Chuckie's Extreme MASSIVEMeltdown :: Weight Loss Blog

Feb 28, 2008

Guess what?  I can cross my legs!!!! I discovered that I could do this about two weeks ago and it seems to be my favorite way of sitting now. I can remember if I wanted to cross my leg, which I knew I could not do, but if I would try I would have to reach down and lift the crossing leg with both hands to get it over the knee. Now I can just swing my leg up and over. Two years ago I was the person who would be having to sit down on a chair by the kitching sink in order to get the dishes done. I can remember clear as if it was today that I cried at how sad life was this way and what would my future hold becoming less and less independent. So this has certainly changed .. I'm crossing my legs now.

I'm having a little trouble with my commutes home from work and being drawn to an old habit of munching along the way. I had started to carry a bag of those little carrots to nibble on but forgot to take some today. I also have thought of digging out some audio books to listen to on my drives to make constructive use of the hour drive each way.

Off to bed now so I can get up for my swimfit before going to work. Yeah crossing legs >>> wow>>

February 18, 2008

Well, what a wonderful way to spend family day by starting at the pool with my hour workout. It certainly gets the day off on the right foot. I totally took myself out of my comfort zone today. My legs are quite ugly from some red and purple discolation on the front of my calves, still some swelling from the circulation issues and I don't usually let myself be seen for very long periods. I was doing my running in the pool and the nerve came over me to stop over and sit with my lifeguard friend before leaving. She was not on duty at the time and was sitting in the patio chairs on the side of the pool. I walked out of the pool and marched over to sit in the chair. That I did not worry that I would not fit or that I would make the legs break is amazing. The impressed expression on my lifeguard's face was nice to see. We sat and talked and I've asked her to set me up a program for the next 6 months to work out in the gym, the pool and at home for the times that I can't get to the gym. I have re measured myself today and will weigh myself tomorrow. It is my goal to reboot myself for some serious time "about me".  Later I went to a friends for tea and needed to go up the stairs to see something, and I strove to walk up and down one step after another and not the usual one step at a time. I did it twice!!!!.  Wow. the little things we take for granted.  It's hard to change our ways .. and I may not be perfect every step of the way .. but I'm sure worth it .. and every effort I make.

February 16,2008

Yeah, the weekend is here! What a long week this has been. I've woken up on my own before my alarm because I'm so eager for this day to get started. I'm going for my morning work out at the YMCA this morning. It's been almost two weeks since I've been able to get there and I'm really feeling the effects. Movement, physical activity or full fledged exercising is sooo good for the mind, the soul and our entire lives. I'm considering today a new day just as every day should be. Sit down take a few minutes to myself, plan my day of a happy balance, chores, responsibilities, personal development, physical activity and fun. The things that I have been doing since losing weight are amazing and I keep stepping outside the box.

That's it for now ... have to get this day going. Make a plan and get going!!!

Today, I'm going to do half an hour of deep water running with my water weights and half an hour of aquafit exercises. Then a nice hot shower. Then I'm off to meet with friends for breakfast at which I plan on having oatmeal, fruit and some yogurt. I need to make sure to get the calcium, fruit, fibre and protein. Later I have a business meeting and then some time to spend on projects. I really try to keep a balance in life as well as food and exercise. Journalling and reading are two things I need to focus more attention on.

A couple of weeks ago I had an AHA, or first moment when I straddled up to the bar when I was out at a function. Normally I would either know I could not lift myself up to the bar stool or would be wiggling and struggling and would not want anyone to see me. We were at our usual Sunday brunch spot and it was superbowl Sunday so there was no one there at noon. I took the opportunity to give getting on the stool a try .. and it worked. I got down to move our stuff over from the booth and got back up on the stool. Wow!! I'm normal. Being at the bar means more interactivity with people and conversations rather than being at a booth or table and people think you want to be left alone.  Last week at another function I just went to settle at the bar, before joining the function tables. 

February 13, 2006

Well, I can't believe how long it's been since I've taken the time for myself to write. It is very much in my best interest to commit to writing because it does the soul, mind and health good to get our thoughts out in writing.  So many thoughts can go swimming around in our minds that can actually make me confused and sick.

I have to say that I'm so very proud and in aw over my friend Charle's and how he's staying focussed on making a difference to people given what he has happening in his life. You truly are an amazing soul. I truly miss our support groups that we use to host and would certainly welcome being a part of one again. If anyone is interested to buddy up let me know.

