The Comox Valley Makeover 2006
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Makeover 2005

 

~ Diary ~

Latest entries are listed first. 
If you're new to this page, you may wish to start at the beginning of Tracey's journey and read up.   Make sure to visit each sponsor's page for more photos of Tracey.

Questions for any of our sponsors?  Please Email Us

Friday, June 9, 2006:


(click to enlarge)

On Friday evening, June 9 at the Best Western, Westerly Hotel, Tracey made her Reveal of 3 months hard work to a room packed full of well wishers.  Friends, family and staff from the many offices that participated in her transformation cheered Tracey on as she made her way to the stage.

Tracey thanked all the sponsors and spoke about her journey over the last 3 months as well as her family and the support of her husband.  Tracey's experience included many state of the art services, including dental procedures, skin care, eye testing, nutrient consulting, fitness, shoes for the gym and counselling during the jam-packed 3 months.

In her final few days leading up to the Reveal, Tracey received a new outfit, new shoes, learned the benefits of good fitting undergarments, a new hairstyle and was photographed.

Thank you to 5th Street Florist who donated the beautiful bouquet for Tracey's Reveal. (Click here to visit their website).

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Friday, June 9, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

The Reveal

5pm  I arrive at the Coast Westerly to get settled into the forbidden Suite.  I decided to go early to take advantage of some quiet time to rest and relax.  Shawn stays for a while then leaves me to get ready.  It's nice to have some time just to myself.

7pm  Ida and Vicki from Roots join me to do my hair and makeup.  I still find it bizarre to have so much attention focused on me... But fun.

7:20pm  Shawn arrives again to keep me company until things get rolling.  It's good to see his smile.

7:30pm  Sharon (from Derm Essentials) popped in to say hi, as did Manny Keramanis and Lyle Merfield.  All had big smiles and encouraging words.

8pm  Time to get dressed and for last minute "primping" Ida and Vicki join me again for touch ups and then all are off to start the evening and leave me to await my cue.

8:15  Andrea (from the Westerly) comes to tell me it's time to head "backstage".  She takes me through the kitchen to the back door to the room.  Manny introduces all the sponsors and then the slide show of all that I have done over the past 3 months ensues.  This is a truly strange moment in my life.  In the next room a hundred or so people gather to watch my life unfold as I listen from the hallway.  I wasn't really nervous before but now it hits me - any moment I will have to walk up on stage and speak to those gathered there.  And then before the nervousness has a chance to build my name is called and I am standing on the stage.  The next few moments are a blur.  I remember looking out to the room but not really focusing on any one face - save for Shawn's.  My thanks were heartfelt through I can't remember exactly what I said.  And then the moment is past, my body relaxes and the rest of the night flies by in a whirlwind of door prizes, visiting, dancing and chocolate.

It has been a terrific experience but now it is time to settle back into regular life once again.  Thanks to all for such a great experience!

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Thursday, June 8, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

One day to go and it's looking to be a busy one.

It starts with a visit to Roots Salon.  Ida is styling my hair and doing my makeup for my after picture.  I'm not used to wearing makeup so it feels somewhat foreign on my face.  The hair is fun and quite different from my usual style.

At 4pm I meet Gerry Van for my photo shoot.  We head down to Puntledge river and took some shots on the swing and in the river.  Hopefully they will turn out OK.  It was definitely a pretty spot.

Next it was on to Derm Essentials for all the finishing touches - manicure, pedicure, collagen face mask and a bioultimate Gold treatment.  I trundle home at 10pm completely primped and ready for tomorrow.

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Wednesday, June 7, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today I think my hair colour is great.  Vicki did a beautiful job, it's just taken living with such a change for a little while to appreciate the change.  Everyone I bump into goes on about how great they think it looks which is certainly positive.

I also went in for a fitting at Secret Drawers this afternoon.  There were so many lovely things to choose from and in the end found just what I needed for under my outfit!  It's always a treat to have beautiful feminine things.

Next I zipped off to Derm Essentials for some quick photos and a brow and lash tint.  There have certainly been an array of new experiences over the last 3 months and this was another one.

