Thursday, June 30, 2011

Tiny Tulips/Framed, $47.00, Painting #9 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE, Original Tulip Flower Miniature Painting by Kimberly Conrad


Original 2.5x3" miniature tulip painting framed. This is painting is #9 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE, $4.70 WILL GO TO BREAST CANCER RESEARCH!!

Visit by website to see larger paintings www.kimberlyconradfineart.com

$47.00







Yesterday was the end of WEEK 1 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE

Well...it was not great..but it was a start...

I did cardio 4 out of 7 days with a total of 145 minutes.
60 min, 35 min, 15 min, 35 min
I did at least 47 situps 4 of 7 days.
I increased my water intake significantly on some days..but was still awful on other days.
I did post a $47.00 painting every day.


Here are my goals for week 2 which begins today:

*Drink 60 0z of water ( or my super weak, barely tea iced tea) each day

* 47 to 100 situps daily

* 60 minutes of cardio 3 days and 30 minutes of cardio 3 days
( I would like to do a power walk a 3 mornings a week, in addition to the other cardio, which I usually do at night.)

*strength training--- 2 days
triceps- biceps-legs one day/ chest back & shoulders the other
probably only 2 sets of one exercise for each muscle group this week....we will see how sore I am

* eat at least 3 times each day
*shoot for 75 carbs or less daily (does not include lettuce, celery, etc..they are free)
*post a $47.00 painting each day

Here is my new one.....as fellow artist Kelli Miller is helping me with drawing...I will sketch
something in my sketchbook every day.

So.... I have BIG goals for this week....I am one to always set the bar high...then if I don't quite make it, I am in a better place than if I set the bar low and didn't quite make it...BUT..I just MIGHT make it!!!!



9:48 a.mI slept from 1:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. 8 hours..YEAH!!!That is a great start to week #2.This post is late, as blogger would not allow me to upload images last night, I know many were having that issue, but it seems to be resolved now.
Going to have my coffee, finish first round of email, then go for a walk.
Feel a bit queasy...can't eat yet....gotta have that coffee first!!!

3:30 p.m.- I had a bowl of light soup for lunch with 8 sun chips and a big glass of iced tea....didn't get that walk in.....have been at my desk...stopping now for a bit to do some chores... and get another big glass of tea:)

7:23 p.m.I have been trying to clean and paint...but the boyz had other ideas!!! This is the scoop...I wrote a beautiful song for oldest Mike 5 years ago when he left for college, I then rewrote the verses (same chorus) for Mason when he left, and have been working on Matts, version, as he leaves in August... Well the boyz decided they want to ROAST BIG BROTHER MIKE FAREWELL TONIGHT (he leaves in the morning for his new job in San Francisco)...by rewriting his song in a way that ONLY BROTHERS COULD...( i can certainly NOT share the lyrics) but I have been at the piano accompanying them as they are writing...we are taking a break...,so I thought I'd write..they are planning costumes etc....it will be a late night performance... after Dad gets home....

I had tuna celery and 2 oz of cheese for dinner at 7:00...so not enough to eat yet today,,,gotta eat more...will try to work out before they get back and resume writing!!!


8:30 p.m. had a soft taco from taco bell....got way too hungry ...and Mason had an extra he didn't want....not too many calories or carbs, as they are tiny, but certainly NOT healthy!!

11:45-Got to paint, clean a little!!! Heading to bed....Had another piece of cheese
with tuna rolled up inside,8 chips.....water, and a small Skinny Girl margarita..at 10:00...if you haven't ready my previous posts Skinny Girl Margaritas are low alcohol, low cal, low carb..they are very similar to a light wine cooler....did not get cardio in, as we were doing our special thing with Mike...so..that means I have to do all 6 of the next days to meet my goal!! I will do the 47 situps right before bed!!! NOT enough water today, but I did eat 4 times!!!
Thank you for the wonderful emails today....!!!

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Threads of Yellow-Reflected, 5x7, $47.00, Painting #8 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE,Original Contemporary Abstract Landscape Sunset Skyscape Paintings, Colorado Contemporary Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad


Original painting on 5x7 heavy watercolor paper.This painting is shipped with a mat(see upper right hand column) which may be used in an 8x10 frame, or the mat may be discarded, and you can frame in a standard 5x7 frame.Mats vary in color, dependent on the painting.This is painting #8 of the Club 47 challenge, and $4.70 will be donated to the Breast Cancer community. See my Art for the Cure blog to learn more. Visit my Website to see Large paintings. www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

$47.00






3:09 p.m I was in bed by 11:00 p.m. last night...yeah for me!!!!! Getting more normal....did NOT end up doing cardio last night...truthfully....just felt cruddy...if you read my blog yesterday..I was fairly down in the dumps ( as my Mother would say)...and it just carried into my night.

