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

[cclovesdis]

Could someone please explain birth control to me? Maybe I'm naive, or just , but either way, I don't understand why I take it and take it and I still feel like throwing up is in my future? I despise TOM. (Just in case you couldn't tell. )

Now, for some more important things. I sent one e-mail for the day. I need to send one more. I just haven't quite figured out what I'm going to say yet. So, Dising it is.

For part two of the challenge, post your thoughts about emotional support. You can give a shout out thank you to someone, talk about how someone has supported you, post about what has happened when you try to do it on your own or anything else about the topic.

Well, as you know, I have been getting very little support from my parents, especially my mom. My dad believes that salad is a side dish, not something you add meat to for a healthy, low-point meal. He thinks that pasta and rice are staples. Okay, I suppose a cup of whole wheat pasta could fit into my lifestyle once or twice a month, but not 3 cups of regular pasta at least weekly. Mom is constantly insulting me because of how I look and often tells me that I embarrass her. She doesn't want me to go to church with her because I don't look good enough.

You, my fellow BL friends, are my support. The compliments you have given me for coaching last week are endless. I wanted to motivate you and you motivated me. I really want to make my weight goal by the end of this challenge and I kow it is much more likely because of all of you. TIA!



First, I want to thank all of you for the thanks yous for coaching. I really love coaching.

Great job! you are kicking the exercise!!!!! So sorry about your mom. It's about US, not me!!!

Moon? I've heard women that hang together cycle together. BUT Something is in the air, my kids at school have been little monsters for the last 2 days. I mean total nightmare, ankle biting, headache inducing, make you want to lose your religion or quit snots!!!! And it's not just my TOM talking, everyone they've come in contact with leaves sighing and cheering. Add a layout to your routine, and that will be one of AK's tumbling passes! You've done a GREAT job coaching this brood this week!!! THANK YOU!!!!

Thank you, thank you, thank you!

I've heard the same thing! I'll have to check the on the moon.

Sorry to hear about your students. I'm sure you'll have them in ship shape in no time!

Stomache is starting to settle. I was really hoping it was just nerves about going to a wake, but no, it's my friend TOM.

Tonight I had a slight injury. My kids took apart a small wooden table they had and wanted to take it upstairs to do some kind of a show. I dont know what they were trying to do but I let them take it up. I told dh not to yell at them that they were being creative and working together. They had the legs off the table and everything. So I went to sit down on the chair and didnt realize they had one of the legs laying on top of the chair facing outwards. I sat down and the chair leg went into my back and was wedge against the wall. The pain was worst than childbirth I am not even kidding you. I actually started crying it hurt so bad...and it takes alot for me to even say ouch. Nick my 3 year old started crying and my dh just sat there and laughed. I did not find the humor in this at all. He explained that it was funny because how could I not have seen the leg sticking out. Anyway I can barely reach my arm up because my back hurts so bad. I think it is really going to be sore tomorrow.

And that was funny how? I hope your back is feeling better.

On Salem, we live in the next town over, and Salem is insane in October and really something to see. The weekends, if the weather is nice are very busy, there's lots of fall type stands, haunted houses, and it's a great way to people watch. Tons' of people are in costume walking the streets, and some of the costumes are amazing and disturbing. Last year we saw a family, prob 4-5 adults and 5-6 kids dressed as zombies-dead people, and they were pulling a wagon of body parts in blood/jello, and they were eating the jello along the way. Incredible costumes, but I was glad Michael wasn't with me or he would have probably fainted. It's definitely worth a trip, if you don't mind crowds. It's fun to see mid-week, but not everything is open during the week. I haven't done any of the museums in salem, but there are quite a few, the witch museum, pirate museum.

Thanks for the info! I didn't realize costumes were a necessity. I don't know if my BFF is into dressing up that much. I'm kind of a "wear only a witch's hat" girl myself.

Antibiotic belly seems better today... not quite so grumbly and rumbly and gurgly. Not a big yogurt eater and don't currently have any in the house. Suppose I should grab some if I go out today.

Happy Friday Morning all! I hope everyone is feeling good today. I have a decent post-TOM headache (par for the course for me), but have three Advils going to work and should be feeling better soon. Begged off of work because of the headache. Sinuses STILL don't feel totally normal, so that is frustrating me.

Glad to hear your stomach has settled, at least a bit. Not sure about the yogurt based on what Deb shared. When I'm sick, I pretty much avoid all dairy because I'm lactose intolerant and well, you get the picture, so I'm not much of a help here.

Hope the Advil does its job.

OMG!! Before, I was grateful to all our coaches and impressed with how they all kept up with everyone's posts. Now I am like this ---> to each and every one of you who has done this. It is so much fun, but how in the world did you all keep up? LOL!!!! I LOVE that so many people are posting. The wealth of knowledge and the generosity of everyone sharing here blows me away.

In addition to what Lisah said, I want you to know that we all have a different style of coaching and to coach in a way that works for you. I hope this makes sense.

You are doing great!

Now for the BL pointers that I found useful: 100% cranberry juice (no sugar) is great for stopping water retention (I find this especially helpful at TOM). I do a shot a day. They suggested adding to your water, but I find it so bitter, I have to just get it over with.
They say to drink between 1-2 gallons of water a day. (I told them it was just so I would get up and walk up the stairs to the bathroom every 15 minutes)
A banana has as much sugar as a candy bar.
If it's white, it's bad. (I don't like this theory, but it's true unfortunately)
Add super foods to your diet: salmon, berries, flax seed (ground, whole doesn't digest well), oolong tea (Nasty tasting), green tea, nuts
Shop on the outer aisles of the store where the fresh foods are.
Weight loss is a marathon not a sprint.

Interesting list. I'm not sure about the water one. Their minimum is 2x my maximum unless I want to be nowhere other than the bathroom.

I feel you on the cranberry juice. I'd be drinking it the same way. I tend not to drink my calories, but I'm tempted to try this.

Thanks for sharing!

I am leery of the 1-2 gallons of water a day. I have heard some really negative stuff about drinking too much. It can throw off your electrolytes. But I wonder at what volume that is a risk. I'll try to find more information on that to share.

I have heard that too. Definitely something to investigate further.

Speaking of fat from nuts... I don't know anything about WW, but I've seen several people talk about needing to work in the healthy oils... I wonder if a serving of nuts would suffice??

I was always told that the oil had to be in liquid form. Peanut oil, walnut oil, etc. doesn't count either. It's probably the most difficult part of WW for me. I'd much rather add some walnuts to my oatmeal or salad.

 

[my3princes]

Since I see that you are going away this week-end I will wish you an early HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Thank you for the Birthday Wishes

Scale at home I'm using for WI was down 2.2 this morning. Scale at WW was only down 1. Bummer! But, it is never the same with my scale and since I don't make WW every week, I just use my home scale. If it's down, I'll take it!

5 go to foods :
1. light bread with mustard & either 1 pt of ff cheese, or meat = 2 pts
2. jello chocolate sf pudding with a small banana sliced up in it
3. Luna protein bars or Apex cookies
4. egg beaters with ff obrien potatoes and ketchup
5. la tortilla co. tortillas - lg & small are 1 pt, lots of fiber & very good. I put just about anything in them. No one here sells them anymore, so I have to order from Amazon.com or buy when I'm in FL & freeze

As of this morning's walking, I'm only 2.89 from my goal for the year of 750 miles. I really have the urge to go 'get it done', but it's already 90 out.

A couple of questions someone may know the answer to:
1. What speed is considered jogging vs. running? I walk at 12 - 14 min miles depending on terrain & I frequently pass 'joggers'. When I jog, it's at about 7 - 9 min miles. Just curious.

2. Does anyone have Reebok Easy tones? I bought a pair in FL and if I walk more than about 2 miles they kill my knees. Also I normally seem to walk to the outside of my left foot and inside of my right foot(rebuilt outer ankle), but with the easy tones it is just the opposite.

Yes, I'm in a curious mood this morning.

I've managed to log points & record everything on my Bugg, so now I get to order Zumba!!!

New dishwasher gets delivered sometime tomorrow, then we have to install & I have a house to clean as well as the normal errands & stuff, so it's going to be a busy weekend...as usual.

I'm hoping to get a chance to go walk the bosque again or maybe get some hill climbing in, but it will have to be early mornings.

Congrats to everyone on sticking with this another week. Losers, maintainers, or gainers, just keep on doing it! I first joined WW 1/27/2003 and am still not at goal - but I keep going despite life's detours & I WILL eventually get there. As of this morning I'm 18.6 lbs away and have lost over 40 lbs. Like someone earlier today said, it's a marathon! As a breast specialist told me, I can spend my life fighting heart disease, breast cancer and diabetes, or I can spend my life fighting my weight. The choice is mine!

Have a great weekend!

Special thanks to our 'hostesses'! CC & Lisa did a great job & I'm positive Cam and all the rest will as well. NOT an easy task!!

Congrats on the weight loss.

I have Reebok easy tones. I haven't had any issues with my knees or with walking in a different tread pattern. I wear them when I waitress, just walking around and I've even jogged in them. I know that I used to wear crocs to waitress in and my knees killed me. It took me a long time to figure out the correlation. I thought that I was going to need knee surgery. Once it dawned on me I went to a shoe store that actually fit the shoes to your feet and they put me in a well structured shoe and the pain went away. They told me that crocs are too loose on most peoples feet, while they feel comfortable cushion wise they let your foot slop around in them. I suspect that the ball pattern on the bottom of the Easy Tones may be creating a problem for you.

 

[my3princes]

CC, parents can be hard on adult children. I hope you find a job soon and are able to move out of your parent's home. I get along great with my parents since I don't live with them anymore.

 

[liesel]

Hi everyone! I haven't posted this week, but I've been following along.

I was very OP Tues, Wed, and Thurs after my anniversary dinner (with a glass of champagne) on Monday. I had some really great workouts where I could see just how much progress I've made on my strength and endurance since January. But the scale says I'm up a pound this week. I am now into water retention TOM and I might not have the greatest week on the scale next week, but I keep plugging away. I wasn't feeling good about my weight this week, especially after using the BMR calculator and realizing that I was still under my calories every day this week. The weight just doesn't come off for me and I am tired of this plateau that I have been on since starting the thyroid medication 3 months ago. I did measure my waist and discovered that I lost 2 inches this summer-down 4 from January, over halfway to my goal! I wish I had done all my measurements at the beginning of the year so I could track my progress.

Congratulations to everyone who had the big losses this week! I am awe of how hard everyone works!

This next week is going to be busy, too. DH's birthday is on Saturday, there is a birthday party for DS and DD on Sunday, DD's birthday is on Monday, and DS's birthday is on Tuesday. I have lots of special meals to cook, its hard when they are all at once!

QOTD: my five go to foods:
mixed greeens
low fat string cheese
hummus
mini carrots
apples

Happy birthday to everyone celebrating this weekend! Hopefully I can post more later. I will be taking DD to kindergarten soon and I am blowing off a couple of hours to go visit my cousin's new baby in the hospital! The house cleaning can wait a little bit!

 

[Zoesmama03]

CC, Don't let the "scares" scare you off from it. It is a rather interesting read. Most of its stuff we already know deep down inside. That eating real whole grown foods is best. And organic grass-fed beef, organic chicken, free range eggs. Hormones we don't need excess of that come in factory farmed meats. And what I'm sure we could all admit if we are brutally honest with ourselves is that if we can't read the ingredients we shouldn't be eating it. Stuff like that. Mostly its about balancing your hormones to get to homestasis that is great for losing weight or maintaining.
birth control pills make me sick when I first started them YEARS ago. I haven't taken any in oh 6 years or so. I charted to avoid along with a diaphragm and gel. TOM sucks but its better than pills throwing off your body. My diva cup makes TOM a little easier to deal with so I've come to embrace it somewhat but I still don't like it. If your pill is still making you sick try another one. I personally advocate for not at all but understand its not for everyone.
It is hard to live with parents I know that. I never though when I left at 19 that I'd be living with family at 30. The world is broken. I fully understand the troubles of living with people who have totally different ideas of "diet"(not a weight loss meaning of the term) than we do.

Taryn,
All this TOM talk better not give my body any ideas. I'm probably safe only on cycle day 22. I have not even ovulated yet. Of course it would not be too far off for me not to but then I have long cycle usually at those times.

mommyof2pirates,
We have all been there on a day of eating like that. Ouchie that sounds painful. Just like a hubby to laugh. Water is useful it flushes out water retention. I drink a lot of water and then of course my bp med has water pill that leaves me in the bathroom all day. UGH! I'll be sooooooo ready to ditch this pill when I get off 40-50 lbs is usually where it comes back down.

Tracey,
That's some exercise routine. WTG! My 7 year old likes to do the WATP dvd with me sometimes or the first 10-15 minutes anyway. I mentioned we could start walking/jogging at the track when it cools off since she was reading Star Crossed(a candy apple kids series) where the girl was running "track".

Kathy,
Woohoo on the 1.2 loss. Sometimes going over or at the high end of points helps mix things up and you burn more.

Cam,
Thanks for being coach.

Dona,
I need to get back to my nightly yoga routine. I love yoga.

momof2gr8kids,
Baby steps is the way to go for life long changes. I'm not a drinker so alcohol never gets me but bad food so been there. I try to bring healthy dishes to contribute if its a group thing.

Jennifer,
Fun times! Sounds like a good start to the weekend.

Beals,
Wow I'll have to keep that in mind next time I buy kiwi. We do that with avocados(dd and I) already. And I learn the trick to get the "nut" out on Good Eats with Alton Brown. I love that dude. His show is always interesting.

my3prines,
2.5 dance. ooh birthday cheesecake. YUM I had some the other night(no reason though ) my 7 year old doesn't like it. Strange since she loves cheese.
Yes almond milk has calcium. I'd say its safe unless you drink a lot but like I said in my reply to pjlla acidophilus is would counter it. good bacteria is very important to the digestion of dairy. So a little calcium would probably be okay paired with it.

lisah,
I like organic carrots, I prefer taste of whole even though they are more work peeling and all. Sweeter I just wish I could get my tooth fixed so I could chew them better.
Yahy! I was in 3 lb loss club too but I know its all water weight being shoved around since I haven't been exercising even.

pjlla,
yogurt is the okay dairy, but acidophilus when taking antibiotics is a ton better than it since it contains more of the bacteria that is going to help restore the good bacteria when the antibiotics wipe it all out. I take 2-3 with each dose when I'm on antibiotics(always for ear infections. ARGH) Best part is the dairy(milk) can't interfere. I love the chewables(Walgreens carries them) because dd takes them too sometimes and won't swallow pills. They also help with our lactose issues when we eat too much cheese or the occasional ice cream.

Susan,
I agree with you. But bananas aren't enemies. True they may have as much "sugar" as a candy bar but the white sugar is by far worse for us than the healthier natural sugar our bodies do require some of. For 3 of us we go through 15 gallons of drinking water in a 3-4 day period. We drink quite a bit. I think a body eating a lot of the "white stuff" will need more than one eating fresh whole foods. Veggies and fruit have a lot of water and fill in electrolytes even, I believe. Everytime I get to the flaxseed I want to buy some but so afraid it would sit. I love to sprinkle sesame seeds on my salads since I don't get enough calcium otherwise. But flax seed and omega is something I really need.



I think I'm caught up to where I posted last. I need to check in more than once a day to keep up I suppose.

My 5 go to foods:
-spring mix salad greens(sold in huge pre-washed tubs)
-mangoes(delicious breakfast and they keep you erm regular)
-kidney beans(I cheat and get canned but need to try out cooking smaller amounts of the dry(bagged) ones.
-Kroger brand olive oil and vinegar dressing(should learn to make it myself)
-avocados, broccoli, red bell peppers and cucumbers HUGE hits in my home.
-organic carrots(same cost as traditional so why not go organic right?) I can't stand the baby carrots anymore. I use the peeler to put shavings in my salads or stir fry nights.

So I guess that is technically more than 5 things but my go to shopping list basics that help keep me on track.

I need to eat more berries. I'm not a big fan of strawberries but they are growing on me. Blueberries I buy and have to fight dd for any. She takes the carton and eats them all at once for snacks. Hey its good for her. What can I argue.

 

[Dreamer24]

Another learning week for me. Week 1, I did great with exercise but not so good with eating and did not lose at all. Week 2, I did a good job with eating (trying to meat the healthy habits helped) but horrible at exercise and lost .4. This week, I want to try to combine the two. My exercise will be what I did not accomplish last week:
Walk at least 2 miles every day
Gym at least 4 times
C25K W1D1

For the QOTD, I Don't know that I have 5, mine are fruits (apples, bananas, watermelon, strawberriess are all of my favorites), vegetables (carrots, salad, broccoli, green beans), and I also find that when I start the day with hard boiled egg whites, I better throughout the day!

For the HH question, this thread has been great support, my husband, and my mom is very encouraging!

 

[MacG]

I've joined the BL Challenge Disboard since last week and I would like to introduce myself. I am a 44 year old SAH mom. My DH and I have 2 DDs 8 and 6. I taught elementary school for 13 years before I had DD1 and began my SAH career. Now I just love to volunteer at their school

I started WW in April and have lost 18 lbs. Having said that, I've been hovering at that loss for about 2 months. For 20 days of the 2 months, I was on vacation in Paris and then on a Disney 10 day Mediterranean cruise so I can't complain too much about the amount of time I've been hovering.
We did A LOT of walking on our trip.

Now I'm hovering...didn't lose any this week.

I'm very motivated by the loses I've read about so far today!



What are 5 "go-to" foods that help you stay on track?[/QUOTE]

1. Egg substitute
2. Bagel Thins
3. Fiber Plus Antioxidants (just 1/2 bar =.5 WW points - Too much fiber in a whole bar)
4. Light vegetable soup
5. Apples

Keep the great ideas coming!

 

[brinalyn530]

HH Part 2 – Emotional Support
Pretty much everyone I’ve confided in IRL has been supportive for the most part, but you guys here have been amazing. Thank you all for being here.

Friday QOTD - What are 5 "go-to" foods that help you stay on track?
- Almonds
- Bananas
- Salad greens, tomatoes, onions – salad stuff basically
- Skinless, boneless chicken breast – quick and easy
- the lunch meat from Whole Foods (organic, no preservatives, etc.)

Shannon and Deb – Happy Birthday! (since I won’t be checking in tomorrow)

Well, today marks the 7th anniversary of my dad’s accident, so I’m pretty crabby and emotional, anti-social at the moment so forgive me for not replying to more. I’m not sure if I’ve talked about it before or not, but my dad was in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down, it's been really hard on him obviously and the rest of the family too. The “person” who caused the accident drove off. It’s still a pretty sore subject for me sometimes – especially today, but at least I can look forward to an evening by myself with a long run to keep my mind off of things.

Have a great rest of the day everyone!

Bree

 

[keenercam]

I wanted to respond to the Healthy Habits Part 2 --
I get a lot of support from my husband. He is very understanding of what I "want" to eat and what I "can" eat. I can be very candid with him about "please remind me that I don't want to get a ____ at the arts festival" or "please remind me at the restaurant that I want to order whole wheat pasta with steamed veggies" or the like. He is a runner and is currently training for 2 1/2 marathons and a full marathon in the next 6 weeks, so he is also very conscientious about what he eats. So, at home, I am not worried about being sabotaged. I am really fortunate that way.

At work, several of my friends and I share tips about good foods or recipes. It is very easy to be "good" at work because so many people know that I am trying to take off the weight I've gained since I hurt my knee. Outside of work, I have a friend Patty with whom I used to exercise at least 3x/week and she has been a great source of motivation for me to get back to exercising.

In the other areas of my life, I am also fortunate to have supportive friends. I don't know what I would do without this thread and the amazing support and encouragement here. I belong to another bulletin board community and have a sort of blog there where those friends (women only) participate a lot by way of sharing triumphs and encouraging me when my efforts are not yielding the desired results. Checking in at either bulletin board community is often the shot in the arm that I need to keep me energized and working toward my goal.

I admit that I am a pretty "needy" person. I am on this journey solely for my own benefit and yet I am selfish enough to need others to provide the encouragement and support and advice that will help me to succeed. I noticed that next week's WW meeting topic is something about asking for help. And when I saw that, I realized that it is one big change I've made in my life. There is no longer any pretense that I can do this alone or that my success is solely attributable to my efforts and my efforts alone. I am just so fortunate that I have such an amazing emotional support network in place.

Thank you all for what you bring to my daily life. I really appreciate it.

 

[Cupcaker]

Hi everyone! I was down 1.8 for the week! I havent seen that kind of weight loss in a week for a long time. Trying to eat those 5 fruits/veggies a day defnitely helped! it was tough at the beginning, but now Im having fruits/veggies with every meal. Im excited about starting a fresh new week. What also got me motivated was finding out I now fit in my "skinnier" clothes...tightly but it still goes on So now I know Im closing in on my goal. Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Tonight I had a slight injury.

Hope you heal soon. Injuries like those can be very irritating.

What are 5 "go-to" foods that help you stay on track?

Anytime I go to the store I always pick up:
1. Continental Light Vanilla Soy Milk- I recently found out I was definitely Lactose intolerant and it took me a while to find a soy milk I really liked. This one definitely wins and its only 60 calories for 8 oz! Its just a littler harder to find than other soy milks.
2. Organic sliced apple packages. I love that I can just grab one and go.
3. Some kind of healthy frozen meal so that I can grab and go to work.
4. Some kind of fresh veggie like baby carots or small bags of greens so that they wont go bad.
5. Rice square cereal to go with my soy milk Ive been on a kick eating cereal for breakfast so that I can make sure Im getting calcium for the day, otherwise it probably wouldnt. Toasted rice cereal is fat free, way less sugar, and lower calories than other cereals.

On Salem, we live in the next town over, and Salem is insane in October and really something to see. The weekends, if the weather is nice are very busy, there's lots of fall type stands, haunted houses, and it's a great way to people watch. Tons' of people are in costume walking the streets, and some of the costumes are amazing and disturbing. Last year we saw a family, prob 4-5 adults and 5-6 kids dressed as zombies-dead people, and they were pulling a wagon of body parts in blood/jello, and they were eating the jello along the way. Incredible costumes, but I was glad Michael wasn't with me or he would have probably fainted. It's definitely worth a trip, if you don't mind crowds. It's fun to see mid-week, but not everything is open during the week. I haven't done any of the museums in salem, but there are quite a few, the witch museum, pirate museum.

That sounds like so much fun. Hmmm...I wonder how much it costs to fly out there.

I have planned a splurge though, tomorrow is my birthday and I will be having cheesecake. I plan to do a lot of walking so hopefully I'll burn it off, but if not I have all of my weekly points.

HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY! Hope you have the best time ever and enjoy that cheesecake!

Isn't that exciting how well you've done? Great job! You don't have to give people all the details, even if they ask. If they ask how much you lost you could just say "a lot" instead of telling them the number. Or if they want to know how you did it just say "eat less, exercise more." I think most people genuinely are happy for you and don't judge or maybe even hope that you have some secret that will work for them. Just smile and celebrate your success and graciously say "thanks!"

Thank you Lisa . You have totally made me feel better.

Now for the BL pointers that I found useful: 100% cranberry juice (no sugar) is great for stopping water retention (I find this especially helpful at TOM). I do a shot a day. They suggested adding to your water, but I find it so bitter, I have to just get it over with.

Thanks for sharing. I have been looking for something to stop water retention. I will have to try...and probably the same way you do it because I am totally not a fan of cranberry juice!

You, my fellow BL friends, are my support. The compliments you have given me for coaching last week are endless. I wanted to motivate you and you motivated me. I really want to make my weight goal by the end of this challenge and I kow it is much more likely because of all of you. TIA!

You did such a great job! Im positive youre going to reach your goal.

Jeanette

 

[disneymom2one]

I can't figure out quoting right now but my sweet tooth really, really went away when I gave up Diet Coke. I don't know what the connection is but sweets no longer taste that great to me.

As to my support system, my thin husband has been great this time around. He walks with me every morning at 4 am. We live in a safe neighborhood but 4 am is still early. We do laps around our block - 0.6 miles for each one and we do between 4 and 6 of them every day. There are a lot of demands on us (both college profs and we have an autistic teenager) so I know it's a lot to ask. He does it willingly.

My daughter has been great as well. Thankfully, autism did not touch her eating habits - one of the few areas she can be flexible on. So she's been really good about enthusiastically embracing our healthy eating. It's been nice to see.

And you guys are the best. Again, I don't post much but I keep the thread open. Really helps.

 

[pjlla]

I never knew that until I picked up my current prescription and the pharmacist warned me. First he said dairy then he narrowed it to calcium. Does almond milk have calcium in it? Good luck.

Yes it does. I have tried to avoid dairy today. Thanks for the heads up.

1)
Speaking of fat from nuts... I don't know anything about WW, but I've seen several people talk about needing to work in the healthy oils... I wonder if a serving of nuts would suffice??

Like most people said, No it doesn't count for the healthy oils...sadly. Oils are something I definitely should work harder on incorporating. I NEVER, EVER, EVER in almost 3 years on WW have tried to track my oils or even intentionally include them. If they happen, they happen... if not, oh well.

Well, as you know, I have been getting very little support from my parents, especially my mom. My dad believes that salad is a side dish, not something you add meat to for a healthy, low-point meal. He thinks that pasta and rice are staples. Okay, I suppose a cup of whole wheat pasta could fit into my lifestyle once or twice a month, but not 3 cups of regular pasta at least weekly. Mom is constantly insulting me because of how I look and often tells me that I embarrass her. She doesn't want me to go to church with her because I don't look good enough.

You, my fellow BL friends, are my support. The compliments you have given me for coaching last week are endless. I wanted to motivate you and you motivated me. I really want to make my weight goal by the end of this challenge and I kow it is much more likely because of all of you. TIA!

Sorry you feel you don't get enough support at home. Not sure what to say about that. But I'm SO glad you are here with us! Thanks for sharing your feelings....

Yes almond milk has calcium. I'd say its safe unless you drink a lot but like I said in my reply to pjlla acidophilus is would counter it. good bacteria is very important to the digestion of dairy. So a little calcium would probably be okay paired with it.

pjlla,
yogurt is the okay dairy, but acidophilus when taking antibiotics is a ton better than it since it contains more of the bacteria that is going to help restore the good bacteria when the antibiotics wipe it all out. I take 2-3 with each dose when I'm on antibiotics(always for ear infections. ARGH) Best part is the dairy(milk) can't interfere. I love the chewables(Walgreens carries them) because dd takes them too sometimes and won't swallow pills. They also help with our lactose issues when we eat too much cheese or the occasional ice cream.

I haven't thought of acidophilus in years. And since I am rarely on an antibiotic, this isn't a frequent issue for me. No real issues today, so hopefully I won't need any of these things, but thanks to you and everyone who offered a helpful suggestion.

Well, today marks the 7th anniversary of my dad’s accident, so I’m pretty crabby and emotional, anti-social at the moment so forgive me for not replying to more. I’m not sure if I’ve talked about it before or not, but my dad was in a car accident that left him paralyzed from the chest down, it's been really hard on him obviously and the rest of the family too. The “person” who caused the accident drove off. It’s still a pretty sore subject for me sometimes – especially today, but at least I can look forward to an evening by myself with a long run to keep my mind off of things. Have a great rest of the day everyone! Bree

I can understand how this would definitely be a difficult day for you. Hopefully the run tonight will bring on some "feel good" endorphins for you on this tough day.....


Good afternoon everyone. I just wanted to pop over and say hello. We have a busy evening with an out of town soccer game for DS and swim practice for DD. Changed tonight's "planned" menu to make things quicker and easier (game is a last minute change to schedule.... make-up game from Monday).

Tomorrow I will be up and out very early for DD's 5:45 am swim practice. I will go for my first real run in almost 2 weeks while she is swimming. Then I will shower at the Y and head to DS's soccer game. From there it will be a quick trip home so he can shower and then we head to the Cape from there. Probably won't be home from the Cape until very late. Church on Sunday and then I might finally have some time to hop over here!

I ended up making cupcakes to take to the family outing.... but rather than use diet soda (trying to avoid the aspartame) I used plain seltzer.... they came out just fine! Thanks SO much for the idea!

I hope you all have a marvelous weekend!......................P

 

[cherry-pops]

I was offered a part in a new project at work, which means overtime, which means extra cash! Looking forward to it. I fell honored to be asked to take part and the money is just a bonus! My boyfriends (who works for the same company) will also be involved, so overtime x2! YAY!

I printed out all the names of those who participated and drew one name from Part 1 (reporting your points) and one name from Part 2 (chatting about drinking your water). If your name is selected as the winner for one of our prizes, please send me a PM with your address information so I can send your prize!

PART 1 WINNER = Cupcaker
PART 2 WINNER = cherry-pops

Amazing! What a surprise! I will PM you straight away! Thank you.

PART ONE
Drink 6-8 oz of water each day (1 point for each day) ( 1 cup of coffee or tea counts)
Exercise 20 minutes each day (1 point for each day)
Eat 5 fruits and veggies each day (1 point for each day)
Post at least once each day on this thread (1 point for each day).

PART TWO
Post your thoughts about emotional support. You can give a shout out thank you to someone, talk about how someone has supported you, post about what has happened when you try to do it on your own or anything else about the topic.

I have veggies for dinner most evenings, either steamed or in stir-fry meals. The prep time used to bore me, but concentrating on weighing everything gets me through and makes sure I do it.
I try to answer every QOTD, so I'll post at least once a day here.

I have a lot of support from my boyfriend. He helps me eat the right foods and tries to encourage me to exercise. Exercise is not something I find easy or enjoyable, but without him I wouldn't do any at all.

How can you go all week? I have to do mini checks every day or every other day.. It's an obsession! Hope it goes well for you!

If I weighed myself too much I'd get too disheartened with no movement or gains. I think weekly is still too often, but I'm always losing at the moment so I don't mind!

What are 5 "go-to" foods that help you stay on track?

We tend to always buy the same foods when we go grocery shopping, but I do get a Sunday treat where I can pick any meal I want so I usually switch that up for variety!
My five 'go-to' foods would be:
- soup (easy portion control)
- snack-a-jacks rice cakes (sweet enough for sugar cravings)
- snack packs of grapes (buying big packs go to waste, small packs are good for portion control too)
- chicken breast (stir-fried, roasted, it can be eaten in so many different ways)
- ketchup! (can't eat some things without it!)

 

[keenercam]

CC -- I am so sorry you aren't getting any support at home. I just can't even imagine saying such a thing to my DD as your Mom has commented about you going to church with her. I've just never thought that trying to shame someone into doing something or changing was effective. (Do you mind me asking how old you are? My DD is 22. If you're not too old and I'm not too young, I'll adopt you!! She'd love to have a "sister" )

I was very OP Tues, Wed, and Thurs after my anniversary dinner (with a glass of champagne) on Monday. I had some really great workouts where I could see just how much progress I've made on my strength and endurance since January. But the scale says I'm up a pound this week. I am now into water retention TOM and I might not have the greatest week on the scale next week, but I keep plugging away. I wasn't feeling good about my weight this week, especially after using the BMR calculator and realizing that I was still under my calories every day this week. The weight just doesn't come off for me and I am tired of this plateau that I have been on since starting the thyroid medication 3 months ago. I did measure my waist and discovered that I lost 2 inches this summer-down 4 from January, over halfway to my goal! I wish I had done all my measurements at the beginning of the year so I could track my progress.

Lisa, Don't worry. The pounds will come off. Plateaus are so hard, but you are doing great sticking to it. Congratulations on your AWESOME inches lost!!! WOW! 4 inches lost from your waist since January is certainly something to be proud of!

Yahy! I was in 3 lb loss club too but I know its all water weight being shoved around since I haven't been exercising even.

....
I need to eat more berries. I'm not a big fan of strawberries but they are growing on me. Blueberries I buy and have to fight dd for any. She takes the carton and eats them all at once for snacks. Hey its good for her. What can I argue.

Congratulations on your loss. And how wonderful that Zoe enjoys fruits and veggies! You are teaching her well!


Dani -- Great plan to combine the eating and exercise this week! I can't wait to hear how it goes. So glad you have a great support system!

I've joined the BL Challenge Disboard since last week and I would like to introduce myself. I am a 44 year old SAH mom. My DH and I have 2 DDs 8 and 6. I taught elementary school for 13 years before I had DD1 and began my SAH career. Now I just love to volunteer at their school

I started WW in April and have lost 18 lbs. Having said that, I've been hovering at that loss for about 2 months. For 20 days of the 2 months, I was on vacation in Paris and then on a Disney 10 day Mediterranean cruise so I can't complain too much about the amount of time I've been hovering.
We did A LOT of walking on our trip.

Kim -- It's great to see you here. I am sure that now that you are home and in a routine, you'll start to see more movement on the scale, but WOW! 18 pounds is awesome!! Did you do a trip report on your 10 night Med cruise? We are going next summer and I LOVE to read the trip reports. I am learning all sorts of great tips.

Bree -- What a tragic accident your Dad suffered. I can't believe that the person who changed all of your lives so irrevocably drove away. I hope you can enjoy your run tonight and just put everything out of your mind.

Hi everyone! I was down 1.8 for the week! I havent seen that kind of weight loss in a week for a long time.

Great loss, Jeanette!!! You can be our spokesperson this week for diligence on the fruits and veggies!

As to my support system, my thin husband has been great this time around. He walks with me every morning at 4 am. We live in a safe neighborhood but 4 am is still early. We do laps around our block - 0.6 miles for each one and we do between 4 and 6 of them every day. There are a lot of demands on us (both college profs and we have an autistic teenager) so I know it's a lot to ask. He does it willingly.

MB, Now that's love!! I'd so enjoy having that time alone with DH every morning. I am so glad that your DH is sharing your journey, literally.

Pamela - -Have a great weekend!! Wow! What an early morning you'll have tomorrow. I give your DD a lot of credit for that kind of dedication and discipline. Enjoy your run! Glad the cupcakes turned out well. Have never thought to try plain seltzer. Hmmm.... wonder how raspberry flavored seltzer would make them taste?

Cheryl -- Congrats on the overtime x2!!! I hope the new project is interesting for you and DBF.

 

[jenanderson]

Hey Everyone! I am going to finally take time to really post. It has been a really hard week emotionally and I will share parts of it. Here we go...

1. Subbing - I have been trying to get a job as you all know and that didn't happen. I have been subbing and I thought I had finally found acceptance with this situation. Subbing is not all that hard most days but I have had a couple where I swear you could not pay me enough to go back to those classes. The hardest part is that I am pretty much working full time and that doesn't leave much time to apply for other jobs.

2. Tutoring - I have started tutoring some longer hours. I usually only tutor in the summer but since I am subbing and not earning enough, I have to tutor. I am now up to 4 days of tutoring a week right after school.

3. Applications - I have been trying to still apply for open jobs or long term sub positions. I still struggle with how to get the essay questions all answered and write letters to principals and do everything else that it requires to apply.

** Do you see how all my hours in the day are being filled too quickly?

4. The kids and husband - Oh my. The start of the school year has been good but a transition. Kids have dance 6 days a week now. There is immense homework, especially since DD is in all honors or AP classes. DH is a teacher and is having to implement many new programs and is stressed beyond belief.

So, before I even start the next part, you can see how there is no time in my life right now. I am struggling to keep running (although I do it because I swear it is what keeps me sane) and to stay on track with my diet.

As I said, I thought I was content with subbing and suddenly I got a call for an interview. I did not even want to tell too many people about it because I am tired of hoping and not getting the job. So, I worked on my portfolio, studying information about the school and spent hours preparing for it. I did not post about it here either. I have been trying to be optimistic but not get my hopes up too high. Well, they were suppose to notify people ASAP because they want to open the new classroom early next week. I have not heard so I am now to assume that I did not get the job. This has been emotionally draining on me again. I would like to think that I am a stronger person but it really shows me that I am not. So, it was the up ad down emotions again and I just did not feel like coming here and making you all live through it with me.

Here is what is going to pick me back up and make me keep on moving forward....I have decided that I am not weak and I am not giving in. I will post about my mud race later tonight (have to run DD to dance in a few minutes) but I will say that I finished in the top 1/3 out of all the participants...men and woman. There were 1600 people who started the race and 400 never even crossed the finish line. I have looked at the photos, thought about all the wonderful things you all said here and thought about how strong I felt. I have decided that I am an amazing person and that this moment in my life is hard but I will run through it with a smile on my face like I do each race.

Time to run to dance but now you all know why I have been gone this week. I will be back because I am moving on and moving forward. Later everyone!

Jen

 

[Rose&Mike]

I have two minutes before I have to change to get ready to go out tonight. It is like 97 degrees here! Ugh! So hot! I read some replies this morning while Mike was still sleeping, but I am now pages behind. Someone pm me if I miss something important.

Cam--we are at University of South Carolina. It was actually Ds's safety school, but when we visited he just loved it so much. Took me a little while to be able to say the mascot out loud.

CC--

Go to foods--
luna bars
string cheese
unsalted nuts--whatever is on sale
mini whole wheat bagels
any kind of fruit

Usually for lunch on days I'm working I take 2 string cheese, a mini bagel, nuts and fruit.

Have a great day!

 

[JOANNEL]

What is a luna bar?

 

[keenercam]

As I said, I thought I was content with subbing and suddenly I got a call for an interview. I did not even want to tell too many people about it because I am tired of hoping and not getting the job. So, I worked on my portfolio, studying information about the school and spent hours preparing for it. I did not post about it here either. I have been trying to be optimistic but not get my hopes up too high. Well, they were suppose to notify people ASAP because they want to open the new classroom early next week. I have not heard so I am now to assume that I did not get the job. This has been emotionally draining on me again. I would like to think that I am a stronger person but it really shows me that I am not. So, it was the up ad down emotions again and I just did not feel like coming here and making you all live through it with me.

Here is what is going to pick me back up and make me keep on moving forward....I have decided that I am not weak and I am not giving in. I will post about my mud race later tonight (have to run DD to dance in a few minutes) but I will say that I finished in the top 1/3 out of all the participants...men and woman. There were 1600 people who started the race and 400 never even crossed the finish line. I have looked at the photos, thought about all the wonderful things you all said here and thought about how strong I felt. I have decided that I am an amazing person and that this moment in my life is hard but I will run through it with a smile on my face like I do each race.

Jen - Congratulations on that awesome, awesome finish to your race!! You are right to think of this time in your life, these trials, as another race. You are so strong and determined and someone is going to realize you are exactly the right person for their school. I hope it is sooner, rather than later (i.e., a 5k instead of a marathon. )

Cam--we are at University of South Carolina. It was actually Ds's safety school, but when we visited he just loved it so much. Took me a little while to be able to say the mascot out loud.

Rose - That is what I thought. Andrew LOVED University of South Carolina!! We drove down there this summer and while I wasn't thrilled with the thought of him being 11 hours away from home, we couldn't help but love the campus. It's in Columbia, right?

What is a luna bar?

Joanne - It is like a sport bar, enriched with nutrients. And there are varieties. I usually find it near the sport bars and Target seemed to have the best prices on them when I used to buy them frequently.

 

[cruisindisney]

I agree with you. But bananas aren't enemies. True they may have as much "sugar" as a candy bar but the white sugar is by far worse for us than the healthier natural sugar our bodies do require some of. For 3 of us we go through 15 gallons of drinking water in a 3-4 day period. We drink quite a bit. I think a body eating a lot of the "white stuff" will need more than one eating fresh whole foods. Veggies and fruit have a lot of water and fill in electrolytes even, I believe.

Just telling you what the Biggest Loser contestants told us since someone asked. Not that it's the gospel. I know bananas aren't the enemies. This is information they gave us and if you did what they said to do, you lost weight. I lost 33 lbs in 12 weeks, so they knew what they were talking about. Take it as you want.

 

[tigger813]

Well, Friday kicked in! Of course, just as I was getting ready to do my 5K on the elliptical they called and said my car was ready so I went to get it and that got me out of the mood to workout and then it was the series finale for ATWT. It was very well done. And then when DH got home I made us drinks and ordered pizza, breadsticks and onion rings. I won't be drinking the rest of the weekend. I plan on taking hummus and pita bread that is 60 calories a slice with me tomorrow. I will also take water, CL, and one can of soda. I will get up early and do at least 2 miles before heading out for the day. Not sure what we'll have for supper tomorrow as I won't be home until after 5.

Family game time now. We watched Project Runway while eating dinner and I just set up Star Wars Trouble for all of us to play before the girls go to bed. I'm also in the middle of doing some laundry. Weather is going to be great this weekend! I'm excited and happy to be working at this fair!

Have a great night and weekend. Not sure when I'll get on this weekend.