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

[mikamah]

Poptarts for breakfast?!?

Aren't poptarts made for breakfast? they go in the toaster, so anything that can be toasted is a breakfast food, right? I love cinnamon poptarts, and michael gets mad I don't buy them, but I know once he's in bed, I'll be eating them.

HH Part 2: Try something new. So today I tried a new class. It's called NIA -- kind of like Zumba but a little more ethnic, new age-y. www.nianow.com It was the most fun I've had since I started this little exercise kick of mine! There were about 40 women in there -- about half were older than I am. They were all whooping and hollering and singing and dancing and having a great time. It was a good workout, too. I'll definitely try it again but at 10:30 am it's not a very convenient class time. Thank Jen for the idea!

Have a great evening all!

Wow, that sounds like a really fun class.

I also thank god for not letting me have junk in the house tonight as I feel like eating everything I see. (I had to lighten up on the serious stuff)

I am off to a conference tomorrow in philadelphia. I have to leave at 615am and will get home around 530-6pm. So I will talk to you all later tomorrow.

Thank god for no junk food, but who does the shopping? Good job lindsay. Hope the conference is fun and not to long and boring. On your miralax question, the docs i work with all say miralax is very safe, as much as you need to keep you regular. They always recommend a fiber supplement, plenty of fluids daily, and miralax 1-4 times a day until you are regular. The miralax is fine with water for daily use, but for a full bowel prep, you need the electrolytes of the gatorade.

I'm cautiously optimistic tonight. While driving to work tonight I got a call from one of the companies that I applied to and I have a preliminary phone interview for Thursday morning. That could lead to an actual interview next week. Then I got home from work tonight I had an email from the temp agency that told me I was unemployable and they want to interview me TOMORROW (today now) for a permanent position in their office Hopefully the right job will be offered to me soon. If not, at least I'm starting to get calls.

Sounds like some positive changes could be coming. Good luck.

Hi to everybody! I wish I could spend more time on here, but I'm still busy with the move. We have finished all the renos on the old house, and have a sale pending. Just need the buyer to get his financing approved and do a home inspection. We've started some renos on the new house, so now every evening is busy on the new house. In anther couple weeks we will be moved in. and then life will settle down.

We miss you, but am so happy for you. Congrats on having a buyer, and pixie dust all moves smoothly now.

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 4 Superstars!!
#10- 0.75% - tigger813
#9- 0.88% - lisah0711
#8- 0.95% - lovedvc
#7- 0.97% - SettingSail
#6- 1.30% - dvccruiser76
#5- 1.35% - Dreamer24
#4- 1.38% - KristiMc
#3- 1.68% - carmiedog
#2- 1.98% - debsters41
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge
Week 4 Biggest Loser is:
#1- 3.30% - cruisindisney

Whoo hoo!! Congrats cruisindisney and all our top losers this week!!!! Nice job!!

How do you handle it when people comment on your "diet foods"? Do you just ignore them? Do you just gently remind them that it isn't about a "DIET" but about a healthier lifestyle? Or do you give it to them, both barrels???

I don't usually get bent out of shape about it, but try to say that I can have anything I want, but am choosing not to have whatever right now, and also say how good what I am choosing to have is.

never had the effect it had on us when we took the kids the first time. Steven was 4, Katherine 6. That time, thanks mostly to The Unnoficial Guide was magical. I remember picking up a copy of it at a AAA office. We were officially bitten.

Love your pictures of the kids, especially your son with Belle. So cute.

I was very excited this weekend to acquire 3 body parts—2 severed legs and an arm—all only $4.99 each!

Congrats on the lovely body parts.

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/annemahlum/journal

To all my BL friends, this sweet young lady could use all our prayers today. She is a friend of my oldest.

Short story long- she went to Barcelona for a quick two week vacation with a girlfriend and after 4 days was in a coma and on Dialysis. Her parents flew over and have been there ever since. We have known them since ds was in 6th grade. Makes me thankful for my boring little life every day and how fast it can change.

Thanks!!

So sorry to hear about this poor girl. Sending prayers to her and her family for her recovery.

I will have a hot meal when we get home. I put chicken breasts in the bottom of the pot, then mixed a box of stove top with 1 can of 98%FF cream of chicken soup and a 1/2 cup of water. I put that overtop of the chicken. I hope it gets good.

My aund used to make this when we'd visit her, and it was always good over some mashed potatoes. yum.

The days are getting shorter, school activities are in full swing, there are so many things going on in our lives that are pulling us away from our goals. Maybe you've had a bad week or two. Maybe you are just tired of this whole healthy lifestyle thing. Maybe your inner brat is crying "I don't wanna!" Whatever it is, take a deep breath (maybe a few more). Let your mind calm a bit and ask yourself how giving up on yourself is going to make anything else that is going on in your life any easier? The answer probably is that it won't. So even if it is only one thing today, do something nice for yourself, anything that helps you take one little baby step toward your goals, and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. We are all winners when we stick things out through the good times and the bad! Remember last week how everyone said that they would never give up?

Thanks Lisa. What a good reminder for us all.

I got some Kashi cookies last week. They are about two inches around, have 130 calories, and are kind of like eating a brick but they have oats, craisins, flax seeds and other good stuff in 'em. You'd never want to eat more than one!

Now those sound delightful. I'm gonna guess they won't fill in for some nice buttery shortbreads with my tea, but maybe I'll give them a try. If there the only thing around, it might work.

Then, I wanted "dessert" and the chocolate chip cookies I'd baked Sunday were calling to me. Fortunately, I had Weight Watchers 1 point chocolate chip cookies in the cupboard and ate one of those. They are SOOO delicious. Then, upstairs to read. That didn't last for long. I still wanted something. So I had 2 servings of pretzel thins, a bit of hummus and a laughing cow cheese wedge. I went over my daily points by 4, but am good on activity points and my weekly points allowance, so I am trying not to beat myself up.

Nice job not eating the cookies. You're still in your points, so that is a success!!!

I have a milestone birthday coming up in February and decided last February to lose 50 lbs to match my birthday the next year. Well, up until I found this board I had only lost 11 lbs but I have lost 6 more since joining here!!!

I have quit drinking diet soda and started journalling my food. I try to walk or "wog" every day, do 25 minutes on my elliptical and I take a Yoga class twice a week. When you get older, it gets MUCH, MUCH harder to move the scale. I am not sure if I will make it to 50 lbs but I am going to keep trying.

Good luck to everyone here, keep the good advice and tips coming

Shawn

It's great to meet you. Congrats on your weight loss so far!!

Had my first ever 3 mile run with under a 10 min. pace!!! It was soooo cold, guess that's why! I had on a tank, t-shirt, and ended up going to the car for a jacket, and 2 pairs of shorts!

Whatever caused the weird 2 pound gain last week, thankfully it's gone now. So I'm at a 2+ pound loss for the week. With another run or 2, and really OP eating, I "might" hit my 65 lb. clippie Friday.

I finally feel like I am completely back ready to lose weight! My eating has been really OP, I will be able to get my 3-4 runs in a week. I hope I can keep it up! It's all within me, I have to make the correct decisions. Lord knows decision making is not my strong suit, so we'll see.
Taryn

Congrats on your 3 mile pr.!! That is awesome!!! It's great to see you back on track, and feeling positive again! YOu can do it!!

Good morning from a real "loser" (and not the good kind!)

I went on vacation 2 weeks ago and have come back and have been terrible! I can't seem to get my eating under control and am gaining instead of losing. I am not only frustrated but am getting discouraged. However, the first step is admitting it and moving on...so here I am!

I am jumping back in with 2 feet and hope to see a loss this week. I haven' sent in my updated weight as I am embarrassed, but will this week.

Thanks for being here...I'll catch up on posts tonight after work!

Welcome back!! Hope you had a fun vacation, and it's so true, jump right back in with two feet, and that vacation weight will be gone before you know it.

I'm journalling my food, but last night for dinner, I didn't feel like grilling in the rain, so we had bacon and eggs for supper, which was sooooo good. I haven't had bacon in a long time. I did over indulge, and thought the scale would be up this morning, but is wasn't, so I'm happy. I have to take michael for a flu shot and then to the dentist after school, so after I thought I'd treat him to something fun, either indoor mini-golf or a movie. Don't know what's out for kids movies right now.
I didn't exercise yesterday, so need to do something after work. I'm ready for the rain to be done now so we can get out.
Have a good day.

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Thanks Lisa. What a good reminder for us all.
Now those sound delightful. I'm gonna guess they won't fill in for some nice buttery shortbreads with my tea, but maybe I'll give them a try. If there the only thing around, it might work.

Kathy -- I get the 100 cal packs of Lorna Doone's -- still buttery (ok, not as buttery) shortbread, and yummy with a cup of tea...plus, pre-portioned so you consciously have to know how much you are eating...

Maria

 

[cclovesdis]

Morning!

Last night was better, but I still did not get as much sleep as I would have liked. I may try to nap this morning.

I’m sipping my water again today. Actually, I’m behind in comparison to yesterday. Looking forward to a good day. Need to finish up two applications-one for an almost full-time position and one for a very part-time position. I’m hoping.

Have a great day everyone!

Tracey: for no more headaches! The article you have to read for the WC sounds very interesting. Is it possible for you to post a link to it?

Lindsay: Hope today is a good day! on your long day.

Though looking back, I used to get a nice mellow feeling whenever the World of Disney came on tv once a week.

I miss that! Or am I missing that it’s still on?

Connie: Hope today goes exactly the way you hope it does!

Good luck with the interviews Deb!

Hi to everybody! I wish I could spend more time on here, but I'm still busy with the move. We have finished all the renos on the old house, and have a sale pending. Just need the buyer to get his financing approved and do a home inspection. We've started some renos on the new house, so now every evening is busy on the new house. In anther couple weeks we will be moved in. and then life will settle down.

You have really been busy. Thank you for all you do for us!

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 4 Superstars!!
#10- 0.75% - tigger813
#9- 0.88% - lisah0711
#8- 0.95% - lovedvc
#7- 0.97% - SettingSail
#6- 1.30% - dvccruiser76
#5- 1.35% - Dreamer24
#4- 1.38% - KristiMc
#3- 1.68% - carmiedog
#2- 1.98% - debsters41
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge
Week 4 Biggest Loser is:
#1- 3.30% - cruisindisney

Congrats to all our Top 10 especially cruisindisney!

Hi Shawn! Post any time. You’re doing great so far. I find the support here so helpful. Looks like you are too!

I'm just hogging the thread this morning! Just read an article on Sparkpeople about "Hitting That Big Old Wall". I loved the last line and wanted to share it with everyone!

"If it was easy, everyone could do it. You are the one who will make it. And don't forget the finish line pose!"

Here's to all of us doing the finish line pose!

Great line!

Taryn: I am so glad to hear that you got some sleep. for Brad! And, for the loss!

I am jumping back in with 2 feet and hope to see a loss this week.

for a loss!

Here's the scenario..... you have a good friend who has lost a good bit of weight (let's say more than 50 pounds), but is struggling to maintain/finish her/his weight loss. She/he is close to goal or at goal, but is losing her/his momentum and motivation. She/he has skipped a few scheduled workouts/runs and been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds for a few weeks now. She/he comes to you for advise. What would you say to her/him?

I would ask the person why he/she decided to lose weight and then hope that he/she gets the point. (Can you tell I am awful at giving advice? Oh, and very insecure )

 

[dvccruiser76]

They really don;t know. They are testing her for everything.

I read the link that you posted. How scary. I hope she has a fully recovery soon and that they can figure out what's wrong. It's bad enough being sick in the US where you speak the language perfectly, but to be in another country and not know any doctors make it that much more stressful. Here's hoping for a speedy recovery

Well, for all of you who remember those horrible headaches I was having a few weeks ago, they are gone!

So happy to hear that you're feeling better

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 4 Superstars!!
#10- 0.75% - tigger813
#9- 0.88% - lisah0711
#8- 0.95% - lovedvc
#7- 0.97% - SettingSail
#6- 1.30% - dvccruiser76
#5- 1.35% - Dreamer24
#4- 1.38% - KristiMc
#3- 1.68% - carmiedog
#2- 1.98% - debsters41

Congratulations everyone keep up the great work

Hello fellow BL challengers!

Welcome


So, things have been rather crazy lately. We have the personal tax extension next Friday so work is busy busy busy. I tried posting replies twice last week and got error messages after writing quite a bit, so I got frustrated and logged off.

Anyway, I'm all caught up again. My sinus infection is gone, but I'm still stuffy. Before I see an ENT my doctor wants me to try Claritin for a couple of weeks. If it doesn't clear up then they'll order a nasal x-ray. On a positive note, my doctor is taking me off my blodd pressure meds, so no more high blood pressure. Yay

I've been keeping up with the challenge pretty good. Last week my crohn's was acting up, so I can't take full credit for last week's loss, but this week's I will.

I kept up with the 1 mile walk, bumped it up to 2 miles, then wrapped up with Leslie Sansone's 3 mile walk earlier this week. I am now onto my Step workouts.

