Doreen's New Way of Life (comments are welcome)

[wilderness01]

Happy Sunday Doe. Hope you have had a magical :wizard: relaxing weekend.

[Blueeyes101817]

hope you had a great weekend!!!!!

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday I earned all smilies except exercise. Today I shoveled snow so I'm counting that! :p

Today:
1. Devotions - I'm reading sermons by Paul Tillich. Today's dealt with the inequalities of our world. Very deep but I enjoy the extra brain exercise.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - 3 mugs down so far.
4. Healthy eating - B = apple w/ PB, L = lc wrap w/ tuna salad & mozzarella cheese, D will be chicken parmesan and a salad. I FINALLY got to the grocery store and the house is stocked with yummy fruits, veggies, meats, etc. In addition, I bought NO JUNK! I also have a menu plan but can't remember it right now - will post it later.
5. Exercise - shoveled snow for 1/2 hour this morning and worked up a good sweat. I actually enjoyed the physical activity, listening to the birds chatter and laughing about all the bunny paw prints in the snow. They were hopping everywhere!

So far, I helped at Sunday School, shoveled snow, made my menu plan & grocery list, did the grocery shopping and then settled in for a read and nap. Now I'm headed to the kitchen to make dinner and to prep foods for this week. You know, celery does not get eaten (in this house anyway) unless it is cleaned and cut up and clearly visible on the top shelf of the fridge. :p It has been a really good day! :sunny:

[lizdotcom99]

Way to go Doreen.....sounds that you are having a GREAT day!!! Keep up the good work.

I am the same way with celery....I have to clean it as soon as I buy it otherwise it is too much work to grab as a snack.... :guilty:

:cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday I earned.......ALL 5 SMILIES!!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc
I'm going to try to make it 2 days in a row!

I only have a moment - have a big meeting at 10 AM to prep for.

Today: (edit 5:20 PM)
1. Devotions - done.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - finished my fourth mug.
4. Healthy eating - B = apple w/ PB, L = lc ham & cheese wrap & mashed sweet potatoes, D will be a big salad w/ meat & cheese.
5. Exercise - my gym clothes are packed in a bag in my car. I'm going to go right after work, before I head home. Hey, if it works for Amanda, maybe it will work for me too! Update: I did 16 minutes on the treadmill at the health club. That darned sun just won't stay up long enough! It's OK, though, because that's 16 more minutes of exercise than I WOULD have gotten if I came straight home! :p

[lulu201]

:banana: Don't you love how great you feel when you've got all your smilies! :banana: Good for you, Doreen!

Make today another good day, girlfriend!

:goodvibes , :sunny: , and :hug: to you,

Erin :shamrock:

[sharoncity]

Doe - you are doing very well. WTG!!!! :cool1: Doesn't it feel wonderful to start your Monday with the house in order, shopping done, all that good stuff?! :goodvibes

I also go with the exercise before going home routine. Once I get home, it is next to impossible to motivate myself to go back out and exercise. :confused3 But you have a plan for today and you are all set! Woo-Hoo! :banana:

Have a great week Doe! It looks like you are off to am awesome start!

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

[septbride2002]

princess: Doe is kicking butt and taking names! :worship: Sounds like you had a very productive Sunday! Good for you! I know it feels great to have those 5 smiley days! I can't wait to see your menu plan - maybe it will help me with mine!

~Amanda

[MelanieC]

Hi Doreen,

Great job getting all that accomplished yesterday! :worship: Woo hoo! Have fun with your workout after work!

[wilderness01]

Good for you on earning all your smilies! Have a good workout tonight. :flower:

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

Way to go Doe!! Earning all your smiles! :goodvibes You are doing such a wonderful job! Keep it up!

:wizard: Have a wonderful day tomorrow!

Gail

[Tera]

Hey Doe - Can't seem to keep up with journals these days :guilty: Great job on getting those 5 :sunny: days and here's to getting more ::yes:: ::yes:: ::yes::

[kelyn39]

Looks like you're doing great Doe!! Glad I could catch up on your progress:)

Funny thing you said the other day about the celery you bought. I plan on doing the same thing tomorrow, I have to clean and cut it up. LOL and to remind myself to do this, I left it on the top shelf:) Funny how we all tend to forget food in those bottom drawers!

[DoeWDW]

A new month! WOW! 2005 is just flying by!

I earned all 5 smilies yesterday. I'm starting to feel a bit thinner even though the scale is very happy at 151. :rolleyes: I know it will move but it sure would be nice to be back in the 140s. ::yes:: I'll just have to keep piling up those 5 smilie days and leave the scale no choice! :badpc: (insert scale instead of PC).

Today will be a busy day at work. Then the family is off to the chiropractor, followed by a quiet evening at home, and bedtime at 9:30 PM.

Today:
1. Devotions - talked about forgiveness.
2. Pills - took them.
3. Water - 2 mugs down.
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, L = lc turkey & cheese wrap & a banana, D will be chili.
5. Exercise - none yet

[lulu201]

Good Morning, WISH-sis! :sunny: Congratulations on those 5 smilies :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc . Keep it up and those 140s will be here before you know it!

Did you cut up your veggies like you said you would? How was the gym? What did you do yesterday as far as exercising? Did Todd like going?

Here's to another good day of healthy living! :drinking1

Erin :shamrock:

[septbride2002]

You're right - just keep getting 5 smiles and that scale will move in the right direction! You are only 2 lbs from being in the 140's! You could lose that this week if everyday is a 5 smile day! Make a plan and stick to it!

You're the best!

~Amanda

[toystoryduo]

Good morning Doe!

I agree with Amanda! If you keep on having those 5 :teeth: days, you will see the 140s soon! Keep it up, Doe! I know you can do it! :cheer2:

Have a wonderful day! :sunny:

[pettyone]

::yes:: I'll just have to keep piling up those 5 smilie days and leave the scale no choice! :badpc: (insert scale instead of PC).


:cheer2:

Here's to 5 smile days!! What does the scale know, anyway????

[Blueeyes101817]

you are doing a wesome--you will be in those 140s in no time!!

[kelyn39]

Doing awesome Doe!!! The 140's are coming up quick I know it!! Good luck today:)

[Strings]

Hi Doe,

Sorry I haven't been around. You have been doing a phenomenal job earning all your smilies. I am so impressed with how organized you are this week.

Keep up the great work and the 140's will be here in no time.
Take care,
Beth

[geetey]

You Go, Doe! I like the determination in your post! You will get those 5 smilie days and that scale WILL start moving! And if that hammer doesn't work, just let me know and I will pull out the whip. ::yes::

Keep up the good work!

[DoeWDW]

Thanks to all for stopping by and for your words of encouragement! :grouphug: You keep me going! ::yes::

Yesterday I earned smilies for devotional and pills. I missed my water smilie by about 10 oz. I had 2 bowls of granola cereal (1 at 5 PM & 1 at 10 PM) which isn't exactly low carb, but not too bad - no binging or grazing. I did absolutely nothing in the way of exercise.

My smilie-earning has paid off. The scale was down a pound this morning! Talk about motivation!! WOO HOO! I promptly packed my workout clothes for a trip to the health club on the way home from work.

I'm also motivated because of my clothes. I own 4 pr. of pants that fit at the moment. One is a pair of jeans that are quickly developing holes and will be unwearable any day now. I NEED to fit in my smaller clothes because I have no intention of buying more size 14 pants!

Today: (edit 5:30 PM)
1. Devotional - The LORD says, "I have engraved you on the palms of my hands; your walls are ever before me." -Isaiah 49:16 (NIV)
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - on my fourth mug.
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, L = an apple w/ PB & some mashed sweet potatos, snack = 2 string cheese, D will be the chili I didn't make last night :p
5. Exercise - workout clothes are in the car for a trip to the health club on my way home from work. I'm going to alternate walking 4 minutes at 4 mph and jogging 1 minute at 5 mph on the treadmill - thanks for the idea, Melanie! Update - just back from the health club. 27:12 for 2 miles. That includes warm-up & cool-down and alternating 2 minutes at 5.2 mph and 2 minutes at 4 mph. I'm sweaty & stinky, but boy do I feel good! :Pinkbounc

It's gonna be a good day! :sunny:

[lizdotcom99]

Doreen,

Keep up the great work!! I hear ya about not being able to do this without everybody else. It is great to have such a wonderful support system. I know that is a HUGE part of my success as well.

Have a great work out. Sounds like you have a good plan there. And it feels so good when exercising becomes a habit!!

Keep up the great work......hopoing for another 5 smilie day for you!!!

:cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[Auntmeme]

Happy Wednesday Doreen :sunny: congrats on all the smiles & here's to another smiley day :wizard: Hoorah on the loss also :cheer2:
You are doing great with the gym, so motivated & ready to go. I always had a hard time going after work, too tired:(being in bed at 9:30 must be the solution ;)

[septbride2002]

Morning Doe! YEAH! One more pound and you are going to be back in the 140's - you'll be ready for that tankini in no time! Speaking of which I need to try mine on at the end of the week and see how I am doing. :)

I am so proud of you for putting exercise into your plan - and I think the program you are on sounds good. Keep it up and you are going to be back at goal! Whats on the menu today? Do you have a plan?

~Amanda

[Lizzydoll73]

Hi Doreen - Thanks for stopping by my journal. I have been able to read some of your latest pages but I am way to slow of a reader to get through your entire journal. ;) It sounds like you are doing a great job and the 140's are just around the bend for you. I think it is great that your DH joined the gym with you. My DH has been saying he would start working out for the past month now and has not even looked at the exercise equipment. :rolleyes: Have a great day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

:cold: Did you know that today was going to be such a cold day? This caught me totally off guard! :cold: Here's some :sunny: to warm you up. I appreciate all that you sent me--I'm feelin' the chill, let me tell ya.

So, you are going to the gym tonight. I hope you have a great walk. Don't you feel all powerful and strong when you're done? I love that feeling.

I say that we shop around for some motivational clothing this weekend. I like how Amanda's trying on her tankini every week. . .I want to do something like that, too. Are you up for it? One size smaller? We could get some Skinny Jeans like MeMe or maybe some athletic wear?

Gotta get back to work. Enjoy your afternoon, Doreen. Drink some water or better yet, some decaf tea so you're warm and cozy.

Erin :shamrock:

[Tera]

Hey Doe - Great job on losing yet another pound!!! I can't wait to have my ticker down where yours is :teeth: Keep those sunny smilies coming and you'll be in the 140's before long.

Have a GREAT day!!!!

[geetey]

WOO HOO, Doe! Another pound down! Congrats on that loss!!
Keep sticking with your plan and you will be in the 140s - you are SO close!

[keenercam]

Doreen-- It has been a pleasure reading through your journals and seeing you come through some down times. The support here is amazing, isn't it? Your 5 smilie day quest is so inspirational. You are doing a phenomenal job. How are you going to feel when you hit the 140s? I hope you have some huge personal reward in the works. You really deserve it. You have come such a long way! Thank you for being such an inspiration for the rest of us. I am LOVING seeing you succeed!

[Strings]

Congrats on another pound gone Doreen!

That is awesome, and the 140's are right around the corner with all the exercise you are doing. I am so excited to see the sun is still out after 5PM. Soon you'll have a lot more freedom. Spring is coming!

Have a great workout Doe,
Beth

[lulu201]

Hey, you just say the word and we'll be walking instead of shopping. Whatever you want to do is fine with me. Keep me posted!

Erin

[DoeWDW]

I earned all 5 smilies yesterday! :cloud9:

I went straight to the health club and did 2 treaddie miles in 27:12. I think they keep the locker room chilly to discourage any nakies!! :laughing: Dinner was an lc wrap w/ turkey, mozzarella, leafy greens and 1000 Island dressing, and a little ramen noodle soup, followed by 2 Dove dark chocolate Promises. It wasn't perfectly lc but it was a reasonable meal with no overeating, so I'm claiming the smilie!

Today is a busy workday with no plans for this evening! Relaxing sounds good to me. I'll save my strength because I drive to work tomorrow. I know driving is no big deal for many people but it takes extra energy for me.

Today: (edit 1:15 PM)
1. Devotions - When we read the Bible daily, it sheds light on our path. This is an area I need to work on.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - on mug 3.
4. Healthy eating - B = apple w/ PB, L = lc wrap w/ turkey, mozzarella, greens & 1000 island dressing, snack will be string cheese and yogurt w/ almonds, D will be chicken.
5. Exercise - rest day.

[lulu201]

Did I miss your clippie party? If I did, I'm having another one! :jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1: :rockband: :rockband:


:cheer2: WAY TO GO, DOREEN! Keep up the great work! :cheer2:

Hugs,
Erin

[septbride2002]

Your low carb wraps sound good! Do you get them in a store or are you making them yourself? I might need to add low carb tortillas to my shopping list because you are making me hungry!

Enjoy your rest day - I know you will earn all your smiles today!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Hee hee, you didn't miss it, Erin. I just didn't make a big deal about changing from "member" to "5 pounds".

Thanks for the party!! :teeth:

[MelanieC]

Woo hoo Doreen!

I'm gonna help you celebrate even if you didn't make a big deal.

:jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1: :cheer2: :cheer2: :banana: :banana:

Great job!

I know mine is for a different reason, but I need energy driving too an from work too. I drive on the Northeast extension of the turnpike and I swear I'm exhausted afterwards. The people are so agressive and there is so much break slamming that I'm wiped afterwards. Today was the second time this week I was stuck in traffic driving to work. 2 accidents! I know it's not the same, but I can say I know what it's like to get to work and needing a nap!

[sharoncity]

Doe, you are really doing awesome!!!! You came back from the marathon and you just OWN this healthy living thing!!! :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc WTG! I need to take a page from your book and "just do it!" Thanks for reminding me of that. :rolleyes:

I hope you have a great Friday. Sending you :wizard: for an uneventful drive tomorrow.

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

[Strings]

:thewave: :dancer: :thewave:

Leave it to you Doe, to be :ssst: about a shiny new clippie. We'll celebrate your success,

You are doing a fabulous job. Amanda is right. Your wrap sounds yummy. I'll say a prayer for your drive tomorrow.

Take care,
Beth

[toystoryduo]

Way to go, Doe! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: :cool1: Congratulations on your 5 pound loss! Woohoo! :cheer2:

Have a great day tomorrow! :sunny:

[DoeWDW]

I earned smilies yesterday for devotions and pills. :rolleyes: I was close with water and healthy eating but not quite at smilie level. :p It was a rest day for exercise.

We got an inch or 2 of snow overnight but I made the drive in without incident. I'm still a bit keyed up though - am trying to breath deep and relax.

It should be a busy day at work but I've got a tough assignment I've been successfully avoiding. I NEED to buckle down and get it done but I'd rather run and hide. :( I have to present it at a meeting on Monday so there's no time left to put it off. Combine that stress with driving and I can see why I'm feeling overly anxious. I WILL NOT TURN TO FOOD! Junky food will not help me feel any better. I must face this project head on and get through it. The sooner I do, the sooner I'll feel better. My words SOUND good but I just don't FEEL the conviction.

I'm going to jump right in and get started. I'll reward myself with a DIS break later this morning and get to some other journals.

Today:
1. Devotions - I am God's messenger for people who are feeling empty and alone.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - 1/2 down, another 32 oz to go.
4. Healthy eating - B = mashed sweet potatoes, snack = apple w/PB, L = a buger (no bun), no ideas about dinner at the moment - gotta get through work first.
5. Exercise - YES! I'm leaving work early and am going to either walk/run outside or go to the health club. Need to work off some of this stress so I can enjoy my weekend! ::yes::

[Strings]

:grouphug: Doreen,

You've handled big projects that stressed you out before, and you will do it again this time. Remember you are a WISH princess: . Baby steps and breaking the task down into steps seem to help last time. Give it a try this time.

I will say a prayer for your day and ride home today Doreen. You can do this. :Pinkbounc :Pinkbounc :cheer2: :cheer2:

Have a wonderful and relaxing weekend Doe.
Beth

[lulu201]

:flower: Good morning, WISH-sis. Remember: you're strong, you're tough, and you're not alone. Just like Beth said, you've felt this pressure before and you've been able to manage it. You've got the resources to deal with this project and you will accomplish what you need to do. You can do it.

Darn! Work pressures on a Friday. . .who came up with that idea? :rolleyes:
Don't the big honchos know it's time to start the Friday party? What are they thinking????? :confused3 Oh, well, we'll start it when your work day's done, hon, and then we'll all celebrate together. :cool1:

OK, so I'm sendin' ya a PM about this weekend. We gotta get our thoughts together here. I'm totally with you about the walking: :rockband: "I'm walking in sunshine :sunny: , yeah, yeah. And don't it feel good?" We gotta get out there and do it!

[keenercam]

Hey, Doreen! Just popping in to tell you I've said a prayer for you for your project today, that you will get it done with plenty of time to start thinking about your weekend. Just imagine how great it will feel to have that weight off your shoulders. I don't even know you that well and I KNOW you can do it.
I hope driving home is a lot less stressful for you than driving in was. If your weather is anything like ours, it should be sunny and warm enough to have the conditions improve as the day goes on. So, don't sweat that at all!
Have a good day! Know there are a lot of people out here who are thinking of you, sending their prayers and support and WISHing you the best!

[toystoryduo]

Hey Doe,

You know that all of your WISH friends are right behind you :cheer2: you on! You can get this project done! I just know you can do it! Think of how good you will feel when it is completed. :cloud9:

Prayers have been said for a wonderful day and an excellent trip home. Take good care of you! :grouphug:

[septbride2002]

Morning Doe - I know that anxious feeling - I had it yesterday - sucks! I'm sending you as much :wizard: as I can spare today ;) Just take deep breaths and do one thing at a time - reward yourself with something that is NOT food!! Think how great those pants are going to feel when you hit the 140's!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

Thanks to all for the encouragement! I can feel all the love and good wishes surrounding me and it is definitely helping!

I've accomplished some of my work, but still have a long way to go. I've decided to leave an hour and a half early and take some of it home with me, where I can work on it at my own pace. That way, I can head home and beat the traffic, get in a quick walk/run either outside or at the health club, and then spend some time on my work project when I'm more relaxed.

I'm proud to say I'm still on plan for the day and it looks like I'll earn all my smilies. That would be a major victory!

EDIT: 5 PM
I just got back from the health club - 4 treadie miles in 55:40. I feel great!! :cloud9:

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

Have a great weekend Doe! :flower:

Way to go on the treddie! :cool1:

[NCRedding]

Yea Doe!! You sound so much better than the last time I read your journal!! Keep up the good work.

[geetey]

EDIT: 5 PM
I just got back from the health club - 4 treadie miles in 55:40. I feel great!! :cloud9:

:banana: Wooo Hoooo, Doe!! :banana:
Your time is just getting better and better! WAY TO GO! :cheer2:
Have a great weekend and enjoy your walk with Tracy. :)

[lulu201]

:flower: Woo-hoo! You're a walking MACHINE! :cool1: :flower:

Oh, and by the way, did I mention

:jumping1: :jumping1: :jumping1: :rockband: :rockband:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DOREEN!

:bday: :bday: :bday: :thewave: :thewave: :cake: :cake: :banana:

Let's get the party started! You're such a special person, Doreen, I hope you have an extra-special day.

:hug:,
Erin :shamrock:

[DoeWDW]

Thanks for the party, Erin! :hug:

I earned all 5 smilies again yesterday! princess:

Today is my birthday! I'm 41 years old today. You know, I'm really liking the person I'm becoming! It has been a great year, capped off by doing the half marathon at Disney. This year will be even better - I have so much that I'm looking forward to! ::yes:: Today I will be celebrating me - where I've been, where I am now, and all the wonderful places I'm going. My heart is just overflowing, thinking of all the many wonderful blessings in my life. My WISH friends are at the top of the list! :grouphug: :grouphug: :grouphug:

This morning will be the usual - laundry, checkbook, etc. This afternoon we'll gather with my family at my parents' house for my birthday dinner. This evening? Well, DS has to work so DD, DH and I will be at home. Who knows what mischief we'll get into! ;)

I hope everyone has a wonderful day! :sunny:

[Strings]

:bday: :cake: :cake: :cake: :bday: :bday: :bday: :cake: :bday: :cake: :dancer: :drinking1 Happy Bithrday Doreen!!!

I just needed to pop in and wish you a happy bday. I hope it is filled with laughter and love. The dancer is as close as I could get to a cabana boy with a margarita.

Have a wonderful day,
Beth

[toystoryduo]

:bday:to you!
:bday:to you!
:bday:dear Doreen!
:bday: to you!

Happy Birthday Doe! I pray that today is a wonderful day for you! Thank you so much for the seeds of encouragement that you plant in my journal and in my heart. May the harvest that you reap be a blessed one! :grouphug:

You have accomplished so much in the past year! I am so proud of you! I can't wait to see what you will accomplish in the year to come!

God's best to you today princess: Doe and every day! :sunny:

[kelyn39]

Happy Birthday Doe!! :bday: Here's to another great year! :drinking1 You're doing great:)

Kelly

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

:cool1: :banana: :jumping1: :dancer: :rockband: :bday: :thewave: :cake: :music: :tongue: :rose: :cheer2: So, this is where Doe's birthday party is!!! Happy Birthday Doreen!!!

[DoeWDW]

Thank you all for the wonderful birthday party!! :love:

Yesterday wasn't exactly on plan but I did make the best choices I could. There was no binging or emotional eating, so I'd call it a success! :cool1: I only earned 2 smilies but that's OK.

I've already been to the grocery store this morning. I have to help at Sunday School. Then it's off to meet Erin for a healthy lunch and a stroll. After that, we head home to chaperone DS and 5-6 friends as they hang out at our house for the evening. Another busy day!

Today, it's back to business.
1. Devotions - not yet.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - 1 glass
4. Healthy eating - B = granola & milk. L will be a Subway lc wrap. D will be at home - plenty of stuff in the house since I just returned from the store. :)
5. Exercise - will walk at least 2 miles today.

[septbride2002]

:rockband: :bday: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!! :bday: :rockband:

Sorry I missed the party yesterday - I hope you had an awesome time! Susan and I went for a 4.2 mile walk yesterday and it felt so good! I hope you and Erin enjoy your walk today!

~Amanda

[septbride2002]

Where are you? Are you sleeping in today or are you busy at work? :grouphug:

~Amanda

[Strings]

Hi Doreen,

I hope you had a phenomenal bday weekend. I am also hoping that the presentation goes smoothly today. You are a wonderful person and employee. They are lucky to have you. Remember that.
Have a good day,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good afternoon, all! :sunny:

Yesterday I had a wonderful time walking & chatting with Erin in the 50+ degree temps and sunny weather - what a gift in February! :cloud9: I earned two smilies for taking my pills and for walking almost 3 miles, but was off plan in all other respects.

I woke up with a horrible headache, achey muscles and fatigue. I called work and told them I wouldn't be in. Then I went back to bed and slept until past noon! :p

I just finished reading "Marathoning for Mortals" and have entered my training schedule into my Palm. I'm going to use the walk/run training schedule which means that during the half I'll be walking 3 minutes and then running 2 minutes.

Today:
1. Devotions - God is evident in the vastness and in the details of nature.
2. Pills - meds yes, vitamins not yet.
3. Water - not nearly enough. I slept all morning so it would be hard to catch up. Instead I'll make my goal 3 16 oz mugs. I'm working on the first.
4. Healthy eating - ummmm, not yet. B and L were off plan. There's a lot of junk food in the house at the moment.
5. Exercise - My schedule calls for 40 minutes of walking 3 minutes and running 1 minute (I think). I'll have to double check the walk/run amounts, but I know there are 40 minutes involved! :p

[Auntmeme]

sorry to hear you are under the weather and stayed home, looks like your feeling better already :) I never read that book but alot of other wishers have, do you feel you need to change your training from last time? still not sure about OC half but you girls are so sweet with your offer, thanks :lovestruc I'll let you know.

Stay on plan to get those smilies and throw out the junk food!

[septbride2002]

:sunny: Good afternoon, all! :sunny:

Yesterday I had a wonderful time walking & chatting with Erin in the 50+ degree temps and sunny weather - what a gift in February! :cloud9: I earned two smilies for taking my pills and for walking almost 3 miles, but was off plan in all other respects.

I woke up with a horrible headache, achey muscles and fatigue. I called work and told them I wouldn't be in. Then I went back to bed and slept until past noon! :p

I just finished reading "Marathoning for Mortals" and have entered my training schedule into my Palm. I'm going to use the walk/run training schedule which means that during the half I'll be walking 3 minutes and then running 2 minutes.

Today:
1. Devotions - God is evident in the vastness and in the details of nature.
2. Pills - meds yes, vitamins not yet.
3. Water - not nearly enough. I slept all morning so it would be hard to catch up. Instead I'll make my goal 3 16 oz mugs. I'm working on the first.
4. Healthy eating - ummmm, not yet. B and L were off plan. There's a lot of junk food in the house at the moment.
5. Exercise - My schedule calls for 40 minutes of walking 3 minutes and running 1 minute (I think). I'll have to double check the walk/run amounts, but I know there are 40 minutes involved! :p

I'm glad you are starting to feel better. I was a little worried about you this morning and thought - if I don't see her post by dinner I am going to call her! The day is not a total wash! You can still eat a healthy dinner and do your exercise. Don't let an off plan breakfast and lunch spoil the rest of the day. I always do that and then I am aggravated with myself! :earboy2:

~Amanda

[geetey]

Doreen, I am sorry I missed the party, but
princess: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! princess:

You are right - you have made wonderful strides this past year. Just think of what the upcoming year holds for you! I hope you are feeling much better now. :)

[lizdotcom99]

Add me to the belated Happy Birthday wishers!!! Sorry to hear you had a rough day today. Hope the sleep felt good and fixes you right up. How did your workout go? Hope it chased your headache away!! Cna't wit to hear that you get all of your smilies tomorrow!! Keep up the good work! :cool1: :cool1: :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

I'm up and dressed, all ready to go to work, but it looks like another day off for me. My carpool driver has to take off to be with her sick daughter. Both my kids were home yesterday, and today DD is ready to go back, but DS still needs to be at home. I'm still not feeling 100% either.

Even though I'm at home, I'll be working on my project for work. Today I'm ready to face it. ::yes:: Haven't touched it yet, though and its already past 10 AM.

Today I will be earning those smilies! (edit 10:30 AM)
1. Devotions - All about asking God to help me use my time wisely and create a simpler, more peaceful life.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - working on 1st mug.
4. HEALTHY eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, snack = 2 cookies :rolleyes:
5. Exercise - need to do a 30 minute crosstraining session.

[Lizzydoll73]

Hi Doreen - Happy belated birthday! Sorry I missed it. Hope you and your kids get well soon. Have a great day! :sunny:

[pettyone]

I'm up and dressed, all ready to go to work, but it looks like another day off for me. My carpool driver has to take off to be with her sick daughter. Both my kids were home yesterday, and today DD is ready to go back, but DS still needs to be at home. I'm still not feeling 100% either.


:wave: Hope you all feel better soon...bummer!

[sharoncity]

Hope everyone is feeling better real soon! healing :wizard: for the whole household!!!! ;)

Hope you got lots accomplished on that work project too!

TTFN- Sharon :sunny:

[geetey]

Happy Fat Tuesday, Doe! You probably picked a good day to skip going in to work. Lots of Mardis Gras treats could have been there.

I hope you were able to make a lot of headway on your project. Sometimes it is easier to get more done at home because there are not as many interruptions.

Sending some :wizard: for that bug to go away and leave you with a healthy household!

[Strings]

:hug: Doe,

I hope you are feeling better tonight. Good for you staying home. I hope that you were able to accomplish a ton on your project. Get some rest tonight.

Take care,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday I earned smilies for devotions, pills and water, so it wasn't a total waste. :p

Today, I sent both DS & DD to school but I'm still at home. Did NOTHING on my work project yesterday but today it will be peaceful and quiet in the house (except for the puppy barking at the squirrels, bunnies & birds who DARE to encroach on our property :teeth: ).

Today: (edit 10:30 AM)
1. Devotions - Contentment is not the fulfillment of what I want, but gratitude for what I already have.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - 1st mug
4. Healthy eating - B = apple w/ PB, L will be an lc wrap w/ ham & cheese, D will be chicken.
5. Exercise - a rest day!

Gee, I've done nothing and it's already after 9 AM. Guess I'd best get moving. :p

[Lizzydoll73]

Hi Doreen - Hope you feel better soon. Have a great day. :sunny:

[Auntmeme]

Hi Doe-Doe

Have a wonderful wednesday at home! enjoy your mostly quiet household :) it's after 1 and I should probably get started :teeth:

[wilderness01]

Hope you had a nice morning at home.

[lulu201]

Good afternoon, dear WISH-sis. I hope that the peace and quiet of the day helped you to get lots done on your report and also gave you some healing solitude. Just wanted you to know that you and yours are in my thoughts and prayers.

Love ya,
Erin

[MelanieC]

Hi Doreen,
Enjoy your rest day today!!

[toystoryduo]

Hi Doe,

I hope you start feeling better soon! :grouphug:

I loved your devotional thought for the day! I am going to write that on an index card and hang it on my bathroom mirror. A great reminder for me! Thanks for sharing!

Take care, princess: Doe!

[Strings]

:hug: Doe,

I hope that the quiet day helped. Did you get your project done?

Take care of yourself,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday's smilies = 2, for devotions and pills. The rest of the day fell apart.

Today is a new day. I am back at work. My anxiety level is high but I'll work through it. I need to play catch-up - 45 emails and various meetings and things that I've missed - so I'll be quite busy. That means no DIS time. :( I'm thinking good thoughts for all of you though. :grouphug:

Today: (edit 3 PM)
1. Devotions - not yet.
2. Pills - took them.
3. Water - on my fourth mug
4. Healthy eating - queasy stomach (due to nerves) but I'll do the best I can. I just read Erin's journal where she rebelliously decided to forget about healthy eating for the day. I think I'll just follow her lead. I'm not in a place mentally or emotionally or physically where I can low-carb so today will be off-plan for me - no guilt!
5. Exercise - definitely, after work!

I've decided to forget about healthy eating for the day, but I'm going to work hard to earn the other 4 smilies. At least I'm being up front and honest about it. :teeth:

[lulu201]

:hug:, :sunny: , and :goodvibes for this stressful, hectic day of yours, Doreen. I'll be thinking about you. . .

Erin

[pettyone]

I'm thinking good thoughts for all of you though. :grouphug:


Sorry that you're feeling stressed...sending good thoughts your way too...

[geetey]

Focus on that project, Doe, so you can put it behind you. The stress will melt away and let you have a great weekend!

Sending :sunny: :wizard: :sunny: :wizard: :sunny: your way!

[toystoryduo]

Hi Doe,

How did your day go today? I hope that you were able to get a lot accomplished! Sending lots of :sunny: for your day tomorrow!

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday I earned smilies for devotions and pills. I missed my water smilie by just a little. No smilies for exercise or food.

Today is FRIDAY!!!! :rockband: :cool1: :cool1:

I'm feeling better today. I brought healthy breakfast food with me. My workout bag is in my car for right after work. I'm feeling happy and upbeat again!! :Pinkbounc I think I'm ready to get back to healthy living! ::yes::

Today: (edit 1 PM)
1. Devotions - As long as I seek God with all my heart, there is hope for the future. :)
2. Pills - It amuses me that when I type that word, I almost always stop and TAKE the pills just so I can type "taken". :p
3. Water - already on my third mug.
4. Healthy eating - YES! B = yogurt w/ almonds. AM snack = trail mix (24 carbs), L = a burger w/ no bun. D? I have some chicken in the fridge that needs to be made. If I put it in the oven as soon as I get home, dinner will be easy. If I wait until I "feel like it", then I know I won't do it. I'm so predictable! :teeth:
5. Exercise - My workout clothes are packed and in the car. I'm stopping by the health club on my way home from work. I'm actually looking forward to the stress release and the feeling of my body moving. God has given me a wonderful gift of a healthy body and I'm going to use it!

It will be a busy day at work, but my stomach is NOT tied in knots like it was yesterday. I am up to the challenge! :sunny:

[Strings]

Hi Doe,

I am so happy to hear that you are feeling like you sunny self again. Your plan for the day is excellent, just make sure the chicken gets in the oven.:)

Have a great workout and enjoy your weekend,
Beth

[wilderness01]

Hope you have a happy day. It sounds like you are off to a nice start. :flower:

[septbride2002]

Glad to hear you are ready for the day! Seems like you and I were in a bit of a slump for awhile - I know what you mean - feels good to be out of it! I'm going to try and walk 4 miles on Saturday, it is suppose to be nice outside. Will you be walking?

Have a great day!

~Amanda

[lulu201]

:cool1: Good morning! I hear this is the place where there's another Friday party going on! :rockband: :banana: Let the good times roll!

I can sense you're relief in your post. :goodvibes Have a good weekend and enjoy being home with your family.

Love,
Erin

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

You sound like you have the day all mapped out! Good for you! Enjoy the workout today!

Have a great weekend! :cool1:

[DoeWDW]

I went to the health club but experienced some nasty pain in the front outside section of my calves. I cut the workout short and came home to do some research.

For those who are running, www.coolrunning.com has an excellent section on running injuries under its training area. My diagnosis - anterior shin splints. Turns out I did the right thing by cutting my workout short. I'll be icing the areas and will be doing strengthening exercises they recommend.

[Auntmeme]

Sounds like a pretty good friday :flower: except for the shin splints, take it easy so you can workout this weekend. Looks like it may be too cold to walk outside - planning for the gym?

How much water do you drink? I'm trying to increase my intake. All I drink is water & coffee so I think I need to eliminate a couple of cups of coffee.

Have a wonderful weekend princess:

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning, all!! :sunny:

I love Saturday morning - 2 whole days ahead of me with seemingly endless possibilities. :teeth:

Yesterday I earned smilies for devotions, pills, water and exercise. Food was pretty good but not low-carb - dinner was a grilled cheese sandwich & soup. :p The good news is that I didn't binge - just didn't eat low-carb.

I did go to the health club but cut my workout short due to calf pain. I did some research and came up with anterior shin splints. This is common in new runners. The back calf muscles get tight and it pulls the muscles in the front of the calf. This is an overuse injury, so I won't be working out for the next 3 days - well, at least no running. I will try to do some light strolling, just to keep things limber. There are some exercises that I'll be doing to stretch the muscles in the back of my calves and strengthening exercises for the muscles in the front of my calves. This should balance things out. Then I'll have to start running slowly again, to avoid overdoing it.

That's the technical cause of my pain, but the real causes are easy to see. I have not been warming up for 5 minutes, as they say to do. I'm always overanxious. :p I also have not been stretching properly after I exercise. These are two areas I must work on if I truly want to do any running in my workouts. Typical beginner's mistakes. :teeth:

Today, I'll be giving the dog a bath and working with my daughter to refinish her bunk bed. We're painting it white. Since it is metal, we have to rough up the surface and then spray paint it. Sounds like a good mom-daughter bonding project to me! :p She's a lot of fun to work with and we laugh together while we blare the music and talk. Of course, I also have miscellaneous errands and cleaning and laundry - typical Saturday.

Today: (edit 12 noon)
1. Devotions - We don't have to WORK for an attitude of joy, it is a gift from God. All we have to do is ask.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - on my first mug.
4. Healthy eating - B = apple w/ PB & 2 dark chocolates w/ almonds :p
5. Exercise

I'll update later.

[toystoryduo]

Good morning Doe!

You sound :sunny: and ready for a relaxing weekend ahead! Refinishing your DD's bed sounds like a great way to get some mother/daughter time in! Have a great time filled with love and laughter!

Please be sure and take it easy with those shin splints! I usually ended up with shin splints at the beginning of each gymnastics season because I was so eager to get started on new routines that I failed to warm up properly. And warming up properly is a must before beginning to flip and vault! :teeth: I did learn my lesson by my senior year though; only took 4 years to learn it!;)

Have a wonderful Saturday!

[LAinSEA]

Happy Birthday Doe!

May the year be filled with love, laughter and many smiles! :wave2:

-Laurie

[sarahsmom73]

Yikes!!! I hope the pain goes away fast!!! I also hope you had a great time bonding with your DD! :flower: Have a great Sunday!

[DoeWDW]

It's another fun day! :Pinkbounc The household is buzzing with activity.

The main focus is on refinishing DD's bed. It's a bunk bed type of arrangement with a twin mattress on top and a double-bed size futon on the bottom. The bottom can be laid flat for a bed or can be bent up to create more of a sofa - seating area. It's all in pieces in the garage to be cleaned, sanded, primed and then painted white. We're making progress but it takes time. :)

DS has a friend (female) visiting this afternoon with her father in tow. Seems she just moved in with him - used to live with Mom out of the area. He wants to meet her friends and their families so he knows who she's hanging out with. Sounds like a very smart man already! ::yes:: DS has cleaned while the rest of us worked on the bed project.

I've helped at Sunday School, worked on the bed and now am headed out for more primer and paint. Never a dull moment but we're accomplishing so much that I'm sure we'll all feel very good at the end of the day.

Healthy living has taken a back seat. The only thing I've done so far is devotions. It had to do with organizing and staying on top of the mountains of paper at home and how doing that will help give us a sense of peace - very true!

Best wishes to all! :grouphug: :grouphug:

[lulu201]

Good morning, Doreen, and Happy Valentine's Day to you and yours! :love: I hope that this Monday morning is bright and sunny where you are. We're expected to get some yukky rain and sleet. . .but we can be :sunny: in our hearts, right? :)

It sounds like the Bed Project was fun for all of you. Why can't I get that charged up about doing the housework around here? Maybe once I start and see some results I'll be :Pinkbounc with enthusiasm like you guys!

How are those shin splints feeling today? I checked out cool running and read up on the Achilles heel stuff. Thanks for suggesting it. I think I'm ready to give it a go today.

Have a great day and treat yourself to a healthy day of living right!

Erin

[septbride2002]

Hi Sweetie pie! Happy Valentines Day! Be sure to pass that along to Todd as well for me, okay?

I hope you have a wonderful day today!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

:love: Happy Valentine's Day to all!! :love:

It's grey and dreary outside, with snow and sleet, but in my heart it is :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: . I look around me today and see so many blessings in my life that it's hard to let the weather get me down. :cloud9: I truly am feeling an "attitude of gratitude" today.

Everything went well yesterday. DD's bed is still in process but DH and DD made great progress. Our visit with DS' friend and her parents was a lot of fun. We chatted for over 4 hours!

Today has gotten off to a bit of a rocky start. I realized that I forgot my meds yesterday, which explains the dizziness and queasy stomach I've been feeling. :rolleyes: I had half a bagel for breakfast and took my pill, so I'm sure I'll be feeling better within a few hours.

Today:
1. Devotions - Spend time looking to God for inspiration but don't forget to also spend time looking around you to see what you can do to help others.
2. Pills - took them.
3. Water - on my third mug. I'm also planning on a cup of decaf green tea today.
4. Healthy eating - B = 1/2 a bagel with butter, AM snack = cup of decaf green tea & a pack of crackers, L = a cup of chicken veggie soup and a muffin (I THOUGHT it was oatmeal raisin bran, but it turned out to be chocolate chip), PM snack = a can of Coke
5. Exercise - my workout gear is in the car and I'll stop at the health club on my way home after work. The training schedule calls for 40 minutes alternating 3 minutes of walking and 1 minute of running. I'll be sure to warm up for 5 minutes at a slow walk and do a proper cool down and stretches afterward. My shins are feeling good! UPDATE: I did 10 minutes on the recumbent bike to warm up, 40 minutes of walk 4 minutes at 3.5 mph and run 1 minute at 5 mph, then 10 minutes on the recumbent bike to cool down. No shin pain or any other pain!

EDIT: 9 AM
I have an 11 AM meeting to prep for. I've got my cup of decaf green tea and I'm ready to focus. I'll be working to get around to journals all day so pardon me if I haven't gotten to yours yet. :grouphug:

EDIT: 1:15 PM
My meeting went well and of course I now have new stuff on my plate but its stuff I can handle. I'm still queazy and am eating whatever will sit well - definitely not low-carb, though. I'm busy but am handling the day well and am feeling pretty good about work, for a change! :p

EDIT: 6:15 PM
Got my workout in (see exercise above). It was a lesson in patience. I did my walking and running at a slower than usual pace. I also did more walking and limited my running to avoid another overuse injury like my shin splints from last week. It was hard to slow down but I felt great at the end and still worked up a sweat. This was a success!! :Pinkbounc

[septbride2002]

You are doing awesome girl! Thanks for the vote of confidence in my journal - I am needing that today. I'm on lunch at the moment and wanted to just let ya know that I appreciate the note!

~Amanda

[toystoryduo]

Hi Doe!

I am glad to hear that you had a great weekend! You sound :sunny: and :teeth: today! I hope you have an awesome, wonderful, amazing day today! Take care! :grouphug:

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

Happy Valentine's Day Doreen!!!

[plutosmyfav]

Hi Doreen,

Sorry to hear you got dizzy/queazy today. You are doing great :)

Sunny

[sarahsmom73]

Hope you are feeling better today! :flower:

[DoeWDW]

Yesterday was a good day! I earned smilies for devotions, pills and exercise. I was way off plan for food but only 1 mug away from my water smilie. More importantly, the kids & DH & I got to spend some time together as a family, celebrating Valentine's Day.

Today will be a busy one at work but I'm feeling positive and focused and ready to take on the tasks at hand. I have a meeting this evening and must also fit in 40 minutes of cross-training exercise, hopefully a FIRM tape. I also MUST do a load of laundry. That won't leave much time for cooking or anything else.

Today:
1. Devotions - Speaking to God often in prayer and asking for His peace that passes all understanding is important. It is unrealistic to ask for peace through the resolution of all my problems. It is more important to ask for peace in the midst of my busy life as it is right now.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - first mug is almost finished.
4. Healthy eating - B = a bagel with butter
5. Exercise - the schedule calls for 40 minutes of cross-training. I'm planning to do a FIRM tape when I get home.

[Strings]

Hi Doe,

I hope the dizzyness and nausea are a thing of the past. You are doing a great job! I am glad you managed to get some family time in on a weeknight. That can be a challenge.

Ewnjoy your FIRMing,
Beth

[lulu201]

Oooh, thanks for sharing that devotion this morning. It's so true. . .I know that I'd like "instant peace," but that isn't what it's all about. Being able to share our burdens with Jesus and to keep trudging along in the midst of the storm is where we learn to find peace, I think. How 'bout we trudge on together? :goodvibes

Have a good Tuesday, Doreen. It sounds like you've got it all going on! :flower:

Erin

[septbride2002]

You are my sunshine! My only sunshine! You make me happy when skys are gray!
:sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny: :sunny:

Sending you lots of :goodvibes today!

~Amanda

[DoeWDW]

I've finally got a moment to post! :faint:

Yesterday afternoon my stress level at work was pushed through the roof. The stress continued through the evening and into more meetings this morning. I'm not in trouble or anything, but it looks as if I'll be asked to take on lots more duties.

Dinner last night consisted of grazing my way through all the junk food in the kitchen. :rolleyes: Today my focus is on survival.

I've spent lots of time in prayer and will continue to do so. It does help. I'm feeling more peaceful about the various situations and projects. However, I now have to let my chain of command know what's going on before they hear it from above. :p

Oh how I wish for a warm sunny beach, a lounge chair under a big umbrella, and a cabana boy bearing some tropical drink with a little umbrella in it..... :cloud9:

Now that the worst is over (hopefully) I will get back to healthy living, but I'm not making any firm promises for the rest of the day. Tomorrow is soon enough.

Considering all I've been through, I'm feeling pretty :sunny: and my prayers for a sense of peace within all the turmoil seem to be working.

No journals for me today - sorry all! I'm sending :goodvibes and :grouphug: to all though.

[pettyone]

Oh how I wish for a warm sunny beach, a lounge chair under a big umbrella, and a cabana boy bearing some tropical drink with a little umbrella in it..... :cloud9:


I think I would skip the drink & just have the cabana boy WEARING a little umbrella...

:love:

[toystoryduo]

Good morning Doe,

I am sending prayers for a peaceful day today. I hope everything goes well. Take care of you! :grouphug:

[Strings]

Hi Doe,

I fell apart last night as well. Our desert island with cabana boys sound heavenly. May I join you?

I am hoping that this afternoon has settled down a bit for you. I'll say a prayer that this evening allows you to recharge your batteries.

Take care,
Beth

[sarahsmom73]

Cabana boys?!!! I'm in!!! :blush: :sunny:

[Auntmeme]

You and your cabana boys ;) sorry to hear about work and the added duties, you can do it cause you are woman hear you roar! take it easy with the bagels, they are addicting ( I'm the number 1 addict) And junk food & grazing can never be in the same sentence! Have a wonderful thursday - be strong :flower:

[lulu201]

Hey, girlfriend. :sunny: for you today. I thinking about you and even thought I couldn't post yesterday, you were in my thoughts and prayers. Seems like we're all feeling the stress these days. . .at least we have each other, right? :grouphug:

Love ya,
Erin

[DoeWDW]

Only have a moment - I'm teaching a class today.

So far I've been drinking water, eating cashews and I've taken my pills. That's a start, right? :p

The stress has lessened a bit, and I'm feeling pretty sunny, so all is well. The bad news - I'll probably have to take work home this weekend just to get everything done. The good news - I have Monday off for President's day!! YAY!!

Back to class - more later! :grouphug: to all of you!! All this talk of cabana boys sure has put a smile on my face! :teeth:

[lizdotcom99]

All this talk of cabana boys sure has put a smile on my face! :teeth:


Mine too!! Hope today is a beter day for you!! Got any cashews you would like to share! Those sound especially yummy to me today!!! Good luck with all your new projects. Sounds like they knew you were the right gal for the job!!
Can't wait to hear that you got all your smilies!!!

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[Strings]

Hey Doe,

There's a new guy at the Y who has definated cabana boy potential. For some reason, I didn't mind working out today.

I hope the class is going well today. I;m sorry that you'll have to take work home with you. At least you won't have to go into the office Monday. An extra day in your pj's sounds awesome.

Take care,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

:teeth: Cabana boys! :teeth:
I'm happy that my journal has become home to the thoughts of cabana boys. Michelle can keep the locker room nakies! :rotfl: And just for the record, there will be NO combining of the two!! :rotfl2:

You all make me smile, even on those days when I don't feel like it. I will be forever grateful for the fun and support we share here! :grouphug:

I'm happy to say that there are no meetings on my work calendar today - HOORAY!! That doesn't mean that none will pop up, but it does bode well. :p I've got some work assignments that will keep me hopping but I'm not feeling overwhelmed. I'm even thinking about eating healthy today! :banana:

DD has a friend who arrived last evening and is staying with us until Monday evening. DS has a busy work schedule and plans with his friends. It will be a weekend of activity and busyness but fun and friendship too. I like Beth's idea of staying in my jammies on Monday! ::yes::

Here's the plan:
1. Devotions - I read about forgiveness of others today. Last evening I read about the realization that God has chosen me to be His child and is intimately involved in all aspects of my life and how this realization of my specialness to God will help me when I'm feeling down about myself. He loves me just the way I am - who am I to say I'm not good enough when He has decided that I am His chosen child.
2. Pills - not yet.
3. Water - on my first mug.
4. Healthy eating - B will be yogurt w/ almonds (MeMe is right - bagels are addicting and I don't need that in my life), L will be a burger / no bun, D?? I'll have to make a trip to the store for dinner fixins.
5. Exercise - I've really slacked in this area so far this week. If I don't exercise today, then definitely tomorrow.

[wilderness01]

Hope you have a nice day at work today Doe. :flower:

[Strings]

Hi Doe,
I am so glad your Friday isn't looking quite as stressful as the rest of the week has been. I am sending you tons of :wizard: to help you get most of it done. Hopefully you can minimize the amount you have to take home with you this long weekend.

Thanks so much for your post. No party this weekend, but there will be one soon. Thanks for all your support.

Have a fabulous weekend.
Beth

[toystoryduo]

I'm happy that my journal has become home to the thoughts of cabana boys. Michelle can keep the locker room nakies! And just for the record, there will be NO combining of the two!! :rotfl2:

Doe,

You have me :rotfl: with that comment! Thanks for the fun and laughter!
I hope you have a wonderful weekend! :cloud9:

[Blueeyes101817]

Hi Doreen--just coming to check in--havent been around for awhile, but im bacccccck (see ya cant get rid of me!!) hope everything is well

[sarahsmom73]

Yes.. This is where I come for my cabana boys fix! :rotfl2:

Hope you have a great weekend ! :sunny:

[DoeWDW]

Hooray for weekends!!! I slept in until 8:30 this morning!! :cloud9: I was very tired from my stressful week.

I'm getting ready to start my day. The kids & I have planned a trip to the mall soon. The house is a total and complete disaster, so I'll be cleaning. I want to feel that sense of peace that comes with a home that is uncluttered and clean. It will take some work, but it will be so worth it!

Great news! DH & DD assembled DD's refinished bed last night - it looks wonderful! It's just the way she wanted it! Nice to see the smile on her face! :) It's also nice to have one big project almost finished! DH still has to clean up the garage today.

Today: (edit 10:45 AM)
1. Devotions - Today's devotional was about how gardening puts us in touch with simplicity and God's creation. I have a black thumb, instead of a green thumb. I think God would prefer that I stay far away from His plants! :p I have been thinking about a small container on my deck for growing strawberries - maybe this will be the year I actually do it?
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - on my first mug.
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, L will be turkey, lettuce & 1000 Island dressing on a low carb tortilla, D will be ???? - looks like I'd better start thinking about this..... Worst case, I'll make tuna salad for me and something else for the family.
5. Exercise - sometime this weekend I need to get a 6 mile walk/run in. It may have to wait until tomorrow though.

[Tera]

Hi Doe...

I'm sorry it's been so long since I've last visited. You sound like you are so busy, but hanging in there pretty well. You amaze me with your patience when I'm sure I'd be having a nervous breakdown. Keep those :sunny: :sunny: days coming and

MORE CABANA BOYS!!!!!!! :banana: :banana: :banana:

[Blueeyes101817]

cabana boys?!?! woohooo!!
hope you have a great weekend

[sarahsmom73]

Glad you got the bed together and DD loves it!!! That is awesome!!! Hope you have a wonderful day! :sunny:

[lulu201]

Hey, Doreen! Sounds like some cold temps are coming our way :cold: . I hope the :sunny: you're feeling will keep you warm!

Glad DD likes her bed--it's always fun to change the furniture and surroundings, isn't it? I bought a new houseplant yesterday, and even something as simple as that kicks things up a notch.

Have a good Sunday, WISH-sis.

ERin

[toystoryduo]

Hi Doe!

I hope you are enjoying the rest of your weekend! :sunny:

[lizdotcom99]

6 Mile walk this weekend for you :earseek: :earseek: :earseek: Hope you have better weather there than we do here....hope you have some :sunny: for your walk!!

I am with you on the black thumb thing..... :rotfl: Gardening here is best left to Greg.....I kill plants......not intentionally of course!! I can even kill a cactus or a weed... :confused3

Hope you have a great what is left of the weekend!! Have a great walk!!!
And while I am at it....have a great week!! You are doing a great job!!!

:cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2:

[DoeWDW]

I never got my 6 mile training walk/run in this weekend. I had the time but just didn't follow through. This is the story of my life regarding exercise lately. I have a half marathon coming up in mid-April and I am not doing myself any favors by skipping my training. :( Where has my motivation gone? Today the ground is covered with snow and a layer of sleet on top - not a good day for training. I suppose I'll have to get myself in gear and hit the health club. I know I'll feel better afterward but making myself get there is so tough. :rolleyes:

I've been a lazy slug all weekend for the most part. Now I feel anxious about getting all the stuff done that I wanted to do over 3 days. Silly me! I KNOW I should scale back the expectations and give myself a break but part of me says I was lazy and need to suck it up and get it all done. Boy, does that sound irrational when I read it in print. I think this calls for some time in prayer this morning. The Lord Himself may be the only one who can quiet my irrational inner voice.

Plan for today? I'm not ready to make one. I'm going to take some time for devotions and prayer. I'll be back later.

EDIT: 12 noon
I just got back from the health club - 6 miles in 1:33 on the treadie. I really wanted to quit but I just kept going. I wasn't fast but I got the distance in and my Marathoning for Mortals book tells me that distance is more important than speed at this point.

Today: (edit: Tues. AM)
1. Devotions - Using deep breathing and a simple prayer - such as inhaling while thinking "Dear Lord" and exhaling while thinking "bring me peace" - can really help us reduce those anxious feelings we're having. A perfect devotion for me today. :p
2. Pills - taken. :p
3. Water - 5 mugs down. :p
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, L and D are still up in the air. I have to scrounge around and see what kind of healthy stuff I've got in the house. L = chicken fingers & 2 cheese sticks. D = 4 slices pizza & 4 Dove dark chocolate Promises :rolleyes:
5. Exercise - did 6 treadie miles in 1:33. I'm proud of me for following through and doing this! :cheer2: :p

I'm off to find some lunch and to figure out what goals are REASONABLE for my day. I've already done a load of dishes and a load of laundry, so I'm making progress.

[septbride2002]

Great job on the tread mill! :cheer2: :cheer2: :cheer2: that is awesome girl! And in great time!

I like your Devotion today - I'll have to remember that at work tomorrow. ;)

~Amanda

[Blueeyes101817]

aweomse job on the treadmill!!! i just got a treadmill yesterday--going to go on it in a little bit
i know what you mean about being lazy sometimes-i need to get my self in gear

good job on going to the health club!!

[sarahsmom73]

WTG on the Treddie! That is GREAT! :cool1: You really inspire me to keep moving!!!! I am up to 5 miles... Next week I will shoot for 6! Then I will almost be 1/2 way to 13.1! Thanks for setting such and awesome example! :flower:

[lulu201]

:banana: Good going on that treadie, WISH-sis! You did it and I'm proud of you! It felt good to walk, didn't it? I think you'll be really glad tonight as you settle down for some restful, restorative sleep.

You got your dishes and a load of laundry done, too. :goodvibes It's the little things that make us feel good!

Have a good morning tomorrow if you're up and out of the door before I post to your journal.

:hug:,
Erin

[Tera]

Hey Doe - Great job on getting to the gym and doing 6 miles. You inspire me to work harder and increase my miles. I know there are days when we don't want to work out, but try and remember how far you've come and how good you'll feel after. :sunny:

[toystoryduo]

Hi Doe!

Great job on 6 miles on the treadie! I can't wait until this weather breaks and we get some warm, :sunny: weather. Then, we can walk outside! :cool1:

Have a great Tuesday!

[DoeWDW]

I earned 4 out of 5 smilies yesterday! That's pretty good for me. Food wasn't the greatest but today's a new day.

I was up at 4:30 AM because I was awake thinking about the work (for work) that I neglected all weekend. I got up & dressed, ate breakfast, did devotions and then spent time working. It was a productive morning! ::yes::

Today: (edit 1:45 PM)
1. Devotions - When my emotions are getting the best of me, praying about my feelings to God can lighten my burden and help me feel at peace amidst the chaos. The chaos of life won't change, but my reactions to it can change, with God's help. :p
2. Pills - taken. :p
3. Water - on my fourth mug.
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, AM snacks = string cheese, a Coke & 2 packs of peanut M&Ms from the EVM (can we say "stress eating"? ), L = tuna salad & lettuce wrap, PM snacks will be an orange and some string cheese. D?? I really must stop at the grocery store! My backup plan will be ham & green beans.
5. Exercise - The schedule calls for 30 minutes of crosstraining. I have my workout clothes laid out and I'll do my Pilates for crosstraining when I get home.

Gotta run - have another fun 11 AM meeting to prep for. :sunny:

EDIT: 1:45 PM
The 11 AM meeting started at 11:30 and ran until 1:30. We accomplished a ton and I am relieved even though I now have more work to do and new deadlines to meet. I feel like I KNOW what is expected of me, instead of guessing and trying to read someone else's mind. :teeth: I have my work cut out for me but it is achievable.

I'm feeling less anxious - no need to turn to the EVM anymore this afternoon. :banana:

[lulu201]

:hug: :hug: :hug: for you, Doreen. Feel me sending you hope and strength, OK? You can do this project. . .I know you can. I'll be thinking of you in your meeting at 11 a.m.

Take care, now--
Erin

[septbride2002]

Another good devotion this morning! Great job on getting up and doing your work - I know I do my best work at night, that is when I can sit down and concentrate on getting it done. I actually did some last night from 9:30 to 10:30.

What will you be doing for cross training? Don't forget those Firm videos - that'll get ya sweating!

~Amanda

[pettyone]

1. Devotions - When my emotions are getting the best of me, praying about my feelings to God can lighten my burden and help me feel at peace amidst the chaos. The chaos of life won't change, but my reactions to it can change, with God's help. :p


Doreen--

Thanks for that one...

:sunny:

[septbride2002]

Hi Friend,
Tonight when I left Curves at 6p.m. the sun had not quite set - you could still drive w/o headlights on and it made me think of you. Summer is almost here!

~Amanda

[Strings]

Hi Doreen,

I am glad that the meeting went well, and that your anxiety level is down a bit. You can definately get it all done.

I also want to thank your for sharing the devotion. I definatley needed to hear that today.

I hope you have a fantastic day,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

Can we just change the spelling to Wendsday???? It just makes more sense to me.....LOL!!! :rotfl: Ya know, we're "wending" our way through the week. :rotfl: The dictionary defines wend as "proceeding on one's course". In my spare time, I'll start a petition! :teeth:

It will be a busy day at work - lots to do. I have 7 main tasks and will tackle one each hour. That means no time to DIS. I'm really missing all my journal friends - have only had time to keep up with 2 - 3 lately. :( Oh well, I suppose doing my job really needs to come first.

Today: (edit: 11:20 AM)
1. Devotions - Keep the focus on God. You know how an autofocus camera will make the main subject of the photo clear and everything else around it blurry? Our focus on God should be the same. If we focus in on God, then the other circumstances of our lives will not seem as stressful, since they will be in the background. I'm not sure how this fits in with Erin's book but I'll be thinking about it today.
2. Pills - taken.
3. Water - almost finished my first mug.
4. Healthy eating - ummm, I'll do my best. To be honest, my life is out of balance, focused on work, and this is one area that is suffering. I'm not going to beat myself up over it but I'll try to minimize the damage.
5. Exercise - supposed to be a rest day but I think I'll do the crosstraining I DIDN'T do yesterday and rest tomorrow.

Updates later!

[toystoryduo]

Doe,

What a great devotion today! Thank you for sharing! :grouphug:

I hope you have a wonderful day filled with God's peace and strength! :sunny:

[lulu201]

:wave: Hi, Doreen. If I could be there, I'd give you a big, sisterly hug. :hug:
Things aren't easy right now, but you're going to manage it. One step, one task at a time. There have been several times over the last couple of days when I've thought of your "breathing prayer." Thanks for sharing that.

Take care, WISH-sis.

Love,
Erin

[sarahsmom73]

I love the "wendsday" thing!!! I agree! :flower:

[DoeWDW]

I earned :) :) :) for devotions, pills and water yesterday. Very little healthy eating and no exercise. When I'm stressed at work, I tend to come home and crash.

The forecast today calls for 3"-6" of snow. It is just starting. The ride home should be interesting. :p Thank goodness for all wheel drive! The woman I ride with is a good driver in snow so all will be well. The kids may get out of school early though - you just never know. (edit 11:15 AM - yep, the kids are being sent home at 12:30 :p)

Work - busy as usual. I only got 2 of my 7 tasks done yesterday but I was pretty proud of the work I did on them. Today I'm moving on to the other 5. I have decided that I will come in on Saturday and do some of this work that is stressing me out. That way I won't feel so overwhelmed going into Monday.

Today: (EDIT 11:15 AM)
1. Devotions - He who is faithful in little will be faithful in much. Make doing the right thing a cherished habit, even in the "little" situations where no one would know. Now, if I could be faithful in my healthy eating....... still working on this one. :p
2. Pills - meds taken but I ran out of vitamins.
3. Water - third mug started.
4. Healthy eating - B = yogurt w/ almonds, AM snack = banana, L will be an apple w/ PB, PM snack will be an orange, D will be ham steaks w/ a low carb mustard sauce and green beans. (edit 11:15 AM - I'm majorly proud of myself for NOT having any of the goodies brought in for a co-worker's retirement, even if he DID have 37 years of service. :hourglass )
5. Exercise - :rolleyes: Do I hafta???? I'm not making any promises on this one. I know I'll feel better if I do, but if I'm exhausted when I get home then I'm saving my strength for work tomorrow. Besides, I may have to shovel snow.

By the way, the DISboards have changed the siggie requirements. For those who are tech-savvy, no more HTML tags - switch them to VB. This means that the original countdown timers no longer are supported, among other things. See the Tech Board for more info.

[lulu201]

Good morning, WISH-sis. :goodvibes all around you :goodvibes Please know that I'm thinking about you and sending all kinds of love and support your way.

:teeth: You don't know about wearing your pajamas inside out? It's school folklore--if you wear your jammies inside out, you'll get a snow day! Do it tonight and maybe it'll work! :teeth:

Take care of yourself today. Maybe it seems like too much to have a whole healthy eating day (why is it such darn trouble sometimes?!!!!), so count on just one strongly healthy meal. And instead of a whole workout, maybe just a quickie WATP one miler just to relieve some of the stress. . .kind of a "work release" walk, just for YOU. Just something to think about.

I'll be thinking of you in the p.m. commute. Glad your driver is a good one.

Hugs to you, honey--
Erin

[Strings]

Hi Doe,

I am sending major :wizard: for your tasks. Taking some time on Saturday to finish up some of your projects is a good idea, but be sure to take some time to yourself this weekend to recharge your batteries.

Snow shovelling counts as exercise.

Be careful on your way home,
Beth

[DoeWDW]

I"m home - the commute was slow but without incident. :)

[plutosmyfav]

Hi Doreen,
Glad you made it home. I guess you'll be passing the snow on to us soon :) We're supposed to get 2-5" tonight :rolleyes:

Glad I have 4 wheel drive now, too::yes::

Sunny

[Blueeyes101817]

glad you got home okay--roads in nj are pretty bad!!

[lulu201]

:sunny: Good morning, Doreen! :sunny: It's a beautiful, snowy day! If you've gone into work this morning, please know I'll be thinking of you and all that you have on your "to do" list. If you're NOT at work, please know that I'm thinking of you and all that you have on your "to do" list!! :teeth: A mom's work is never done, is it?

Seriously, though, whatever the day brings to you, know that you can handle it. God is with you, watching you and lifting you up. Take a few minutes for a prayer or two. Did you read the Upper Room devotional this morning? The thought for the day is this: "Spending time with God helps us let go of our fears and worries." It doesn't have to be long--just a moment can help.

Gotta run to school.

Love you,
Erin

[DoeWDW]

:sunny: Good morning! :sunny:

Yesterday I earned smilies for devotions. :teeth: Today I'll do better.

I just got into work - we had a 2 hour delay because of the snow. We got more than expected - 9"-10". Schools had a 2 hour delay but didn't get the day off. I confess that is probably my fault since I did not wear my pajamas inside out last night. :( Erin, I promise I'll try it next time.

I have plenty to do but I'm not feeling overly stressed.

Today:
1. Devotions - Journaling can help us move closer to God. I think I'll go read the Upper Room devotional too - sounds like something I need to hear. Thanks Erin!
2. Pills - not yet.
3. Water - not yet.
4. Healthy eating - B will be yogurt w/ walnuts, L will be an apple w/ PB, snack will be an orange. D will be the ham steaks I didn't make last night.
5. Exercise - probably not.

[DoeWDW]

I posted this on the main WISH board but wanted to post it here so I'll remember:

FYI: Cardio vs. weight training
------------------------------

I thought I'd post this for all of us. I know I've read it before but I needed the reminder.

Paul Chek has an article on Discovery Health called "Get Off Your Fat and Get the Fat Off." In it, he talks about how to lose the fat. His first point is that diets alone won't do it - we've got to exercise. His second point is that resistance training (lifting weights, using resistance bands, etc.) will take the fat off faster than cardio.

Here's an excerpt from the article:
"Instead of starving your body to shed fat, a more effective method is to increase the amount of energy you expend. Muscle cells are fuel hungry machines. Consequently any exercise that increases the size of muscle cells and makes them work more often will increase metabolism for optimal fat loss. Sounds to me like resistance training tops out again! It is well known among strength training professionals and researchers that there is a significant post-exercise elevation of metabolism, lasting up to 3-4 hours after your weight training session ends. This is an important consideration when deciding between cardio work or resistance training for fat loss. Since cardiovascular exercise provides very little post-exercise elevation of metabolism, your cells stop burning extra energy when you get done with your run, bike, swim, etc. Compare this to a good, solid weight training session where your metabolism keeps nibbling away at that fat for hours."

Here's a link to the full article:
http://health.discovery.com/converg...ess/getoff.html

[lulu201]

Ooh, thanks for sharing that! I've heard it before, but reading it again redefines its importance. Makes me want our weight thingy even more!

Erin

[pettyone]

It makes sense to me!! Apparently, strength training is very efficient...doesn't take a whole lot of time & pays off all day, every day.

In January, when I started my weight loss journey, I was so focused on cardio to burn the fat off...boy, was I missing a big piece of the puzzle...strengthen muscles, burn fat...

[septbride2002]

Morning Doe - I just wanted to back-up what your article says. When I go for walks I feel exhausted afterwards. All I want to do is take a very long nap. I do enjoy them because they get me outside, and I feel I am burning lots of calories - but am exhausted afterwards. With Curves which is strength training and cardio no matter how tired I am when I go in I always feel amazing when I come out. I have all sorts of energy for the rest of the evening and don't feel the sluggish drain that I feel with walking. Plus in the first month I loss 8.5 inches off my body!

~Amanda

[DisneyEnthusiastic]

Happy Friday Doe! :goodvibes

Thanks so much for sharing that article. It really helps put things in perspective. I, too, as Amanda posted...have been going to Curves and am just amazed at the results I am seeing since I joined 6 weeks ago!

Take care!

Gail

[Blueeyes101817]

have a great day!!

[sarahsmom73]

Have a great weekend Doe~ :flower:

[DoeWDW]

I did great yesterday until evening. At least I ate healthy until dinner, right?

I'm joining Erin in a Monday morning weigh-in and siggie update. My siggie numbers are no longer accurate. The scale this morning said I'm right back where I started at 155. I'm consoling myself with the fact that I'm in the DZone so some of that MUST be water weight. :p Whatever the scale says on Monday morning is what goes in my siggie, no matter what.

I'm also thinking of spending the money for a session with a personal trainer at the health club. I need to keep training for the half marathon in seven weeks but I also want to incorporate more strength training into my regimen. I also want to set up an appointment a month later so I'll feel accountable for my workouts and progress.

I'm at work and will be catching up so I don't have that anxious overwhelmed sick-to-my-stomach feeling on Sunday evening. It's so quiet that I feel like I can truly concentrate! These open-cube environments are really noisy during a regular workday!! Even with headphones on, it's still distracting, with people stopping by and the phone ringing. I'm enjoying the peace! :cloud9:

[lulu201]

Hi, Doreen! Oooh, I think the personal trainer idea is a great one! :Pinkbounc
Just imagine a toned, healthy body nourished by good foods and great exercise crossing that finish line in 7 weeks! :cool1: :cool1: Spring will be here and we'll be :banana: :banana: !

Take care, dear WISH-sis.
Love,
Erin

P.S. We've got to set up a March walk. PM me with your availablity. :)

[septbride2002]

I guess all three of us had an ephiphany this weekend. We all have the same idea - getting back to basics. I am going to try and think of this month as boot camp - It is only 32 days and after that we will relook at what worked and what didn't. :) Have a good Saturday and Sunday - try to get in some relaxation time because it is back to work on Monday :rolleyes:

~Amanda

[wilderness01]

I'm thinking about a personal trainer as well. Let us know how that goes ok? Have a nice Sunday. :flower:

[sarahsmom73]

Good for you! I always said I would do great with a personal trainer and chef!!! I hope it works out great!~ :cool1:

[Blueeyes101817]

personal trainier is a good idea!!! good luck :)
have a great week`

[DoeWDW]

This is it - the day before I start over. Actually I call it Prep Day. I need to set myself up for success and this is the day that I get it all ready.

Erin and I had a heart to heart talk yesterday. We are starting again tomorrow morning with weigh-in and measurements. We both want to feel fitter and thinner when we cross that half marathon finish line in 7 weeks.

So today, I've gotten all my laundry done - no clothes stress this week. I'm headed to the grocery store with a list to stock up on healthy food. I'm mentally preparing myself. I am NOT binging on junk - I've been doing enough of that lately. ;) I'll have menus to guide my food choices.

I'm also getting several exercise outfits ready and packed in my workout bag to make it easier to stop by the health club after work. I'll make my appointment with the personal trainer tomorrow. I'll have a workout schedule for this week though until I can get in to see her.

I'm tired of feeling fat and just getting by. I NEED to drop some of this weight to feel better about myself. It's time to get serious.

So look for Day 1 posts from both Erin and me tomorrow. :sunny:

[sarahsmom73]

Awesome for you!!! :flower: I look forward to it!

[DoeWDW]

This is it - my last post to this journal. :( With over 2900 posts, it has become pretty long AND long-winded. The truth is that I'm ready for a fresh start.

Come join me on my new "Doreen's Fresh Start and Success Story" journal! Hope to see everyone there! :grouphug: