Biggest Loser alumni holiday chat! (All are welcome!)

[lisah0711]

I finally stepped back on the scale for the first time after the end of the last challenge. I did not too well with eating over the last two weeks I thought, but the scale thought otherwise. I lost half a pound since then. Very happy about this as I tried to balance out my not so good choices but just did not get back into the tracking of all my food (which I find is essential for weight loss). So now I have a huge motivation to really get back into tracking, exercising and eating within my calorie range! Hopefully I can make one or two pounds disappear before Christmas!!

Great job with a little loss even when you weren't tracking! That is a good sign the healthy lifestyle thing is becoming second nature.

So, yesterday I ran 20 miles. It was a lonnnnnnng 20 miles. By the end I alternated between weeping, yelling at Mike and telling him this was his stupid idea, and contemplating what would happen if I just laid down in the middle of the park. My glutes were hurting so much during the walk breaks that I ran the last 1.2 miles without breaks--very, very slowly. For some reason walking was killing me at the end. But I finished it and I am feeling ok today. Part of the problem--went out too fast at the beginning, and then paid for it at the end. But I would rather re-learn that lesson now than at the marathon in January.

Today I am on a little junk binge--not good--in an attempt to eat back all 2000 calories that I burned off yesterday. Actually I am not doing that bad, but I do need to reign it in. I am back in the 140s in my maintain range and I would like to keep it like that!

Congratulations on your long run, Rose! That Mickey medal will be yours before you know it! And congratulations on being back in your maintain range.

I finally got a run in! It's only been weeks and weeks. Just 1.5 miles, but it was good. And the dog, who was very, very dopey from his mole removal a couple days ago went with me and seems to be back to normal. We called him a big black Bambi when we got him home from the vet because he just couldn't seem to get his legs to do what he wanted.

Glad that you got your run in, Linda, especially in this soggy, windy weather! Glad that dog is feeling better, too.

And thank you for hosting the exercise challenge!

Quick hi as we drive back from Massachusetts, family party.
Ate way to many carbs! And mindless eating, that's what I get for having the fruit tray in front of me. Must say I was pleased with the kids, DD was the only one who asked for dessert and she just had one small square of chocolate then went back to the fruit.

I'm still full from lunch and we ate at 2 so I'm probably going to just have a cup of tea and head to bed.

Must must must make a menu this week and stick to it. We've been throwing to many meals together last minute or relying on the Little Caesars $5 pizza deal. Curse you Pizza! Pizza!

Had one sip of soda today, DD's cup was over flowing and it was going to spill. Didn't even realize I did it til it was in my mouth. Spit that out in the trash can! Blech! It was soooo nasty! Part of me feels like I cheated but since I spit it out I'm counting it as still 1 year and 1 month since I had soda.

Yay! Almost home! Will touch base later.

Sent from my iPhone using DISboards

Nah, one sip that you spit out doesn't count, Buffy. Glad that you had a nice week-end!

Working today and heading to Boston tomorrow. My Dad is scheduled for surgery to remove his tumor and I will be there to spend the day with my Mom. Heading out at 5am and not sure when I will be home. DH is away, but will return tomorrow afternoon in time to pick up the kids at school. But I am cancelling DS's eye dr. appointment to keep things simple. And DH will have to take DD to swim in the evening, unless I arrange a carpool today.

Sending you and your family oodles of good thoughts, prayers, and pixie dust, Pamela.

Glad that your DS is okay, too. Sounds like maybe it was cross-contamination since everything had been working so well for so long.

You could absolutely do a half marathon! If you are thinking about training for a Disney race may I suggest Princess 2014? mikamah will be celebrating her 50th birthday and a bunch of us BL folks are going. We call it Princesspalooza 2014. Always room for more princesses.

Unofficial QOTD: How much holiday shopping have you done? Are you finished? Is is wrapped?

Bonus unofficial QOTD: Do you like wrapping or are you more a "throw-it-in-a-gift-bag and good-enough" person??

My shopping is done. Not because I am so organized but because we have a moratorium on gifts at our house due to saving money for our cruise this summer. I did get a couple of token gifts for under the tree. I will wrap them later. And my two out of town gifts are cash so I will send those this week. It's nice to have my Christmas chores done early so I can enjoy the season.

We have a few things bought (The ds's and their gf's are all getting banks that I ordered from DW after we got back. Ds1 is Indianna Jones MIckey and ds2 is getting Luke Skywalker Mickey and dh is getting Buzz Lightyear. All the girls are getting the castle with characters since most of us are really not princesses) We got ds's mostly gf cards to movies and restaurants. They are both working and can buy themselves anything they want.

Pam I hope your father's surgery goes well.

Off to stretch my back

I love the bank idea, Dona. Hope your back feels better!

