Lulu201's Healthy Living Log (comments welcome!)

[DoeWDW]

Erin, check out my new tags from the Tag Fairy!! He/She must read your journal cuz one of them came straight out of one of my earlier posts here!!!! :teeth:

WOW - I'm feeling much better now. It's so exciting to be tagged by the Tag Fairy!! We gotta get YOU a tag!!

princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

THAT IS TOO COOL!!!!:Pinkbounc :bounce: :Pinkbounc

Oh, if I only I could be so fortunate as to have a tag. . .

princess: Lulu

[Castillo Mom]

Good to see you made some new goals for yourself Erin! Stay focused and I'm sure you'll achieve them!:D

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :sunny:

I hope your day went well yesterday. I WANTED to do well, but you know about good intentions..... :(

Today is a new day and I'm feeling great! :D I hope you're feeling great too! Here we go, onward and downward!

Here's some extra sunshine and smiles, just in case you need them! :sunny: :sunny:

princess: Doe-Doe

[DoeWDW]

Dear princess: Lulu,

I missed you yesterday. I hope all is well there. I'm thinking of you and sending good thoughts and pixie dust your way.

princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Ugh. Remember that happy, healthy, on-top-of-things feeling that I had a few days ago? It's gone. I'm stressed. At least I'm able to post again, though. I missed Doreen and my WISH friends and the structure and accountability of my journal.

Here's the story: Mon. 180, 45 points!!!, 14 left in bank.
Tues. 179, 27 points, 11 left in bank.
Wed. 177, 27.5 points, 8.5 left in bank.

I'm off to bed. Tomorrow will be a new day and will bring some
:sunny:, I'm sure.

princess: Lulu

[lulu201]

Good morning, it's 12/4. Today is a brand new day, and I'm determined to make it a :sunny: one!

Goals: 1. Vitamins
2. Water
3. Coffee--1 cup; take lemon green tea to work for
afternoon.
4. Stay low in the point zone; I'm planning on 24-26. I
don't have much in the bank anyway!

I'm more rested today, but by tonight I'll be zonked. . .it's going to be a long one. Still, I imagine it'll be a day full of smiles and snow excitement as everyone wonders what tonight and tomorrow will bring weather-wise.

I'm going to pack my lunch and I think I'll add a cookie!:p At two points, it's worth it!

Down another turkey pound this a.m., back to 176. I'm lovin' that Whoosh Fairy today!

Here I go--
princess: L.

Edit:

Ugh, I'm just beat!! I don't think I took my vitamins, but I drank as much water as I could and finished today with 27.5 points. It wasn't as low as I wanted, but I was hungry--my stomach was growling and everything, so I had a 3 point snack. I could definitely eat more, but instead I think I'll call it a day.

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, princess: Lulu!!

176 - YAY!!!!!

Here's a :hug: for the past few difficult days and :sunny: and :wizard: for today. We're going to be back on track!

I bet the smiles and excitement of your students is priceless on a day when we're expecting the first real snow of the year! I wish I could see the wonder and joy on their faces! I think that will be my inspirational mental picture for today - sweet little faces full of joy and wonder!

I hope you have a wonderful day today. I'll be sending extra energy and good thoughts your way!

princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Yay, it's a new day and the turkey pounds (oh, OK, I'll say it: and the PRE-turkey pounds) are just about gone. It's amazing how much water/salt weight my body can pick up and throw off in relatively short amounts of time. I remember years ago at WW, after a particularly bad week, I gained 8 lbs. and the lady weighing me in couldn't believe it! It was awful having to deal with not only my disbelief, but hers as well!:(

But now it's time to plan for today.

1. Gotta get those vitamins in first thing.
2. Drink, drink, drink.
3. Exercise on that treadie; I'd love to shoot for 60 min., but I don't know if my schedule will allow.
4. Eat low on the points--I only have FIVE points left to get me through 'til Monday!:eek: MelanieC and several others have said that maintenance is supposed to be easier later on if you're eating your flexpoints along the way. I shouldn't have any problems with that!:p

OK, today I'm gonna shine my light :sunny: , wear m

y shades :smooth: and take off into the day!

Onward and downward--only three pounds 'til my 20 lb. clippie!

princess: L.

Edits:

Vitamins taken.:D
Three glasses of water/decaf liquid.
B--egg, toast, coffee=6
L--3 crackers, 1/2 slice cheese, 5 olives=3

Aww gee, at 4:00 p.m. things took a sudden turn for the worse as we decided to go out for a winter storm dinner. We went to P. Uno and I blew it for the day. We rented movies and I'm planning to eat some popcorn tonight!! I'm giving in all over the place!

Still, I feel it shouldn't be a crime to have some popcorn with my family on a snowy night, but because I've blown all my reserves in the bank, I'm removing my clippie.

Tomorrow's a new day.:(
Erin

[DoeWDW]

You are just melting away!! :Pinkbounc

Keep up the great work AND the great attitude, Erin! I just know you'll have a new clippie soon!

Here we go, into the snow! It's really looking like a Christmas card out there. Enjoy the day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

I WILL NOT even go near the scale today. . .my rings are so tight I know that that mean thing will say I've picked up three pounds in water weight. No, instead I'm looking toward weigh-in on Monday, and I'm vowing to be extra good today, at the same time forgiving myself for yesterday.

Now it's CHEAT FREE TIL THE END OF 2003! I'm hoping my new mantra will lead me into the new year strong and fit.

Goals: vitamins, water, low points, and EXERCISE! Off to the treadie I go this a.m.! NO EXCUSES! If anyone hears me offering excuses, you have the right to yell at and threaten me!!!

Here I go!

Vitamins :D
Water 5
Exercise 74:16 minutes, 5 miles on the Treadie. :hyper:
Food: 23.5, I'm turning over my clippie back to a cheat free day!

[DoeWDW]

Erin, it sounds like you picked the perfect way to spend a snowy evening with your family. There's nothing wrong with that! This is life and it's meant to be lived! That includes the occasional night of pizza and popcorn. You made a choice and you are prepared to get back on track to get rid of the consequences (that water weight!). Since it's only water, it'll be gone in no time!

Last night wasn't much better for me so we'll get back on track together, OK? If you do your treadie, I'll do my Pilates - deal?? Since you're in a townhouse, do you have to shovel snow or is it taken care of for you?? I'll be shoveling :D so I'll get EXTRA exercise today. DH has a bad cold so the kids and I will take care of the 10"+ of snow outside.

Here we go again, princess: Lulu!! :sunny:

princess: Doe-Doe, your WISH-sis!

[septbride2002]

Erin,
Thank you for the wonderful post! Yes I will join you in trying to make today a cheat free day. And actually although it is only 12:45p.m. here I am doing much better today then I have been for the rest of this week.

I slept in this morning so I did not eat breakfast. I did have a diet coke this morning since I had a bit of a caffine headache about an hour ago. For lunch I had two pieces of fish on the George Forman Grill with Cajun seasonings - it was delicious! My side item was 1 cup of greenbeans. Right now I am sipping a Hot Apple Cider Drink with only 4 carbs in it. I can't believe the weekend is actually helping me get back on track.

Dinner tonight is either going to be fish again or I might make some pork chops. Veggies will be either greenbeans and salad or grilled zuccini if I have one.

Thanks for the encouragement, it really does help!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

I had a really good day yesterday--food-wise, exercise-wise, life-wise:D . Now I'm ready to hop into today.

Gotta take those vitamins, drink the water, exercise 30 min. on the treadie (uhh, no 5 miler today), and eat low on the points. My target number is now 22!

We've got a busy day ahead: I have rehearsal and a service to sing at, DD has a different service and a rehearsal from 12-6 to sing at, and DH has yet another service--at a different church, no less--to play at. Such is the life of a family of musicians!:crazy:

I'm feeling upbeat and positive after a day of R and R and a night of 9 hours of sleep!:o

Here I go!

Edits:

b--7 (with my extra cup of Sunday coffee)
l--11.5
Vitamins--check
water--2
exercise--31 min., 1.85 mi. (off my regular time a bit)
s--diet coke at the mall
d--8
Total: 26.5

Cheat free 'til the end of 2003!
Erin:

[septbride2002]

Congrats to you on earning your clippie. I didn't earn mine. Here is my post as to why.

"Well I blew it yesterday. I was good during the day and in the evening snacked on some Gouda Cheese (yummy!) and some beef jerky. But then as we were watching "White Christmas" my DH brought in a huge plate of Pizza Rolls. BRING EM' HERE! And I ate a lot. Like 15 or 20. I'm off to the corner hoping today will be a better day.

~Amanda"

But I am going to try again today. I also feel like I am getting sick with either a really bad cold or strep throat - it is to soon to tell. So hopefully that will help me to eat a little less today.

Sory that I didn't earn my clippie with ya. Those Pizza Rolls were just to darn tempting.

~Amanda

[Castillo Mom]

You're a busy gal Erin! How nice to have a family of musicians. What instrument does your husband play? As I mentioned on my journal, I'll be weighing in tomorrow morning, so let's cross our fingers and hope that the woosh fairy pays us a visit. Enjoy the rest of your day!:D

[DoeWDW]

Hi Erin!!

You're doing well and sounding so upbeat! :D Were you singing a solo or with a group this morning? I bet you sounded great AND looked great - you know all this healthy living gives us a special healthy glow!! ::yes::

You did amazing on your treadie yesterday and did almost 2 miles today - WOW! You might make that half marathon yet! This spring you'll be flying through those 10k walks!! I'd better start training so I can keep up with you!!

You're on a roll, Erin - keep it up!! :sunny:

[lulu201]

It's Monday, 12/8, and I'm holding steady at 175. I'm OK with that, particularly after the binge I had on Friday. It's now a new week and I'm rolling into it with a brand new bank of 35 points; I'm determined to be holding some by Sunday!

Challenge for the week: Winter Musicale on Friday for adult students in our studio. It will be a catered luncheon with everyone bringing desserts. Yikes! Will have to save lots of points for that!

Challenges for today:

Vitamins--check!
Exercise--30 min. minimum
Water--6-8 glasses (not including decaf beverages)
Points--I'm trying the target of 22, but will bank activity points to be used on the same day as per MelanieC's suggestion
Coffee--just one, just one.:(

OK, Monday, here I come. Cheat free 'til the end of 2003!
Erin

Here's the scoop:
All the vitamins, all the water, 30 min. and 2 mi. on the treadie, and points as follows:

b--6, l--12, s--0, s--2, d--6=26-2 Activity points=24 Total/33 left in bank. Yippee:Pinkbounc

Off to my nice warm bed.:o

[DoeWDW]

You go, girl!!!! You are on track and doing GREAT! :sunny:

Have a day fit for royalty, princess: Lulu!! :D

princess: Doe-Doe

[Castillo Mom]

Good moring Erin!:D We're both pretty much holding steady this Monday. You're doing great with exercise. I think you're doing enough for both of us. Keep up the good work and I hope you have a great week!

[lulu201]

Tuesday, 12/9

Here's the agenda for today:

1. Vitamins--:D and already set out for tomorrow!
2. Coffee--all done. :(
3. Water--one down, five to go.
4. Points--want to stay low; saving up for the luncheon on Fri. Also want to wear my new size 12 black wool pants. :smooth:
5. Exercise--nope, not today. I'm too busy, plus I need a day of rest. On Wednesday I'll be back to the treadie. No excuses!

Food:
b--toast w/lite cr. cheese, 1 tsp. peach jelly, coffee w/cr.=4
l--plans for pb sandwich and veggies=8
d--plans for two tacos=12
s--one point for this or that=1
25 for day, taking 3 from the bank to leave me 30.

I said good bye to a pound this a.m.; that makes me 2 lbs. from my 20 lb. clippie. I want that baby bad!!!:p I want to be wearing it by Christmas--and maybe my skinny jeans?;)

Off and running! I wanna be cheat free 'til the end of 2003!
Whoopee!:Pinkbounc

Erin

edit: stuck to the plan, made it in at 25 today; total in bank=30.

Ooh, I'm tuckered out, but I got a number of compliments today from parents in my classes about how good I look. Everyone always wants to know how it comes off. Wouldn't it be nice if there was an easy answer? :D More on that subject tomorrow.
Now, I'm about ready to crash.

Here's to another cheat free day! I'm lovin' it!

[DoeWDW]

Hello Skinny Erin, Goodbye Extra Pound!!! :cool1: :wave2:

You are on a roll!!! Keep it up and I just KNOW that clippie and those skinny jeans will be a daily part of your life in no time!! ::yes::

I like the way you're planning ahead for that Friday luncheon. You know it's coming, you're being realistic about what you expect to eat there and you're saving the points for it. I'm crossing my fingers for you to be able to wear those sleek black wool pants - you'll be looking tres chic!!

Soak up these good days, Erin! They'll help us get through the tough times! :sunny:

Enjoy your busy day, princess: Lulu and take good care of you!!

princess: Doe-Doe, your WISH-sis! :sunny:

[lulu201]

12/10 Wednesday

Feeling hungry, but happy this a.m. Another pound has left the building. Goodbye and good riddance!:Pinkbounc

Plan for today:
1. Vitamins--they're already out on the counter.
2. Exercise--30 min. on the treadie later this a.m.
3. Water--gotta drink those 6-8 glasses!
4. Food--22 pt. target, plus 2 for activity, plus 1 from the bank=25
for the day
5. Coffee--one cup, though, if someone twisted my arm really hard, I might not be able to resist a second in the p.m. . . .NO, THAT IS NOT ACCEPTABLE!!! Green tea, instead.:p

Yesterday when a few people were asking me how I've lost weight, I think they were surprised how multi-layered this all is. They want a simple answer like, "WW" or "Exercise" and it really is such a combination of so many things: my faith, my WISH friends (and you know that you, Doreen, are a key player in my support system, princess: that you are), WW, exercise, and drinking water. It's such a mental process--it's about wanting more out of life, about wanting a healthier future. It has truly been a lifestyle change for me, and a realization that walking this narrow path of healthy food choices is more rewarding than the free-for-all I lived before. Maybe a binge of yummy things satisfies me momentarily, but a healthier restrictive eating plan brings me good health and emotional well-being. I feel in control of my destiny--I'm stronger than those darn Butterfingers now--and not captive to every passing thought of chocolate! Of course, you'll have to check back with me on that when I'm in the TOM Danger Zone, but for today, I'm feeling strong. And you know what? Today is all I have to worry about.

OK, just had to have a little philosophical ramble here. Now I'm off to start the day! It's onward and downward, cheat free 'til the end of 2003!

Erin

Edit: b--toast, lite cr. cheese, fresh pineapple, coffee w/ cr.=4
mid-morning snack--an orange, 1 or 2 points, have to check
lunch--McD. salad=11.5
dinner on the run--pbutter sandwich on 12 grain bread=8
yellow pepper and celery sticks
dessert (while watching Trista and Ryan's wedding:p)--sugar free jello w/lite whipped topping=0
cup of coffee in the p.m.=1

Exercise--30 min., 2.04 mi. on treadie
Vitamins--done.
Water--approx. 56 oz.

Turned out to be a good day, food-wise and other-wise.

[DoeWDW]

You know me, Erin - always glad to help support a fellow princess: !! :D I'm so happy we're on this journey together, because we're stronger together than alone!!

Another pound gone???!!!! WOW! :jumping3: Pretty soon I'll need a magnifying glass :magnify: to find you!! Bye-bye pound. :wave2: You are hereby banished from the WISH kingdom, never to return!

You are so right about this being an effort that involves so many facets of our lives. I think it's much more of a mental and emotional journey - the physical consequence is weight loss and being healthier. That's why it's fun to watch the scale go down, but we can't let that be the only measure of our success.

OK, now I'm the one being philosophic in YOUR journal! :crazy:

Have a wonderful day, Erin, filled with :sunny: !!

[lulu201]

12/11 Two Weeks 'Til Christmas!:Pinkbounc

I'm holding steady at 173 this a.m., which I think is a good thing. Yesterday I experienced a few spells of lightheadedness/dizziness/flashing vision--low blood pressure? So when I came home at 9 p.m. and my stomach was still growling after my jello, I checked my point bank and made a withdrawal. No binges, just healthy, filling choices. That was a significant move on my part--previously I would've just started a graze through the kitchen, but I wasn't giving up my cheat free clippie for anything!

So, I start the day with 20 in the bank. I plan to stick firmly to 22 points today so that I have 10 points (Thurs. and Fri.) to use at the luncheon on Fri. If I need to use another 5, I can take it from Sat., but I want to leave myself a cushion. I think, though, that I need to follow MelanieC's example and eat these points. My loss has been quick sometimes--not that I'm complaining;) , and I certainly don't want to jinx things, but I don't want to lose weight in an unhealthy way. After all, this is my game plan for LIFE!

OK, so two great things happened yesterday. First, the parent of a student who I haven't seen in about 6 years came into the studio. I couldn't really talk because I was teaching, but it was good to see her. AND it was good to be seen! For the first time in so long, I wasn't self-conscious at all. I wasn't thinking, "oh, my gosh, I bet she's thinking I'm huge 'cause I've gained a ton." No, instead I was thinking, "I either look just the same as six years ago--or better!":smooth: It was a great feeling.

The other thing happened in Walgreens, and Doreen, I have to admit this with regret. I'm no Princess. At least, not yet.:( I'm still a Queen! Queen-size that is!:p I was looking for stockings and checked the back of the L'eggs package--I only have three more pounds to go and I'll be in size B again. I guess if 170+ is Queen, then size B must be Princess! I refuse to wear my princess: until I'm Princess-size again!:p

Plans for this new day.

1. :D
2. Take my vitamins.
3. Drink my water. It was much easier in a sports bottle yesterday. Going to do that again today.
4. Stay low, low, low in my points. 22 is the tops.
5. No exercise 'til my treadie date tomorrow.
6. Even though I'm dying to try the candy cane cappucino at 7-11. . .I'm going to try to avoid temptation.

I'm onward, I'm downward, I'm cheat-free til the end of '03!

Queen Lulu--looking forward to being a princess!

Edit:

1. Smiling!
2. Took the vitamins and set them out for tomorrow.
3. 24 oz. gone.
4. B--1 (just coffee this a.m., not hungry yet)
5. No candy cane cappucino, but stopped at WaWa and got hazelnut instead. It was a good compromise. As I was going into WaWa, wearing my big winter coat, a neighbor who I haven't seen in awhile came out the door. She stopped and said, "oh, my gosh, how much weight have you lost??" I had to laugh because she knows what a yo-yo I am, and I said, "almost 30, again." We got a chuckle out of it together. I'm surprised, though, that it's that apparent to people all of a sudden.

OK, back to the real world. Got a message on the machine that the studio has some flooding. DH is down there dealing with it; until I talk to him, I'll just stay put.

Edit:
l--buffalo chicken salad (small version)=8.5
plans for snacks--1/2 orange=.5 and 1 serving cheese-its=4
dinner--tuna salad and 9 saltines=8
dessert--sugar free jello/topping=0
Total=22/20 in bank

[DoeWDW]

Gee, I've never thought of you as Queen Lulu, but if that's what you want...... No, can't do it! You're still a princess: to me - no matter what the L'Eggs company thinks!! :teeth: But if you want to wait to claim that princess, then I'll try to wait too.

:umbrella: Yup, lots of rain here too. Too dreary! We'll just have to make our own :sunny: !! Sounds like you made some lovely sunshine yesterday when that parent stopped by the studio!! I bet you were beaming! :sunny: You should be so proud of you and how far you've come!

You've got a good handle on your points this week! Only one more day until that luncheon! Hang in there, Erin - I know you can make it!

Onward and downward we go!!

[septbride2002]

I wanted to post and say Congrats on being cheat free for 6 days! That is awesome! I am going to be starting up again on Sunday I've been hit with the flu bug big time and had to stop dieting to concentrate on getting better. You will be in those size B panty hose in no time!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Oooh, I'm excited this morning! I have a brand new outfit I'm wearing: my 20 lb. clippie!
:Pinkbounc :bounce: :jumping3: :jumping4:

I'm running around like a chicken this a.m. trying to get ready for DD's ride to school plus our "Winter Musicale, " so will only write a brief outline of goals:

1. Vitamins--ready to go downstairs.
2. Coffee--only one; unless I succumb at WaWa later?:rolleyes:
3. Water--I've got to drink tons!
4. Points--a little more leeway today, probably 27-29 because of the luncheon.
5. Exercise--things are so crazy. . .if I can get in just a 15 minute mile, I'll be happy.

OK, I'm off and running and :Pinkbounc !

Onward and downward, cheat free 'til the end of '03!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

I won't have to call you Queen Lulu for much longer!! :teeth:

:jumping1: A BEAUTIFUL NEW CLIPPIE!! :jumping1:

You are lookin' GOOD this morning, Erin!! I bet you'll be lookin' svelte in those black wool pants for the Winter Musicale today!! AND you have the points to enjoy yourself!! AND you survived baking BREAD last night for your students!! AND you get to see the hard work of your students (and the hard work of their devoted teacher) pay off!! OH MY GOSH!!! Do things GET any better????? :cool1:

I am so thrilled for you, WISH-sis!! WISH I could be there to share in your joy today! I have tears of joy in my eyes just thinking about how far you've come!! I'll be with you in spirit today!

:hug:
Doreen

Edit: 10 PM
I hope you're sleeping soundly. I bet you had a good day but a long and tiring day. Sleep tight, Queen Lulu!

[lulu201]

12/13 Yesterday was a :sunny: :sunny: day. I felt good wearing my new clippie and was uplifted by Doreen's warm comments to my journal. We had a lovely musicale--eight of us met and shared music and cultures and experiences--it was a celebration of music and new-found friendships. The women there ranged in age from 42-79 and we shared a wide range of ethnic and religious backgrounds. It was one of those times when the spirit of the season is in place and so strong that it can almost be touched! It was so nice.

This morning I'm not too happy, though, 'cause I lost my cheat free clippie. I was in control until I came home at around 8 p.m. and then I gave in to some popcorn. I tried to figure out points and ate the popcorn thinking it was within my point range, but when I tried to figure it out again, I found it wasn't. Once I felt like I blew it, I ate two pieces of banana bread and drank some orange juice to boot. I was weak, and now I'm sad. Oh, and I'm still trying to figure out how much I ate.

I'm not going to go on and on about it--I've just got to drag myself into the day and let it go, but yesterday's tears of joy are today's tears of shame and disappointment (sheesh, could I get into any more drama here?!). Oh, pooh on the whole thing.

I've got so much to do; I fell asleep early last night, but was up at 2:30 worrying about how I'm going to get it all done. I should've taken the opportunity to get my Christmas cards done instead of fret like I did!

I'm all blechy this a.m., but I'll take the vitamins and drink the water. Had at least 4 cups of coffee yesterday--along with a major p.m. carb fest--so I'll be sure to cut back today. Exercise? Maybe I'll try to take Mickey for a walk while the sun shines. I know I need to pump my endorphins some--d-zone is not far off--but I don't know if I'll bring myself to do it.

Maybe later on I'll be able to look at my choice of behaviors last night in a more objective way, but now I'm just going to stay disgusted. It takes less energy.

:( Erin

[DoeWDW]

Dearest Queen Lulu,

Usually I am nice. I offer these lovely comments that are warm and supportive. I don't think you've seen my other side. :confused: Please know that everything after this is typed with love.....

Well, here goes!

Erin, you are NOT ALLOWED to wallow in guilt, shame and disappointment this morning! You have come a long way. You had a long and stressful day yesterday (even good experiences cause stress!). You came home late. You had a million things on your mind for the holidays. What's to figure out??

LET IT GO!

Today is a new day. You feel yucky but you'll go back to your healthy living routines and feel better in no time.

Life is too short, girlfriend! We're gonna have those episodes. Hopefully they will become fewer and further between. It doesn't mean we've failed - it just means we're human.

Now, stop with the pity party and get on with healthy living! It's the quickest way to feeling better!

OK, enough Tough Love for one morning!

It's a new day and we're both starting fresh. Here's some extra :sunny: just in case there are any more bad feelings lurking in your psyche. :p

Onward and downward we go, together, step by step, not perfect but still on the road to healthy living!!

:hug:
Doreen

[DoeWDW]

:jumping3: :jumping3: YOU GOT TAGGED!!! :jumping3: :jumping3:

How cool is that??!!??

I'm not sure what the last one means though.....