I'm totally frustrated with the dose of winter that we are having here in Toronto. This has really put a damper into my regular work out time. I have such a long commute as mentioned in an earlier posting as I drive from North York to Mississauga and arrive home at around 6:00. SInce I get up in the morning at 4:00 I usually go to bed by around 8:00 the latest. I usually do not engage in very much in the evening and had been doing my exercise routine before work in the morning at 5:30 - 6:30. I have a winter driving phobia and have been having to get driven to work which means getting to work for 5:00 to allow my partner and chauffeur to get to work himself. What difference to the mind, body and soul not having exercised in over a week is. I can so feel the change in my joints. I tried to go over to the gym the other evening which has been a goal of mine for a bit .. and I was not able to find a parking spot after waiting and driving around for at least 20 minutes.  Although I could feel totally defeated I turned my thoughts to .. I tried!!!! This left me not feeling defeated which as we know can really send us for a tailspin.  Tomorrow is suppose to be a no snow day so I'm off to the pool in the morning. Wow... it will feel like heaven.

I'm becoming a volunteer at the YMCA where I work out. I've chosen to help out in a section that will put me interchanging with members, talking and also in the smaller gym area. See I have a bit of a plan. I can be a little sneaky sometimes to try and make sure I get doing what I need to or that I've been procrastinating about. I am going to monitor the small gym area for the members.. who don't put things back, or need help .. in case there is a danger or risk. This will also be done a couple of evenings a week and on weekends and will get me into a "gym" working out myself also.

Food wise I'm doing quite well. I'm still learning to eat healthier and feeling great.

I best get myself off to bed so I'm in shape for the pool in the morning.

Take care .. and remember to be good to yourself first!!!!... You have to come first before anyone else. This way you can be there for them in the long run.

Feb 12 - Day 195

Folks...i'm back! LA was awesome, despite the rain, I stil managed to chill and enjoy myself. I did tons and tons of walking. I would hike the Runyan Canyon every morning for a couple of hours. It was kinda muddy, but all was cool - just wore extra socks. Well, the Dr. Phill 1000th Episode aired yesterday and 1001 aired today. I was fortuante to appear on the same day as Oprah. What a show it was. Now I can talk about it!! It was a dream come true seeing Oprah, I have to admit, but Oprah was one of my role models growing up...I'm talking the heavy Oprah. I use to say to myself, "wow, people are listening to her." Just because someone is fat doesn't mean they should be shut out..I totally respect that woman for breaking down barriers and changing the way we watch tv. It was a delight listening to her and Phil talk for about an hour. There was some major editing done...the end result of me was basically two words "151 lbs"....lol! That wasin response to Phil congratulating me on losing 150lbs...I just HAD to correct him - love doing that! They also showed the clip I filmed at Extreme Fitness and my previous show's clip...all in all I had about 1 minute worth of air time - not bad, I guess...lol. There were some guests that spoke when we taped, but we not aired - edited out! There is only so much they can fit into an hour. Oh, and if you're wondering - the prize bag was AWESOME! I was a very generous uncle and gave the diamond bracelet to my dear neice who turned 16 - I told her to consider this her wedding and graduation gift! I'm definitely going to go back in the summer and take my nephew and niece with me.

The good news is that I made it home safely and in one peice..the only thing broken was one of my waterford crystal glasses - oh well...I was really really looking forward to using it for my protein shakes! Also, this is the first "vacation" I come back from and have actually lost weight! With all of the hiking and working out at the gym, I have come back fit as a fiddle. I was also eating very healthy and always on the go..oh, I had to buy another suitcase to carry all of the clothing I bought! The new me just loves shopping - I love the feeling of just being able to pick something from the rack, trying it on and it fitting! I came bac with two suits, 3 pants, 4 sweaters and a pair of shoes....oh Outlet Malls!!!

In terms of what I've been doinglately at the gym, well, I've been working out pretty hardcore with weights. I'm kinda up there when it comes to bench pressing and lifting...I have gradually increased the amount of weight. My arms are always pumped! I love the feeling. Gota work on the gut area now...this has become my trouble area. Ever since focusing on doing weighted situps, my core has become prety solid, but my stomach feels like it's being pushed out. I've been told to keep with the cardio - which is prescisely what I am doing.

I'm taking my multivitamin still. I've run out of my fish oils and need to restock.

Water - well, put it this way - the rain in LA inspired me to drink more! I'm at about 15 bottles a day. While i was in LA I ordered iced tea from some restaurants if I was eating out...guess what? The automatically give you unsweetened tea!! that was probably about the only healthy thing I noticed in restaurants. I still can't believe the portion sizes south of the border!

Tomorrow I'm doing Canada AM live..should be interesting. They will be interviewing me. I've also suggested starting a National Weight Loss Challenge. I'll let you all know what comes of it.

Alright..gotta go and get some sleep....need the energy for tomorrow am toshovel the white stuff out there. Did I tell you it's frick'n freezing up here!!!!

Take care my friends..keep on moving!

Charles

Here's a pic of me and a few of the guests at the 1000th Episode. Hey, what do you think about my suite? Brenda Sue, Phil's sister reccommended the colours - good choice. Thanks Brenda Sue! In the pic are Holly (Desperate House Wife fromthe OC - recovered alcholic), Judy (lost 80lbs) and Monika (lost 55lbs and was also on Extreme Makeover). I shared my dressing room with the three of them - lol!

Day - Who's Counting!!!! I'm in Hollywood!

Hey Folks...it's been a while,sorry. I'm down in LA enjoying the rain! Yes, it's been raining non stop here. I think I actually see the sun trying to come out. I've been here just over a week. I'm leaving on Saturday. I taped a show with Dr. Phil on Friday - went very well! You have to tune in on Feb 11 and 12. It was his 1000th episode...lotta suprises that I cannot spill..so tune in. One thing for sure is that he caught me off guard and asked me a question, I answered, but felt like a deer in a headlight...lotta pressure as there were huge celebs around me...kinda nerve racking. Anyhow, all went well.

I've actually been going to the gym everyday...I'm working out at aplace called LA Fitness - AWESOME!!! I've been making friends with a few actors and waiters/waitresses...they all work out during the day.I've been jogging and walking the hollywood hills, despite the rain. I went hiking on Rodeo drive..lol. I was wearing a brand new pair of shoes - OUCH!!! I'm nursing a few blisters as we speak,not fun. I've been eating at this newplace called Fresh and Ready...pretty cool stuff there. Premade food that is healthy and cheap...quality in comparison to Whole Foods...lotta healthy menu items there.

I've been drinking loads and loads of water and have been taking my vitamins. I didn't bring my fish oils though, as customs arepretty strict...and I haven't bought any down here.

I'm off to the gym now and will kep you all posted with my whereabouts...I'll be posting pictures soon.

Cheers my friends...and if you have tried emailing me, I will respond next week...web access is limited.

Charles

January 6 - Day 159

HAPPY NEW YEAR MY FRIENDS!! Now that we all survived the holidays, it's back to the regular grind. I've been at it even through the holidays. I made sure I worked out everyday, be it a walk or the gym. I've been keeping pretty strict to my program. I do have to say though that this is the first year that sweets have not been as tantalizing to me as before. I'm at the point now where I don't even crave them. Mind you, I did have a few, but nothing insane. I use to eat sweets with a sense of guilt - how horrible!! Eating food should be fun and guilt free. Also, I noticed that this year friends and family did not ask if "it was ok"to eat whatever it was on the table. It's crazy, once people around you know you are watching what you eat and trying to make healthy decisions, it's like posting a label on your forehead - "pick on me, please." I rmember a couple of years ago when  had lost all of the weight, I hated social functions because every morsel I took was accompanied with dialogue - lol. Anyhow, it's a new year now and I think we should keep on being healthy. I'm not a believer of new year's resolutions, as some of you already know..so, I'm not even going to ask if you're still keeping them - lol. I do have to make an observation though -the gym was jam packed this week with a lot of new faces...I actually had to wait for some equipment - let's see how this lasts. It's greatthat folks are getting out and trying to make a difference - hope it lasts longer than a week!! Kudos to you all who have been maintaining a healthy lifestyle - keep it up!

Last night I hung out with a few close friends at a friends farm up north. I almost hit a dear on a backroad. I was traumatized - scary stuff I tell you. Looking back though, my reaction was kinda funny. I played WII for the first time ever. What a great concept. Video games are not longer sedentary...I was bowling and i tell you, I was almost breaking a sweat. At last, technology is finally getting smarter and heathier - lol.

The weather has been pretty frigid these past few weeks, though apparently we're in store for a winter heatwave over the next few days. That's good, cuz I'm looking to get back into my walks. I'm looking forward to the hot weather in LA in 2 weeks...have to start shopping for warm weather clothing, as the clothing I had this past summer are too big and loose. I've dropped a couple of pant sizes and one shirt size since training with Jody - which I am still doing - he isn't going anywhere!!

OK - food wise I'm doing great...again, lower carb and higher protein - every day. Every 7 days I do a no carb day to boost up my system. I've been drinking alot of juices lately - pure juices...specifically wheat grass juice. My dad buys it by the gallon and this stuff is good for you. I have a cup a day...gives me that extra boost I need in the morning. In terms of supplements, I'm still taking my daily multivitamin and fish oils. I'm going to start taking the green tea extract again. I actually ran out, but mind you, I've been drinking the real thing lately just to keep warm. I've been drinking lots of water too.

Re: exercise, I've changed my schedule so that I work out in the mornings and every other night I do cardio at night. Makes a big difference forme working out in morning...definitely has been a factor in shedding 12 lbs last month. I'm weight training with Jody 3 days a week and I tell you, my pipes arelookng mighty fine...but it's my mid section that is stil bothering me. I need to focus on this a little more and do more ab exercises.

