Biggest Loser 10 Fall Challenge -- for losers and maintainers :)

[SettinSail]

Monday's QOTD-

Im all about quick weeknight meals! Share a recipe or meal that you go to when you have 20 min or less to prepare.

These are kinda lame but here are 3 quick weeknight plans I have:

1. Pasta and jarred sauce with a garden salad.

2. Frozen breaded chicken patties (or fish patties) with a starch and a veg.
Starch is usually rice, potatoes or mac 'n cheese and veg is usually steamed broccoli or boiled frozen green beans.
There is a brand of frozen chicken patties here that are truly delicious.
I'm not above serving frozen chicken nuggets if I have those instead

3. Canned soup and paninis. We have a panini maker and we usually do ham & cheese. You could substitute grilled cheese instead.

I usually add a fruit to the table as well - sliced apple, sliced pineapple, grapes, sectioned oranges, whatever I have on hand.

Shawn

 

[jennz]

Okay here goes. Maybe I should do chronological order. Need advice.

Wed./Thurs.
1. Last week's wellness check at school. Positive? The girl that took my bp said "You must really work out. Look at that definition in your arms. I'd kill for that." Negative? The stupid scale. Weight was what I am at home, so that was good. But the body fat analysis said 28%, with 44 lbs of fat. I am not okay with that. That's a kindergartener of fat. It's not there. I know I don't have that much fat. I just don't. But it KILLED me. Spiral downward from this point.

Ummm Taryn...we all NEED fat on our body remember? So of that 44 pound of fat, at the MOST you can lose what half of it, 22 pounds? Okay so now it's a one year old of fat, not a kindergartner. I understand, I had the same realization when I saw all my pure fat but someone on a BL thread reminded me that we need to keep some on our body

2. Conference that night/next day. Ate tooo much. But no real gain. Tempered bad stuff with lots of fruits and veggies and water, so must have been okay.



Fri/Sat.
1. Working a lot on getting my Pampered Chef going. Lots of reading, learning, practicing, emailing, calling. Feeling optimistic. But then, I remember how much I need to make, and the optimism goes away. Kinda up and down right now. I feel great knowing I am taking steps, but then I remember just how bad it is, and get down again. I seriously think I need meds. But don't want them. NOR do I want to pay for them.

Totally understand. Just refocus yourself (squirrel right?) back to what you ARE doing...live in the now, not on Someday Isle Be realistic and follow your plan and that's what you're doing

2. TERRIBLE. One of the gymnastics dads had bone cancer last year. Didn't get good prognosis locally, went to a cancer center in Houston for more aggressive/experimental treatment. Things were looking up, he was applying to get his pilot's license back. Started feeling down, went back to Houston last weekend. Friday I got an email from his wife saying they diagnosed him Thurs. with Acute Leukemia. They were going to start treatment Friday. I sent her an email back saying I was praying, let me know if I could do anythign. She emailed back Saturday saying he lost his battle that morning. STINKS.. His son is 16, daughter a college sophomore, wife is in Houston alone. I am sooo sad and mad over this. I am sick of death!!!!

This is horrible

3. Anna Kathryn announced Sat. night that she wants to quit gymnastics team. I am totally.... confused. Part of me feels guilty, b/c we've always made a point that she knows the sacrifice the family makes for her to do it. I don't think I would change that. I hate kids thinking everyone should bow down to their wishes, and want her to appreciate it. Not for the "I have a wonderful mom" feelings, but so that she's not a brat. Well, she says she is tired of doing routines all the time, she hates competing. If she hates competing, then the team is not the place for her. That's the point of it. She kinda wants to move to just a class, where she can just work on the skills. But so much of her "identity" is tied in to this, I am fearful of the repurcussions. Brad and I kind of want her to tough out this year, to see if it's a passing thing. But, I don't want her miserable, it's too much time and money for that. I'm afraid if we let her quit, she'd regret it. I'm afraid if we don't, she'll hate us and it. Last night, she wasn't sure what she wants to do. "I don't want to throw away all the time and money you've spent on it." We told her to take us out of the equation and decide what she wants. I have cried for 2 days over this. I just don't know what to do. She needs to make the decision this week, b/c lots of stuff happens next week for the new season (team pictures, selling ads for the yearbook, info for the yearbook, etc.). Send some PPD. Any BTDT advice?

DD is in competitive cheer and we have a LOT of girls come over who have burned out on competitive gymnastics...maybe that's something she could try? The time commitment is 2 or 3 nights/week, and from what I've heard it's a lot less expensive. If you don't know much about it, it's very very different from sideline (school) cheering. They compete as a team so from what I've been told the girls like it better...of course this is from parents who's kids are cheering, not the ones who decided it's not for them. I understand what you mean about her identity being a gymnast, I feel that same way with dd's being a cheerleader, but she's the one saying that she might want to walk away, so maybe she's ready. Just a thought.

Eating out of control. I am officially skipping weigh in this week, unless I do it tomorrow, b/c I haven't weighed since Friday, and if it's up, and don't think I can handle more bad news. That thread I am hangin on by seems to get thinner daily. I have been crying the whole time I have been on this morning. AND it's Monday. And it's raining. Where's the towel I can throw in?

Thank you for all of the birthday wishes! I had a lovely weekend. I made a lot of not smart eating choices but I was still proud of myself. I didn't binge on any of those and just had little bits of the bad things while making a lot of healthy choices throughout the weekend. I got on the scale this morning and was not up at all.

A maintain on a bd weekend is a win!

Well, I am finding myself more and more with vertigo, it is bad mostly when I roll over in bed or get out of bed. I first noticed it one night when I was on my coach trip to East Germany. We had eaten at a Greek restaurant and they gave us a shot of that wine- orzi or ouzi or something like that. I drank mine and my friends. It was very strong but I didn't notice a buzz or anything.
That night in bed the vertigo was VERY BAD every time I rolled over. I thought it must have been that wine and didn't notice it again. The past few weeks I have noticed it very mildly, just enough to not even think about it.
But Saturday and Sunday nights this weekend, it is back with a vengance.
Since I had 2 drinks Saturday night, maybe it is exacerbated by alcohol.
I have been so nauseous from all the vertigo. Every time I roll over, a HUGE wave of diziness passes over me for about 10-15 seconds. Researching it online it appears to be BPPV and you can go to the Dr and get your inner ear re-balanced. I found some exercises you can do at home so I going to have my husband help me with those tonight first. It appears that it may just go away on its on. I sure hope so.

Have a great week everyone

Shawn

Shawn the same thing happens to me! When I roll over in bed. I'll have to look for the exercises. When this happened before my doctor told me there a crystals in our ears that sometimes get out of balance and you just have to wait for them to realign. I was worse that time, I was so dizzy and nauseous I thought I was pregnant! Let me know if you try something that works.

Mega-housecleaning is finished. This is the fun part where I get to plan the menus, get together the linens and nice dishes and get ready to enjoy the visit.

Have a great day all!

I'm following your footsteps on mega-housecleaning starting today. I detest it but I do love the house when I'm done...I try to keep that on my mind while I'm doing it. Yay for you being done!! Like you said you get to relax and do the fun stuff now.

Well today I tried to go back to sleep after dh and dd left but couldn't do it. So I've got a few bills to get in the mail, then I'll exercise and start cleaning. Have a great day everyone!

 

[cclovesdis]

My last attempt a replying disappeared, so here's to a successful post!