Hope I wasn't too hard on you earlier.... :worried:

Here's another :hug: ,
Doreen, your WISH-sis

[lulu201]

OH, MY GOSH! :p :Pinkbounc I got tagged!:Pinkbounc Thank you, oh, thank you, Tag Fairy! You sure gave me a smile!:p

Thanks for telling me, Doreen, or I might not have noticed it right away! Oh, and Doreen, I appreciate your "tough love" approach--I needed it. True friends can give each other the honest picture, and we are true friends, :hug:, WISHing our way to success!:p

Without a good night's sleep and lots of holiday stress, I'm finding it a bit difficult to find my happy, centered place--I just have to accept this mood for what it is. We've got to get to the mall this afternoon, take DD to a friend's house before her evening concert, visit a Colonial Christmas presentation at a nearby church to hear one of my student's play, grab a bite to eat, and then head to the concert. Tomorrow's promise of snow, and the peaceful afternoon that you described in your journal, Doreen, are offering me the promise of a better-paced day.
Also, called DHs mom this a.m. and she told us DHs Dad is back in the hospital; he passed out in the bathroom, and then passed out in the hallway early this morning, fell THROUGH the wall, and is now in the ER. We're waiting to here what is happening. DH and I are wondering if maybe he passed out in the tree while hunting and that caused his fall in November. Hopefully we'll find out more soon.

I'm sticking to the plan today, but pretty just taking things moment by moment.

Thanks, Doreen, and thanks Tag Fairy! You both brightened my day!:sunny:

Erin

PS Doreen, I think the conspiracy theory has to do with Colonel at KFC and the General Tso at the Chinese Buffet. . .I'll have to go back and check some earlier entries to be sure.

[lulu201]

Later that same day. . .:D Back from the concert--which was very nice. DD was excited because afterwards there's a slumber party she's going to--I'll be out the door tomorrow a.m. so I can pick her up at 7! We're both singing in church tomorrow--she with the Youth Choir and I with our Contempory Service's Worship Team. We have to be dressed and ready to rehearse at 8:30. DH is playing drums at a cantata at another church. The evening is supposed to be our Festival of Carols--that is, if we don't get snowed out. It's always a special evening. Looks like it's just another musical day.:D

Update on DH's dad. . .they have not been able to determine the cause of the internal bleeding yet. Tomorrow they'll do a colonoscopy and see if they discover anything there. They've ruled out any head and neck injuries from his fall into the wall.

I approached today a little differently food-wise, mostly because I was still smarting from the bad choices I made last night. I counted points through lunch, and then just tried to make good choices when DH and I went out for dinner. We stopped at Quiznos and shared one of their low-fat sandwiches and each had a small diet soda. At the mall while shopping we stopped at Baskin-Robbins and had nonfat yogurt (2 points). At the reception we shared a 1" by 1 1/2" square of sour cream chocolate chip cake (that translates into one bite each) that I had brought (made by one of the ladies at our church), I had a small pretzel and a small slice of cheese. We also had some punch. I had saved lots of points for the evening, so even though I don't have an exact total, there was no mindless bingeing. . .I'm counting it as cheat-free.

I guess I over-reacted to cheating on my plan today because deep inside I feel like I'm only a binge away from losing total control and gaining back 28 lbs. in a heart beat. It's like MelanieC said as she was getting ready for WDW--she was afraid that she wouldn't be able to get back on the program if she got off it while on vacation. I've :yo-yo: so many times--I'm not really trusting myself that this time I won't just fall apart all over again. When I indulge mindlessly like I did last night I'm afraid, I guess, that my worst fears just might come true--that I really AM a failure at losing weight and living a healthy life.

It was good to have Doreen give me a kick in the pants and jolt me out of my negative thinking patterns (can you tell I read some of Dr. Phil today? :p). She made me feel stronger and more capable than I felt this morning. She helped me put things back into perspective. Thank you, Doreen, I'm blessed to have you.

A year ago, I never would have THOUGHT about trying to eat healthy during the holidays. I would've just accepted the fact that I was going to gain weight. Now, maybe I'm not being as realistic and supportive to myself as I should be. It's not always the severe either/or situation that I put myself in. Maybe I should shoot for a middle ground for a couple of days?

Geez, I'm thinking too much. It's definitely time to put a lid on this and MOVE ON.

Onward and downward--or maybe side-ways for a few days?

Q. Lulu

[DoeWDW]

Good snowy morning, Erin! :umbrella: We only have a dusting so far and the weather people are calling for a total of about 4" in our area. Your area usually escapes with less - lucky you! :p
Nonetheless, be careful driving today, OK?

First of all, I will keep your FIL and all of your family in my prayers. I hope they can quickly find and fix the bleeding AND figure out why he's passing out. How scary that must be for your MIL!! Sometimes I think it's tougher to be the spouse rather than the patient - you care so much and yet you feel so powerless to make things better. Do they live close to you?

Enjoy your musical day! I am a bit envious, I must admit! In school I sang and played flute. If there was a musical group, I was in it!! Watching my kids' concert the other night reminded me how much I miss all that music in my life. Maybe I should clip my fingernails and drag out my guitar and see if I actually remember how to play?? You may want to keep my family and their ears in YOUR prayers....LOL!!

I like your attitude about food. Make good choices but don't obsess! I do think we can become too rigid and have that all or nothing attitude that leads to binges when we can't be perfect. I can understand those feelings of uncertainty and worry, though!! This is such a mental thing, isn't it??? When I start becoming too rigid, I set myself up for failure. I guess that's why I've given up on the cheat-free bear for now. It was hurting me more than helping me.

Erin, you'll find your way! We are in unfamiliar territory, redefining our relationship with food. I think we just have to keep trying different attitudes until we find the one that honors us and this holy temple we've been entrusted with. It's just that we're out of our old way of relating to food and still working to find the best new way of relating to food, so we end up feeling lost and uncomfortable a LOT! My only words of wisdom....have patience, keep trying, and this too shall pass.

Enough philosophy in your journal! Onward to a :sunny: day! I'm so glad we're doing this together! :happy1: I think writing all these thoughts down helps me clarify them for me as much as for you! :teeth:

:hug:
Doreen, your WISH-sis

[lulu201]

December 14. . .

It's a beautiful snowy day. We had a lovely church service this a.m.; DH was able to come since his gig at the other church was called off because of the weather. We're still waiting to hear if we're going back out tonight. If the picture outside my window right now is any indicator, we'll be staying home. The Festival of Carols is quite a big event at our church though--the adult, youth, junior, and cherub choirs along with the contemporary service's singer/band ensemble sing, the bell choirs ring, and special soloists and instrumental ensembles perform. It's always a wonderful time of great music and terrific fellowship, but if God is giving us a snow day, so be it! You know, Doreen, it may be rescheduled for 1/11. . .if you want to come over and bring your flute, I'm sure that our director could find a spot for you!

Intense PMS is putting an unwanted edge on me today. I've got to watch myself. The stress I've been feeling lately is only making things worse. I hope to drink lots of water, maybe go for a slow treadie walk, maybe grab a nap?, to lessen the tension I've been feeling. I'm going to try to focus on all the beauty of the season. . .what gets done, gets done. Like the annual Christmas newsletter--it's out the window for this year. Maybe people will enjoy an update in 2004?:p

OK, goals:
1. Vitamins--particularly important as TOM approaches w/a vengeance. (sp?)
2. Water--6-8 glasses.
3. Exercise--maybe.
4. Food--I have a plan mapped out, should be around 25 points.

Doreen, I appreciate you sharing your thoughts in my journal. I value your perspective and "take" on the struggles we may face on the journey. Writing in this journal helps me so much in figuring things out, and meeting you and your words here each day gives me strength to continue the walk on the healthy living road.:D

Think I'll go make a salad now then cuddle with an afghan and the puppy for awhile. ::yes::

Erin

[lulu201]

12/15 OK, so I managed to cuddle with the puppy and the afghan and take a snooze, but I never did take those vitamins.:rolleyes: Oh, well, priorities, right?

I've decided not to weigh in today. . .yesterday I had my salad as planned, but I also had three or four chocolate chip cookies!:p Not a problem, though, I needed to kick back and relax with everything--food included--so I decided to cut myself some major slack. Because of that, I'm ready to start a new week.

Here's the plan:
1. Vitamins--they're all set out and ready to take.
2. Water--2 glasses down, 4-6 to go.
3. Coffee--1 cup, all finished. Only green tea from here on in.
4. Points--target is a low 22; I'll add a few points from the bank as necessary.
5. Exercise--maybe. I know it would be good for me, but I have a million things to get done today. Eating right may be all that I can handle.

It was a weekend full of ups and downs. . .some of them TOM related. I'm going to wait until Thursday and just do one weigh in this week--I'll count that towards both the WISH check in and the New Year's Challenge.

This week has some serious challenges ahead. I host little class parties throughout the last week before our holiday break. Families bring in treats to share and we set up a little party/buffet table with the goodies. I'll host 11 of these events!I will literally be surrounded by yummy things all week long!
I've had varied success over the years trying to manage a healthy eating plan during this week in December. Sometimes I'll make it through the whole day and then fall apart as soon as I get in the door, other years I've just decided to eat a brownie here or there and not worry. Neither approach has had a good result. This year I hope to be armed with my water bottle and healthy snacks (fruit and veggies) to eat in between events! I'm also hoping that my Thursday weigh-in will be a good motivator.

Also, we're blessed by the kindnesses of many families in our music school. At this time of year, this kindness often is shared by food gifts like you wouldn't believe. DH and I have been thinking about ways to handle this, too, and we're going to put everything behind closed cabinet doors so that I'm not "exposed" to chocolate covered pretzels, truffles, other boxed candies, the homemade fudge, etc. Thank goodness for DH, he is so incredibly supportive. :lovestruc

Ooh, I just got a PM notice. . .I'm going to run and read it.

I'll post about my day later.
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Erin, I had no idea this week had soooo many temptations in it for you!! I'm sending extra :sunny: , :hug: , :wizard: , and good thoughts your way! You make a good point (I'm REALLY feeling like Goldilocks today!!) - being too rigid is tough and eating everything is not good - I hope you can find that middle ground. Maybe you should tuck some of those homemade gifts into the freezer and save them for another time of year!!

Have a wonderful day, WISH-sis Erin! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Why didn't I think of the FREEZER?! Guess because I always wanted to eat everything!:p Yep, this year the fudge gets frozen.

Hectic, fun, crazy day ahead with ten zillion temptations. Plan of action: don't eat any junk at the holiday class parties, but have a teeny tiny dessert when I'm out tonight. Drink lots of water, take my vitamins, drink some more water, and write everything down.

Yesterday I did OK with the points--27/30 left in bank. I'm trying to withdraw more from the bank on a day to day basis--maybe that will help me avoid a binge? We'll see. . .

I didn't weigh in yet this week. Hoping to wait until Thursday a.m.
I can't be emotionally tied to the scale in all this chaos!

I'm off to start the day. Onward and downward!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Another hectic day!!??!! Do things EVER slow down in your life, Erin??? I hope that after the holidays you get a chance to relax and recharge those batteries - I'm afraid they might be getting low! Please take extra good care of yourself today! ::yes::

:hug:
Doreen

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :wave2:

Usually you're posting first, but today I'm the Early Bird!! :teeth: Hmmm, do you think worms are low-carb?? :crazy:

I hope you had a great day yesterday with all the festivities! I bet you were exhausted last night! I also hope you got a good night's rest - we royal types need our beauty sleep, ya know??

I also hope today goes well for you. I don't know about you but I'm knee-deep in the D-Zone, so I'll be working extra hard today to stay on track!

By the way, how's your FIL?? I hope he's feeling better and recovering nicely.

Here's some extra :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: for you, Erin! Use it to fight off that Munchie Monster!! I'm sending him packing from my house, so he'll be looking for another victim..... :p

:hug:
Doreen

[lulu201]

12/17 I made it through the worship team party without too much trouble--I allowed myself a little bit of everything and extra on the tossed salad. It was a nice evening of fellowship, but it was almost 11:30 by the time I got to bed. Who set the alarm for 5:45??????

Now I'm off to start the day. Plans are to take the vitamins, drink EXTRA water, stay within the points, and try to hold off on the coffee. That one, though, I can't really promise to stick to. I work until 8 p.m. and then have to take DD back to Kohl's, so the extra java may give me the energy I need. I'll have to detox this weekend.:p

FIL is still in the hospital, and has been diagnosed with an ulcer. Hopefully he'll be home later today. MIL is supposed to come and spend the night tomorrow night after attending DDs school choral concert. . .we'll see if she's comfortable leaving him.

Tomorrow will be weigh-in; the first one since last Friday. Since then I've had two parties, a binge :mad:, no exercise, and the bloat fairy has come over (gee, thanks for that, Doreen!)! Still I'm trying to remain optimistic--whatever the scale says I can correct in time. This week is the toughest one, temptation-wise; I'm going to get through it and hold my head up because I even TRIED to take care of myself!

Onward and downward with a ho-ho-ho!
Erin

[septbride2002]

I just had to tell you that I earned my clippie today! :)

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Good luck with the scale tomorrow morning, Erin! I'll be thinking of you! No matter what that scale says, you'll always be a princess: in my book! ::yes::

[lulu201]

Modifying my clippies--I'm back up a pound. I can deal with it--the weekend and some healthy living strategies are coming! I have to agree with what you said in your journal, Doreen--I'm not feeling too worried either for some reason. At the moment, I feel like I can cope.

MIL is coming to spend the night tonight. I have to do some last minute house cleaning before I head off to work, so I'm going to zip on outa here. I won't have any time to catch up here until tomorrow. . .I'm looking forward to some quiet time where I can assess the healthy living situation and plan some pampering for the weekend! I'm missing my water and my exercise!

Onward, at the very least--

Erin

[DoeWDW]

I only have a moment this morning, but wanted to pop in and send some :sunny: your way!! I know bright light scares away the Munchie Monster, but does it also scare away the Bloat Fairy?? If so, then this :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: should take care of him but good!!

Onward for now, downward to come, Erin! :D

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :wave2:

I hope all is well and you had a restful night's sleep. I also hope you and your family are enjoying the time with your MIL. The weekend is almost here, and I hope you have some "relax" time built into the schedule! You are NOT an Energizer bunny - you have to recharge sometime! ::yes::

I'm sending happy thoughts, pixie dust and warm smiles your way!

:hug:
Doreen

[lulu201]

12/19 It's Friday!:D It's been quite a week, and I feel like I've come through it to a peaceful place. Like just about everybody, I have things to do for the holidays yet, but I feel like I can find the joy in the busy-ness.

My MIL is on her way home. Our visit was short, but it meant a lot to her to see DD in her concert (DD sang in 3 different ensembles!:D); I was pretty frazzled about her coming--housework needed to be done, etc--but what was essential was completed. She and I had some time together to have coffee this a.m. and talk about plans for a family get-together on Christmas day; again, plans are to just do what's essential. With DBIL in Afghanistan, the first Christmas without my MILs mother (who passed away last January), and a cousin expecting surgery, things will be very different. I also had time this a.m. to call a friend whose husband just passed away. . .it was good to hear her voice and tell her I was thinking about her.

I've tried to keep a realistic perspective on this week. I'd be lying if I said that I passed up every goodie that came my way, but in the midst of Godiva chocolates, iced brownies, and chocolate-dipped biscotti, I've been on the path of moderation. I've indulged some, but there have been many things I haven't reached for. When I look at my way of thinking this Christmas as compared to other years, I'm happy about where I'm at. I've come a long way, and I'm proud of the change in ME!:sunny:

Today I've taken my vitamins (I think?), had my coffee (though I'll have one at WaWa later), and am hoping for a low point day.

Food: toast w/cr. cheese and jelly, coffee w/cream=4

Off to start the day!
Erin

Edit: had to go to Kohl's again (!) and while I was there I found an adorable holiday sweater with two little westies on it! I bought it in a size M! Oh, happy day!:D

Lunch: tuna salad and crackers=7

Feeling like I need a nap, but will work on Christmas cards a little instead. Or maybe I'll just close my eyes a little and think about cards?:o

Snack: tangerine=1
nice, refreshing cat nap=0

[DoeWDW]

A nap??!! Good for you!! You recognized that your body wanted some rest and I bet you feel lots better!! I'm glad today has not been as hectic as some of your other days this week! ::yes::

Your new sweater sounds so cute (and so SMALL)!! Some day I'll have to show you my dachshund sweater!!

Enjoy your weekend, Queen Lulu! You've certainly earned it!! :sunny:

[lulu201]

:rolleyes: The good news is that it was a nice day that ended with DH and I going out for a nice dinner. The bad news is that I ate some not-so-nice food and had a not-so-nice cheat. To help me to relieve the guilt, I'm vowing tonight to make tomorrow a cheat free day. Also I'm going to walk on the treadie. There, I feel better already. . .tomorrow's a new day!

[DoeWDW]

Here's an extra large :hug: for you this morning, Erin! I feel your pain - all you have to do is read my journal. :(

We both know that this is a long-term journey. I think we've hit another bump, girlfriend!

However, today is a new day, a new beginning. I have to believe that we'll have more good days than bad days in the future, as long as we're still trying to live healthy.

Onward we go, Erin! I'm glad we're on this journey together :happy1: It's times like this when I feel like throwing in the towel but then I have you, my WISH-sis, to lean on. We'll support each other and keep each other going, right? ::yes::

Day by day, step by step, onward we go, occasionally getting sidetracked or detoured but always striving to be the best we can be. :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[lulu201]

12/20 Oy-vay, things are not going well today. I'm munching up any yummy chocolate goodie that crosses my line of vision. I'm going to have to get going and give it all away. I'll start tomorrow at church.

Monday is weigh-in and I'm going to face it whether it's good or not. I have to accept some responsibility for being off program.

I'm waiting for a WISH-sis response. . .

[septbride2002]

HI Lulu,
Weigh in days are the worst after you have been off program - but sometimes they help us to see the error in our ways and help us to get back on program with some reinforced attitudes! :hug:

Now I want you to stop making yourself feel so bad about this. We are all human and we all sway of our path. The important thing is that you get back on it. That shows you are a survivor::yes::

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin!! :wave2:

It's "Healthy Living Day" - are you ready?? I am!!

I'm already in my workout clothes and will be getting that exercise in early so I can cross it off my "to-do" list.

We can do this! :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

Your WISH-sis,
Doreen

[lulu201]

You bet I'm ready, Doreen! I'm off to get my WW journal--I'm keeping track of everything that l eat. Then I'm going to make sugar free jello for DH and I for our late night snack.

You're inspiring me with your exercise clothes, but I'm going to wait until I get home from church. I promise, though, that I'll be on that treadie before I have lunch. How's that?

We're doing this, Princess Doe-Doe. We're breaking the cycle of holiday eating and excess by treating ourselves right JUST FOR TODAY!:sunny:

Sisters Helping Sisters--or better yet: Sisters Offering Support (SOS!). That's us!:happy1:

Erin

Edit: b--1 egg, 1 slice of twelve grain toast, 1 tsp. butter, coffee with 1 shot of half and half=6
l--4 oz. chicken w/small amount of cheese, 1 tsp. mayo, 10 small olives plus 6 crackers=9
s--yellow pepper=0
exercise--30 minutes on the treadmill=2 activity points
oops, almost forgot, extra coffee at church=1

I'm having some pretty intense sugar cravings, but I know that I'm going to ride them out. Tonight DD is making a sugar free jello
pudding pie; that will satisfy my cravings and be gentle as far as points go.

Doreen, it is helping me so much to know that you're somewhere going through this, too. Together we're strong!

Edit, again:

d--baked ziti, broccoli w/a little cheese sauce, and sugar free pudding pie. DD made the complete dinner tonight, so I happily enjoyed what she dished up. Probably my portion sizes were a little off, but compared to what I've been eating the last week--today was a total success! No grazing through boxes of chocolates plus I did half an hour of exercise! Tomorrow my sweets cravings should be even less; I'm going to make it another healthy living day. I WILL NOT, however, commit further ahead than that.

I lived in a healthy way today. I'll live in a healthy way tomorrow. That's all I have to say about that!

Also, I'll face the scale and change my siggie to reflect the painful truth. Accepting responsibility for my actions is the first step toward rectifying the situation, right?

Off to work on Christmas cards,
Erin

[DoeWDW]

OK, Erin! My exercise is finished! I'm counting on you, girlfriend - TRED-DEE! TRED-DEE! TRED-DEE!! Can ya hear me cheering you on??

I haven't taken meds or vitamins yet today. I'm off to eat a healthy breakfast and take those meds! Thanks for the vitamin reminder - I'm going to pack some up for work tomorrow, since I ran out of them at work and I usually take them with lunch.

Onward we go!! :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

Edit: 11:20 PM
Exercise finished, meds taken, healthy breakfast eaten - so far, so good!

I'm off to find a healthy nibble for lunch and then we have tickets for the noon showing of the new Lord of the Rings movie. If I'm full when I go and I take an emergency protein bar, I'll be just fine.

I hope your day is going just as well, Erin!! :sunny:

Edit: 4 PM
Great movie! I'm back now and checking in on you! Do you need some extra :sunny: :sunny: to banish that Munchie Monster??!! You can make it, Erin! We're in this together! :happy1:

Edit: 8 PM
Erin, it sounds like we're gonna make it!! YAY!!

Thanks for this challenge today! Without you, I'm afraid I would have continued my bad habits. Instead I have picked up my good habits again. I think I'll join you in making tomorrow another healthy day. One more day....after that, who knows?

:hug:
Doreen

[DoeWDW]

Hi, Erin!! :wave2: Your WISH-sis is up bright and early this AM! I've done my 20 minute Pilates workout already!

I'm feeling better - less bloated today. Could it be because I took better care of me yesterday? I hope you're feeling better too, Erin.

Here we go, for one day of healthy living. I was up at 5 AM and bedtime is around 9 PM - so I figure that's only 16 hours. We can make it 16 hours!

I'm working hard to center myself in the joy of the season. We have so much in our lives that brings us joy. Our healthy living is just one aspect of that. I hope the scale brings you some joy this morning, but if it doesn't, please don't worry. You've come so far already - you're a success no matter what number the scale shows.

Christmas can be about surprises. Do you like surprises?? :sunny:

Onward into our healthy day!
Doreen, your SOS WISH-sis

Edit: 8:15 AM
Dear WISH-sis Erin, I'm sending you an extra :hug: to help you out this morning. I saw the numbers in your siggie - I can imagine it was hard for you to see the scale this morning. :(

It's a temporary thing, WISH-sis! Don't worry about the silly numbers. If we live the healthy life, the scale will take care of itself AND we'll feel better, which is way more important that a silly number! ::yes::

Hang in there, girlfriend - it's gonna get better! :sunny:

P.S. I need to know.....do you like surprises?? :D

[lulu201]

:D Surprises?? I LOVE surprises!:p

Uhh, well, most of them that is. I wasn't jumping up and down when I got on the scale this a.m. and saw the surprise the scale had for me--up 4 pounds since Thursday! Could this be humanly possible????:p Today I'm going to be drinking that water like crazy and counting every point--no wonder I feel so enormous!

Still, there's no pity party going on over here (please, Doreen, please, no tough love!;) )--I ate way too much salt and sugar and I did it in a bold, careless way. I wasn't treating myself right at all! I'm happy, though, to be back on track, and while I'm tired (I was up 'til midnight finishing the laundry!!!), I'm feeling free of the spell of Lady Godiva and her other chocolate meanie friends (like Mr. Hershey Pot-of-Gold). Let me be specific, however: I'm feeling free at this MOMENT. I may not feel that way in an hour. . .and I certainly can't tell how I'll feel in a day. I'm living in the here and now. Nothing more.

A year ago, I could NEVER have gotten back on track three days before Christmas. I wouldn't have even WANTED to be back on track until after the new year. Redirecting myself back to healthy living--with the help of my WISH-sis--is a HUGE, HUGE step for me. I'm breaking free of eating cues and habits (can you tell I've been reading Dr. Phil again?:p ) that I've had most of my adult life and charting a new healthy course. Yay!:Pinkbounc

So, onward into the day.

Goals:
1. Vitamins--check.
2. One coffee--check. Any more will have to be decaf.
3. Water--one down, 7 more to go!
4. Exercise--half hour on the treadie, later in the day.
5. Points--this one will be tough, but I'm shooting for a target of 26 (including my activity points).

B--1/2 small bagel w/ lite cream cheese, 1 tsp. homemade blueberry jelly, coffee w/ cream=3.5

So, now I'm going to wrap some gifts and finish those Christmas cards! They're going out in the mail today NO MATTER WHAT!!!! I'll be going to work around 2:30, so I have some quiet time to myself to catch up.

Onward and DOWNWARD!!!
E.

Edit #1, 12:00 p.m.

L--1 cup baked ziti=6

I've been wrapping gifts and watching the "Bishop's Wife" (the original with Cary Grant and Loretta Young). It's my favorite holiday movie. I'm almost done with DD's stuff. My Christmas cards are all finished and on the way to the post office with DH.
I'm starting to feel my lack of sleep from last night and would REALLY like some chocolate, but I'm just going to go back to my wrapping and forget about it. I know, I'll go make some jello for later.

Edit #2, 2:00 p.m.

I finished DDs wrapping, but here's where things get a little dicey. It was 1 p.m. and I had a choice to make--exercise or. . .
take a nap. And you know what I picked? Yep, I'm not too proud-- I grabbed the zzzzzz's. Wait--before I look too lazy, hear me out! Today my RealAge message was about fighting holiday cravings and it said that a lot of people get tired and stressed and reach for chocolate and goodies and then they pick up the pounds! Rather than eat, the message said, try taking a nap and getting enough rest. So, I took the advice of the experts!

Since I didn't exercise, I had to lower my target point range to 24 (no activity points). I could always grab a couple from the bank, I guess, but I'm not going to. Just want to stick to 24. That seems fair, doesn't it?

I have to admit, I'm feeling a bit more energized. Maybe a walk would've done the same thing, but my tired body really appreciated the TLC, and now I'm ready to face the excited smiles of my students.

More later--

[DoeWDW]

You are doing well today, Erin! You're getting all this stuff done for the holiday and checking it off your list! I've never heard of "The Bishop's Wife" - is it a good movie??

No tough love from me today - just an extra :hug: with a little pixie dust :wizard: sprinkled around for good measure! :p

I almost forgot....here's some :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: to scare away that Munchie Monster!! He is NOT the kind of buddy you want hanging around!!

Edit: 9 PM
Did you make it, Erin?? Did you meet your goals today?? I made it but it certainly wasn't an easy day. I was ready to give in more than once but I stuck it out.

Thanks for the challenge! I'm not sure I'm ready to commit to anything for tomorrow - I'll wait and see how I feel in the morning.

Good night, WISH-sis! :wave2:

[littleducksmom]

i am really proud of you for getting back on track during the holidays........that says alot about your conviction this time to lose and be healthy.

wonder what you will be doing tomorrow for exercise......since i am sure you will be less tired to get it done.........

deb

[lulu201]

I've been surprised by my WISH-SIS!

What a wonderful, thoughtful WISH-SIS I have! She's made me smile and cry all at the same time!:D I'm kinda thinking she's really Santa Claus!:p

I came home to Doreen's fantastic surprise--a box filled with WISH goodies--and it made me feel so blessed! Blessed to have Doreen as a friend, blessed to have found the WISH boards, blessed to be trying to walk the walk! Today's road was tough, though, and filled with temptations--homemade deluxe chocolate covered pretzels and Belgian chocolates just to name a few. I gave most of it away, and the two small pieces of candy I did have I'll count in my point journal tomorrow.

As I said earlier, I felt tired most of the day. I had a little pick me up after my nap, but I felt like I just needed to be at home instead of at work. One of our teachers was telling me she felt just the same. Thank goodness we see some delightful children and families to help us find joy in our work. It was just like Doreen said though, this healthy living feels like so much work right now! I know from experience that things will eventually swing the other way and I'll feel on top of it again, but right now I'm just plodding along fighting my cravings and what people are offering me on a minute by minute basis!

So, that said, I'm with you, Doe-Doe. I can't think about committing to tomorrow yet. Of course, my Princess pantyhose and ultra-neato-cool pedometer may make me reconsider. . .:p
Maybe I won't commit to the whole day. Maybe I'll just see if I can make it 'til lunch. And then 'til supper. Baby steps, you know?

Well, I'm going to call it a day. Actually, I'm going to call it a Happy Day because of all the smiles my WISH-sis sent my way.

:D

[DoeWDW]

Yes, Erin, it was a long day yesterday....but we made it!! I'm so glad you enjoyed your surprise!!

Today??? Who knows! :rolleyes: I'm taking baby steps today - one decision at a time. I got up early and exercised, so there's one good choice!

Here's some :sunny: for a bright and beautiful day today! Let's make it a good one, one decision at a time! ::yes::

Your WISH-sis,
Doreen

[lulu201]

Ed12/23 OK, here's what I know about today:

1. I'm going to take my vitamins.
2. I'm going to drink a cup of coffee--but no more than that.
3. I'm going to figure out how my pedometer works and start wearing it; I'm also going to get my big behind on that treadmill!
No excuses today, Deb!
4. I'm going to make some more s.f. jello.
5. I'm going to write down everything I eat in my WW journal; oh, I'm going to figure out yesterday's points, too. (My chocolates were worth 4 points--I found it in the book.)
6. I'm going to have a low points, healthy breakfast. I can't see much beyond that at this point.

I shed 2 lbs. of my water weight, so that has inspired me somewhat.

I'm off to get DD out the door to school.
Erin

Edit #1:
1. Haven't taken the vitamins yet.
2. Drank my coffee--and a second at Starbucks with a friend.:rolleyes:
3. and 4. Haven't been out on the treadie yet, nor have I made the jello.
5. I wrote down yesterday's points and today's so far.
6. I had a healthy breakfast, 3.5 points.

I'm hanging in there. On to wrapping and walking--

[DoeWDW]

Two pounds banished!!! :jumping3: YAY! :jumping3:

OK, now I've REALLY gotta get ready for work - no more DIS until 8 AM!!

Make good decisions until then, OK??

Edit: 1 PM

So far, so good, Erin! Did you get that exercise time in? I hope so! I bet you had a healthy low-point lunch, too! Step by step....

Edit: 4 PM
I'm sending good thoughts your way, Erin! I think Tuesday is your long day, right? I hope you have something on hand to eat when you get in the door late this evening!

Edit: 9 PM
So how did you do today, WISH-sis?? I hope you feel like you did good enough, given the circumstances. We don't have to be perfect, just more healthy than unhealthy. :D

:hug:
Doreen

[Castillo Mom]

Woohoo, two pounds gone, they're outta here!:Pinkbounc Thanks again for asking about situation out here what with the earthquake. Unfortunately 2 people lost their lives. They worked in a building called "pre-33", built prior to 1933. Buildings built prior to that time were not retrofitted.

Erin, have a great day and keep up the work!:D

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :sunny:

It's a brand new day and it's Christmas Eve! Since you have such a musical family, I bet you are all involved in Christmas Eve services at church, aren't you? This year we're not going to DH's dad's house - DH wanted to go to Christmas Eve service instead - YAY!! Sometimes it's hard to get my family to attend church with me but tonight we'll all be together for a change. Hopefully they will all find the service very meaningful. Enough about me!

I wish you a sense of peace today, a feeling of joyful anticipation, a sense of being centered in God's love and grace.

:hug:
Doreen

[lulu201]

Wow! Today has been a whirlwind. As soon as we were up and dressed we headed to the Mall to search for the lost cell phone. After that we came home and cleaned and got a few last minute presents ready. I still have wrapping to do for family that we'll visit tomorrow, but it will have to wait until we're all in for the night. I head out for our early 5:30 service at 4:30 so that I can be there to rehearse before we begin. Our family dinner will be around 7:15 or so, then we head back to church as a family as DD sings at our church's 3rd service at 9:30. After the service we'll drive around and look at lights, then come home and get ready for bed. After DD is in bed I'll wrap some last minute things and then see if I can sleep! I ALWAYS have a hard time on Christmas Eve--I'm just like a kid!

I would like to say that I'm watching what I eat and being good to myself, but I'm not. I exercised yesterday, but I haven't even looked at the treadie today, and I had such good intentions! There are moments when I feel blue and ashamed of myself--particularly when I read of successes other people are having ("Why are they so strong and I'm not?")--but I'm trying to just accept where I'm at and move forward. I still care, I'm still in the game, but I'm not playing too well at the moment. I'll never give up, though.

So right now, I'm doing my best to center myself in all that is good and meaningful about this season. I'm going to shower and change and get to church and surround myself in the immense joy of the birth of Christ.

Merry Christmas!

[DoeWDW]

Dearest Erin, you are not weak. I've been with you practically from the beginning and I think you are incredibly strong. Enjoy the season and the important things - the joy of Christ's birth, God's immense and unchanging love for each of us, the time spent with family and dear friends.

We'll talk about healthy living on Friday morning, OK? Until then, here's a warm :hug: from me. Enjoy it all, guilt-free!! Consider it your present to yourself!

Your WISH-sis,
Doreen

[lulu201]

OK, it's a new day, and I'm ready to get back into the healthy living game. I'm moving onward without looking back. We had a nice family day yesterday and now I'm looking forward to getting back to some kind of a routine!:D

So, goals:

1. 24 points plus activity points. That's it.
2. I can't leave for the mall until I've exercised.
3. Vitamins--have had them already.
4. Water--first glass is down the hatch.
5. Steps--I'll be wearing my pedometer :D. I'm aiming for 10,000!
6. This is a toughie--one cup of coffee. That's it.
7. This is an extra toughie--no chocolate today. I've got to break the cycle!
8. I'm getting that cheat free bear, even if it's just for today.

Tomorrow I'm leaving for my mom's; I don't know how long I'll stay. DD and I are supposed to be there until Monday, but may come home on Sunday. I'll be missing DH!

Yep, I'm heading back to the mall to get some cards and gift wrap for next year! It's never too early to get ready, right?:p

Onward and definitely downward,
Erin

Edit:
1. Am staying in the point range. Hope to earn some extra with a long walk. Santa brought me a Weight Watchers point calculator; very cool and fun to use. Motivating!
2. OK, so I went to the mall without exercising--the sales were calling me! Now I'm home and dressed in some new exercise clothes I bought and ready to go!
3. :D
4. Still drinking.
5. I've walked over 6000 steps so far today. I LOVE MY PEDOMETER, DOREEN!!!!
6. :rolleyes: What can I say? I have a Starbucks gift card! At the mall, DD and I stopped in. She had water. I had a peppermint mocha w/skim milk and no whipped cream. A good choice and within the points!:D
7. No chocolate candy and it's already 2:30! :Pinkbounc
8. I'm going to wear that bear again if it's the last thing I do today!

I'm on my way to the treadie! Also checked the walking sight at about.com and pulled up the half-marathon training schedule. They send you a weekly training schedule and tips! You gotta love it!

I'm extremely tired, but feeling happy inside. It feels good to say "no" to all the things still here in the house. Yesterday DH and I made a chocolate raspberry sour cream cake to take to Christmas dinner (definitely in the stratosphere as far as points are concerned!) and brought a huge, beautiful cookie tray which also had homemade chocolate covered pretzels, chocolate-dipped biscotti, etc. I'm happy to report we left it all at my in-laws. . .we didn't bring home a single leftover! :Pinkbounc

I still haven't gotten on the scale for the challenge. I just couldn't face it. I'll deal with it eventually--maybe after I have some success.

Edit, 4:15 p.m.

Still drinking water. I walked 4.09 miles in 60.04 minutes. There were a few times there I wanted to stop, but kept plodding along. Now I'm glad I did. I earned 3 more points for myself!

Edit, 7:15 p.m.

We just finished dinner, and I'm done eating for the day. Total was 25 points (I have 2 AP left that I didn't use--it's just easier to stop eating than to figure out something to eat just to burn the points).

I'm filled with a sense of relief! I DID IT! I MADE IT THROUGH A CHEAT FREE DAY! I'M STILL IN THE GAME! I've been filled with frustration and self-doubt the last few days (OK, a week), but today I was on track.

I'm going to strategize for how I'm going to manage while I travel. I usually give myself a chance to loosen up when I'm visiting my mom, but I don't really want to--I've been loose enough!:p I'm going to try to steal a few minutes on the hotel treadmill on Saturday and Sunday both; exercise really helps to focus. I'm going to try to go toward soups, salads, fruits and veggies instead of chocolate peanut butter brownies. One planned indulgence: Chex snack mix from the hotel vending machine. DD and I usually make an evening raid after we go swimming. It's kind of like a tradition!

Total steps for 12/26: 15,201 :hyper: (Four mile walk+the mall+target!)

I'm going to turn over my clippie now. :D

I'll check in here tomorrow before I go.
E.

[DoeWDW]

Happy Day, Erin!! :sunny:

You go, girl!! You are back into the groove with your goals.

I can't wait to hear how many steps you take today - all that mall-walking will count as exercise!! You are a brave woman to head into the stores today!

I hope you have a lovely time with your mom! I know what you mean, though, about missing DH when you travel without him. I always feel like a piece of me is missing.... I'm not overly dependent on DH - I just really love the guy and enjoy being with him! :D

Glad to see you're back in the game, even if it's just for today! Take the advice you gave me and DRINK, DRINK, DRINK (water, that is.... :p )!

Edit: 7:45 PM
WOW! I'm so impressed that you are right back on the wagon! I'm also impressed with your 15,000+ steps!!!

Erin, you are inspiring me! Tomorrow will be a better day for me. If you can jump back on the wagon, then I can at least try to jump on tomorrow.

You should have great travelling weather. Have a safe and happy trip! :sunny:

[littleducksmom]

erin...........what a great day for you today!!!!! kewl that you got a new jogging suit.......amazing amt of walking today.

glad you are feeling more upbeat today..........have a safe trip to your mom's and have fun swimming with your daughter. remain vigilant while you are there..........you can do this!

deb

[Castillo Mom]

Wow, 15,000+ steps! Impressive! I'll be out shopping this weekend, but I don't think I'll walk that much. Have a great weekend Erin!:D

[lulu201]

Thanks, girls, for your encouragement. It means a lot! I'm hoping to walk the straight and narrow while I'm away, and knowing that you're pulling for me means a lot!::yes::

The scale is down two more of those water weight pounds. :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc Maybe I'll have my 20 lb. clippie back for the new year? Having that as a goal will help me count my points today.

I'm almost ready to leave, but I want to lay out my goals for the day:

1. Vitamins--downstairs ready to go, others packed.
2. Drink tons of water.
3. Eat as close to 24 points as possible. Record everything I eat.
I'll strive to be as honest as you are, Doe-Doe.
4. Walk on the treadmill at the hotel for at least 20 minutes. Swim with DD. I'm already wearing my pedometer!
5. Limit coffee after 12 p.m. Again, DRINK WATER!
6. Stick with my no chocolate rule for today; life is just easier that way.

OK, I'm off and out the door. Thanks again, girls. Deb, one of these days I'm going to find out how you got started in bfl. I went to their website--wow, that's some serious fitness stuff! Good for you!

[littleducksmom]

erin...something tells me you are gonna have that clippie back real soon. my brother got me started on body for life and i have had terrific results i think.........i am in better shape now than i have ever been in my life, even tho i have around 20 pounds to go........i posted my pics if you wanna see how much i have changed.......thanks for being interested.........oh and i have been voted poster girl for my local y by the regulars i workout with.......lol.....those silly people...... hope your time away is just wonderful....the pool sounds likes so much fun.

[DoeWDW]

:wave2: Hi Erin! Hope you had a great time at your Mom's!

Once again, to quote my tag "I've been a bit naughty while you were away." :p I'm trying to get back on track now.

Have a great day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

12/29 Well, Doe-Doe, I've been a little bit naughty, too, but only a LITTLE bit, which is quite an improvement for me when I'm away! I walked and walked--sometimes around town, sometimes at the mall, sometimes on the treadmill--and I really put the steps on the ole pedometer. I kept an honest record of what I ate, tried to drink a lot, and denied myself more than I indulged myself. Overall, I feel good about how things went. Tomorrow I'll get on the scale and see how I'm doing numbers-wise.

While I was gone, I got a new skirt--size 12, pencil straight.:p I tried on another one, in a 10--it zipped, but I'd need to lose another 5 lbs. for it to really work. Still, that was quite encouraging. I also bought a 3 Mile WATP video for something different to do this week; I may try it this afternoon. Also while I was away, I read over a lot of inspiring stuff--Dr. Phil and a book put out by Prevention magazine for women over 40. It all made me feel like I'm going in the right direction in my life.

While on the road driving I had some quiet time while DD dozed and I thought over my commitment to walk the 2005 half-marathon. I CAN'T WAIT--BRING IT ON! :Pinkbounc Even though I'm tired from all the holiday fun (DSIL and family are coming tomorrow and I haven't even unpacked yet!:eek: ), I'm so excited about this new goal and adventure in my life. By this time next year, I'm going to be an athlete!!:p

When I look over the path I've traveled in the last few months, I'm amazed at the differences in myself. And I see those differences happening in others on this board, too. The choices
and the changes are tough, but our growth is solid and signficant.

The nitty-gritty for today:

1. Some water, but not enough yet. Got to really push it.
2. Too much coffee. A large in the a.m. and a large in the p.m. I know it's bad, but what can I say?
3. Exercise--drove 4 hours home this morning and panicked about family visiting tomorrow. Did get Mickey out for a nice walk on this beautiful day. Will either do 3 miles on treadmill or WATP tape before dinner.
4. Points--Uhh, 4 left, but I'm going to do some exercise to earn some activity points.
5. Vitamins?

Gee, this looks pretty bad, but the truth is that it could be worse.

Oh, in case anybody's reading this? Does anybody want to try the 100 day cheat free challenge with me beginning January 1st?
Just putting it out there, girls. . .

Erin

[littleducksmom]

hi erin......glad you are back and ready to get on track again.......woohoo for the size 12 skirt!!!!!!

i am gonna do the half marathon too...but want to run it.

i may be willing to join ya on the cheat free thing..........i am on a team at the y that is competing in a fitness challenge for 13 weeks beginning next monday........so that's about 100 days or at least gets me close to 100.......;) ...........i dont wanna let my team mates down and this might help.

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin!

I'd like to join the cheat free challenge with ya'! I've had 28 cheat free days so far - cheat free from the start of SBD but I recognize that it could change at any point without some real incentive. I'm also joining a FIRM exercise video challenge on the lowcarbfriends board starting January 1 so maybe my goal of being in onederland by July 1 is a possibility.

Keep up the great work Erin. You are an inspiration to me!

[lulu201]

Wow!:Pinkbounc I loved the WATP tape! Has anyone ever tried the 4 mile tape? I'm thinking that'll be my next purchase. Not that I would EVER give up my treadie:p , but the tape was so much fun! I didn't have those round ball weights, but I did have some soft, flexible wrist weights that I bunched up and could hold. Very cool! :Pinkbounc

OK, so this is how the day turned out: we had a gift certificate for Bertucci's so out to dinner we went, and instead of my usual chicken piccata (which I love!), DH and I split a roasted veggie antipasta and I had a grilled chicken/portabello mushroom salad with a trace of balsamic vinaigrette (sp). Oh, and I had one small roll, but not the two homemade breadsticks that came with my meal. I felt I made healthy choices and felt great because of it!
I'm not exactly sure about points, but I'm convinced that I picked the lowest point items on the whole entire menu (except for that yummy little roll!).

Still feeling stressed about family visit tomorrow, but I'm letting my standards down considerably. I'm just not going to worry about it. I'll work out tomorrow a.m. and then do what I can. Tonight I'm going to have the sugar free jello I made and do some knitting.

Hey, Doreen, do you knit? Anybody else? I bought some very fun and fuzzy "cha-cha" yarn to make scarves for the teen girls I know. The first one is a belated Christmas gift. If it turns out, I'll get started on making some for next year!:rolleyes:

I'm going to nose around journals a bit, then head on downstairs to watch a chick flick or two with DD.

Till tomorrow--
Erin

[Castillo Mom]

That dinner you had at the restaurant sounds sooo good. I love antipasto but haven't had any for a while. I've been meaning to ask for the longest. What's WATP? I know it's an exercise tape but I don't know what type of routine it is? Can you please enlighten me? I hope you enjoy the evening watching chick flicks Erin.:D

[lulu201]

12/30 :rolleyes: Starting the day a little :( , but just a little. Scale showed a one pound increase, but considering I was away for a few days and ate out last night, I'm going to just say it's a pound of nasty water weight that is sure to drop off very soon. I'm NOT changing my siggie for it. Unless it's still there on Thursday when I do my final weigh-in for the new year, new you challenge. You know, I'm not going to make my challenge as I've basically fought to just maintain this month, but I'm OK with that. Hey, here's a thought: maybe that pound I gained is MUSCLE! Hee-hee! It's all you look at things. . .

OK, what am I going to do with this new day? First thing I did was devotionals, then I did some journal nosing, and now I have to get a plan going. Here it is:

1. Vitamins. While I'm at it, I'll set tomorrow's out, too.
2. Treadmill--just want to do a mile or two. The schedule has tomorrow as a three mile day, so I'm just going to rev up the metabolism a little and get some steps on the pedometer. Yesterday was 12, 899.
3. Clean up--DSIL and family should be here around 10 a.m.
4. Water--I'm going to start my 6-8 glasses as soon as I'm done here.
5. Coffee--OK, I really mean it today. One cup. In the morning. No more. I don't have green tea here in the house; when I'm out and about with SIL, I'll get some in case I need an afternoon pick-me-up. I'm know, I'm terribly caffeine addicted. ::yes::
6. Keep track of the points. No withdrawals from the bank. I'm staying at 24 plus activity points. Hey, there's another reason to exercise--I want to eat!:p

Tonight DH and I are going to see Lord of the Rings. No snacks at the theater--only water if I need a drink.

OK, I'm off and running. Have to go tell Lisa about the WATP tape.

Onward and downward,
Erin

Edit:

Geez, I almost forgot about the 100 Day Challenge. Thanks Deb and Lisa for giving some feedback on that. I just haven't made up my mind what I should do! Lisa, you're well on your way already--you've done a month cheat-free, you amazing girl! I'll let you know by the 1st!

[DoeWDW]

Erin, you are truly living the healthy life!! You have so many successes that it's hard to count them all - let's see:
- a size 12 skirt!! WOOHOO!! New clothes are FUN!
- a wonderful healthy dinner out with DH - good for you!! I think your choices were great - even with the roll!!
- chick flicks with DD - good mom-daughter bonding time! I'll have to try this with my DD!
- 12,800+ steps in a day!!
- etc. etc.!!!!

You should be so proud of you! In spite of the holiday stress, you are maintaining all those good healthy habits and seeing fabulous results! All I can say is WOW!!!!

That pound will be banished in no time! I'm up for a January cheat-free challenge. I'm not ready to commit to 100 days but I can commit to a month! What do you think?

Have fun with the family today! Remember, they are not coming to see how clean the house is, they're coming because they love you and your family and want to spend time with you! Hope all goes well!

[lulu201]

11:15 a.m. check-in:

1. Vitamins--:D .
2. Coffee--All done, I promise! :D
3. Exercise--2.10 on the treadie. Mostly walking, a few minutes of running. (Note to self: buy a supportive sports bra ASAP!:rolleyes: )
4. Water--almost done with first 48 oz.
5. Food--b: banana, smoothie w/1/2 cup raspberries, 1/2 cup OJ, and 1/2 cup nonfat, sugarfree yogurt, coffee w/cr.=5 pts. Plans for dinner out with DH: Subway!!!!:Pinkbounc

I'm up for a Cheat-Free January Challenge.:hyper: I KNOW THIS IS GOING TO BE VERY TOUGH for me, but with prayer and the help of my WISH-sis and WISH-friends, I've just got to go for it! I'm going to strategize for the rough days when I've got TOM and I'm back to work full-time. Oooh, thinking about it makes me shudder even now! At least I'm being realistic. . .

Thinking princess-size thoughts--
Erin

Continuing on:
L: one slice of toast w/1 tbsp. peanut butter, tangerine, mint ::yes:: skinny cow=7 Total so far is 12.
D plans: Turkey/bacon wrap at Subway w/baked lays=13--one point left over for diet mayo or some kind of sauce on sandwich. Total will be 26 for the day (24 Target points plus 2 Activity points).

Is this WW point thing a bit excessive or what? I swear it must work only for other obsessive/compulsive people like me. But you know what? I love it!! It helps me to know exactly where I stand at all times. I hope they paid the girl who thought of it (ok, or the guy who thought of it) a ton of money.

Finished my scarf. Off to a nap. :o zzzz

Edit #2:

I loved that wrap at Subway! I had lowfat mayo--I'm going to say 1.5 (will check it on website and adjust if necessary) and split chips with DH, so ended day with 25 points. One activity point will just go to waste unless I get a craving that can be satisfied with a one point item. I doubt it--it's almost 10 p.m., too late to eat more than jello. Gee, I love my jello!:p

We liked "The Lord of the Rings." I fell asleep when we rented the second one at home; tomorrow I'm going to have to get both 1 and 2 so that I feel complete.

[DoeWDW]

Erin, you're on your way to Princess size!! You're doing so well today! A nap sounds heavenly - sleep tight!

Enjoy that Subway wrap tonight! Drink your water, but be careful to time it right. That movie is well over 3 hours - no liquids for an hour ahead of time and take a potty break before you go into that theater. It's a great movie and worth the time, if you enjoyed the other two in the trilogy.

I was looking at running websites today and thinking about whether I want to walk or run the half marathon - decisions, decisions.....

Have a wonderful time with DH tonight! Wear something that makes you feel gorgeous!! ;)

[Castillo Mom]

Don't feel too bad about the coffee Erin, I had a cup myself this morning, vanilla nut and it was delicious. I find that with this cold weather, it really hits the spot in the morning. Good night!:D

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, Erin! :sunny:

I hope you had a great time last night.

I'm going to do another healthy-living day today - would you like to join me?? :happy1:

[lulu201]

Good morning! It's the last day of 2003! Amazing! I'm finishing this year 27 pounds lighter than I was last year and probably more fit than I've ever been. I'm in a good place today, and today is all I'm really responsible for!::yes:: I'm going to get the goals listed and get out into the day!

1. Vitamins--they're half taken as of this moment. :confused:
2. Water--drink like I did yesterday. I think I finished 72 oz. yesterday. That felt good.
3. Coffee--one, that's it. Last night at the movies I was tempted by a cappucino, but I walked right past it. :Pinkbounc
4. Exercise--walk/run three miles on the treadie (mostly brisk
walking:p ) and earn a couple of Activity Points to put towards today's eating.
5. Food--Target is supposed to be back to 22, but I think I'm going to keep it at 24 and see if I can still lose. If I walk then I can add some AP and bring it up to 26. Will go bowling, but won't cound that. I'm prepared to make a flex-point withdrawal for tonight.

Today I've got to pick up DD from a friend's house and get gifts ready for the family we're bowling with at 2 p.m. Have to make out the grocery list and go shopping. I think we'll have shrimp, veggies, and artichoke dip as the centerpieces of the holiday snacks. Foods that I can easily track the points. We're going to rent the other two LOTR movies, too. I have to try to piece the whole trilogy together in my head!

Here's a thought I had: January will be cheat free AND scale free!
I wonder if I could do it? I really feel that it's the change of behavior--the healthy living element--that's important and not the number on the scale. I think I just might put the scale away for one month and see if I can Walk the Walk without caring about the number? Hmmm, another thing to think about!::yes::

OK, I'm off to another cheat-free day.
Erin

[septbride2002]

Oh I don't know if I could go a whole month without checking my scale.....that seems pretty brave of you. I would love for January to be a cheat free month I think I will try that with you. :) Sounds like you are doing great 27 lbs is a lot when you think about it so you are doing fabulous!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

27 pounds lighter while ringing in the New Year - YAY!! :bounce:

Look how far you've come, Erin!

Just think what things will be like when we ring in 2005!

Enjoy your evening! Hope those points stretch far for you!!

We'll chat more in 2004!! I don't know about the scale thing - don't think I can make it a whole month. Maybe I could make once a week, but it would be TOUGH!!

We're cheat free for January and that starts in just a few hours. We can do it, Erin!!

I wish you peace, joy, hope and lots of love in 2004!

:hug:
Doreen, your WISH-sis

[lulu201]

It's a brand new year! Hooray!:Pinkbounc We rang in the new year totally zonked out--we were so tired we never saw midnight. Or 11. Maybe 10:30???:p

So, it's onward and downward in the new year. I'm determined to make January a Cheat Free Month, and going with me on the journey are Doreen, Amanda, Lisa (Zeraspride), and Deb. WE CAN DO THIS, GIRLS!

OK, the scale issue. . .yeah, I would really like to live a healthy life and not care what the numbers are. That's my ideal. Still, I don't think I can do it at this point. I'm going to try to make it until Monday, 1/5. I'll weigh in again then and try not to weigh in again until the next week. After that, who knows?

I thought about going back to Weight Watchers for the 7:30 a.m. meeting on Saturday mornings (my favorite time and my favorite leader), but I'm not sure I want to pay the bucks. Paying for my WDW Half Marathon registration is really all that I'd like to spend this month--I've got save my other cash for my actual trip! :Pinkbounc

All that talk about getting on the treadie yesterday was just that. I never made my 3 mile walk, so today it's got to be done. The new training schedule is emailed to me tomorrow, so I have to complete last week's TODAY. No excuses. I did BOWL three games yesterday--not exactly an aerobic workout--but at least I was up and moving. Yesterday's steps--6500 or so--were the lowest I had since I began wearing my nifty pedometer. :(

Food-wise, though, I had a great day yesterday and made it through New Year's Eve cheat-free. To me, that is nothing short of miraculous!:Pinkbounc Never in my life have I ever eaten as healthily as I did last night (on New Years)--never have I known that I WANT to stick to an eating plan that I feel good about so much that I didn't care about enjoying the junk. Honestly, though, we didn't have that much junk. I think that helped a lot. DH and I had steamed shrimp and broccoli while DD had pasta and broccoli. The snack component was low point spinach-artichoke dip with TLC crackers. A skinny cow was dessert. DD had nachos and cheese dip, but she never even wanted any--she'd had that huge sleepover the night before and was out by 9:30.

So, I'm looking the New Year and it's healthy living challenges and with God's help and the help of my WISH buddies, I'm ready to move onward and downward. I think 2004 will be my year to reach higher levels of health and fitness than I've ever had before.

Here I go!

Plans for 1/1/04

1. Vitamins.
2. Coffee--one cup, green tea this afternoon.
3. Low on the points. Yesterday I made a small withdrawal from the point bank to add a bit to New Year's. . .today I'm going to max out at 26 (target 24 plus 2 AP).
4. Drink the water. Yesterday I just couldn't get enough in. Today that bottle is going to be by my side all day.
5. Exercise: get out into the sunshine and walk Mickey, walk 3 miles on the treadmill. Tomorrow a.m. will be my 4 mile walk.

[DoeWDW]

You go girl!! We are going to be lookin' so buff by this time next year!!

Congrats on making it through last night without a cheat, but make sure you get that walk in today! ::yes::

Here we go, Erin! It feels like the sky's the limit, doesn't it?? :Pinkbounc

[lulu201]

Well, here how the day has gone so far:

1. Took the vitamins, which I HATE, by the way! I take alpha lipoic acid, coenzyme something or other, 2 vitamin Cs, calcium, fish oil, omega three oil, vitamin e, and a multivitamin. All the dosages are appropriate--nothing over the edge--but every morning I have to take them one by one or it makes me GAG! I know that they help me to feel and look better--I have a skin condition that the a. l. a. really helps, but STILL I hate 'em. There. Got that out of my system.
2. Coffee is all done and not even a thought for the rest of the day.
3. Exercise--walked Mickey the Westie and then did three miles (45.07 min.) on the treadmill. The treadmill was NOT something my body wanted to do today for some reason, though I don't know why. I woke up this morning feeling rather. . .strange. Kind of dizzy and yukky. I noticed it particularly whenever I bent over. Maybe it's low blood pressure? I ate pretty lightly until around 2 when I had a buffalo chicken salad (ooh, yum!) then FORCED myself to get out there and do the walk. I'm glad that I did--it sure put more steps on the pedometer (almost 10,000 for the day). Maybe I'm catching a bug or something?
4. Food--doing fine. I have 8.5 points left for dinner/evening snack. Plans are for just a little bit of ham, some veggies, and then jello tonight. Nothing big. Lots of water, though.

I'm off to check out the coolrunning.com site that everyone's talking about. . .

Erin

Edit: Have completed my points for the day; I think I'll have my point-free jello around 8:30 or so and then come back and turn over my clippie.

I've been reading the boards about the H. Marathon; the excitement being generated is awesome! :Pinkbounc I can't believe that I'm really going to be a part of something like this. My life is changing in so many incredible ways!

Oh, and by the way, I'm wearing my skinny jeans today.:p Just like I said many moons ago that I wanted to be doing on New Year's Day.

[DoeWDW]

Congrats on those SKINNY JEANS!!!

Erin, you've had a good day! Your treadie walking is amazing! You probably won't have to run ANY of the half marathon! Your time today was great and definitely race pace. You have a whole year to up your mileage. I was talking to DH about joining the local fitness center so I'd be able to walk on the treadie when the weather's bad - maybe I should just invest in a treadie of my own.

Here we go, Erin! I think 2004 is going to be a truly fabulous year for both of us!!:sunny::

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin!

It sounds like you are doing so well! I agree with you that 2004 is going to be our year. I wish I could join you guys for the marathon but our money is so tight right now. Plus all our DVC points are allocated for 2004/2005 and we can't afford a trip in 2005 so soon after our Thanksgiving 2004 trip. Sigh. I wish everyone the best who is able to participate and maybe I can join you guys in 2006.

I love the fact that there are several of us on the cheat free challenge. It is so inspiring to have others along for the same ride! All the best to you, be talking to you soon!

[septbride2002]

Okay girl since you are our team leader I've got a question for you. My goal is to ear at or under 30 grams of carbs a day. Today I ate 31 carbs but I also did very strenuous housework for about 3 hours (mopping, packing, moving...etc). Would you count this as a cheat free day?

~Amanda

[littleducksmom]

erin....congrats on them skinny jeans........i am gonna sign up for the half marathon too......but i really wanna run it. i think hubby may do it.......we will discuss it, as he says:) .....

cheat free day for me today too......just added the clippie to my siggie.....woohooo!!!!!!

i cant wait to hopefully meet you and doreen next jan.......2004 is my final journey to total fitness......and a summer in a bikini before i get to old.......

[littleducksmom]

erin....congrats on them skinny jeans........i am gonna sign up for the half marathon too......but i really wanna run it. i think hubby may do it.......we will discuss it, as he says:) .....

cheat free day for me today too......just added the clippie to my siggie.....woohooo!!!!!!

i cant wait to hopefully meet you and doreen next jan.......2004 is my final journey to total fitness......and a summer in a bikini before i get to old.......

amanda........i personally consider that if i know in my heart i didnt cheat.......then it will be what i consider a cheat free day........you know when it's a cheat, i am sure........so congrats on this great day that you had!!!!!!!........you cheat free girl, you!!!!!1

[lulu201]

1/2 Here I am on a new Friday morning. I just saw that my new half marathon training schedule for the week is in my IN box; I'm going to have to see what I'm supposed to do.

Goals for today are pretty simple.

1. Vitamins--same old.
2. Coffee--same old.
3. Exercise--gotta check on this.
4. Water--drink!
5. Food--I want to stay low in the points again today, 24-26. Tomorrow we're going to visit friends, so I anticipate a withdrawal from the point bank. We're eating dinner downtown tonight, though, so I'm going to have to be pretty frugal during the day to stay within the range. Oh, yeah, we're going into Phila. to see the percussion dance group, Stomp. DH is a percussionist and drum teacher, so this is a special treat for him.
Should be cool.

So, that's it. I'm feeling better today. I figured out what I felt like yesterday--like I was on the cruise ship! Weird inner ear thing, I guess.

OK, off and running--errr, walking. I'm leaving the running to Deb and Doreen!:hyper:

Onward and downward,
Erin

6:25 p.m. Home from our day in the city. . .it was fun! We went to the Italian Bistro for dinner, and I had a rosemary chicken salad. Nothing to write home about, but it was healthy and well within the point range. Actually, with the amount of exercise I did today--17, 929 steps so far :eek: --I still have an activity point left! :D Yeah, today's step total is bound to be an all time high. Yesterday I finished just over 10,000, but today included a five mile walk--with a little bit of a run. OK, a VERY little bit of a run.

I just made some sugar free jello; my day doesn't seem complete unless I have it in the evening. I hope it sets before bedtime.

I'm going to turn over my clippie and go finish and afghan I'm supposed to give as a gift tomorrow.

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Erin, it sounds like you have a wonderful day planned! I've heard so many good things about Stomp! - hope you all enjoy it!

Watch those points today - sounds like you've got lots going on today and tomorrow. Juggling those points might get tough! I know you'll do it, though, because you are sounding so strong and resolved to be healthy and cheat free!! Your positive attitude is great!

Can't believe you take all those pills every morning! They all sound like good supplements - stuff I should be taking too - but I could never take all those pills! Have you checked GNC or Vitamin World? Maybe they have some high-powered vitamins that include some of those extra things you're taking. I loved the GNC womens' vitamins but ran out. You had to take them twice a day, but they had a lot more stuff in them than Centrum's multivitamin.

So glad to hear you're feeling better today!

Here we go, my WISH-sis Erin! This is going to be a great year for both of us!! Onward and downward!

Have a wonderful day! :sunny:

[septbride2002]

Have a fabulous fabulous day! Looks like you have a lot going on today and tomorrow but I know you can do it. As far as leaving the running to Doe and Deb - why not jump on the bandwagon. I am going to be running myself! I ran about a year ago - got up to 2 miles a day and it took me about 15 to 20 minutes including warming up and cooling down - I LOVED IT! Now I am getting back on track - you can do it too!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Hi, Doreen and Amanda!:wave2: Thanks for stopping by. I did have a lot of point juggling to do today, but I have to tell you, I felt like you all were sitting at the table with me looking over my shoulder and keeping me on the right track! Yep, it's good to be in this with friends.

Hmmm, running the h. marathon. First honest reaction: yuk.:crazy2: Second, more thoughtful reaction: :scratchin maybe I could do it. It's just that I've never ever been comfortable running. Maybe it's because I've been too heavy. Maybe it's because I'm too big chested and it just doesn't feel right. But I'll give you this much: I'll keep an open mind. I hope to have the mileage in place by spring, then will work to decrease the time. Maybe I'll be so fit (and flat?:p ) that it'll just seem like my time has come to be a runner. Right now, I force myself to run every once in a while, but to run a whole mile--even just one--I can't imagine it.

Today I came out of the closet. I announced to my family what my current weight is and what my weight was when I started. It has been a big secret for a long time--DH never even knew--and today I felt that I didn't have to be a slave to that dumb number!
Just thought I'd share my bravery!:D

OK, I'm off to nose around the boards. I'll check in tomorrow--it's got to be another CHEAT FREE DAY!:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

[septbride2002]

Some people consider me to be big chested (they are only C's so I don't see what the big deal is ) but the secret to running is to have a good sports bra with lots of support. You cannot run in a regular bra.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

No, no, no, Amanda, honey. Cs are just normal. You have to be carrying around Double Ds like me to feel like running long distances should be left to children and small animals!:p

I did go shopping for a sports bra, by the way. (Hey, I don't have secrets here, do I?:rolleyes: ) and while I found one I like that gives me BETTER support, I'm not thinking it's good enough for 13.1 MILES!!!!

Maybe if I lose enough weight I'll end up with a C and can join you in the fast lane!:p

E.

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

Just checking in with you. I would love to run in the marathon but I don't think it's to be. It sounds like great fun for all those participating though.

I noticed your beautiful 5 day cheat free clippie, it looks good on you! I would comment on my triple D's, but the mere thought of getting those babies harnessed into a sports bra and running just boggles my mind so I'd definitely need to wait until I have lost quite a few more pounds! I can only dream of the day when I can say I'm a C again!

Good for you in being brave enough to reveal your numbers to your family. I haven't gotten that brave, yet. Have a good evening and keep up the good work!

[DoeWDW]

You guys have me laughing with all this bra talk... :laughing:

You're right, Erin - no secrets here! :p

We're supposed to have nice warm weather today - high of 60 degrees. I hope you get a chance to walk outside!! Next week is supposed to get really cold so get in some outside time while you can! :p

Here we go, Erin - off to another cheat free day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hee-hee, I love a good chuckle first thing in the morning.:p I'm glad you know what I'm talking about, Lisa!
:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

OK, now to serious stuff. I looked at the scale. :( I was driven to it! I had to find out how much I weighed for the Valentine's Day Challenge, didn't I? Didn't I??? So, confession aside, I'm happy I did! I regained my clippie! Good bye three pounds, YOU ARE OUT OF HERE!
:bounce: :Pinkbounc :bounce:

I'm going to weigh in on Monday, 1/5, again and this time check my measurements. THEN I'M GOING TO WAIT UNTIL 1/12--I promise! Really!

Today's going to be another challenging eating day because we're going to friends and to Candy Lane at Hershey Park. It's my exercise rest/restore day, so I'm not going to be able to get a whole bunch of AP to hold me over. . .I think I'll just walk the dog for some light exercise. . .so I'm going to have to really watch what I eat.

Here's the plan:
1. Vitamins. Got to check out those GNC vitamins, Doreen. The mere thought of taking my vitamins is getting to me!
2. Coffee. One.
3. Exercise. Just a bit of walking. Take Mickey for a nice leisurely stroll.
4. Food. 24 points is the target, MAYBE one AP gives me 25. I have 21 points left in the bank; might have to take out a small withdrawal. I'm OK with that; that's what the points are there for.
5. Water. I'll take my water bottle with me when I travel today. May have to stop a few times for a potty break, though!

Onward and downward!
Erin

[septbride2002]

"C's are normal!" I'llhave to tell my DH that something about me is normal - he will never believe it - he thinks I'm nuts.

Anyway wanted to wish you good luck today since you said you might be challenged. I have faith in you and I know you can do it!

~Amanda

[Castillo Mom]

Hi Erin! I'm here at work and I'm trying to get around to everyone's journals for a quick peek and to say happy new year. Have a great weekend!:D

[littleducksmom]

woohoo!!!!!!!!on taking off them three pounds and getting your clippie back.........

just a note on the bra thing........i am a dd and i wear a minimizer type bra with underwire and good adjustable straps.......not a sports bra.i havent found one i like yet!......i know several women who wear 2 bras to get maximum support......you might wanna try that.

[DoeWDW]

Erin, WOW!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc 3 pounds gone!!

You're now officially princess: size again!!!!

Welcome back, your majesty, Princess Lulu!!

I will forgive your early scale encounter, since you had such good news to report! :teeth: I hope your family was supportive when you disclosed your weight. They should be cheering your great success just like we are - you are so much lighter now!!!

I hope you enjoyed Stomp! yesterday. I also hope you enjoyed your visit with friends. Hard to believe you were so close to me - we live only 15-20 minutes from Hershey! It was a beautiful warm day for being outside and enjoying Christmas Candy Lane. You are very brave, though, for going to Chocolate Town USA when you're trying to be cheat free!! :eek: The whole place SMELLS like chocolate, for gosh sakes!!

Anyway, I'm glad things are going well for you. As always, you're in my thoughts and prayers daily.

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Yes, Doreen, I'm wearing a smiling princess: face today! Tomorrow DD and I sing in a trio at church and I'm going to wear my princess: -sized stockings. :p Sometimes the little things in life are very big and special!

I came out of the hidden weight closet yesterday when I thought I was a few pounds heavier, so today I made a big announcement to DH AGAIN to announce that I'd lost some pounds! :Pinkbounc He is so loving and supportive and shares my joy.:lovestruc I feel so blessed to have a man in my life who has supported this huge lifestyle change of mine. The fact that he's encouraging the half-marathon and my solo trip to WDW is so sweet and wonderful.

I also feel blessed to have such wonderful WISH friends! Deb, Amanda, Lisa Castillo Mom, Lisa ZerasPride, Beth, and of course, my dear WISH-sis, Doreen. . .you all mean the world to me. You've helped me so much in the day-to-dayness of things. I feel strong knowing that we're in this together.

I'm excited now that I got weighed because I entered the Valentine's Day challenge and said that I wanted to lose 12 pounds. Well, at 170, if I lose 12 pounds, I'll be at my goal weight!! The thought of it--being at the weight I wanted to set as my WW goal in six weeks--is too amazing for words!!! Can it actually happen???? I tell you, I'M READY TO GO FOR IT! ::yes::

One thing I don't want to do, though, is constantly obsess about that number, so I'm just going to concentrate on walking the walk: doing the exercise, counting the points, and just accepting whatever the scale says. My body will release the weight at the right time if I just go along doing what I'm supposed to do.

As it turned out, we didn't get to Christmas Candy Lane--my friend's friend told her it was closed this weekend. That was OK; I didn't need the extra temptations, and it was great just to hang out with my friend and her family. Also, her DH cooked an amazing dinner and I emptied out all the points left in the ole point bank! Thank goodness it's Saturday; only one day to go on strict target and activity points before the bank "opens" again on Monday.

Normally I would've returned from a nice dinner like that--one that challenged my point reserves--and said to myself, "oh, heck, I might as well have what's left of those Godiva chocolates and some popcorn, and a few chips while I'm at it. I've used up all the points anyway. Tomorrow I'll just start again." To do that, though, would be a CHEATing kind of thing to do--and I just couldn't do that. Lose my clippie? Cheat on my other strong friends? NEVER!:D So, I'm remaining BINGE FREE, turning over my clippie, and calling it a day.

Erin--aka princess: Lulu :p

PS Doreen, we were in Jonestown, off of 72N. I can drive that easily! How much longer before I get to you?

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, princess: Lulu!! (I just LOVE using that icon again!)

I'm glad you had a great time out my way! Did you take the turnpike? I'm about 20 minutes off the Harrisburg East exit. I'll send you more detailed directions via PM. Good for you for enjoying that fabulous dinner! You've been so good with your points all week that you had banked points to use - now THAT'S healthy living!! ::yes::

Congrats on no binging either! Our attitudes toward food have really changed, haven't they? I still find it amazing at times.

On to another cheat free day, Erin! I'm sure you'll be just radiant at church. Best wishes for you and your daughter on your selection at church. How exciting to sing with her!!

:sunny:
Doreen

[lulu201]

Oh, I visited other peoples' journals and forgot to go to my own!
We have to be at church at 7:55, so I'm just going to be quick about this.

1. Vitamins--done and out of the way.
2. Water--one glass down, seven more to go.
3. Coffee--one at home, one at church. :D
4. Exercise--schedule says it's the three mile day.
5. Food--24 points plus activity. Uhh, nothing left in the bank to draw from.:rolleyes:

Off and briskly walking--:p
princess: L. :p

Edit:

I need to drink some more water--I've only had that one glass so far today at it's going on three o'clock! Still haven't walked, but I'll do that soon.

B--coffee w/creamer, toast w/tbsp. pbutter=5
L--salad w/lovely wheat roll at Saladworks=15?
D--DH and I plan to have roasted veggies for dinner 'cause that's what sounds good to us today!

Yes, Amanda, I'm hoping for another two points to use after I walk. That's how I know I won't skip it: I need those points!

More later. . .

Edit again:

D--DH and I did have a bunch of roasted veggies--I probably had a couple of cups or MORE!!They were lightly seasoned with olive oil and so nice, but I've started to think. . .with all the fiber that I've had today, I bet I'm going to weigh in like a big farmer tomorrow! I'm drinking the water like crazy!:p

I walked the three miles on the treadie in 42 minutes. Almost killed myself :p but I did it. I know that treadie walking is not like REALLY walking--do you know what I mean?--so as soon as the weather's nice again I'm going to have to get out there and walk on the pavement.

I'm a little :( tonight because I have to go back to work tomorrow. Don't get me wrong--I'm glad that I had all this time off and I'm going back rested and refreshed AND I love my work, but I've got that queasy kind of nervous feeling (I call it Sunday Night Stomach). Plus when I back to work and working long hours, I miss my little home. :( And my little puppy. :(
Sniff, sniff.

OK, over that. Tomorrow I've got to get myself onto a new workout schedule so that I'm walking M-W-F-S. No rest day for me. Might go a little slower, though. . .

Onward and downward,
E.

[septbride2002]

Hey Chica! I remember those days where you had to stay on the target point - tough days so I am sending you lots and lots of (((YOU CAN DO IT VIBES))) to get you through the day. Although with a 3 mile walk you should have at least 2 activity points right?

~Amanda

[Castillo Mom]

I really admire you for exercising on a Sunday, and three miles of walking to boot! Sundays around my house are pretty lazy. Yes, I'll be weighing tomorrow. Best wishes to you on the scale tomorrow!:D

[lulu201]

Geez, all I can say is "doggone it!" I got on the scale this morning and I was up a pound and a fraction, so I rounded it up to two stinking pounds. What's up with that?????:confused:
This is the biggest thing I hate about weighing in less frequently--now I have to wait until next Monday to see if it came off and, in the meantime, I have to muster up energy not to be bothered by it. Which I am!:mad:

I know it's all salt, water retention, extra fiber and bulk from my eating the last two days--maybe a little muscle thrown in from walking 5 on Fri. morning and 3 yesterday, but still I'm a little :( .

Still, I did manage to keep the clippie and I know that I've followed the plan to the best of my ability. I can't do more than that. The number is just a number. (I'll keep repeating that silently here for a few minutes. . .)

So, it's a new day. Feeling a little blue:( now about DD going back to school, heading back to work myself, and now this darn scale thing. It's raining. Man, I better snap out of this pretty quickly and got on with things.

1. Vitamins--will do.
2. Water--one glass down.
3. Exercise--3 mile something. Walk on treadie or WATP. Probably WATP for something different.
4. Food--23 plus AP. Better make jello. Had major chocolate craving last night. I'm getting closer to the d-zone.
5. Coffee--I'm going down to make and enjoy my cup of hazelnut.
6. Count my blessings. :D That'll cast some :sunny: into the day.

Here I go. Onward. . .
Erin

Edit 11:10 or close to it:

1. Vitamins are over with for today.
2. Water, well I'd estimate that I've had about 48 oz. so far today.
3. Just not getting to the exercise yet, but will soon I hope.
4. Made the jello and have my plans for lunch.
B--oatmeal w/ 1/3 cup milk=4, plus coffee w/cream=5 total
L--buffalo chicken salad=10

other plans:
snack late in the day will be apple and cheesestick= 3 or 4
D around 8:30 or so--soup and crackers=6, jello for dessert=0

5. Done with the coffee. Will have green mint tea, my favorite :p ,in a beautiful new cup/teapot one of my student's gave me.
6. Counting those blessings. My WISH-sis and other WISH friends are high on the list.:D Also, about the scale thing--if I hadn't given in and weighed myself on Friday, I would've just been content with the one pound overall loss!!! You live and learn. More later. . .

[DoeWDW]

Here's some extra :sunny: , some extra :wizard: , and an extra :hug: for you! I know what you mean about those weekly weigh-ins. We set up our expectations for a whole week and then when the scale says something different, it can really affect our mood. Maybe your instincts were right - maybe a monthly weigh-in is better for you?

I know you've been doing great with your points and food. I also know that you've been exercising faithfully. The scale issue notwithstanding, how are you feeling? Are you feeling stronger, leaner, healthier?? Are your clothes fitting better?

Hang in there, Erin. It will get better, I promise! We have lots to celebrate and that scale does NOT tell the whole story. ::yes::

Good luck with getting back into your regular routine. My routine tends to be both a blessing and a curse. I do better with my food and my water drinking when I'm on my regular routine. Hopefully you can savor the blessings of your routine as well.

So princess: Lulu, we're off to another cheat free day. I refuse to stop using that cute princess: icon, because I know that extra 2 pounds is water weight and will be leaving any moment now.

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe, your WISH-sis

[lulu201]

Thank you, Doreen, my special WISH-sis. I needed that. :D ::yes::

[littleducksmom]

erin..........ya know maybe even every 2 weeks would be better since you really dont have that much wt to lose........are you measuring inches? are you clothes fitting just as well or a little looser? you are eating wonderfully and you are exercising so well......here's the question to ask yourself.......

do want to be the person you used to be, or do you want to be the person you are becoming?

i always think of this on days i dont wanna exercise......which is rare, but it does happen......essentially i have been on a plateau since mid sept.......but when i think about where i was, even mentally.......there is no way i am gonna go back there!!!!!!......you are better, even with that measely insignificant 1 pound, than you were when you began, right?......i know you are!!!!!!!!!

[septbride2002]

Lulu I know you are going to have a fabulous day today! I just know it! Don't worry about the pounds because they are probably water or muscle gain from working out.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:cool1: :cool1: Look at the two cool guys walkin' the healthy walk!! They look so happy, don't they?? We're gonna do the same thing today, princess: Lulu!! We're gonna strut our way through the day with smiles! :sunny:

I hope your evening went as planned. Here we go, into another busy day. It's a long one for you, so don't forget to take some healthy snacks to get you through - gotta keep that energy up!

I have to find out how you made those roasted veggies on Sunday evening. They sound good!

Here's some extra sun :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: to warm you up, even though temperatures around here are headed down. We'll just have to keep moving to stay warm! :hyper: That means more activity points for you!! ::yes::

Have a wonderful day, WISH-sis Erin!!

:hug:

[lulu201]

Hi, everyone! I thought I'd head straight to bed, but it just didn't feel right not to stop in at my journal again. First of all, Doe-Doe, Amanda, and Deb--thank you for your words of encouragement yesterday. They meant so much to me; I almost had to wipe a way a tear. . .seriously, they touched my heart, and helped me to turn my day around.

I'm back to work now and when I'm working my hours are long and late. I sometimes have some a.m. time, but now I'm supposed to be writing curricula and that has to be done in my "me" time. Hopefully I'll be done with that this month. In the meantime, I have to squeeze journaling in whenever I can.

The last two days have been good. I've stayed on program and counted my points, have taken the vitamins, have limited my coffee, and have tried to drink a lot of water. My pedometer on Monday--even with a mile on the treadie--was a measly 6500+. Today, a day that I taught several early childhood music classes was 13514 and I didn't even get near the treadie!!!!! Hey, no wonder I'm ready for bed!

I was telling Doreen how somebody asked my how my diet was going and I told her that I don't feel like it's a diet anymore. . .it's how I choose to try to live. I like the "person I am becoming" (to paraphrase Deb) and even though it's hard sometimes, I don't want to go back to where I was. And like Doreen said in her journal about the cheat free challenge helping her to be strong--I feel the same way! We're all in this together and knowing that helps me a lot.

So, I may not be able to be on the boards as much as I'd like, but I do want to get to everyone's journals once or twice a week. Please know that it doesn't mean that I'm not thinking of you all if
I don't stop in--I'm just trying to do what I have to do as a mom, wife, and teacher.

:grouphug:
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :sunny:

We're going to have another wonderful, cheat free, healthy living day! ::yes:: I think this is getting easier for me - I hope it's getting easier for you too!

Take legal snacks with you and keep that Trident handy! I hope your day goes well! :sunny:

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

I'm here ready to start a new day. It's cold as heck outside, but hey, it's winter, isn't it?::yes::

Plan for the day:

1. Vitamins--been there, done it.
2. Coffee--had it, finished it.
3. Exercise--uh, oh, this is going to be hard to get into the schedule. DH and I talked all through the time I had set aside to workout. I'm going to rack my brain for an alternate plan.
4. Food--will try to stay with 24-27 points.
5. Water--it's tough to drink all that I need to during my busy days. Today I work from 9:30-8:00. I'll try to drink a glass after every class. So far today I've had about 8 oz., I think.

I wasn't even tempted today by the scale. Maybe I'm breaking my habit?:p

I've got my trident in my purse and good wishes from my WISH-sis; I'm off to face the world!

princess: Lulu

I think I'll wear my skinny jeans to work today.:p

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

Hope you don't mind if I borrow your wonderful words of wisdom! The next time someone asks me how my diet is going I'm going to paraphrase what you said (that Deb said): I don't consider this a diet anymore, it's how I choose to live. I love it!!

Your schedule sounds pretty hectic. Do you mind if I ask what grade you teach? I plan to start school next semester and want to become an elementary school teacher (K-3). It seems so rewarding but I take it you teach secondary school or even at a college level. I know you are busy so no hurry. I would just like to know what being a teacher is like first hand. Thanks!

Please take care of yourself, take your vitamins, keep your gum handy (I'm chewing away on my Trident now) and remember we are all here trying to be cheat free with you!

[DoeWDW]

I hope you enjoyed wearing those skinny jeans today! :D I know I've been feeling great in mine lately!! All this walking is working for me!! Imagine what we'll look like in a month, by summer, next January on our trip!!! :jumping3:

WISH-sis, I really appreciate having you walk with me on this journey. I was thinking of you while I was walking on the treadie today! :wave: I was also thinking of you when I decided not to cheat today - really was craving something but passed it by.

Sleep tight, princess: Lulu! I wish you happy dreams and restful sleep.

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Just a quick post to start the day: 10 Cheat Free Days. Wow!

Thanks, Doreen and Lisa, for stopping by. I'll try to explain what I do, Lisa, later today when I go to visit you.

The plan remains pretty much the same.

1. Vitamins
2. Limit coffee
3. Exercise. I didn't get on the treadie yesterday. If I miss my time, I'm done for--I just can't reschedule it on a Wednesday. Next time DH and I will have to talk WHILE I walk!
4. Eat right. I've been drawing 5 or 6 points from the bank the last couple of days--even though I haven't logged AP I know that my body needs these points. I walked 13,226 steps yesterday just from my work activity; 24 points just isn't enough. I don't know how to change steps into AP, so I just draw from the bank. It's working for now. Today I'll do the treadie so I can earn AP; I don't anticipate withdrawing anything from the bank today.
5. Drink. Striving to drink after every class worked yesterday. I'm going to keep that up today.

I'm off to pack lunch and make breakfast for DD and then get her to school.

Just a quick note. I've really been able to feel the benefits of the walking and healthy eating this week. I'm teaching very full days but have enough energy to make it through the day. A year ago I was visiting drs. and having x-rays to determine the source of a lot of hip, knee, and back pain. Why didn't someone tell me I was just plain too fat to be doing the work I was doing????
:confused:

Till later, gang,
Erin

Edit:
Had some water and a banana and my coffee. 3 points for breakfast. I'm going to pick up a bag of salad today. I'm in a salad mood.

Doreen, you asked about those roasted veggies. DH took a whole assortment of things--portabello mushrooms, yellow summer squash, brussel sprouts, red peppers, onion chunks, carrots (anything and everything) and sliced them up and tossed
them in a bowl with about 1/4 olive oil and a little salt. Then he set them out on two foil-covered cookie sheets and put them in the oven at 450 for about 45 minutes. They were delish--especially the brussel sprouts, squash, and mushrooms. If we'd had a steak along with them. . .YOWZA!

[DoeWDW]

Erin, I found this information about calculating activity points:

----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Activity Points
In addition to eating your Target points each day, you may choose to earn and optionally eat Activity points. Activity points earned must be used on the same day they are earned, if they are used at all. Activity points are fully described on, and can be calculated with, your POINTSbooster. If you don’t have it handy, you can use a calculator and the following formulas.
Activity points for light intensity = [your weight] x [minutes] x 0.00023
Activity points for moderate intensity = [your weight] x [minutes] x 0.00033
Activity points for high intensity = [your weight] x [minutes] x 0.00081
Light intensity is described as being able to talk and sing, with regular breathing and no sweating. Examples of light intensity activities are leisurely walking or biking. Moderate intensity is described as being able to talk but not sing, with deep breathing and sweating after 10 minutes. Examples of moderate intensity activities are brisk walking or brisk biking. High intensity is described as being able to only talk briefly, with rapid deep breathing and sweating after 3-5 minutes. Examples of high intensity activities are running or competitive cycling.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I'm thinking you could use this to calculate some extra activity points for those classes you're teaching that involve movement for you. If you're getting 13,000+ steps in a day, you are DEFINITELY earning activity points. Hope this helps....

On the days when you are getting so many steps in, I'm not sure you need to be on the treadie.... If you're earning the same number of activity points as your usual treadie walk, then I'd call that your exercise for the day. Maybe you should save the treadie for those days when you aren't so active??

I'm so glad that you've seen such a big change in a year! :jumping3: Chronic pain can really put a damper on your zest for life! Hopefully all this healthy living will help you to feel better and better!

Onward, WISH-sis, to another cheat free, healthy living day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Doreen, thanks so much for that info. I'm going to really think this all through--hmmm, Food for Thought. Now that's a healthy living concept for you!

[DoeWDW]

Hey, WISH-sis, I'm thinking of you and sending a :hug: your way. Thanks for your PMs today - they really helped. Don't know what I'd do without you! ::yes::

I hope your D-Zone Day went well.

Tomorrow we'll do it again - more healthy living, more being good to ourselves, more yummy food that's actually GOOD for us, more moving - we are truly taking good care of this temple God has so graciously given us.

Sweet dreams, princess: Lulu
princess: Doe-Doe

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin!! :sunny:

There's a beautiful bright sun outside today - hope there's a beautiful bright sun shining in your heart as well! :sunny:

Have a great healthy day, girlfriend! :happy1: I'm with you in spirit, walking the walk right beside you.

:hug:
Doreen

[littleducksmom]

erin.......you are doing great..........i am happy that you are feeling better in general.........it is amazing how increasing our activity can give us more energy........and a better outlook on life.

[lulu201]

OK, the day in review:

The carb cravings are coming. Maybe starting the day with oatmeal isn't the best idea. I made it through cheat-free, though, and am glad about that. I tried to do all the good things, but was so busy I didn't have a chance to drink all my water. I'll try to guzzle some tonight.

Tomorrow I'm going back to WW. Almost 12 years ago I was in WW for the first time and was really successful (of course I started that weight loss program at 175--25 pounds lighter than I started this one!!!); I came within 1/2 a pound of goal. Then the holidays came and that combined with the recent death of my dad and being a mom of a two year old, I just couldn't get myself back on track. And so it all began. Many attempts and hundreds of dollars have been spent at WW since. I've never ever made a complete lifestyle change and was never able to keep it off.

Things are different now.

Tomorrow I'm going back to finish what I started. It's my understanding that to achieve lifetime status you have to lose a minimum of 10 lbs. at WW (maybe I'm wrong, but I'll let you know the facts tomorrow) and then maintain that loss for 6 weeks. I need to learn how to maintain and sustain a loss and I want my favorite leader of all-time to help me. I've never seen a leader with such care and compassion for people. Being a WW leader is truly her life's work and purpose, and she has brought hundreds of people through to goal. I hope to reach my WW goal weight, 158, and then continue to lose until my body tells me I'm at the right weight to walk the half marathon. My insurance company will reimburse part of the cost, so I figured I might as well have some closure on this part of my life. I want the feeling of success that I've experienced these last few months to include my WW history!

I know some folks have not had the best experiences with WW leaders and their knowledge of and acceptance of different plans, but I think it really varies leader to leader. Some leaders are stuck on the 1970's plan, but many are right there with WW International's philosophy of finding the right eating plan for you. All their current literature encourages people to analyze how they feel if they eat low carb or how they feel if they eat high carb/low fat, and then to make the best choice for them. I just think some leaders want to hold on the the past and they convey their opinions to their membership. Who then go into the world insulting dear WISHers!

OK, off my soapbox. Going back is a big deal for me, but I'm not sure if I want to celebrate or not. I do know, though, that it's something I have to do for myself.

Tomorrow I'll get weighed there, but I'm not going to get weighed before I go. I haven't decided if from now on I'll make Saturday my weigh in day or not, but I might. It just seems to make sense to do it once a week and not again on Monday. I know that being fully clothed I probably won't show a loss this week here on the WISH (since I usually wear just my birthday suit when I weigh in here at home), but I can accept that. I think. I'm more than that number. I think. Saturday is also my long walk day, so I'm going to create a new healthy weekend schedule. WW at 7:30 and then walk when I get home--or the afternoon if I can't walk earlier. Sunday I'll go to church and then COLLAPSE! The long walks are getting longer rather quickly. Tomorrow I'm doing a six miler!!!!!! Sunday is really going to have to be my day of rest now!

So, that's the plan. Overall it was a good week. I received many compliments from people who have noticed the loss, and I feel good in my body right now. This next week is going to be tough--it's the D-Zone--but I'm ready to forge ahead. I've learned so much about myself and am taking such better care of myself, I fell like I can handle it.

Oh, ladies of the WISH, thank you for all the support and friendship you so generously give to me and to others on the boards. We are quite a team together, aren't we?

And Doreen, I feel blessed beyond measure to have you as my WISH sister. Thank you for talking to me today and for keeping me in your prayers. You're in mine, too, Sis.

That's all for today. I think it's enough!:p

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, princess: Lulu! :sunny:

Best wishes on the start of the completion of your WW journey (does that make sensee??)! I'll be here cheering you on, girlfriend! We both know you can do it - you've been walking the walk for a while now so you know this road well. Andi sounds like a real gem!! :sunny:

Also, best wishes on your long walk today! Again, though, you know this road - we walked 6.2 miles in Doylestown! You are gonna be so ready for our half-marathon next January - can't wait to see that WISHCon clipart in your siggie!! I'm waiting until I officially register on Monday - once I know I'm in, then I'll put the clipart up.

Have a sunny :sunny: day, WISH-sis!

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe

[septbride2002]

Girl YOU ROCK! Six miles today! Way to go! Sounds like you are doing great to me. I think the reason I failed at WW is because I never did attend meetings and it was hard to find support. I've done the Protein Plan by myself before and had great success so I seem to better on it. You are going to do so great today I just know it! I'm in a D-zone too today so I'm just going to think of you whenever I reach for something I shouldn't have.

~Amanda

[lulu201]

Just home from WW. Lots to think about.:scratchin It was so different from when I was last there. . .it's hard for me to articulate.

I'm a different person now--not the same as when I tried WW before (the last time was two years ago, I lost 26 pounds and gained back 25). At this moment I have a belief in myself, the strength God gives me, and a strong support network. I'm entering the WW door with some success at this game, so I viewed the weigh-in and meeting experience with different eyes.
Very different from what I thought I'd feel last night. I saw many of the same folks that were there before--kind, funny, sweet people--many of them looking exactly the same, talking about the same issues (point free vegetable soup :D ). I watched the leader use a sometimes not-so-subtle sales approach re: nine week commitment plans. She worked hard to get me to buy the plan and when I said that I hope to be at goal before then, she kind of looked at me as if she's heard that a million times. Her words, "lose eight pounds and then we'll talk about goal. The plan's the best deal, but do what you want to do." Hmmmm. I figured it out, and if accomplish what I'm setting out to do--it's not the best deal.

I know that she experiences many people each week who aren't
feeling a commitment to a healthy lifestyle (people who aren't going to put their big behinds on the treadie and walk 6 miles!:p People who aren't in the Cheat Free January Challenge, lol), but I felt like what I've done on my own doesn't really "count" and shouldn't be discussed. The WW leaders want people in the GROUP, paying their money each week. I understand why they have to have that goal and I never found it to be so strangely offensive until I'd been over here on the other side, successful in a different venue. There are many taboo subjects, I realize now, including online WW, other online WW support groups (Dottie's Weight Loss Zone, for example), and of course, the whole Atkins issue.

I guess when I was at meetings before, the WW community wasn't quite as worried about Atkins taking it's share of the weight loss business. I was taken aback by one of the publications I received in my packet: "The Truth about Carbs," It discussed "fad" high protein diets and the dangers to your health and the myths about carbs, fats, etc. Knowing how I live much happier without pretzels, chips, popcorn, sliced white bread, and of all the people who are living in a healthier way on Atkins, I was disappointed by this. It felt like a propoganda leaflet to me. No wonder Lisa Castillomom got such an ear full in that email from her WW "friend." It IS in the literature they're handing out now.
They do, however, have a "high protein" option in their new Fast Track Program. (Huh?) They're less open minded than I thought. I think they really do feel threatened in some ways.

I also was struck at how superficial the conversation was. Friendly and fun, but simplistic. I guess because I've had the benefit of this journal and the WISH, I know how the weight loss experience is so much MORE than points, exercise, and water. I guess that the internal side of it is too much for some people--we're all in different places--and I know that there is only so much the leader can talk about in 30 minutes (it's an express meeting). . .like I said, I'm viewing things differently now.

OK, all that aside, I was glad I went, if only to finish what I started. It was what it was. Other than her push to pre-pay, the leader was friendly and supportive. The members as a group are funny--there are always lots of laughs at this meeting. I can do this; I HAVE to do this, if for no other reason than to prove to myself I can. There are so many times that I've failed at this (probably 6?) and felt miserable--I just can't have it hanging over me. Also, the bottom line is that I think the program works for me and I want to know how to make this work for my LIFE. I want to learn how to KEEP IT OFF!

So, Saturday is my new weigh-in day, but I'm going to keep Monday as a check point. I think I need it there to keep me from living it up over the weekend. I won't post that weight, but I will weigh-in. Also, my point bank will turn over on Mondays still. It'll be my official start to the week.

New weight: 169.6 (fully clothed :p )/Lbs. to goal: 11.6
Measurements: (taken at home Mon. 1/5, I'll post again the first Monday in Feb.) Bust: 41, Chest: 34, Waist: 31, Hips: 41.5

I'm going to get my hair cut at 11:15, then I'm coming home to my treadie. We have a date for at least 90 minutes! Yikes!

Thank you for stopping in, Amanda and Doreen. I appreciate you listening to me as I attempt to sort out my feelings about all this.
I feel strangely strong and optimistic, and then I have a flash of fear: what if I fail--again? Maybe THAT is who I truly am, not the strong person I feel like I am at the moment. That feeling of it all falling apart, seeing the scale climb up and up and up. . .maybe that's going to happen again. The what ifs can weigh me down if I let them, so I'm just not going to stand for them! Only :sunny: thoughts!

Onward and downward,
Erin

[septbride2002]

I think one of the issues I have with WW (and please anyone doing WW don't take offense to this) is that anyone who does WW should lose weight as long as they do it right. Well I struggled and stuggled with WW for about 6 months - never lost more then 5 lbs and kept thinking to myself I must be doing it wrong. What I think WW doesn't realize is that their plan may not work for everyone. Diabetes runs in my family so carbs really are not that good for me and I notice a huge difference just in water retention as soon as I start eating less carbs and more protein. With WW I always felt deprived of food but everyone kept saying well eat what you love - well what I love is high in points which means that just B, L, and D I had used up all my points and there was nothing left for an extra apple or dessert. Sometimes the low fat, counting calories, is not for everyone and I think that is what Atkins and Protein Power show is that sometimes our bodies need to regulate something different.

I don't like any Weight loss plan that puts down what other people are doing to lose weight (like your propoganda pamphlet) as long as you are trying then that is all that matters. WW is a good plan if you find it works best for you. Personally I think the company needs to come off it's pedestal just a bit.

I'm glad your meeting went well and that you are happy about your return. Like I said WW is a great plan it just doens't work well for me. :)

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:jumping1: UNDER 170 WITH CLOTHES!!! :jumping1:

Oh. My. Gosh!!!! Erin, can you imagine what you will weigh on Monday morning without all that "extra" stuff on??!! Girlfriend, you are lookin' at some serious loss this week!! I think you should use your Monday weigh-in weight in your siggie. Let the WW scale say what it will, but you've been using your scale all this time - it seems a shame to value "their" number over "your" number. Just a thought - you need to do what you think is best. :D

I find it sad that you saw many familiar faces....at familiar weights. :( Makes me wish that all those people could have the experiences we've had, that feeling of success. They may still be showing up but do they really BELIEVE they can succeed? Is that the difference here on WISH? How does one go from hoping to succeed to believing they truly can succeed? Maybe that's one of the things that's different about you now, Erin. I know we all have those moments of doubt, but your recent experience has been one of slow but steady success.

My one big question - at what point are you considered a lifetime member? Just curious.

I think, given your past experiences, it was incredibly brave and courageous of you to walk back in there. You should be very proud of you for facing something that you feel you've left undone and making a committment to finishing it on a positive note once and for all! I admire you for that so much! You are a strong woman, Erin!!

Be good to yourself today! :sunny:

[Castillo Mom]

Wow, you've given me a lot to ponder Erin. But I have to comment on what you said about your feeling that maybe you're not the strong person you think you are and you're afraid of failure. Take a step back and look at yourself from another person's perspective. Set aside any prior attempts at losing weight. If we look back at our failures and let fear get the best of us, then what would be the point of even trying again? We'd just stay stagnated. I mean this applies to every aspect of our life, not just weight loss. Think about how we encourage our children to pick themselves up and dust themselves off when they feel they're failed in some area. I've had that feeling too, thinking, " What if I put the weight on again?" And it doesn't help when a friend reinforces that fear. I think we have to realize that weight is going to be a lifetime struggle for us. Many people comment how difficult it is to stay focused, not cheat and lose any substantial amount of weight. My friend, in comparison to keeping it off, that's the easy part. It's like, ok I've met goal, now what? That's the biggest challenge of all. Don't look back, only forward. You ARE the strong person you think you are, for look at all you've accomplished. This is no time for self doubt. You're reaching a crucial point in your life. We're all pulling for you and we're struggling right there with you as we move closer to our personal goals as well.

I can also relate to what you said about being a different person. You really do begin took at things in a new way. I have a couple of coworkers who have jumped on the Atkins bandwagon because they've seen how much weight I've lost. One in particular went off on vacation and when she came back from her 1 week vacation, I asked her how she did. She seemed reluctant to answer, so I let her off the hook and kind of redirected the conversation. Later on she confessed that she'd gotten completely off plan but was embarassed to admit it. I told her that she needn't feel that way. This had to be a personal choice and that she'd know when SHE was ready, that she shouldn't gauge herself simply by what others may or may not do. This is such a personal journey. For whatever reason, she doesn't have the resolve yet. But I told her that's ok because no one could convince me or nag me enough to do anything about my weight until I truly felt the necessity to do so and for reasons related to my personal circumstances.

As for WW, another dear friend of mine is doing a low carb version of it which was recommended by the lady that directs her meetings, so I don't really understand the contradiction.:confused: Again, I feel that any plan has it's advantages/disadvantages and you have to find the one that's right for you.

Ok, I've gone on long enough. Erin, you ARE strong and you pass on that strength to us every day. Thank you for that.:hug:

[lulu201]

Thank you, Doreen, Lisa, and Amanda. The tears are running down my face; your words of kindness and encouragement have touched my heart, made me feel special and less afraid of failure.
Thank you for being there for me.

Like Lisa said, I know that this will always be a struggle, and I know that I won't always succeed (like my many stumbles last month), but I will ALWAYS get up and try again. Knowing that you all are there to help me when I'm in those weak times makes an incredible difference. :grouphug:

It's funny, Doreen, that you mention my Monday weight as "my" number; I feel that way, too, but couldn't put that feeling into words. I just felt like I couldn't give it up. . .and I guess it's because it's "mine." Maybe because I know that long after I'm done with WW meetings, I'll still be here with you and all of our WISH friends, still doing my report on Monday mornings. :D
Lifetime membership, btw, is the status granted to a member when he/she has been at goal (or under) for six weeks. After that the member needs to only come once a month to weigh in. The member can, though, come to any number of meetings per month for free--as long as he/she weighs no more than two pounds over goal. If you don't meet the weight requirement at that monthly weigh in, ya gotta pay.

