Anyway, today is day 31 of my self-proclaimed 100-Day Transformation (cue parting clouds and cherubs) or Phase 4. Wait, what happened to phases 2 and 3? Well, they came - and went. Best intentions, and all, you know. I did cut out a lot of processed foods and I don't remember that last fast food meal I've had. But, Starbuck's before classes is all too easy. I also added back meat and I've made my own chicken and beef stocks. Really good, too. Oh, and I made it to the gym twice - which is a big deal since I really do loathe the gym.
The tale of the scale is a bit depressing: I've been up and down the past 30 days - nothing too dramatic - but this morning I'm pretty much back to where I was on day 1. However - and here's the silver lining - by my body measurements** I've lost 4.5 inches in total, 2 of which are from my waist. I actually pointed out to Mark over the weekend that my pants are looser.
For Phase 4, here are my goals:
- Gym OR vigorous physical activity (like bike riding) every day
- Be mindful of sugar, but don't replace with artificial sweeteners
- Continue removing processed and fast foods - which includes:
- No Starbuck's before class!! If I need coffee, I can make it and bring it with me.
Oh - and here's a gratuitous cute shot of Cosmo out on the bike with me
One of the reasons for no blog activity has been school. Currently, I'm in the Graduate Diploma in Professional Accounting program at Suffolk University. I'm taking four classes: Graduate Accounting I, Cost Accounting, International Accounting I, and Federal Tax I. I'm really enjoying being a full-time student again but the classes require a good bit of work outside of the classroom (I should be reading right now). I got a 100 on my first writing assignment (TAX 801).
I'm planning four more classes in the spring semester. I also think that I will transfer into the Master of Science in Accounting program.
School's all and good, you say, but what about a job? I'm still, kinda, looking, but I'm decided to focus on school right now. I keep an eye on HigherEdJobs.com and Indeed.com and network when I can. If the right job came along - especially part-time - I'd jump at it.
I'm also still a candidate for a financial management officer with the U.S. Department of State in the foreign service. I went through the foreign service officer candidate process last October through May (didn't quite get it) and when the FMO foreign service specialist recruitment announcement opened in June I signed right up. I made it through one basic round and am waiting on the Qualifications Evaluation Panel to review my application and information and hopefully invite me to an oral assessment. With the government shutdown now, though...Fingers crossed!
Finally, I've been trying to sneak in some sewing time. Unfortunately, I don't have as much time for it because of school. I love, love Craftsy. Fun classes and good tips and tricks. Right now I've switched from shirts to pants and am drafting and testing a few patterns. Nothing to show at this stage, but soon. Next weekend Mark and I will be in New York and I'm definitely going to stop by Mood.
Oh, speaking of New York: we're going because we have tickets to see Mildred Fierce, a Ryan Landry and the Gold Dust Orphans production starring Varla Jean Merman. It's only in New York through October, so if you're in the area I suggest you see it while you can.
**Neck, Chest, Waist, Hips, Seat, Biceps, Thighs.
