Robin Boland, The Laughing Cow’s winner of the ReShape Your Health Facebook contest back in March, took a few minutes to sit down with us and answer some final questions about how her “ReShape” has impacted her active lifestyle, daily habits and workout routines. Read on to find out more … And, to check out her first progress report Q&A after 2 months into the program, click here.

Q: Where do you stand with your ReShape goals thus far?

A: My goal was a weight loss of 15 pounds. I have lost 12 pounds. I feel REALLY good about that.  Because my life ain’t over yet!

Q: Can you share a few lessons/tips you learned from your recent 1-on-1’s with our Food Community Leader, Roni Noone, and/or our Nutrition Community Leader, Patricia Bannan?

A: Patricia was so focused on the commitments needed to meet the goal. She had me commit to a few things. The number one thing that I committed to her and is really working for me and my family is the “Filling half of my plate with vegetables.” I have found a great selection of “California blend’ veggies and steam them with EVERY meal – and it’s great!!  My husband just said to me last night, “I am so glad you are on this vegetable kick, because I love these” (he said while holding up his fork).

We also discussed my need to plan when I know I am going to be out and about all day. When I spoke to her I had just come off a busy week where I did not plan well and fast food played a big role in my week and I was feeling bad about it. So, she helped me recommit to be sure to plan for my day when I am going to be on the road.

Roni was just such an inspiration. She helped me to be thoughtful about myself and my daughter and how we might be emotionally holding ourselves back. She sent me some good information via email, too!  She’s a gem!

Q: What are some of the things you’ve learned through your ReShape Your Health experience that you hope to implement into your daily routine moving forward?

A: For me it’s been about realizing that small changes can yield great results. I don’t have to radically change my entire existence to make progress!! I have also learned that I work out much better with a partner.  I have learned that the only person who is going to motivate me is ME!  I have learned I can be an example but I can’t be an enforcer.

Q: Any important tips/tricks to share with fellow members of The Laughing Cow community struggling to meet their ReShape goals?

A: The best advice I can give is learn to compromise a bit. Figure out what you can do without and then do without it. Perhaps a particular “low fat” version of something isn’t the best tasting thing on the planet, but “is it okay enough to continue with it?”  Can you learn to like it because it serves your body?  It doesn’t have to all be fabulous in order for you to get passed the “I won’t deny myself” banter that we feed ourselves when considering change.   Be willing to give something a fair chance. Don’t shove it aside immediately if it isn’t perfect. Work on it, work with it.

Q: How has your experience been working with a personal trainer?  Has it improved your lifestyle and/or fitness routine?

A: She helped me learn a great exercise with the kettle bells I received. I have learned new and fun things I can do to “add variety” to my workouts. She has been a great source of information and support as well.

This will be the BIGGEST news yet.  Two separate times working with my personal trainer I found myself wheezing and unable to breathe properly. I was scared to death. I let it go the first time - I just ignored it. But, the second time my daughter was working out with me and I had someone else to answer to.  This happened on a Saturday. On Monday, July 11, 2011 – I QUIT SMOKING!!!  Yes, as of right now it has been 29 days since I have had a cigarette!!   I am so proud of myself and I so want this to be the new reality for me.  No one is allowed to smoke in my house now.  I am using the lozenges and even an electronic cigarette to get me through the transition. Quitting is so hard. But, I want to live a long, healthy life. It is a MUST!  Oh I really, really hope I can see this through!

Though I have gained so much more – my personal trainer pointed out – if quitting smoking was the only thing I gained from this whole experience – that would be AMAZING enough to yell from the top of a mountain.

Q: What are you most excited about with your upcoming spa day prize package?

A: M A S S A G E!!  Our lives are in such transition right now (We are adopting a daughter of 12 years old). The process has taken a lot out of me and I can’t wait to be able to get relaxed, relaxed, relaxed!  Also, I have to admit – I am a pedicure junkie – so this will be so fun!

Q: What is your favorite pairing with either of the two new Mini Babybel flavors?

A: Sharp Cheddar is my favorite kind of cheese (well besides, Blue Cheese). So, I love the idea of being able to make a salad richer with the inclusion of the new Mini Babybel Sharp Original.

Q: How have The Laughing Cow’s products helped you achieve more balance/portion control in your meals and snacking?

A: One of the benefits of the wedges is – If I want two – I can have two and I can feel really good about it!

I love The Laughing Cow wedges so much that I will try them on anything:

• English Muffins
• Waffles
• Apple Slices
• PRETZELS (LOVE THIS)
• Inside a burrito (turkey, of course)

I really enjoy The Laughing Cow Products and that is such a nice part of my journey – To be able to do well and eat well and enjoy the process. Thank you very much for this opportunity and the support of all the community leaders. I have gained great tools for my future.

**Congratulations Robin! You are an inspiration to all of us!

ShareThis