I think there are many reasons I saw familiar faces at familiar weights. I can't speak for others as to why they haven't reached their goals, but I know that for me, part of the magic of the WISH is the DAILY (sometimes hourly!) support that is available. With WISH I am surrounded by the friendship of others who are trying to make changes similiar to my own. That didn't always happen at WW, even when I went with friends (which I've done twice in the past). Here on the WISH, we are in this together. Every day. We're making HUGE lifestyle changes! We're challenging each other to new heights in the midst of lives sometimes filled with temptations! We're walking the road less traveled together.

Speaking of walking. . .:p I did my six mile walk. It was long, but it was great. I also got the Pilates for Dummies DVD today at KMart; I'm going to do that tomorrow. DD is also going to help me with some ab work by showing me what her gym teacher is making them do in school. Wait a minute--did I just say I was going to do ab work?????:eek: Whoa, I really am changing into a new person. . .

Thanks again, everyone for all that you do to help me walk this walk--for celebrating my victories, for lifting me when I'm low, and for taking the time to help me figure out the puzzles in my life!:D

I'm going to turn over my clippie now. :p
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Sounds like you had a great day, Erin! Congrats on that 6 mile walk, girlfriend! I can't wait to hear how you like your new Pilates DVD and those new ab exercises that DD is going to show you.

It's great that you feel I've helped you, WISH-sis. I feel honored and blessed to be sharing this journey with you. However, do not forget that you are helping me just as much. We all are learning so much from each other and it's way more important stuff than how to make 0 point vegetable soup (that comment in your journal made me laugh! :p ). This place is amazing!

Sleep tight and sweet dreams, WISH-sis!

:hug:

[lulu201]

It's Sunday, January 11, 2004. GO EAGLES!!:bounce: (Just had to get that out.)

Goals for today:
1. Vitamins.
2. Coffee--2 :p
3. Water--drink lots!
4. Exercise--try first part of Pilates DVD.
5. Food--walk the straight and narrow. I have points left in the bank and I don't want to use them!

I'm off to church. Today I have to fill in for the accompanist and I want to be on time, so I'm off to grab some breakfast.

Here I go,
Onward and downward!
Erin

Edit, 5:45 p.m.

I'm feeling much better about a lot of things. The Christmas tree is down and ALL of the decorations have been put away. Every single one! The wrapping area I had set up in our guest room has been all put away, too. I feel so much better! I'm not a neat freak by any stretch of the imagination, but when I have too much stuff around, it just overwhelms me! It's the "too many piles syndrome" a lot around here, unfortuneately.

Anyway, I worked like a maniac today, but I did my Pilates. It was fun! DD checked my form while I tried the exercises, and then she taught me a stretch they do in gym class. I wouldn't let her teach me any ab exercises, though; the ones on the DVD were enough!

I've been too busy to eat much today, but have gotten in 11 points. That leaves a lot for dinner--13 (14 if I give myself an AP for Pilates. I'll only do that if I'm super hungry).

I'm looking forward to stopping back before bed to change my clippie to 14 DAYS!!!

'Til then,
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Hey, WISH-sis, I'M IN!!!!! I'm all registered, thanks to your phone message!! Will I be able to sleep tonight??!!?? :hyper: :hyper:

We're really gonna do this, aren't we?? It's all starting to seem real!!

WOO-HOO!!!

Now, about your WISHCon clippie....

See my WISHCon clippie in my siggie? Right-click on it, click on properties, and copy the URL address (the http line).

Now go to your profile and find where you want the clippie.

You start with a "<" followed by "img" and a space.
Then you put "height=100" and a space.
Then you put "src=" and paste the URL address you copied.
Then you finish the whole thing (after the "gif") with a ">"

Now have a look at it. If you want the WISHCon clippie to be bigger, just increase the height value.

I'm just so excited!! Thanks so much for letting me know that registration opened early!! :sunny:

[Strings]

Erin,
All I can say is that you are truly inspiring. I felt that I needed to read the entire journal before commenting. You have such a great outlook on your journey. Through reading your journal, I watched you fall off track and get back on immediately. You've struggled, and succeeded. You've done all this while maintaining your sense of humor. You're amazing. I also admire your committment to exercise. You will do so well in the half marathon. I think your reltionship with Doe is wonderful. It demonstrates exactly what WISH is about. Supporting each other in this journey towards health. Thank you again for sharing your journal with us. You have helped me immensely.
Beth

[A1A1]

Holy cow!!!! I just finished your journal, as well. Thank you for sharing. It helps me so much to learn from the experiences of others. I, too, am a music teacher, so it was neat to read and be able to relate to that aspect of your life. I have a bag of starburst chews that I give as treats, and they, too, have been very temptin--just like your tootsie rolls. I think the trick is to give out something we don't like. I could give out those little cinnamon candies or hot tamales, but I don't think the kids or their parents would appreciate that.

I will be joining you and Doe and other WISHer's at the 1/2 marathon. I can't believe I am going to do it, but here I go...


Have a great day tomorrow. I look forward to reading more.:wave:

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, WISH-sis! :sunny:

Hope you managed to get some sleep last night! :hyper:

I wanted to send some :wizard: pixie dust your way - I know you have a date with the scale this morning.

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe of the WISH, future attendee of WISHCon 2005!

[lulu201]

It's a brand new week! :Pinkbounc I'm in training to walk a half marathon! :Pinkbounc In Disney World! :Pinkbounc With my girlfriends!:Pinkbounc Life is just too amazing sometimes.:D

Got on the scale this morning and weighed in at 168. That's four pounds this week! :Pinkbounc I'm going to change my siggie and then change it only on Mondays.

So, I'm feeling good, even though I know that bad days are coming FAST. The D-zone is seriously upon me. I think all the exercise I've been doing is helping, but I fully expect to hit the wall in a couple of days. I know that sounds negative, but history is history and that's how it usually is. When it comes, I'll be ready and will see it through to the other side. I've started taking the naprocin (is that how you spell it?) for the cramping. You've got to take it a few days before you need it for it to work the most effectively.

Today:

1. Vitamins--:D
2. Coffee, 1 (big) cup--:D
3. Exercise--WATP 3 mile. Two miles done. I couldn't finish it because of DDs "morning crisis" as she was getting ready for school. I'll do that in a minute. It's not the ideal way to do a workout, but hey, I'm a mom first, jock athlete second.:p
4. Points--I'm hoping to stay at 26-28. Not particularly hungry so far today. I think I'll have a smoothie for breakfast.
5. Water--I have a new huge WW mug with the oz. written on the side. Now it's easy to keep track of how much I've had. It's my goal to drink 3 mugs worth (that would be 96 oz.) by the end of the day. It goes so much easier when I have a straw.

OK, so that's the plan. I've got the house under control at the moment, but I'm facing a few challenges at work with projects that need to be done. I'm not worried though--baby steps will accomplish things.

Off to the dentist and then to the vet before work this afternoon.
Erin

[DoeWDW]

:jumping3: :bounce: :Pinkbounc :jumping3: 4 POUNDS!!!!

Look at you go, girlfriend!! Seems to me you're headed toward a new clippie soon too! We jock athletes sure know how to shed those pounds, don't we?? :p

Be good to you during this busy day! Hopefully we'll both sail :boat: through the D-Zone this month! I've got my Trident handy and I hope you have yours, just in case the Munchie Monster tries to launch a sneek attack! :teeth:

Have a wonderful day, Erin! :sunny:

[DizMare]

Yeah Erin!! Goodbye 4 more pounds! You know, I think you SCARED away those pounds - they can't mess with you anymore. You are no longer an ordinary woman watching her weight - you are an ATHLETE IN TRAINING! Wahoo to you!!

My scale did not register a happy number for me this morning :( but I am taking courage from your committment! From now on, I am in training with the WishCon girls!

Love ya,
Mare

[Strings]

Wow! 4 pounds. Congratulations. All your hard work and dedication is really paying off. Bye-Bye pounds.
Beth

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin!

You're down 4 pounds? Way to go! You must feel great. Training for the marathon must be helping. Keep up the fantastic work and I hope when you do hit the wall, you will remember we are all here to support you. I also hope instead of hitting the wall, you are able to punch through it or jump over it or kick it down or something like that. In any case, you have such a sunny disposition (and your meds) so I hope you will come out the other side quickly.

[lulu201]

Hi, Lisa Z., Beth, Mare :D , and Doreen!:wave: Thanks for stopping by. What fun to come to my journal and receive all the love and support you guys send.

I made it through the day, but do have some things I have to catch up on tonight at home after everyone goes to bed. Gee, I hate working late. Hopefully if I just get to it and don't mess around, I'll be able to go to sleep feeling like I don't have it hanging over me tomorrow.

With the exception of an extra LARGE cup of coffee that I got at 7-11 today, I made it through the day OK. Haven't had dinner yet (it's 8:45), but I'll run down to the kitchen and have some soup as soon as I'm done here. Points-wise, I know that I'll be cheat free again today, so I've already changed my clippie. Oh, did I mention that I finished the WATP tape? Felt good to do it again.

So, that's it. Lots of comments and compliments have been coming my way lately. It's nice. People just about want to fall over, though, when they hear about The Walk. I don't have a reputation as a jock athlete. . .yet. :p

'Night all and thanks again. You guys help keep me keeping on.
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Princess Lulu!! :sunny:

I hope you slept well after finishing up your work last night.

Isn't it great when the compliments start rolling in? It must feel wonderful to have others notice!

Have a great day, Erin! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Good morning; it's Tuesday, 1/13! I can't believe we're almost half way through January. I'm glad--January, as a month, never has thrilled me much. Too cold!

Here's the plan, as usual:
1. Vitamins--:D
2. Coffee--:D drinking it now. Oh, and no more this afternoon.
3. Water--32 oz.+ down the hatch; much more to go.
4. Exercise--day off from walking. Regular work seems to be enough step-wise.
5. Food--Yesterday topped off at 29. That was OK, but I should have eliminated one of the snacks. I tried to eat at two hour intervals throughout the afternoon and evening (Chex mix at 2, cheese stick at 4, jello pudding at 6) to avoid being really hungry at night. It worked, but the quality and the point value of the snacks could improve. Not enough veggies yesterday.

B--egg, whole grain toast, 1 tsp. butter, coffee w/cream=6
Plans for L--salad w/chicken or tuna, olives, dressing=6 or 7
snack--fruit
D--Tuesday night soft tacos=13
dessert--s.f. jello spectacular=0
As long as I stick to the plan, I should be OK.

I'm off and running into the day. Have to stop by some journals first, though--
Erin

[septbride2002]

:Pinkbounc WAY TO GO!! 4 Pounds GONE! :Pinkbounc

You are doing great Erin! How can you not be walking on air at the moment! Sounds like you are doing great and I can't wait for you to go to your next WW meeting and show the lady that you have already lost 4 lbs. You are doing so fabulous!

I agree with you about your snacks you might want to cut out some of those manufactured carbs like in the chex mix and go for natural foods and carbs in veggies. Celery, Carrots, and sliced peppers make great snacks and are low in points. Also strawberries and grapes I remember being low in points as well.

I need to take some of my own advice and work it into my day. Maybe tonight I will slice up some peppers and put them in the little snack bags for me to have tomorrow. :)

~Amanda

[marsh0013]

erin, i am new to wish, and i just wanted to say that i've been reading along with your journal for a while now, and that you are such an inspiration! even though you don't know me, i just wanted to say thanks :) and keep up the great work!

[DoeWDW]

Good morning to my favorite princess!! :sunny:

Thanks for your thoughts on my bear clippie dilemma. I love your idea of coming up with a way to frame things in a positive light, to focus on the good things we're doing for ourselves. We really are working hard at this and deserve a pat on the back or a cute clippie to recognize and celebrate all the healthy changes we're incorporating into our daily lives. I'll probably use the bear for now but my brain will be working on something else.....:D

Wednesday.....Hump Day.....a long day for you but it's the middle of the workweek. Enjoy your bunchkins (little kids) today - if you don't have energy left, just soak up some of their's - they seem to have an endless supply! :teeth: Just looking at those smiles must bring you warm and fuzzy feelings! ::yes::

Have a happy and wonderful day, girlfriend! :happy1:

:hug:

[lulu201]

Good morning. :o I think. DD was up late into the night doing homework--her first experience with "finish the project tonight 'cause it's due tomorrow" panic, so I was up late, too. She learned a valuable lesson about budgeting time; I have just have bags under my eyes!

I'm deep, deep, deep into the D-Zone today. Lack of sleep and fatigue are making me very vulnerable--I was already feeling it yesterday a bit. I won't go into sordid details, but let's just say it involved a significant point withdrawal from the bank and a Butterfinger bar, and a little chex mix, and a little. . .you get the picture. Because of the way WW is set up, I don't register a "cheat" unless I binge uncontrollably without keeping track of the points or I create a negative balance for myself in the point bank. So far, none of that, but I'm going to have to keep careful track of myself today.

I'm going to take your advice, Amanda, and set myself up with some healthy snacks. I won't get home until 8 p.m., so I'm going to take a bunch of veggies, a cheese stick, etc. to work with me. I'm also going to STAY AWAY FROM THE JUNK. Last night, as I was mentally doing the math for how many points are in oreos, I heard all my WISH buddies in my ear saying "Step away from the cookies," and I did! The power of this group is amazing!:p

Hi, Marcia!:wave: Thanks for stopping by! That was so nice of you! Good luck on your healthy living journey! WISH is a wonderful place for support and friendship. Come back and visit again!

Going slowly into the new--rather long--day. No high expectations for myself. Not even my 3 mile walk, I'm ashamed to say. I'll do it tomorrow--I have the morning off. Well, not off, exactly, I'm supposed to be doing lesson plans, but maybe a walk would be a healthy form of procrastination? Like daughter, like mother!:p

Erin

[A1A1]

Hi lulu. I seems that when you are in that zone it is good to do the healthy things that help you get through it. I think going for a walk is a great idea.

You seemed to have identified other strategies for coping with these challenging days. Good for you for keeping a potential out-of-control situation in control. You seem to have gotten back in control quickly. You had the WISH angels on one shoulder and the Oreo devil on the shoulder. Good thing the WISH angels can shout louder!

You have done so well. It is wonderful to read your journals. I have only posted twice, but have been reading. Good luck with your day today. Stay warm. Have a nice walk.:wave:

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

I'm just stopping by to see how you are doing. I'm so glad you were able to hear us shouting to step away from those cookies! The support on this board is priceless. And we must have really loud voices because I could hear my WISH buddies telling me to get my lazy butt out the bed this morning and work out! Have a good day and eat some of those healthy snacks!

[littleducksmom]

erin.........hang in there today and be strong!!!!!!........you can make the right choices.......just stopping by to say hi!!!!!!!!!

[Castillo Mom]

STEP AWAY FROM THE OREOS! Hi Erin. I bought chocolate chip cookies for the kids this weekend along with Nilla Wafers. I could eat a bowl full of those things. But we must resist!:teeth:

[DoeWDW]

I hope your day went well, Erin! I know it was probably a tough one, with not enough sleep last night and the D-Zone.

I'm sending warm thoughts to combat the bitter cold and snow and wishes for a restful night's sleep tonight.

:hug:
Your WISH-sis :happy1:

[Strings]

Oh Erin, I hope your day was better than expected. You've done a great job preparing for a tough day. Having healthy snacks ready is a great strategy. Just in case, NO OREOS. :grouphug: to you. I hope you are getting some well deserved sleep tonight.
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, princess: Lulu!! :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

I'd send you some warm thoughts but I'm afraid they'd be cold by the time they got to Bucks county.... :crazy: ....and you don't need anything cold right now! ::yes:: Bucks county should be celebrating today - the Bucks county team won the sheep to shawl competition at the Farm Show yesterday!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc

I know you're a busy gal at the moment! Focus on getting your lesson plans / curriculum written. We'll be here when things ease up in your schedule. I know that even when you don't have time to post, you can feel all of us walking with you on that healthy living road. If you lose your way, we'll send out the search parties and bring you back! :crazy:

:hug: for you, WISH-sis! :happy1:
princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Wow! I feel like a big :grouphug: is all around me today. I woke up at 5:15 and checked the school website to find a SNOW DAY!:Pinkbounc While I may have to go to work anyway, at least I got to sleep in this morning. We're all up at 5:30 usually, so this extra rest was quite a treat. Anyway, I've just made my way to the computer and I find myself surrounded by all of your kindness and good wishes: Thank you, Doreen and Lisa C. and Lisa Z. and A and Beth and Deb and Amanda and Marcia! You guys are such blessings in my life.

Yesterday was OK food-wise, but I walked a fine line. I have to really be careful or I'm going to close out my account in the old point bank. The healthy snacks I packed helped tremendously--no OREOS!:p

Physically, I'm low even though I had a good eleven hours of sleep last night!! This should be the worst of it though, and tomorrow I should start making the slow climb out of the D-Zone pit. Mentally, though, I feel on target. Happy in knowing that you all are walking this healthy living walk with me. I'm going to do some form of walking today--probably the WATP tape because the garage where the treadie is a bit cold this a.m. It's still warm if it's 20 degrees outside--but if it's 9 degrees outside, I'm not too sure--I don't like to walk with my coat on!

I'm going to really push the water today and try to eat light. I feel bloated like a whale! I'm holding a couple of extra pounds (yes, I gave in and checked); I'm looking forward to the Whoosh Fairy in a couple of days!

It's my plan to get around to everyone's journals soon--this weekend at the latest. By then I should be on track work-wise. I'm looking forward to catching up on everything everyone's been going through.

Love to all,
Erin:grouphug:

[Strings]

Erin, You're almost past the danger point. Hope Whoosh Fairy visits tomorrow. :wizard: headed your way
Beth

[septbride2002]

I use to LOVE snow days when I was a kid. Those were the best days. Sounds like you are having a great week. Erin I want to stress to you how proud I am of you for going so long cheat free. You are certainly talking the talk and walking the walk. You are truly and inspiration to me to get up and do better. I never ever would have done as well as I have if I didn't have you and Doreen's support to be cheat free. I only wish I could have gone the whole month - but it wasn't meant to be. I am still trying though because I want to make you proud! Have an awesome day!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Hey princess: Lulu!! Here's some extra sunshine to warm you up! :sunny: :sunny: Tomorrow should be warmer and Sunday I hear we're headed into the 30's for a high!! :sunny:

I've been reading lots about training for the half. Everyone seems to use the winter just to maintain base mileage. They wait until spring to start building up to higher mileage and increase speed. If you are just holding your own with a couple 3 mile walks per week, I think you'll be fine until the spring thaw!

Here's hoping that you have a great Friday and can ease into the weekend! :happy1:

:hug:
princess: Doe-Doe, your WISH-sis :happy1:

[lulu201]

Wow, there's lots of magic on these boards. I woke up and went to the computer and friends had visited while I was gone! :Pinkbounc Lucky me! :D Thanks, Amanda, Beth, and Doreen. You've given me smiles first thing in the morning!

I do NOT have good news to report, however. For the first time this month, the old bear is not moving up. I was just NOT in the groove yesterday. OK, I started the day with good intentions, I admit, but as the day wore on and my body dragged itself into the work day, I fell apart!:faint:

I forgot to take my vitamins, I worked through my walk time, and then I bought Girl Scout cookies from one of my students. I opened the box to share them with my 4:30 class. . .not a good move. I ate one. Then I figured I'd give the rest to my 5:30 class and then I wouldn't have any left to tempt me. . .I ate TWO!!!!
That left me 1.5 points for the day; did I stop eating? No, I went home and had some cheese and crackers, a grilled ham and cheese sandwich, and some TWIZZLERS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Oh, and my sugar free jello!:p

No, not good at all, but you know what? It's OK. I'm ready to try again today and I feel positive. This is such a hard week for me, this whole d-zone thing, and I'm so much better physically and mentally than I used to be. . .I used to have such horribly negative feelings about myself and the cravings and the fatigue, but I'm more accepting now and understand that it will pass and the resolve will return if I don't drown it in negative thoughts. What's done is done and I'm ready to move on.

So, the goals for today are as follows:
1. Water--drink tons. Yesterday I just didn't get it in. The day turned out to be quite busy.
2. Vitamins--I won't forget!
3. Exercise--yep, today I'm going to do it. Thanks, Doreen, for the training info.
4. Food--I have a general plan for the day in mind.
5. Coffee--I think when I stop a WaWa today with DD, I'll have some green tea instead. :D

Still thinking about the WW meeting tomorrow. . .DH says that he doesn't think it's the right place for me anymore. I'm tending to agree, but still have to think through some points.

:wave: Off to live a brand new :sunny: day,
Erin

************************************************** **
Later that same day. . .:D

1. Drank about 16 oz. so far.
2. Vitamins--check.
3. Exercise--will do 3 miles later today. Schedule does say 7 miles for tomorrow. Gulp. 17 miles for the entire week.
4. Breakfast--whole grain toast w/pb, coffee w/cr.=5.5
5. Coffee--all done.

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

I'm so sorry this whole D-zone thing has you in a down mood. It does sound like you are getting control of your negative emotions (care to share how you do that?). You are so right that tomorrow is done and today is another day.

A co-worker of mine has the Girl Scout Cookie brochure plastered up in the employee lunchroom and I wasn't even phased by it - that is until I saw those double chocolate ones! I'm holding steady though. It figures the first year I resolve not to buy any, they come out with my favorite type of cookie. I am resisting the urge to buy 10 or 12 boxes;).

Take care of yourself and I know you will do better today!

[marsh0013]

aaaa, the girl scout cookies! my mom decided to clean out the kitchen closet today and reorganize everything, and once all that was done, you could see how many boxes of those things we have in my house! they're all lined up, at least 10 boxes! crikes!

anyway, erin, you're doing so great! yeah, you had the run in wth the cookies, etc, but it's ok, right back on track. hope your day went well and that you are feeling better! :D

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin! :sunny: :sunny:

It's a bright new day! Hopefully it will be a few degrees warmer! :D You will be right back on track - I'm just sure of it! We've both come a long way, haven't we? princess: princess:

I hope you'll find some "Erin time" today (besides that long walk!) to just relax and recharge your batteries.

I'll have my pedometer on - logged 14,500+ steps yesterday! With your walk today, you should see a truly amazing number on your peddie!! :hyper:

On to another cheat free day, princess: Lulu! :sunny:

:cool1: :cool1: Walking right beside you!
princess: Doe-Doe

[lulu201]

Hi, all, thanks for stopping by Doreen, Lisa Z., and Marcia. I DIDN'T get back on track yesterday--I made it until 8 p.m., though. Today I'm going to be OK, I can feel it in my bones. I'm going to get on the scale, assess the damage, and get back into the swing!

Goals:
1. Vitamins
2. Exercise--6 or 7 miles, depending how I feel
3. Water--tons
4. Food 24-29 points
5. Coffee--finishing it up for the day now.

I did lots of good things yesterday; just have to stay within the points.

Still thinking about WWatcher meetings. . .

Off into the day,
Erin

************************************************** **
Still trying to keep a positive feeling here, but I'm feeling more vulnerable as the day wears on. Here's my update.

1. Still haven't taken my vitamins.
2. I walked two miles on the treadie. Today I just feel like it's too boring to stare at the garage door for an hour and a half. (How's that for a bad attitude?:mad: )
3. Water--that I'm doing. I'm filling up my WW mug like crazy.
4. B--oatmeal and my coffee, L-slice of cheese, toast w/pb=12
so far. I've got to make some sugar free jello and buy some healthy snacks.

Thanks, Lisa and Marcia for stopping in. Your encouragement helps tremendously.

[marsh0013]

hey erin, focus on the good things that you did do yesterday, not so much on teh going over points. as long as you keep doing good things, you are going to be just fine. i know you can stay within your points today. i'll be thinking about you and sending good vibes your way! ::yes:: have a wonderful day!

[Castillo Mom]

Good morning Erin! Don't feel too bad about those cookies, today is another day and you can start off fresh and cheat free. Just keep looking forward and I'm sure you'll be back on track in no time. Have a good weekend.:D

[septbride2002]

Morning Erin! Just wanted to stop by and give you a :hug: I'm sending you lots and lots of support today.

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Erin, here's an extra :hug: , sweetie! You'll be just fine. I hope you're feeling better. Some of our days are tougher than others, but that's OK. You've had way more good days than bad days, and your bad days really haven't been all that bad - not like they used to be! ::yes::

Hang in there and I just know you'll have a brighter outlook in a day or two. :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

[A1A1]

Reading and checking in on you today lulu. Hang in there........You'll soon be back in the swing. You have been doing so well.

I agree about the boredome of staring at one spot on the wall while treadmilling.

[lulu201]

:sunny: OK, girls, it's a brand new day and I'm ready to take it on!:sunny: :hyper: Thank you all for stopping by and offering support; I appreciate your kindness. I'm going to kick myself in the buttoosky though today and get back on program. I wasn't happy being on it the last few days, but I'm unhappier being OFF.
:confused:

I've been struggling with a few things this week: extra work, buying a new house, the WW meeting issue, the cold weather in the garage! I think I've got my "stuff" pretty much resolved; now I just have to adjust my attitude.

