Between the BLs (Biggest Loser) Summer Challenge 2010 Part 2

[pjlla]

Pamela--I think you are doing great with your running! And I really like the unwise, better, best. As for the spluges, I have learned to eat french fries (and other splurges) and not feel guilty by telling myself a little tastes good, a lot just makes me feel yucky. If I ate them everyday, even if it were only a few, eventually I would feel yucky, and if I eat a lot I am guaranteed to feel cruddy. But a few, are just right. Kind of like Goldilocks!

And thanks for the congrats. I am getting more pleased, the more I think about it. I really was in shock yesterday, I didn't even post about it!

I do try to have small splurges in moderation at various points... and I have learned to enjoyed more healthy splurges.... like an iced decaf with sugar-free vanilla syrup from McD instead of a mocha. I was just feeling a bit of guilt over eating the ENTIRE pizza... a splurge would have been to order it and eat half.... but eating the entire thing was just an UNWISE decision! And of course I "paid" for it by having to eat very low points on Wednesday and Thursday to make up for it. But obviously I made it work.

Last night we met a large group of swim families who are camping locally for dinner (we opted not to go camping).... I knew that the eating would be difficult, so I tried to limit my splurge to one s'more... but ended up with a cookie and brownie too (and the darn cookie wasn't worth the calories... should have thrown it in the fire after the first bite!). But I didn't have any liquor and I didn't go overboard with dinner... plus I had eaten very light earlier in the day. I guess I made a BETTER choice.... not the BEST choice, but definitely not a totally UNWISE choice.

Pamela, I want to comment on this, but I'm afraid that it's not gonna come off right. I don't know you personally and I have no idea if you are getting too thin or if you still have a little further to go. I do know that in the low 130's (right??), you are definitely sporting a healthy BMI. You know your body better than anyone. If you're genuinely concerned about maybe taking it too far, check with your doctor.

And that is all disclaimer for this: I HATE when people make comments about "getting too thin".

We live in a overweight world and we are so used to seeing overweight people. Overweight is the norm in our current society. So, when we see thin (healthy) people, they do look VERY thin. And, to our friends and family who have known us fat, thin and anywhere in between, the "too thin" perception is based on their memory of when we were fat. Chances are, if you met a person today for the first time, they would think you look really fantastic and assume you had always been thin! If that person were larger than you, they'd want to be like you. If that person were formerly fat and smaller than you, they'd be completely wrapped up in how small they are rather than having any opinion whatsoever about what size you are. If that person was one of those evil () always-been-thin types and smaller than you, they wouldn't be comparing or noticing size at all because it's not something they think about on a daily basis. In other words, unless you look emaciated to a total stranger, then "too thin" is just something people say when they wish they looked like you do.

Last year, someone said to me "You're getting so small, you're gonna blow away" (I was about 5 pounds smaller than where I am now; funny how they're not saying anything now...) - people who I think shouldn't have said ANYTHING. I know that some people thrive on compliments about their weight loss and that's great for them. But, *I* am not one of those people. I mean, it's really sweet coming from friends and family, but when some random co-worker (who I don't even actually know) comments on my weight loss, I really just don't get it. "Wow, total stranger, you've lost a lot of weight." I know they mean well. I really do. But don't they know that they may as well be saying "Wow, you used to be so fat!"? Honestly, why can't they all just say "Hey, you look great!" (or just keep their mouth shut entirely) and we can all pretend that I wasn't ever fat.

But, like I said... that's just me and my crazy little rant. I'm a little nuts. I'm okay with that.

Thanks for saying all that... I really appreciate it. You're right.... since this is the slimmest I've ever been as an adult, people are very used to seeing me much larger.... so this probably looks too thin to some people (like my Mom). And honestly, I think that there is some resentment from my SIL (my mother said this to me a while ago and I totally rejected the idea, but I think she was onto something).

SIL is small and petite and pretty and has probably never been more than 10 pounds overweight in her entire life. I would say she averages being about a size 4-6 petite. But last Christmas she showed up looking slimmer than ever and when we mentioned it she said she had lost 11 pounds. She, of course, looked terrific and had lots of new clothes, etc. My Mom, on an aside, told me that she (SIL) was probably feeling "funny" about me getting the attention for being thin(er) and was feeling some competition about it. Like I said, I totally rejected that thinking.

But sure enough, on vacation a few weeks ago with my family, my SIL made the comment in front of a bunch of people about "well, I used to always be the thinnest in the family, but I guess not any more now that you've lost all this weight." She said it with a smile and a chuckle, but obviously I've hit a nerve there.

Honestly, it wasn't something I was striving for. I wasn't looking to be the "thinnest" in the family, I am certainly NOT the thinnest, and at almost 5 inches taller, there is no way I will ever be the same size as SIL. I feel badly that she seems to feel that she lost some sort of "status" position in the family by not being the thinnest (in her mind anyhow). She has SO MANY other great qualities that I think of when I think of her.... why, as women, do we have to get so much of our self-worth from our outward appearance!??

ANYHOW, I think that the "too thin" comment from my SIL probably stemmed from this situation.

You're right.... I am in the low 130's... and my current goal weight (which will REMAIN my lowest goal) is 128. I still have significant "love handles" and "spare tire"...... whatever is left of them when I hit 128 I will just have to learn to live with. And I will certainly not hesitate to RAISE my goal to 130 or 132 or even 135 if I find it far too difficult to maintain at 128.

I KNOW that for my health and age 128 is the lowest I should try to achieve.

Thanks for your wise words and concern.

I have had a really hard time this week with being *overly* tired. It’s like I just cannot get enough rest? I literally have to drag myself out of bed almost in tears because I’m so tired – and I’ve slept in every day this week. It’s weird, and there isn’t anything I can contribute it to. I have to shake this off, school starts the week after next and DS can’t be late to school ‘cause he’s a patrol this year. My plan for tonight is to get my run in and have dinner with my parents, come home, do a load of laundry and go to sleep. I will not set an alarm for tomorrow and I’ll get everything ready for DS to just get himself a bowl of cereal if he gets hungry in the morning so he doesn’t come in and wake me up. I hope I can like reset myself or something and get back to my schedule next week. I hope…

Anyways, have a wonderful weekend everyone!

Bree

Hormones. Where are you in your cycle? That makes a HUGE difference in my energy level. Hopefully this feeling will pass in a few days.