First a big Thank You to Patty who bought yesterday's CLUB 47 painting!!!!

I started the day off with coffee on the run..had to be down town early this morning to trade art out at Stella's on S. Pearl street..if you live in Denver area and have not been there..you must go..it is a very COOL Place...and the walls are FULL OF ART!!!

Went from there to a farewell extended family lunch for my niece and son who are both leaving for their new lives on Friday....I had a lean burger wrapped in lettuce no bun.....totally on my program....and small salad.....had some SWEET POTATO FRIES...AS WELL, totally NOT on my program....had a big glass of iced tea....am way behind on fluids today.

Have been at my desk since lunch....heading to the patio to paint now....the painting I started yesterday I am NOT happy with....so will decide whether to FIX it, or start a new one!!!! I did get the iced tea made and will take a big glass out with me...more later......


9:24 p.m.OMG..I have to STOP eating out!!!!! Went to dinner with my dear friend Trudy..we try to meet twice a month...had a SALAD which was fine..had a margarita...NOT on the program...good news is..she and I are jogging at 10:00...boy trying undo the damage is sooo not fun.....

11:07.p.m.Oh man..... we did NOT go jogging....I have not been good today in eating, drinking water or exercising. Today is the end of week 1. Tomorrow is the beginning of a week 2!!! I will have a summary of the week on my post tomorrow with week #2's goals!!!

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

SOLD!!!! Thank You Patty!! Field of Color #7, 5x7, $47.00, Painting #7 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE, Original contemporary Abstract floral landscape Paintings by Colorado Abstract Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad


Painting #7 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE...Original "poured" painting on 5"x7" textured canvas board. This painting will fit a standard 5x7 frame, it does not need glass.I apologize, I have a new camera, and it is giving me FITS with the focus on the 5x7's, I think I need to take a class!!!! Anyway, it is a lovely little painting and $4.70 will go to breast cancer research.

$47.00

7:03 a.m-- I was asleep by 12:30 a.m....Yeah for me!!!! Out the door now to Starbucks ( we have no 1/2 & 1/2 in the house). I CANNOT drink coffee with 1 percent
milk!!!! Thank you to all of those who sent wonderful emails yesterday, and know that I am praying for you ...that you have success in your challenge.
I am shooting for 60 minutes of cardio today (In whatever combination of minutes!!)
I am also going to paint a little still life or plein air in addition to my Club 47 piece... more later....HAPPY TUESDAY!!!!!

8:45 a.m.Son # 1 made me eggs.....so I started my day with 2 scrambled eggs!!!

2:07 p.m. Just finished teaching a 3 hour clinic.....a few of my favorite teenaged girls (weekly students when they were younger)..we were outside...and baby it is hot here!!!!!.( forgot to write earlier...I had an Atkins protein shake during my clinic, an 45 calorie popsicle)....then Miss Molly and I had to go get McDonalds Ice Cream cone..I guess that's lunch...no..I will eat a piece of lunch meat...need the protein....we have a going away dinner for Son # 1, Mike tonight...he got his dream jog with a fabulous company in San Francisco, and will be leaving us on Friday morning....I'm so excited for him....so sad for me..... going out to paint on the patio!!!

4:51.p.m.Getting ready to go work out....I had 5 pieces of 3"round salami, and two 45 calorie popsicles since my last post...it is so hot....I need to make my sugar free flavored iced tea so I won't eat popsicles......argh!!!! I am feeling a little down today, and frankly.,,pretty ticked.

Okay..I have promised to share even the bad....so... This morning, I had to run to Hobby Lobby as soon as they opened to get bigger palette knifes for my clinic...I was rushing to get back before my students arrived...as soon as I closed my car door....this woman knocked on my window...and
said she and her family had been on the road for two days and her credit card was rejected at the gas station,(she pointed to an old white car) and could I please spare a few $$$ for gas. So....because I was in a hurry I opened my wallet...all I had was two 1's and a twenty...so., of course, I gave her the twenty....at which time she said "bless you" and ran back to a SHINY NICE LITTLE SILVER CAR ...which quickly sped away. Well I am the girl that almost always gives to the guys with the signs...(I only don't if I have no $$$ in my wallet or if I can't get to them before the light turns.....I know many are crooks...but I figure, I have to answer to GOD regarding helping someone who appears to be in need...and THEY are accountable to the same GOD if they are ripping me off...so..that being said....I usually feel okay with giving even if I am suspicious...but for some reason I was sooooooo angry today....truthfully, I really needed that $20.00 it truly was a sacrifice to give it away.....$$$ is very tight right now for us ( and the rest of the world I know)...
I cried and ranted and raved in my car all the way home!!!!! I came in the house still crying and ranting...and my son just called me crazy...which made me cry more....ANYWAY, THAT'S my sob story for the day...I know I'm blessed, I know I am God's child and he loves me and sees everything...I know it's such a "nothing thing" in the scheme of things...but I am still ticked and sad...hours later..... in fact, I am crying now....okay..I'm done..more later...oh...and my painting today stunk...