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Tuesday, June 6, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I met Vicki at Roots this evening for my hair colour.  I wasn't sure what she had in mind and was a little nervous about it.  She chose to add a couple of different highlights (I won't say what 'til after the reveal) and a semi-permanent wash through the rest.  She did a lovely job but I am still getting used to a new colour on me.  It feels quite different to look in the mirror these days - I'm not sure how I feel about it.

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Monday, June 5, 2006:

Check out the newly posted Derm Essentials photos of Tracey's skin makeover

Plus the latest posts on her Fitness Excellence Makeover written by her personal trainers.

 

Monday, June 5, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

This evening was my final dental visit with the Acreview Team.  Dr. Burry was placing my permanent bridge which is the last major work to be done.  I am so happy with my teeth, I can't even express how great it is to be pain free when it comes to my teeth.  Thanks to every single member of the crew who shared so much positive energy with me!

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Friday, June 2, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today was a lot of fun.  I met Shelley at Fairhearts to choose my outfit for the reveal.  I can't remember the last time I bought clothes for myself from anywhere other than a thrift store, so this was a real treat.  Shelley was really lovely and I really appreciate her good energy and all her help.  I tried on dozens of items with Shelley helping to mix and match and coordinate outfits.  She helped put together things I never would have thought of on my own.  I usually wander around finding separates with no idea how to fit things together.  "The benefits of having a professionals' help"  There were so many lovely things it was so hard to choose.  I narrowed it down to 3 and then ended up choosing the one that was most "me".  The one I would wear most often and felt the most comfortable in.

As an added bonus because there was not a sponsor for the dress shoes, Shelley took it upon herself to buy me shoes to match my outfit.  She sent me to a local shoe store with the help of another of the Fairheart gals to choose some shoes.  We very quickly found some that matched perfectly. Shelley joined us, purchased the shoes and I was sent home with an added gift.  Thanks to Shelley for her generosity!  The only downfall of the day - now there are numerous items for my birthday wish list waiting at Fairhearts.

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Monday, May 29, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

My hair appointment is scheduled for this Friday and I can't wait.  My last cut was not a good one so it's grown out into somewhat of a scraggly mop which is constantly in my face.  When they said I couldn't cut my hair for 3 months I thought - no problem - but now I'm counting the days.

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Sunday, May 28, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

As I expected, the redness is rapidly fading from my cheeks and all the brown pigment is sloughing off leaving clearer skin behind.

These are some of the skin products I was given as part of my regimen:

The sunscreen is one of my favourites.  Celex-C has been great.  It is aroma free spf30 and not greasy in the slightest.  I thought it might be too heavy on my skin - applying it over my moisturizer but I don't find that at all.  I would definitely recommend this sunscreen.

Another of my favourites is the Allpresan foam cream for very dry skin.  I use it mostly on my hands and feet but it works great on legs, knees, elbows, wherever really.  It is not an oil based cream so it absorbs well with no greasy feel and it does work very well.

The skin care products I was initially given have also contributed to healthier skin.  (healthier eating has also been a factor!)

I am using:

  • Nelly de Vuyst hydrocell cleansing lotion

  • Physiodermie stabilizing lotion

  • Physiodermie sensitive skin moisturing cream to which I add 2 drops each physiodermie soothing Bioarome and physiodermie anti-redness Bioarome

I am noticing an overall improvement in my skin, clearer, brighter and certainly more hydrated.

Sharon also gave me a bottle of Glytone Exfoliating Body Wash and Glytone Body Lotion.  I have some rough skin on my arms and it was explained that it is a condition called Kiratosis Polaris.  It is very common and develops because the skin around the pores does not slough off easily, builds up a bit and makes the skin rough.  The body wash and lotion contain glycolic acid to help treat this condition.  I have used it a few times and it seems to be working.

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Friday, May 26, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

This was my last skin rejuvenation laser treatment today.  Following the laser Sharon applied a collagen mask which helped heal, nourish and tone my skin.  The mask is applied with a heat mask on top which stays for 20 minutes.  The collagen mask is an a la carte treatment that can be enjoyed on it's own or added on to another treatment such as the one I had.  I don't know if it was because it was my 5th laser session or because the mask enhanced the treatment but a huge amount of pigment was pulled out of my skin.  Tonight it looks very red and is tender but as with each other treatment that will fade in a couple of days and the "pulled out" pigment should disappear.

My new glasses arrived today - which was fun.  They are very much more bold than any others I've had but I'm enjoying being adventurous.

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Thursday, May 25, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I picked up my Oasis contacts today.  A 1 year supply, so very generous!!!  Life is very surreal sometimes.  It's amazing to walk into an office, he handed hundreds of dollars in products and leave with nothing more than smiles and thank you's.

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Wednesday, May 24, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

My appointment today with fitness trainer Sue Muldoon was great.  We went over everything  I have been doing so far and then she set up a new program for me.  It's quite challenging as she gave me exercises that in addition to working a particular muscle group also use core stabilizing muscles.  This was good timing as I was ready for a new challenge.

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Friday, May 12, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today was another one of those crazy days.  2.5 hours at the dentist working on my front teeth this time.  I'm very pleased with the work Drs Karamanis and Burry have done.

I visited Roots for a deep conditioning treatment today which was relaxing and fun.  James applied a deep conditioner and then I sat under the Climazon machine to help it penetrate.  It is much like a heat lamp and its main purpose is to process hair colour in half the time it would typically take.  A rinse and then a blow dry and straight iron to my hair finished things off.

Next I was off to Derm Essentials for another laser treatment.  Sharon had new stick on patches for over the eyes (to protect from the laser) which were much more comfortable than the goggles.  Every little bit to increase comfort helps.  Only one more laser treatment to go.  I am pleased with how much redness has gone from my cheeks.

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Wednesday, May 10, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I popped in to meet the gang at roots today.  They seem like a high energy, fun bunch.  Basically, we just talked about different options for cut and colour so we'll see what we all decide on when all is said and done.

Off to the dentist for some work on my bridge and today the last amalgam filling goes!  I had a curious revelation today.  For those of you who had childhood dental trauma as I did, where to this day the smell of a dental office sets your stomach in knots, you may be interested in this.  Acreview Dental Clinic does not smell like a dental office.  I was aware of it right away but my conscious mind didn't really register it as a main reason for my lack of stress entering the office, but it is a huge factor for me.  I would even dislike visiting other businesses, if they were in 'smelling' distance of a dental office.  I asked Dr. Burry about it and he said the main reason for the lack of smell is from the use of Digital Radiography X-rays.  Not only do they reduce the radiation exposure by 90% but they do not need all the "smelly" chemicals used in typical dental x-rays machines.  So for that reason as well as their use of environmentally friendly, low odour cleaners, you would never know you were walking into a dental office by the smell.  I am amazed at how much this reduces my stress level attending my appointments.

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Friday, May 5, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Zoom whitening is the agenda of the day.  What a wild process that is.  Bleach is applied to the teeth and a special light (similar to a tanning bed light) is shone on the teeth for 15 minute intervals.  New bleach is applied every 15 minutes until the desired whiteness is obtained.  Most people need only 3 cycles but of course my teeth were stubborn and needed a 4th.  It is somewhat uncomfortable as the teeth become sensitive - temporarily - but my teeth sure are white.

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Thursday, May 4, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I chose my new glasses today.  They are completely different from any frames I've ever had but I really like them.  It was hard to choose but I think these will be a fun change.  I also took home my new Nike contact lenses to try.  It's great to have some options again - with new glasses, Nike contacts and also the oasis contacts, I'll have something for every occasion possible.

As for the Nike contacts, they are crazy to look at but are great for outdoor activities.  They come in 2 shades - brown and orange and, unlike regular coloured contacts, they entire lens is coloured so you see a ring of colour around your iris.  Not exactly what you'd wear out to dinner but for sports they're great!  They are in fact "sunglass" contact lenses so they are like looking through a prescription sunglass without the inconvenience of glasses that can be knocked around while being more active.  I prefer the look of the brown lenses on the eye.  However I chose the orange ones because I prefer how the world appears with them in.  Shawn and I had a laugh as the first time I tried them on the neighbour happened to be visiting (whom I've only met once and knows nothing of the makeover).  He thought perhaps the aliens had descended until we explained.  Perhaps I should wear them for my after photo and see if anyone notices.