My AHA moment. I used to think that I this figured out and that I could control my weight with just diet. The reality is that I don't have it figured out at all. Hitting 40 almost a year ago has brought about body changes that I just wasn't prepared for. Things just don't want to stay where they should and look lumpy. I really need to create a new plan for the next challenge. I know that I need to give up diet soda, but I'm addicted. I also need to find some sort of exercise that I can live with. I need to tone my body and if I don't start now things are going to get increasingly more loose. It's time to take action. I think having the next challenge start as school starts may be helpful since our schedules will drastically change anyway. Hopefully I'll land a job which will help financially and emotionally.

Ideally I'd like to lose what I gained on vacation before this challenge ends, but 14 lbs is a lot to lose even with my decent loss last week I don't think I'll make it. I'm not giving up, just being realistic.

Yup....I was always an "all diet, no exercise" gal in the past.... and in my 20's and 30's I could get away with it. Honestly, when I just made an EFFORT to lose weight in the past, I could easily lose 2 pounds a week. But hitting 40 and that all changed. Plus my mindset changed. I KNEW I needed to be FIT and not just slim. And I wanted to set a better example for my kids.

Diet soda is a tough one to give up.... but like Rose, I also gave it up cold-turkey on day one of my new healthy living plan (01/02/2008). Fortunately I was strictly a caffeine-free person, so no issues there, but it was still a habit I had to break. I no longer even buy it for DH (trying to help him break his addiction). I have the occasional diet coke while at a restaurant, but for the most part I stick with water and seltzer. I don't miss it at all... and I know that I have given up poisoning my body with the chemicals, preservatives, and artificial sweeteners it is made with! Maybe if you think about it that way it would help!

Connie--I am not a big fan of this comment--"you did it so fast, I want to do what you did. You made it look so easy." Hello?? 8 months. And what did you think I was doing when I said I was going to the Y after work, and before work and on the weekends?! I don't want to hear I look thin, I want to hear I look athletic! That is a much better complement/comment in my opinion!

Just talked to DS and he's doing well. He said everyone is hanging out in their apartment this year, which is good, but I guess his roomates are not quite as into keeping tidy as he is. Not sure what we are doing tonight, but If I don't talk to you all again, have a good evening! I'll be back in the morning after our long run--12-13 tomorrow. I'm not feeling too excited about it right now, but hoping it goes well!

Glad your DS is doing well.... maybe he will have to ask that his roommates stick to some sort of shared cleaning schedule??

I agree.... I would love it if someone said I looked "FIT" or "ATHLETIC". And yup, I've been at this for 2 years and 8 months... nothing fast (or easy)about it!!

Finally....I totally get you about being a bit scared about maintaining. I know that I have reached my goal at weight watchers and I am thinking that it might be good to lose a few more pounds. The hard thing is though the idea of trying to STAY this way! I have to figure out how to trust the habits I have made and have more faith in myself. I also have to learn how to not let myself get too far off track and start gaining weight again. I think when I was losing weight, I knew what it took to get it done. Now that I am trying to maintain this weight, I have lessons to learn. There are more maintainers now though so I hope we can help one another figure out what it takes to stay as we are.

Hope everyone is having a good Friday. My day is filled with stress but I am working on dealing with it in positive ways. I have been waiting for a call from a principal who has a position open...no call. My DS has dance try-outs in an hour to see if he can get a spot on the competitive dance group again. He would like to move up a group but I don't know if he will make that line or if he will have to stay on the lower line. I am crossing my fingers for him. My DD has her dance try-outs tomorrow. We will hope to know by Sunday if they have made their dance groups again. I will be having pizza (a light one) for supper and maybe even some wine. My goal is to try to get to bed early so that I can go for a long run tomorrow morning.

Later....Jen

Not sure if I will ever HIT maintenance at this rate (lose 5, gain 5, lose 5, gain 5), but when/if I ever do, I'm sure there will be a big learning curve involved with STAYING there!

Best of luck to your kids.... hope they make the groups that they want.

Here is Saturday's QOTD, because I probably won't get back on until lunch time.

QOTD--I love summer, and hate to see it end, but after all the heat we've had, I'm looking forward to some cooler temps. What three things are you looking forward to about fall?

#1. Fall apples.... I adore fresh apples and "stored" apples are never the same.

#2. Fall cleaning.... I feel much more compelled to clean and organize in the Fall than I do in the Spring.... some sort of "caveman" nesting instinct... preparing my home for the coming winter sort of thing.

#3. Nice sleeping weather.

Now, overall I think Fall is beautiful, etc. But I've NEVER been able to enjoy it because I know what it brings.... WINTER!! And I truly HATE, HATE, HATE winter. So I have always had this love/hate relationship with Fall. I can see the appeal in it... it is beautiful and cool, etc. But it is truly the bearer of bad news.

I am in a funk or something. It all started when someone at school that is always running when I am made the comment that she had hit 130 that morning. Made me depressed. I am almost 30 pounds above that. Yes, I am at least 8 inches taller than her, and bigger framed, but still. Made me feel like a phony. As in, "I'm not getting thin. I weigh 157 pounds." Got depressed.

It's strange, I look at my reflection all the time now, trying to assess how I really look. I am getting lots of compliments, and that feels great, and sometimes I feel decent. Like I look in the mirror and think "looking good" (how vain is that?) And when you guys talk about wanting to look athletic? nope, I want to look thin! I think it's because I never have. Sometimes I can look in the mirror and see a thin person, but most of the time my gaze goes right to my midsection, and I am disgusted.

I am really in a quandry. I want to loose at least 9 more pounds. Yet, everything I loose seems to come from my head to my bust, and stop. My collarbones are really out, almost too much so. My ribcage is showing above my bust. I'm scared that if that keeps up, I'm going to look sickly. I need it to go away from my midsection.

Okay, enough of that. Spent yesterday cleaning like madwoman again. Organized both bathroom cabinets, washed the bathroom walls, and organized the laundry area cabinets and shelves. Changed sheets, dusted, vacuumed, cleaned glass. Still have to vacuum downstairs today, but DH is going to weedeat, so I wanted to wait until he finished tracking mess in! Need to sweep and mop, then the weekly stuff will be done. I am in this mode, I think, because I know once my class starts back up for the fall, and AK is in gym 3 nights a week again, I won't have much time, so I need to clean out now so it won't take so long!

And for some reason, I just can't relax or sleep. I am OCD about getting up at 5, regardless of when I go to bed, it's been midnight for about 2 weeks. It's like I am working against some non-existent clock to get as much done as possible??

Plus, we are having a yard sale labor day weekend, so I am trying to get stuff out for that. That's on my list for today. A girl at work wants first dibs on Sophie's clothes for her DD, so I am getting together stuff for her, too.

I am hoping for 9 miles this morning. But, my tummy is already not happy from the pizza last night, and my brain's not in it. I need to psych myself up. 18 laps around the trail, 1.5 hours, just doesn't sound fun this am. Going to see how far I can go, though!