Reading the boards has kept me in line. I've worked out pretty much 4-5 times a week since we started with the exception of the week that I had my sinus infection and then I only worked out 3 times. I'm also eating better and trying to drink more fluids, so here's hoping we all have a great weigh in on Friday

 

[pjlla]

Thanks for the and ideas related to my strange rash. I think I figured it out after talking to my DH who helps me fold the laundry. This is what happened...I'm really allergic to grass. SO allergic that I have my DH take his clothes off in the laundry room after he cuts the lawn. I don't know what I was thinking (I wasn't) but I washed his lawn cutting clothes with my pjs. DH said he thought it was strange that my pjs were in the same load as his lawn clothes. Anyway I think the pjs picked up the grass and that's what caused the rash. I'm hoping that I can just wash and rinse them a few times to get the grass pollen out. CRAZY

I'm in the rainy boat weather area too. Just got a message that DD(6) soccer is cancelled tonight.....I'm so glad the coach let us know so early, now I don't have to worry about making the decision.

Kim

Glad you figured out the rash issue and that it wasn't anything big!

Alright... Riddle me this, Batman... What is WRONG with this picture?!?!??

I'm in a funk and eating like an idiot and I feel like crapola. So, to feel better, I KEEP eating under the maniac delusion that if I just keep shoveling it in, somehow I'm going to "get it out of my system" today and miraculously wake up sane again tomorrow morning.

And, even as I'm writing this, I'm trying to think whose candy bowl I can raid where no one will see me...

I need therapy. Seriously. This behavior cannot indicate anything other that complete psychosis.

Oh. And now I have to go to a meeting. Yeah. That'll help with the sanity!

Just KNOWING that it is a mental thing and not a "hunger" thing is a step in the right direction. You can come back from this.

Okay. Are you all ready to be my therapy? I am hoping that this is the bottom and that I will pick myself back up and get back to normal. So here is the confession....

I am sure you have all thought I have disappeared for good...I haven't but I will say that I would love to consider it in some ways. I was going to promise myself to come here tonight, confess my sins and then get my life back in order - including posting all the information for the HH Challenge. Turns out my DD is sick as can be, my son didn't tell me he needed all kinds of things for school tomorrow and there is an application that I must have in tomorrow. This is exactly how things have been going and partly why I have been missing in action. Things have been a bit more then I seriously think I can handle at times and no...I did not get the job I interviewed for on Monday. I keep thinking that I am strong but I am beginning to think that I have a breaking point. I promise that I am not giving up on things but I have so not followed my plan at all and I have not run since Saturday. I am not sure I even feel like running right now. I used to think that running made me stronger but it is not.

I think that I have been punishing myself all week. In fact the day I got the call that I didn't get the job, I opened a one pound bag of licorice and ate the whole darn thing. I knew better and I still ate every last piece. I am normally this totally in control person who takes care of everyone - my family, my friends, my students, etc. I am normally a very positive person who tries to help everyone else think positive. Turns out since August, since I have had to try to find a new job, I am discovering that it is always hard to be positive. This past week has been horrible. As I said, I am not eating right, I am not exercising, I didn't get the job and I have felt like I am basically a loser. Yep, I know that is not the truth when I think rationally but right now that is not happening.

Okay, I know I am going around and around. Basically, I am just wanting you all to know that even though I want to be here for all of you...I might not be the best at it right now. I am sorry. It is just that taking care of myself right now is hard. So I hope you all forgive me if I "disappear" for a few days here and there. I am not quitting though and I know that I can't go back because that would make me really disappointed in me.

I am not going to say that I am done with the pity party (I know I should be). I guess I just feel bad about things and hope you all understand.

I will be back to post the Healthy Habits tasks for the week and such. I have to first go check on my daughter but I will be back.

Jen

We KNOW you aren't quitting.... but you are juggling too many balls right now and one of those balls has hit the ground. Unfortunately it was the "take care of myself" ball. For us women/moms/wives, that is USUALLY the ball that takes the fall.

Do the BEST YOU CAN for the time being, until things settle down and you can pick up that ball again. You can still make healthy meal choices. You can still journal your food..... even if you aren't eating exactly the foods that you think you should. You have learned so many HEALTHY HABITS.... they won't all fall by the wayside within a few crazy weeks. You WILL get through this time.... and hopefully come out stronger and happier in the end.

My dh isn't obese, but he thinks he's invincible and doesn't watch what he eats, doesn't exercise often. It's frustrating when you're trying to adapt a healthier lifestyle and they are eating chips at 10 at night! Just because the bloodwork looks ok, doesn't mean someone doesn't have health problems. My mom, who is one of the fittest people I know, has had two heart attacks in the last couple of years. 90 % blockage each time. The last one was a week after her tests results showed she was in excellent health.

I know nagging isn't the way to go about it, but how do you get your dh on board with you? Anyone have any ideas?

WEll.... if I knew the answer to that question I could make a million dollars!! My DH is also overweight and out of shape. And it seems that even after 3 years of living with a full-time Weight Watcher and regular exerciser, it still hasn't set any example. You have to want to do it FOR YOURSELF!! You can't make him do it.... you can't do it for him. And I agree.... when they get those "healthy" blood results, it just makes them push their heads further in the sand! My DH has a STRONG family history of diabetes and high blood pressure. But yet that doesn't seem to spur him on to get healthier. I'm not sure what will. Wish there was a magic pill for it. I love him and it scares me that my kids might end up losing their father early. I know that sounds dramatic, but it is true!! That would break their hearts! But what can you say to them.... they KNOW they are overweight.... they KNOW they are unhealthy. They need to find the motivation in themselves. All you can do is LEAD BY EXAMPLE. Good luck.

I'm sure pjlla will be on soon with the QOTD. Hope she didn't have problems with the storm.

After the stove issue (which I will likely be without for a week + and cost me probably $500), I got an email EOB from ins. co. After receiving a letter from UHC saying they would pay for DDs mouth splint (TMJ), the denied it! Of course it is already ordered special fitted - $2100 . DH called and was told it was because the letter dated 7/20 was only good if it was done 6/28 - 7/28, but it says that NO WHERE and I called in the day after the fitting, gave them the ref. number so they could tell me what my copay would be & they never said not covered due to dates. So now we have to appeal & pray they pay. Said they can't because they can't approve something that was done not during the approved time frame. Nice if they would have mentioned to us or Dr that time window & Gee, by the time we got the letter, they gave us all of about 48 hours to get in & get it done. I am livid & sick!

Keep after UHC. We have them for the first time this year and it has been NOTHING but hassles! DH found a doctor through the UHC website. He saw the doctor a few times.... and THEN UHC told him that it wasn't an approved provider!! He told them over and over that the doctor was listed right on their own website! And they CONFIRMED THIS FACT! But then insisted that it was some kind of mistake and that he wasn't really an approved provider!! They took this doctor from the website after that.... but then he re-appeared as an approved provider about a week later!! And they are STILL denying DH's bills from this doctor!! How crazy is that!!?? We aren't going to let this one go.... fortunately, DH is good about following up with stuff like this. Honestly though.... this borders on FRAUD in my mind. Keep after them!!