Tracey: Hope you have a great, OP day!

That's just crazy. Seriously. You can do my laundry anytime, hon!!!! I know you can't take it in stride, it's tough. BUT, I don't even know what to say about that comment. Maybe since she's laundry queen, she considers that her job, and you doing it made her feel useless? Dunno. Glad it was better yesterday.

Sounds like she was trying to make up for it in her own way....

Thanks for the support! You are all so great to me!

on the loss of a student. I can't imagine how difficult that must have been for you.

sounds like great trips CC. I agree about the hungry part. My friend and I took a driving trip for 2 weeks when I was 21. I came back 10lbs heavier. We stopped to eat way to much plus eating out for every meal really caught up with us.

That must have been a great trip!

Taryn: PM coming your way.

Monday's QOTD-

Im all about quick weeknight meals! Share a recipe or meal that you go to when you have 20 min or less to prepare.

Leftovers have been great for my healthy lifestyle and our schedules. Tacos made with ground turkey and lots of veggies have also been a winner.

Thank you for all of the birthday wishes! I had a lovely weekend. I made a lot of not smart eating choices but I was still proud of myself. I didn't binge on any of those and just had little bits of the bad things while making a lot of healthy choices throughout the weekend. I got on the scale this morning and was not up at all.

Awesome!

I hear ya At least I am pretty good about wanting and wishing but never actually buying some of the things on my "bucket list". Now that I've read some of the other replies I can think of better answers - like grandchildren one day of course.

Grandchildren! Those would be great. Now, there's the whole problem of a boyfriend and hopefully husband.

Now, as for your vertigo. Do not let anyone tell you to ignore and do not listen to someone tell you it is in your head. (BTDT on both) Vertigo is real and it is scary. If you go to the dr., he or she will likely ask which way the room is moving-clockwise or counterclockwise. Unfortunately, you'll get less of the "Are you sure you are having vertigo?" if you know the answer with absolutely certainty. (BTDT, too.) Both is fine as well. Alcohol could be the reason. When I was like 14-19, it was mostly related to my menstrual cycle. PM me if you want my life story about vertigo and diagnoses and misdiagnoses, etc. and

Thanks for the good wishes Lisah! Unfortunately, I don't start work until at least 2 weeks from today. There are 2 sets of training and I am attending the first one. I probably should have made that clearer.

jennz: on the vertigo. Hope you have a great, low-key day!

 

[mikamah]

Hello everyone! I am so missing you all here. It's so nice to have such an active group here, but last week was busy at work, and I didn't even get on to read any posts since last monday. So I'm wayyyy behind, but think of you all often. Verizon comes wednesday, so I hope to be back up later this week.

Hope everyone is doing well, and I can't wait to catch up with you all.

 

[SettinSail]

Shawn the same thing happens to me! When I roll over in bed. I'll have to look for the exercises. When this happened before my doctor told me there a crystals in our ears that sometimes get out of balance and you just have to wait for them to realign. I was worse that time, I was so dizzy and nauseous I thought I was pregnant! Let me know if you try something that works.

Yes! This is exactly what I saw when I researched online - crystals in the inner ear get out of balance and you can get adjusted to have them go back in place. Search for BPPV on you tube and you will see a variety of exercises. Some show the Dr treating the patient. I'm going to try tonight.
You are also advised to sleep in a reclining position (like in a recliner) for the next two nights - well, I'm not doing that part. I'm giving it a few weeks to see if it will go away. I have felt mildly dizzy and nauseous all day.
Helps to keep the calorie count down

Now, as for your vertigo. Do not let anyone tell you to ignore and do not listen to someone tell you it is in your head. (BTDT on both) Vertigo is real and it is scary. If you go to the dr., he or she will likely ask which way the room is moving-clockwise or counterclockwise. Unfortunately, you'll get less of the "Are you sure you are having vertigo?" if you know the answer with absolutely certainty. (BTDT, too.) Both is fine as well. Alcohol could be the reason. When I was like 14-19, it was mostly related to my menstrual cycle. PM me if you want my life story about vertigo and diagnoses and misdiagnoses, etc. and

CC, thanks for the advice. I am not sure which way the room is spinning, I will have to notice next time. It just feels like a crushing wave of dizziness.
My husband didn't seem to believe me when I told him about it - he said you can only have vertigo when you are standing up, not laying down

Shawn

 

[Connie96]

I am officially done with a class! ...I made a new plan for exercising. Im adding back strength training. Im hoping this will get me back into the weight loss mentality and it will help me reach my goal faster. I would also like to lose some inches. I felt like a eating machine today. Nothing felt satisfying. I would get full, but not satisfied.

Even with those two cupcakes you still did pretty well. A trick I do is I tend to put a snack in my purse whenever I go somewhere just in case I get tempted to eat. Also it keeps me from starving myself if I get caught up in something for a long time.

for finishing your class! As you're adding that strength training, you should join us in the WIN challenge and we can all lose those inches together!
If you'd like to, send in those starting inches today and join us on the next scheduled WIN weekend (Nov 5).

I totally hear ya on the unsatisfied feeling. I was having such issues with this over the past month or so. I think the satisfaction comes from identifying what you REALLY want and having it - rather than eating thru the list of possibilities. I hope today is better for you.

Yeah, that get-together was so last minute - it was seriously thrown together in 90 minutes. I have my own bag of tricks and I'm usually good at sticking with them, but for some reason I thought it wasn't that big of a deal and I had it under control. Until I found out I was wrong. But, yeah, the overall day turned out fine. I just wish I could figure out when and how I regained control so I could flip that switch again next time I start going nuts.

Good morning.

How sweet. I don't feel like it, so thanks. That was the boost I need this am!

Seriously? You are totally kicking butt with the inch losses! In the first 6 weeks of the WIN challenge you've lost 7.93% of your body mass. I won't divulge the number of inches, but you remember when you applauded someone else for losing almost a whole ruler??? Yeah. You too. Coming from some one who has actually GAINED a little in the inch department, believe me... you are definitely inspiring me. Hang in there! You're doing just fine.

Sounds like you really diverted a disaster. Good job you doing great. Good luck with your weigh in today.

Yep. The worst thing I bought at the store was a box of "Nature's Path" (I don't think that's right, but some all-natural brand) cookies. I haven't opened them yet, but I'm just hoping I can restrain myself to having only ONE at a time.

Weigh-in was good. Down 4.8 pounds. Thank goodness! I mean, it seems a little "artificial" since I just packed that on over the past few weeks and, overall, I'm still up 2.2 for this challenge, but it feels SOOOOOOOO good to be moving in the right direction again. You guys have saved me from myself and I totally owe this week's success to y'all. Hopefully, in the next week or two, I'll be back in overall loss territory for the challenge.

Okay here goes. Maybe I should do chronological order. Need advice.

I am officially skipping weigh in this week, unless I do it tomorrow, b/c I haven't weighed since Friday, and if it's up, and don't think I can handle more bad news. That thread I am hangin on by seems to get thinner daily. I have been crying the whole time I have been on this morning. AND it's Monday. And it's raining. Where's the towel I can throw in?

Wed/Thurs
1. I think you should take that fat % and compare it to whatever "normal" is supposed to be. I'm sure you'll find that there is only a small fraction of your total body fat that is even advisable to try to lose. And, I agree with everyone else that the number you were given is based on a margin of error.

2. Sounds like you did great!

Fri/Sat
1. Financial worries are emotional for me too. You're doing what you can and that's what's important. I wish you SO much success with PC.

2. I am so sorry for the family's loss. (And I'm sorry that death has touched you, yet again. I hope this will be the last for a long, long time.) I will be praying for them.

3. Well, I have not BTDT, but maybe moving from competition to training-only for one season could be beneficial for her and for the family. From all you've told us about AK, I'm sure she'll make a reasonable decision for herself. Good luck.

And, as for throwing in the towel - I just what Shawn had to say about that! Keep hanging on to that thinning thread! Things will look up soon.

Monday's QOTD-Im all about quick weeknight meals! Share a recipe or meal that you go to when you have 20 min or less to prepare.

• scrambled eggs and toast
• frozen cheese ravioli and spaghetti sauce
• stir fry beef strips, a bag of frozen stir fry veggies, a little bottled sauce of some variety

(Quick and easy is a total pre-requisite if I'm gonna cook anything.)

I made a lot of not smart eating choices but I was still proud of myself. I didn't binge on any of those and just had little bits of the bad things while making a lot of healthy choices throughout the weekend.

Sounds like you handled it *perfectly*. (And SOOOOO infinitely better than I handled my bday weekend a couple months back. )

Hope I'm not one of those ladies that everyone else says "WHAT is she thinking!!??"

Well, I am finding myself more and more with vertigo, it is bad mostly when I roll over in bed or get out of bed.

I'm awfully apprehensive about hair color too. I just want it to look like MY hair and not someone else's.

That vertigo sounds miserable. Good luck getting it sorted out.

DON'T THROW THAT TOWEL ANYWHERE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! USE IT TO MOP UP YOUR TEARS AND THEN PLACE IT ON THE FLOOR AND USE IT AS A DOOR MAT TO STEP FORWARD TO YOUR BRIGHT FUTURE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I seriously *LOVE* this Shawn. I may have to hang that one on my wall. Or refrigerator door. Or on the side of the cookie box.

I tried to get up at 6:30 this morning, but that didn't happen. I have to figure out how to fall asleep faster. I might try the other sleeping pill I have. It's safe to change up which one I take, so I'll probably try that tonight. As much as I'd rather not take something to help me sleep, they help me fall asleep and not wake up after a horrible dream. Anything to not have to report that I had a nightmare.

Connie: Thanks for the encouragement!

for sleep! DD sounds so mellow!

I'm sensing that you feel like you ate too much yesterday, but congrats on handling grocery shopping well and having a healthy dinner! And maybe those cupcakes were made with applesauce?

Hope you get to sleeping better soon! DH got really sick about 1:00 this morning so I got up with him for about an hour. My alarm went off this morning and we were both fairly oblivious. I got up almost an hour later than I should have. (I think my hair actually looks like this --> today because I had to cut so many corners just to get out the door and still be 20 minutes late for work.)

DD was great - she wanted to watch TV in DHs office yesterday morning, so they were both in the other end of the house and mommy was doing some serious snoozin'!

Yesterday... all told, I was in a reasonable calorie range for the day but it was the horrible feeling and fear of spiraling out of control I had all afternoon. I didn't get around to eating dinner until 8pm and even though I was practically on a rampage to find something genuinely destructive to eat, for some reason, that can of soup (the entire can - 2 servings - was only about 180 calories) caught my eye and somehow, the sanity returned. Like the beast suddenly disappeared. I don't know why or how, but I am grateful.

Connie, can't wait to be inspired by all your great plans this week! I'm glad that you got to sleep in.

Mega-housecleaning is finished. This is the fun part where I get to plan the menus, get together the linens and nice dishes and get ready to enjoy the visit.

Ha! You must have loved my plan for today: eat sensibly and run sprints. If success is in the details, I may be in trouble!

I sure wish some one would mega-clean my house because if we're gonna wait for me to do it, it'll stay a mess for a WHILE longer. Have fun getting ready for and enjoying that visit!

Well today I tried to go back to sleep after dh and dd left but couldn't do it. So I've got a few bills to get in the mail, then I'll exercise and start cleaning.

Sounds like a full day! Knock it out, girl!

Hello everyone!

Kathy!

 

[liesel]

I'm back from my weekend in Santa Fe and it looks like there are another 20 pages on this thread since I've been gone. I'll try to go back a few pages and see how everyone's been doing. We had lots of fun. We visited Bandalier National Monument for the first time and it was amazing. I had never even heard of the place until last year, but it is definitely worth visiting. I had a wardrobe issue when looking through my closet for hiking clothes, my cargo pants from last year no longer fit and when I tried sinching them, my DH helpfully said they looked "stupid." He was trying to be complimentary, but that didn't help me find something to wear. It looks like I'm going to need some outdoor hiking and running winter gear. As for the food in Santa Fe, let's just say it was definitely an indulgent weekend and I'm planning on being good this week. I hope everyone is doing well. I need to get going on lots of catch up housework today. Talk to everyone later!

 

[keenercam]

Connie – You have been doing such a fantastic job with your plans and your recaps. You should be so proud of yourself. It can take such a long time to get back on track after a lapse, but you jumped right back on the wagon and have been so incredibly disciplined. I hope you are feeling very proud of yourself! Kudos to you on giving away the cranberry apple juice. And do NOT beat yourself up for the cupcakes. The rest of your day was so on-track! Oh, I just saw your HUGE WHOOOSH scale experience. You must feel great!! Keep it up, my friend! You've so GOT this!

Cam a Disney brides sleepover? That sounds so fun! Details please!

LOL! Jenn, My Disney brides get together was so much fun!
While I was planning our vow renewal I had a planning journal on the DIS boards and got to be friends with a bunch of other DISers planning Disney weddings, honeymoons or vow renewals. We weren’t permitted to discuss real life on that section of the DIS – only Disney weddings or honeymoons – so a bunch of us became internet friends off the DIS and have remained friends for a few years. We plan get-togethers whenever possible. This weekend, a bunch of us from as far north as outside Boston and as far south as Baltimore met in NJ for dinner, and several of us got a large suite at a hotel near the restaurant and spent the night. Everyone is so sweet and wonderful and it is SOOO awesome to keep up with their lives after weddings or VRs, to hear about pregnancies, new babies being born, buying houses, etc.
. . . .

Can’t wait to see pix of your DD and friends in their Halloween costumes.

Oh, and Jenn? You ARE Mrs. Incredible!!!


Lindsay – The party sounds like it was so much fun. How clever to come up with those awards for your co-workers. Did everyone love the idea?
BTW, our friend’s grandmother suddenly showed signs of dementia and it turned out she had a UTI. Since then there have been 2 more times where she showed signs of dementia and BOTH times, Jim told the nurses at the assisted living facility and when they tested Stella, both times she had a UTI. Just a thought …

I joined the Biggest Loser Club online this week.

Can’t wait to hear about your journey and your successes! It is great that you’ve found something that works for you.

I'm making my DD(8) a Tiana dress. My DD(6) is going to be Dorothy, luckily I made that one last year for DD(8) and DD(6) one is willing to wear it : )

I don’t think I am alone in clamoring for pictures!!! You are obviously so talented. Your children are so fortunate that you have those talents.

Dona - I cannot imagine how you find the time to do all the wonderful, generous stuff you do. You are amazing!

Are the WW red velvet cake bars any good?

I think they are really good, though sweet. Definitely kill the sweet tooth AND they are only one point.

Taryn – We do miss you when you aren't here, but we understand that you have so much on your plate. Please don’t get overwhelmed by the journey ahead of you toward financial stability. You are taking steps to help your family and every little thing you do is a step in the right direction. You’d be the first one to tell us that those of us who have to lose a lot of pounds shouldn’t look at the huge number, but should set out to conquer each pound and to recognize that no journey is straight and fast. That there may be times where there is some backsliding or slow progress but that as long as we are working toward the goal, we are making progress. Please don’t get discouraged, sweetie.

Oh, and that body fat analysis is just ridiculous. Besides everything else I am completely convinced that starting numbers or early measures are often inflated so that the sponsor can then point to huge “losses” or progress later and take credit for it. PFFFTTTTT!! You know how far you have come and how fit you are. Do NOT let any “measure” take that away from you.

Whenever our kids have wanted to drop out of an activity, we have asked them to stick it out for “x” number of days more and then we will discuss again. Sometimes, they have to get past a “moment” of dissatisfaction, whether they are feeling that way because of an unusually heavy schoolwork burden, a current love interest with whom they’d rather spend time, friends who are not in those activities, or a period of time where they aren’t seeing a lot of progress or success in that activity. Once they’ve gotten past that “let’s give it another month and see how you feel about it” I am much more willing to accept any decision they have made.

OK - 5 weeks until our trip and I'm only 1/4 to my goal.

Congratulations on being 25% of the way toward your goal!!! That is awesome! And I am so glad your DM is doing better. And it is great that you have a plan for staying on track. Can’t wait to see your vacation pictures.

I feel myself slacking a little after reaching the 20 pound mark so I tried to think of something "exciting" for each pound I lose next and came up with:
21 pounds = 10 lbs lost on this challenge and 2/3rds of the way towards the goal I set for myself for the whole challenge
22 pounds = 10% goal
23 pounds = a brand new "onederful" number
24 pounds = BMI reduced from 37 to 33
25 pounds = I have reached another milestone! I am 1/2 way to the one year goal I set for myself!
26 pounds = I have reached the goal I set for the BL challenge
. . . . I have exercised every day, either C25K, walking, elliptical or yoga. Some days I do 2 forms of exercise and once in awhile I do 3!! Today I finished week 5 of C25K - the 20 minute run. I hate to complain about this since I see so many of you are true runners who can go for hours

What a great list!! I have to do that. Each pound seems a struggle and such a small achievement. But you are right-- every pound lost deserves to be celebrated! As for running headphones, mine fell out because they were too big. I bought “baby buds” – I think they are made by Sony and they come with 3 different size buds that fit better and stay in. I also have another kind that hook over my ear and sometimes I use them, though the bud part is too big. I agree that you need a wicking layer close to your skin and then another layer or two that you can take off. I am usually good with a long sleeved tee shirt and then a hooded sweatshirt that I end up taking off and tying around my waiste. It was 38 degrees when I started out on my 8 mile walk this past Saturday. About halfway through, I was more comfortable in just the long sleeved tee shirt.

Deb – What you have been through with DS13 and what you have all survived is such a miracle. What an amazing, strong young man you have there and what amazing parents he has. All of that is cause for celebration!

Lindsay – YAY! for 2 new dresses. You should wear them with pride and realize how far you have come in your journey and think about how fabulous you look!

Dani – Your birthday weekend sounds fun, though I’m sorry the Phillies lost. Congrats on the good choices.

Jeanette - -Congratulations on being done your class. Good luck on finishing up your presentation and your other class.

CC – I think your DM realized how absurd that laundry comment was and tried to “make nice” the day after. I’m just sorry she hurt you that way. Sending you huge hugs, sweetie. So, is training for your new job this week? Are you excited?

That's interesting. Is this something that would have to be repeated once you "use up your bends?" Those pumpkin cookies sound wayyy too yummy! I love pumpkin!

Unfortunately, yes, though the bone graft couldn’t be done again, probably. The next step would probably be a knee replacement. I am hoping not to face that decision for another 15 years or so. Apparently the pumpkin cookies were delicious. I wouldn’t know, though. I made 18 dozen. I didn’t take a single bite. (I’ll tell you about that in a separate post)

Lisa - Your trip sounds lovely. Congrats on the too-big pants!!!

 

[keenercam]

Crazy busy weekend here -- As I was telling Taryn, Friday night I baked my famous pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for about 4 hours (from set up to clean up) and made about 18 dozen of them. I am pleased to report that I have not eaten a single one. Not even a bite.

Saturday morning, a friend and I walked 8 miles (she is training for the WDW full marathon in January and I am still hoping to get to the start line of the half marathon -- anything is possible since it's still 2 1/2 months away, right?) I ate my homemade oatmeal before we went out and then had eggbeaters, ham & fat free cheese on a bagel thin afterwards.

Then, I wrapped presents for 4 people and we headed off to a group birthday party for several people, including my BFF and his daughter (my Goddaughter). I ate a huge plate of raw veggies dipped in salsa and a couple pieces of grilled chicken breast. I caved on the cupcakes, though and had one. (Have I mentioned that I am a cupcake addict?) I had kind of made a deal with myself that if I wanted birthday cake or a cupcake I was not going to eat any of the hot dogs or hamburgers or dip or ice cream cake or the myriad salads and desserts that were there. It was a very satisfying trade-off.

After the party, Howard and Andrew drove me an hour away to the restaurant in NJ where I had dinner with my DISbrides friends. I was worried about what I would eat but then decided it would be my only splurge meal of the weekend. A friend and I shared a white pizza and a chicken cheesesteak. They had mini desserts available so I tried 2 very very small items for dessert.

Several of us stayed together at a hotel in NJ after the dinner. We were up talking in our suite until 4:10 a.m. We had breakast at the hotel yesterday morning and then hung out chatting for a while more. The breakfast buffet had plenty of good choices. I had heart smart cereal with skim milk, 2 hard boiled egg whites, a dannon light&fit yogurt and some fruit. I did not feel deprived at all as my friends sat there eating cheese omelettes, belgian waffles, bagels with cream cheese, bacon, sausage, hash brown patties, and all sorts of sweets, including pastries. I was so grateful the hotel had some healthy options.

One of the girls is from Baltimore and she saved Howard the 2 hour round-trip by driving me home, which was so sweet. I had time to take a phone call and change into jeans and carry sneakers and socks to the car and we were on our way to to Andrew's parade 1/2 hour south of here. (I took a bagel thin with fat free cheese, a light yogurt w/almonds and a bag of light popcorn shared with Howard and Andy to eat in the car so that I wasn't too tempted being that close to "Cupcake Heaven".) I was soo hungry when I was gathering those foods for lunch but I forced myself to make good choices.

It was a GORGEOUS day for a parade and the band sounded fantastic. We walked most of the parade route with them and the crowds were awesome and people LOVED the drumline cadences Andrew wrote -- people were cheering for the drumline "features" and clapping. I loved hearing that. We got home, I cooked dinner for all of us (veggies, light soup, and a portobello burger for me) and was in bed by 7:30. I was only able to stay awake until about 9, though! I am getting too old for all these late nights and early mornings.

I still cannot believe that Howard and I did not buy any food along the parade route down the main street of a college town. There were soooo many temptations -- everything from gelato to soft pretzels to the aforementioned cupcakes to sushi to pizza to ..... well, you get the idea.

Whenever I start to beat myself up over something I've eaten, I really try to evaluate whether I made a good choice given all the circumstance and all the other options.

All in all, I am calling the weekend a huge success, food and activity-wise. Between my 8 miles Saturday and all the walking at the parade yesterday, I think I might have compensated pretty well for the 3 dessert treats I ate.

 

[jennz]

Cam lol! and wow you were busy! Great job keeping your healthy lifestyle!

Okay my friends I need some parenting advice...dd is 12 and in 7th grade. We start middle school here in 7th grade so this is her first year changing teachers for 7 classes. She just changed for math and reading last year. She's a great kid, smart, in the advanced classes and got straight As (no this really isn't a brag-fest!) - the problem is she is not turning papers in. She's forgetting assignments at school and not doing them. She still got As last quarter because her high score grought up her 1/2 scores she got on late papers. There is a vocab paper that is over a week late - I told her if she did not either turn it in if it was done (which she said it was and just in her locker) or bring it home to do tonight then she is grounded Fri, Sat and Sun and missing trick or treating. I NEVER DREAMED she would forget it at school! So now I'm stuck right? She talked to the teacher, found out it was another paper and got it but left it in her locker. She did the same with a Social Studies paper due tomorrow. I don't know what to do about it. I talked to dh and we're going to discuss later tonight.

My first thoughts were she skips cheer tonight and the All-A's breakfast tomorrow, but fortunately I didn't say that b/c I don't think either of those would be right. If she continues with not doing her work she might have to quit cheer, but not miss practice - all or nothing there. And she's earned the breakfast tomorrow.

Next thoughts...she brings her assignment notebook home to me to look at every day. But how will that help w/her leaving things at school? It seems to be mainly in reading, and I suspect the teacher isn't the best communicator but that's not a place to put blame - dd needs to make sure she's getting her work.

Her biggest "currency" is seeing her bff...do we say something like you get a free miss each week and then a day of grounding from your bff for each assignment you don't bring home each day?

Aaargh - advice please! I don't want this habit to become ingrained.

 

[Connie96]

Just a quick fly by to say:

I JUST REGISTERED FOR MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON!!!

I've been training for it and now it's official. Saturday, November 20. Seawall Half Marathon. Just under 4 weeks from now. I'm a little nervous because I just forked over $75 for registration and $105 for the hotel. Both are non-refundable, so if anything comes up (injury or whatever), I'll be out $180 without leaving home. But, other than that, I'm just plain excited. Barring injury, I have no doubt that I can finish. If I add the warm-up/cool-down walking to my latest run, I'm already covering the distance. I won't break any land-speed records, but I can definitely cover the distance. I can hardly wait!

 

[flipflopmom]

(no this really isn't a brag-fest!) - the problem is she is not turning papers in. She's forgetting assignments at school and not doing them. I NEVER DREAMED she would forget it at school! So now I'm stuck right? Her biggest "currency" is seeing her bff...do we say something like you get a free miss each week and then a day of grounding from your bff for each assignment you don't bring home each day?

Aaargh - advice please! I don't want this habit to become ingrained.

First off, it's an organization problem. Get her a binder or folder. Make it mandatory that she takes it with her to each class. Have her put all her homework in the folder as she goes to each class, and bring it home. If she has something that she gets used to making sure she ALWAYS has, the stuff will come home. When she writes her assignments down, if she needs something other than the papers in her folder, have her write down *SS book, *math book so she has whatever is necessary to complete the assignment. I would not give her a free miss, that will just say "once is okay". She has to know that this is not acceptable. If the currency is BFF, then make that the repercussion.

Unfortunately, hon, you are stuck. At least if you want to make an impression. Don't really see a way around it.

Sorry, it's tough when they have more responsibilities!

Well, folks, I'm at home. Not at gymnastics. Could't even talk her into going tonight. "Why would I? I'm quitting." When I asked her how it felt to say "I'm quitting" she said "relieved, a little excited, and maybe a little sad." If she can get into the one night a week class, I think she'll be soooo much happier. She loves gymnastics, and says "I'm not quitting gymnastics, just the team". She has never liked competing, and I think she's just plain tired of all the rushing and running.

Sent the coach an email earlier, she wants me to call her tonight after she gets home. Should be interesting to see what she has to say! She was very surprised!!!!

Now, to switch gears and figure out "what's for dinner?" Had planned grab and go. I am worried that AK will gain weight if she quits, so we are working on a fitness schedule for her. I may have to bite the bullet, and let her run with me, run in the afternoons before we get Sophie. I think she would enjoy it. It might be a good way for us to connect. I like my alone morning runs, though.....

 

[donac]

Just a short post to say hello. Had a nice relaxing weekend. Off to the movies tonight. Going to see the 25th anniv showing of "Back to the Future" Ds told us about it last night so while he was getting tickets for him and gf he got us tickets.

Have a great evening.

 

[cruisindisney]

Okay my friends I need some parenting advice...dd is 12 and in 7th grade. We start middle school here in 7th grade so this is her first year changing teachers for 7 classes. She just changed for math and reading last year. She's a great kid, smart, in the advanced classes and got straight As (no this really isn't a brag-fest!) - the problem is she is not turning papers in. She's forgetting assignments at school and not doing them. She still got As last quarter because her high score grought up her 1/2 scores she got on late papers. There is a vocab paper that is over a week late - I told her if she did not either turn it in if it was done (which she said it was and just in her locker) or bring it home to do tonight then she is grounded Fri, Sat and Sun and missing trick or treating. I NEVER DREAMED she would forget it at school! So now I'm stuck right? She talked to the teacher, found out it was another paper and got it but left it in her locker. She did the same with a Social Studies paper due tomorrow. I don't know what to do about it. I talked to dh and we're going to discuss later tonight.

Unfortunately I know exactly what you are going through because we had the same thing the first bit of 7th grade. We were so upset with DD and her science teacher told me to give her a break. She told me that 7th grade is a big adjustment and that she is just working things out for herself.

Honestly, it made me feel better, but it didn't mean we left her alone. We were the homework police and constantly checking if things were done. She did finally get it worked out and became a straight A student by the end of the year.

I'll find out Thursday if we are having a repeat of the situation in 8th grade. Fingers crossed that all is well. She's not the most organized or focused kid, so we never know what we will hear at teacher conferences.

Question for you runners, anyone have runner's knee? And if so what did you do about it? I'm really bummed. I was actually going to run my first official 5K this weekend, but not sure I should push it. Thoughts?

 

[liesel]

QOTD Bucket List item:

I love how so many responses involved travel. Especially since this forum has quite a bit to do with the subject . I have many travel wishes as well. One goal of mine is to visit all of the major Hawaiian islands. I have visited 3 so far and hope to add a fourth next year.

Connie-CONGRATS on signing up for your first half marathon!

 

[jennz]

Just a quick fly by to say:

I JUST REGISTERED FOR MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON!!!

Woo hoo!!! Great job!!

First off, it's an organization problem. Get her a binder or folder. Make it mandatory that she takes it with her to each class. Have her put all her homework in the folder as she goes to each class, and bring it home. If she has something that she gets used to making sure she ALWAYS has, the stuff will come home. When she writes her assignments down, if she needs something other than the papers in her folder, have her write down *SS book, *math book so she has whatever is necessary to complete the assignment. I would not give her a free miss, that will just say "once is okay". She has to know that this is not acceptable. If the currency is BFF, then make that the repercussion.

Unfortunately, hon, you are stuck. At least if you want to make an impression. Don't really see a way around it.

Sorry, it's tough when they have more responsibilities!

Well, folks, I'm at home. Not at gymnastics. Could't even talk her into going tonight. "Why would I? I'm quitting." When I asked her how it felt to say "I'm quitting" she said "relieved, a little excited, and maybe a little sad." If she can get into the one night a week class, I think she'll be soooo much happier. She loves gymnastics, and says "I'm not quitting gymnastics, just the team". She has never liked competing, and I think she's just plain tired of all the rushing and running.

Sent the coach an email earlier, she wants me to call her tonight after she gets home. Should be interesting to see what she has to say! She was very surprised!!!!

Now, to switch gears and figure out "what's for dinner?" Had planned grab and go. I am worried that AK will gain weight if she quits, so we are working on a fitness schedule for her. I may have to bite the bullet, and let her run with me, run in the afternoons before we get Sophie. I think she would enjoy it. It might be a good way for us to connect. I like my alone morning runs, though.....

GREAT IDEA on the folder!! She's already carrying one so she doesn't have to lug all the binders around (a teacher suggested that) so we're going to have her just expand a little. As far as dd forgetting that assignment tonight - she found her own way to save me , she remembers the assignment and has done it on regular paper and will just staple it to the handout to turn in tomorrow. Phew!!!

About the weight gain you're worried about for your dd...my dd took cheer down a step this year from a national to regional team, which means she went from 4 days/week at the gym to 2, and she has gained some weight and really lost a lot of upper body strength! I took her to an open tumbling last night and she was the one who commented on it. You're probably right about her running with you..hard to give up that alone time but you're being a great role model and a great mom. DH and I are alternating taking dd out with us (I walk, he runs) - we just started that a few weeks ago.

Is it a little tough for you with dd stopping her competitions? All that craziness and all that time involved...it'll be an adjustment! Then you'll be

Just a short post to say hello. Had a nice relaxing weekend. Off to the movies tonight. Going to see the 25th anniv showing of "Back to the Future" Ds told us about it last night so while he was getting tickets for him and gf he got us tickets.

Have a great evening.

I didn't even realize they were showing that again! Enjoy! That would be fun to see.

Unfortunately I know exactly what you are going through because we had the same thing the first bit of 7th grade. We were so upset with DD and her science teacher told me to give her a break. She told me that 7th grade is a big adjustment and that she is just working things out for herself.

Honestly, it made me feel better, but it didn't mean we left her alone. We were the homework police and constantly checking if things were done. She did finally get it worked out and became a straight A student by the end of the year.

I'll find out Thursday if we are having a repeat of the situation in 8th grade. Fingers crossed that all is well. She's not the most organized or focused kid, so we never know what we will hear at teacher conferences.

Question for you runners, anyone have runner's knee? And if so what did you do about it? I'm really bummed. I was actually going to run my first official 5K this weekend, but not sure I should push it. Thoughts?

My fingers are crossed for you and your dd! I don't know about the running, but I highly recommend kt tape (thanks to Jen A for that!). I also see a lot of people with that band under their knee...

 

[cclovesdis]

Evening my Fellow BLs!

Today has been a good, OP day. I don't know why but my breakfast sustained me for so long today that I didn't even want lunch when I finally ate something at about 3:30 PM. Hmmm. I've eaten dinner and am slightly under on my points for the day. Maybe I'll have a banana in a few.

Have a great day tomorrow!

Hello everyone! I am so missing you all here. It's so nice to have such an active group here, but last week was busy at work, and I didn't even get on to read any posts since last monday. So I'm wayyyy behind, but think of you all often. Verizon comes wednesday, so I hope to be back up later this week.

So good to hear from you!

Shawn: Glad you did some research. I will tell you when I was first told I had Meniere’s disease (no longer the diagnosis-actually there isn’t really one), my doctor wrote it on a sheet of paper and told me to research it. He refused to say anything about it, like it was taboo. I’ve had plenty of vertigo episodes lying down. The strangest was probably waking up and feeling vertiginous. I hadn’t even moved yet.

: Weigh-in was good. Down 4.8 pounds. Thank goodness! I mean, it seems a little "artificial" since I just packed that on over the past few weeks and, overall, I'm still up 2.2 for this challenge, but it feels SOOOOOOOO good to be moving in the right direction again. You guys have saved me from myself and I totally owe this week's success to y'all. Hopefully, in the next week or two, I'll be back in overall loss territory for the challenge.

You are doing so well! That loss=

Thanks for the good wishes!

I'm back from my weekend in Santa Fe and it looks like there are another 20 pages on this thread since I've been gone. I'll try to go back a few pages and see how everyone's been doing. We had lots of fun. We visited Bandalier National Monument for the first time and it was amazing. I had never even heard of the place until last year, but it is definitely worth visiting. I had a wardrobe issue when looking through my closet for hiking clothes, my cargo pants from last year no longer fit and when I tried sinching them, my DH helpfully said they looked "stupid." He was trying to be complimentary, but that didn't help me find something to wear. It looks like I'm going to need some outdoor hiking and running winter gear. As for the food in Santa Fe, let's just say it was definitely an indulgent weekend and I'm planning on being good this week. I hope everyone is doing well. I need to get going on lots of catch up housework today. Talk to everyone later!

Sounds like a great place to visit!

Cam: Thanks for the reply! I am so looking forward to training. I cannot wait to start working with kids again!

Your Disbrides get-together must have been so much fun!

for not eating any pumpkin cookies! That’s determination and dedication!

for 8 miles! You stayed so OP throughout the weekend! Even your splurge sounds a lot better than any of my splurges ever are. The cupcake “trade-off” (love that) was just amazing willpower!

Kudos to DS! You must be (and if you aren’t, you should be) one proud mom!

jennz: Taryn gave you some great advice! I just saw your 2nd post, and it seems like things are better. Hoping they stay that way!

Just a quick fly by to say:

I JUST REGISTERED FOR MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON!!!

I've been training for it and now it's official. Saturday, November 20.

So excited for you!

Well, folks, I'm at home. Not at gymnastics. Could't even talk her into going tonight. "Why would I? I'm quitting." When I asked her how it felt to say "I'm quitting" she said "relieved, a little excited, and maybe a little sad." If she can get into the one night a week class, I think she'll be soooo much happier. She loves gymnastics, and says "I'm not quitting gymnastics, just the team". She has never liked competing, and I think she's just plain tired of all the rushing and running.

Sent the coach an email earlier, she wants me to call her tonight after she gets home. Should be interesting to see what she has to say! She was very surprised!!!!

Now, to switch gears and figure out "what's for dinner?" Had planned grab and go. I am worried that AK will gain weight if she quits, so we are working on a fitness schedule for her. I may have to bite the bullet, and let her run with me, run in the afternoons before we get Sophie. I think she would enjoy it. It might be a good way for us to connect. I like my alone morning runs, though.....

to AK and you. It truly sounds like AK is ready to change from being on a team to a skills class.

As for keeping her in shape, running together might work. But, I think something like Monday and Thursday afternoons with her, Tuesday and Friday mornings by yourself, and a long run together on Saturday or Sunday would be good. I wouldn’t want you to lose “alone” time. I’m not an expert, but thinking back to C25K, I would think 3x a week would be enough for her. I'll leave you to decide how frequently you want/need to run.

Just a short post to say hello. Had a nice relaxing weekend. Off to the movies tonight. Going to see the 25th anniv showing of "Back to the Future" Ds told us about it last night so while he was getting tickets for him and gf he got us tickets.

Have a great evening.

Have a great evening too!

Bree, pjlla, Rose, Ann, JenA, MB, and anyone else who hasn't posted in a few days: I hope you are doing well!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Wed./Thurs.
1. Last week's wellness check at school. Positive? The girl that took my bp said "You must really work out. Look at that definition in your arms. I'd kill for that." Negative? The stupid scale. Weight was what I am at home, so that was good. But the body fat analysis said 28%, with 44 lbs of fat. I am not okay with that. That's a kindergartener of fat. It's not there. I know I don't have that much fat. I just don't. But it KILLED me. Spiral downward from this point.

I know its easy to say but dont worry about these numbers they are inaccurate and you look awesome. I really think the only thing that matters is how you look and feel. Everything else is a number.

2. Conference that night/next day. Ate tooo much. But no real gain. Tempered bad stuff with lots of fruits and veggies and water, so must have been okay.

I would say this was a win for you

Fri/Sat.
1. Working a lot on getting my Pampered Chef going. Lots of reading, learning, practicing, emailing, calling. Feeling optimistic. But then, I remember how much I need to make, and the optimism goes away. Kinda up and down right now. I feel great knowing I am taking steps, but then I remember just how bad it is, and get down again. I seriously think I need meds. But don't want them. NOR do I want to pay for them.

Take it one step at a time. Think about the fact that you will make more money that you wouldnt have had without this idea. You are stepping in the right direction.

2. TERRIBLE. One of the gymnastics dads had bone cancer last year. Didn't get good prognosis locally, went to a cancer center in Houston for more aggressive/experimental treatment. Things were looking up, he was applying to get his pilot's license back. Started feeling down, went back to Houston last weekend. Friday I got an email from his wife saying they diagnosed him Thurs. with Acute Leukemia. They were going to start treatment Friday. I sent her an email back saying I was praying, let me know if I could do anythign. She emailed back Saturday saying he lost his battle that morning. STINKS.. His son is 16, daughter a college sophomore, wife is in Houston alone. I am sooo sad and mad over this. I am sick of death!!!!


How horrible and sad.

3. Anna Kathryn announced Sat. night that she wants to quit gymnastics team. I am totally.... confused. Part of me feels guilty, b/c we've always made a point that she knows the sacrifice the family makes for her to do it. I don't think I would change that. I hate kids thinking everyone should bow down to their wishes, and want her to appreciate it. Not for the "I have a wonderful mom" feelings, but so that she's not a brat. Well, she says she is tired of doing routines all the time, she hates competing. If she hates competing, then the team is not the place for her. That's the point of it. She kinda wants to move to just a class, where she can just work on the skills. But so much of her "identity" is tied in to this, I am fearful of the repurcussions. Brad and I kind of want her to tough out this year, to see if it's a passing thing. But, I don't want her miserable, it's too much time and money for that. I'm afraid if we let her quit, she'd regret it. I'm afraid if we don't, she'll hate us and it. Last night, she wasn't sure what she wants to do. "I don't want to throw away all the time and money you've spent on it." We told her to take us out of the equation and decide what she wants. I have cried for 2 days over this. I just don't know what to do. She needs to make the decision this week, b/c lots of stuff happens next week for the new season (team pictures, selling ads for the yearbook, info for the yearbook, etc.). Send some PPD. Any BTDT advice?

I havent gotten to this point yet with my kids but I can give you advice from my own experiences. I was a triple varsity letter winner athlete in high school and I was constantly going all year long. There was many times I wanted to quit certain things. Maybe if I didnt like a coach and I was having a hard time meeting expectations or if my other friends were all getting to do fun stuff after school but I always had practice, etc. One lesson that my mom and dad taught me was not to quit....meaning finish out what you start. Is there a break during the year that the girls usually start the next season???? if so I would make her leg it out and then either decide to continue or to not "join again". There were some things I decided to quit and others I stuck with. I honestly can say I dont look back and regret any of it. I think the lesson I learned from it was to never give up and not make spontaneous decisions.

Eating out of control. I am officially skipping weigh in this week, unless I do it tomorrow, b/c I haven't weighed since Friday, and if it's up, and don't think I can handle more bad news. That thread I am hangin on by seems to get thinner daily. I have been crying the whole time I have been on this morning. AND it's Monday. And it's raining. Where's the towel I can throw in?

Keep your head up Taryn. We are hear for you.

Thank you for all of the birthday wishes! I had a lovely weekend. I made a lot of not smart eating choices but I was still proud of myself. I didn't binge on any of those and just had little bits of the bad things while making a lot of healthy choices throughout the weekend. I got on the scale this morning and was not up at all.

Mommyof2pirates - i was at the Phillies game. It was a great game but a crushing loss!

Great job maintaing over the weekend. Wow I would have loved to be at the game, well.......except for the last inning.

:Well, I am finding myself more and more with vertigo, it is bad mostly when I roll over in bed or get out of bed.

I hope it gets better soon shawn. I would defintely see a doctor.

Grilled chicken breasts, canned green beans, mashed potatoes in an envelope. I especially need dinners like this on Mondays!

wow tonight we had grilled chicken, rice in an instant microwave bag, and corn in a steamer microwave bag. and that was before I read your post.

Hello everyone! I am so missing you all here. It's so nice to have such an active group here, but last week was busy at work, and I didn't even get on to read any posts since last monday. So I'm wayyyy behind, but think of you all often. Verizon comes wednesday, so I hope to be back up later this week.

Hope everyone is doing well, and I can't wait to catch up with you all.

So glad you will be back on soon. We all miss you.

I'm back from my weekend in Santa Fe

Glad you had a wonderful time. Welcome back

Crazy busy weekend here -- As I was telling Taryn, Friday night I baked my famous pumpkin chocolate chip cookies for about 4 hours (from set up to clean up) and made about 18 dozen of them. I am pleased to report that I have not eaten a single one. Not even a bite.

Wow you got some awesome will power cam!

Saturday morning, a friend and I walked 8 miles (she is training for the WDW full marathon in January and I am still hoping to get to the start line of the half marathon -- anything is possible since it's still 2 1/2 months away, right?) I ate my homemade oatmeal before we went out and then had eggbeaters, ham & fat free cheese on a bagel thin afterwards.

You have some good determination so I think you have a great chance of getting there.

Then, I wrapped presents for 4 people and we headed off to a group birthday party for several people, including my BFF and his daughter (my Goddaughter). I ate a huge plate of raw veggies dipped in salsa and a couple pieces of grilled chicken breast. I caved on the cupcakes, though and had one. (Have I mentioned that I am a cupcake addict?) I had kind of made a deal with myself that if I wanted birthday cake or a cupcake I was not going to eat any of the hot dogs or hamburgers or dip or ice cream cake or the myriad salads and desserts that were there. It was a very satisfying trade-off.

You are amazing. Great Job. I have been having a cupcake weakness myself lately.

After the party, Howard and Andrew drove me an hour away to the restaurant in NJ where I had dinner with my DISbrides friends. I was worried about what I would eat but then decided it would be my only splurge meal of the weekend. A friend and I shared a white pizza and a chicken cheesesteak. They had mini desserts available so I tried 2 very very small items for dessert.

Several of us stayed together at a hotel in NJ after the dinner. We were up talking in our suite until 4:10 a.m. We had breakast at the hotel yesterday morning and then hung out chatting for a while more. The breakfast buffet had plenty of good choices. I had heart smart cereal with skim milk, 2 hard boiled egg whites, a dannon light&fit yogurt and some fruit. I did not feel deprived at all as my friends sat there eating cheese omelettes, belgian waffles, bagels with cream cheese, bacon, sausage, hash brown patties, and all sorts of sweets, including pastries. I was so grateful the hotel had some healthy options.
That sounds like a great weekend.

One of the girls is from Baltimore and she saved Howard the 2 hour round-trip by driving me home, which was so sweet. I had time to take a phone call and change into jeans and carry sneakers and socks to the car and we were on our way to to Andrew's parade 1/2 hour south of here. (I took a bagel thin with fat free cheese, a light yogurt w/almonds and a bag of light popcorn shared with Howard and Andy to eat in the car so that I wasn't too tempted being that close to "Cupcake Heaven".) I was soo hungry when I was gathering those foods for lunch but I forced myself to make good choices.

It was a GORGEOUS day for a parade and the band sounded fantastic. We walked most of the parade route with them and the crowds were awesome and people LOVED the drumline cadences Andrew wrote -- people were cheering for the drumline "features" and clapping. I loved hearing that. We got home, I cooked dinner for all of us (veggies, light soup, and a portobello burger for me) and was in bed by 7:30. I was only able to stay awake until about 9, though! I am getting too old for all these late nights and early mornings.

I bet you were so proud.

I still cannot believe that Howard and I did not buy any food along the parade route down the main street of a college town. There were soooo many temptations -- everything from gelato to soft pretzels to the aforementioned cupcakes to sushi to pizza to ..... well, you get the idea.

Thats quite a parade. Our parades just sell crappy blow up toys that are way over priced and stale soft pretzels that have been out for god knows how long.

Whenever I start to beat myself up over something I've eaten, I really try to evaluate whether I made a good choice given all the circumstance and all the other options.

This is definitely something to remember because you are doing such a great job making excellent choices.

All in all, I am calling the weekend a huge success, food and activity-wise. Between my 8 miles Saturday and all the walking at the parade yesterday, I think I might have compensated pretty well for the 3 dessert treats I ate.

Okay my friends I need some parenting advice...dd is 12 and in 7th grade. We start middle school here in 7th grade so this is her first year changing teachers for 7 classes. She just changed for math and reading last year. She's a great kid, smart, in the advanced classes and got straight As (no this really isn't a brag-fest!) - the problem is she is not turning papers in. She's forgetting assignments at school and not doing them. She still got As last quarter because her high score grought up her 1/2 scores she got on late papers. There is a vocab paper that is over a week late - I told her if she did not either turn it in if it was done (which she said it was and just in her locker) or bring it home to do tonight then she is grounded Fri, Sat and Sun and missing trick or treating. I NEVER DREAMED she would forget it at school! So now I'm stuck right? She talked to the teacher, found out it was another paper and got it but left it in her locker. She did the same with a Social Studies paper due tomorrow. I don't know what to do about it. I talked to dh and we're going to discuss later tonight.

I am sorry that I got a chuckle out of your issue tonight. I just went in Ryan (my kindergartener's) homework folder which we use at home for his monthy assignments the teacher sends home. I was like wait why is your worksheet from last thursday still in here??? Then I realized I never sent it into school. Wow talk about a bad mom feeling. Then I read your post and Im wondering how I should punish myself.

All kidding aside I agree with the others. I would not give her get out of jail free cards I think you gave her plenty of chances to fix it. Give her a plan to help her remember and then hold her accountable. Dont take away things she already earned but set the concequence and if she forgets again you have to stick to it. No excuses.

I JUST REGISTERED FOR MY FIRST HALF-MARATHON!!!

That is awesome connie. I know what you mean about the fear of injury and wasting money. I feel the same about our disney trip. I worry about getting injured all the time. I think we will be ok. Just be smart about your training. I am so excited for you.

Now, to switch gears and figure out "what's for dinner?" Had planned grab and go. I am worried that AK will gain weight if she quits, so we are working on a fitness schedule for her. I may have to bite the bullet, and let her run with me, run in the afternoons before we get Sophie. I think she would enjoy it. It might be a good way for us to connect. I like my alone morning runs, though.....

I think this would be good for both of you. It doesnt mean you cant get an alone run in here and there. I always thought I loved being alone but after running with my friend last weekend I really enjoyed it.

Just a short post to say hello. Had a nice relaxing weekend. Off to the movies tonight. Going to see the 25th anniv showing of "Back to the Future" Ds told us about it last night so while he was getting tickets for him and gf he got us tickets.

Have a great evening.

That sounds like fun dona. I hope you enjoy it. That is one of my favorite movies.

Question for you runners, anyone have runner's knee? And if so what did you do about it? I'm really bummed. I was actually going to run my first official 5K this weekend, but not sure I should push it. Thoughts?

I had a knee issue the last time I started running. I did too much too fast. I would not push yourself with knee pain it will only make it worse. I would actually stop running until it feels better then start back slowly again. Also make sure you have a good pair of sneakers. As far as the 5K I would see how your knee feels but if its still not better I would either walk it or skip it. I know it is a bummer but you dont want to risk doing worse damage.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Overall today was a good day. Very busy at work!!!

I ate within my points and I am planning to get on the TM tonight. I honestly hate this machine but by the time I had dinner done it was 615p and pitch black out...then it started to pour. I am glad the cooler weather is here but I enjoyed the summer time and being able to run at night. I guess a girl cant have it all.

I have to also make macaroni salad for another baby shower we are having at lunch tomorrow for one of my staff. There are alot of things on the menu that I dont really like so I dont see tomorrow as being that hard to eat well. I think I am going to just say no to cake. I feel like I ate more than my share of goodies this weekend. Actually its sad to admit but I gained 2lbs. Hopefully its temporary and by tomorrow it will be gone.

My dh's nana is still in the hospital but doing better. They did check her for a UTI and said she did not have one but it could be that she had been on antibiotics for 2 days prior to testing so it was still a possibility. She seemed ok yesterday and today so hopefully that was it. Thank you all for your wonderful thoughts and prayers.

I will leave you for the night with a funny story about my 5 year old.

Sat night we drove past a church sign that said. Honk if you love jesus....text while driving if you want to meet him. I read it aloud and dh and I laughed about it.

Sunday at "sunday" school I was outside of ryan's room and I heard him telling his teacher. Hey you know what...if you want to meet jesus all you have to do is send him a text message.

I was hysterical. The teacher was like oh ok. She had no clue what he was talking about.

 

[tigger813]

Been a good day despite the coughing. Walked 3 1/2 miles with Redwalker this morning. Didn't get any other walks in or exercise. Had french toast and bacon for supper. Just had my last honey crisp apple! I really need to find some more tomorrow!

Another busy day of work, book fair with DD1, make cupcakes for DD2s birthday, soccer for DD2 and dancing for DD1. I don't know if I'll ever get my house cleaned up.

Making some more Disney plans for our trip. We're doing TIW instead of the Dining plan which will be good for my weight! LOL! DH and I are also going to treat ourselves to the Segway Tour of WS! I'm so excited to do that. We are canceling a few of our reservations.

Back to watching Chuck and seeing what I need to do in this house.

TTFN