Just plugging away here so I shall leave you with another thought from my friends at sparkpeople.com

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

Unofficial QOTD: How much holiday shopping have you done? Are you finished? Is is wrapped?

Bonus unofficial QOTD: Do you like wrapping or are you more a "throw-it-in-a-gift-bag and good-enough" person??

Not finished yet but I actually have a great handle on things this year.

The only person I need an idea for is DS16's girlfriend. Not a clue what to get her and DS doesn't even know what to get.

I'm a wrapper. I am soooo Martha Stewart when it comes to wrapping but no one here appreciates it so I don't go overboard anymore.

One year I took oatmeal containers and wrapped them in flocked wrapping paper and added gold thread and trim to look like drums, printed everyones name on them on gold vellum and glued to vellum down after adding a bunch of homemade cookies in them. Yeah, no one cared besides mom. She opened the package from the bottom to keep the top intact.

Pamela I hope DS is feeling better today and we are praying for dad. Keep us posted if you can.

 

[pjlla]

We have done el zippo holiday shopping, unless you count the boxers and socks we got at DLR last month! Although they will be opened Christmas morning, I don't think the boys will be jumping up and down in excitement! I am a throw it in the bag and good enough kind of wrapper. DH's former boss was incredible in her wrapping. You just wanted to keep the gifts on a shelf they were so beautiful.

DS2's birthday is mid month so we just don't think too much about holiday gifts until after that. Although, we've done no shopping for his birthday, either!!

Pamela, glad your son was okay.

I subbed today and will sub tomorrow and hopefully won't get a job for Wednesday! DS2 has an orthodontist appointment after his school so I've gone ahead and blocked myself out for that. Hopefully there won't be any morning only jobs. Where's that fingers crossed smilie?!

Almost didn't walk at 5:30 this morning. I could hear rain and knew wind was forecast. But I got up and am glad I did. There was no wind and just a misty rain off and on. Cross that off my list. If I get motivated I will lift some weights before bed. Not much time so where's that cattle prod?

Have a terrific Tuesday.

Glad you got your walk done! Isn't that a great feeling?

We have a few things bought (The ds's and their gf's are all getting banks that I ordered from DW after we got back. Ds1 is Indianna Jones MIckey and ds2 is getting Luke Skywalker Mickey and dh is getting Buzz Lightyear. All the girls are getting the castle with characters since most of us are really not princesses) We got ds's mostly gf cards to movies and restaurants. They are both working and can buy themselves anything they want.

Pam I hope your father's surgery goes well.

Off to stretch my back

The banks are a cute idea!

Thanks for the well wishes. He's in surgery now.

Pamela--how very scary about your son. Mostly cause you don't know what caused it. I am glad everything is ok. I hope your drive to Boston is stress free and that your Dad's surgery goes well. And of course if you wanted to you could complete a half marathon. You are very disciplined and would get your training in and that truly is the key. There are tons of books about completing your first half too.

I am still a little sore from my long run on Saturday, but hoping to get a scheduled run in today without too many problems. Doing good with the eating--except a little too much ice cream last night, but that's ok.

Have a good Tuesday!

DS seemed okay last night, but not much appetite. Hope he is ok today as I am in Boston and DH is in Maine.

Last night must have been ice cream night.....I indulged, but had the calories coming to me...just wish I could have avoided the sugar.

Sending you and your family oodles of good thoughts, prayers, and pixie dust, Pamela.

Glad that your DS is okay, too. Sounds like maybe it was cross-contamination since everything had been working so well for so long.

You could absolutely do a half marathon! If you are thinking about training for a Disney race may I suggest Princess 2014? mikamah will be celebrating her 50th birthday and a bunch of us BL folks are going. We call it Princesspalooza 2014. Always room for more princesses.

My shopping is done. Not because I am so organized but because we have a moratorium on gifts at our house due to saving money for our cruise this summer. I did get a couple of token gifts for under the tree. I will wrap them later. And my two out of town gifts are cash so I will send those this week. It's nice to have my Christmas chores done early so I can enjoy the season.

I love the bank idea, Dona. Hope your back feels better!

Just plugging away here so I shall leave you with another thought from my friends at sparkpeople.com

Thanks for the prayers. In the waiting room at Mass General right now.

DS ok today. Fingers crossed it was a one-time event.

Ooooohhhh......a plan for 2014...the year that I ALSO turn 50! I need to think about this!

Nice job with the shopping done! So jealous!

*****************

Happy Tuesday friends! As I mentioned I am here in the waiting room while DDad has surgery. The drive was more miserable than I expected....took 56 minutes longer than it should have, as I didn't head out early enough to miss the traffic. But I didn't get lost, so all is well.

Ok...just got the message Dad is out of surgery, everything went fine, clear margins, tumor was dead from the radiation, all is good! Praise God! (Hope I can say that without getting points!)

Stress stomach will feel better now. have my healthy lunch and snacks with me. Hopefully I can get out for a walk to stretch my legs and get my blood moving.

I'll be back later to chat a bit more.........P

 

[princessbride6205]

Happy Tuesday friends! As I mentioned I am here in the waiting room while DDad has surgery. The drive was more miserable than I expected....took 56 minutes longer than it should have, as I didn't head out early enough to miss the traffic. But I didn't get lost, so all is well.

Ok...just got the message Dad is out of surgery, everything went fine, clear margins, tumor was dead from the radiation, all is good! Praise God! (Hope I can say that without getting points!)

Stress stomach will feel better now. have my healthy lunch and snacks with me. Hopefully I can get out for a walk to stretch my legs and get my blood moving.

I'll be back later to chat a bit more.........P

How healthy focused are we here, that I first read your sentence about points and thought you were talking about Weight Watchers!

Glad to hear that DS and DDad are doing okay!

I thought of you this weekend when I signed DD up for swimming lessons! We had a "level assessment" that was one-on-one and she loved it so much that she wants to do races! LOL - the girl can't swim yet.

Unofficial QOTD: How much holiday shopping have you done? Are you finished? Is is wrapped?

Bonus unofficial QOTD: Do you like wrapping or are you more a "throw-it-in-a-gift-bag and good-enough" person??
I am so prepared this year! Seriously a first! We do extended family (5 little cousins plus white elephant exchange) on Thanksgiving, so that's done! I ordered our Christmas cards and made photo calendars for my mom and grandma. I also bought an ornament for my grandma and will have DD make something for her as well. She already got a frame with DD's school picture. I still need to figure out something small for my dad. The rest of my mom and dad's gifts are usually symbolic - they have everything, so we usually donate to a charity they like as the main chunk of their gift. DH bought himself his big present already, so I'm just getting him a few little things that I've already bookmarked - haven't ordered yet since I'm awaiting his wishlist to see if there is anything there. DD has an insanely long list this year, and as much as I'm prepping her that she won't get everything, write down your 5 favorite things for Santa, etc. I'm concerned she'll still be disappointed. Oh well! Last year and for her birthday I started giving her a $20 Target gift card with her gifts - that way she still has a gift to look forward to afterwards! However, the majority of our shopping is done online - we fly to NJ, so it's easier to ship everything there.

I like to wrap, but it's a big project since I can't do any ahead of time. We do a few gift bags, but there is something about watching a Christmas special and wrapping! Nothing real fancy though - no Martha Stewart here!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Unofficial QOTD: How much holiday shopping have you done? Are you finished? Is is wrapped?

Bonus unofficial QOTD: Do you like wrapping or are you more a "throw-it-in-a-gift-bag and good-enough" person??

I've done quite a bit, but nothing is wrapped. I still have to place an order at Amazon, shop for pjs and the like for ds at Target, shirts/ties for dh at Macy's, and stuff stockings. I also need to make my list for Santa

I enjoy wrapping, but when I have odd shapes I'm all about the bag

Maria

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Pamela -- So glad your dad's surgery went well! Here's hoping your drive back to NH is less stressful And here's an extra for ds!

I got ds14 a Lego Star Wars advent calendar this year. He's not much of a Lego kid, but I thought he might like it since it's Star Wars and they are small projects to build. It is a major hit! I wish I could predict what will and won't be greeted with joy

Maria

 

[pjlla]

Not finished yet but I actually have a great handle on things this year.

The only person I need an idea for is DS16's girlfriend. Not a clue what to get her and DS doesn't even know what to get.

I'm a wrapper. I am soooo Martha Stewart when it comes to wrapping but no one here appreciates it so I don't go overboard anymore.

One year I took oatmeal containers and wrapped them in flocked wrapping paper and added gold thread and trim to look like drums, printed everyones name on them on gold vellum and glued to vellum down after adding a bunch of homemade cookies in them. Yeah, no one cared besides mom. She opened the package from the bottom to keep the top intact.

Pamela I hope DS is feeling better today and we are praying for dad. Keep us posted if you can.

I used to be a fancy wrapper too, but had the same problem...no one cared!

I'll think on it and see if I can come up with any gift suggestions for the GF. I think usually they want something "cute" or fun and something special (like a small piece of jewelry) from the boyfriend.

How healthy focused are we here, that I first read your sentence about points and thought you were talking about Weight Watchers!

Glad to hear that DS and DDad are doing okay!

I thought of you this weekend when I signed DD up for swimming lessons! We had a "level assessment" that was one-on-one and she loved it so much that she wants to do races! LOL - the girl can't swim yet.

Unofficial QOTD: How much holiday shopping have you done? Are you finished? Is is wrapped?

Bonus unofficial QOTD: Do you like wrapping or are you more a "throw-it-in-a-gift-bag and good-enough" person??
I am so prepared this year! Seriously a first! We do extended family (5 little cousins plus white elephant exchange) on Thanksgiving, so that's done! I ordered our Christmas cards and made photo calendars for my mom and grandma. I also bought an ornament for my grandma and will have DD make something for her as well. She already got a frame with DD's school picture. I still need to figure out something small for my dad. The rest of my mom and dad's gifts are usually symbolic - they have everything, so we usually donate to a charity they like as the main chunk of their gift. DH bought himself his big present already, so I'm just getting him a few little things that I've already bookmarked - haven't ordered yet since I'm awaiting his wishlist to see if there is anything there. DD has an insanely long list this year, and as much as I'm prepping her that she won't get everything, write down your 5 favorite things for Santa, etc. I'm concerned she'll still be disappointed. Oh well! Last year and for her birthday I started giving her a $20 Target gift card with her gifts - that way she still has a gift to look forward to afterwards! However, the majority of our shopping is done online - we fly to NJ, so it's easier to ship everything there.

I like to wrap, but it's a big project since I can't do any ahead of time. We do a few gift bags, but there is something about watching a Christmas special and wrapping! Nothing real fancy though - no Martha Stewart here!

Glad DD enjoyed the swim lessons. It can be a healthy addiction (but not so healthy for your wallet!).

I'm jealous that you are nearly done with gifts. I've barely started!

Pamela -- So glad your dad's surgery went well! Here's hoping your drive back to NH is less stressful And here's an extra for ds!

I got ds14 a Lego Star Wars advent calendar this year. He's not much of a Lego kid, but I thought he might like it since it's Star Wars and they are small projects to build. It is a major hit! I wish I could predict what will and won't be greeted with joy

Maria

I got DS BOTH Lego Advent calendars last year (regular and SW). He seemed to prefer the regular one.... And when I shopped this year the SW calendar was $20 more than the other, so the choice was easy!

**********

Dad is doing great, but it was originally booked to be a day surgery even though they told him he would be here overnight, so they don't have a bed for him and may not until 9pm tonight. We aren't allowed to stay with him in the PACU, so here we stay in the waiting room.

I tried to be ambitious and go for a walk but it started pouring rain so I was forced to return to the hospital...soaking wet.

Mom keeps trying to send me home, but I won't go until Dad gets in a room at least. Trying to talk Mom into coming home with me instead of spending the night in the waiting room, but so far no luck. I'll keep trying.

Not sure if I'll get back on here today as the signal is spotty at best.

Instead of a QOTD I will leave you with a challenge:

Try a new healthy vegetable recipe this week...maybe a gratin with some yummy low-fat cheese, a roasted veggie combo, or a new salad! If you like it share the recipe with us. This time of year it can be tough to get enough veggies, so find something new to get excited about!

TTYL...............P

 

[donac]

Pamela -- So glad your dad's surgery went well! Here's hoping your drive back to NH is less stressful And here's an extra for ds!

I got ds14 a Lego Star Wars advent calendar this year. He's not much of a Lego kid, but I thought he might like it since it's Star Wars and they are small projects to build. It is a major hit! I wish I could predict what will and won't be greeted with joy

Maria

We got that for my sons last year. It was a little hard since the younger one is at college. The older one (26 at the time) opened until the 13th and when the younger one got home he opened the rest. It was very cute and they loved it.

 

[Rose&Mike]

****Spring thread update/ideas****

Good morning! First let me say, that I am so grateful to the biggest loser threads over the last couple of years. I am much healthier as we approach 2013 than I was when I started in 2010. And while the threads have been great, it is the people and support that matter. I have been chatting with Lisah, Pamela and Dona about ideas for January, since it appears that there does not appear to be anyone jumping on board to host the spring challenge.

Sometimes change is a good thing.

I would like to propose starting in January we try running the weight loss thread a little different.

What I propose is something similar to how the exercise thread is run. Each participant would set a goal for the month of pounds they would like to lose or a maintain range they would like to stay in. Once a week (on a set day) they will pm the host/hostess their weight. On the first post of the thread the hostess will report percentages lost toward goal. Colors would change similar to the exercise thread at 25, 50 75 and 100 percent.

The hostess would choose whether there is a QOTD and she can even ask for help with QOTD for that month. The commitment is only one month at a time, so it is much more doable and not such a huge burden on one or two individuals for an entire challenge.

Hosts can rotate on a monthly basis. At the beginning of each month the hostess will be responsible for letting everyone know when the weigh in days will be for that month.

Participants will be responsible for pm'ing the hostess their starting weight and their current weight on the weigh in days. They will also hopefully be motivated to chat about exercise and healthy living. I am hoping this new format will encourage some positive, helpful dialogue.

I have been thinking about this for a while and I think this format will really encourage people to break down their goals into manageable chunks. Folks who may not ever see their name on the top ten list will get to see their progress toward their goal.

And I think it will make it much easier for a host/hostess to manage without getting overwhelmed and dropping out.

Let me know what you think. I would love to take January and get things started.

Maria has suggested "WISH Away the Pounds" as a possible name.

So comments/thoughts?

 

[pjlla]

****Spring thread update/ideas****

Good morning! First let me say, that I am so grateful to the biggest loser threads over the last couple of years. I am much healthier as we approach 2013 than I was when I started in 2010. And while the threads have been great, it is the people and support that matter. I have been chatting with Lisah, Pamela and Dona about ideas for January, since it appears that there does not appear to be anyone jumping on board to host the spring challenge.

Sometimes change is a good thing.

I would like to propose starting in January we try running the weight loss thread a little different.

What I propose is something similar to how the exercise thread is run. Each participant would set a goal for the month of pounds they would like to lose or a maintain range they would like to stay in. Once a week (on a set day) they will pm the host/hostess their weight. On the first post of the thread the hostess will report percentages lost toward goal. Colors would change similar to the exercise thread at 25, 50 75 and 100 percent.

The hostess would choose whether there is a QOTD and she can even ask for help with QOTD for that month. The commitment is only one month at a time, so it is much more doable and not such a huge burden on one or two individuals for an entire challenge.

Hosts can rotate on a monthly basis. At the beginning of each month the hostess will be responsible for letting everyone know when the weigh in days will be for that month.

Participants will be responsible for pm'ing the hostess their starting weight and their current weight on the weigh in days. They will also hopefully be motivated to chat about exercise and healthy living. I am hoping this new format will encourage some positive, helpful dialogue.

I have been thinking about this for a while and I think this format will really encourage people to break down their goals into manageable chunks. Folks who may not ever see their name on the top ten list will get to see their progress toward their goal.

And I think it will make it much easier for a host/hostess to manage without getting overwhelmed and dropping out.

Let me know what you think. I would love to take January and get things started.

Maria has suggested "WISH Away the Pounds" as a possible name.

So comments/thoughts?

This sounds good! If it is a "go", then I volunteer for February!!

**************************

Happy Wednesday friends! Bright and sunny here now after a rainy start.

I got a great run/walk done on the TM at the Y bright and early this morning. I am definitely up for a 16 minute/mile sweep pace if I DID decide to do a half.... that is presuming I could keep it up for the full 13.1 miles. I did a little over 5 miles this morning of a walk/run in 75 minutes (which includede my warm-up and cool down). Not record breaking pace... and not even as fast as I was doing a few summers ago when I was regularly running, but enough to not get swept, right??

I had everything ready for work today but didn't get called. So it is a housework/catch up/etc day. Laundry on the line and I've done a bit of online window shopping and got some stuff on a cyber "wish list" to consider ordering for Christmas. Now to get laundry folded and soup made for lunch.

DD is presenting her senior project to the evaluators today at 4:30.... prayers and PD welcome! I know she will do great.

Anyone tackle yesterday's challenge to try a new vegetable recipe? I am planning to make kale mushroom soup today. I have made it once before but never wrote down the actual recipe, so I will do this today.

Here is a thought for today.....

Are you struggling to stay OP now that the challenge has ended? Or are you struggling with holiday eating and ready to throw in the towel until the new year? Take a minute to look back at your first post on our most recent BL challenge thread? (Or perhaps look back to your first post EVER on a BL thread.) Can you relive the enthusiasm and dedication you had that day? You were ready to ROCK THE WORLD and lose those unwanted pounds! You wanted to be the best version of YOU that you could be! Slim, trim, and most of all HEALTHY!

It isn't too late! You can still do it! You can finish 2012 on a HIGH NOTE (but a lower number ). Take back the control from the food! You are more powerful than it is.

TTYL.........................P

 

[Rose&Mike]

I made a new dip last night with fava beans, tomatoes, onions, cumin, red pepper and olive oil that was pretty good. Not sure if it is worth posting.

But I wanted to comment on kale. I have found that you can put kale in just about anything. My stomach can't handle it raw, but if we cut out the stems, chop it and then lightly steam it in the microwave it is delicious. I have added it to macaroni and cheese, casseroles, bean dishes, etc. I also really like kale chips, which is essentially kale, olive oil and salt roasted. Kale doesn't get as mushy as spinach can sometimes, so as long as you don't overcook, it makes a great addition to lots of foods.

Pamela--Lisa indicated February too, so I am hoping if this is what we go with that one of you will take Feb and one March.

 

[lisah0711]

I got ds14 a Lego Star Wars advent calendar this year. He's not much of a Lego kid, but I thought he might like it since it's Star Wars and they are small projects to build. It is a major hit! I wish I could predict what will and won't be greeted with joy

Sounds like a lot of fun!

I used to be a fancy wrapper too, but had the same problem...no one cared!

Pamela, I'm so glad that your Dad's surgery had a good outcome. Hope allof you are resting and recouperating well.

I think fancy wrapping is like a metaphor for a lot of things in life, we get all wound up about stuff, but no one else cares!

We got that for my sons last year. It was a little hard since the younger one is at college. The older one (26 at the time) opened until the 13th and when the younger one got home he opened the rest. It was very cute and they loved it.

Dona, I am heartened that your guys enjoy Legos still even as adults.

****Spring thread update/ideas****

Good morning! First let me say, that I am so grateful to the biggest loser threads over the last couple of years. I am much healthier as we approach 2013 than I was when I started in 2010. And while the threads have been great, it is the people and support that matter. I have been chatting with Lisah, Pamela and Dona about ideas for January, since it appears that there does not appear to be anyone jumping on board to host the spring challenge.

Sometimes change is a good thing.

I would like to propose starting in January we try running the weight loss thread a little different.

What I propose is something similar to how the exercise thread is run. Each participant would set a goal for the month of pounds they would like to lose or a maintain range they would like to stay in. Once a week (on a set day) they will pm the host/hostess their weight. On the first post of the thread the hostess will report percentages lost toward goal. Colors would change similar to the exercise thread at 25, 50 75 and 100 percent.

The hostess would choose whether there is a QOTD and she can even ask for help with QOTD for that month. The commitment is only one month at a time, so it is much more doable and not such a huge burden on one or two individuals for an entire challenge.

Hosts can rotate on a monthly basis. At the beginning of each month the hostess will be responsible for letting everyone know when the weigh in days will be for that month.

Participants will be responsible for pm'ing the hostess their starting weight and their current weight on the weigh in days. They will also hopefully be motivated to chat about exercise and healthy living. I am hoping this new format will encourage some positive, helpful dialogue.

I have been thinking about this for a while and I think this format will really encourage people to break down their goals into manageable chunks. Folks who may not ever see their name on the top ten list will get to see their progress toward their goal.

And I think it will make it much easier for a host/hostess to manage without getting overwhelmed and dropping out.

Let me know what you think. I would love to take January and get things started.

Maria has suggested "WISH Away the Pounds" as a possible name.

So comments/thoughts?

I really, really, really love this idea! It it much more doable for the hostesses and the format is a big improvement. We all love the BL challenges but the truth of the matter is that, like the show, the format has run it's course. This is a way for us take the best of a BL challenge: the support, the encouragement, the WISHing and make it into something even better.

Check out the exercise thread this month and see how it works. And while you are there, there are still 25 days left to exercise so join up!

This sounds good! If it is a "go", then I volunteer for February!!

**************************

Happy Wednesday friends! Bright and sunny here now after a rainy start.

I got a great run/walk done on the TM at the Y bright and early this morning. I am definitely up for a 16 minute/mile sweep pace if I DID decide to do a half.... that is presuming I could keep it up for the full 13.1 miles. I did a little over 5 miles this morning of a walk/run in 75 minutes (which includede my warm-up and cool down). Not record breaking pace... and not even as fast as I was doing a few summers ago when I was regularly running, but enough to not get swept, right??

Here is a thought for today.....

Are you struggling to stay OP now that the challenge has ended? Or are you struggling with holiday eating and ready to throw in the towel until the new year? Take a minute to look back at your first post on our most recent BL challenge thread? (Or perhaps look back to your first post EVER on a BL thread.) Can you relive the enthusiasm and dedication you had that day? You were ready to ROCK THE WORLD and lose those unwanted pounds! You wanted to be the best version of YOU that you could be! Slim, trim, and most of all HEALTHY!

It isn't too late! You can still do it! You can finish 2012 on a HIGH NOTE (but a lower number ). Take back the control from the food! You are more powerful than it is.

You would totally not get swept at 5 miles in 75 minutes, Pamela.

We had easy dinner last night so the veggies were the good old steamed frozen veggies but I will try something new later this week.

I had kind of lost my mojo for weight loss and running but I think I'm starting to get it back. Definately found my running mojo again. I have a little side challenge going for the month of December with my princesses and that has helped on the weight loss side. One pound down, nine to go.

I will go back and look at some of my old posts. That will be fun. Thanks for the idea, Pamela.

Pamela--Lisa indicated February too, so I am hoping if this is what we go with that one of you will take Feb and one March.

No worries. I'll be happy to take March if you prefer February, Pamela.

 

[pjlla]

I made a new dip last night with fava beans, tomatoes, onions, cumin, red pepper and olive oil that was pretty good. Not sure if it is worth posting.

But I wanted to comment on kale. I have found that you can put kale in just about anything. My stomach can't handle it raw, but if we cut out the stems, chop it and then lightly steam it in the microwave it is delicious. I have added it to macaroni and cheese, casseroles, bean dishes, etc. I also really like kale chips, which is essentially kale, olive oil and salt roasted. Kale doesn't get as mushy as spinach can sometimes, so as long as you don't overcook, it makes a great addition to lots of foods.

Pamela--Lisa indicated February too, so I am hoping if this is what we go with that one of you will take Feb and one March.

The mushroom and kale soup was delicious and SO easy! And I won't say here what things I DO put kale (and other veggies) into, for fear of being discovered by my kiddos! Yes DD, I mean you!

February or March... no difference really for me.

Pamela, I'm so glad that your Dad's surgery had a good outcome. Hope allof you are resting and recouperating well.

Talked with Mom this morning and they both had a good night at the hospital and it was all a "go" for his discharge at 10 am. They had some church friends driving into the city to pick them up. I haven't called the house yet to check on them, but I will in about an hour.

I think fancy wrapping is like a metaphor for a lot of things in life, we get all wound up about stuff, but no one else cares!

Which is why I am trying to stop stressing about getting housework done on my mental schedule.... no one else seems to care or notice!!

I really, really, really love this idea! It it much more doable for the hostesses and the format is a big improvement. We all love the BL challenges but the truth of the matter is that, like the show, the format has run it's course. This is a way for us take the best of a BL challenge: the support, the encouragement, the WISHing and make it into something even better.

I agree.... as long as I have my Disney-lovin' friends here with me, I don't really care about what the format looks like. Let's keep it easy and friendly and inviting!!

Check out the exercise thread this month and see how it works. And while you are there, there are still 25 days left to exercise so join up!

You had to remind me, huh??

You would totally not get swept at 5 miles in 75 minutes, Pamela.

I guess the question is if I could keep it up for the full duration. I think I could.

We had easy dinner last night so the veggies were the good old steamed frozen veggies but I will try something new later this week.

I had kind of lost my mojo for weight loss and running but I think I'm starting to get it back. Definately found my running mojo again. I have a little side challenge going for the month of December with my princesses and that has helped on the weight loss side. One pound down, nine to go.

Glad you are getting it back. I am DEFINITELY getting my exercise/running mojo back after a several month absence... and it feels good!!


I will go back and look at some of my old posts. That will be fun. Thanks for the idea, Pamela.

You're welcome!

No worries. I'll be happy to take March if you prefer February, Pamela.

I'll take either... your choice.... or we could do "rock, paper, scissor, lizard, spock" for it!

*****************

WOW.... this day absolutely FLEW by!! I need to hit the shower NOW and get ready to head out. I made three large and one mini healthy meatloaf with some hamburg I got a GREAT DEAL on Monday night. Plus I cooked up some of it and made taco meat.... so four meals done! We'll have one meatloaf tonight and the other two (and the mini) will be in the freezer. Plus I have at least two servings of the kale and mushroom soup left for lunch later this week. I'll share the recipe for it later but I"ll say now.... SUPER easy!

I also managed to get TWO loads of laundry on the line! Guess Mother Nature is trying to make up for being very MEAN to me last week and raining on a full load of jeans! I'll pull them in after my shower and with the wind and a bit of sun today hopefully they are dry!

I finally did just a BIT of winter decorating and put some fresh greens in the planters in front of the garage. I'll add some red berries if I can find some on the side of the road this weekend.

Tonight's swim practice is still up in the air.... it will depend on how late her senior project presentation runs. I'll pop on here later if I am trying to kill time at the Y. If I am home I probably won't come on, as we really need a FAMILY evening together if possible!

TTYL..................................P

 

[cclovesdis]

Very busy-again! I had my blood work on Thursday and now have some of the results. My fasting glucose, glucose tolerance, and insulin levels are all normal. I am very excited about the my fasting glucose being normal. I had mixed feelings about not having hypoglycemia. I have definitely had some low blood sugar readings. I had a med check today and my doctor and I agreed that the test results are good to have, but that we would not forget that I've had multiple low blood sugar readings. I feel much better now that he and I decided that. I won't have the results of the allergy testing until I see the allergist next week.

Pamela: I was so worried when I heard about DS. I now have to carry an EpiPen and it hit home. I made brownies yesterday for the potluck luncheon today (I brought lots of GF food for myself too.) and I touched some of them taking them out of the pan and I started itching. The EpiPen is supposed to be because of the "latex" allergy. No one knows what it is I'm allergic to, but it's in latex gloves, so I'm told to say I'm allergic to latex.

Rose: I know a kid with Celiac disease. Her mom told me that Ghirardelli is not gluten free. I actually buy Enjoy Life because I'm lactose intolerant. They are GF/CF, soy, and peanut/tree nut free.

Princess 2014: That would be about 6 months before I turn 30. Definitely something for me to think about.

Hope everyone is doing well! Love the idea for the spring!

 

[donac]

I love the idea of the new format. I would gladly take May. My kids take the AP test on the 8th and it gets easier after that.

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

I used to be a fancy wrapper too, but had the same problem...no one cared!

I'll think on it and see if I can come up with any gift suggestions for the GF. I think usually they want something "cute" or fun and something special (like a small piece of jewelry) from the boyfriend.

DS is making her a necklace, something about a song they listen too. GF said she would thrilled with a Bath and Body Works GC, but I'd like to get something for her to unwrap. I was thinking of some nice fuzzy pajama bottoms or something. She is going with us to the big family party on the 23rd and there will be stuff to unwrap for all of the great grands, my 4 included so I want her to have something under the tree.

****Spring thread update/ideas****

Maria has suggested "WISH Away the Pounds" as a possible name.

So comments/thoughts?

Love the idea!!! We do the same thing on the scrap boards. We set a goal of the month and then we update weekly, daily, whenever really. We also do a similar thing on the budget boards Called the no buy challenge.

WISH away the pounds - January Edition

Also on the scrap board we have a Scrap page annual thread where we add the monthly goals up and see if we reach our annual goal. We could do that too. That might be fun for the exercise challenge too.

Here's a link to that thread:
http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2845619

I got a great run/walk done on the TM at the Y bright and early this morning. I am definitely up for a 16 minute/mile sweep pace if I DID decide to do a half.... that is presuming I could keep it up for the full 13.1 miles. I did a little over 5 miles this morning of a walk/run in 75 minutes (which includede my warm-up and cool down). Not record breaking pace... and not even as fast as I was doing a few summers ago when I was regularly running, but enough to not get swept, right??

You slay me!!!! 5 miles in 75 minutes?!?! Can I hate you a little bit right now?? No, really, I love you! You are a great motivator!!!

What 1/2 are you thinking about doing?

Princess 2014: That would be about 6 months before I turn 30. Definitely something for me to think about.

CC I'm glad your tests came back normal, hopefully you get more answers soon.

Princess 2014 huh? I will have just turned 40....hmmmmm.... If you decide to do it, let me know.
Now if we could convince Pamela to run it too, we might just have a little running group going.

 

[lisah0711]

I'll take either... your choice.... or we could do "rock, paper, scissor, lizard, spock" for it!

Okay I'll take February and you can take March. Rose is doing January and Dona is doing May -- that leaves April and we are covered for the next several months.

I love the idea of the new format. I would gladly take May. My kids take the AP test on the 8th and it gets easier after that.

It will be fun and different for sure!

Princess 2014: That would be about 6 months before I turn 30. Definitely something for me to think about.

Hope everyone is doing well! Love the idea for the spring!

Glad that your test results were good, CC. Princesspalooza will be a lot of fun.

Princess 2014 huh? I will have just turned 40....hmmmmm.... If you decide to do it, let me know.
Now if we could convince Pamela to run it too, we might just have a little running group going.

Actually Pamela said she is considering it and the original seven BL princesses from 2011 are going to celebrate mikamah's 50th birthday. If you, Pamela and CC go that makes at least 10 of us -- plus our other 17,000 some odd friends! Think about it Buffy!

 

[lisah0711]

Another thought from my friends at sparkpeople.com

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

Actually Pamela said she is considering it and the original seven BL princesses from 2011 are going to celebrate mikamah's 50th birthday. If you, Pamela and CC go that makes at least 10 of us -- plus our other 17,000 some odd friends! Think about it Buffy!

Hmmmmmmm, a 30th, 40th and 50th birthday??? I am soooooo in!!!
That would be a blast and a half!!

 

[Rose&Mike]

CC--I am not sure where your friend got her info, but ghirardeli is g-f. Godiva is not. Nothing made by godiva is considered safe. Ghirardeli only makes one product that has gluten in it, and as long as you avoid the milk chocolate version of their chocolates, it seems to be fine. I have never had a problem with any of their dark chocolate and bake with it on the rare occasion I make something baked.

I just had a craptastic day. I have been sitting here thinking of all the bad for me foods I would eat if I could.

Anyhow, I am happy to see all the positive responses to the idea for the new challenge.

Buffy--the year long goal sounds, interesting, but I am not volunteering to deal with it. Maybe once we get going, but for now I think we should take it one month at a time and see how it goes.

Have a good night.