Happy Saturday! I'm afraid that pjlla had her power knocked out in the storm or is ill because I haven't heard from her and she hasn't been on the boards since Thursday night. I'm sending some her way that everything is all right. I'm more worried about her than coaching.

I am worried about pam too. I hope everythings ok.

PJILLA - I am soooo worried about you. I am hoping that the storms knocked out your internet or something "minor". that everything is okay!
Taryn

Pamela- We're worried about you and we hope all is ok.

... day by day because I really hope pjlla is back soon -- we are all worried about her. pjlla that you are back with us soon.

PD to Pam. I hope everything is okay.

Hope Pamela is ok too.

Just checking in to see if Pamela had checked in. Times like these I wish we had phone numbers... Hope you understand what I mean and don't feel like I am a stalker.

I am hoping that pjlla will be back in the morning. I do hope that you are alright Pamela.

pjlla: I hope you are alright!

Pamela- Hope you're ok and online again soon.

I am so touched that so many of you were concerned about me! Honestly, it brings me to tears! Wish I had RL friends that were so concerned! Sorry to make you all worry for nothing.

I'll post a qotd for today. Have a great sunday.

QOTD Sunday- Since we're all disney fans, when did your love for all things disney begin? Did you get the disney magic from the first time you entered a disney park, or was it a love that gradually built up?

My love for Disney began early with the Sunday night TV shows. DGmother and DGfather visited WDW a few times when it first opened and enthralled us with stories about it! I can remember seeing WDW ticket books in their junk drawer! (What I wouldn't give to have those now!)

I took my first trip to WDW with my parents, brother, and grandparents in 1974 and was officially HOOKED! It was truly a magical trip (for kids who had never been out of New England.... never farther from home than a 2 hour drive, it was unbelievable!). It was just the MK and it was absolutely unforgettable. I am fortunate enough to have HOME MOVIES from that trip!!

Sadly, we didn't return until 1983.... took a short trip to see the new EPCOT Center when we went to FL for spring break to visit family friends. It POURED the entire day at Epcot, but it was an amazing thing to see. And our day at MK was nice, but was missing the magic from our childhood (I was in college at this point).

Next visit.... My Disney Honeymoon... it was fun and fabulous and everything.... but I didn't crave a quick return.

Fastforward to late 2001.... the tragedy of 9/11 dropped tourism to record lows and hotel prices to a rock bottom. Combine that with some frequent flier miles that needed to be used and we planned our first family trip with the kids for January 2002. It was SO MUCH FUN, but sadly DS was afraid of many, many things. It was great fun, but wasn't quite as magical as I had hoped. But the memories from that trip are priceless.

Returned in 2004 and it was absolutely a fabulous trip..... as was DL in 2005 and WDW in 2008 again! We are hooked (the kids and I... not so much DH). We talk Disney, dream Disney, think Disney.... you name it!

Want to share something sweet AK did. I had told her that money was extremely tight. (I was having one of those moments, and was a horrible mommy and actually told her that making the house payment was going to be hard this month. Yes, it's going to be hard, but I shouldn't have burdened her with that). Anyway, she has an overnight, charter bus field trip to Jamestown and Williamsburg in November. Its' $150. I thought the next payment was due tomorrow, but it was Friday. She told me after school that her payment had been due that day, and she used her birthday money and paid it herself. I was so proud... I will repay her. I had told her to hang onto her birthday money for spending money for the trip, so I'll make sure she gets it back before then..
Taryn

OMG! This story is so touching. You should be SO PROUD of your mature, responsible, caring little lady!! You are raising her RIGHT!!

Dh and I went to WDW on our Honeymoon in 1992. We had a nice time, but that was not the catalyst for our love of Disney. We stayed in a tent in 100 degree weather. It was so hot and we had no where to go to get out of it. Top that off with sleeping on a plastic blow up mattress...well you get the idea.

We flew down with all of our gear [2 bags each] and used Mears transportation to get us to and from the airport. We relied on WDW transportation otherwise. There were only 3 parks and MGM was brand new, very small. River Country was open, but also small. We had plenty of time in a week to do everything we wanted to, but with the heat I can honestly say that we were ready to come home.

Our next trip was in 1998 when DS1 was 2 1/2 and DS2 was 6 months. It was so very different seeing it through the eyes of my children. That is when our love of Disney truly began. We've been in the summer many times since, but the heat isn't nearly as bad when you have air conditioning while sleeping Since then we've made a dozen trips and bought DVC. We're always trying to fit in the next trip, but also try to plan trips elsewhere every third year or so as we want our kids to experience different parts of America and different parts of the world.

When were you there in 1992? We were there May 18 - 22. STayed at Carribean Beach Resort. Beautiful week.

Morning Everyone!

I will come back on later and reply to some of the posts but I am going to do a quick post now and then come back later and reply.

Yesterday we drove up (early in the morning) to our cabin and finished closing it up for the winter. The boat is now winterized and covered and the cabin is cleaned and closed up. It was a really long day and then we drove back home.

My mom and her boyfriend came to our house to have a late dinner and spend the night. We ordered pizza and she had brought a cake for my birthday. Overall it was not that bad of an eating day (normally my weekends are horrible). I did have some pizza and a small piece of cake but I had eaten light the rest of the day so it was fine.

Today we have had a lazy morning since my mom was here. We cut the coupons (good coupons so we bought 4 papers this week) and watched "Elf" (yes, it is only October but we love this moving). Mom and her boyfriend have left now though so we are going to have some light toast and then go running. It is only about 40° here this morning so I need to pull out some warmer running gear. DH and I are going to run to our favorite park and run around the lake a few times. We have not run all week so we have decided that we will do slow running and walk when needed but at least we will get out and enjoy the day.

Taryn & CC (and anyone else who is trying to watch finances)...I am totally into saving money with coupons and have huge amounts that I am trading with some other people. Even with that...I do have some to share if you are at all interested. Send me a PM or post and we can chat about what coupons would help your family!

Be back later....
Jen

I hope it was a very happy birthday!

I'd love to talk about sharing coupons too!

I officially have sinus infection #2 of the year I feel like someone punched me in both eyes, my teeth hurt and the motion of walking hurts my head. I started antibiotics this morning so hopefully I'll start feeling better soon.

Weren't you already on a Z-pack recently for a sinus infection? Are you sure that it is a NEW infection? Maybe the first one never cleared completely. Whatever the case.... hope you are better verysoon.

BRAD JUST LEFT FOR HIS LAST SUNDAY NIGHT ON 3rd SHIFT!!! I hope I'm not hinging too much on life being wonderful once he's back on 1st! We've kinda gotten used to not having each other around, hope we can transition to co-existing again well. Does that make sense?

Have a great evening. I'm sure I'll be back later!
Taryn

I KNOW it means a LOT to you to have Brad back on first shift! Glad his 3rd shift time is coming to an end!

I just got home from work and have to post what happened. I can't believe it!
This morning when I left for work, I left a steak in the kitchen sink to thaw for my husband's dinner. I had a piece of salmon in the fridge for myself. When we got home, I looked in the sink and it was gone! After searching the house, I found the empty, bloody bag on the floor of the dining room. A short distance away was about half of the thawed, chewed up steak. We came to the conclusion that the cat dragged it out of the sink and into the dining room, then she and the dog worked together to get the bag open. And then I guess the dog took it from there. (I have caught them working together before to get into a closed garbage bag). My poor husband decided to go get himself take out instead of waiting for me to go buy him another steak. I learned my lesson, no food is safe in this house anymore! That cat is an instigator. These things never happened when it was just the dog! But we love her anyway.

They always are....

As you were laughing at my post, I was finding yours hilarious! Today was the first Sunday since football started that my husband didn't lose on his fantasy football. And the Browns won! I'm sure everyone knows how rare that is! Every Sunday up until now I couldn't wait to leave the house to go do my exercise!

I have a small (or big) milestone to report! I haven't been able to wear my wedding rings for about two and a half years now, they weren't sized properly when we got them, but I had been able to squeeze them on at first. On a whim, I just went to try them on. They fit better than when I first got them! (still a tiny bit tight, but wearable) I am so excited! My coworkers don't even know what they look like, lol. The funny thing is, just about three months ago I tried to put them on and couldn't even come close!

Nice NSV!! If you are losing weight in your fingers, you are DEFINITELY losing all over!!

woo hoo - had to share some great news I just got! I got a job I really wanted...it's a 6 month scoring project that runs Jan - June next year, at home with decent pay. The start of a series of good things!

Definitely the start of MANY good things!!

Our brother-in-law fell down the stairs at his house and broke his shoulder -- had emergency surgery today and ended up with a joint replacement. Still waiting to hear what kind of recovery he will be looking at.

MIL was in Iowa moving her sister's things out of assisted living because the sister has been in a nursing home due to a broken leg for four months and is probably not going back to assisted living. They managed to prove that even at 82 and 89 you are never too old to fight with your sister! She is frantic to get back home to help with the patient.

But the good news is that I worked out with my trainer today and I survived! Tomorrow I will try a Nia class -- a more ethnic version of Zumba as I understand it. Last Chance Workout on Wednesday and 50 minutes on the TM Thursday takes me through the calorie burn I need this week even before counting my steps at DL!

And my trainer -- I knew that she was rough, tough, stuff -- is going to Boise for the State Roller Derby Championships -- she is a roller derby queen!

Have a great evening all!

Prayers for your BIL and MIL.... it seems that everything happens at once, doesn't it??

Good luck with your "roller derby queen" trainer!!

Good morning all!
The days are getting shorter, school activities are in full swing, there are so many things going on in our lives that are pulling us away from our goals. Maybe you've had a bad week or two. Maybe you are just tired of this whole healthy lifestyle thing. Maybe your inner brat is crying "I don't wanna!" Whatever it is, take a deep breath (maybe a few more). Let your mind calm a bit and ask yourself how giving up on yourself is going to make anything else that is going on in your life any easier? The answer probably is that it won't. So even if it is only one thing today, do something nice for yourself, anything that helps you take one little baby step toward your goals, and pat yourself on the back for a job well done. We are all winners when we stick things out through the good times and the bad! Remember last week how everyone said that they would never give up?

How did you get so smart??

Hello!

I am back from my girls weekend in CA and I am even further behind on this thread! I went to DL on Sunday and did my first 8am to midnight day. It was so much fun! I did have my mickey ice cream bar (330 calories for anyone looking to plan for one on a future trip) but I planned for it and actually lost a half a pound this weekend! I'm so happy I didn't gain! The Halloween decorations were cute and it was very warm. Living in Colorado, it didn't feel very fall like but it was a nice change. I'll try to at least skim through here so I can see how everyone is doing. Have a great day!

You LOST weight on a vacation? I think I have to hate you!

Hello everyone

My name is Crystal and I'm joining you all!
I'm 25yrs old, mom of two (ds will be 4 in Jan, and dd is 7 weeks tomorrow). I live in BC, Canada.
I still have "baby weight" and would like to lose it. I also have some "non-baby" weight that I need to get rid of as well. I'm thinking I NEED to lose about 50lbs to be in my goal weight range according to my BMI.

We are keeping all pop/soda out of the house, and other than a few treats for my ds and hubby I won't be replenishing any junk food from now on, because it's too easy to grab an unhealthy snack when it's laying around!

Last night I did about 30 mins of the Zumba workout. Tonight I will either use the treadmill for awhile or do some of the 30 Day Shred workout.

I hope everyone is doing well today and staying on track.
Thanks for letting me join

Glad to have you aboard!!!

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/annemahlum/journal

To all my BL friends, this sweet young lady could use all our prayers today. She is a friend of my oldest.

Short story long- she went to Barcelona for a quick two week vacation with a girlfriend and after 4 days was in a coma and on Dialysis. Her parents flew over and have been there ever since. We have known them since ds was in 6th grade. Makes me thankful for my boring little life every day and how fast it can change.

Thanks!!

Sad, sad story. Definitely adding her to my prayer list for today.

Hi Taryn. I was actually writing up a post at the time you posted this, but I lost the stupid thing!

Hey everybody.

I'm sorry that I haven't been around much. I just haven't had much to say.

I've been struggling with *excessive* junk eating. Like I'm only happy if I'm actively shoving some sugary/salty/greasy food into my mouth. Not that it really makes me happy, but it's the only time that I'm not obsessed with what to eat next. It's not a particularly "hormonal" time for me. No major stressors or changes. Just "Katy, bar the door" binge eating. It was so bad last night, that when I ran out of food options that interested me, I got in the car and went to the convenience store for ice cream.

I didn't even weigh-in this week. I just really didn't want to know.

And that's why I haven't been posting. Anything I had to say was just going to be whining and, did anyone really need to hear that from me - AGAIN!? I've been too whiny in my own head. I can't stand me and, for that reason, I didn't think y'all needed to be subjected to me either. And, while I love the support that we offer each other here, I really just couldn't have handled it if someone said that "it's okay" because the way I've been abusing myself is, most definitely, NOT okay. I hope you understand what I mean.

As nutty as this sounds, I have come to the conclusion that I know EXACTLY what I need to do to acquire and maintain the healthy body that I want. And now that I can see where I'm going and how to get there, it's like I'm stuck in a perpetual "I'll start tomorrow" phase.

I told my mom over lunch today that I'm going to put myself back "on the wagon" - at gunpoint, if necessary. (AFTER lunch, of course) I'm to the point where, if I'm ever going to get out of this *junk funk* it's going to take pure, hard-core, mind-over-matter, conscious will-power and it's time to give up the whiny, wimpy, I'll-start-tomorrow BULL. If I keep waiting until I "feel like it", I'm gonna gain 30 pounds before I get my act together and NOBODY wants that.

And, with that, I just wanted to say "I'm back". I still may not get to reply to as many people as I'd like or post as often as I'd like because I've got a couple of work projects that will be occupying all of my work time each day and some of my personal time most evenings between now and the end of January. But, I'm back.

Two victories amidst the insanity...

1) Although I did have a couple of regular sodas (all natural Blue Sky brand) and tea sweetened with a little stevia/Truvia over the past week, I have managed to stay away from the Diet Cokes, etc, since... whenever it was that I said I had my last one. (I posted it here, but I don't really remember when it was... 4 or 5 weeks ago, I guess.??)

2) And, although, I've been blowing off all of my non-running workouts, I have been getting in two good runs each week - a regular (approx 5 mile) run every Tuesday and a long run each Saturday. Last weekend I did 9.33 miles in 1hr 40mins. I'm extremely pleased with that and looking forward to crossing the 10-mile mark this weekend. However, I'm also signed up to walk the AHA Heart Walk this Saturday morning, so I'm not sure how I'm going to get it all in. I'm afraid it may require getting out of bed around 4:30. Surely, the only thing crazier than willingly running 10 miles would have to be willingly getting out of bed at 4:30am to run 10 miles. And I'm not worried about dragging my tired self around the Heart Walk after a 10-mile run - I'll be walking with my 3yo, so I won't be in any hurry at all.



This is a big issue for me. I am the type that, if I could be invisible, I would be. I've mentioned before how, rather than comment on my weight loss, I'd rather someone just say "you look great" or keep their mouth shut. Unless I choose to discuss my personal stuff with someone, my current size, my previous size(s) and what I eat (or don't eat) are NOBODY'S BUSINESS. I do my best just to let it pass when someone comments, but the truth is that it just galls me. I usually end up just sitting there being annoyed. And that's whether the comment is "you must be on a diet" or "not on a diet today, huh?". And what I DON'T say (outloud) is "That's really none of your business, so why don't you take your donut/cake/cookie and shove it up your". Like I said... this one really bugs me.

Through all of this you managed to highlight not one, but TWO victories! That is the kind of positive thinking that will get you through this tough time! And YOU ARE RIGHT.... it isn't okay!!! You AREN'T taking care of yourself.... and friends want the best for each other and we want the best for you! And if you aren't taking care of yourself, you aren't making us happy!!

Looks like I struck a nerve with the QOTD!!

I am hooked on Vitatops after reading the boards last week and they are only 1 point on the WW. I ordered the chocolate variety pack of Vitatops on-line last week since my local stores didn't have enough of a variety and they asked me what flavor I would like to see, so I said Pumpkin.

Thanks!! Maybe they will come through with a pumpkin Vitatop.... wouldn't that be delicious!!??

Hello fellow BL challengers! I am soo excited to be on the top ten list this week. I thought it might be time to say hello. I wanted to tell you all how VERY motivating this board has been for me. Many of your stories have brought me to tears. You never know who may be reading this board and I wanted you to know that you are touching lives. When I think about not exercising or wanting to pig out I think about my online "friends" and what would they say??? (Yes, I do have a whole imaginary world going on in my head)

A little about me....I am a homesick American who followed my husband's job to Germany. We are not military; hubby has just been asked to work for his parent company for 3 years. We have completed 1 year and we have 2 years to go. 21 months to be exact.

I participated in a Dis thread for my August cruise and it was so much fun to meet other families before we sailed. Then, I found this thread and again I am getting a lot out of it!

I have a milestone birthday coming up in February and decided last February to lose 50 lbs to match my birthday the next year. Well, up until I found this board I had only lost 11 lbs but I have lost 6 more since joining here!!!

I have quit drinking diet soda and started journalling my food. I try to walk or "wog" every day, do 25 minutes on my elliptical and I take a Yoga class twice a week. When you get older, it gets MUCH, MUCH harder to move the scale. I am not sure if I will make it to 50 lbs but I am going to keep trying.

Good luck to everyone here, keep the good advice and tips coming.

Shawn

OH YES......I do have 2 questions:
1. Is it OK to use a "15 lbs lost" clippie in my sig even if I didn't lose them on this challenge? (lost some before)
2. Is there a shortcut way to get to this thread?

Thanks

First of all.... thanks for sharing a bit more about yourself!

And for your questions.... I say go ahead with the clippie! You lost it, you earned it! And as for a short cut.... I set my homepage to the Disboards. Then it is quick enough to scroll down to the WISH boards and then click on this thread.... but I think you could set your homepage to bring you directly to the WISH boards.

"If it was easy, everyone could do it. You are the one who will make it. And don't forget the finish line pose!"

Here's to all of us doing the finish line pose!

We ALL really need this today!! Thanks.

Good morning from a real "loser" (and not the good kind!)

I went on vacation 2 weeks ago and have come back and have been terrible! I can't seem to get my eating under control and am gaining instead of losing. I am not only frustrated but am getting discouraged. However, the first step is admitting it and moving on...so here I am!

I am jumping back in with 2 feet and hope to see a loss this week. I haven' sent in my updated weight as I am embarrassed, but will this week.

Thanks for being here...I'll catch up on posts tonight after work!

You are back... you posting, and you are ready to get back on plan! You are doing it! The control will return!

I'm journalling my food, but last night for dinner, I didn't feel like grilling in the rain, so we had bacon and eggs for supper, which was sooooo good. I haven't had bacon in a long time. I did over indulge, and thought the scale would be up this morning, but is wasn't, so I'm happy. I have to take michael for a flu shot and then to the dentist after school, so after I thought I'd treat him to something fun, either indoor mini-golf or a movie. Don't know what's out for kids movies right now.
I didn't exercise yesterday, so need to do something after work. I'm ready for the rain to be done now so we can get out.
Have a good day.

My Mom used to make bacon and fried eggs for dinner a few times a year when we were kids.... it was an ENORMOUS treat!! (Remember, my Mom was healthy before it was fashionable to be healthy!!). Glad you had a good dinner, despite the rain!

Okay.....I've made it through the marathon of pages I had missed!! I actually only missed 11 pages.... not 15.

Sorry if I missed anything really vital. I did the best I could to read everything. I was all set to hit the TM now, but the satellite dish guys are here now, so it will have to wait until after lunch. I've been sitting here reading and replying since about 8:30 am!! My legs are asleep and I need to pee!!

Another somewhat busy day here.... but we were also supposed to be painting the house but it is raining, so that gave us a bit of a break. I'll do the usual laundry, dishes, cooking, vacuuming and then I need to do the usual kid-taxiing this afternoon.

I'm off to chat about last night's BL show...................P

 

[lovedvc]

For the second week in a row I made the list, I truly can't believe it. Maybe I will be able to make it 3 weeks in a row. I have been so out of the loop here lately, I've been bad. Not bad with eating and exercise just bad with getting on here and reading all the postings. Life is just getting in the way, I apologize. Between work, homework, sports and just plain old house stuff I can't keep up. Luckily it has not gotten in the way of my eating and exercise. Just by the time I finish at night I am too tired to read postings. Hopefully soon I will have a lap top and I will be able to add to my multi-tasking. Congratulations to everyone this week. I will try to get here more often.

 

[cruisindisney]

So excited to be the biggest loser for the week! I had an awesome week last week and this week has been so so. I guess I do better when my husband is out of town

I can't tell you how much I needed to read that this morning. I had my annual and mammo yesterday afternoon and this morning got a call that there was something weird in my mammo. So I go back this afternoon for more scans. I'm freaking out! I know it could be nothing, but I'm one of those people who can think of everything that could go wrong and will let myself wallow in the bad what ifs.

Hey, at least the echo came back as nothing major, right! Maybe I'll get good news again.

OK! I'm going to go take my sadness out on the elipticle! Does crying burn calories?

 

[Dreamer24]

I can't believe I made the list! Thank you to all of you for your support. A special thanks to CC, Pjilla and Rose for all of your suggestions. I don't think it's a coincidence that on that week I made as much time as possible and got on this thread multiple times a day. I really need to get on here every day!

 

[my3princes]

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Again.... my apology for being an MIA coach this week. Life just suddenly got busy, busy, busy! I trust you all have been taking good care of each other!

I'll get today's QOTD posted and then try to do a bit of catching up. I won't have time to go all the way back (about 15 pages!!), but I'll do what I can today.

Here's the scenario..... you have a good friend who has lost a good bit of weight (let's say more than 50 pounds), but is struggling to maintain/finish her/his weight loss. She/he is close to goal or at goal, but is losing her/his momentum and motivation. She/he has skipped a few scheduled workouts/runs and been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds for a few weeks now. She/he comes to you for advise. What would you say to her/him?

(And yes, if you know me and hear a little bit of ME in that friend, it isn't a coincidence... )

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

Your friend could be me. I guess I'd tell them exactly what I keep telling myself and hope that one of us would listen You have proven that you can lose weight, you know exactly what it takes and you have the power to do it. Get back into your routine for a couple of months and those pesky pounds will be gone THEN you can ease up a bit in order to maintain. You know this is for a lifetime and trust me the older you get, the harder it gets to lose those last few lbs. Do it now and feel great about it later.

So excited to be the biggest loser for the week! I had an awesome week last week and this week has been so so. I guess I do better when my husband is out of town

I can't tell you how much I needed to read that this morning. I had my annual and mammo yesterday afternoon and this morning got a call that there was something weird in my mammo. So I go back this afternoon for more scans. I'm freaking out! I know it could be nothing, but I'm one of those people who can think of everything that could go wrong and will let myself wallow in the bad what ifs.

Hey, at least the echo came back as nothing major, right! Maybe I'll get good news again.

OK! I'm going to go take my sadness out on the elipticle! Does crying burn calories?

Hopefully it was just a fluke in the xray




pjlla We were at Fort Wilderness from July 26- August 2, 1992.

This sinus infection is probably the first one re emerging after laying low for a few weeks. I never got rid of the cold symptoms the first time, but all of the sinus issues improved greatly and the swollen glands went away. I'm feeling much better with this second course of antibiotics and even the cold symptoms have greatly decreased. I'm hoping to have finally kicked it.

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

Congratulations to all our superstars and especially to our biggest loser, cruisindisney!

I'm seeing some good progress on those goal numbes too!

I just have to comment on your dancing banana! I am on the main computer this morning which is hooked up to my 47" flat screen tv, and I was in the middle of reading your post when my kitten (almost cat) saw it and ran across the room to jump up to the tv and tried to catch the image on the screen. Cracked me up!.

Maybe you need to get your kitty one of those DVDs for cats!

Just hope I can get to 2-3 miles in on the elliptical later today. I have a big bottle of water with me so I will be keeping up with that today. I really am glad I signed up for the weight loss challenge. It is definitely keeping me motivated. And boy the prize money would come in so handy the week before Christmas! If I can hold it together I will have a good loss for the week. I'm way ahead of where I usually am on a Tuesday. I will have to continue the one drink on weekends and working out both days!

Go, Tracey, go! Is your challenge at the Wellness Center? That seems to be working great for you, especially getting rid of the headaches!

Lindsay, enjoy your conference today!

I'm cautiously optimistic tonight. While driving to work tonight I got a call from one of the companies that I applied to and I have a preliminary phone interview for Thursday morning. That could lead to an actual interview next week. Then I got home from work tonight I had an email from the temp agency that told me I was unemployable and they want to interview me TOMORROW (today now) for a permanent position in their office Hopefully the right job will be offered to me soon. If not, at least I'm starting to get calls.

that something works out for you soon, Deb!

Hello fellow BL challengers! I am soo excited to be on the top ten list this week. I thought it might be time to say hello. I wanted to tell you all how VERY motivating this board has been for me. Many of your stories have brought me to tears. You never know who may be reading this board and I wanted you to know that you are touching lives. When I think about not exercising or wanting to pig out I think about my online "friends" and what would they say??? (Yes, I do have a whole imaginary world going on in my head)

A little about me....I am a homesick American who followed my husband's job to Germany. We are not military; hubby has just been asked to work for his parent company for 3 years. We have completed 1 year and we have 2 years to go. 21 months to be exact.

I participated in a Dis thread for my August cruise and it was so much fun to meet other families before we sailed. Then, I found this thread and again I am getting a lot out of it!

I have a milestone birthday coming up in February and decided last February to lose 50 lbs to match my birthday the next year. Well, up until I found this board I had only lost 11 lbs but I have lost 6 more since joining here!!!

I have quit drinking diet soda and started journalling my food. I try to walk or "wog" every day, do 25 minutes on my elliptical and I take a Yoga class twice a week. When you get older, it gets MUCH, MUCH harder to move the scale. I am not sure if I will make it to 50 lbs but I am going to keep trying.

Good luck to everyone here, keep the good advice and tips coming

Shawn

OH YES......I do have 2 questions:
1. Is it OK to use a "15 lbs lost" clippie in my sig even if I didn't lose them on this challenge? (lost some before)
2. Is there a shortcut way to get to this thread?

