Terra's Blog

I started writing this blog in 2007 and continue today, hoping it will make its way to anyone who feels stuck while trying to make lifestyle changes to live at a healthy weight. Changing behaviors can be tricky if we don’t evaluate our perspective and adjust our expectations and mindset. I believe the foundation of lasting behavior change starts with four key elements:  

1.) Self-compassion 2.) A growth mindset 3.) Joy in the journey 4.) Gratitude   

Self-compassion is recognizing our humanity.  It’s realizing and accepting that no human can be perfect 100% of the time. Therefore, when we make choices that aren’t in line with our goals, it’s an opportunity to learn, modify and move forward. This is called a Growth Mindset, and it leads to lasting success and facilitates joy in the journey! The fourth foundation of lasting behavior change is the practice of gratitude for today and using the good feeling energy of appreciation to propel us forward into the actions we want to take.

Hello Old Friend….My Dear Crockpot

It's not quite fall yet, but with school starting earlier than normal this year for most school districts around here, many of us are preparing to get back to more of a daily routine. This includes meal planning and for that, there's nothing better than a good...

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You’re Perfect Today!

Don't let the number on the scale define you or determine your mood today. I know it's easy to do, but it's a lie. Because you are not at your absolute dream weight (which is like chasing an mirage, by the way) does by NO MEANS mean that you are not perfect and whole...

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Super Chocolate Sorbetto

Located on Third Street in charming downtown Geneva is The All Chocolate Kitchen, pictured below. I know many of you that receive my blog are not living the Geneva area, so I apologize for not reaching a bigger audience with this post....but it's such a good one I...

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Don’t Wait…

....to be at your "goal weight" before you allow yourself to be happy. Our lives are now and acceptance of where we are in our journey at this moment brings us peace. Somedays it's tough to do, but the goal is to enjoy the journey. Find things to be grateful for right...

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What’s Truly Important Today?

http://youtu.be/uaWA2GbcnJU When I watched this video, which of course at first I told myself I didn't have time to do, it made me really stop and think about my priorities. It instantly gave me an emotional dose of what I believe to be "the BIG picture" of life. It...

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Olive Garden Tips

Olive Garden Tips

Terra, I like to meet one of my old high school girlfriends (who is also a WW Lifer) at Olive Garden. We can have long chats and stay on track if we order the endless soup and salad bowl: We choose the Minestrone soup or Pasta e fagioli soup - both are good options...

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YooHoo

YooHoo

Good morning!! Just passing along a little sweet treat that I've really been enjoying lately and thought you might too. It's especially great on hot afternoons when you need a sweet, refreshing pick-me-up. Woohoo...or should I say Yooohoo??? I'm normally a Starbucks...

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Zucchini Spaghetti

Zucchini Spaghetti

This recipe/food idea came from Gretchen, a Lifetime member who is successfully keeping off the roughly 50lbs she lost years ago. She's a phenomenal cook and has such creative ideas for fresh, flavorful food. Thanks for sharing...love your ideas...and congrats on your...

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Good Morning:-)

Good Morning:-)

"If you think you aren’t the leader of your life, you’re wrong. Except that, since you actually are the leader of your life, you’ll make yourself right. When you dictate “I am powerless!” your life will obediently comply with your policies." ~ There’s No Such Thing as...

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Pineapple Angel Food Cake

Pineapple Angel Food Cake

Good morning, everyone! This Tasty Tuesday food idea has been around for many years, but many of us have forgotten about it or never heard of it at all. A big thanks to Helen for sending it to me because it's definitely an oldie but a goody!! And yes, it really is as...

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Go Girls Go!!!!

Go Girls Go!!!!

A huge shout out to all the ladies in the Fox Valley who completed the Dick Pond's 10 week Walk to Run program!!! You're inspiring and amazing! Today is your big event.....you're doing your 5k!!! Whether you walk it, run it or do a little of both just remember you are...

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Miso Ginger Soup with Cilantro Chicken Wontons

Miso Ginger Soup with Cilantro Chicken Wontons

Good morning!! This food combo idea comes from Luanne and we've discussed it a couple of times in our Weight Watchers meetings. It's simple, delicious and filling. I'd say that about covers all the criteria for an awesome Tasty Tuesday post!!!!!! Thanks, Luann!!! The...

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Power Foods

Power Foods

I'm really trying to eat "clean" these days. Yes, it helps with weight management, but my motivation is even more about feeling my best. I don't know if it comes with age or if I just notice it more now, but when I eat a lot of processed foods I have less energy and...

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Waldorf Chicken Salad

Good morning, everyone!!! This Tasty Tuesday comes to us from Lynne in Geneva. Thanks for sharing, Lynne!!! Hi Terra.... Here’s something we came up with for the warmer days coming up. The thing we like is that we can change up the spices and the fruit to come up with...

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