8:04.p.m.Did not work our yet..the guys came home ready for dinner. I had 1/2 a lean beef hamburger patty with cheese, mushrooms, and a small helping of broccoli cheese casserole...and big glass of iced tea....will paint for a bit now..then work out...more later...

Monday, June 27, 2011

SOLD...Thanks Shirley!!...Life In Circles, Blue III, 11x14, $47.00 Painting # 6 of the CLUB 47 Challenge,Original Contemporary Abstract Expressionism Painting by Colorado Abstract Artist Kimberly Conrad

Original palette knife acrylic painting on 11x14x7/8 gallery wrapped canvas.
Ready to hang...$4.70 will be donated to Breast Cancer Research.....

YES...this is larger painting than the usual Club 47 pieces.....Once a week I will put a LARGER painting in the CLUB 47 Challenge....but it will be a random day each week...so you will have to log on daily to check. (Most of the daily CLUB 47 paintings will be 5x7, 8x8 or 8x10 on paper, or 6x6, 8x8 on canvas.)Again....once a week, I will put in a larger one:)

More later:)



1:34 a.m.It is technically Monday...so I will say "GOOD MORNING", but I am just heading to bed...so I will chat with you later this morning!!!:)

2:40 a.m.- Oh My.....I am still at my desk...have been posting and doing ADMIN...REALLY...I will now do my 47 situps and go to bed.....

10:18 a.m.Got to sleep about 3:30 this morning...I have now had a glass of water and a cup of coffee.....while at mt desk, of course...It's gonna be a GREAT day..I just know it!!!!

2:00 p.m.I have been at my desk all day thus far...BUT...my desk today is my patio table with my laptop...which I must say has been awesome!!!!! My office is a dark room....not good for my Vitamin D deficiency.I did have 3 thin slices of lean roasted turkey lunch meat and 2 pieces of cheese at 12:15 for lunch...with a big glass of water....at my "desk" of course!!!:)
Will break now to do a few chores, then PAINT!!!!

10:11 p.m.Just finished my 35 minutes of my little neighborhood jog-walk-jog---ONLY...I jogged the whole time tonight after a 90 second warm up....there is a big hill at the end.....and I wanted to walk it...but after missing cardio yesterday...I could NOT allow myself to walk!!!

At 4:30 I had a frank (leftovers) NO BUN of course....just a frank, 8 sun chips, and a big glass of water..then a 20 oz bottle of water.....at 7:30 p.m. I had 3 celery stalks,a spoon of roasted red pepper dip, 4 small )3 " round" pieces of salami and 10 sun chips....I have got to stop with the chips...we usually don't even have them in the house..but the boyz picked them up when we grilled hot dogs. I need to take the time to make up some tuna salad, homemade soup, etc...have just had no time since I started this challenge on Thursday.
I am still not eating enough...but am making improvements in that and my water intake. I will never lose weight if I don't start eating a little more. I know that sounds odd, but I have been gaining on very little food, which is a sure sign that my body holds onto fat when it's hungry!!!

I never did get to chores today.....my desk job was insane!!!!
I am going to pick up a bit now and prepare for the clinic I am teaching here tomorrow from 10:00-1:00 and work a bit more on my painting.

A very wonderful woman emailed me today that her DR told her because she is middle aged....she would only lose weight if she exercised hours a day like the people on "the Biggest Loser" That simply is NOT true and honestly, I'd like to smack him for saying such a thing...shame on him...even if it were true ( which it's not) losing weight is very "mental" and what a discouraging thing to say. We do have challenges to work around at our age...and sometimes it takes a little time to see what works and find that losing stride...BUT IT CAN BE DONE AND I AM GOING TO PROVE IT, AND ANYONE WHO WANTS TO, CAN CALL AND CHAT WITH ME. ( It is true that when we plateau, and as we get closer to our goal and set weight,we do have to amp up the exercise, to keep losing, but that is not what he said).
My food intake the past few days that I have been sharing is NOT GOOD,I am having to completely retrain habits and old habits are hard to break and new habits are hard to make.. but I DO know what to do and will do it!!!!:)