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Wednesday, May 3, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

My silver amalgam fillings are almost all gone.  What a difference to look in my mouth and see every tooth 'white'.  I know this will have a profound impact on my health as well.  To no longer have mercury seeping into my body is huge!

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Monday, May 1, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I have now completely lost my voice and all I seem to want to do is sleep.  I guess it will be a while before I get back to the gym - so very frustrating.  I haven't been sick in so long I forgot how much it can take out of you

I met with Michelina the Dietician this morning.  I'm trying to cut down on the wheat in my diet so she has been helping me research some other grains.

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Friday, April 28, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I wasn't' really ready for the laser today but I thought perhaps the facial following would lift my spirits and help my body heal.  The laser is really helping my skin - people are remarking on it - though I still struggle with the process.
The Facial was, as it was the last time, heavenly.  Sandy does a very lovely lymphatic drainage head and face massage which did indeed help me feel better.  Now it's home to rest and hope that my energy returns soon.

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Tuesday, April 25, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today I feel very frustrated.  I seem to have caught some bug which hit out of the blue like a bus last night and today I feel totally wiped out.  I had such great energy at the gym yesterday and have finally felt like I'm in a great groove, but now another break in fitness is very frustrating.  However most importantly is taking care of my health so I will sleep and rest and hopefully rejuvenate quickly.

 

Saturday, April 22, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Shawn told me today he is noticing quite a difference to the redness on my cheeks.  Seems like the lasers are doing their thing.

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Thursday, April 20, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I went back to Coastal today to get my contacts checked.  The prescription didn't seem quite right so we fine tuned that and now the contacts feel good.  I tried on the Nike contacts and they are crazy!  It's like wearing sunglasses on your eyes, both in appearance and in vision.  The vision is like looking through a yellow/orange sunglass lens - it brightens and defines the outside world.  As for the look of them, as I said, crazy!  The ones I liked vision wise are orange so they look pretty strange on.  The pigment covers the whole contact (not like a colored contact where only the iris is colored) so when they are in your eye you see an orange ring around your eye.  They are very strange to look at but would be great for outdoor activities and sports.

I kept the "men's choice" for a frame option and looked at a bunch more.  We added 2 new options and returned 3 of the last bunch.  Now I have to make my final choice.  Very difficult as I like them all a lot and as my husband will tell you - I'm terrible at making decisions.

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Sunday, April 16, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I showed the frame choices to family and got polar opposite opinions.  The women liked one frame and the men another.  I'm leaning towards the men's' choice but I'd like to look at other possibilities before I make my final decision.  There are just too many choices.

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Thursday, April 13, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

This was a crazy day!  It started with a 9AM appointment with registered dietician Michelina Karamanis.  We had increased my dairy consumption to address my low calcium intake but it has not been working for me.  For some strange reason whenever I eat milk and cheese, even low fat, it makes me gain weight so now I'm looking at other ways to get my RDA of Calcium. I feel pretty good about my eating habits in general, but there's always room for improvement and I appreciate Michelina's support.

I was then off to Coastal Eyecare to meet with Dr. Lyle Myrfield and the team there.  I wasn't expecting to have my photos taken, but there they were.  I can honestly say I would never pursue the famous portion of "rich & famous" - the attention would drive me crazy.  However the gang at Coastal were a lot of fun and were very welcoming and positive.  They fit me with new contact lenses and I will return in a week to have them checked.  Aimee and I worked our way through dozens of frames and narrowed it down to 4 so far.  I'll take them home to get opinions from family.

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Wednesday, April 12, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I had a second personal fitness training session today.  This time it was with Helen and she was fantastic.  Her energy was really positive and encouraging and she gave me all sorts of helpful feedback.  She changed both my weights (increasing them) and the way in which I lift them.  As well she added some new exercises to the routine.  She had me working really hard but it felt great.  I could sense the strength lurking in my muscles and I felt really encouraged.

