Venus Trapped in Mars Sports and Lifestyle Blog Dallas

19 November 2013

When Life Hands You Pounds You Don't Need

I stepped on the scale Monday morning and I saw a number that I had never seen before in my life. Actually, if you subtracted 10 from the number showing on my scale, I'd never seen that number before either. What have I done? 30 pounds. I've gained 30 pounds since I moved to Dallas. Ok, so that confession didn't feel very good at all. 

When I saw that number staring back at me I hit the bathroom floor in tears. What have I done?! 

Living in Knoxville and working out 3 or more days per week, to now living in Dallas and have been to the gym a total of 3 TIMES. Not 3 times per week, just 3 times. Moving to a new city all by yourself is not easy. Making friends is insanely difficult. I don't want to say I've been depressed since I moved to Dallas, that isn't the case, but there have been times where I've been so sad it hurts. I tell myself, "I don't have anyone here to impress, who cares if I order this large stuffed crust pizza all for myself?" 



I won't say that I turn to food for comfort, I don't think that is accurate. I turn to food for entertainment. I turn to shopping for entertainment. I turn to a bottle of wine and take out for entertainment when I don't have Friday night plans. Saturday night plans. Sunday night plans. Monday night plans... you get the picture. 

The point of this post is not for people to start thinking I'm depressed. I'm fine! I love Dallas and I'm slowly but surely making new friends. Thank God for blog land sending me Helene! I'm just missing my best friend in Knoxville, Lisa who was always my gym buddy forcing me to go to the gym with her. I'm missing my sorority sisters and roommates being across the hall. Why is there no match.com for friendships? Riddle me that? 

I know I'm getting off topic, but you guys said you wanted more of my "face" and I want to do this post right, even if no one reads it. For the first time on this blog, I truly feel like I'm writing a post for no one else but myself.  I want to do a weight loss post. I want to find motivation to lose weight. I've lost my motivation mojo. 

I'm not changing to a weight loss blog. I'm not going to blog about qunioa. You won't see any recipes for skinny lasagna on here. I won't be posting pictures of the treadmill readout, nor will I be offering tips on the proper form for a lunge. What I am going to do though is start posting monthly progress reports on various Sundays. Maybe even a linkup if anyone would want to join! I know myself, I won't stick to it on my own, but I will stick to it if I put it out there. I will stick to it if I know that everyone in blog land knows I'm trying to lose weight. I'm way too competitive, publicly failing at something is a personal form of embarrassment up there with peeing in your pants on the first day of school. 

Last night I went to a weight watchers meeting. I wanted to ask the teacher if I could leave early the minute I stepped in the class because it was all old people discussing the number of points in cranberry sauce. How is this relevant to me? Where was J.Hud? It would be so cool if weight watchers did age based meetings *suggestion cup!*. I don't have the same temptations that a 73 year old woman has. I travel for work with all men, I party, I drink, I get hungover sometimes and want to eat all the things. Just the thought of Cranberry sauce makes me wanna vom. I think weight watchers, the program itself will work and I'm pumped to get started, but the meetings, I just don't know about these meetings. I had to think of something more motivating....

Here is how I am going to accomplish my weight loss goals by combining my love of shopping and my desire to be skinny! I'm not an expert, I'm not pretending to be an expert. I'm just a girl with a blog, photoshop skills and a sense of what works and what doesn't work for me. 


Step One: Admit your Weaknesses

My name is Sarah and I'm addicted to eating, drinking and spending money.

Step Two: You are now officially on a shopping freeze.

(Excluded from MY shopping freeze are the following items: bills, booze, small ticket entertainment like going to the movies, dining out, grocery store, anything the pups need, misc supplies) 

So anything else (i.e. clothes, purses, sports tickets) you can't buy, you gotta earn it! 

Step Three: Make yourself a wish list. These are items you really want and these items will be your reward for when you accomplish different milestone goals. 



Step Four: You are going to start saving for items on your wish list! Each time you accomplish a task on your list, you drop the appropriate dollar amount in the piggy bank. You can either use an actual piggy bank, or if you don't ever have cash, like me, you can use the Smarty Pig app.

So now you need to determine how much expendable income you have and can dedicate. I'm not Dave Ramsey, I'm not going to recommend dollar amounts for your budget, but what I will do is show you what my point system looks like!

Step Four: Determine what your goals are. Each time you hit one of those goals, you can use the money in the piggy bank to purchase something off your wish list!

My first 5 goals for the 5 items on my wish list:
10 Pounds Lost
12 straight weeks at the gym (Tracked via Four Square)
10% body weight lost
7 straight days without a single cheat meal
15% body weight lost



Has anyone else hit the wall, like me?
 Do you want to play along?



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119 comments :

  1. GIRLFRIEND. THIS IS RIGHT UP MY ALLEY BECAUSE YOU KNOW HOW MUCH I FUCKING LOVE FITNESS. I DID THIS BACK IN 2012 SO I KNOW HOW YOU'RE THINKING/FEELING AND I'M GOING TO BE YOUR BIGGEST SUPPORTER/CHEER SQUAD. YOU CAN DO THIS!!!!!

