A Miracle Happened… 19 years ago today!

When I first found out I was pregnant, we were very happy, yet extremely anxious at the same time.  I had been told during my teenage years that I would never be able to carry a baby to term, given my severe and complex heart condition.

I arrived at the Toronto General Hospital Special Pregnancy Unit for a consultation at 10 weeks.  The doctors suggested that I terminate the pregnancy, because it was so risky for me. 

I guess even at that stage a mother’s instinct kicks in.  I just knew that everything would be okay.  I had this miracle growing inside me, now it was up to God and a special medical team to see it through.  I told them that termination was not an option.  I would do anything and go through anything to have this child.

First Pilates Class

I have been going to my gym since 2003.  I usually just work by myself and do my workouts, which consist of both cardio and strength training.  I attended a couple classes a few years ago, but found them quite challenging considering the limitations of my exercise tolerance due to my congenital heart condition.

I have looked in on the classes from a spot out on the gym floor and often wondered if I had the capacity to participate… perhaps I wanted to feel a sense of belonging or just wanting to try new things to change it up a bit, but I never did…. until today!

The Biggest Loser – I am a fan!

I started watching The Biggest Loser I think around season 7, so not too long ago.  My friend Jen got me interested in the show, and I have been watching it ever since.  The funny thing is… somewhere mid-last season, my hubby started to watch it with me, and now he is a fan too.  We watch it every week together along with our 9 year old, Cass!  Of course she does not get to stay up to watch the whole thing.  But she does love the show.

I was really happy to see it go back to couples this season.   I think having the support of a partner going through the same thing with you would make it easier.  It must be difficult to spend that much time away from family and every day life… but I have to commend the contestants that put life on hold to be there and do something for themselves – changing their lives!  It would take a lot of courage to expose so much of yourself on National TV.

What to do when your cardiovascular exercise isn't working anymore!

Tips to get you back on track! 
We've been taught that performing cardiovascular exercise for 20 to 30 minutes at a target heart rate of 60 to 80 percent is the best way to lose your excess fat. Yes, it can be. But, what do you do when you have hit that weight loss plateau and your cardio workout isn't working any more? 

Chocolate – 100 Calorie Treats! :)

I am an admitted chocoholic!   I love my chocolate.  I would eat it every single day if it didn’t go right to my hips and tummy!  But when you are trying to eat healthy or are on a calorie restricted diet, then sometimes you can feel like you are going without, if you cannot have any chocolate!

I do indulge in the Isadelights from Isagenix.  They are a 50 calorie very healthy dark chocolate snack.  But once in a while I love to have milk chocolate.  It is my absolute favourite.  So I am always trying new things like the Fibre Plus bars, or the Special K Bars. 

Today I came across an article from E-Diets that offers the Top 10 Chocolate Treats (for 100 calories or less), so I thought I would share it with you.  Some great ideas that I am sure going to try!
 Top 10 Chocolate Treats

Enjoy!
Have an Amazing Day