I'll check back in later!
Happy Saturday!
Taryn

Sounds like lots of us are having body distortion issues, as well as "how thin is too thin" issues. Maybe we need to do some more talking about it. Taryn... not sure how tall you are, but assuming you are at least 5'6" and medium to large frame, 157 sounds GREAT! I can remember being 160 in my early 20's, pre-pregnancy days and I looked pretty darn good. You need to stop comparing yourself to others. Easier said than done, but there it is. We'll talk more about it later, okay??

Here I am. Dropping in for a drive by to get subscribed. At y parents' house till monday. my beswt friend is on her way down for abeach day. Probably won't be checking in again till Teus or so. Have a great weekend everybody

Thanks for the quick stop by. See your Tuesday!

Just another quick post before I soak in the tub!

I forgot to weigh yesterday until after I'd drank two big mugs of coffee, so I weighed this am.

DOWN 3 this week! 155..... I thought it would be close to 2, but glad to pull out 3, after TOM and all! 2 weeks until my birthday.. wonder what I'll weigh when I turn 35????

Did my 9 miles, and it was tough! I had planned on adding a mile each week, but I think I'm going to stick with 9 one more week. About 6 miles in, my abs started killing me. Not stomach, but muscles, just above my belly button. Must have had some weird form thing going on.... Calves are trying to cramp now. Time for my muscle relaxing bath salts!

Have a great day!
Taryn

I can't imagine getting to 9 miles.... right now I am trying to wrap my brain around attempting 6 miles tomorrow. Hope the bath was good.

We are back from our run and brunch. We got up at 5:40 (slept in a little) and were running by 6:30. Good thing we got up. The first 3 miles weren't bad, just muggy, the next 3 miles we were deep in the park and in the middle of a thunderstorm. Not fun. Mike kept saying, surely the lightning will hit the trees and not us. The next 4 miles were light rain. at this point we were running the 1.2 mile loop where we park. At mile 10 it started pouring and thundering again. It did this until 12 or so. We finished up 13.11 miles in 2:40. Slow, but I was pretty happy. Was running in a thunderstorm a good choice--nope. And I swear if we didn't have a race in two weeks, we would have canned it and gone home, but this is our last long run before our race. I am now going to go take a nap! I hate getting up that early. I will check back in later. Hope everyone is doing something fun today!

Impressive! I would have spotted the lightning and headed right for the car!!

It's been very quiet on here today. Mike and I went to dinner tonight. We ended up going later than we planned, because a neighbor stopped by. By the time we got to the restaurant I was doing a major low blood sugar thing. I had to ask the waitress for a glass of oj because the room started spinning. I have not yet figured out what and how to eat on these long run days. I feel like I eat all day, but I still find myself crashing around dinnertime, so obviously I'm not eating enough. Next time I guess I'll track and put it in spark people and see if I can find a pattern.

I think we are going to watch a movie and go to bed early. We are both tired.

Have a nice evening.

I do occasionally have those low blood sugar moments and OJ is exactly what I need. I used to tell my Mom that I felt "green" when it happened (sort of like a wave of nausea... sweating, dizzy, feeling near blacking out)... but sitting down and having a few sips of OJ always brought me back to normal. Glad you're okay.

Well.... I've chatted away all of my extra time this morning! I need to get the family up and moving for church. Dark and cloudy here right now. No exercise plans in place for today.... I may decide to do a short run or brisk walk later if the weather holds, but my main plan to do some cooking and get some stuff in the freezer for when my schedule starts getting SUPER crazy in a few weeks. Usually DD helps with these weekend cooking days, but she will be with a friend today, so I'll just pump up the Disney tunes and cook myself up a fine mess!

I was super productive around the house yesterday (the cooler Fall like weather really does bring on a Fall cleaning and organizing vibe with me!). Share more about it later if I have time.

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

 

[flipflopmom]

So, in my few minutes of spare time, I decided to go back and look at the frame size calculator. Thanks to P's comment. I know I am a large frame, my fingers don't touch on the smallest part of my wrist.

I used this website.
http://www.healthcentral.com/diet-exercise/ideal-body-weight-3146-143.html?2,5,7,155,3

Put in my height, 5'7 and weight 155. I get this message.

Ideal weight range is 158 - 173.8 lbs. (71.8 - 79 kg.).
You are underweight.

Um... WHAT????? I've never seen those words before.

Going to check some more....

Okay, found another, it says 143-163 for my height/frame, another 134-163, another 143-163 with ideal weight being 148.5. and final 135-155. My goal is 148, which seems to be in the middle of most, so I think I'll stick with that.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Connie--Congrats on 7 miles and hope the sunburn doesn't hold you back from 8!

CC--that sounds like a good dinner at Cheesecake Factory! As for TOM--I have been so irregular this summer, that I never know when it's coming. The only way I can tell is I usually get very weepy. Hang in there.

Taryn--yep, the thunderstorm running was stupid, but we really thought it would hold off, based on the weather report when we left the house. Then when it started at mile 3 or so, we were that far from the car and in the middle of the park. Miles 10-12 I really have no excuse for, except for we're both stubborn and wanted to finish. Surprisingly we weren't the only people out there with no common sense. We saw this other couple for the entire run! Glad you got some rest yesterday. Look at Galloway plans, as long as you aren't running for time, but completion, he thinks three days a week of running is enough. I won't run more than 3 days a week, too afraid of injuries.

Pamela--it definitely sounds like your Sil is struggling with some stuff. I have four sisters and while we love each other, things seem to often be a competition. And I hate it that as women at least we tie our self image with our body image, but we do. And I do. I am working on that. I think when I was not healthy due to my poor choices, it was reasonable to be frustrated with myself. But if I am making good choices, I need to be happy and learn to love the body I've been given. Exercise has really been helping me with this, and I am learning to be very grateful for my strong healthy body. I am also learning that I have limitations, which are ok as well. It's been an interesting process. Have fun with the cooking today!

Good morning all!

I found this article at Healthyplace.com--title--Body Distortion a Growing Problem Among Women and Men. Here's an excerpt:

Karen Ritter suggested that people should practice being nice to their bodies and respect themselves and others for reasons other than appearance.

"The keys to having a good body image are to treat your body with respect, give it enough rest, fuel it with a variety of foods, exercise, and resist the pressure to judge yourself and others based on weight, shape or size."

Negative body Image is ...
A distorted perception of your shape ---- you perceive parts of your body unlike they really are
You are convinced that only other people are attractive and that your body size or shape is a sign of personal failure.
You feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body.
You feel uncomfortable and awkward in your body.

Positive body Image is ...
A clear, true perception of your shape ---- you see various parts of your body as they really are.

You celebrate and appreciate your natural body shape and you understand that a person's physical appearance says very little about their character and value as a person.
You feel proud and accepting of your unique body and refuse to spend an unreasonable amount of time worrying about food, weight and calories.
You feel comfortable and confident in your body.


QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

Despite the fact that I am at the high end of maintaining and stressing a little, I am going to take my scheduled day off today. I know I need the rest. I am also going to plan my meals for the week because I know it will be a busy week and that I need good healthy food to get through the week and to get ready for our race in two weeks. As for part two of the question, I identify with some of both the negative and positve signs. I'm going to think about this part a little more, and comment on it later.

Have a great day everyone.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

I am SO sunburned!!

Hope your feeling better today. I did the same thing when we went to a water park in july, I lathered up everyone else, didnt worry about myself and was toasted by the end of the day. At least you had a fun time! Great job on getting the run in too

Am I the only one who doesn't like TOM?

I hate TOM and Im in the middle of it right now. Hope it goes away fast. I feel miserable.... Good job on the eating choices at dinner. You are doing so well! Keep up the good work.

Well, yesterday was pretty much a bust. Got out 2 bags of clothes to take to my friend to go through for her DD, but I still have 2 tubs that might have the sizes she wanted to go through. Never vaccuumed, or mopped. DH got into yard work, so I helped him, and we put down some new pavers by the back patio, pulled weeds, and he trimmed bushes and we picked up the trimmings. He even cooked dinner! I cleaned up some last night, and finished washing pots this am. At 7:00, I curled up on the couch and watched House Hunter's International, then he wanted to watch a college football preview that came on at 7:30. Gave him the remote, closed my eyes, and woke up at 11:30 when he told me to go to bed. He made sure the girls' had their bath, cleaned up what they had been playing with.... I don't know how I slept through all that, but I must have needed it.

I did the same thing last night except the kids were already asleep. Dh and I were watching tv, I must have fallen asleep on the couch...didnt even realize I was that tired. It was 1230 and I woke up all confused. Sometimes your body just knows when you need to sleep I guess. At least you got all the yard work done yesterday! I wouldnt call it a total bust.

So, in my few minutes of spare time, I decided to go back and look at the frame size calculator.
Ideal weight range is 158 - 173.8 lbs. (71.8 - 79 kg.).
You are underweight.

I checked mine and it said I am overweight by 20.8lbs. I want to loose 32 more which would have me falling right into the healthy weight range. I guess Im on target. Thanks for sharing. I think your goal weight sounds fine too. I have a BMI chart at work and I am pretty sure your goal weight would still have you in the healthy category not underweight.

Last night.
We ended up taking the kids to a carnival that was going on in our area. They rode a few rides and played a few games. They had a great time. I made dinner before we went so that I didnt have to eat any bad choices. Dh and the kids had ice cream for a snack and I choose a roasted piece of corn, light on the butter with some seasoning.

Today we will head to my nana's for some family time. Otherwise no other plans. I need to get a long run in today. I feel like I slacked alot this week on running....just had so much going on in the evenings this week. They are calling for thunderstorms throughout the day so I have to make sure I pick a good time to go.

I will check back in later....have a great day!

 

[cclovesdis]

Taryn-You have done nothing but crack me up this morning. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

TOM really brings out the best in me and boy was I feeling low this morning. I owe you, just like I owe all my BL friends.

My parents went to church and I read the Sunday paper. Ended up taking some Tylenol. I have no idea what is up with this on again/off again cramping, stomache-like thing I have going on, but I don't like it. Ok, I sound like a 3-year-old.

I WILL exercise today. I'll check back in later.

CC

 

[cclovesdis]

I guess I have some catching up to do! It's been a busy morning here today.

CC--that sounds like a good dinner at Cheesecake Factory! As for TOM--I have been so irregular this summer, that I never know when it's coming. The only way I can tell is I usually get very weepy. Hang in there.

Good morning all!

I found this article at Healthyplace.com--title--Body Distortion a Growing Problem Among Women and Men.

QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

Thanks Rose! I'm not usually so like this with TOM. I think that's why it's bothering me so much. More psychological than anything else.

QOTD: Love the article! It really got me thinking. My body image is so distorted. I think ordering a size 16 for a bridesmaid dress really took a toll. And now, I'm even bigger than I was then. I have all these plans to spend my week exercising. Now, I'm not so sure that's such a great idea. I was hoping to do 2 workouts a day (Wii and gym) today through Friday. I just feel so unhealthy. I'm out of breath walking up stairs sometimes. I really need to get in shape. But, until I feel better this morning, I don't plan to exercise. I don't want to get sicker than I already am.

Not sure that I really answered the QOTD the way it was intended, but putting all of this out there really helped. I definitely see lots of signs of having negative body image in me. I know I need to work on that.

I hate TOM and Im in the middle of it right now. Hope it goes away fast. I feel miserable.... Good job on the eating choices at dinner. You are doing so well! Keep up the good work.

Thanks Lindsay! Dinner was really good! I didn't feel guilty about my choices at all. Thanks for constantly reminding me that I'm on the ball! I sincerely mean that! Lately, I've really needed a lot of support. It's been great checking in here and seeing the compliments, support, etc. I wouldn't be doing nearly as well if it wasn't for you and all my BL friends!

Taryn-I had the cameras, electronic handprinting, you name it, I probably had it. Luckily, I couldn't see the cameras! My biggest issue was how loud it was. They provided headphones-thank goodness!

 

[flipflopmom]

Taryn-I had the cameras, electronic handprinting, you name it, I probably had it. Luckily, I couldn't see the cameras! My biggest issue was how loud it was. They provided headphones-thank goodness!

When I took the GRE, I think they stopped just shy of a body cavity search. Sheez.

Really gotta get going, now!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

I really do want to hear from everyone on this one. Please let me know if you have any "name that challenge" suggestions and which measurements you'd like to see included in your total. Pick your top EIGHT measurement preferences:

* Bust
* Chest
* Waist
* Hips
* Thighs (one or both)
* Calves (one or both)
* Upper Arms (one or both)
* Forearms (one or both)
* Neck
* Belly (This one's for you Taryn! I had left it out because I was thinking the waist/hips combination would suffice for an *overall* measurement, but I'll put it up here just in case anyone else would like to see it included.)

The idea is to keep it simple while getting a good SAMPLING to total up and track. Keep in mind that no single measurement indicates your weight/fat loss - your waist measurement, for instance, is not as important on it's own as the overall picture of your body composition. Totaling up the measurements is where you'll see the overall inch loss.

Hi Connie!

I'll measure whatever, I do have a suggestion for the name -- which you can feel free to discard! It's the "Whittle Inches Now!" or "WIN!" challenge -- you can call the participants Winners, and remind the Winners it's time to send in their measurements.

Back later to answer some QOTDs and check in, my shoulder is killing me so I just took an Aleve. No 10M this morning...

Maria

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

The stars, moons and planet have all perfectly aligned this week-end and everyone in the family is on a cleaning, tossing, organizing kick. Even DS is into it helping me sort clothes to donate and organizing his books by subject, author and title. So I've been taking advantage of it by doing a lot this week-end. It will be nice to enjoy our little nest this winter.

You will do it Lisa. The princess is just over 6 months away that will give you positive motivation By the way where are you staying?

I'm staying at AKL Jambo in a savanna studio so anyone who wants to come visit and see the animals is welcome to do so. It was the only DVC resort on the list but we own there and I do enjoy it alot. Where do you think that you will stay, Lindsay?

Here is Saturday's QOTD, because I probably won't get back on until lunch time.

QOTD--I love summer, and hate to see it end, but after all the heat we've had, I'm looking forward to some cooler temps. What three things are you looking forward to about fall?

Fall is one of my favorite seasons, right after summer, so I don't mind when it arrives. I look forward to: cooler temperatures, our anniversary and putting up the Halloween decorations!

Two quick answers

Lots of Aha moments for me

- When I get hungry at night, I CAN go back to sleep.
- I can live without salad dressing (just a little salsa instead)
- "Cheat" days don't work for me so I just don't do them.
- I can live (for the most part) without meat, refined sugar, peanut butter, and fried foods.

As to fall, it's my favorite season here (Destin area).
- The tourists leave.
- The weather gets cooler.
- Saints football!
- Planning for our biggest vacation of the year. We go on vacation for all of our winter break.

Nice to see you, MB!

Wednesday, I stress binged. Thursday, I punished myself by being super strict. Yesterday, I stress binged. Today, I'm punishing myself again. I am so hoping that once my job calms down I can regain control. However, the kids school and activities will be starting up. I'm really worried about being able to maintain.

Carmiedog. You have a lot of self-control. Aren't you the one who is always baking and not tasting? Obviously the job stress is what gets you. It may take longer than you want but I know you will figure out a way to deal with it, too. Can you take a little break at work, i.e. a short walk or even hide out in the bathroom and do some deep breathing? Hope things calm down for you soon.

Tracey, hope that sciatica gets better soon!

Taryn and Lindsay... thanks so much for your input. I have made notes in my handy dandy new spreadsheet and I am now awaiting further replies from our fellow participants. I'm really looking forward to the new challenge.

I really do want to hear from everyone on this one. Please let me know if you have any "name that challenge" suggestions and which measurements you'd like to see included in your total. Pick your top EIGHT measurement preferences:

* Bust
* Chest
* Waist
* Hips
* Thighs (one or both)
* Calves (one or both)
* Upper Arms (one or both)
* Forearms (one or both)
* Neck
* Belly (This one's for you Taryn! I had left it out because I was thinking the waist/hips combination would suffice for an *overall* measurement, but I'll put it up here just in case anyone else would like to see it included.)

The idea is to keep it simple while getting a good SAMPLING to total up and track. Keep in mind that no single measurement indicates your weight/fat loss - your waist measurement, for instance, is not as important on it's own as the overall picture of your body composition. Totaling up the measurements is where you'll see the overall inch loss.

Thanks for all your hard work on our new component, Connie! I'm voting for neck, bust, waist, hips, both thighs, both upper arms.

Feeling so much better. It's half an hour later. Uh, ok, yeah? I'll take it anyway.

Have a great day everyone!

Will try to check back later, hopefully after a trip to the gym!

Glad that you are feeling better, CC!

pjlla, I remember your SIL from before. You've done a great job of not allowing her problems to become yours!

I hope I can remember how to knit if I pick it back up this winter! This is a stressful time, but I am determined to make it!

, Taryn, you will make it and I'm sorry that this is such a stressful time for you.

I found this article at Healthyplace.com--title--Body Distortion a Growing Problem Among Women and Men. Here's an excerpt:

Karen Ritter suggested that people should practice being nice to their bodies and respect themselves and others for reasons other than appearance.

"The keys to having a good body image are to treat your body with respect, give it enough rest, fuel it with a variety of foods, exercise, and resist the pressure to judge yourself and others based on weight, shape or size."

Negative body Image is ...
A distorted perception of your shape ---- you perceive parts of your body unlike they really are
You are convinced that only other people are attractive and that your body size or shape is a sign of personal failure.
You feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body.
You feel uncomfortable and awkward in your body.

Positive body Image is ...
A clear, true perception of your shape ---- you see various parts of your body as they really are.

You celebrate and appreciate your natural body shape and you understand that a person's physical appearance says very little about their character and value as a person.

You feel proud and accepting of your unique body and refuse to spend an unreasonable amount of time worrying about food, weight and calories.
You feel comfortable and confident in your body.

QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

Today, I will show my body respect by drinking water with lemon instead of diet soda all day. I'm not ready to lose my soda habit completely but I know I have room to cut back.

Body image is something I've struggled with all my life. There were lots of times in my life I should have had great body image but didn't. Now, its been so long that I don't really even attempt to have good body image. Even though I've had a lot of positive changes in my body, I have a long ways to go to get feeling comfortable and confident in my body. I'm hoping the training and race will help there.

Hi Connie!

I'll measure whatever, I do have a suggestion for the name -- which you can feel free to discard! It's the "Whittle Inches Now!" or "WIN!" challenge -- you can call the participants Winners, and remind the Winners it's time to send in their measurements.

Back later to answer some QOTDs and check in, my shoulder is killing me so I just took an Aleve. No 10M this morning...

Hope your shoulder feels better soon, Maria!

WIN has my vote for the name of the new part of the challenge! (I knew our writer could come up with something clever! )

I'm off to continue taking advantage of everyone's cleaning vibe! Have a great day all!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Okay, found another, it says 143-163 for my height/frame, another 134-163, another 143-163 with ideal weight being 148.5. and final 135-155. My goal is 148, which seems to be in the middle of most, so I think I'll stick with that.

Taryn--after looking at all the different calculators, seeing how I was fitting in my clothes, knowing that all of my new muscles weigh more, and realizing that I am not 25 anymore, I ended up at 147--so very similar goals. I picked 147 because with +/- 2 I will stay in the 140s. We are very similar frames--my wrist is huge, so I think that 148 is a very reasonable goal. I will say, the belly is still there, but it is shrinking. I have learned patience. Today I tried on a size 4 skirt, and last weekend I tried one on as well. They both fit, but I didn't buy them, just cause I didn't like them!

Lindsey--have fun at your Nana's and hope you get your run in. Be careful with those thunderstorms!

CC--I think changing your body image is a process, and I think talking about it and thinking about it will go a long way towards positive change! Hope you are feeling better.

Maria--what happened to your shoulder? Hope it feels better soon. I LOVE the name you came up with!!! Fits in perfectly!!! How was the visit yesterday?

Lisa--sounds like you are having a very productive weekend. I think the princess training will help. I think there is just something about long runs that does as much for me mentally as physically. I am calmer, more logical, do not overreact as much. I took an anti-depressant several years ago for about 6 months, and I find I get the same benefits from the long runs. What does this have to do with body image, well I am more able to logically think about things and be realistic with realistic goals and expectations. And even if I don't always love how I look, I know I have a very strong body and mind and that makes everything else a little easier.

So, reflecting on body image, these are the two I have most trouble with:
A distorted perception of your shape ---- you perceive parts of your body unlike they really are
You feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body.
I think a lot of this comes still--not to beat a dead horse here--from being told I was "big" for the first 25 or so years of my life. I just never felt proud of my body, and always felt like there was something wrong with it.

Having said that, here are the two I am starting to feel better about:

You feel comfortable and confident in your body.
You celebrate and appreciate your natural body shape and you understand that a person's physical appearance says very little about their character and value as a person.

I am really learing to like my body, because it's mine and it works really hard for me. And from being on the WISH boards and seeing how hard everyone has worked and how many obstacles different people have overcome, I am starting to realize, that character is really where it's at.

Having said all that, I also have realized that being a certain weight does not guarantee you will feel good about yourself. You have to work at that as well. Ok, enough touch feely stuff. I promise tomorrows question will be much lighter!

 

[my3princes]

Connie--Congrats on 7 miles and hope the sunburn doesn't hold you back from 8!

CC--that sounds like a good dinner at Cheesecake Factory! As for TOM--I have been so irregular this summer, that I never know when it's coming. The only way I can tell is I usually get very weepy. Hang in there.

Taryn--yep, the thunderstorm running was stupid, but we really thought it would hold off, based on the weather report when we left the house. Then when it started at mile 3 or so, we were that far from the car and in the middle of the park. Miles 10-12 I really have no excuse for, except for we're both stubborn and wanted to finish. Surprisingly we weren't the only people out there with no common sense. We saw this other couple for the entire run! Glad you got some rest yesterday. Look at Galloway plans, as long as you aren't running for time, but completion, he thinks three days a week of running is enough. I won't run more than 3 days a week, too afraid of injuries.

Pamela--it definitely sounds like your Sil is struggling with some stuff. I have four sisters and while we love each other, things seem to often be a competition. And I hate it that as women at least we tie our self image with our body image, but we do. And I do. I am working on that. I think when I was not healthy due to my poor choices, it was reasonable to be frustrated with myself. But if I am making good choices, I need to be happy and learn to love the body I've been given. Exercise has really been helping me with this, and I am learning to be very grateful for my strong healthy body. I am also learning that I have limitations, which are ok as well. It's been an interesting process. Have fun with the cooking today!

Good morning all!

I found this article at Healthyplace.com--title--Body Distortion a Growing Problem Among Women and Men. Here's an excerpt:

Karen Ritter suggested that people should practice being nice to their bodies and respect themselves and others for reasons other than appearance.

"The keys to having a good body image are to treat your body with respect, give it enough rest, fuel it with a variety of foods, exercise, and resist the pressure to judge yourself and others based on weight, shape or size."

Negative body Image is ...
A distorted perception of your shape ---- you perceive parts of your body unlike they really are
You are convinced that only other people are attractive and that your body size or shape is a sign of personal failure.
You feel ashamed, self-conscious and anxious about your body.
You feel uncomfortable and awkward in your body.

Positive body Image is ...
A clear, true perception of your shape ---- you see various parts of your body as they really are.

You celebrate and appreciate your natural body shape and you understand that a person's physical appearance says very little about their character and value as a person.
You feel proud and accepting of your unique body and refuse to spend an unreasonable amount of time worrying about food, weight and calories.
You feel comfortable and confident in your body.


QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

Despite the fact that I am at the high end of maintaining and stressing a little, I am going to take my scheduled day off today. I know I need the rest. I am also going to plan my meals for the week because I know it will be a busy week and that I need good healthy food to get through the week and to get ready for our race in two weeks. As for part two of the question, I identify with some of both the negative and positve signs. I'm going to think about this part a little more, and comment on it later.

Have a great day everyone.

TOM here too and 2 days early Of course that resulted in a small gain for this week

QOTD: I will force myself to drink some water today instead of only diet soda. As far as body image goes, I have a very poor view of my own. From bad veins in my legs to my crooked nose I see things from top to bottom that I would like to change. While some things are within my ability to change, others simply are not. I just haven't learned to accept what is yet.

 

[flipflopmom]

QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

To treat my body with respect, I'm getting ready to eat lunch. I am seriously starving, only nibbled for breakfast. Starving my body is not respectful. I will spend at least 20 minutes really stretching today, to help my body recover from running yesterday. I read somewhere that running long distances is not "normal". Despite the fact that many of us here do, I forget that it's not a normal thing. I need to treat my body kindly. I will also do a mini peel on my face.

I have such a crazy negative body image 99% of the time. I still feel like I weigh 218. I only see the flab, cellulite, and loose skin. Another 1%, I feel like a rock star that should be on a runway somewhere! Now, if I could just end up with a "happy" medium, and just be satisfied without cockiness or wanting change, then I'd be there.

So much of this is mental....

Off to Mom's for salmon, cabbage, and "white beans" whatever kind that may be! Have a great day, I'll check in later and reply.

Taryn

 

[LuvBaloo]

Another quick drop in post!

I'm missing reading all the threads, but I am accepting that I can't do everything I want right now.

Quick update on me. Feeling great overall. Finished off the old job on Friday, gave the girls to my parents yesterday and looked at some new houses. There's a couple that we like, so we'll go back and look again tomorrow. Got lots on the go this week, so I'll be absent from the thread again. In a couple weeks, I should be able to be involved again

Before I sign off and get busy with more packing, I did actually get all the PM's entered already, so here's the reminder list.

If you're name is on this list, I don't have an Aug 20th weight for you. I will get the results post out on Tuesday

A.Mickey
bouldertcr
brinalyn530
Dahly
donac
jenanderson
JOANNEL
keenercam
lovedvc
my3princes
nunzia
pinkle
redwalker
sahbushka
tea pot
tigger813
Tinker'n'Fun
Worfiedoodles
Zoesmama03

 

[carmiedog]

Hope. There was just a brief glimmer of my goal weight for this challenge on the scale this challenge. I weighed again later and it was up a bit more. If I can make it through this week without cheating, I'll be golden.

Looks like some really good conversation going on today. Hopefully I'll have some time tonight or tomorrow to catch up reading. Right now I have to make sure everything is ready for kids' first day of school tomorrow (supplies, clothes, lunches) - ugh.

 

[cclovesdis]

I made it to the gym! I did a mile on the treadmill in 15:52. I'll be back there again tomorrow. I want to start usiing the elliptical. I plan to try it out tomorrow. Maybe some recumbent bike too.

Taryn-I was when I read your post about the GREs.

Thanks Lisa!

Rose-Thanks for commenting. It's so great to know that it's okay to post things like that here.

my3princes- I have to learn to take TOM in stride. Someday.

Good to hear from you Shannon!

Good luck carmiedog! Hope tomorrow goes well!

Have a great rest of the day everyone! Not sure if I'll be back before the morning!

CC

 

[tigger813]

THanks, Lisa! It's better today. I'm feeling a bit icky today. May have been the 2nd drink I had last night and TOM arriving tomorrow. Also the weather has changed to rain and cooler temps which although I'm glad to have the rain finally it may be part of my problem.

I will get started on Tuesday with my new workout plan and life change! Tomorrow is DH's b'day so we will be eating out and having cake. I actually need to bake the cake after I type this.

I'm also kind of tired today. DD2 is taking a bath right now and DD1 is playing. We went to church and Trader Joe's and Staples this morning and then I came home and made lunch and went to the b'day with DD2. Came home and went back to cleaning and doing laundry which I also need to change over in a minute.

I know working out will make me feel better. Just hoping DH will actually join me! Watching Eureka with DH so I had better go! Once again I'm doing 3 things at once!

 

[pjlla]

So, in my few minutes of spare time, I decided to go back and look at the frame size calculator. Thanks to P's comment. I know I am a large frame, my fingers don't touch on the smallest part of my wrist.

I used this website.
http://www.healthcentral.com/diet-exercise/ideal-body-weight-3146-143.html?2,5,7,155,3

Put in my height, 5'7 and weight 155. I get this message.

Ideal weight range is 158 - 173.8 lbs. (71.8 - 79 kg.).
You are underweight.

Um... WHAT????? I've never seen those words before.

Going to check some more....

Okay, found another, it says 143-163 for my height/frame, another 134-163, another 143-163 with ideal weight being 148.5. and final 135-155. My goal is 148, which seems to be in the middle of most, so I think I'll stick with that.

Well, I'm glad you took the time to look around and check on this. As you can see, according to various charts, you are pretty much right on target. Sure, you might want to be a bit lower, but you aren't OVERWEIGHT! No matter what the mirror seems to be telling you. You are a strong, confident RUNNER, who has a powerful, fit body!! Treat it well... fuel it right and you are GOLDEN!!

Pamela--it definitely sounds like your Sil is struggling with some stuff. I have four sisters and while we love each other, things seem to often be a competition. And I hate it that as women at least we tie our self image with our body image, but we do. And I do. I am working on that. I think when I was not healthy due to my poor choices, it was reasonable to be frustrated with myself. But if I am making good choices, I need to be happy and learn to love the body I've been given. Exercise has really been helping me with this, and I am learning to be very grateful for my strong healthy body. I am also learning that I have limitations, which are ok as well. It's been an interesting process. Have fun with the cooking today!

I do LOVE my SIL, but she struggles with some issues, that is for sure.

Cooking and fun in the same sentence? Not for me... but it's done and I will be GLAD to have easy stuff to pull from the freezer when things get crazy this fall!

QOTD--What can you do today to treat your body with respect? And part 2--if you are up for it--Do you recognize in yourself any of the signs of negative or positive body image?

I try to respect my body by treating it well... eating healthy and not just low fat/low calorie, but organic when possible, all natural when possible. I try to keep my muscles strong and build them up so that they can carry me with ease through the rest of my life.

I DEFINITELY recognize lots of NEGATIVE body image issues within myself. But I suppose being AWARE of these issues is the first step towards dealing with them in a healthy way. That said, I do know that I definitely look BETTER than I did a few years ago and I like to show that off just a little! I definitely dress better and wear more well fitting clothes and things that show my shape, rather than just the oversized, baggy, "try to hide it all" clothes that I wore for many, many years. That shows SOME signs of positive body image!

Last night.
We ended up taking the kids to a carnival that was going on in our area. They rode a few rides and played a few games. They had a great time. I made dinner before we went so that I didnt have to eat any bad choices. Dh and the kids had ice cream for a snack and I choose a roasted piece of corn, light on the butter with some seasoning.

Today we will head to my nana's for some family time. Otherwise no other plans. I need to get a long run in today. I feel like I slacked alot this week on running....just had so much going on in the evenings this week. They are calling for thunderstorms throughout the day so I have to make sure I pick a good time to go.

I will check back in later....have a great day!

Carnival sounds like lots of fun... and for my family it usually means lots of unhealthy foods.... so you did well with your eating there!

Taryn-You have done nothing but crack me up this morning. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

TOM really brings out the best in me and boy was I feeling low this morning. I owe you, just like I owe all my BL friends.

My parents went to church and I read the Sunday paper. Ended up taking some Tylenol. I have no idea what is up with this on again/off again cramping, stomache-like thing I have going on, but I don't like it. Ok, I sound like a 3-year-old.

I WILL exercise today. I'll check back in later.

CC

Gallbladder?? Appendix? Constipation? Kidney infection? Any of these things could cause pain that would be consistent with something in that region... gallbladder would be higher, near ribcage... appendix lower right quadrant... and constipation could cause pain anywhere from lower abdominal region all the way up to your chest. Kidney pain would be more lower mid-back probably. Hope it resolves quickly, no matter what it is!

Hi Connie!

I'll measure whatever, I do have a suggestion for the name -- which you can feel free to discard! It's the "Whittle Inches Now!" or "WIN!" challenge -- you can call the participants Winners, and remind the Winners it's time to send in their measurements.

Back later to answer some QOTDs and check in, my shoulder is killing me so I just took an Aleve. No 10M this morning...

Maria

Love that name! Why is the shoulder bothering you? Did you injure yourself?

Another quick drop in post!

I'm missing reading all the threads, but I am accepting that I can't do everything I want right now.

