs made especially for the Fugly Fabric Party.  Fun!


Yes, that is DS - soooo not fugly!


I would like to think that they are largely comprised of un-fugly fabric but each to their own, really.  These things are a matter of personal taste afterall.  Before you enter, though, just be warned that they are an eclectic mix of scraps and not a beautifully sorted arrangement.  I may have spent hours rummaging, cutting and ironing but not a single second went into colour matching or the like.  So, to give you a very rough idea, here is an example of a few of the fabrics -

Well there you have it.  An opportunity to win eighty 5" squares of assorted fabric scraps, all of quilting-weight cotton, of course.  It's really a once in a lifetime kind of deal.  No, seriously, it is that mediocre great.  ;)

Are you interested?  Yes?  YES?  Yay!  Then here is how to enter...

Chance 1)  Leave a comment on this post.  Bonus points to those who wish me a Happy Birthday.  Actually... that was a total lie and a shameless attempt to get some well wishes.  ;)

Chance 2) Leave a comment letting me know that you are a follower - new or old!

Mr Random will be picking a winner next Tuesday, 14th February at midday, my time (+8.0 GMT).  Everyone is welcome to enter, including international readers, but please, please, please ensure you have an open profile with access to an email address or you leave your contact details in your comment.  NO email address = no valid entry.  Harsh, I know, but thems the rules so please double check.  Thanks.  :)

Good luck!

E.

I, of course, am linking this up to Lucy's Fugly Fabric Party post... so be sure to jump across to see what everyone else has on offer.  You might get to buy, swap or win.  Enjoy.  

UPDATE - this giveaway is now closed.  Thank you to everyone who entered.  :)

TGIFF - It's Here!

Welcome to this week's Thank Goodness It's Finished Friday, hosted by... moi!  If you are new to my blog please feel free to pull up a seat and make yourself at home.  I am delighted that you all could make the trip. :)


As Laura has been having a few sewing-related issues of late, she asked if I would step in to host this week.  After umming and ahhing and generally thinking "Um... yeah... no" I figured it would be the perfect push to get one of my many WIPs finished so here I am, happily able to show off a completed project.  So what did I manage to get done?  Well... how about a cute, itty bitty little quilt for Kat's Blanket of Love campaign.

When I first came across Blankets of Love a few months ago, I immediately jumped on the bandwagon.  The premise is simple - make a small quilt (20" - 25" square) for a premature baby in hospital.  What a great idea!  To encourage donations from all over the world, Kat even accepts tops, backs or even just blocks (great use for those odd bee blocks you might never use!) - and then she completes the quilt ready for donation.  How awesome is she?! 

As I live in the same city as Kat, though, I agreed to donate a completed quilt - this time for a boy.  Many of these fabrics were left over from my first ever quilt so after rummaging through my stash and playing around with layout, I decided on this simple 5x5 square pattern.  As you can imagine, this came together extremely quickly and was a largely stressfree project.

I say "largely" stressfree due to a few issues with my new machine, Laurie, while we got used to quilting together.  In the end I settled on a compromise and just went with my usual fallback, organic line quilting.  I might need to have a bit more of a play on scraps before tackling my next quilting project.

Speaking of the next project, I already have another similar top pieced and ready to go so fingers crossed I have two completed quilts ready for the next round of Blankets of Love.  Then... I might need to start working on a girly design to even things up a bit.  ;)

If you too would like to donate to this worthwhile cause, click on the button below to find out more.

Wait.  STOP!  Before you do that though... don't forget to link up your awesome finishes for this week.  I know I'm excited to see what everyone has been working on.

E.

Weigh In Wednesday - Day 29

WOW.  Can you believe that four weeks have now passed since Weigh In Wednesday began?  Crrrrraziness!  Of course, it also means that I am pretty much half-way through (time-wise) so... I really, really, really wanted to be able to share with you the fantastic news of -5kg today but, alas, that would just be a big, fat lie.  Sad face!

This week more sickness and even more grumpiness (I promise, I'm not always such a sour cow... actually you may need to ask my friends about that...) got the better of me and somehow I managed to put my hands on icecream, pizza, garlic bread, biscuits, chocolate, lemonade etc etc etc.  Never fear, though, it wasn't all consumed at once but it was consumed.  And consumed.  And consumed.  Whoops.

So, luckily for me (and you) my lovely, live-in Superhero is still away saving the planet (or at least a small part of it) so I, once again, have no photos to scare you with this week.  But I do have the all-telling stats.

Weight Loss Goal: -10kgs (-22lbs)
Week's Loss: +0.2kgs (0.44lbs) - yes, that is a gain.  No surprises there!
Total Loss: -3.5kgs (7.72lbs)
Distance to Goal: 6.5kgs (14.33lbs)
Week's Gym Visits: 3 (better!) - plus, well, pretty much nothing else
Total Time Exercising: 2hrs 0mins
Alcohol Units Consumed: Nil
Date of Last Alcoholic Drink: 31st December 2011
Highlight of the Week:  Realising that I fit back into a pair of shorts that had been previously relegated to the rather large and depressing "I can't wear that" pile.

Um yeah.  Let's move straight on, shall we?  This week's clip is to get me up to, well, move that body. 


And, after that classic piece of musical genius... I am... completely lost for words.  Hands up who wants ONJ back.  I know you do!  ;)


Now, before you can link up and share your week's adventures on the weigh in train, I would just like to shamelessly remind you all that this Friday is my turn to host TGIFF - so please be sure to pop back then and see what I've managed to rustle up for show and tell.  Thanks!

Time for me to shush now and pass around the microphone.  Link up with your tales of triumph (or woe) and please, please, please be sure to visit each other and shout words of encouragement.  We're in this together afterall.  Over to you!

E.