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Incoming IV, 5x7, $47.00Painting #5 of the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE, Original Contemporary Abstract Seascape Paintings,Colorado Abstract Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad

Original painting on 5"x7" heavy watercolor paper.This painting is shipped with a mat which may be used in an 8x10 frame, or the mat may be discarded, and you can frame in a standard 5x7 frame.Mats vary in color, dependent on the painting.This is painting #3 of the Club 47 challenge, and $4.70 will be donated to the Breast Cancer community. See my Art for the Cure blog to learn more. Visit my Website to see Large paintings. www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

$47.00






I will be continuing the Life In Circles series, and adding some at 47.00 to the CLUB 47 Challenge...it was a popular series...so check back to see the new pieces!!!
Also..more floral pieces coming soon!!


12:45 p.m. Hi ALL.....Regarding comments..because they were not showing up......I changed he settings to moderate comments..just to see if that made a difference, and it did...once they go through moderation..they DO show up..but for some reason, in the left hand column of my blog, as opposed to under the post...so you can leave them, but they show up there...

I slept from 2:00 a.m until NOON!!!! I am bummed that I missed church...but have not slept much this past week, and it was wonderful..I feel like a new girl.
Gonna drink a big glass of water..get my coffee, and head downtown....the boyz and I...we have to take 6 cars down to pick up my large paintings that were on exhibit at the Mortgage West building last month....big job..will be happy to see it done!!!!
Because the paintings are "poured". they are very smooth..no texture..and very easily scratched or damaged, so we can only put a few in each car...

More later:) HAPPY SUNDAY!!!!!! OH...I DID DO MY SITUPS BEFORE BED...BUT ONLY ONE SET OF 47...MY TUMMY IS STILL SORE FROM OVERDOING A BIT THE FIRST DAY!!!!

11:55 p.m. NOT GREAT SUCCESS TODAY!!!!! I was running from the time I got up until 10:30 p.m. Art take down...transporting it to my climate controlled Art storage, and in and out of a zillion stores trying to find cushions for my back patio...then worked on the back patio and back yard ( still not finished!!!).
I had three 20 calorie popscicles..grabbing one three of the times that I stopped back at the house...and drank three 20 oz bottles of water while running errands....
then at about 6:30 a hot dog ( the boys grilled) no bun..just plain frank with a spoon of roasted red pepper dip and 6 chips....then off and running again....

Then had a small piece of leftover salmon, a spoon of red pepper dip and 6 chips and a Skinny Girl margarita at 10:30 p.m. yes...a horrible day of eating all around...and NO exercise...and I was planning to do extra cardio today!!!!!
What is a Skinny Girl Margarita??? It was created by Bethany Frankel one of the original gals from the "Real Housewives of New York" I think she was a chef/nutritionist or something like that...it is low alcohol, low cal , low carb..anyway I really admire her SPUNK...she tried to sell the idea to all of big liquor companies...who LAUGHED AT HER AND SAID NO...she went ahead on her own...and made it a huge success( check your local liquor store)it is in every state...and she just sold the company to one of the original (LAUGHERS)I KNOW THAT'S NOT A WORD....for multi millions..maybe even billions,..I don't remember...but GOOGLE IT..I LOVE her determination and staying power!!!!!

So..tomorrow is a new day my friends, let's GO FOR IT!!!!...I just finished basing canvases, and worked on a little still life, which I may or may not share..I am an ABSTRACT artist...who is learning to draw and paint a little more traditionally..YIKES!!!!

Thank you for your wonderful encouraging emails today..and I will get the new pledges posted tomorrow!!!!:):)


1:16 a.m. I will have one more bottle of water..do my situps..then heading to bed....the boys all came in around 12:00 and we sat out on the patio and chatted..and they ATE...again..boys their age always eat again late...right before bed......I love chatting with them late when they come in.....they are tired and loose lipped and I learn A LOT!!!!!!!!!!.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Reflections of Blue, $47.00 , Painting # 4 of the CLUB 47 Challenge, Original Contemporary Abstract Landscape Paintings, Colorado Contemporary Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad

Original 5x7 painting on heavy watercolor paper.This painting is shipped with a mat to fit an 8x10 framed. You may also discard the mat..and frame in a standard 5x7 frame. This painting is #4 of the CLUB 47 Challenge,.....$4.70 will be donated to the Breast Cancer community. Visit my Art for the Cure Site
Visit my website to see larger paintings www.kimberlyconradfineart.com

$47.00





I had many emails yesterday with lots of questions..and I answered them all on my post last night....see the post below this one!!!!

I will be gone all day today ...have a little show about 1 1/2 hours away...have packed a little chest with celery,cheese,turkey,nuts and water...my big hat sunglasses and sunscreen...will be sitting a lot so will certainly need that hour of cardio tonight.


6:47 p.m. Back form the show a couple of hours ago....it was a BUST...as i was afraid it might be, but I wanted to go anyway...knowing i would get to spend the day with my friends and fellow daily painters Susan Fowler, Miriam Brock and Pam Holnback....it was great to be out with GIRLS!! I live in a MAN WORLD!!!!:)

I had a protein shake and bottle of water on the road early this morning ___yeah for me!!!!!

Had celery, cheese, a fresh tomato and red pepper dip for lunch out of the ice chest (forgot the turkey)..it was great but I was STARVED when I got home and had a small piece of last nights salmon, another tomato and some celery about 5:00 p.m.

I also had an 8 oz and a 20 oz bottle of water at the show and a 20 oz bottle on the way home!!!!
Yeah for me!!!!

THEN..... after the salmon..I had half of a Wendys kid size chocolate ice cream thingy..what is it called???? I think it might even be frozen yogurt...anyway...no more carbs allowed today ...that was it. A Frosty...That's what it's called....but only half of the kid size..needed comfort food!!!!

I only slept 2 hours last night (NOT ON PURPOSE!!!)....JUST COULD NOT SLEEP....SO WILL TRY TO GET THERE BEFORE MIDNIGHT TONIGHT.

I am at Starbucks writing this...when I got home my internet was down...so came here to write and answer mail...gotta run...the puppies were home alone for a long time today
( the men were golfing)...will post more later when HUBBY gets home and gets the internet back up!!!!

Oh....yes...the situps..I did NOT do them last night..I was super sore from Thursday nights situps....but will do them tonight....more later:)

And....Thanks for ALL of the WONDERFUL emails today!!!!!
I will get the new pledges posted tomorrow!!!

11:29 p.m. Well....just as i was getting ready to work out..at 8:25...our dear friends whom we don't get to see nearly enough ( though they live 5 minutes away)called and invited us over for a cocktail..
( in 35 minutes)..how wonderful and ADULT!!!!! So we went.....but I ran up..jumped on the lifecycle for 15 hard fast minutes...really..no warm up..just fast pedaling..got super sweaty ( I figured that was better than NO workout at all)then a 2 minute shower and fresh clothes.. I had Skinny Girl Margaritas , chips and Salsa....so a small setback...in that I had a few more carbs...but still not a great many calories for the day...and it was SOOOO worth it....they have a gorgeous resort feeling patio/back yard..the breeze was going...truthfully....it was just what Don & I both needed...Thanks Deb and Mike...we so love you both!!

Soooooo....tomorrow it is 60 minutes of cardio AT LEAST!!!!!

I am heading to bed, but WILL DO MY SITUPS FIRST.....I AM REALLY DOING THEM CAROL...did you do yours????!!!:):)

More tomorrow!!

Friday, June 24, 2011

Incoming III,5"x7", Club 47 Painting #3, $47.00, Original Contemporary Abstract Seascape Landscape Paintings by Colorado Contemporary Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad


Original painting on 5"x7" heavy watercolor paper.This painting is shipped with a mat which may be used in an 8x10 frame, or the mat may be discarded, and you can frame in a standard 5x7 frame.Mats vary in color, dependent on the painting.This is painting #3 of the Club 47 challenge, and $4.70 will be donated to the Breast Cancer community. Visit my BLOG to learn about the CLUB 47 CHALLENGE...and see who has joined us .See my Art for the Cure blog to learn more. Visit my Website to see Large paintings. www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

$47.00






So..yesterday I added to my post throughout the day and night...you can read through the day in the post below this one. I will do the same today....so check back tonight too see how it all went!!!


11:40 a.m. I have been at my desk reading all of your wonderful emails....and WOW...you all have such great ideas..I will adopt one of Kay's, to drink 5 bottles of water a day....I am HORRIBLE about drinking...but I am having coffee right now...yesterday I didn't even get coffee until the middle of the afternoon.

If you followed my posts throughout the day yesterday ( read the post below) ..I was going to have an early night...(bed at 12:45) and was fighting the urge to eat a little granola cereal....well, as I went to lock the door..I realised Matt was still out..he had a 1:30 curfew,..so I stayed up and YEP...ate a LITTLE granola cereal...then ate a LITTLE more when he came in as I sat and he told me about his evening....I am trying to really watch the bad carbs..my body HATES them...granola is soooo high in sugar....so....that was not so great...and though I did not get 3 sessions of 20 minutes of exercise in yesterday...I did get a session of 35 and a session of 25..and, of course, my situps....so still a total of 60 minutes....teaching a one hour class today here in my studio, and waiting for frames to be delivered...so I will only shoot for 2 sessions of 30 or one of 60 today..stay tuned.....

2:46 p.m.- Had a fiber bar at 2:00.....at least I'm earlier than yesterday...but not by much....( still have had nothing to drink but a cup of coffee....(not good) ...leaving now to hit the grocery store and have a quick coffee with a friend....I try to do that once or twice a week....working from home can be ultra lonely...and Dr's tests show I have NO vitamin D in my system....that's because I am always at my desk or in a dark studio...another reason to try to walk during the day instead of always at night....will eat a cheese stick and drink a bottle of water in my car on the way to the store...will write more later..:)

5:35 p.m.-Dinner is cooking...Salmon....but I am starving...so am eating last nights leftover Tilapia while tonight's dinner is cooking. I have decided to put a bottle of water and a little cup of almonds on my desk at night as I go up to bed...then it will be here when I sit down in the morning....so if I make it to the kitchen for my morning cup of coffee and a bite...great...that will be a huge stride if not... at least there is something on my desk. I have had a hot coffee, and iced coffee (unsweet of course) and one bottle of water today...again...not very good...but yesterday I didn't even have water until 8:30 at night...so ....improvement was made.
More later......

8:51 p.m.
- I have been working on preparations since dinner for this little show I'm in tomorrow in Co Springs....gonna break now for a walk-run session...


9:47 p.m. Did 35 minutes of run-walk---actually only walked for 5 of the 35...a little better than last night.

I have had many emails asking how I plan to lose the weight...some encouraging...others skeptical..and I truly appreciate them all. I do have a plan...I worked in the fitness industry for years and though I would never say I know it all (and isn't IT always changing??).. i do know a lot, and I know what works for my body...well I know what worked for my body pre-hysterectomy...I'm sure it will need some tweeking now!!! Regarding food...the initial plan is to eat 3 to 6 small meals a day. ( That will be a challenge..one of my very bad habits is to get busy and go all day without eating). My body feels and functions best with a diet of primarily lean meats and vegetables with nuts and
very small amounts of whole grains. I used to exercise hours a day..and my goal right now is to limit myself to 30-60 minutes of good hard cardio a day, with strength training 3 times a week.

When you have 47 lbs to lose, there are bound to be plateaus. You have to plan accordingly. I need to have room to add more exercise in as my body adjusts and plateaus...and I cannot ever do 4 hours a day like I did in my twenties...I do not even want to..so....I would like to alternate 30 one day, 60 the next for the first couple of weeks....and see how the weight loss goes, then I will change it up.

I will alternate between jogging, walking, riding the eliptical, and riding the lifecycle (bike). I have to be willing to improvise...I have several injuries I am working around.

In 2000, a tree fell on my head..herniating 2 of my discs in my neck..and tearing my rotator cuff.. for a year I was told it was just inflamed..to limit physical activity...( up until then I was still exercising at least 2 hours a day including weight lifting).
At then end of that year, I had gained 25 lbs...and found out I needed cervical spine surgery...I had 2 level fusion..my neck has cadaver bone, titanium plate and screws...the rotator cuff healed with scar tissue ..had to do steroid injections..it is good now. Neck is great.....but I have to be careful with the amount of weight I lift and the angles at which I lift it. I have bone spurs in both heels from all of the years of running. My Dr. said I will not "make them worse" by running...that when I can stand the pain no more,,we will do surgery..to which I replied..."no more surgeries until I have lost the weight" My second bout of weight gain came after my hysterectomy...which was 7 days before my hubby suffered sudden cardiac death while playing raquetball...HE WAS REVIVED..he is in the 4 percent that survive sudden cardiac death.... and though he lost his job ( he was a UNITED pilot)...he is well and we are blessed...but the moment I got the call I hit the ground running..holding my stitches with my hands...and never went back to "recovery mode" for then it was all about him. (rightfully so) So...I did not heal as well as I could have and now deal with some scar tissue inside which can pull and sting with certain types of exercise.
I gained another 25 lbs during that super stressful year. That was 4 years ago...at which time I began working 40 plus hours a week...which quickly turned to much, much more...and most of it sitting at a desk.

Last year it was plantar fasciitis and steroid injections for that..

My point is...I know I have this body with issues and must be willing to improvise when things flare up. The last thing I want is to be a cripple by the time I reach my goal, and NOT be able to exercise enough to maintain it...

So..now you know where I came from..how I got here...and what I plan to do about it...or at least where I plan to start from:)Hoping I did not completely bore you...but many have asked me the questions I have just answered:)

Someone asked " if you know so much about fitness, how did you gain so much weight, and why haven't you taken it off before now?" to which I can only reply....sometimes LIFE JUST TAKES OVER..AND YOU COME LAST!!!!!

For dinner I had salmon, salad and celery...I need to drink 2 more bottles of water before bed.

I will be gone all day tomorrow for a show..but will post the day's success tomorrow night:)

Thursday, June 23, 2011

SOLD!!!!Thank You Shelly!!!!Field of Color 6-Nature in Motion, Club 47 Painting #2, 5"x7"Original Contemporary Abstract Landscape Sunset Skyscape Paintings, Colorado Contemporary Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad


Original painting on 5x7 heavy watercolor paper.This painting is shipped with a mat(see upper right hand column) which may be used in an 8x10 frame, or the mat may be discarded, and you can frame in a standard 5x7 frame.Mats vary in color, dependent on the painting.This is painting #2 of the Club 47 challenge, and $4.70 will be donated to the Breast Cancer community. See my Art for the Cure blog to learn more. Visit my Website to see Large paintings. www.KimberlyConradFineArt.com

This is soooo cool..I received over 50 emails yesterday and even a few phone calls regarding CLUB 47.
You poured out your hearts, cried, laughed, told me jokes......poked fun at yourselves....I am so very touched...and now have many new people to add to my prayer journal...I will definitely need to extend my payer time!!!! I have posted many of the pledges in the right hand column, and will continue to do so as you give me permission...but know that I have written them all down..so that I may refer to my list daily and check in on you!!!! You were painfully honest in your letters, and I feel I own you nothing less than to be the same,and I will be...every single day!!!!
As posted..the Challenge officially begins today, Thursday, June 23rd,2011.
I love some of the pledges you gave and am going to add a few of them to my pledge list.
One was 47 situps a day...though it will be a bit ,I'm sure before I can do all 47 at once??? We shall see. Today I will try to break my hour of exercise into 3 20 minute sessions. The reason for this, is I tend to go straight to my desk in the morning, and before I know it, it is 2:00 p.m. and I have not gotten up to pee, eat..or even get my first cup of coffee. I have worked on average 12-18 hours a day 6-7 days a week for two straight years....my dear friend Laurie Pace can vouch for me there....as can those of you that I frequently email at 3:00 a.m.
I am NOT bragging.....but am Confessing....my life is completely out of balance and
unhealthy, and a great contributor I know to my weight gain....
Going all day without eating is equally as bad, as the body goes into starvation mode and holds onto your fat. I worked in the fitness industry for years, and used to teach all that stuff...how on earth did I get here???? More on that tomorrow.
Tonight I will log back on and add to this post what I ate and my exercise success!!!!

I am not brave enough to post a "weight", but so we have a public starting point..below is a picture of me Sunday with my 4 wonderful sons..they invited me to golf with them!!Yep...it was pretty hot out there in my black cargo pants, but I have not had shorts on in years!!



4:37 p.m......YIKES...not doing so well on day 1..it is 4:37 p.m. and I have been at my desk all day with the exception of a quick trip to ship paintings and hit Starbucks!!!! oh...and a few minutes trying to figure out my new camera...it does not photograph 5x7's very well..I am doing something wrong.....I grabbed a granola bar while at Starbucks...darn...should have made my egg before hitting the computer this morning....gonna go do my first of 3 20 minute sessions now..then will cook fish for dinner...then more exercise...will post more later!!!:)

8:40 p.m.--oh my..still have not worked out..had to pick up dog doo, clean last night's paint mess off the table, make dinner....and tone 2 canvases for my late night painting session...NOW i am leaving for my power walk.oh..and I ate 1 piece of tilapia, a small salad and celery for dinner..


9:27 p.m. Just did 35 minutes of walk-run-walk-run..what is with that horrible all over body itching as your heart rate climbs..not always,,,but sometimes...???? I have only EVER had that since I have been heavier. I thought I was going to scratch my body bloody for all of the cars passing by to see.....YIKES!!! Heading to my basement now to do 25 min on the Eliptical.....

10:09 p.m. Finished 25 minutes...but had to improvise...could not find any of the remotes in the basement where the Elipitcal is, so instead rode my Lifecycle in my bedroom to Real Housewives of New York..YEP...you heard me right..yep...just a bunch of silly women with NO concept of reality...yep...they are mostly botox and plastic...BUT....I must admit...it is motivating to look at them while working out..it makes me want to be the BEST (real) version of ME....and it will be wonderful to be able to wear really pretty clothes again!!! Leaving now to walk
Miss Bella & Mr Baxter...oh crud...forgot the 47 situps...will run up and do that now.....then walk Miss Bella & Mr. Baxter..


10:27 p.m. Did it....twice....47 situps--30 second isolation hold-47 situps-30 second isolation hold..now will walk dogs..

12:40 a.m....Just finished a sample painting for one of my "kidz" summer clinics....gonna try to go to bed....I have been up until 4:00 a.m. everyday this week this far. Just had celery and a tiny bit of ranch...really wanting some Quaker granola cereal...(craving something sweet)..better head to bed quickly!!

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

SOLD ALREADY...Thank You DREAMA!!!!!! A Colorado Spring III, 5"x7"Original Contemporary Abstract Landscape Sunset Skyscape Paintings, Colorado Contemporary Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad


You have all sooo inspired me...I will begin today... a day early..however...today's painting is not new...but will be $47.00 as well.This little series of pink paintings was a very popular one!!! It is a 5x7 on watercolor paper.
It will fit a standard 5x7 frame, or may be matted and framed to a larger size!!!


Last night I sent out my OPERATION 47 Challenge email. Thank you to ALL of you who responded so quickly and kindly!!!! I must say I was overwhelmed by the amount of emails...and the content of them as well.It seems we all need a little something to light the fire under us once in awhile.One said she would begin walking a minimum of 47 minutes 6 days a week...another will also paint and sell for $47.00, giving $4.70 to Hospice!!! For those who approve...I will add your name to the column on the right
that says "Look who joined CLUB 47!!!!"

I have promised to give an honest account of this journey...and though it doesn't officially begin until tomorrow... I will confess now,,that in preparation for my new program..I ate HORRIBLY last night!!! Mac& Cheese, (and I NEVER eat pasta),2 popsicles, and even a bit of Ben & Jerry's ice cream!!!!! What is it about knowing things will soon be forbidden?????? It was crazy..and I wasn't even hungry...I was reading your emails of encouragement while Ben and Jerry laughed!!!!
The emails continue to pour n as I am sitting here posting...I have been at my desk since this morning without even a cup of coffee...gonna make a Starbucks run...then take a walk..then back to paint..I officially begin tomorrow....you can join in anytime!!!!

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Mini Bouquet 2.5"x3", Tiny Miniature Flower Painting, colorado Artist Kimberly Conrad

I had to paint some "tiny little paintings" for an upcoming "tiny little painting" show..this is a redo of a past ACEO favorite.It will arrive at the show in a "tiny little frame"!!!!:):)

To purchase, contact Kimberly at kkconrad2@aol.com Visit my website:KimberlyConradFineArt.com Visit My Contemporary Landscape Blog Visit My Contemporary Seascape Blog Visit My Aspen Tree Blog

Monday, June 20, 2011

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Moving Metals-Coral,Original Contemporary Abstract Expressionism Paintings, 20"x24" Canvas,Colorado Contemporary Abstract Artist Kimberly Conrad

Abstract expressionism painting on gallery wrapped canvas, wired and ready to hang.

To purchase, contact Kimberly at kkconrad2@aol.com Visit my website:KimberlyConradFineArt.com Visit My Contemporary Landscape Blog Visit My Contemporary Seascape Blog Visit My Aspen Tree Blog

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Late Afternoon Reflections II, 20"x20" Contemporary Abstract Landscape, Sunset Paintings, Colorado Abstract Landscape Artist Kinbery Conrad

Contemporary abstract landscape paintings. This painting is sold, however, prints are available at Fineart America in several sizes.

Visit my website:KimberlyConradFineArt.com Visit My Contemporary Landscape Blog Visit My Contemporary Seascape Blog Visit My Aspen Tree Blog

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Tuesday, June 7, 2011

Uninvited, Original Contemporary Abstract Seascape Paintings, Colorado Abstract Landscape Artist Kimberly Conrad

Original 5"x7" abstract seascape painting on watercolor paper.

To purchase, contact Kimberly at kkconrad2@aol.com Visit my website:KimberlyConradFineArt.com Visit My Contemporary Landscape Blog Visit My Contemporary Seascape Blog Visit My Aspen Tree Blog

Sunday, June 5, 2011

Moonlit Aspens, Original Contemporary Abstract Landscape, Aspen Tree Paintings,Colorado Abstract Landscape Artist Kimberly conrad

Original 8"x10" aspen tree painting on watercolor paper. This painting will fit a standard 8x10 frame, or may be matted and framed to a larger size.
To purchase, contact Kimberly at kkconrad2@aol.com Visit my website:KimberlyConradFineArt.com Visit My Contemporary Landscape Blog Visit My Contemporary Seascape Blog Visit My Aspen Tree Blog

Thursday, June 2, 2011