Quick update on me. Feeling great overall. Finished off the old job on Friday, gave the girls to my parents yesterday and looked at some new houses. There's a couple that we like, so we'll go back and look again tomorrow. Got lots on the go this week, so I'll be absent from the thread again. In a couple weeks, I should be able to be involved again

Before I sign off and get busy with more packing, I did actually get all the PM's entered already, so here's the reminder list.

We miss you,but you need to do what is best for you and your family right now! I'm sure you'll be back, ready to rock and roll, really soon!!

THanks, Lisa! It's better today. I'm feeling a bit icky today. May have been the 2nd drink I had last night and TOM arriving tomorrow. Also the weather has changed to rain and cooler temps which although I'm glad to have the rain finally it may be part of my problem.

I will get started on Tuesday with my new workout plan and life change! Tomorrow is DH's b'day so we will be eating out and having cake. I actually need to bake the cake after I type this.

I'm also kind of tired today. DD2 is taking a bath right now and DD1 is playing. We went to church and Trader Joe's and Staples this morning and then I came home and made lunch and went to the b'day with DD2. Came home and went back to cleaning and doing laundry which I also need to change over in a minute.

I know working out will make me feel better. Just hoping DH will actually join me! Watching Eureka with DH so I had better go! Once again I'm doing 3 things at once!

I love your little notes and stories about things you and DH and your kids do together... it seems like you have such a great family life!


Evening everyone! Today was a nice day, despite the rain. We all attended church together, dropped DD at her friend's house for a last "hurrah" for the summer sleepover, then we took DS out for brunch and a quick trip to the local arcade for laser tag and a few games. I've been feeling like he got really shortchanged this summer with so much time being dedicated to DD's swim, so hopefully he will enjoy 24 hours of "sister-free" love and attention!

I made two large meatloaves, about 18 meatballs, and three batches of ground beef with TVP all ready for the freezer... that is AT LEAST 6 meals with leftovers ready for this fall. I'll use the cooked ground beef with TVP for things like Manwich, shepherd's pie and tacos. The meatloaves will be large enough to have a full family meal with leftovers for lunch and/or dinner the next day. And the meatballs will be enough for two nights of meatball subs for three (I don't usually eat them) or 4 nights of spaghetti and meatballs or swedish meatballs! I hate cooking, but at least I only had to clean up once!!

The meatloaf/meatballs are about as healthy as regular ground beef meatloaf/meatballs could be (can't use ground turkey because of DS's allergies). I added lots of finely chopped carrot and red cabbage this time, as well as a full jar of salsa (the kind that has corn and beans in it), a batch of TVP, wheat bran, oats, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and some potato flakes.

The ground beef was cooked, drained, and rinsed, and then I added a double batch of TVP, so it is about 40% TVP to 60% beef.

Next up I'll try to do a pork day and make a batch of shredded pork for pulled pork sandwiches and some sliced pork for fajitas.

Well... the timer for dinner should be beeping any minute! TTYL..............P

 

[Rose&Mike]

TOM here too and 2 days early Of course that resulted in a small gain for this week

QOTD: I will force myself to drink some water today instead of only diet soda. As far as body image goes, I have a very poor view of my own. From bad veins in my legs to my crooked nose I see things from top to bottom that I would like to change. While some things are within my ability to change, others simply are not. I just haven't learned to accept what is yet.

I know that gain will be gone quickly! I have some veins I'm not crazy about too. And they get huge during strength class. One time I saw them in the mirror and it scared me and I had to stop to figure out what was wrong with my leg--just spider veins!

Taryn--hope you had fun at your Mom's. I know in time you will find that "happy medium."

Shannon--great to hear from you! I hope things go really smoothly with the move, new house and new job!

Carmiedog--here's hoping for a "cheat" free week and a great first day of school for your kiddos!

CC--Congrats on making it to the gym. FWIW, when I first started doing the elliptical in January I could only make it for 20-30 minutes holding on--couldn't use the arm thingy, and could not go backwards. Now it's my favorite piece of equipment, and I tend to go a little crazy on it. I use it as a substitute for running! I think it's a great form of exercise, but definitely took me a little while to get used to it. Hope you have a great workout!

Tracey--have a great time celebrating your DHs birthday tomorrow!

Pamela--you were busy today. Is TVP a veggie protein? Have fun with your DS.

We had a productive day. Mike cut the grass, I planned the meals, we went to the running store for new shoes for Mike, and we went and looked at new phones. I think I might get an HTC hero (sprint). Does anyone have this phone? Just curious if anyone has an opinion. Now Mike is going to run to the grocery store with my list, because I have not been feeling great this weekend. I had a couple sips of soda this afternoon, because I was so tired. We have both been tired all week, and my stomach didn't feel great Friday, then yesterday we both had queasy stomachs, so I'm thinking we're fighting off a bug. Hoping to feel better tomorrow! I'll probably check in one more time tonight to post tomorrow's qotd. Not sure if I will make it on until after work tomorrow, but if not hope everyone has a great, healthy day!

 

[flipflopmom]

Might hop back on later to do my replies from today. I just need to vent for a minute. DH just left, and took Sophie to stay with MIL for the night and for some reason, I feel like crying. Don't know what's up today. I still have stuff on my to do list, gotta get bags packed, lunches, dinners, etc, which is normal for a Sunday night. He is telling me about stuff at work, the plant supervisor is on a psycho rampage and threatening to fire a bunch of people, called Brad in to talk to him, and threw a bunch of stuff at him that happened on first shift as if it was his fault. He's a little job scared, bills are pilling up, I'm stressed, and I just want to cry. He was fussing that there was nothing in the house to take for dinner, he didn't leave angry, just stressed.

Don't feel the need to comment on this little rant, I just needed to get it out. Can't let Anna Kat see me upset, don't want to drag mom in, and for some reason, don't really feel like "talking" to anyone so I don't want to call anyone....

I do not want to eat, my stomach hurts, so that's good. But I am thinking that running is that LAST thing I want to do in the am. Anyone else dread a run until it's done? Hopefully I can accomplish a lot in the next hour and go to bed feeling better! Also, I want to get back on and reply to a bunch of people!

Taryn

 

[jbm02]

Taryn, I know how you feel. Unfortunately, alot of last week was like that for me. Hopefully this week will be better.Short note - just drove down to Charlottesville VA (9 hours) and I'm tired. Stopped at Panera for dinner and found out that VA restaurants aren't requuired to post caloried information. I should have looked up their sandwiches before I left but frankly, never thought about the differences in the states requirements. I'll try to reply tomorrow!!
Hope everyone had a good weekend
Jude