I've got the extra work under control, and I think I have a routine established. I'm actually going to work on the curriculum project more this afternoon (just for a little while). I'm proud with what I've come up with so far.

The whole house thing is discouraging--we have champagne tastes with a Bud Lite budget! It's not gloom and doom, though. Being self employed, DH and I have a bit of unique situation when it comes to mortgaging; we've been approved for a lot more than we feel we can afford. So the restrictions are ones we place on ourselves. . .kind of like all of us WISHers choosing to live in a healthy way. We COULD take on a huge payment and then have lots of sleepless nights, but we're realizing that we don't want to do that. We really like where we live now, but I got all interested in moving because of new construction going up nearby, and now I have to be realistic. That's one of the things I love about being 42--the perspective is better. At 32 I would've said "let's go for it" and then been worried sick with all the what ifs. We have a great realtor and we've decided to explore different options as they come up. In the meantime we'll stay put.

I decided not to go to WW this week. Maybe I'll go next week, but probably not. I just don't feel comfortable there any more. I thought I would. I thought I'd just jump back in, but as DH says, I'm not that person any more. I'm struggling with feelings of disappointment in myself because I said I was going to finish what I started! If I'm honest with myself, there are two main reasons I didn't go back: the pressure to buy a prepayment plan, but even bigger--I didn't lose this week. Not losing on the first week is like a HUGE deal. EVERYONE that's new to the program loses if they're at all serious about it. At WW they don't know that I've been on the program for 6 months already and this week was the D-Zone--to them, this is week #1. I just couldn't see paying them $12 to get "the look." (The Look is what you get when you gain and they don't say anything. . .) Ughh. I should've gone. I should've gone to face the miserable music. Maybe I'll go next Saturday. . .

And finally, the garage issue. The treadie is coming back inside this afternoon. I'm setting up a workout area inside that will give me whatever I need--music or, for the long 90-120 minute walks, the tv. I'm feeling happy about that. . .no more frigid temps staring at the door! DH and I went to a beautiful fitness center yesterday to check out the pricing, but again, it was just more than we felt comfortable paying per month. I was disappointed, but bringing the treadie in will work just fine.

So, there's my novel for the day. The bottom line is, I'm ready to get back on track. Today I'm going to move my bear forward. I'm weighing in today and every day this week. I just need to keep a close eye on myself.

1. I'm going to take the vitamins. I never got to it yesterday.
2. I'm going to have my coffee at home and church.
3. I'm going to exercise on the treadie; probably for an hour or so today.
4. I'm going to eat in a healthy way.
5. I'm going to drink water all day long!

Thank you, everyone, for stopping by. I've felt your :grouphug:
around me!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, dear Erin! :sunny: :sunny:

Today is the first day of the rest of your life! It may be trite but it's true! It sounds like you are starting to resolve some of the uncertainties. I think moving the treadie inside is a wonderful idea, at least until things warm up. Once those beautiful spring days come around, I'm sure you'll be enjoying walks outside. We'll have to plan more walks together to decrease your boredom! :hyper:

I'm glad you have decided to stay where you are for now and keep an open mind to other options as the realtor finds them. Taking on a mountain of debt is never a good idea. When the right situation comes along, you'll know.

What can I say about Weight Watchers. You are a mature adult, Erin. You do not need to go to them and be subjected to "the look". You know your body and your rhythms. You also know that this past week was NOT the week you were going to drop a lot of pounds. Whether you go to the meetings or not, you will know when you've reached your goal. Do you really need "them" to acknowledge that? Only you can answer the question.

In my eyes, you're a success already, Erin. You've made changes that will last you a lifetime, and you've made them because you want to be healthier and happier, not because you wanted to avoid "the look". You've inspired me and countless others here to do the same.

Love ya, WISH-sis! :happy1:

[septbride2002]

I'm with Doe on the WW thing. You really don't need them especially if they are going to throw you a look.:rolleyes: Why would you need that pressure and unuseful behaviour in your life? Sheesh. And they wonder why their numbers are falling.

I understand what you mean about buying a new house. When DH and I were looking at the beginning of last year we were approved for this very very very large amount. I turned to the banker and said, "And will you be helping me with the monthly payment?" I work in lending so if you ever have any questions please feel free to P.M. me and I'll be happy to give you some advice or just rates. We had to put restricitions on ourselves as well. It is a bit frustrating since yes we found homes that were being built or were brand new that were just beyond our reach.

I know you are going to have a great day today! Yeah on bringing the treadmill inside the house where you have a few more comforts.

~Amanda

[marsh0013]

erin, you are such a source of inspiration for me! you may feel like you failed this past week, but your resolve in moving on and doing what's best for you is a great accomplishment in and of itself. it was a tough week, but you survived it. i agree with everybody else about the ww meetings. you've been doing great all along on your own, unless you felt like you were going to be getting extra support from the people at the meetings, i don't see a need to go (i'm an online ww-er, and that works for me!). you know what's best for you. and it seems like the meeting would have been more of a negative than a positive.

today is going to be a great day for you, and that's just the beginning! i know you're going to do well. one day at a time. enjoy that treadmill inside! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Update on 1/18--

The treadie is back inside. Oooh, life is going to be cushy now! I can look out the window, be warm, watch "Good Morning, America.. .":p I'm lovin' it!

I got to church this morning and they had the cutest little mini-bagels. I always avoid the breakfast/snack area (except for the coffee, of course :p ), but today these adorable little two point bagels caught my eye. Something new for breakfast! I picked some up at the store after church, along with some kind of yummy gourmet cream cheese blend (I forget what it is now--oh, maybe roasted red pepper?). Tomorrow I'll have a new treat for the morning.

b--mini-bagel w/1 tbsp. cream cheese, coffee w/cream=6
l--salad w/grilled chicken, 5 black olives, dressing=6

I'm drinking lots of water. My rings are so tight, I have to yank them off. Normally, I can shake them off my hand! Guess you could say I'm a bit bloated today!

I did a little cleaning in my closet today; I bought a new over the door shoe holder, and I was able to stash about 16 pairs of shoes on that baby! Now DH and I can get in the door. You could say it's been awhile since it was a "walk in." I also have a box of stuff I'm going to go through today. I just want to get rid of things and lighten up.

Doreen and Amanda, I appreciate your input on all my life dilemmas :D . You're wise women and I appreciate your opinions.
I'm going to think about all you had to say about WW--maybe it's time I just release it all from my life? Like you said, I don't need their acknowledgement, the "look," or the pressure. I think that what I really need is that hour and half I spend on going to the meeting being spent on the treadie instead!! Maybe I have to ask myself what it is I DO need from them and then see if I can get it elsewhere. I know I don't need the group support--I have more here than I ever did in my 12 year off and on WW history. I THOUGHT I needed help learning how to maintain weight loss--maybe that help I can get elsewhere: on the boards, through reading and research, from just walking the walk each day. We'll see.

Now I'm off to grab those vitamins before I forget!

[DizMare]

Hi Erin!
Sooo glad to hear the treadie is indoors! It was such a sad picture, you walking in the chill staring at the garage door! I would go stir crazy.

Mine is in front of the tv, and I videotape programs to watch while I walk - it's the only way I can stay on for an hour. Sometimes if I'm watching a show live, I speed up my pace during the commercials. My own version of sprinting. ;)

I hear ya about the $12 cost to get the hairy eyeball or the silent treatment! You know the program, and the meetings are just to offer suggestiions and support - both of which are available here for significantly less money!! Your life is already so busy! You don't need another time committment, especially one that is not meeting your current, individual needs.

Egads! How dare they give you the "look" when you've lost 32 pounds! The nerve of them!:crazy:

You, girl, are a work in progress, a success in the making. So there.

Love ya,
Mare

[lulu201]

Aww, Mare, thanks for that! :D I was thinking about you today and wondering how you're doing. What kind of walking are you doing? Are you walking every day? Every other? Did you go to about.com and get their training schedule? I need the details, girl, I need the details! I was supposed to do 7 miles yesterday, 3 tomorrow, 3 on Wed., and 4 on Fri. Since I couldn't face the garage--yeah, I was quite pathetic walking and looking at that garage door :( --I only did two yesterday, but I got in four today, so I'm feeling good about that.

Anyway, Mare, I like the idea of "sprinting" on the commercials. I'm going to try that tomorrow a.m. I'm hoping to do the long walk early in the day and then I'll take Tuesday off.

Girls, I'm hearing what you're saying about the WW meetings. . .I'll let you know how I feel about it by Saturday.

Gotta finish up my goals for the day:
Vitamins--finally took 'em.
Food--dinner: 3 oz. chicken, 1 cup cheese tortellini, 1/4 marinara sauce, 1 tsp. parmesan cheese, 1 cup or so roasted veggies=12.5
Dessert will be later: s.f. jello and lite cool whip=0
Total: 24.5 w/AP left over

Sigh. I'm going to move my clippie over now, so I don't botch things up later. :D It feels good to have had a good day.

Off to check in on friends--
Erin

[DizMare]

My pleasure, Erin!
I haven't started the about.com training yet - I think I'll make that a goal for this week.

Currently I walk/run 5 days a week, for about 45 minutes a session, going about 2.75 miles. ( I think that mileage is correct.) I walk for 5 minutes, run for 5, repeat. When I walk, I walk at 3.7 and I run at 5.0.

Last week I tried just walking at 3.7 for 45 minutes. It seemed harder than running some, for some strange reason.

I also do about 15 minutes of free weights 3 days a week and 15 minutes of pilates 2 days a week. Saturdays I try to walk with Tim (a serious workout as he has a huge stride for a short guy) but lately the combination of hockey and weather have kept us from our walks. Sundays I rest.

How long is it taking you to walk 7 miles? And are you up at "race" speed, or just now working on distance? It is just amazing what you are doing on your treadie! An inspiration, I tell ya!

I have to say, sometimes I get nervous that I'm going to be able to maintain the race pace for 13 miles. But, it wasn't that long ago that I would only be able to run for a minute before my heart threatened to escape my chest! I gotta think positive!

Here's to a good week for us all!
Mare

[lulu201]

Oh, gosh, it's time to face the music. I'm still water-filled and plump, carrying two extra pounds into the new week. My siggie shows my TOM gain. :( It'll be gone in a day or two, but still it brings me down a bit. :(

OK, enough of that. It's not going to do me any good. Staying on track is what's going to do me good!:Pinkbounc Plans for the day are as follows:

1. Vitamins--done it!
2. Water--first 32 oz. are still sitting here on the desk, but I'm going to start guzzling soon.
3. Exercise--I'm going to do 7 miles on the treadie, beginning in a few minutes. Mare, I walked the 6 in 91 minutes last week and I was happy with that pace, but because I walked 2 on Sat. and 4 yesterday (at 58 min., 30 sec.), I'm just going to stroll along today. I'm going to set the treadie at 3.5 and just walk along for TWO HOURS!!!! That time element always gets to me! Anyway, I may run during the commercials just to kick things up a notch!
4. Food--I'm a happy WWer this morning, because I have a full point bank again. It's like getting a paycheck--a full bank to draw from. I love it! The two hour walk should earn me mega activity points, so I doubt I'll have to withdraw anything. I had oatmeal for breakfast (I turned up my nose at my cute mini-bagels--maybe one for lunch or a snack instead); the carbs in the oatmeal just sounded more like a power breakfast for a jock athlete like myself!:p Oh, I made some s. f. jello for my treat tonight. That jello is my power treat--as long as I know I can have that around
8 p.m., I'm feeling in control. Is that weird or what????
5. Coffee--here I'm a bit vulnerable. I'm almost out of green tea. Will have to get some later. I make no promises.

All right, now, I'm off and walking. I feel upbeat and ready to take on today's challenges!

Here I go!
E.

************************************************** **
Edit #1: I walked the 7 miles w/one ultra quick bathroom, water fill-up break. The first half took 56.30, the second was 55.30, total of 112 minutes; 16 min./mi. I feel good that I did it, but it was tough. My legs, hips, lower back were all feeling it. I'm sure glad I have many days to train! I can't imagine what it will be like to physically keep the pace myself, as opposed to letting the treadie do it. That's my goal, though, for summer--to get lots of miles from outside walks, and train my body to do the work itself.
My stomach is grumbling. I think I used up the packet of instant oatmeal I had this morning!

[DoeWDW]

Erin, you sound so positive this morning! :sunny: I'm going to try to borrow some of your sunny attitude!

Good luck on your long walk - at least you'll be warm inside with TV to watch!

We have our sunny WISH buddies walking with us today - how could we be anything but positive?? :sunny:

[DizMare]

Erin, you impress me yet again! Your pace on the 9 mile is 15.2 and on the 4 is 14.6. That's at race pace! Good for you!!

And hurrah for finishing the two hour walk in such great time!! Well done!!

I did 55 minutes today, and even turned it up to 6.0 speed for a couple of minutes - you inspired me. It IS a pain finding two hours in a day to walk!! Guess it has to be done, tho. I'll have to find an old movie to record on TNT!

Must remember to get some sugar free jello at the store so I, too, can have a power treat to look forward to at night when the munchies hit.

(I make myself regular oatmeal, and add a half of chopped up apple, some raisins and cook it, then I add a handful of walnuts and skim milk. Don't know the point value, but it is heavy on nutrition and sustaining.)

Have a dandy day, Erin!!

[Strings]

Wow Erin, I'm sorry you had such a hard week. You sure have come out of it though. That 2 hour walk sounds like a killer. I'm impressed. You are making so many good decisions lately. The house, the cost of the gym, and WW. I know you'll make the right decisions for yourself. I'm proud of you.:grouphug:
Have a great day
Beth

[A1A1]

Way to go with the 7 mile walk. It is such a great distance, coupled with a great time. You will definitely be prepared for the 1/2 marathon in January. Who knows, you may be ready for the full!;)

You sound so resolved. You seem to have managed your D-zone and have come out the other side unscathed. Great for you. I don't have cable tv, and have to have it in order to get any channels on the tv. I am going to get it now with all this talk of running during commercials. What a great idea! It is brutal just looking at a wall. Good dance music gets me going. Only thing is, most cd's mix it up with a balld here and there. I have to skip those, because I notice my pace going so slowly I could be walking backward.

Have a great day/week, and thank you for your support.

[septbride2002]

Erin girl - you are rockin! Good for you! Dh and I were going to walk tonight but it is down in the 20's and just way to cold to do that. We may have to join the YMCA. thank goodness we have all spring, summer, and fall to train for the marathon. Once it warms up we are going to be super dedicated.

I know you are going to add a day to your bear today - I just feel it!

~Amanda

[honeymo78]

Erin - I just checked out some of your journal after seeing how much encouragement you've been giving Doreen. Let me just say that you are an amazing woman! You rock! 7 miles at one time is just wonderful. Sometimes I struggle with just a mile at 3.0 but I understand it is something you have to work up to. I can't wait to see you reach your weight and fitness goals!

Keep up the great work.

[lulu201]

Thanks, everyone, stopping by! When I accomplish the long distance walks in my training program, I feel like celebrating and when I come to my journal and read that Doreen, Mare, A, Beth, Amanda, and Stephanie have visited during the day--it's like a party! Thanks, guys. :grouphug: I appreciate your encouragement and positive :goodvibes .

So, I'm off into the day.

1. Exercise--DAY OF REST! Just my usual teaching schedule.
2. Water--gotta drink lots.
3. Points--I'm going to stay within 24-26.
4. Coffee--Bought green tea yesterday, so I have no excuses not to stop after my morning cup.
5. Vitamins--I'll take 'em, I'll take 'em.

That's the plan; now I just have to do it!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, princess: Lulu! :sunny:

You've got your plans in place and will have a well-earned day of rest from your exercise! I bet you'll get lots of movement in with your students today - exercise disguised as fun! :teeth:

I've just gotten some new decaf green tea with peach flavor - I'm anxious to try it today. What flavor are you drinking these days?

Have a wonderful Tuesday, WISH-sis! :happy1:

[marsh0013]

hey erin! :wave:

i'm so impressed by your 7 mile walk! and at a great pace too! you are well on your way to being ready for the half marathon. how exciting! :hyper:

and the plan for today sounds like a good one. you can stick to it, and have a cheat free day for sure! have a great day! :bounce:

[Castillo Mom]

Woo, you've been a busy bee haven't you? 7 miles of walking? I'm impressed! I was telling Beth that I'm going to pick up a WATP this weekend. You guys are inspiring me to get moving!::yes::

[lulu201]

1/21 Happy Wednesday!:Pinkbounc

Plans are as follows:

1. Vitamins--they're laid out on the counter, I'll take them before I go to work.
2. Exercise--walked three miles on the treadie this a.m., 45.30
3. Points--With AP, I'm going to try to maintain 26. S.F. jello is in the fridge for tonight.
4. Water--32 oz. gone so far
5. Coffee--working on it now. Green tea this afternoon.

I like how I feel getting that walk done early (5:45-6:30); I'm going to try to do that on Friday, too. It's just best to get it out of the way! It's all much nicer since I'm not going into the garage.

The Whoosh Fairy has been to my house; Doe-Doe, I'm sending her your way next. Watch for her, OK?:p I'm going to go ahead and post today's weight for no other reason than I'm happy about it and don't want to wait until Monday. I do vow, though, not to change my clippie until Monday a.m. at my regular weigh-in.

::yes:: Onward and Downward! Step by step, pound by pound.

[Strings]

Hello Whoosh Fariy! She is y favorite fairy at the moment. You are doing a great job exercising. I admire your dedication. Erin what kind of green tea do you drink? I need to get off the coffee/ caffinated black tea.

[DoeWDW]

:Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc Bye-Bye Pounds!! :wave2:

I can see why you were happy with the scale this morning! Good for you, Erin!! I'll be watchin' for the whooshin' at my house soon!! :rotfl: I'll be so excited to see you wearing that beautiful new clippie on Monday morning!! :sunny:

Also, congrats on getting your walking finished early! I really must get back into the routine of early AM exercise - thanks for the reminder of how good I feel when I get it done early! :D

Have a fabulous day, skinny princess: Lulu!! ::yes::

[ZerasPride]

Wow Erin, you are doing so well. I couldn't even imagine walking 7 miles! You will be in such good shape for the marathon. You sound so excited in your posts. I think it's catching! Knowing you are up early getting your work out in will help me get up out the bed tomorrow and not hug my pillow like I did this morning!

Keep it up, you are an inspiration!

[lulu201]

It was a really good day, but I am BEAT! This will be me in a few minutes, I hope: :o zzzzzzz, but I had to stop in here first and wrap up the day.

I'm taking my pedometer off my jeans and it says: 14,110. :Pinkbounc That was with my 3 mile walk this morning, of course, but still it was a busy day. I only got 7900 yesterday. Monday, with the 7 miler, was 19,000+ :crazy: . One day it said something unbelievable like 24000, and I knew the setting had to be wrong. Sure enough it was, so I put it back on the least sensitive. Now THAT would've been something!

Food-wise, the day was great. I borrowed 1.5 from the bank, yesterday 0 from the bank, and Monday 3. So, I'm at 30.5 out of 35. I can live with that. Tomorrow, because it's my day off from walking, I'm going to keep my points low--no withdrawals from the bank. It's amazing what life is like on the other side of the D-Zone. The cravings are gone. Everything is easier in life. Truly.
It's a wonderful thing to come out on the other side! Thank goodness you understand what I'm talking about, Doreen. There are so many days that I feel we're standing in almost the same pair of shoes!

Hey, Beth, thanks for stopping in--I'm drinking a green tea cocktail these days: one bag mint plus one bag ginseng. I LOVE my coffee, but I've been trying to cut back in the afternoons.
It's not good for my skin OR my nerve endings. I work long days and I need the caffeine boost in the afternoon, so at tea time, I make myself a little pot and enjoy. Doreen says that she has peach, though. That sounds so good--I bet it smells delish, too. I'm going to try that next.

Lisa, I don't ever think I'm an inspiration--it seems I struggle so sometimes! You, on the other hand, are making it seem effortless; YOU are inspiring ME! Uhh, and I hate to mention this. You're going to have to be the one getting up early tomorrow. It's MY day to hug the pillow. You workout extra hard so it's good for both of us, OK? Oh, definitely do some of those FIRM abs for me. A good rep of 10 will be enough to start. :p

OK, I'm changing the bear and hitting the sack.

Love to all,
Erin

[marsh0013]

yaaaaay erin! those steps are great, and good job with staying in your points! a few flex never hurt anybody! and you've got so many left for the week, i can see this week working out very very nicely for you :)

enjoy your extra rest tomorrow! you've earned it :bounce:

[lulu201]

Good morning, everyone. I'm running out the door this morning, so I only have time for a quick :wave2: and plan for the day.

1. Vitamins--done.:D
2. Coffee--working on it.:D
3. Water--will drink at least two full mugs.:D
4. Points--I'm thinking 24. I still haven't lowered myself down to the 22 point range; I'm going to stay where I am unless I plateau.
AP? I'll check my steps and see; if I'm looking high, I might slide myself an activity point.
5. Exercise--:rolleyes: I'm off the treadie today. Tomorrow is a 4 miler.:hyper:

Marcia, where can I find that WW fudge and chocolate chip muffin recipe? Sounds yummy. :teeth:

OK, I'm headed into a day of children, music, and smiles. :D

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, WISH-sis! :sunny:

All those steps are lookin' good! I figured it would take me 30,000 steps to walk the half marathon - you walked practically half that today!! We are gonna be so ready for that half!! :hyper:

Glad to hear the D-Zone is just a memorie for a few weeks! ::yes:: I'm right behind you, walking in your footsteps! :p

Walk tall and proud, WISH-sis! You are living a healthy life!! :sunny:

[Strings]

Good riddance D-Zone! I'm glad you're feeling better. You did a great job on those steps. WOW! Keep up the great work, and enjoy your extra snooze.
Beth

[marsh0013]

hey erin, i got the recipes from ww online. i'll post them here for you :)

chocolate marshmallow fudge

POINTS® value | 2
Servings | 36
Preparation Time | 10 min
Cooking Time | 5 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy

desserts | This chocolate treat is quick and easy to make. And the best part is that it doesn't require fancy candy-making equipment!

Ingredients
1 2/3 cup sugar
2/3 cup fat-free evaporated milk
2 Tbsp reduced-calorie margarine
12 oz semisweet chocolate, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
14 large marshmallow(s)

Instructions
1. Coat an 8- x 8-inch pan with cooking spray.
2. Stir together sugar, evaporated milk and margarine. Bring to a boil in a sauce pan, reduce heat to medium-low and cook 3 minutes, stirring constantly.
3. Stir in chocolate and marshmallows. Remove from heat and stir until smooth.
4. Pour into pan and refrigerate until firm, about 2 hours. Cut into 36 squares and serve. (Leave fudge in refrigerator or freezer for a firmer consistency.)

marcia's notes: it makes pretty small pieces, but they're good for a chocolate fix. i don't really know how they compare in points to a normal piece of chocolate (hershey's or the like), so maybe it's not really worth it, but i feel better eating something that came from a ww recipe :p


mini chocolate-chip cookies

POINTS® value | 1
Servings | 24
Preparation Time | 10 min
Cooking Time | 20 min
Level of Difficulty | Easy

desserts | These adorable cookies will satisfy your chocolate cravings without blowing your POINTS budget.

Ingredients
2 Tbsp butter, softened
2 Tbsp canola oil
1/2 cup dark brown sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/8 tsp table salt
1 large egg white(s)
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 tsp baking soda
3 oz chocolate chips, semi-sweet (about 1/2 cup)

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 375ºF.
2. In a medium bowl, cream butter, oil and brown sugar together. Add vanilla, salt and egg white, and mix together thoroughly.
3. Mix together flour and baking soda. Add chocolate chips and stir to distribute evenly.
4. Drop rounded half-teaspoons of dough onto a nonstick baking sheet. Bake cookies for 4 to 6 minutes, then cool on a wire rack. Yields 2 cookies per serving.

marcia's notes: since the serving size was 2 cookies for 1 point, i just made 12 larger cookies instead of 24 baby ones. and they came out to a really nice size! silly me got confused when at 6 minutes, they didn't look nearly done, and my mom says "well, since you made them bigger, they'll probably take longer" duh! so i don't know the exact time they took, i just kept checking every couple of minutes. and i only ended up getting to eat a few of these. my dad and brothers had a few each. they didn't say anything about the taste till i told them it was a ww recipe, then i got a couple "oh, yeah, they weren't that sweet". oh whatever! i like them!

[marsh0013]

oops, silly me, you asked for the choc chip muffin, not the cookies! ok, here's the muffin recipe:

low-fat chocolate chip muffins

POINTS® value | 3
Servings | 12
Preparation Time | 15 min
Cooking Time | 38 min
Level of Difficulty | Moderate

desserts | Share these sweet, rich muffins with a special friend. They’re perfect for breakfast or dessert.

Ingredients
1 serving cooking spray (5 one-second sprays per serving)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp table salt
1 large egg(s)
1 large egg white(s)
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
2 Tbsp packed light brown sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce
3 Tbsp canola oil
1 tsp vanilla extract
6 Tbsp semi-sweet chocolate chips

Instructions
1. Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat 12 muffin tins with cooking spray.
2. Whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt in a medium bowl. Set aside.
3. Separate the egg, placing the whites in a medium bowl and the yolk in a large bowl. Set the whites aside. Add the brown sugar, applesauce, oil, and vanilla to the yolk. Mix with a wooden spoon until well blended. Add the flour mixture and stir until well combined.
4. With an electric mixer on medium speed, beat the whites until soft peaks form. Add to the batter along with 1/4 cup of the chocolate chips. Stir until well blended.
5. Divide batter equally among the 12 muffin tins. Sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon of chocolate chips (4 to 5 chips) on top of each muffin.
6. Bake until a toothpick inserted in the center of one muffin comes out clean, about 23 minutes. Cool 5 minutes in the tins then remove muffins to a rack to cool 10 minutes more.

marcia's notes: 23 minutes was waaaay too long in my oven. i took them out at about 18, and i still think they cooked a bit too long. my mom tried one and she said that she really liked it. these are pretty small, but very tasty. i have a few left that i put in the freezer, because i dind't feel like having the same thing for breakfast day after day after day. when i feel like having one, i'll just pop it in the microwave.

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

I did do my work out this morning but it was my execise bike day. Tomorrow is FIRM cardio sculpt so I'll be thinking about you as I go up and down on the fanny lifter!

I was so excited when I saw the posting of these great recipes and realized I couldn't have the muffins, cookies or the fudge. Oh well, I'm going to be experimenting with a chocolate peanut butter recipe and some peanut butter cookies over the weekend so perhaps I'll post them if either turns out being tasty.

Keep up the great work and it's nice to have each other to lean on and inspire!

[DoeWDW]

Hey Erin! :wave2:

Hope you had a great Thursday! :sunny:

:hug:

[lulu201]

:cool1: Today is Friday, today is Friday! :cool1: I'm doing the Happy Friday Dance! Even though the weekend is jam-packed with stuff that has to be done, I'm feeling upbeat and looking forward to it.

Yesterday was a long, but good day. I managed to stick to the plan even though I had to buy another box of Girl Scout cookies (this time peanut butter sandwiches). I shared them around the studio and only had 1 (1.3 points, in case you're interested). I'm in a place at the moment where I feel on top of things and stronger than the cookies. A week ago, I couldn't say that; again, it's good to be on the other side of the d-zone! Tonight is Friday, though, and DH and I will go out to dinner while DD is at a sleepover. Friday night's are TOUGH, so I'm making plans for the day that will allow me to eat out and still stay on program. Wish me luck!;)

Here's what I'm thinking:

1. Vitamins--taken a few, will take the rest later.
2. Coffee--done. May skip the Friday WaWa coffee or may just have a small.
3. Exercise--4 miles on the treadie. I just got my training schedule for next week: Sat. 7, Mon. 3, Wed. 4, Fri. 4. I guess I can do it. I'm just grateful to be holding steady at 7. I'm not feeling quite ready for 8 miles yet.
4. Food:
b--Erin's special oatmeal=5, coffee w/cream=1
l--not decided yet, but it has to be light
s--coffee at WaWa?
d--at Ruby Tuesday's, kind of late. By the time DH and I get there, I may be pushing the envelope on my good reasoning skills. . .I may be starved! I think I'll have to cut up some veggies to have to tide me over. I'll also check the R. T. menu on-line and Dottie's Weight Loss Zone to see about points.
5. Water: I'm going to drink gallons!!!!

Marcia: Thanks for the recipes. I'm not sure I'll be able to try them this weekend, but I plan to try them as soon as I can. You're an angel:angel: for sending them my way. Also, I was wondering, do you know about Dottie's Weight Loss Zone?? Go to dwlz.com and check out the restaurant section; you'll be able to bring up lots of places and check out the point values for many different menu selections. It's helpful--just like you!:D

Lisa: I was really needing the ab work yesterday, but what the heck, I'll take the exercise bike! :p I really enjoy your threads on the WISH boards; the new one about "what makes this time different" is thought provoking. I love reading people's responses.

Beth and Doreen: It's so nice of you to stop by and offer hugs and encouragement. We're so blessed to have all of our WISH buddies, aren't we? Thank you for being there.

I'm going to try to get to some journals today. I'm always playing catch up!

:wave2: Erin

[DoeWDW]

Sounds like you'll dance through your busy day! :cool1: You've got a plan, girlfriend, and you'll do great! :sunny:

Good job with those GS cookies! I know what you mean - some days I can have mountains of junk food around me and not want any. Other days (during the d-zone!) even one morsel can haunt me. Glad to hear you're on the other side and feeling strong!

Enjoy your big night out with DH! That couple-time is priceless! ::yes::

Onward we go! :happy1:

[Strings]

Here I always thought that the slogan for GS cookies should have been, "You can;t eat just one." You proved me wrong. Way to go. Have a great time on your date with DH.
Beth:wave:

[marsh0013]

hey erin, you are very welcome for the recipes. and great job avoiding the cookies! i didn't fare as well last night when presented with the same option. but oh well. moving forward :)

and yeah, dwlz is great! i love all the lists she has, and especially all the listings for restaurants. depending on whether or not she has the meal i want listed, i sometimes change what i'm going to order. takes the guesswork out. it can be a life saver!

i just went and looked up ruby tuesday's...a few items listed, don't know if anything on there strikes your fancy, but at least it's a starting point. and look at those desserts! fat free sundaes are a whopping 13 and 13.5! that's just scary. i have decided that desserts are evil :crazy:

[Auntmeme]

Hi Erin, you are looking fine;)

I've been gone so long I didn't recognize you. Walking is agreeing with you and so is life from what I've read. I think you are amazing and yes inspirational. I've thought about you and Dorren and hoped I woud find you both, glad to know you are still here:wave2:

Though I've been struggling, I think it is the winter(hate it):crazy: You sure have been making great progress. 7 mile walk - how long did you spend on the treadmill, that is an awesome accomplishment, so proud of you! Iwant a treadmill too, as I whine to myself. Is that treadmill still in your garage? isn't it cold?

I know walking would be great for me but I'm hibernating. Maybe I was supposed to be a bear and that's why I have such good padding, could it be?

Does that site about restuarants have carb info or just the ww points? We have eaten out every weekend and when the waiter comes I have a brain fart and order the most carb high fat loaded items. Ahhh!

I am so happy to have you as an inspiration. Take good care and I'll say hi again this weekend!

[lulu201]

Saturday, January 24, 2003

Hey, everyone, MeMe's back on the boards!:D What a nice surprise! That site, MeMe, is a WW support site and only has points, I'm afraid.

Yesterday went OK, but I had huge carb cravings all day. We went out for Chinese instead of R. Tuesday--it's closer to home and I could get steamed shrimp. I had some popcorn after that, but threw a good portion of it away and remained within my flex points. Today and tomorrow, I'm going to just keep it light and lean in preparation of Monday's weigh in. I like having weigh in on Monday--it helps to keep me on the straight and narrow on the weekends.

Busy, busy day. Group lesson party and a few make up lessons this morning and afternoon. Tomorrow we go to visit DMIL who just had knee replacement surgery (AGAIN--this is her third surgery on the same knee!!!!). So we'll be on the road after church--quite a busy weekend. Oh, well, maybe we'll have a snow day on Monday?:p

Chin up and off into the day, onward and downward, baby step by baby step.

Erin

Oh, I hope to get around to everyone's journals by the end of the weekend. Bear with me, girls!

[Castillo Mom]

Good morning Erin! You'll be a busy bee today, so don't worry about having to get to everyone's journals, I understand how hectic things can get. Just wanted to drop by and say a quick hello before I start work this morning. Keep taking your baby steps, I'm right there beside you!:D

[DoeWDW]

Dearest princess: Lulu! I see you have many royal duties to attend to this weekend. Your adoring public awaits, m'lady! Shine your inner light and beauty into the world and the world will shine back at you! :sunny:

I don't have much time at the moment (haven't eaten yet today! :eek: ) but I wanted to pop in to see how my royal WISH-sis is doing. Your dinner last night sounds yummy - glad to see you've forsaken the General and stayed within your points!

I'll be back later to check on you! If you don't have too many make-up lessons next weekend, maybe we royal sisters can sneak in a trip to see the King at the mall?? My chauffeur has given the OK! :teeth:

:hug: , sweet WISH-sis!
princess: Doe-Doe :sunny:

[marsh0013]

hey erin, just wanted to stop in to say hello :wave:

hope your busy day went ok, and busy tomorrow as well! and i'll be hoping for that snow day for you on monday for sure. i heard it's going to snow, so i'll try to make sure to send mine from jersey out to pa for ya ;)

[Auntmeme]

Hey Erin,

I made it through the first day, thanks for the support!

I will meet you for walks, I look forward to it:D Did you register already? I really want to do it but those evil thoughts of failure linger.

You are doing so wonderfully - truly awesome! Have a wonderful sunday and it looks light we might have a snow day monday, ahhh.

[lulu201]

Hi, everyone! Thanks for stopping by. :D Uhh, yesterday was, how can I say it? The pits. Not a bad day for me personally, just my healthy living plan. :rolleyes: I forgot the vitamins, didn't drink enough AT ALL, ate pizza, some cookies. . .I'll stop there 'cause it gets pretty ugly.

BUT, it's over. I don't know how it'll impact my weigh in tomorrow--but I think it's best that I face the music, don't you?

Yep, today's a new day, and I'm moving forward.

The plan:

1. Vitamins--I'm going downstairs to take them NOW.
2. Coffee--two and that's it.
3. Exercise--I should be doing the 7 mile today. After we visit DMIL (who lives 75 minutes away), I'll get on the treadie. I don't want to, but I'll make myself. Please, everyone who reads this, send good thoughts my way to give me strength. I'd rather sit and knit instead.
4. Points--what can I say? I have to keep it VERY low after yesterday's pizzafest.
5. Water--I'm blown up like a balloon after all the salt from the pizza cheese. I'm going to have to drink a gallon--no kidding--to get it off me!

Moving forward, not looking backward,
Erin

princess: Doe-Doe, I'm right with you at the Royal Court, but would you rather I drive out there instead and we walk at an inside location closer to you? That way His Royal Highness DH can look at the Royal Sport Chariots whenever his highness desires???

[septbride2002]

Morning Erin. My night wasn't pretty either - check out my journal. But today we are going to have to move forward and work extra hard. I'm sending you all the good vibes I can spare because I need some for me ;)

As far as the walk on the treadie what has our mantra been, "We may not want to do but we have to do it." Just keep thinking that as you walk. Of course you can also picture bashing in Dr. Phil's head with a bat if you want. :p

~Amanda

[A1A1]

Oh Lulu, you are singing my song..........I'd rather be knitting.

I am having a pretty rough time of it myself lo these past few days. I think it is TOM that has captured my body, mind, and energy. We will get them back, though.

You are fine. Everyone needs a pizzafest now and again. At least you know what you feel like , and it may help you to stay the course.

I am sending you lots of pixie dust and good vibes tonight.

Thank you for posting to my journal especially at my saddest moments. It means so much to me.

BTW, I am a violinist and string teacher. You had asked that before. Nice to have that in common with you.

[marsh0013]

hey erin, i hope your walking went well! i had a chance to read a few journals earlier today, just not post, and i was doing my best to send good vibes your way today to help you through the mileage. i'm sure you did it, even if you were just feeling like relaxing. let us know how it went. hope you have a wonderful monday :)

[lulu201]

:( Let me say that again: :( . No, no, no, it was not a good weekend. Well, let me rephrase that. It WAS a good weekend if you think eating junk to your heart's content is fun.:rolleyes: I just could NOT get myself together! Oh, I had a couple of good moments, but mostly bad. I didn't drink water, I didn't take my vitamins, I didn't walk. Oh, gee, I was a mess!!!! BUT, it's over.
Today is a new day. The clippie bear is going to be advanced tonight.

Thank you, A and Amanda and Doreen and Marcia for stopping in. I'm sorry that you have to witness this!!!

Would someone please explain the psychology of all this? I was feeling so confident and sure of myself and then I let myself cross to the dark side of pizza, BK Whopper :eek: , and chicken wings!
What is up with that? Remember how I said I liked Monday weigh ins because they keep you on the straight and narrow???
What happened to all that? Is it some form of sabotage or just simply a matter of a need to relax and enjoy some of the other stuff????? Whatever it is, I'm done now and ready to return to normalcy.

I'm going to avoid weigh-in. I know that's awful, but I just don't want to add insult to injury. I know what the numbers are--I just know it, so I'm going to run and hide. I'm a coward!::yes:: I can't face it! I'm going to "detox" for a couple of days and then put my big toe on the scale to see if it's safe. If it is, I'll go forward.

So, the plan for today:

1. Water. I've already started drinking it.
2. Exercise. This I'm not sure about. I may take a week off from the long distance walk and just have fun this week doing little walks. I don't know yet. I like how I feel after accomplishing the long walk, but I'm not feeling too much joy in it. Maybe a week of two mile jaunts each day will brighten up the work out routine. Hmmm, have to think about this.
3. Food. Oh, my. Well, the good news is that the point bank is full again. This week's strategy is to use the points gradually. A big withdrawal seems to trigger me into binge mode. Not good.
Again, I'll have to think about this. Today, though, the points are going to be low, low, low. Here's the plan:
breakfast--small portion of peanut butter oatmeal w/milk, coffee=4
lunch--soup and crackers=6
dinner--tuna, salad, dressing, olives=7-9
snack--apple, cheese stick=4
dessert--lemon jello w/lite whipped topping=0
Points: approximately 21
A day of healthy food will help me cross back into the :sunny: !
4. Vitamins--I'll take them for sure.
5. Coffee--one this morning and that's it.

So, I'm ready to get back on track. Here I go into Monday, January 26--onward, downward, and cheat free!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

Erin, I'm right there with you! My weekend was awful too and I just cannot seem to get myself back together. :worried:

Looks like you and I have to dust ourselves off and try again, girlfriend. I'm not feeling very confident at the moment. I know your words say you're back on track but are you feeling that confidence? I hope so!

Well, we've been here before and we've always managed to get back on track so I'm relying on that knowledge. We can do this! We LIKE how we feel when we're living healthy so I know we'll get back to all those habits we've been working hard to develop.

I agree with your idea of slowing down a bit on the exercise. We have a long time to get ready for the half - we don't need to be ready by April. Give your body and your mind a break and switch to some other form of exercise or do shorter walks - do something to change the routine and help make it fun again.

:hug: for you, Erin! We'll get back on track together, OK?

[lulu201]

Thanks, Doreen, that's just what I needed. We WILL get back on track today, because we're going to hold each other up. I'm going to log on throughout the day to see how you're doing and to post how I'm doing, so be on the lookout, OK? :D

And as far as being confident--no, my words are trying to help me be brave, but inside I'm always scared that I can't do it and that THIS pizzafest will be the one that sends me back to a 34 pound gain. That won't happen, though, because we're going to get through this together! :happy1:

:hug: and :sunny: --we need 'em both!
Erin

************************************************** **
Edit#1, 8:15 or so in the morning:

Am drinking my coffee, had my oatmeal, two glasses of water and a multivitamin (I'll take the rest later). Off to a good start.

[septbride2002]

Okay gals there must be something in the water because I did awful this weekend as well! I always started out the morning with good intentions and then WHAM! I was making poor choices. Okay ladies gather together for a group hug - :grouphug: and let us start monday on the right foot. Everyone's bear is going to turn over tonight.

Erin I think breaking up your long walk this week is a good idea. Stick to the smaller walks and enjoy them!

~Amanda

[Strings]

Erin (Doreen and Marsha too) Here's a hug for all of you:grouphug: Erin, I'm sorry you had a such a rotten weekend. Avoiding the scale today, good for you. It's only a number. I wish I had avoided mine. I think mixing up you exercise routine is a great idea. If you don't have joy in your exercise, you won't stick with it. That, and the walk is a long way off. Enjoy yourself this week.
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Okay, Erin, it's 10:20 AM - hope all is going well for you so far today! I made it to work through the yucky weather and am going to clear some of these oppressive assignments off my desk.

You're doing great so far, girlfriend! :sunny:

Here's an extra :hug: and some confidence-rich pixie dust :wizard: to help you (and me!) keep going!

I'll be back later to check on you! ::yes::

:wave2:

[lulu201]

Uh-oh, something happened to my relaxing snow day. I ended up running out to teach some lessons--families moved them up into earlier times in the day. DD is sick--maybe with strep--so we're on our way to the dr.

Update is as follows:

1. Had the coffee, a vitamin (still haven't taken the rest), and three glasses of water.
2. Have eaten 12 points so far.
3. No exercise yet, but I haven't given up hope of a two mile fun walk. Maybe during Oprah?

I'm hanging in there. I've been tempted many times, but I think of Doreen and Amanda trying, too, and that has helped a lot.

Erin

[DoeWDW]

I hope the doctor's visit was helpful and DD is on the road to recovery.

Hang in there, Erin!!! The work day is winding down and we're in the home stretch! You can make it, WISH-sis!! :happy1:

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

First let me give you a big {{{{{hug}}}}}. I am finally able to catch up with you and see how you are doing. I'm sorry you didn't have the healthy eating weekend you wanted. I admire your attitude to brush yourself off and start back from where you are. I see you have support from our fellow WISH buddies to keep you going and that's so important. You are in my thoughts and I know your day and your week will get better. No matter what that nasty mean old scale says. Take care!

[lulu201]

Thanks, Lisa and Doreen. I'm on my way to changing that bear clippie, I can feel it. I did have an extra cup of coffee, though. DD asked to stop at WaWa for a slurpee after the dr.; I got a small cup. Hey, it wasn't a donut, so I guess it's OK.:p With the creamer, that brings my point total to 13 so far today. I made the jello for my treat tonight, but I haven't taken the rest of my vitamins or had my walk yet, but I WILL!

'Til later,
Erin

[Strings]

Erin,

I hope DD feels better soon. Monday's almost over, girlfriend. Tuesday will be better.
Beth

[Auntmeme]

Hey what happened? I swear I didn't steal the pixie dust:p

Well it looks like things are picking up yeah. Monday is almost done so onward and downward to another day.

I registered myself for the 1/2 marathon but I think my dh & ds will go and then we'll head out on the cruise, yahoo!

I can barely make 2 miles right now, so you are the treadie queen and I am your loyal servant:teeth:

Question about the cheat free clippie, you don't put it back to 0? if you miss a day(give in to the evil junk) then you just don't change it? I want to be sure I'm counting correctly, though I need to stay cheat free to fit into those skinny jeans:wave2:

[A1A1]

Hope your dd feels better soon. Winter months are just so hard. Hard to get motivated to exercise, hard to get out of the warm covers, hard to stay healthy.


Have a great Tuesday.

[DoeWDW]

Erin, I'm gonna make it!! I already changed my bear's number because I'm finished eating for the night!! Thanks for the support, WISH-sis :happy1: - glad we could help each other through the day!!

Now, I hope you're soon ready to change your bear's number! I'm sending extra good thoughts your way!! :sunny: :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hey, here's the latest update. I'm in my sweats and getting ready to get on the treadie for a quick two miler. Then I'm going to take those darn vitamins! Had a salad for dinner--doing OK with points. Dessert will be my jello around 8:30.

THANK YOU, EVERYONE!:grouphug: You made it possible for me to get myself back on program for today. Special thanks to you, WISH-sis, Doe, for checking on me throughout the day. It helped so much.

Night all,
Erin

[septbride2002]

Erin all 3 of us made it! PARTY! I'm so proud of us! Way to go girl! I would have had the extra coffee too ;)

Aunt Meme to answer your question if I may - we use the Bear to keep track of the cheat free days for the month. So if you cheat then you don't get to add a day to it. I guess in February we will return them to zero and start all over. After all being cheat free 19 out of 26 days is still an accomplishment and that should be celebrated!

~Amanda

[Castillo Mom]

I've just gotta get me one of those cute Bears! Hey Erin, got the Pilates tape. You and Doreen (as well as my other Wish buddies) have been an inspiration for me to get moving! I admire that you still have energy at the end of the day to hop on that treadmill. You go girl! Goodnight!:D

[DoeWDW]

We're ready for another day, aren't we, Erin? :sunny:

If it's icy there, please be careful if you're headed out. I stayed home today and will only be venturing out on foot. The van can stay in its warm garage home! :teeth: No sense having it slip and slide into a pole! :eek:

Let's make it another healthy living day, girlfriend! I'll be right beside you! Today will be easier since we have one cheat free day behind us. :happy1:

Be good to you today, and take extra good care of your DD - hope she's feeling better this morning! ::yes::

:hug:

[lulu201]

Yep, I'm ready for another cheat free day! The jello is made, the sweats are on, the vitamins have been taken. . .I'm on my way!:Pinkbounc That said, however, I want to make it clear that I'm relying HEAVILY on my WISH buddies! Maybe it's winter, maybe it's just stress, but I don't feel very confident right now. I'm going to lift it all up in prayer and try to keep myself centered.

The other day A mentioned the book, The Purpose Driven Life; I got my copy out and have started to re-read it. I'm also ordering the Max Lucado book, Traveling Light. I just feel the need to keep myself centered on what's really important right now. Part of it has to do with our little pm talk the other day, Doreen, and another has to do with news I got yesterday about a friend of mine--she was diagnosed with breast cancer on Friday. She has two young children. My heart is so heavy thinking about her.

So, along with my healthy living goals, my focus today is on appreciating the simple, mundane tasks that are ahead of me. The joy is in the moment.

1. Vitamins--:D .
2. Coffee--one is enough.
3. Exercise--a fun two miler is good enough for today.
4. Food--breakfast was my special peanutbutter and banana oatmeal :p with coffee and cream (5). I haven't planned the rest yet.
5. Water--I have to really push this today. Only one glass so far.

:grouphug: Amanda, Doreen, Lisa and Lisa, Beth, Marcia, MeMe, A--you guys mean so much to me. Thank you for the encouragement and the smiles.

[Auntmeme]

Hi Erin, You are wonderful and inspirational!

Hugs to you :hug: I'll have to look up those books. sometimes it would be easier to crawl under a rock but with your faith and friends we can make it through. Sorry to hear about your friend, she'll be in my prayers.

For you on your treadmill :wave: Have a great day!

[honeymo78]

Erin,
It looks like you are doing a good job beating the winter blues and staying on track. One day at a time is a good way to stay focused. I think yesterday was just one for bad news. I just found out yesterday that one of my close friends has breast cancer and she's already had some kind of surgery. I was very upset that it happened to her (she's only 23) and that I had to hear it from a mutual friend, she wouldn't tell me herself. That made me feel worse that I was partly angry with her - she's the one going through the tough time, not me. I'll keep your friend in my thoughts too.

Keep warm and be careful when/if you go out - it's gonna be a yucky one today.

[marsh0013]

hey erin, here's a :hug: of support. i know you may not be feeling confident right now, but i have nothing but confidence in you! you can do this, you can stay on track, and you will be rolling over that clippie tonight :)

what is this special peanut butter and banana oatmeal you speak of? can you let me in on your little secret, because those are 3 of my favorite things :p . just mix in some pb and banana w/cooked oatmeal? any specific amount? you've got me very very interested :crazy:


i hope you have a great day today erin! you can accomplish the goals you set out for yourself. one day at a time :sunny:

[lulu201]

Here's my afternoon update:

Water--about 4-5 glasses done.
Points--at about 9 so far (breakfast and cheesestick snack), but lunch is soon. It'll be egg salad on a little toasted mini-bagel. Should equal about 7 points.
Exercise--finished my quickie two miler in 29:00. It felt good.

Hi, Marcia! OK, here's my peanut butter oatmeal special: 1/4 cup quick oats (1), 1/3 cup low-fat milk (1), a little over a 1/3 cup of water, 1/2 banana (1), and splenda to taste. Microwave for 2 minutes. Add 1 tsp. peanut butter (1) and stir. Mmmmmmmmm, if you're a pb fan, it's a nice warm way to start the day for 4 points. Kinda like a cookie in a bowl.:p

OK, I'm off to have lunch and get to work. Thanks, Stephanie and Marcia, for stopping by. I ran over and checked on you, Steph.

Erin

[honeymo78]

Yum - that PB oatmeal sounds yummy. I think I'll have to try it when I get some more bananas. My apple cinnamon is the Acme brand instant oatmeal. I just use water so it's only 2 pts, okay actually it would be 2.25 but since I round up on so many other things I just count this as 2.

Still no word from the mall but I've got my cell phone all charged and I'll make Dan pick me up in his SUV if it gets really bad.

[Strings]

Erin,

I'm so sorry to hear about your friend. I hope it was caught in the early stages. They have come a long way with treatment options/success. How is she coping? There are some great support groups out there. You, your friend, and her family will be in my prayers. You are always in my thoughts. Hey, try to stay warm today.

Beth:wave: