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

[Rose&Mike]

Okay, so after an entire day of sitting on my hind end due to my injured back, I am so ready to get back to a workout!!! I can't yet, though, still sore. Anyway, quick question. Those of you who run...I have a love/hate relationship with it. I haven't been running in months, but I have been motivated recently to work up to a half-marathon. Is that ridiculous? How should I start training (once my back is back in properly working order!)? Thank you!

Check out couch 2 5k--c25k. You can google and read about it or there's a thread on the wish board. I didn't use c25k, but a lot of folks have and it works great. Also Jeff Galloway is now the official trainer for disney endurance. If you go to rundisney.com you can find a link to some of his stuff. You can also get galloway books. I like galloway plans because he stresses the long run and doesn't have you doing a ton of runs during the week. I only run on average 3 days a week, but I crosstrain--bike, elliptical and do strength. And while galloway pushes run/with walk breaks, you can follow his plans even if you decide you are going to run the whole way.

Good luck. We don't always enjoy our runs while we're running, but we love how we feel when we're finished!

 

[Connie96]

Connie-Glad to hear you are doing better!

Thanks, CC.

FWIW, I was never able to "do it all". I gave up when Tom went to high school and just stayed home. That might sound strange, but he needed me around, and Mike was working so much. Being a mom and a wife and handling all the day to day stuff is a challenge. But here's what I realize now that ds is in college.
--He didn't care whether the house was immaculate, he just wanted to be able to have his friends over.
--He didn't care whether every meal was home cooked or some culinary masterpiece, he just wanted to be with us.
--And he didn't really like it when I worried about all the trivial stuff. He just wanted parents who cared about him and were there when he needed them.

Like I said, I just want to be organized enough to do the things that NEED doing. There are some things that should be perfect (like thoroughly testing a project at work ) and some things that don't (I'm NEVER gonna clean baseboards with a q-tip). I just want organize enough and plan enough and DO enough to feel like it's MY LIFE and not some random conglomeration of days on Earth. Ya know??

Good luck. We don't always enjoy our runs while we're running, but we love how we feel when we're finished!

Amen, sister!

 

[goldcupmom]

Julie--hope you have a better day today.

Thanks, Rose! Today has been better in some ways, worse in others, but food has, so far, been under control.

Hugs to you! Sounds like you have a lot going on in life and it is so easy to get off track when that happens. I am working on this right now. Always feel free to come here and vent – you will find so many people who will listen and offer words of support and encouragement.

My life is SO WEIRD!! I've really never known anyone whose life can be this NUTS!!! It's VERY reassuring that I can come here and get support I am otherwise totally devoid of! Blessings and many thanks to all!!

I am going to mention the compression socks again. I had read a bunch about them and was a bit hesitant to invest in a $30 pair of socks but they are great! With all the running you are doing, you might like them as well. I wear them sometimes when I do a long run or sometimes after a run when my legs feel tight. When I run 10 or more miles, I put them on after the run for a couple of hours or the rest of the day and my legs feel great! I hope your heat and humidity let up a bit soon!

Tell me more.... please!.I am having veins done in both legs - right leg is BAD!! - end of December, but can't stand the thought of wearing the 'tights' he wants me to much before then. Just to hot! Left leg is getting laser & injection, right leg is getting those along with the ripping out of a couple huge veins. One of which is a branch in my thigh I didn't know about that has just expanded off of another in another direction.

One of the most difficult aspects of this journey for me has been learning what "full" feels like. I'd always eat too much and too quickly (leftover habit from growing up with 3 brothers who were always hungry and to whom I'd have to give food off my plate if I was still eating and they were done and hungry --UGH!).
TOO funny, but not funny! I can totally relate. There was a rule in my family if/when we ever went out for ice cream that whoever finished first could choose someone else's to finish. So, you had to stuff it down or lose it. Mealtimes were never a social time, just eat as much as fast as you can - I was the youngest of 6 by 6 yrs & the oldest one was 18 yrs older. Makes for VERY poor eating habits!

I am frustrated and sad that my knee isn't working right. It is seriously "angry" as Anthony (my physical therapist) says, swollen and not functioning right and we can't figure out why. Last week, I did 2 phsysical therapy sessions (40 minutes of working the knee, including 10 minutes on the elliptical and then strength and balance stuff) and 3 trips to the Y -- (trip 1- 15 minutes bike, trip 2- 30 minutes elliptical and trip 3- 30 minutes bike) -- and it didn't hold up well.

Sorry you're having so much trouble, but you've really come a long way towards ultimately being better. I know how frustrating it is. I was on crutches 2 yrs before they rebuilt my ankle - when I was 16 - and then it was a 50% chance I'd ever walk again. I"m here & praying you see improvement really soon!

Today has been more in control, but still frustrating.

3 a.m. I woke up thinking power was out. Nope, DH had turned off all air & fans as he was freezing (at 72). He does this frequently. Cold all the time which isn't good for this almost menopausal maniac! So, I went to bed at 11, up at 3 & still up when the alarm went off at 5:20. Then DD was running late again & I had to drive her to the bus stop, get gas. Got home & was about to go walk when DS24 comes in & tells me to call the dentist - eating chicken from WM deli they put in the break room(he's a night stock mgr at WM) he broke a tooth off really nasty.

Finally got out with Sashi for 3.75, got DS21 off to school,did some SR, made lunch to go for DD & I, picked her up at bus & went to dentist with DS24 (he's paranoid about drs) They did nothing today, but tomorrow at 9 will build up that tooth & fill EIGHT others (do you think his years of BAD choices are catching up with him? Yet he is adamant that drugs don't hurt your teeth!!) Back home to finish SR, sort mail, do mark-ups & proof the complaint atty. is getting ready to file in Dist. Ct. about DS21s car, took a power nap & about to get dinner. Then, if it's not raining, will walk all 3 dogs & start on the things I really wanted to get done today. (And my DSil continually in my presence says "I wish I could just sit home & do nothing but play games on my computer all day every day!) I want to DECK HER!!!!)

Food ok - Apex bar for breakfast, turkey on light bread for lunch in car, then another apex bar. Dinner will be a baked potato with some chicken & salsa on it.

Have a good evening all!

Oh, QOTD - I got 14/16 - not surprised. I'm my own worst enemy and saboteur! The ones I missed, I put too small a portion. Go figure!

 

[PRINCESS VIJA]

I would like to join as a loser! I don't know how well I can do, but at least I don't want to gain!

Some of you may have read my post about being lucky to be alive, but I truly am. I almost died last week from blood clots in my lungs and arm.

It has given me another lease on life and I am soooo lucky right now. It also makes me realize how much I need to get going on my overall health and finally loose the weight.

I am limited with the exercise I can do right now. I can't use my right arm, and I am only walking a couple of blocks now. Considering I was getting ready to test for black belt, this decrease in exercise has been hard, but I can only do what my body/ lungs feel like doing.

Wishing all of the losers lots of luck and lots of health!

 

[Cupcaker]

Cupcake - those parties sound like so much fun!! Howard and I used to host a Halloween party for our civic association where we'd give all the kids pumpkin shaped cookies and stuff to decorate them. I think the adults had more fun than the kids! I like the idea of the gingerbread party, too, and I usually buy a kit for our kids (22 and 17 now) to do with our friends' kids (16 and 14 now) and they always have a blast. Maybe a homemade "kit" would be even more fun.

How fun! It would be nice to incorporate that to the parties as well. But youre right, the adults always have more fun than kids. I can pm you instructions if youre interested in the gingerbread houses. Its sooo easy.

I am going to listen to everyone and keep writing it all down today. I have a real love/hate relationship going with the 150s right now. I get happy when I get closer to 150 and I hate as I creep up to the high 150s. My plan is to be as diligent as I can be this week and to mix things up a bit as well - both with my food and exercise.

I have only personally tried fitday.com and the "calorie counter" app on my android phone. They both are good, but I prefer the app for convenience. I hated the 150's too, but the 140s are giving me a harder time

Then last night when I wanted to walk, DH went off about no one being allowed downstairs (where the TV, Wii, & kids rooms are) until after 9 pm daily as DS24 works nights & sleeps til then. Which basically means DS21 & DD18 can't watch a movie, play games etc as starting after 9 p.m. is too late when they all get up at 5:20 for school. No other place for anyone to watch TV or play games. I haven't played my piano in over 2 yrs as DS24 is always asleep & I just don't want to after 10 at night & same with my WiiFit - if he isn't at work, he is on the TV playing his PS3 or is asleep. GRRRRRR!!!!!!!

I would be annoyed by that too. Sounds like my 23 yo brother, always asleep!! I just do anything anyways. Maybe you can get him earplugs or noise canceling headphones? That way, he gets his sleep and your family can carry on.

Here's one of me on the course:

Great picture!

This might sound silly--but here's what I do with the bread basket. I take what I am going to eat, put it on a plate and move the basket as far away from me as it will go on the table. Kind of out of sight out of mind. I have also been known to make Mike take what he wants, and then have them remove it from the table. It doesn't work everytime, but it does help!

Thanks for sharing! that is such great advice. Im going to have to try that next time. I will definitely have to do that with fries too. Theyre the end of me.


Sooooooooo busy. work, school, life! Im like a chicken without a head right now... I even lost my phone last night ARGH!! but I found it today. And its rainy today so I cant go running. Such weird weather for southern california. Ok I'll be back for QOTD.

jeanette

 

[jennz]

I would like to join as a loser! I don't know how well I can do, but at least I don't want to gain!

Some of you may have read my post about being lucky to be alive, but I truly am. I almost died last week from blood clots in my lungs and arm.

It has given me another lease on life and I am soooo lucky right now. It also makes me realize how much I need to get going on my overall health and finally loose the weight.

I am limited with the exercise I can do right now. I can't use my right arm, and I am only walking a couple of blocks now. Considering I was getting ready to test for black belt, this decrease in exercise has been hard, but I can only do what my body/ lungs feel like doing.

Wishing all of the losers lots of luck and lots of health!

Vija!!!! Oh no, I hadn't read your post and praise God that are you okay!! I'll have to look for it. And you're totally right that you can only do what you can do. I know it has to be disheartening but remember your limits. I'll be happy to see your posts again.

3 a.m. I woke up thinking power was out. Nope, DH had turned off all air & fans as he was freezing (at 72). He does this frequently. Cold all the time which isn't good for this almost menopausal maniac! So, I went to bed at 11, up at 3 & still up when the alarm went off at 5:20. Then DD was running late again & I had to drive her to the bus stop, get gas. Got home & was about to go walk when DS24 comes in & tells me to call the dentist - eating chicken from WM deli they put in the break room(he's a night stock mgr at WM) he broke a tooth off really nasty.

Finally got out with Sashi for 3.75, got DS21 off to school,did some SR, made lunch to go for DD & I, picked her up at bus & went to dentist with DS24 (he's paranoid about drs) They did nothing today, but tomorrow at 9 will build up that tooth & fill EIGHT others (do you think his years of BAD choices are catching up with him? Yet he is adamant that drugs don't hurt your teeth!!) Back home to finish SR, sort mail, do mark-ups & proof the complaint atty. is getting ready to file in Dist. Ct. about DS21s car, took a power nap & about to get dinner. Then, if it's not raining, will walk all 3 dogs & start on the things I really wanted to get done today. (And my DSil continually in my presence says "I wish I could just sit home & do nothing but play games on my computer all day every day!) I want to DECK HER!!!!)

Food ok - Apex bar for breakfast, turkey on light bread for lunch in car, then another apex bar. Dinner will be a baked potato with some chicken & salsa on it.

Have a good evening all!

Oh, QOTD - I got 14/16 - not surprised. I'm my own worst enemy and saboteur! The ones I missed, I put too small a portion. Go figure!

You are too funny!!! Maybe b/c I can relate. How do you like those Apex bars? I haven't tried them yet.

Jennifer--hope you all are feeling better. I've been thinking tomato soup and grilled cheese sounds good.

I'm going to throw this our there. I am really having trouble switching from loser to maintain. I'm still dropping weight--I'm sure I'm not eating enough, but I have no desire to count calories or figure it out. I've already had Shannon lower my maintain weight by a pound, and I'm guessing I'm going to be at the low end of that on Friday. Clothes I bought a month ago are starting to be lo0se already.

When I was losing I felt in control of things. Maintaining, not so much. And really I am not hungry, so I have no desire to increase my calories. In the back of my head I keep thinking, you don't really want to maintain, you want to reach that college weight. But have you seen those people who have lost a bunch of weight in their 40s and 50s and their skin starts to hang in places? I am quickly approaching that. My skin on my neck and around my knees is starting to look pretty wrinkly. There's this older lady who walks at the park we go to who doesn't have an ounce of visible fat on her, but her skin just hangs. I don't want that. I know I'm a ways from being that bad, but I don't want to look older than I am.

So I don't know what to do. I feel like there is a tug of war going on in my brain right now. I know it's a good problem to have, so I'm not upset or anything, I just don't know how to be done losing. I guess it's a process and I just need to be a little more patient.

Thanks! We'll get through it, these darn viruses. I have to say you look marvelous - what the heck did you weigh in high school? You look very healthy and skinny to me. It probably won't take many calories for you to maintain...add a strach in with dinner and an extra fruit or another serving of protein or something. You're aware of it, and that's a good start. If you start feeling sick or tired or cold a lot - you know the signs I'm sure! - then it's time for a change. And we'll tell you if we see it!

 

[pinkle]

Hello everyone! I've been lurking in the background for sometime now. I am really struggling in this challenge. We leave for Disney in 10 days and I need to get with the program because we all know it's not an ideal place for a diet.
Today I've eaten double what I should have....it was serioiusly a hungry day. I get those sometimes. NOTHING SATISFYS!!! I have managed to keep my running up...thank goodness because my weight would have sky rocket after a day like today. WHINE WHINE WHINE
Now I've vented maybe I can 'pull my socks up'
Thanks
tracey

 

[jennz]

Hello everyone! I've been lurking in the background for sometime now. I am really struggling in this challenge. We leave for Disney in 10 days and I need to get with the program because we all know it's not an ideal place for a diet.
Today I've eaten double what I should have....it was serioiusly a hungry day. I get those sometimes. NOTHING SATISFYS!!! I have managed to keep my running up...thank goodness because my weight would have sky rocket after a day like today. WHINE WHINE WHINE
Now I've vented maybe I can 'pull my socks up'
Thanks
tracey

Tracey I have no words of advice but I sure can relate to the nothing satisfies!! Like you said, good thing you've kept your running up. Be proud of that!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Thanks! We'll get through it, these darn viruses. I have to say you look marvelous - what the heck did you weigh in high school? You look very healthy and skinny to me. It probably won't take many calories for you to maintain...add a strach in with dinner and an extra fruit or another serving of protein or something. You're aware of it, and that's a good start. If you start feeling sick or tired or cold a lot - you know the signs I'm sure! - then it's time for a change. And we'll tell you if we see it!

Thanks Jennifer. That's a good way to look at it. I think in my head I wanted to recreate the wheel here, and I was making it harder than I had to. But if I just keep doing what I'm doing and add in a snack or two or an extra serving at dinner, then that will probably take care of things.

I registered for the Princess tonight. As part of the registration you had to pick your favorite princess--I had a hard time, but I picked Ariel.

 

[goldcupmom]

Jennz - the apex cookies I eat are INCREDIBLE! When they had to replace my bodybugg after bad, bad tech support & I contacted the CEO via facebook, he sent me a box of the smores ones. I just found them on 24hourfitness.com and for some reason ended up like $11/box instead of the normal $19.99. I just got a shipment today. Tried the peanut butter caramel & they are good, white chocolate is really good & smores are my fav. I also ordered blueberry cream bars, but haven't tried. the cookies are 4 pts on WW & with a cup of coffee will hold me through the morning.

 

[tigger813]

Good evening all!

to all who need them! I'm putting all of you in my prayers!

DH and I are trying to catch up on Glee from last night. We've been interrupted twice by phone calls since we got home at 7 from soccer practice. DH and I walked the whole time. I did one extra lap so I got in 3.25 + the 3 from this morning. Had a lean pocket for supper and now DH and I are sharing a bag of microwave popcorn. And I'm having another big bottle of water!

Going to get in 2 miles on the elliptical in the morning. DD2 starts kindergarten in the morning so I won't have time to get another workout in. Then I have to go to work. Supposed to work tomorrow night too. I will have a client no matter what even if one cancels as I have another person who can come at a moment's notice. I hope to get in another 3 miles in the afternoon.

Time to finish filling out paperwork for DD1. And of course I get to fill out more tomorrow!

Have a good night!

 

[keenercam]

I did it! I successfully completed Week 1 Day 1 of the C25K!!! I'm going to be honest though, I did it on the treadmill without any incline. I will do W1D2 with some incline and then 2 days of D3 with the full incline. I planned it out this way when I set up my exercise plan for the month. Oh, and I've even started planning out October. I can't believe I just said that! I used to be so adverse to exercising and now I think I'm addicted. Between the C25K and the Wii Fit+, I totaled 90 minutes and I'm debating a 3rd workout for the day.

CC - -That is awesome! Congrats on the great workouts.

I went to visit a friend. We talked and shopped and walked and saw a movie and got tattoo's. It was a trip that will change my life.

Okay, you can't just say something like that and not share details!!! What is the tattoo? Where is the tattoo? Inquiring minds want to know!

When I finished my first Disney marathon, I seriously considered getting a mickey head with a 26.2 in it. But I'm a wimp. I just couldn't bring myself to do it. LOL!

Okay, so after an entire day of sitting on my hind end due to my injured back, I am so ready to get back to a workout!!! I can't yet, though, still sore. Anyway, quick question. Those of you who run...I have a love/hate relationship with it. I haven't been running in months, but I have been motivated recently to work up to a half-marathon. Is that ridiculous? How should I start training (once my back is back in properly working order!)? Thank you!

Holly -- I think the Couch to 5k program is a great start to being able to run 3.1 miles and then if you like it and want to progress, you can start adding miles and time sensibly. I highly recommend John Bingham's "The Courage to Start" "No Need for Speed" and my personal favorite "Marathoning for Mortals". I used MfM to train for all of my 1/2 marathons and my 2 full marathons.

I would like to join as a loser! I don't know how well I can do, but at least I don't want to gain!

Some of you may have read my post about being lucky to be alive, but I truly am. I almost died last week from blood clots in my lungs and arm.

It has given me another lease on life and I am soooo lucky right now. It also makes me realize how much I need to get going on my overall health and finally loose the weight.

I am limited with the exercise I can do right now. I can't use my right arm, and I am only walking a couple of blocks now. Considering I was getting ready to test for black belt, this decrease in exercise has been hard, but I can only do what my body/ lungs feel like doing.

Wishing all of the losers lots of luck and lots of health!

Vija - I join others in thanking God that you are alright, that you were conscientious enough to pay attention to your symptoms and to get help. What a scary situation. Don't worry about the prohibitions on activity right now. You've been through so much. Give yourself a chance to recover.

How fun! It would be nice to incorporate that to the parties as well. But youre right, the adults always have more fun than kids. I can pm you instructions if youre interested in the gingerbread houses. Its sooo easy.

Jeanette - I'd LOVE to have the instructions. Thank you so much! Can you click on my user name and PM them to me?

Hello everyone! I've been lurking in the background for sometime now. I am really struggling in this challenge. We leave for Disney in 10 days and I need to get with the program because we all know it's not an ideal place for a diet.
Today I've eaten double what I should have....it was serioiusly a hungry day. I get those sometimes. NOTHING SATISFYS!!! I have managed to keep my running up...thank goodness because my weight would have sky rocket after a day like today. WHINE WHINE WHINE
Now I've vented maybe I can 'pull my socks up'
Thanks
tracey

Tracey - we all have days like those. I must admit I have to have a combination of protein and carbs to stave off hunger effectively. Lite turkey and fat free cheese on a bagel thin is my current combination of choice.

Jennz - the apex cookies I eat are INCREDIBLE! When they had to replace my bodybugg after bad, bad tech support & I contacted the CEO via facebook, he sent me a box of the smores ones. I just found them on 24hourfitness.com and for some reason ended up like $11/box instead of the normal $19.99. I just got a shipment today. Tried the peanut butter caramel & they are good, white chocolate is really good & smores are my fav. I also ordered blueberry cream bars, but haven't tried. the cookies are 4 pts on WW & with a cup of coffee will hold me through the morning.

Julie -- I just don't know how you do it. I think you deserve WW activity points just for breathing through one of your "normal" days. WOW! You are definitely the busiest person I know. Hugs, my friend. Oh, and those cookies sound delicious!

As for me, I am thrilled to report that before I left my office after 7 pm, I packed a lean cuisine panini and an apple. I went to the gym right from work. I did 40 minutes on the elliptical and burned 350 calories. I ate the apple and panini after my workout so that I wouldn't arrive home voracioius. My second WW weigh in is tomorrow. It may not be pretty due to my lack of discipline over the weekend, but at least I've been back on track for 2 full days now and feel like I am in control again.

 

[jbm02]

Holy cow - just caught up on six pages of posts I missed!!! I know I am going to miss some of what I want to say but here goes...

Hi to all the newcomers!!

Corinna, what a terrific "green" picture!
Vija, I am glad that you are okay. Please, please take it easy. Slow and steady wins the race, right???
Rose, JanA and I will be at the Princess too! I picked Belle and Jen will be sporting Cinderella!! Where are you planning to stay??

So the QOTD is do you suffer from portion distortion? If you don't want to take the quiz, share with us whether you feel comfortable that you know what a serving size is for most of what you eat.

Have a great evening all!

Yes, I do - only 10/16. Although I consistently viewed a portion as smaller than it should have been. Which might be a good thing for potatoes or meat - but not for veggies!!!

I did it! I successfully completed Week 1 Day 1 of the C25K!!!

Yay, CC!!!!:

I had a really good run today! Today was my "speed" day - I have to do it on the dreadmill because I don't know how to really "pace" myself yet. I do .25 at 5.8, then .25 at 7.2, back to 5.8 for the next .25, then up to 7.3and so on. I up the "speed" part by .1 for 6 iterations. I was feeling okay after I finished it so I did 2 more miles at 6.0.

I am scheduled to take my Army physical fitness test (APFT) on Saturday. It consists of a 2 mile run, 2 minutes times sit ups and 2 minutes timed push ups and...the dreaded weigh in. I'm not worried about the run, pushups or sit ups but the weigh in is more of an issue for me. I've NEVER been able to just "make weight" and always end up having my measurements taken to make sure that my BMI is within Army limits. Just once, I want to make weight!!! I am about 2 pounds away right now and am almost afraid to hope I can make it by Saturday...

Time for me to head off to bed. Have a great night everyone!
Jude

 

[JOANNEL]

HI all,

You guys are amazing, I love all the support.

I had a great week end, but was very bad in the eating and drinking! We went to Panama City Beach. My DS # 2 came home from San Antonio and some of his friends from FSU met him there. Needless to say we ate and drank too much.

So I am restarting today. So far good food choices and one step class!!

He goes back to Germany saturday so we don't know when we will see him again. We were going to go for Christmas but now he tells me the girlfriend wants to go, so we shall see.

 

[JOANNEL]

I would like to join as a loser! I don't know how well I can do, but at least I don't want to gain!

Some of you may have read my post about being lucky to be alive, but I truly am. I almost died last week from blood clots in my lungs and arm.

It has given me another lease on life and I am soooo lucky right now. It also makes me realize how much I need to get going on my overall health and finally loose the weight.

I am limited with the exercise I can do right now. I can't use my right arm, and I am only walking a couple of blocks now. Considering I was getting ready to test for black belt, this decrease in exercise has been hard, but I can only do what my body/ lungs feel like doing.

Wishing all of the losers lots of luck and lots of health!

Prayers and hugs for you. Just do what feels right. This is a slow process. Two years ago I took a lot of weight off quickly and it all came back!!

 

[cruisindisney]

Had a good day today! Did 35 minutes on the elipticle this morning and just finished up an hour of Zumba at the Y. Ate well and now I just need to go to bed without a snack!

Finished W1D2 of C25K yesterday. Will have to see what the weather brings tomorrow to see if it is day 3. I now have my husband and my neighbor doing it with me, though my husband is jumping ahead even though they say not to. I do enjoy working out with someone else. It makes it more tolerable.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

So the QOTD is do you suffer from portion distortion? If you don't want to take the quiz, share with us whether you feel comfortable that you know what a serving size is for most of what you eat.

I got 12 out of 16. I think overall I have learned alot about portions but still have a long way to go.

First day of taking the subway to school and back by himself, and no phone in sight.

Wow I was worried for the day my ds has to take the bus to school...I think I would freak if I had to send him alone on a subway. I hope his day got much better.

That's a great description of how I feel after running. What was so weird about the race this weekend, is that I never got that feeling. Maybe cause it was a race, maybe cause of the circumstances, maybe I was way too anxious. Last night when we ran I felt great at the end! I kind of look at running and especially racing like childbirth. On Saturday morning I swore I was never going to run again, and forget racing. After a couple of days you start to forget the really bad parts--or at least the memories become a little duller. Then you find yourself thinking, well mayber it wasn't that bad....

Gosh rose I agree totally with this.

Yesterday was a really hard day for me and with all the support from friends, I made it through the day. I stuck to my list and my plan and was able to stay on plan all day long. It was a struggle not to snack or do bad eating but I was able to fight through it and I feel better today knowing I did it.

Glad to hear your day went well.

[I am frustrated and sad that my knee isn't working right. It is seriously "angry" as Anthony (my physical therapist) says, swollen and not functioning right and we can't figure out why. Last week, I did 2 phsysical therapy sessions (40 minutes of working the knee, including 10 minutes on the elliptical and then strength and balance stuff) and 3 trips to the Y -- (trip 1- 15 minutes bike, trip 2- 30 minutes elliptical and trip 3- 30 minutes bike) -- and it didn't hold up well.

Sorry to hear about your knee Cam. I hope you are feeling better soon.

I feel like I need to apologize for not participating in this thread any better than I have. I really do want to get better about replying to each of you.

No apologies needed connie. I get in the funk too sometimes and as much as I want to respond to everyone I just dont have the energy. You are just as qualified as everyone else to be replying and giving advice. No degrees or experience is needed here.

:And I am very happy to say I my new phone. I got a lg rumor touch. Within 15 minutes of playing with it I figured out how to put my music on there and I have my email set up. It's not the best for internet, but I'm probably on the internet too much anyhow!

Glad the new phone is working out. My dh had a rumor for awhile and loved it.

wellll...after a good start to my day...got work done, showered, you know all the "important" stuff...dd is sick. I just got back from picking her up at school. I guess she'd been trying to break out...er, I mean...call home...since 8:45 this morning. She got sent to the bathroom, to the nurse twice, got fed warm water and salty crackers and finally after 4 hours of this she just told them I wanted her to call me. She's up in bed already. DH caught some upper respiratory thing from a dr he works with; dr. was sick at work sitting next to dh at a meeting, hacking all over him with a 103.5 temp! Dh started getting bad 3 days ago (he's been calling it allergies...I told him the first step to recovery is acceptance), dd was yesterday, then I was up at 3 this morning sneezing away. Hmmm...I should have dis'ed.

Im sorry to hear about the family illness going around. I hope everyone feels better soon.

Agreed! I like that Undercover Boss show too. I've only caught a few episodes, but they really seemed to get it. My job has always been busy, required extra hours during the summer, etc. But now our "busy time" is year-round! We have more projects, fewer staff, no flex options (like work from home), and have been in a wage freeze for 2 years. Gee, I wonder why I'm upset that I'm working so much [unpaid] overtime?! I know I'm just surviving - tons of instant or quick meals (as healthy as I can make them), too stressed to enjoy family time when I finally do get home, not doing much on the weekends, etc. I actually am in a better place with my job in the sense that I'm enjoying the projects I'm working on more than in past years. But there are still only so many hours in the day, and employers need to realize that they've maxed out productivity and have moved into frying their people with the workloads required. (I know the economy is bad, but if there is this much work to be done, there need to be new hires.)

I so know the feeling. We are completely overworked at my job too. We finally are getting small....very small merit increases this year after a wage freeze for 2 years. Hopefully the economy gets better soon. This is ridiculous.

I have been so inspired by all of your stories, I have never lost more than 25 pounds myself. You are all an inspiration. I really enjoyed reading about those of you who completed half marathons this past weekend. I'll post more later, I did complete the quizzes and have been thinking about all the QOTDs, I just didn't want to bombard you all at once. Have a good day everyone!

I think you have come to the right place. This is such a motivating group of people. Welcome

Some of you may have read my post about being lucky to be alive, but I truly am. I almost died last week from blood clots in my lungs and arm.

Wow what a story. Im glad you made it through ok. It must have been very scary for you. I hope you continue to have a good recovery and can get back to your activities soon.

I registered for the Princess tonight. As part of the registration you had to pick your favorite princess--I had a hard time, but I picked Ariel.

Im going to do that this week or weekend. I have been thinking about who I am going to choose and Im leaning towards cinderella.

I am scheduled to take my Army physical fitness test (APFT) on Saturday. It consists of a 2 mile run, 2 minutes times sit ups and 2 minutes timed push ups and...the dreaded weigh in. I'm not worried about the run, pushups or sit ups but the weigh in is more of an issue for me. I've NEVER been able to just "make weight" and always end up having my measurements taken to make sure that my BMI is within Army limits. Just once, I want to make weight!!! I am about 2 pounds away right now and am almost afraid to hope I can make it by Saturday...

Good luck with the test Jude. I am sure you will do great.


Wow when I dont check in all day this thread really takes off. I did really well with eating today and got a 5K run in. Im feeling really on track this week. The scale was down more today Im hoping by friday I can secure a new clippie (30lbs).

 

[dvccruiser76]

Okay that's it! I have to learn how to do those quotes. That will be my goal before next week starts.

Rose&Mike and kathy - I LOVE Disney at Halloween. Halloween and Christmas decoration and party times are my favorite time of year. I supposed if I had to choose between the 2 I'd go with Halloween since I usually time it to coincide with the F&W Festival.

pinkle - I am so jealous. Have a wonderful trip. I think I'm suffering from Disney withdrawal. My husband tries to remind me that we went to DL Paris 2 years ago, but it's just not the same and I don't really want to take my DH until he's 3 or 4. We're doing a Disney cruise next year, so I'm hoping that fills my void

Mmmmmm Welsh Dragon - That is on my list of food, snacks and drinks to try in WDW. It's quite the list. I'm addicted to the food porn thread

mikamah, tigger813, Worfiedoodles and anyone else that I may have missed - I hope the first day of school went well for everyone!

tigger813 - That is my Crystal Light drink of choice as well. I have 3 boxes of the single serving raspberry lemonade in my drawer at work. I'll do the regular lemonade from time to time too and occassionally the fruit punch, but I'm always afraid of spilling the darker ones and staining my clothes at work. I'll have to check out the pilates video. I just ordered the 3 mile walk video from Amazon today. It was pretty cheap, actually cheaper than her website so I'm wondering if it's the real deal or a copy, because there was a strange note about DVD-R's under the item. We shall see.

mikamah - We are neighbors We live over on Ash street. My DH and I walk in your neighborhood a lot. We head downtown, left on Essex, right on Cherry, right on Maple, left on Central, right on Franklin, straight across Chase street all the way down to Bay View ave, follow that to High, take a left then a right at Purchase and another right onto Ash to get home. It's usually me, my DH and our DS in his stroller. What a small world!

Well time for bed, this is late for me but there was so much to catch up with. I'll have to take my quiz in the am. Have a good night everyone

 

[jenanderson]

Connie – Lots of hugs to you! I totally get where you are coming from. I think I lived in a fairly disorganized world but as I get healthier, I find myself wanting to fix many things that I thought were wrong in my life. I don’t know whether it is the fact that I finally have more energy or that I am feeling more positive about myself or what…all I know is that I am taking control of my whole life again and it feels great (well…not my job situation but my home situation). In our house we are cleaning out old storage rooms, keeping a family calendar to organize our lives, eating as a family at the dinner table in the dining room and so much more. I think it is great that you are reaching this point where you are ready to take control of your whole life again. As for not feeling qualified to answer questions….you totally are! You have a lot of great information to share all the time and are so good at supporting people here. We ALL have questions at one point or another and we can learn so much from one another. I hope you know how much I value the things you share!

Jayne – LOVE your new truck! What a fun new vehicle to be driving! I think you are so smart working with your DS to be sure he does not come out of college with big loans. I have big loans and wish that I did not. It is so hard for kids to get through college without the huge loans.

Rose – YEAH! So glad to see that you are in for the Princess! Hopefully we will be able to meet up while we are there! Ahhh…the maintaining dilemma! I get it. I am not looking forward to maintaining because I have a hard time feeling “good” about the day unless I see a downward trend in weight. I know that I am going to have to figure this out soon. You will have to keep posting about your maintaining struggles and successes so that we can all learn from you. I know that you will figure it out!

Jennz – Hope your DD feels better soon! Also…if the KT tape worked, you might want to look into compression socks that do the same thing. I think they work as good as the tape and I can wash and reuse instead of buying new tape all the time.

Dona – Glad to hear that your first days are going well. Sounds like lunch could be a bit of a challenge for you. I gave up on the staff lunchroom long ago. Sometimes I miss visiting with other adults during lunch but I really don’t miss some of the conversations.

CC – WAY TO GO!!!! I am so proud of you for doing W1D1 of the C25K!!! It is fine that you did it on the treadmill with no incline. You are doing so great right now. It sounded like you are a bit concerned about getting the weight off but it will come. I think as you keep going with exercise, eating right and keeping up with the healthy habits – you will find the success you are looking for.

Lisa (liesel) – Welcome to the group! I had never lost more then 25 pounds before I started the challenges either but now I am at 40 pounds gone and it feels great! I had been down more…gained some back…but I am back on track due to being here. Feel free to keep on posting!!!

Holly – Be sure that you take care of your back!! I also have a love/hate relationship with running. If you are looking to get back into it, I would find a running plan that looks like something you could manage (check out the Running World website). Wanting to run a 1/2 marathon is not ridiculous at all – you will just need to find a race that is far enough away that will give you the time to train properly.

Julie – I LOVE my compression socks! You can read an article about compression socks here: http://www.runnersworld.com/article/1,7124,s6-240-320--13079-0,00.html and can learn about some of the brands here: http://www.runnersworld.com/article/1,7124,s6-240-320--13591-0,00.html. I bought mine at a running store and plan on getting a couple more pairs because they make my legs feel so great after I wear them!

Princess Vija – WELCOME!! I am so glad that you were given a 2nd chance at living a healthy life – can’t wait to hear all about you losing weight with us!

Cam – Great job getting back on track! I bet your WW weigh in will not be as bad as you think.

Jude – YOU CAN DO IT! You WILL make weight this time! You have been so good…just keep drinking your water and working hard and you will be successful!! I sent you a special treat in the mail today and hope it will inspire you!

Susan – Great job with all your exercise and the C25K. I am glad that you have company with it now because you are right…having a friend does make the running a bit easier.

Lindsay – YEAH for feeling on track! Sounds like you are doing great with eating well and getting your run in. I bet you will see that new clippie on Friday!

Sharing all positive and good news tonight:
I have had 2 days in a row of journaling, making the best choices, staying on track and following the healthy habits. It is kind of like running - it is so hard to get going but in the end, I feel so much better. I normally do not weigh myself at night but I did check it out a bit tonight and I should be seeing a loss this week if I can keep it up.

I also have to share that I wasn't going to do measurements this challenge but decided that I would just try it out. When I started the challenge in January I did measurements and I am so excited to share that I have lost...get this...a WHOPPING 28.5 inches since January!!! Unreal! That really made me feel great. I know that I am not going to lose a huge amount of inches in this challenge since I am so close to goal but it will be great to track what I do lose.

I have my first sub job tomorrow! It is only for a 1/2 day job but it will get me in a school and I can start connecting with other teachers who might want to request me in the future and I can feel good about teaching kids again! I am so excited!

Finally, I bought the last of what I need for the Mud Run race on Saturday. Tomorrow I am going to use neon fabric paint to write "MUD MAKES ME STRONGER" on the back of my shirt. I am terrified for the race in many ways but excited to try something new.

Alright, I have written a book and it is time for bed. Hugs to all my friends here who are struggling or not feeling positive for any reasons. Cheers to all of you who are staying on track and doing what you know needs to be done! Great job to all of us for being here and not giving up!!!

Night everyone!
Jen

 

[Connie96]

Connie – Lots of hugs to you! I totally get where you are coming from. I think I lived in a fairly disorganized world but as I get healthier, I find myself wanting to fix many things that I thought were wrong in my life. I don’t know whether it is the fact that I finally have more energy or that I am feeling more positive about myself or what…all I know is that I am taking control of my whole life again and it feels great (well…not my job situation but my home situation). In our house we are cleaning out old storage rooms, keeping a family calendar to organize our lives, eating as a family at the dinner table in the dining room and so much more. I think it is great that you are reaching this point where you are ready to take control of your whole life again. As for not feeling qualified to answer questions….you totally are! You have a lot of great information to share all the time and are so good at supporting people here. We ALL have questions at one point or another and we can learn so much from one another. I hope you know how much I value the things you share!

I just have to tell you, there are few things better than when someone just "gets" you. Thank you for that.

I also have to share that I wasn't going to do measurements this challenge but decided that I would just try it out. When I started the challenge in January I did measurements and I am so excited to share that I have lost...get this...a WHOPPING 28.5 inches since January!!! Unreal! That really made me feel great. I know that I am not going to lose a huge amount of inches in this challenge since I am so close to goal but it will be great to track what I do lose.

And THAT is what it's all about!! Jen, this is just flat-out inspiring.



After my longest run ever of just over 8 miles on Wednesday, 8/25, I didn't run again until this past Sunday. A lapse of 11 days. It was HARD. I was hoping for 5 miles, but skipped my last run/walk interval bringing it in at just over 4.5 - I was just spent! Today was supposed to be a running day, but with all the rain, and after such a rotten night of sleep last night, I was not really geared up for it. Some of yall know that my mom started riding her bike along while I run, but we hadn't done that in weeks. I called her to see if she was busy and wanted to join me - she was willing, but also kinda half hoping to get rained out. (I mean, some rain is fine. Enjoyable even. But drenching rain? I'll pass.) I was hoping she'd convince me to go, but we just agreed to see how the weather was like after the next 1/2 hour. Well, it cleared up beautifully, so we had no excuses. Even when we started neither of us was into it. At first, the best part was seeing the bizarre cloud formations behind the storm. But then we got moving and I just gabbed the whole time. By the time we were done - 5 miles later - I felt SO good. It may not have been my best run ever, but it was definitely the best medicine for me today. I want to thank all of you who took the time to me today. I needed it and yall are just awesome!