Getting Back Upstairs

Hi Everyone! :)

I must say it's been too long since my last post... almost 2 weeks :(
With the 12 week challenge over, and summer vacation still going strong, I've taken the last 12 days to spend some extra time with my family and doing some much needed purging! WOW, does it feel great!!!

I have been on a mission as of late, going through every room, drawer, closet etc. and sorting, donating and throwing away all those things that are not needed in our home.
It constantly surprises me how changing my outlook on my health has affected so many other facets of my life. It means so much more to me to enjoy the simple things, time with family and friends and my new project... re vamping my house!
It hit me pretty hard one day when I looked around my house and saw the sadness of the person I was staring back at me... so, like I did about a year ago, I am taking one step at a time to make my house (which I love) reflect who I am now. Step one is the cleansing purge that is underway :).

With all the focus my family and I have been putting on the house, I have not been spending as much time at the gym. Don't take that the wrong way lol... I've still been getting cardio in 3x's a week and BeautyFit boot camp 2x's per week. Nothing to scoff at, BUT not the same level that I have been used to.
I am fully aware that now, more than ever, people are following my updates to see what I'm upto. Sandra (BeautyFit) once told me that what I do AFTER my 12 weeks is what will determine my success.

With that in mind, I headed upstairs (the weight training area) at the gym for the first time since my 12 weeks ended. Thank goodness that boot camp has lots of weight bering exercise! lol
Man!!! Did it feel good!!! :)
Once again, Sandra was right by my side, making sure I felt confident and helping me find my bearings again :)
So with a new plan and all of the amazing knowledge I have been given by Sandra (BeautyFit) and Lisa (my 12 week trainer), I begin the next stage of my journey... training solo!!! :)

I am very sure that I will have many stories etc. for you all about my journeies upstairs.... stay tuned ;)
Today was leg day... I'm going to hurt tomorrow, mind you stronger legs will definitely help with moving all those boxes and bags out of my house!!! :P

Lift with the legs Hugs... Crystal :) xo

Celebration!!! Gotta Burn to Earn ;)

Hi Everyone!

With the 12 week BeautyFit challenge over, it was clear from our results that we earned the chance to partake in some "contra banned" lol ;) Yes, I said earned... this is an essential lesson I have learned in the past year and definitely in the last 12 weeks!
Some may read this and scoff at the idea of "earning" a "cheat" or "special meal"... that's ok! I choose to live this way because I did a BUNCH of living (ie. eating whatever, whenever) to get to 239lbs. The amount of work I have done to get to where I am now, is not going to be undone just because I want some chocolate or sushi.
My "cheat" meals will be planned, enjoyed and followed by a couple days of extra cardio and water. Some may say this takes all the "fun" out of eating what I want... I say it makes the special food taste all that much better!!! After all, if Christmas was everyday, would it be special?!

So with our weigh in and measurements complete, the BeautyFit blog team (including Coach Sandra) went out for a great girls night!
There was no "girls gone wild" or even "girls gone moderately sassy" lol. It was a wonderful night out with dinner, drinks (one actually lol), the above mentioned contra ban and awesome conversation... that's MY kinda girls night :)

So here I am, getting ready to "dig in" to my mile high chocolate cake, chocolate cheesecake, chocolate mousse mountain of wonderful-ness (aka. contra ban)... I didn't get even halfway through it!!! lol
A year ago I could've polished it off no problem... instead, I brought the rest home for my family :)

For those wondering, my eating has not really changed at all from the 12 week challenge. I stick to my staples because they work for me. I'm in such a routine with my food, why mess with a good thing?!

Until next time...

Heavenly chocolate Hugs... Crystal :) xo

Changes... keep 'em coming!!!

Hello All :)

Told you I wasn't done blogging ;) lol

So in the spirit of transformations... (not to mention a full blown campain from Sam and Jenna ;) I took the gigantic leap and...... CUT MY HAIR!!!! Aaaahhhhhhh!!!! ;)

Here is me... faded colour :( and long, thin, lifeless hair that has lived in a ponytail for much of the last 12 weeks!



And now.... PA POWWWW!!!!!!



This seriously had me freaked out! hehehe But, one of my Bff's Vicki (www.teeze.ca) always has my back! Love my fresh colour and the cut is awesome!!! ( I totally got an "I told you so" from Jenna lol, Sam was just proud that I took the leap, with a small nudge!)

Change is always scary... but for me, at this point, it's just another step towards finding out who I am. Without change, we all stay the same. That's cool for some... but not for me... anymore ;)

New "do" hugs... Crystal :) xo

12 week final results! :)

Hi All :)

It truly is amazing how time flies...I really can't believe that 12 weeks have passed already!

I'd like to first tell you all that have messaged me with supportive words and kindness...thank you all so very much!!! I'd also like to let you all know that this is not the end of my blog! You can't get rid of me that easily! lol I am nowhere finished with my transformation!

With that being said... here we go!

It's one thing to just show up at the gym for my weigh in and measurements, it's another kind of torture to do an entire training session with Lisa first! lol
You will see (once I can get the photo to load properly) just how awesome I look after an hour with Lisa :P

So without making you wait any longer... here are the results of 12 weeks of hard work and listening to my coaches :)

(I will be adding pics asap, unfortunately they would only load upside down lol please refer to my "Shopping with Sam 101" post for my most recent photo!)

Ok, ok.... here they are.... the numbers!!!


Start 186lbs Now 165.2lbs Total -20.8lbs

BF% Start 40.6 Now 36.6% Total -4%

chest 44" 41.5" -3.5"
waist 37" 33.5" -3.5"
hips 45" 39" -6" (holy jeebus!)
mid thigh 26" 25" -1"
mid calf 17" 16" -1"
bicep 14" 13" -1"

For a grand total of 16" lost overall :)

I'm not going to lie, I was a total mess after my weigh in. Not because I was unhappy with my results, the opposite actually! The past 12 weeks have been a huge challenge not only physically but mentally also! I have pushed, pulled, sweat, cried, laughed and celebrated with the most amazing group of women! From Sam and Lisa with my training, Jenna as my partner in crime, Amanda and the countless boot camp ladies that always have time for motivating words and of course my closest friends and family... I have been completely blessed!
The idea that this particular chapter has ended is bitter sweet. My training with Lisa is finished (for now, I'll be back though lol)and now all my choices are mine alone.

I still have BeautyFit boot camp (thank goodness) and the information and tools I have been given over the last 3 months. I am now completely in charge of what happens next... I smell a whole new challenge happening! lol
What I do from this point on really is the true test to what I have learned and actually implemented.

Sam asked me later that day what I ate after I left the gym, not cause she wanted to scold me or anything, she was curious. I replied, the same things I always eat!
I though about the idea that "all bets were off" and "I have no restrictions anymore" and then I felt like that person would be a quitter... what would that say about me if the first thing I did after weigh in was to go eat junk?! That's not why I did all this!

Am I going to have a "cheat" meal... of course! lol (stay tuned for the blog) I still love food, but I love me more :)

165.2lb hugs... Crystal :) xo

Shopping with Sam 101 :)

Shopping!!! The mere thought of it puts a smile on the face of millions of women... not this one lol Unless it's shoes, purses or something that doesn't discriminate with size ;).

Clothes shopping is still a huge issue with me, most of it boils down to fear. Will things fit? Will I look stupid? What the hell do I even like? and What size am I?!
Ugh! lol
So what happens when a particular thing causes me fear and anxiety? I get called out on it and face it head on! lol

So with fear of the unknown, I venture out to stores I've only been in for friends...
Good thing Sam is with me :P

First on the list GUESS... no, don't guess! The store GUESS! lol



One of my besties is a big Guess fan, I always told her that I wanted to be small enough to fit into a Lg Tshirt there.... well..... after going straight to the shoe section out of habit, then being piled up with clothes (Sam was having WAY too much fun lol) and heading into the dressing room, not only did a lg Tshirt fit but so did jeans!!! WTH?! Needless to say Sam and I ended up in tears in the change room :P Never would I imagined that I could walk into Guess, pick up a shirt or heaven forbid, pants of all things, and actually have them FIT!!! There is a serious disturbance in the force! lmao Who is this person? Is it really me? Holy Crap!

So off to the next place (I bought the Tshirt btw)... LeChateau...
Dresses proved to be a little more challenging... to my utter surprise, a lg fit there too, however, being large chested has its own set of problems lol.
Trying to find the right "cut" or fit for a dress can be pretty tricky. Yes I have lost a large amount of weight, I have done weight training, cardio and much more... the reality is that some areas,coming from such a large size, are going to take a little longer to "respond" lets say. I'm good with it... I've made my peace with this ongoing battle and it will not get me down! lol

In the meantime, A-line dresses are the cut for me :)
Once again, a huge pile of dresses accumulated and one after another, I tried them on! The a-line was the most flattering for me and I really like the style.
Sam and I talked about something I never had thought of before, building a wardrobe!
I was used to getting a pair of dress pants and two shirts that were "ok" and switching back and forth for work. When choices are limited and you don't feel like yourself in the things you can fit into... this is the best I could do.
Now, with a brighter insight, I can shop around with much more choice and find "pieces" that I like and make a statement about who I am.... this will take some time for me but I feel so much better prepared and for once, optimistic about clothes shopping!



This dress was my (and Sams') favorite... she put this "before and after" together for me to remind me how far I've come :) We all need a little reminder now and then!
I didn't end up buying it, I might go back for it lol but with so many choices.... a girl has to keep her options open ;) lol

Guess T-Shirt hugs... Crystal :) xo

Finally... a 5K!

Hi Everyone!

So as the title of my blog says... I FINALLY did a full 5K on the treadmill! WooooHoooo!!! :D
This was a pretty big challange for me, I've had a really big mental struggle with learning how to run and pushing (and finally pulling) myself through to finish it.

As you can see below, I made it in under 50min which was awesome. Totally stoked about that! :)
At one point I remember thinking, "I don't give a sh#% if you're tired, you're not getting off till you've done 5K" lol I think that what Jimmy means when he says I'll start pulling myself...hmmmm I may have just gotten "it".

And the whole experience would not be complete without a pic of how I looked afterwards lol
Just FYI, I was still seeing spots at this point :P hehehe My daughter asked if I put BeautyBum on my face by accident! lmao

While I know this was my challange to meet and conquor, there are many people that have helped me sooo much with just not giving up on myself. Obviously Sam and by fellow BeautyFit partner Jenna, my trainer Lisa and the beautiful and inspirational Sheryl from World Gym in Kitchener! Thank you guys so much for all your words of encouragement and knowing this was a tough one for me but kicking my ass to keep going! :)

Sweaty and Stoked hugs... Crystal :) xo

The Hardest Place to Eat Healthy!!!

Hi All! :)

I'm sure we've all been there... doing our very best to eat clean and healthy, staying focused and making the best choices possible in every situation.
Let me help you by warning you of one of the places you are just better off being prepared with your own snacks...

The Movie Theater!!! :( lol

My daughter and I (and some great girlfriends of mine) are all huge Harry Potter fans! So when we got the opportunity to be able to see ALL the Harry Potter movies on the big screen, we jumped at the chance :) Don't judge people... I love these characters and cry at the movies too lol ;)

So for 7 Mondays straight we have been seeing the entire series...



I had already begun my 12 week transformation when we started going so I was prepared to pack (and sneak in) my own snacks! lol
It wasn't until Sidney and I sat down to our first movie that I realized how horrible the movie theater food really is!!!
Even Sidney commented that there was a serious lack of healthy options lol



Poutine....really, someone sat in front of us with one and the smell nearly drove me mad! I'm not gonna lie... it smelled amazing but really look at it, it looks pretty damn gross! The smell of the salt was overwhelming and made me thirsty lol.



Popcorn with "butter", chocolate (I still love chocolate lol), candy, soda AND to make matters worse... nachos and cheese, greasy pizza and chili fries too! Your best possible hope is the fat free frozen yogurt....unless....



You're pro active and bring some goodies :)
Yep! This is what was stashed in my purse... not just my snacks, but Sidneys too... after all what kind of example is it to eat healthy but let your kids eat crap?! Don't get me wrong, treats in moderation are fine... but junk is junk! Her treat is the frozen yogurt:) We bring our own bottled water because $3/bottle is just ridiculous... and if the reason of health doesn't speak to you, think of your wallet lol. Imagine the cost of theater food... save yourself some cash AND calories... pack some goodies (I've even brought cottage cheese with berries and an ice pack lol).

If people are cool with eating poutine right beside me... they can deal with the crunch of my sugar snap peas! ;)

Expecto Patronum hugs.... Crystal :) xo (yep, told you... BIG Potter fan;) lol

Family Trip to Whole Foods :)

Hi All! :)

This past Sunday Ian (hubby), Sidney (kidlet) and I headed to Whole Foods Market in Oakville.
I was first introduced to Whole Foods by Sam when she brought me there in the spring as part of my "50lbs lost" Lulu Lemon reward road trip! (Still adore my scuba hoodie that I got that day... thought lately it's been a little warm for it ).

I was so excited to be heading there with my family because I knew they'd love it there too...



The first thing you notice when you walk in is how bright and colourful it is! Everything is so neatly stacked and arranged beautifully... it really is like edible art! :)
With all of these pre prepped foods, it's difficult to make an excuse about not being able to eat healthier, Whole Foods isn't the only place that makes healthy options like these readily available...:)



I'm a sucker for herbs and spices lol and they even have edible flowers which Sidney thought was pretty cool!



I couldn't resist taking this picture... the colours were so awesome and peppers are one of my faves!!!



This is the bath and body section, I knew Sidney would love this isle! She is obsessed with hand made soaps and scrubs lol She makes them for me all the time and is always looking for new inspiration! :)



Now on to the "main event" lol. I raved about the cafe area of the market and Ian and Sidney were both eager to check it out and get some lunch... oops I chopped Ian in half lol
The thing to remember about all this wonderful variety of food is that a)moderation is key AND b)they charge by the pound lmao Ian will never forget that now ;)



This is Sidney and her carb laden lunch! Btw... there's rice under her salad hahaha
I didn't even look at what Ian had in his container... it was just better that way! :P



This is my delicious, well balanced and portion controlled lunch ;) Mmmmmmmm.....



And finally, Sidney and I... I had to get in at least one pic ;) lol
I absolutely recommend a trip to Whole Foods market with the family... it's a great eye opener to the variety and possibilities that are out there. A healthier lifestyle doesn't have to be bland, boring and tasteless... Life is what YOU make it!!! :)




Until next time... check out the Whole Foods website www.wholefoodsmarket.com

Whole Foods Hugs... Crystal :)xo

My BeautyFit Transformation and the products I LOVE... BeautyFuel'd!!!

Hey All! :)

I hope all of you had an awesome Canada Day!!! I did!!! :)
My Canada Day began with an 8am session that I thought was going to consist of me tackling my good ole pal... the treadmill, for some improvement on my running lol
I feel very patriotic as I bust open my BeautyFuel in its red and white bottle ;)
BeautyFuel'd and trucking it to World Gym Kitchener (listening to some Pitbull, ya not Canadian but totally gets me moving!!! ;).

So, anyhoo, I get to the gym and walk in to see Sam checking in for cardio as well... I feel a challenge coming on... the price to pay by running into Sam at the gym is a trip out of your comfort zone! LOL BTW... that is NOT a bad thing :D

Instead of my date with the treadmill I end up in a twisted cardio adventure that begins with 20min of sexy Mr.Stairmill and ends with.... *insert drumroll* ...



YEP! That's me on a spin bike!!! :P hehehe

At this point I am thanking the universe for my BeautyFuel cause that is the difference between a "meh" cardio session and an "I've been ambushed by Sammi and kicked ass" cardio session!!!
True to form, not only did I keep up with 20min of steps BUT also killed it with 20min of Spin Class 101 Compton style ;) (bless her for motivating me with Pitbull lol).

Honestly ladies, if any of you have been following my blog (thank you sooo very much btw xoxo) and have not yet tried the BeautyFit products... TRY THEM! :) There is a reason that I am doing a "BeautyFit" 12 week challenge!!! This company and its philosophy have been a part of my entire weight loss journey, not just the last 8 weeks.
At my 239lb beginning, BeautyFit has been the ONLY product and training regime that I have trusted because they are REAL! They believed in me when I didn't and the products supported each step and stage as I came to it, and still are!
A big part of the BeautyFit philosophy is to pay it forward, because to change one woman is to help change a family and communities. I feel like the least I can do is pass my experiences along to hopefully help others!:)Seriously, take the time to read all the info on the beautyfit.com page... there are no BS promises, just reality and the willingness and expertise to help those that are truly wanting to make a change and help themselves!

What began as a regular trip to the gym became another barrier that has been busted! :)
What better way to start the day on our countries birthday?! I left the gym feeling accomplished and actually really liking he spin bike!!!

Happy and safe Canada Day long weekend to you all...(and Happy 4th of July to all my US friends)...

Spinning, spinning, spinning hugs... Crystal :)xo

What a WEEK!!!

Hi All!

While we're so used to starting our weeks on Sunday or Monday (depending on your mind set lol) I have been running on the mentality of one day at a time. This means that by the time I stop to look up and take inventory of what I've been doing...a few days have passed and SO much has happened!!!

First... let me fill you in on my last "Fun Friday" lol :s
Let me buffer by saying that I really DO love Lisa (awesome trainer from World Gym Kitchener) she's just a little crazy! hehehe
"Fun Friday" was an insane circuit of 13 exercises that I repeated 5 times... never mind the stop watch! lol My first "go round" was timed at 5min 36sec....to my amazement, each round I got a faster time! my last circuit was timed at.. 4min17sec!!!
HOLY MOLY!!! :D That was insanely hard but felt AMAZING to accomplish! Here I thought "WOW, what a way to end Fun Friday... great feat accomplished! Hahahahaaaa... NOT DONE YET! 10min of intervals on the elusive stair mill had me sweating like someone had turned on the faucet! Eeewwwwww! Lol Seriously, I could barely speak but when I could, I was apologizing to Lisa for sweating so much LOL.
Because I am now one of those sick individuals that likes to push their boundries and limits, I also came back for a BeautyFit Boot Camp Blitz later that same day!!! Man was that fun! It really was fun with all the ladies and the people honking at us as they drove by lol... I was just completely spent afterwards (but man did I feel like I could take on anything... as long as I didn't have to run ;)

Tuesday had me seeing Rebecca from World Gym Kitchener for my nutrition and weigh in/measurements... I always get a little stressed when it comes to this time. I know that there will be results, I know I've done exactly what needs to be done to get them... I have amazing coaches and support all around me... so when I step on the scale and Rebecca says.... your down 8lbs!!! Woohoo! That makes me feel great!!!
Here's the low down on my measurements too :)...

Chest: 42.25" -.75"
Waist: 34.75" -.25"
Hips: 40.5" -1.75"
Thigh: 25" -.5"
Calf: 16.5" -.25"
Bicep: 13" -.5"
Total inches: -4"

Total inches lost to date: -11.0" Total lbs. lost to date: -15.8lbs.

Until next time :)

170.6lb hugs... Crystal :) xo

Motivational Reading :)

Hi All :)

Just a quick note in response to all the lovely ladies asking where I find motivation...
My greatest motivation, as it is for most Moms, is my daughter!
At my starting weight of 239lbs I had zero motivation to do anything for myself, however, as parents know... you'll do anything for your child! In the sobering words of Dr.Phil (speaking to an obese father of 2)"if you're willing to die for your children, why aren't you willing to live for them?"
That is where my motivation began. I remember early on working one on one with Sammi, she would say "until you realize that you're worth the effort, do it for Sidney".
That's exactly what I did until I came to realize that I AM worth ALL this effort!
Of course I still have my family to motivate me but I now I also look to great magazines to help me see the big picture!



I remember the first time I read an "Off the Couch" issue of Oxygen magazine (they have the BEST collectors editions) and saw the amazing before and after photos and stories.
Some of these women were the same size as me, some larger. Seeing the outcome of their determination and hard work helped me to really understand that it IS possible!!!
I can't imagine how many times Sam refrained from an "I told you so" every time I would show her a new before and after story I'd found lol.

If you are reading this wanting to make a change or are needing encouragement to stick with your journey, please, please!!! do some of the following...
join a class or boot camp (like BeautyFit boot camp ;)tons of support just waiting for you!... ask around at your gym for those that have made big lifestyle changes and are willing to share their story... join an online forum like the one at oxygen magazine for support... and last but not least... email me :) crystal@crystalizedartistry.com

Til next time...

Get off the couch and give me a hug!!! ... Crystal :) xo

Hi Everyone!

While this blog is dedicated to my personal 12 week BeautyFit challenge, I absolutely had to share with you all the huge victory of my friend and fellow BeautyFit challenge participant.... Jenna!

While many of you have read my past blog about my struggles with running... I have been so inspired by Jenna who has been working her butt off and just completed her very first 5k race at the Waterloo Classic this past Sunday!!!

I was so happy to surprise her at the finish line with Sam (like we would EVER miss this!!!) the following hug in sued and many tears were shed... all happy, proud tears! Like I had just watched my "sister" take on the dragon and kick its ass!!! lol
And how cute is Sheryl(one of our fave running gurus)watching us! :)



And here she is... beautiful Jenna! With her medal and BeautyFit tank... not to mention the glow of a woman that has proven to herself that she can truly do ANYTHING!!!



In a time where each day brings me new challenges to face, I need only to look around and within to find the inspiration and motivation to move onward and upward!!!

Way to go Jenna... you did this for you!!! and in the process, inspired many others (including me!!!). Can't wait to be at the starting line with you soon!!!

Proud and Inspired hugs... Crystal:) xo

p.s. don't forget to to follow Jennas' blog also through the BeautyFit website!
http://www.beautyfit.com

Cha cha changes! ;)

Hi Everyone!

I've been doing a lot of thinking the last couple of days about how I've changed in just the last 6 weeks ( I can't believe I'm halfway through the challenge!).

I'm sure there are many changes I still don't see or maybe understand yet BUT, here is a list of things (mental and physical) that have definitely changed for the better...

1. I wear tank tops in public!!! :D

This is a pretty liberating one! I cannot remember a time in recent history that I wore a tank top for anything other than sleeping in. That includes the hottest of summer days, I would normally just suffer. Not this year!!! My arms are bare for all the world to see AND I'll even strike a bodybuilder pose if you ask! lol ;)

2. I paid actual money for spandex capris! lol

I love them! You will find me most days in my awesome gym pants (and tank top ;) usually because I'm heading to, or have just been to the gym. The other reason is because clothing is lasting me an average of 2 weeks before things are getting too big! I'm excited to say that I will be adding a pair of lulu's to my closet once I hit my next goal :)

3. I'm getting some pretty sweet muscles!

Oh ya I said it!!! ;D I can actually see definition in my shoulders and biceps (and I'd freakin better after all the work Sam and Lisa have me doing! hahaha) not to mention my calves! Holy moly... totally impressive lol

4. Energy!!!

Wow what a difference! Don't get me wrong, I am still beat at the end of the day, but I have such a different pace now. It take so much more to exhaust me!

Getting up at 6am is not a chore, I enjoy my quiet mornings to myself before the craziness of my day begins.

When the end of the day gets closer, I'm tired because I've worked, trained and done house and family stuff. I am no longer exhausted from just carrying my body weight around.

These changes may not seem like much but for me, they are HUGE!!!

These "little" changes are all adding up to a very big difference in my overall lifestyle. I have always been an optimist but for the first time in a very long time I'm optimistic and excited about Me!

Bare armed Hugs... Crystal :) xo

Week 5 Food Challenges... :P

Hello Again!

One thing about writing about this whole process, is that I want to be completely real with you all! What's the point otherwise?!

Week 5 was not only the most physically challenging, but also the most mentally challenging where my food was concerned.

This had nothing to do with feeling deprived (yet lol, I'm sure it'll come) but with small things in everyday life. Things I didn't really think about because I was so focused on the task at hand.

For instance, I went to Medieval Times with my Daughters class this past week... I made sure to have my breakfast and then a meal right before we left for Toronto. Because of rules etc. I wasn't able to bring food with me, and realistically this is something I am going to have to be ok with and know how to deal.

So off we go... I have an idea of whats on the menu so I'm not surprised to see the roasted chicken pieces being dished out lol... no biggie, remove the skin and yum a yum! The garlic bread that came before it was harder to resist however ( BUT I did!!!! yay!!!) it just smelled so good and was that really great pasty white bread that goes straight to your ass and sticks to the roof of your mouth.

Then comes the potatoes, they are roasted and don't look greasy so I have one. Not too bad... I hope! Corn on the cob... pass... Jeebus I'm still hungry! Sidney (my daughter) didn't finish all her chicken!!! YOIINK!!! lol Saved by the chicken and not too soon cause here comes the apple pie! Aaahhhh crap!!! I think to myself " it not like this is cheesecake" great point! that would be soooo much harder.... no thanks to the apple pie... another small victory!!!

I return home without incident and eat a meal as soon as I get in the house.

So why was this so difficult? Well it wasn't because the food was so amazing that I couldn't resist, it was more of a mind game... its a special day, its just one meal, not something I eat all the time... all of these things would have been my excuse not too long ago.

To be quite honest, I could've eaten everything there because I am now allowed 1 "free" meal per week... BUT I am very choosy about what I am using a freebie on!!! lol I am not wasting it on something thats just "ok".

Sometimes the mind game is the hardest, no one but me would've known... and thats enough for me. In the end, it is up to me because this is about ME. Simple but true. :)

HUZZAH hugs... Crystal :) xo

Push, pull, TRX and "leaning" on Friends!

Hi All :)

Wow...What a week!!! :P

This past 7 days has been the most challenging yet... though I'm very sure I'll be saying that many more times before the end of my 12 weeks!

My favourite weight training ninja Lisa introduced "push" and "pull" days which apparently is going to be the theme for the next couple of weeks.

On these days, as you can guess, my weight training revolves around either pushing weights away from my body OR pulling weight towards my body.

For instance, on push day I do hack squats... they may sound funny but you won't catch ME laughing... YIKES! I love to hate hack squats. They are hard as hack (haha I made a funny!) and make me walk funny for at least a day BUT they get me one step closer to the "pitbull video girl" booty I hope to have at some point! LOL

Now, on pull day... it's aductors :0... if you're not familiar with these, then just imagine sitting in something like an ObGyn chair (I am not even making this up!!!) lol and squeezing your thighs together with like 80lbs attached!!! I know! My first reaction was WTH?! lol Is that possible?! Turns out that it IS possible...even with 3 sets of 12! Holy Moly it's amazing when you do something you had no idea you were capable of. And note to my hubby to be for warned about my impressive inner thigh strength! hahaha

That's just a couple of examples of what I do on those days BUT training is a full hour and Lisa is creative ;) By the end of an hour I am side stepping down the stairs and thinking about Alieve and a hot bath but, I do love the feeling!

So, now that you've got an idea of what a killer workout I get on push/pull days... imagine my face when I walk into BeautyFit boot camp to see bizarre straps hanging from the ceiling?! Oh Jeebus!

Turns out that these straps are known as a TRX system... they are designed for you to use your body weight as resistance while doing various awkward looking exercises (Sam makes it look easy, however I manage to look like a cat stuck in a tree :P).

I would urge any of you that have never seen a TRX workout to do a youtube search and check it out. Then imagine a room full of women at various fitness levels learning the basics.... GOOD TIMES!!! hahaha

It was an absolute testament to the amount of trust we all have in Sam, to hook our feet in and just go for it!!!

Now while I'm on the subject of trust... it's one thing for me to be going through this transformation by exercising, eating clean etc. All of these things require me to "carry my own weight" so to speak. While my weight is no secret during this process, knowing the number 178lbs and actually feeling the weight of it are two vastly different things.

This gave me big time anxiety when, in boot camp, we paired up and had to do the most frightening push ups ever! I say frightening for 2 reasons, first... I am not yet very good at military push ups and second... and most importantly... I had to do said push ups while my partner Beth (who is tall, thin and unbelievably kind) was in a high plank position and my feet were on her butt!!! I KNOW!!!!! I admit to almost crying at the thought of burdening Beth with my weight and also to apologizing profusely before and after... but she is a trooper!

I can honestly say that this entire week has been a challenge in every way (more to come about my past weeks food challenges)...

'til next time...

Hanging upside down hugs... Crystal :) xo

My "Insurance Policy" :)

Hey All!

I want to start introducing you all to the amazing BeautyFit products that I am using... after all, whats a BeautyFit transformation without BeautyFit products and supplements?! lol

To choose one product as my favorite is just impossible cause I love them all for different reasons! That's why I began with BeautyBum... it is the product that is helping me with one of my biggest fears... hanging/loose skin.

I am going to tell you about why I love it... I'm not a scientist, that's what Jimmy and his R&D team are for, so if you want that info then follow this link...

https://www.beautyfit.com/2011/beautybum.html

So... onto why I love BeautyBum! Like I said, I am very fearful of the thought of loose skin after i reach my weight loss goals. I do appreciate that this will be an ongoing process will get worse before it gets better. I just believe its proactive to have a "helping hand" in this situation! lol Seriously, what girl is going to turn down a product that firms, tightens, moisturizes and improves the overall feel and texture of your skin?!?! Sign me up!!! ;)

It's like my little weapon that blasts my big puffy marshmallow cellulite into small mini marshmallow cellulite so they can break down easier! I'm down with that kind of weaponry! lol

Where do you use it? On ALL my flubbery bits.... this is NOT just for bums! I put it on my butt, thighs, stomach and chicken wing portion of my arms. Just remember, for the love of all thats holy, to wash your hands after!!! Why? Cause it gets toasty warm and tingles! :) Don't worry that you'll turn bright red wherever you've put it cause that means its working!!! You just don't want that on your face or in your eyes :P (side note, its a great "seat warmer" in the winter :).

I have definitely noticed a BIG difference in the texture and firmness of my skin,especially in my thighs and bum....wooooohooooo! ;D

BeautyBum comes with a HUGE recommend from me...LOVE IT and it gives me some peace of mind that I'm doing everything possible to combat the loose skin issue!

Warm and tingly Hugs.... Crystal :) xo

Week 4 Results!

Hi all! :)

Sooooo.... I had my week 4 follow up with the awesome Rebecca (WGK) today and....

*drumroll*........ here they are... My week 4 weight and measurements!

Aaahhhh!!! Lol Just kidding :P

Weight 178.4lbs (-2.6lbs)

Body fat 37.1% (-3.5%)

Chest 43" (-1")

Waist 35" (-2")

Hips 42.25" (-2.75")

Mid Thigh 25.5 (-.5")

Mid Calf 16.75" (-.25")

Bicep 13.5 (-.5")

So what does this all mean? lol

To date (day 23) I have lost 7.6lbs, 3.5% body fat and 7" ... not too shabby! :)

I'm not going to lie, understanding the science behind weight loss is very new to me. In a world where we are used to seeing drastic weekly pound loss on TV, it's difficult at first to understand why I'm not dropping 5lbs each and every week. Thank goodness I have amazing professionals in my corner to explain the finer points of my body's workings! lol

One of my greatest fears with this whole weight loss thing is the idea of loose and hanging skin :( I am completely happy with doing this the right way (diet, exercise and hard freaking work!!!) it may take a little longer but as far as I'm concerned, I could really use that time to "enjoy every minute of the journey" (direct quote from Jimmy).

I have some amazing and inspirational people guiding me through this (more about these awesome peeps later) and I figure the more I embrace each step taken in the right direction, the better the lessons are going to stick!

So... until next time!

7 inches less to hug... Crystal :) xo

Running... my new nemesis!

To date, there is no other form of cardio that disheartens me more than the dreaded...Running!

True, there was a time at the beginning of my weight loss, where walking at a 2.7mph was exhausting. As a matter of fact, in BeautyFit boot camp we sometimes head outside to my old high school and during one of these "outings" was the first time I had ever run the track there!

Don't get me wrong, I do get that I'm a work in progress. I do appreciate how far I've come thus far... it's just that this running thing really beats me up mentally.

So why? You may ask, am I even bothering? Well, I feel like the things that I find most difficult are probably the very things I'm going to learn the most from... or I'm a glutton for punishment! Lol

I will admit to, in the past, rolling my eyes and even making fun of those people who are out in the cold, rain, heat or snow running. I now find myself envying their dedication.

Yet, every time I get on the damn treadmill (2 min intervals of running and walking) I last about 30 min before I feel like I'm going to puke!

In my mind I hear the voice of Dory from Finding Nemo..."Just keep swimming, just keep swimming" so either Disney IS really motivational OR I'm hallucinating... either way, I'll take it!

So, in the meantime, I'm just going to keep plugging away at it. What do I have to lose really?!

One of two things are going are going to happen... I'm either going to become a runner or get a really great cardio workout trying :P

Thank goodness for an amazing support team... My BeautyFit family of Sandra and Jimmy, Lisa,Rebecca and Sheryl of WGK and of course Jenna and all the boot camp ladies, I know I'll get through this.

Hugs while I "just keep swimming"...I mean running (swimming is a whole other story).

-Crystal xo

"FUN" Fridays... Lisa style :s lol

So today was my very first "fun Friday" training session with Lisa (world gym Kitchener).

As I expected, Lisa is insane and definitely masochistic! lol

Today's themes were... pushing my limits and plates!

Each time Lisa gave me a new exercise to do, it was followed up with... "now hold this while doing it" so here I am doing back extentions while cradling a 10lb plate, doing crunches with a 5lb plate (small mercy :s Jeebus!!!) lol and I'm sure there were more but I've blocked them out!

Now as for pushing limits... Oy Oy Oy! I actually did 195 lb leg presses today!!! Oh ya! and not just a couple either... 2 sets of 15 thanks very much! lol I knew my "Greek column" legs would come in handy at some point! ;)

All kidding aside about how Lisa tried to kill me today... and she really did her best haha... I love when I get pushed like that because I wouldn't do it myself and frankly... I enjoy a good a$$ kicking at the gym! ;) LOL Yep... I've crossed over to the dark side bawhahahahahaha

Fun Friday hugs... Crystal xo

Week 2 Completed!

It's amazing how the weeks are flying by! According to my 12 week journal, I don't have a weigh in til week 4 (I'll also get my measurements done again :s), so no weight update for you all this time. That being said, even though I'm just into week 3 , each week seems to be presenting me with new and different challenges. The first week was all about getting my water in (this is a hard one for me)and getting into the swing of my new nutrition plan. I didn't feel deprived of food, I was feeling good and in charge! Lol Into week 2 I am still working on my water (holy moly it's a lot of water!!!) and was even having trouble getting all of my servings in... Seriously! (I will probably end up eating those words... Since they have 0cals lol) Also, week 2 brought with it the challenge of a long weekend, which wasn't as hard as I thought it might be. I'm not really a drinker but desserts are a definite weakness :s I'm happy to report that I refrained! Yay Me!!! Lol As I'm halfway through week 3, there again (surprise, surprise) are new developments. Firstly, if I'm going to be drinking this much water and hanging in my bathroom this much... It's getting redecorated!!! Then, because of the long weekend, Tuesday was a double up day of weight training with Lisa and BeautyFit boot camp with Sandra. Needless to say, I'm sore as heck. With weights on Wednesday and Friday (Lisa calls it "Fun Friday" I'll let you know if she's crazy! Lol) plus boot camp on Thursday, I'm gearing up for some sore muscles and long baths! :P Hugs while doing the "pee pee" dance -Crystal :) xo BTW... If any of you have questions for me about my challenge, please feel free to leave a comment or email me at... Crystal@crystalizedartistry.com OR find me on facebook! :) I'll answer any questions I can right through my blog! Don't be shy :)