    MAKING THOSE GOALS IS YOUR FIRST STEP TOWARDS SUCCESS. A PLAN IS WHAT IS IMPORTANT TO START YOUR JOURNEY! YOU KNOW I MEAN BIDNESS BECAUSE THIS ENTIRE COMMENT WAS IN CAPS. BUT I'M SO EXCITED FOR YOU TO DO THIS AND IF YOU NEED ANY TIPS/ADVICE, MSG ME ANY TIME.

    -kathy
    Vodka and Soda

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  2. This is great motivation. I love going to body pump. Even better when you can fit in yoga the next day and stretch it all out. Having a gym buddy does make it so much easier. I am good at talking myself out of going to the gym. I have been doing a 30 day squat challenge just to see if it can get me into some kind of routine and make me do something daily. It has helped me get a little more motivated to go to the gym. What gym do you use?

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  3. Good luck!! With all of those rewards set up, you're definitely going to accomplish your goals! I can definitely attest to the motivation a new Lululemon outfit gives you to work out so get it giirl!!

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  4. Ummmm totally just posted today about how I can't get the motivation to work out...lol! I love to do it, but lately I have had to FORCE myself to! I am totally there with you on the gaining weight thing....ugh, why does pizza have to taste so gooooooood?

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  5. well you might just have me hooked into doing this with you! It may be my desire to fit into a short holiday dress for New Years or it might be your super cute graphics, but damnit i am inspired!! Let's do this!

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  6. YES! I've absolutely hit a wall and it's just not acceptable. I mean for god's sake, I need to fit into my wedding dress when it shows up in February! I will not do that eating the way I have been lately and not working out. Love this idea, although I think I will participate simply in the monthly update posts (link-up if you decide to do it). Yay for getting healthy!

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  7. YES i'll totally play along. I will even send you guilty texts, if you want... I was on WW and lost about 30 pounds, it was really awesome... but then I kind of stopped after my wedding and while i've only gained like, 7 back, i feel AWFUL. Also... I still pay for WW I just don't use it. But no more. I start again tomorrow and i'm going to mean it this time. Also, I signed up for a half marathon in April, so there's that.

    I like that smarty pig app!

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  8. This is a super fun way to work out! It's what I do! I have an elliptical at home and I do the C25K program and yoga from apps on my iPad/iPhone. Any week that I complete EVERY workout I have scheduled...I get to treat myself to something small. :)

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  9. well this is a really really really good plan. i think my problem is when i don't plan, when i have a plan i stick to it. That's what my problem is right now. this is a great plan and I'm so proud of you. definitely printing this out for myself!

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  10. Also, have you used the Smarty pig app before? Is it awesome? I'm always nervous about these kinds of things I have to give my bank account info, etc. to...

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  11. Ready to join you in the weekly fitness check ins! Just need to see what the doc says tomorrow so make sure I can get back at it.

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  12. Girl. You know I'm in! I was doing so well and then I made some friends and now I eat and drink enough for like 17 people. I also broke up with the gym like a month ago and I miss it. I felt better. Yet instead of going I just make up reasons why I have other things to do. It's a problem. So what I'm saying is that you can sign me up for this game because it sounds fun! Also, if you need someone to text/snapchat/email and tell you to get your butt to the gym.. and then make you prove it? I could totes use one of those too!

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  13. Hi Sarah,

    that sounds like a plan! I've had the same issue a few months ago, when my jeans didn't fit me anymore. Time to change something, right? Okay, I had an excuse (I had an accident that took me one and half year to recover). But now I'm in training to gain my goal too: to get back in shape as I was before the accident. To gain muscles you need to eat enough protein, but I'm not at all a meat nor milk nor egg lover. So how do I get enough protein? Currently I make the 30 days challenge to eat vegan and I go to the gym semiweekly (BTW I'm not a gym lover, prefer doing something in the nature.) I've lost weight as I feel it how the clothes fit me, but can't see it on the scale (therefore I hate scales). So, don't take care that much about the scale, take care about your soul and your body! I'm with you :-)

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    1. Oh no!! I'm sorry to hear about your accident, that is horrible. Are you fully recovered now? I hope so! If you can feel it in your clothes, that is a victory, in my opinion! I wish I could say I hate scales, but I feel like I'm addicted to them when I'm trying to lose weight. Terrible, I know! YOU GO GIRL! We got this! :)

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  14. This is such a good idea! I've been feeling like you about my weight, so that could be a great way to save up for Christmas time!

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  15. you can do it!!! I got myself healthy recently after years of eating badly and not exercising...it will click when you are ready! I rewarded myself with presents as I achieved various goals (kind of like your piggy bank system) it worked for me!

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  16. This is great! I love the idea of paying yourself for working out and eating right. So smart! I love that.