From the gym it was off to Derm Essentials for my second laser treatment.  I can't say I was actually looking forward to the treatment itself (I find it somewhat painful though, I have very sensitive skin) but I am looking forward to what it's doing for my skin.  I can already see a difference in the redness of my face and the little red capillaries on my cheeks are disappearing.  Sharon recommended another facial soon to reassess my skin, so we have booked one following my next laser treatment.  Perhaps she was being sensitive to my discomfort during the laser treatments and wanted to balance it with something more soothing.  It was a very thoughtful offer and I'm very much looking forward to it.

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Friday, April 7, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I am getting very spoiled at Derm Essentials.  Sandy treated me to a manicure with a paraffin dip to help with the dry skin on my hands.  It certainly did the trick.  I have never seen my hands so soft and smooth.  I would highly recommend a paraffin treatment.  She gave me a bottle of Allpresan cream foam for very dry skin.  This is to use on my hands and feet.  She also gave me a bottle of Poshe treatment basecoat to help strengthen my nails.  Thanks Sandy.

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Saturday, April 1, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Just as Sharon explained, my skin is flaking off old pigmented skin.  It is a very bizarre process.  I'm curious to see the end result.

When I was at Derm Essentials they gifted me with a tube of "Kiss Me Mascara".  I don't usually wear mascara as it tends to bother my eyes, but I gave it a try today.  Apparently it forms tubes around the eyelash that don't rub or smear off, until you apply warm water, then the tubes slide off your lashes.  I've had it on all day and my eyes don't feel irritated at all.  Wash off was easy and my eyes still feel ok.  If anyone is interested in any of their treatments of products they are very friendly and approachable and would love a chance to explain what they do at Derm Essentials.

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Thursday, March 30, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I must take a break from my fitness for a couple of days.  If I exercise to the point of flushing my face I will negate the laser treatment, so just dog walks for 2 or 3 days.  I'll be happy if the redness fades but I feel a bit frustrated to stop the exercise just as I was getting some momentum.  I can't let this dampen my enthusiasm or get in the way of the results I want to achieve.  However, life is about balance, so I will take each day with it's gifts and challenges and make the most of it for myself and my family.

 

Wednesday, March 29, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Back to the gym  I'm starting to get in the groove, and things flowed a little easier today.  I increased the weight on a couple of my exercises which was encouraging.

I met with Sharon at Derm Essentials for a full face Laser Skin Rejuvenation treatment.  The purpose of the treatment is to reduce redness, pigment and fine lines and capillaries on the skin.  The treatment was explained in detail and Sharon made sure all my questions were answered before we began.  Again the team at Derm Essentials are very friendly and very professional.  This is the first in a series of treatments typically 3-5x approximately 3 weeks apart.  Now Sharon warned me that many of the treatments would be soothing and pleasant but that some would not be free of discomfort.  This was one of the latter.  I was snuggled into a heated chair and my eyes were very carefully covered with goggles for protection.  Gel was applied to my face and then a cooling tip is held to the skin for a few seconds.  Then the laser pulses briefly.  Each time this happens there is a flash of light and a feeling akin to a cross between a snap of a rubber band and a sting from plucking a hair.  Some areas of my face were felt more than others.  Once my whole face had been treated, cream was applied to cool and soothe the skin.  I was surprised at how quickly the discomfort disappeared - within minutes - with only very mild tenderness to the touch that evening.  Signs to watch - that the treatment is doing its job - skin peeling or sloughing off, tiny scabs forming that just rub off and take unwanted pigment with them.

In conjunction with these treatments I was given a goodie bag full of skin care products to help hydrate, protect and reduce redness and sensitivity of my skin.  I am using:

  • hydrocell cleansing lotion from the Nelly de Vuyst line;

  • stabilizing lotion,

  • sensitive skin cream,

  • soothing and anti-redness biorome's from the Physiodermie line; and

  • Cellex-C spf30+ sunscreen and moisturizer.

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Monday, March 27, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today I have 3 less amalgam fillings in my mouth and one additional crown.  I'm very excited.  My whole dentist experience has been transformed.  I find myself looking forward to my appointments, not something I could ever say in the past.  Everyone at the Acreview Clinic has such positive energy.  I'm greeted with such big smiles and their level of professionalism is impressive.  I can't say enough about how much I appreciate what they've done for me.

It was really interesting to see all the technology that went into making my new crown.  the machine is called Cerec and for all those techno minded people, uses Cad Cam technology.  A picture is taken of the prepared tooth and then through digital computer imaging a tooth is designed.  The image is sent to the milling station and is milled on site from solid porcelain, then place on my tooth the same day.

It is apparent to me that Dr.'s Karamanis and Burry have a high level of commitment to bringing in the most updated technology.  This offers each and every patient the best care possible.  Every time I enter their office I feel my health is important to them and I trust that decisions are being made with my best interests in mind.

The gym was good today.  It really helps to have someone - namely a personal trainer - to be accountable to.  No slacking off.

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Sunday, March 26, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today I believe In myself - in my ability to be strong, healthy and fit.  I've never been one to challenge myself physically so this is a new chapter in my life.  Shawn is right there encouraging, smiling and challenging me when he sees I could use a nudge.  I am very blessed to have a partner who is there for me with such positive and grounding energy.  The exercise is feeling wonderful.  I have such a good tired (yet energized) feeling afterwards and know I am doing something terrific for my body.

 

March 25, 2006:

Tracey has now been set up on her 12 week personal training program at Fitness Excellence.  Personal trainers involved are:

  • Barb Houle

  • Helen Carter and

  • Susan Muldoon

Keith Wakelin has also met with Tracey and has started her on a 'Learn to Run' program.  Check out our fitness page for more details.

 

Friday, March 24, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I had the biggest smile on my face as I "x-trained" along to AC/DC at the gym today.  The level was easy - a "break you in gently" workout really, but I felt good to be moving my body again.  The weights were a different story.  I hate lifting heavy things!  But I can do it, I want to do it so I will transform my attitude to one of total positiveness.  The outcome will  be fantastic (better health) - so I need to make the process positive too.  After all - it's all just my life, so why not do everything I do with joy and happiness.  now I need to keep replaying that message while I squat and lunge and heave on the dumbbells.  I wonder why they're called dumbbells?  Nothing to do with the people heaving them I'm sure!

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Thursday, March 23, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today I met with Dietician Michelina Karamanis of Healthy Lifestyles.  I feel that I eat quite healthfully, but there is so much to learn about nutrition and it's great to have her as a resource.

We looked at my current diet, pinpointed some areas for change and improvement and developed some goals.  Now it's up to me to make them happen.  I'm not interested in "dieting" but in making healthy choices, to give my body the best fuel possible.  I want to be healthy and active well into my 70's, 80's and even 90's and beyond but that's only possible if I take responsibility for my health now.  This makeover is giving me the opportunity to access the knowledge and energy of people like Michelina, who can help me with my goals.

The biggest treat of the day was a 2 hr facial and skin assessment at Derm Essentials with Sandi.  I can't remember the last time I felt so relaxed.  What a difference to my skin afterwards.  usually quite dry, it was so moist and healthy looking.  Shawn noticed the difference right away.  They sent me home with a big bag of skin care products so it will be fun to give them a try.

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March 23, 2006:

The Comox Valley Makeover Team wishes to introduce the winner of this year's Comox Valley Makeover:

TRACEY

She is born and raised in the Comox Valley and is very excited to begin her journey.

 

Photography by:
Van's Portraits

Click here to visit the photography page and view a more detailed photo of Tracey

 

Wednesday, March 22, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

2 hours and 40 minutes in the dentist chair.  I feel wrung out!  I need to keep focused on the 'outcome' of the next 12 weeks - especially with the dentist.  The people are fabulous, the work done is a blessing, but the process is a challenge.  It does not have to be a negative though.  I can turn that thinking around.  Tonight I am one visit closer to pain free teeth!

As far as fitness goes, I am only going to look at each day individually. One day at a time I will get in shape.  One day at a time I will increase my energy. One day at a time I will be motivated.

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March 21, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Today my teeth will be (are) shiny and clean thanks to Abbi at Acreview Dental.  Afterward... my consultation with Dr. K was very emotional.  It astounds me at this gift I am receiving - thousands of dollars of dental work, all given with enthusiasm and happiness.  And for me - me.

I have to laugh at myself and how attached I am to my imperfections.  When Manny started talking about changing the look of my front teeth - even if only slightly, I could feel a slight lump of nervousness form in my throat.  All those little quirks that make me unique... but when I sit and ponder later I realize that what makes me unique is what comes from inside, and improving the "look" of my teeth doesn't change that person but perhaps gives a bit more ease and confidence in presenting the "package" I come in.  It is very interesting what happens when you turn the lens back on yourself, what emotions surface.  I believe this will be a journey in getting to know myself better.

For me I know this will ultimately have little to do with the way I look and everything to do with how I feel.

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Monday, March 20, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

I touched base with Keith today and we met at Extreme Runners at 2 pm.  Lannae has come on board as one of the sponsors and is donating a pair of runners for my fitness program.  I tried on 8 or 10 different shoes and decided on a pair of new Balance running shoes.  My old runners are about 3 1/2 years old so I am very thankful for this unexpected gift.  Now I am getting antsy to actually start the fitness end of things, but I've yet to hear from the trainer.  Keith thinks Wednesday.  I hope so 'cause the days are ticking down and I have to show up at the big reveal - fit and toned.  I'd better get out there on my own tomorrow.  Keith will go over the running program after I meet with Barb.  I think this will all sink in when the fitness starts.

I'm looking forward to my dentist appointment tomorrow - I'll find out what will happen with my teeth.

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March 17, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

Happy St. Pat's to all.

Brace your ego Tracey, today is the "before" picture.  Wear as tight of clothes as possible, not black - too flattering, and stand square to the camera - no flattering angles either.  But Jerry had a good sense of humour and I enjoyed meeting him.  He'll just owe me one hell of a great picture at the end of this.

I talked to Deb and Keith today.  Looks like the runners are a go - I'm very thankful for that bonus!  Fitness officially start Monday so I'd better start on my own this weekend.

Appointments are booking up.  Life will be busy!

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March 16, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

My first appointment today was with Manny Keramanis and the Acreview "family" who were really fabulous!!  My teeth are the #1 reason for entering this contest and to think that I will be pain free, amalgam free and worry free around something that has absorbed so much of my thoughts and energy for so long is a gift I cannot describe.  It is an emotional process - I was moved to tears today when Manny told me that he will be removing all the silver in my mouth.  no more mercury polluting my body!

Today Crystal took pictures of all my teeth, as well as impressions.  Dr. Keramanis did an exam of my teeth and we discussed some options.  We meet again on Tuesday.

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March 15, 2006 (submitted by Tracey):

and so it begins...

Tonight Shawn and I met with the "makeover team".  All with big smiles and enthusiasm.  It was a bit overwhelming - kind of like the first day at school when you get all your assignments for the term and it's a bit much to take in.  I will need to get used to being the focus of attention - something that feels foreign to me.  I know that the scope of this has not sunk in yet - it all feels surreal and not yet tangible.  But somewhere inside me there is a place of gratitude and excitement for the gift I have been given.

*A very important reminder to myself: "Stay true to my heart"
This will be a whirlwind of activity and energies and so I must be grounded and clear with myself and with everyone else about everything that concerns me.  Also to give wonderfully positive energy to all I interact with.

 

March 7, 2006:

Thank you to everyone who applied for the Makeover.  We're currently going over each application and interviewing potential candidates.  Stay tuned for the announcement of this year's winner!

 

January 31, 2006:

Today we start our makeover 2006 journey.  Applications are available at any of our sponsors.

This page will be used for regular updates on our 2006 Comox Valley Makeover candidate.  Visit regularly to see what's new!

 

Come join us for the
Final Reveal: June 9, 2006!
at the Westerly Hotel
Click here for more details

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