Alright my friends, some of you have emailed me as a result of the peice that ran on me on CP24 last week. I promise I will respond to your emails this week. It's been kinda hectic lately at work and because of the holidays. I look forward to hearing from more of you and forming great friendships!

Until next time, keep on moving!!!

Cheers
Charles

PS. Here is a pic of me and my friends Laurel, Justin and Gayle last night. We ended up going to the casino...don't ask!! lol...

December 27 - Day 149

Merry Christmas Folks!! Hope you survived the turkey dinners and sweets galore! It's been a few weeks since my last post...still bulking up here and trimming the waist. Amazing how I'm keeping it off despite the stuffing - lol. I made it to the gym yesterday and today...they were closed on Christmas. that's ok though, I went for a 2 hour walk in the cold...lol.

I've been feeling great lately...starting to settle into a new wardrobe yet again. Been eating a regular dose of protein and low low carbs...especially now at christmas...can you beleve I have not even had one candy cane??? I did have a few peices of fruit cake, but trust me, nothing compared to what I use to eat before. For Christmas dinner, my dad made whole wheat pizza!! I'm glad I'm rubbing off on him.

I'm looking forward to next month...I'm off to LA to "expose" my book and do a few media things...looking forward to the warm weather and shorts!!! I've already gone online and searched the closest gyms - lol. I plan on going on a coupleof road trips and chillax...catching up with a few friends as well.

I sincerely do hope you all are having a great holiday....have some sweets, but not too many - ok? Make sure you fit in that walk after dinner...better yet, do the dishes, mop the floor and run up the stairs!

I'll be posting soon..until we chat keep fit and enjoy life!

C.

December 11 - Day 133

Unbelievable!!! I have finally gotten over the plateau...I'm happy to say that after 4 months of rigourous training with Jody and a tolta body transformation I have shed 11 lbs in the past 2 weeks. I was trying to figure out why the sudden burst and I concluded that due to switching my work out time to the morning as oppose to late at night and keeping with a higher protein program allowed me to finally lose the weight. Mind you, I'm pretty toned now and my muscles have turned into a fat burning machine. I'm actually doing less cardio as well, which is weird.

I'm still taking my daily fish oils and supplements...up high in protein. Actually enjoying the less carb lifestyle as well. Drinking tons of water too. I've also upped my green tea intake to about 5 glasses a day...cut down on the coffee too.

The weather here in Toronto is pretty crisp...very cold out there and it's suppose to rain ice this afternoon - joy! Work has been pretty busy lately as I have imposed deadlines for Dec. 21 so that we all have a christmas and close the office for the holidays. I'm finding time to go to the gym as well...spending more time in the steam room due to the cold weather (mmm....maybe that's helped with the weight loss....mmm).

Anyhow..I should get going...will be in touch soon my friends. I do hope this holiday season is finding you well.

C.

November 19 - Day 111

Howdy folks...feeling great. My mid-section is firming up. Still seeing results. My legs are pretty firm. I've been keeping up with my cardio and weight lifting. My knee has started becoming sore. I ran/jogged outside on Saturday and I think my legs are not use to that. It is much more difficult jogging outside than it is on the treadmill. I've scheduled a massage for later on today and will ask to have my legs focused on. My calves are pretty tight and kinda sore this morning. I didn't do much at the gym yesterday. I guess it generally takes a couple of days for the pain to show up after a huge work out.

Nutrition wise I've been doing well. Been doing more carb-low days. Am getting use to that mind you. My protein is also high on a daily basis - about 170gms. I'm still taking my supplements - fish oils, green tea extracts and greens plus in the morning. Water - well, this is where I need to improve. I drink about 8 bottles a day...I would like to up that to 12 a day, especially when I work out.

I'm meeting with Jody this afternoon...we're taking measurements. I'll keep you posted. I had to bail on him on Friday due to a family emergency, so I'm sure he'll whip me into shape today. Even though I may not get to go for a training session, chances are that I'll still make it into the gym for cardio at night.

Work is pretty busy - actually - VERY busy. I do make time to go to the gym too...it's all about balance. Balance is something that I'm getting good at...with family, work and myself - it's definitely important to balance things out, as I know for sure that if I focused solely on family I'd be too consumed and pretty fucked up. If I focused on work, I'd be insane! It's not worth throwing away all I have done for teh interest of others. It's crucial that I place myself first and foremost...responsibilities at times get in the way, however, it's important to focus and balance. Combine balance and focus with determination, and I tell you my friend - the the formula to success - trust me.

Alrighty, I have a meeting to go to shortly...I will chat with you soon. Good luck with the holiday preplanning and to all my US Friends - Happy Thanksgiving.

Cheers

C.

PS. here is me at my desk thinking about what to write...oh, my goatee is back - it mysteriously dissappeared last week - see the second photo ...lol.