    I have been on WW for a while now and it does work. I have never stepped foot into a meeting, so you totally can do it all online and still have results. You have to be diligent about tracking, but it really isn't hard. And there are extra points each week for going out or drinking or whatever. Just know that a glass of wine is 4 points. You typically only get 28 for the day.

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  17. This is a seriously good idea. Genius status. I would love to play along since I've been struggling to find the motivation to eat well and work out too.

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  18. Motivating yourself with shipping is such a good idea! Putting my goals on my blog always helps keep me accountable. Good luck!!

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  19. Good luck love! I need this as well!
    There is match.com for friendships, FYI. I forget the exact name, but big cities have websites for friends meetups because they realize how hard it is to meet new people. I'll try to find it for you, people love the one here in Chicago! (and, maybe they'll have you review their services!)

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    1. Meetup.com. That probably should have came to me sooner since I actually used the word meetup in my response...

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  20. I'm not a shopper but I totally see how this could motivate one. I have been awful about going to the gym lately to the point where the membership is going on hold til after the holidays but I definitely need to do SOMETHING to not gain a million lbs so following along with you helps everyone!

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    1. You're not a shopper?? I've never heard a woman say that before lol

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  21. I would totally play along. I was just making up a 12 week plan yesterday. The link up will TOTALLY help keep me on track, since I like you have no accountability. I'm stoked!

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  22. Im all over this. I have gained 30 lbs since I got married. It has been a struggle for me to get it off. I am motivated for two weeks and then I fall off for three, etc. I love Dallas, but I feel this city revolves around food and shopping. And I love to do both....so that is trouble. I am so here to cheer you on!!! I am going to try and join you too....but I must say, it will be hard for me to really get going until Christmas has passed but I will try like hell!!! Yay for you and your honesty. It has inspired me.

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  23. Oh friend...I gained 20 lbs after my wedding..like immediately. It sucks big time. I REFUSE to eat like these cray people with their kale and crap. I want to just eat normal and workout and be skinny. totally sounds do-able right?! I actually found a blog and I do Weigh In Wednesday link up with them - it is SO much more motivating when you are telling the world how you're doing. I DO not share my actual weight, nor will you see a bikini before and after shot....EVER. but a little plus and minus each week is acceptable :) I'd totally link up with you!

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  24. I just found your blog and loved this post. I had lost all of my mojo recently and have gained weight back. Plus it's cold and dark by 5pm which makes me just want to go home, get in my pjs, and eat all evening. I definitely want to play along but the only exercise I really do is run/walk. I need to come up with a reward system for when I do that or other little healthy things. I would definitely be in for this game.

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  25. This is actually a GREAT idea, and blogging about it is one of the best things you can do. (in my opinion.) Several weeks ago, I started my training for a half marathon, and if it wasn't for my post about it every week, there are many times that I would have given up.

    Because I do a post each week about my training, I feel like someone, somewhere is holding me accountable. Plus, there is always someone there with words of encouragement when I feel like I'm having a bad week. It's been super helpful.

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  26. Love that you are setting goals and giving yourself non-food related rewards! I am trying to lose 20 pounds too and it is hard! You totally got this girl!

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  27. I don’t necessarily like this post because there’s nothing really to like about someone being upset. I totally, totally feel for you though. When I moved to Chicago, I knew absolutely, 100% no one... and to be honest, it sucked. If you said that you actually were depressed, I wouldn't blame you at all. I love this city and I met some cool people through work and everything, but sometimes you just miss “your” people. Like even though you can get drinks with the new people, they usually already have “their” people to just sit around at home with and drink wine. Or just that know enough about your life that you can tell them a story without having to give a 10 minute introduction to the people you’re talking about and then have to worry if you sound weird.

    I haven’t been reading long enough (or maybe you never said) why you moved to Texas all on your own but it’s such a hard thing to do… definitely not everyone can do it. I hope that your plan here goes well and even if you do end up posting about the proper form of a lunge, it won’t be that bad – I feel like I can never do those right anyway.

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  28. This is brilliant! Not sure it would work for me. I am not quite as shopping-motivated as some. But I am happy that you found something that will hopefully work for you! I am eager to keep up with your progress! It will be hard but I know you can do it!

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  29. That is such an awesome tracking sheet- and I love the idea of rewarding yourself for accomplishing fitness goals. Good for you girl!

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  30. I had a little cry sesh in the bathroom this morning on the scale as well. I have been waking up 5 days a week at 4:30 am to do a 30 minute work out DVD for the last 4 months and I haven't lost a single pound. I have got to stop eating crap and drinking beer on the weekends. All my effort is completely washed by my bad choices. I have actually gained 4 lbs, which I am hoping is muscle from the work outs. Yeah, let's go with that. Totally playing along!

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  31. I'm am totally impressed here! What a fabulous plan and fabulous graphics to go along with it! I would totally be down for a linky party or what have you. My friend and I started this 30-day plank challenge for the month of November, and something as small as doing a plank every night has helped get my mojo back, because like you, I used to exercise and workout all the time. It hasn't happened consistantly for years. Plural. Like more than 1 year. So I totally need to get off this wall that I've hit too!! Thanks for sharing! Love this post!

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  32. I can totally relate to the new city, few friends feeling. I moved to San Antonio a couple of years ago and I still haven't met many people. Working from home doesn't allow you to see too many new faces. As for the weight loss, let me begin by saying you're beautiful and don't need to lose any weight! :D But these are some great motivational tools! I also have a suggestion for those who don't necessarily want to follow the numbers on the scale. Instead of rewarding themselves for pounds lost, they can reward themselves for completing a certain number of workouts in a month or eating healthy all month. It takes some of the pressure off and still motivates them to be active and healthy. Then the weight loss will be a reward in itself I'm sure. Good luck with your goals. I'm sure you'll do a great job reaching them!

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  33. Wow, I am impressed. That plan would overwhelm me but I am in the same boat. only I didn't move I got divorced so it changed the whole dynamic of my social life. Friday nights with wine and pizza sadly are not foreign to me either. And I have about 5 pairs of really cute pants that don't fit to prove it. Wahhhh! I guess I need to get on this boat with you and do something about it!

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  34. Love this, lady! All it takes is getting your butt to the gym and you'll always get SOMETHING done. I've gained a lot of weight post college and post marriage, but I'm just like you, trying to work it off! I'm happy to be your Dallas friend, too! :)

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  35. You can do it! I think it's easier when you make a plan and tell a bunch of people so they can hold you accountable. :)

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  36. Oh girl! I'm right with you!! I love fitness (usually) but lately I've been in a funk. I can't find the motivation I used to have. I've been saving money and not going out as much as I used to. This equals me having no clue how much weight I'm putting on because I'm sitting at home in yoga pants eating comfort food. I've gained 10 pounds in 4 months, yikes!!
    Totally love the rewards system - can't wait to follow along with you - I want to reward myself with a sparkly new New Years dress.

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  37. Great post. And I so feel you. I have all the excuses - lazy, tired, bored, I don't want to spend money at the gym, pasta is cheaper than veggies, etc - but this is a great plan for motivation. Good luck!

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  38. I'm also on a weight loss mission and this post is right up my alley! Which gym do you work out at? I work out at LA Fitness. Maybe we could be gym buddies since I also live in Dallas (close to Plano). I would also like to do a link up with you on weight loss. Just gotta brainstorm of what we could do. I started going back to the gym last week and I went all 5 days! I think this week will be more like 4 days but it feels good to get back to it. Let me know if you would like to team up and maybe we can also meet for coffee and discuss :)

    Bella @ Dateless in Dallas

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    1. I have a membership at 24 hour fitness. But an LA fitness just opened by my apartment so maybe I could switch!! I am in Deep Ellum but I work in Farmers Branch so I'm pretty close to Plano from work!

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    2. Oh perfect! What time do you get off work? I get to the gym around 6ish, the one off Midway and Park, close to Willow Bend Mall.

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  39. I really need to get back on the wagon, too! I'm so proud of you- we can do this!

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  40. I did weight watchers. twice actually. here's the thing about the meetings... they are corny as ever, but they work. i found that whenever i stopped the meetings, i would start to fall off. don't give up on them just yet, give at least a few more a chance. mine were on Saturday mornings, I had to get up early every Saturday morning and I hated the thought of it, but when I saw my weight dropping and my body changing every week at weigh-in... it was worth it. i don't know if it was accountability, or the little cheesy things they give you for reaching milestones, or if it was listening to the stories, struggles and motivation of others, but every time I left a meeting, I didn't regret going :)
    also, LOVE that you're going to treat yourself to rewards that are not food. that was actually something that i learned in WW :)

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  41. I'm a gym rat so this makes me really excited! I love your system and as long as you stick to it, you will be golden baby! The hardest part is the COMMITMENT. You can talk all day about not cheating and hitting the gym everyday but it's those moments when you have to make the decision that are the hardest! The hardest part is physically getting up, changing, and driving to the gym. Once you're there, you're just like "Well, shit, might as well." For me the hardest is the eating part. I love love love food and not the healthy kind. Good luck!!

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  42. I am crawling on weight loss train but it's too hard to manage while I am still a student . I would love to see how it goes for you , so good luckies Sarah :)

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  43. Merp...I've gotta be the most unhealthy out of shape skinny person in Ohio. Its ridiculous. i have access to TWO free gyms...and my pants don't fit. I'm too poor to buy new ones. Ok ok...sign me up I guess :(

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  44. Ugh, I need to work out more too. Sitting on the couch watching old Friends re-runs for the 7000th time in a row isn't healthy, unfortunately! I like your rewards system.

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  45. This is amazing! I have lost about 23lbs in 2 years but I have about 60more to go to be comfortable. I too just made a move to a new place and it's TOUGH. But good luck and this idea is something I may need to steal and adapt for myself :)

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  46. love this! when i moved back to florida I was like, okay now that i'm separated from all my friends + boyfriend, i will make losing weight my job! i have no excuses! i have noone to go out with! lolz ... that did NOT happen! i literally WILL NOT work out after school so I just have to force myself to wake up in the morning. One of my best friends lives here and she works out literally every day of the week but she goes to a boot camp that I don't wan to pay for, so we work out together twice a week. I try to force myself to get in two other times a week so I'm at least working out 4x a week...and every week except last week I've done well ... the problem is now with the eating/drinking. But, I have to make one thing a habit before I start the other because if I try to do both at once I always fail.

    Everyone loves a weight loss post because most of us can relate! Good luck chica! I definitely love the idea of rewarding yourself with shopping :)

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  47. I love the earning system! So much more motivating than counting points! Think I'm going to try this myself!

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  48. I hit the wall and have stuck to it like graffiti. I have tried Weight Watchers online and FAILED! I think I just need to have people to help keep me motivated and accountable. Having goals like yours don't hurt either. I would totally be up for a weekly link up!

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  49. This is amazeballs and I would def do a link up with you! I also need someone or something to assist me with the accountability portion of working out, as I find it to be lame sauce.

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  50. OMG I LOVE THIS!!!! I am on WW and the meetings do help... I have been off the WW wagon for a few weeks due to crazy stuff going on but as of today I am back on it.. You got this girl!!! I am up for a link up too.. I NEED accountability.

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  51. This is amazing! And you can't be too hard on yourself for gaining a little. A new city, new routine, new life, and lack of your standard support system is enough to make anyone fall off the wagon! But I love your plan, I love your reward system, and I'm so excited to read more as you work your way back on down the scale :)

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  52. I just moved to Colorado all on my own, and it is rough. The only person I knew when I moved here was my boss and his family. That was it. I am struggling to make friends. Why can't grown-ups just be like kindergartners? If I like your crayons and you share, we are friends.

    Also, I have gained weight since moving here. I ride my bike to and from work everyday and still managed to gain weight. It is just like you said though, for entertainment and something fun, I go out to eat or order delivery.

    I love the earning system. I think I would be extremely motivated by shopping too!

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  53. Going back to school has RUINED me. I constantly eat out and that's not okay. I just don't know how to change that without taking apples, carrots and pretzels with me everywhere and yesterday proved that was not enough for lunch. Headaches all day. Ugh.

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  54. this is a very creative plan to get fit + get rewarded!!!! love the idea :)

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  55. Wow- what a great way to keep yourself motivated!! And I totally feel you- why can't there be a Match.com for friendships?! Most of my friends are scattered throughout the state (if not the country) and it's been really hard adjusting!

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  56. This is a GREAT plan! I wish you the best of luck!! Weight Watchers really does work. I did it online a few years back and started losing weight quickly, I just got tired of measuring my food. I've recently started it back up again using MyFitnessPal and I've been seeing a huge difference lately. I LOVE adding the calories I burned from working out and seeing the number of calories I get to eat go up. Ha!

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  57. Good lord. You wanna know why I think you don't ever go to the gym? Because you're too busy putting together ridiculously insane over the top amazing informative creative and pretty posts like this one. That's exactly where those pounds came from. Even though I don't see them? I need major help getting my ass to the gym.

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  58. This might be my favorite plan EVER to get fit. I'm totally going to play along with you! Now if I could only make mine look as pretty as yours..

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  59. my advice is schedule workouts like they are part of your job or an apt. and find things that you enjoy. if you don't like the stair-stepper stay off it. there are a LOT of ways to get active so find the ones that interest you

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  60. This is seriously brilliant. I've always struggled with my weight and have tried diets, workout routines, etc. But I've never thought of this. Kudos girlfriend! You're going to do amazing things!

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  61. I have hit a wall too. I woke up this am and saw my tummy and it didn't look flat like it's supposed to first thing in the morning. I just hate working out.. it's sucks so hard. lol
    I wish there was a fun, fast way to lose weight. Although, your points system is a really smart way to go about it. I look forward to seeing you reward yourself after each task is accomplished..!
    An internet "friendship service" is actually such a great idea. No one would want to join at first because they'd feel lame.. and then it would just take off and be so successful that you would feel compelled to join after awhile!
    A month or so ago, a girl and her husband contacted me via facebook because they moved nearby. She knows my sister and her friend on the other side of the country. We ended up going on a friendship double date with our husbands. We're going there tonight for dinner.. It will be our third date. LOL But, it seems to be going well. It's funny the awkward things you'll do to get friends..!! You said it; it's not easy!!
    Good luck Sarah, I have no doubt in my mind that you'll be successful at this.

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  62. I think this is a fantastic idea! I'm going to send this to a friend of mine that is having motivation issues too...maybe this will help her! Good luck and please keep us updated!!

    Also, we need to get together again! uhh..hello! :)

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  63. ahh this is such a good idea! I'm just hoping/planning to tone up a bit before my wedding so I need some motivation. and I love buying myself useless expensive stuff that I totally don't need. i'll probably do a more relaxed version of this since I want to just lose a few inches and I have about 10 months to do it (but never too early to start). good luck with your goals! shopping is a fabulous motivator.
    -- jackie @ jade and oak

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  64. I am totally playing along. Not only will I have extra motivation to hit Pure Barre on the reg, but I'll have prizes-- I LOVE PRIZES!

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  65. I'm absolutely right there with you. I ended up gaining quite a bit a weight moving to South Africa. I just stated weight watchers again … let's keep each other accountable :)

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  66. This is awesome! I gain weight every year in school - and this will help lose weight and save money! What's not to love??

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  67. GIRRRRRRRRRRL!!!!! I am SO DOWN TO THE GROUND (not sure why I made that rhyme) with you!!!!! Flat out honest -- i'm 5'2" weighing in at the 200+ but under 250 lbs. I'm afraid to step back on the scale. I hit 200 last year around the holidays and have never seen anything lower than that in the last year. Okay, I wasn't trying that hard, but i've put in a little effort here and there. I eat out waaaaay to much and stress out over the fact that my damn arms can't fit in long sleeve sheer tops even though those are my favorite tops to wear! in 2012 I put myself on a shopping freeze. I used my money for the sole purpose of buying HEALTHY groceries and worked out (Insanity) like a crazy lady -- Insanity is my shit -- love that stuff. Considering I did the 60-day challenge. I would save money and buy myself two clothing items as long as I felt good in it. Yeah I know, so weird of me. I did weight watchers earlier in the year and the only thing I got out of it was learning how to portion control. I'm thinking of starting a weight loss series of things that worked for me, so I hope you stop by soon. Not too sure if the holidays is a great time to start -- hahaha! I love you Sarah -- okay bye!

    xo Jessika
    Jessclassy.blogspot.com

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    1. Please do start a weight loss series, that sound fantastic!!
      I can’t fit my arms in those tops either. I feel like I’m going to hulk out in them every time I put them on!!!! I have big arms, big legs, big booty….. small waist. Argh. I envy people with tiny legs and tiny arms!!

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  68. I've definitely gained A LOT of weight since entering college, and keep on wanting to focus on weight loss, but then getting distracted. This is such a great and fun way to get started - I'm definitely going to try & stick with you! You genius :)

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  69. I love this! I was just talking to my best friend about how I gained 30+ lbs since moving to Milwaukee after graduation a few years back (and I was already above average weight). I've lost some, but need to lose about 20 more. I'm totally on board with you!

    I also am going to start tracking WW points. I know the calculations, so I'm not doing the actual classes. I love your ideas of getting an "allowance" from working out. That's awesome! I need to look into that. :)

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    1. The WW seems pretty easy to follow. But yeah, those classes, just had NOTHING to do with me. YOU CAN DO IT! WEEE Can do it!

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  70. I think that this is a great plan. You'll get to treat yo-self in so many ways! I can totally relate. At age 32, I have come to realize that I just really, really love food. Like, chowing down just gives me so much pleasure! And so it's a struggle. My boyfriend has a hard time understanding since to him, food is just sustenance. To me it is happiness. Also, I am really digging the Jillian Michaels 30 Day shred. You can download it for really cheap on Amazon instant streaming, so if you're on the road for work, you can work out with your laptop. I dig it because the focus on weight training helps me see that I can also become stronger. It's fun when you realize for the first time that you can finish all of the reps in the workout (it took me almost 2 weeks to get there).

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  71. There really should be a match.com for friends. If there was I wouldn't be alone on my couch stuffing my face full of junk. I'd be out and feeling confident

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  72. This is SUCH a good idea. I've gained quite a bit of weight in the past year or so too, and I'm very unhappy about it. Where do you work out at?

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  73. I think this is a fantastic idea, I wish I'd thought of doing something like this back when I was losing weight, I'd have earned myself a small fortune! I worked out HARD! Wishing you lots of luck with this :).

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  74. You're a genius. If shopping isn't a motivator, I don't know what is (besides cake).

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  75. Lady Sarah, you KNOW I feel your pain, what with the whole 'I bought a wedding dress that is too small" thing. I find your determination admirable and your candor refreshing. I remember reading your About Face post and I thought to myself "Yeah, I think that would be really cool to see a little bit more Serious Sarah Journey-ness up in here". But then I questioned my bias because you know I go all "Dear Diary" on my blog and I could probably use a little more lightness and perhaps even the occasional sports post. Hey! My Steelers hit a home run the other day! Wait. That's not right.

    Can I add the post script that you are beautiful and vibrant and 30 pounds is no match for that beauty? Well I just did.

    And I'm a reply blogger now! Thanks to you and your righteous squirrel tutorial.

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  76. I LOVE THIS POST!!

    I'm actually a "member" of Weight Watchers and it's definitely easy to follow along the plan because you really can eat anything within your points, but I get what you mean about meetings. I go to meetings in Boca Raton and holy old people batman! Always. I love the online community though! You can actually join the community free on their website and they have message boards for age groups and cool people to encourage you. It's a good support system!

    That aside, I LOVE this idea, Sarah!! It's amazing. I have definitely pounds to lose and I want you to make this a link-up so bad! I would totally participate! I will even annoy you with encouragement if it helps because I know when I have people who motivate me it makes the biggest difference!

    You can do it, girl! Thanks for sharing this! I know it's not easy being "vulnerable", but you do it well :)

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  77. OMG, I'm so happy you posted this topic today. I'm right there with you girl! I'm lacking the motivation to hit the gym lately (even though I'm still paying for it!) Dave Ramsey would be ashamed. I would love to play along with you on this journey.

    I think you are right on the money when it comes to an earning system. Set small goals you can attain and reward yourself as you reach each goal. You can do it!

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  78. Love this! And you! I need to drop a few pounds and I like the idea if paying myself to workout!

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  79. This is such a good idea! I've been using MyFitnessPal app to keep track of my calories since last August and just with that, I lost 10 pounds in the first 6 months. It's held me accountable to all the crap I eat. However, now that I'm in grad school I keep forgetting to update it and I snack a little more than before, so I might need to try a plan like your's! Good luck!

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  80. Love these charts and they are great motivation!! GO you!!!! Good luck!!!

    And yes, match.com for friends in a new city, please!!

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  81. Hey! We are addicted to the same things AND I'm in Dallas too! We should become friends IRL - I need a gym buddy anyway!

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  82. I feel like I just took over your blog for the day and explained my situation! Seriously, I am in the same exact boat as you and I am not proud of it. I too have gained 30 pounds since I moved here last year and went to the gym 3 times. The sad thing is that the gym was in walking distance to my apartment And I still had zero motivation. I felt the same way as you explained about not knowing anyone so who is there to impress. It's tough and I need to get back into it too. Best of luck. You'll be motivating me for sure!!

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  83. If you're competitive, you might like this site http://www.dietbetter.com/. Basically, you enter a pool with others on the site and put a bet on yourself like $25. You have to lose a certain % of your weight and however many people hit that goal split the pot. They make you take pictures a certain way with time stamps so they know you're not cheating with the reading on the scale. :)

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  84. Well....I think you started something here my friend... operation "Lose those lbs. that seemed to have stuck on my Bracoo ass" commence!!!!

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  85. You go Glen Coco! In all seriousness now, this is great! I know when I use My Fitness Pal and give myself rewards I do much better at eating healthy. I have been needing to jump on board the healthy train again too.

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  86. Oh my goodness! This is just awesome Sarah! You can do it! I want to join along. I love the accountability and earning what I spend.

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  87. Long time reader, first time commenter...

    Just wanted to say that your honesty in this post was really refreshing... Workout suggestion: Put on some booty music and shake it like you're in a rap video. Quick and effective.

    Stay positive and don't be too hard on yourself! Good luck!

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  88. I'm with you on this one! When I moved to Toronto, I knew no one. I still don't really know anyone and my regular lifestyle has gotten into a bit of a rut. This is a great idea!

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  89. I gained 20 pounds the year. I've lost 10 of those pounds so far. I use the myfitnesspal app

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  90. I love this such a great idea! If you need any ideas for workouts you can check out my workout section on my blog :)

    -Elise @ 9toFit.com

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  91. Good for you for coming up with a PLAN and doing something to change what you aren't happy with! I was in the exact same place early last year. I lost 25 lbs and it took me 6 months, but I've been able to KEEP it off which is really what I was most concerned about. I mean, I've dieted before and I've crashed and burned and gained the weight back. This time around I didn't think of it as a diet but as a LIFESTYLE. I don't count calories because that would drive me crazy. I just don't eat "junk" like I used to. We don't keep junk in our home either because it would be too tempting. Everything is whole grain, brown, etc. What's worked for me is sticking to that 90% of the time and then the other 10% is a free for all. I need cheat days or I'll slide into cheating EVERY day. Good luck to you! I'll be cheering you on! :D

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  92. I think its that time of year, the weather starts to get cold (at least in the Midwest) so its harder to peel yourself off of the couch to get to the gym. I am totally guilty right now! I just worked out HARD for the first time last night and I'm FEELING it! But that's what I miss! I felt fab after going, and you will too! But one other thing to remember is that diet is a huge part of weight loss. I'm not saying go crazy and nix everything except chicken and broccoli, but cut back on some carbs, sweets, and drinking (GASP - don't hate me!) Either way, I totally support you putting everything out there!

    -AJ
    FitTravelerAJ.com

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  93. have you heard of gympact? you should check it out.. It helps keep me accountable for working out. You get paid to workout, and you also pay them for NOT working out.

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  94. i don't think i realized you live in dallas - i do too!! what gym do you go to? i was doing awesome and going to the gym every day and i've been seriously slacking lately. i've GOT to get back on track!

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  95. Love this real talk Ms.Sarah! I have gained almost 40 lbs since my breakup this time a year ago and it's just awful to think about. I have moments where I'm great with my routine, but just plain overeating has gotten me to this point. I love your reward system though. We can do this!

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  96. I feel your pain. extra lbs suckkkk. you can do it though :] I'm at 19 lbs lost...60-ish to go. Ugh. That's such a huge number. But I'm also huge. Get after it! I look forward to reading your progress posts!

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  97. I totally see me in your post! I just moved in a new town when I don't know anyone and it is so difficult for me to meet new friends. I eat while watching tv and I don't go to gym (but I have to because it is expensive).
    I will follow your posts and try to inspire me with your goals!!

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  98. GIRL! Yes, yes, YES! I am with you. 1 - I ask my fiance (who I met on match.com) multiple times a WEEK why there is no match.com for friends. 2 - I am totally motivated by shopping and HATE to work out. I am joining you - if you make it a link up, I will be there. Thanks for the inspiration - I am now considering you my workout buddy. You can totally do this, girl - look at all these people behind you posting their support <3

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  99. I just moved to Dallas a couple months ago and only know about 5 people total, so Im totally in the same boat. This is not an easy place to meet people as an adult, I have learned that very quickly.
    I am a member at 24 hr and just started doing BodyPump on Tuesday nights! Let me know if you ever want to come along!

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  100. That is an amazing plan!!! I love the idea!

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  101. I've been thinking about this all so much lately. I am in!

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  102. I love the idea of the piggy bank!!! What an awesome system!! I can't wait to read about all of your success! I started a monthly goal link up simply because I need to post about my goals of loosing weight! If other people are holding you accountable the more successful you will be! Good luck! You will do great!

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  103. I've run into the wall repeatedly. Why is is so hard for me to just commit to getting back in shape? Maybe rewards would help to motivate me more. I'm in!

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  104. I agree on the "why is there no match.com for friendships". My husband and I have been talking about moving somewhere new and I fear that it will be hard to make new friends, but it has always been something I wanted to do. We even thought about DALLAS!

    Since getting married, I haven't gone to the gym as much as I used to. Heck even before getting engaged, I went to the gym at least 4 times a week. Now I flucuate from 1 to 3 times a week. I need to get my butt in gear and go at least 3 times a week no matter what. Luckily, we are getting snow, so I can start snowboarding which supplements my workouts.

    I would love to do the link-up.

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  105. Absolutely love this post!! I moved to Dallas a year and half ago and at that point I was already on a weight loss journey and had lost 25 pounds. Then boom...I got into a serious relationship and got comfortable and gained 18 pounds. Womp Womp. But I'm getting back into it and this will be perfect motivation. One thing I recommend getting into is Spinning. Zumba is nice and all but Spinning is AMAZING. I once burned 800 calories in a 45 min class. I used to live in Uptown and would go to the Spinning class at LA Fitness. I still go back sometimes for Jillian's class (shes the best spinning instructor to ever live) If you ever wanna go, I can def be your gym buddy! Oh and for the friend thing...highly recommend meetup.com. I met my group of friends that way when I moved to Dallas. I'm gonna look into it again apparently they have dog meetups too.

    Stick with it girl! I know you can do this.

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  106. I'm behind on reading my blogs, but this post hits home. I have gained 30 pounds since starting my new job. I have never seen that number and never wanna see it again. On a mission to lose! Good luck!!

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  107. Okay, so I'm really late getting to this post but I love the idea! In fact, I have already mentioned that there will be updates coming soon on the blog (maybe tomorrow or Sunday). A link up sounds awesome, unless you're already doing that and I haven't gotten around to that one yet either! :)

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  108. OKAY SO I READ THIS and was like omg such a good idea. and then i got to thinking how frustrated i am for gaining the freshman fifteen last year, and how i'm going back home to my tropical island of a home and i'm not bikini ready, and i started thinking that i'm probably gonna gain the sophomore twenty. and i wanna cry, so i just joined weight watchers yesterday. just went online and signed up ad i'm so glad and i think this is a fabulous idea and i'm gonna follow it ! okay thanks girlfriend.. i'm offish gonna tweet you my points dilemmas from now on <3

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  109. I love the idea of putting money in and saving to buy things and reward yourself. I mean who doesn't like a reward after all that hard work. The blogging community will help you. We have your back always! You go work and earn that lulu lemon outfit!

    xo. Kailagh

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  110. I'm like SUPER late to this party but I love it! I am borrowing this idea for my own little chart thingy that I am definitely using this for my own goals and work outs ! I love this idea so much!

    Renee @ Gettin' Fit Fab

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  111. What the hell?! How did I never see this?! Love the idea! But umm, what if I'm not motivated by shopping :(

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