Great job, Shawn! You can use the clippies regardless of where you lost the weight. You might try bookmarking the thread or click on the link if you are getting the email updates. Don't have a good answer for that question -- sorry!

Whatever caused the weird 2 pound gain last week, thankfully it's gone now. So I'm at a 2+ pound loss for the week. With another run or 2, and really OP eating, I "might" hit my 65 lb. clippie Friday.

I finally feel like I am completely back ready to lose weight! My eating has been really OP, I will be able to get my 3-4 runs in a week. I hope I can keep it up! It's all within me, I have to make the correct decisions. Lord knows decision making is not my strong suit, so we'll see.

Have a great day everyone! Brad is staying tonight to get AK from gym, so hopefully I can get all caught up this evening!

Brad is back and so is Taryn! Here's some for that 65 lb clippie on Friday!

Hi jennz! Nice to see you!

BRB with the rest of the replies.

 

[lisah0711]

Welcome!!!!

Enjoy Germany!!! We were stationed there for 4 years a while ago and loved every minute. Get involved and travel and the time will go too fast!!! My youngest just joined the Airforce and is in Ramstein. We were going to come for Christmas but the girlfriend won out. So hopefully next year!! You are in a great spot, have you been to Garmish? It's beautiful and so close to Austria & Switzerland!!!!! I would love to live over there again, being a little older and wiser!!!

Wow what great memories for your whole family!

Good morning from a real "loser" (and not the good kind!)

I went on vacation 2 weeks ago and have come back and have been terrible! I can't seem to get my eating under control and am gaining instead of losing. I am not only frustrated but am getting discouraged. However, the first step is admitting it and moving on...so here I am!

I am jumping back in with 2 feet and hope to see a loss this week. I haven' sent in my updated weight as I am embarrassed, but will this week.

Thanks for being here...I'll catch up on posts tonight after work!

Glad you are back! Did you have a good time?

Here's the scenario..... you have a good friend who has lost a good bit of weight (let's say more than 50 pounds), but is struggling to maintain/finish her/his weight loss. She/he is close to goal or at goal, but is losing her/his momentum and motivation. She/he has skipped a few scheduled workouts/runs and been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds for a few weeks now. She/he comes to you for advise. What would you say to her/him?

(And yes, if you know me and hear a little bit of ME in that friend, it isn't a coincidence... )

, pjlla, I was thinking this sounded familiar. Is it time to take a break and maintain for a few weeks? I know that you have been maintaining but not as a maintainer but as a loser who is stuck. In other words, set yourself up for success for a few weeks then perhaps reevaluate where you are. How did you choose your goal? Is it WW related or a number that you would like? Are you more worried about losing those last few pounds or being able to maintain the success that you've had? Explore a few new fitness options to see if there is one that you might like. Is there a Nia class at the Y? Maybe a little whooping and hollering and dancing would work for you?

Whatever you decide, I know how hard you've worked to get yourself to where you are now and I know that you have truly made the lifestyle change that is needed to ensure that you are never, ever going back again!

Aren't poptarts made for breakfast? they go in the toaster, so anything that can be toasted is a breakfast food, right? I love cinnamon poptarts, and michael gets mad I don't buy them, but I know once he's in bed, I'll be eating them.

Cinnamon, frosted are my favorite. I might have to work them into my calories if I still have this craving next week.

Kathy -- I get the 100 cal packs of Lorna Doone's -- still buttery (ok, not as buttery) shortbread, and yummy with a cup of tea...plus, pre-portioned so you consciously have to know how much you are eating...

Are they in the cookie section or somewhere else?

CC, for your job apps!

Anyway, I'm all caught up again. My sinus infection is gone, but I'm still stuffy. Before I see an ENT my doctor wants me to try Claritin for a couple of weeks. If it doesn't clear up then they'll order a nasal x-ray. On a positive note, my doctor is taking me off my blodd pressure meds, so no more high blood pressure. Yay

on no blood pressure meds!

For the second week in a row I made the list, I truly can't believe it. Maybe I will be able to make it 3 weeks in a row. I have been so out of the loop here lately, I've been bad. Not bad with eating and exercise just bad with getting on here and reading all the postings. Life is just getting in the way, I apologize. Between work, homework, sports and just plain old house stuff I can't keep up. Luckily it has not gotten in the way of my eating and exercise. Just by the time I finish at night I am too tired to read postings. Hopefully soon I will have a lap top and I will be able to add to my multi-tasking. Congratulations to everyone this week. I will try to get here more often.

Way to go staying on track in spite of your busy times!

So excited to be the biggest loser for the week! I had an awesome week last week and this week has been so so. I guess I do better when my husband is out of town

I can't tell you how much I needed to read that this morning. I had my annual and mammo yesterday afternoon and this morning got a call that there was something weird in my mammo. So I go back this afternoon for more scans. I'm freaking out! I know it could be nothing, but I'm one of those people who can think of everything that could go wrong and will let myself wallow in the bad what ifs.

Hey, at least the echo came back as nothing major, right! Maybe I'll get good news again.

OK! I'm going to go take my sadness out on the elipticle! Does crying burn calories?

, hope that everything goes okay today. After you get through this you should be good for another 50,000 miles!

I can't believe I made the list! Thank you to all of you for your support. A special thanks to CC, Pjilla and Rose for all of your suggestions. I don't think it's a coincidence that on that week I made as much time as possible and got on this thread multiple times a day. I really need to get on here every day!

another loser!

I was surprised to see my name on the the list again. I've never made it in the top 10 three weeks in a row. I'm going to work really hard to make sure that all my hard work isn't undone by this DLR trip.

Have a great day all!

 

[Connie96]

I'm cautiously optimistic tonight. I got a call from one of the companies that I applied to and I have a preliminary phone interview for Thursday morning. That could lead to an actual interview next week. Then I got an email from the temp agency and they want to interview me TOMORROW (today now) for a permanent position in their office :

Good luck with your interviews, Deb. I hope that something works out for you.

Hi to everybody! I wish I could spend more time on here, but I'm still busy with the move. We have finished all the renos on the old house, and have a sale pending. Just need the buyer to get his financing approved and do a home inspection. We've started some renos on the new house, so now every evening is busy on the new house. In another couple weeks we will be moved in. and then life will settle down.

You have got SO much going on, Shannon! I hope everything works out with your buyer. And for getting ready for the move-in!

The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge Week 4 Superstars!!
#10- 0.75% - tigger813
#9- 0.88% - lisah0711
#8- 0.95% - lovedvc
#7- 0.97% - SettingSail
#6- 1.30% - dvccruiser76
#5- 1.35% - Dreamer24
#4- 1.38% - KristiMc
#3- 1.68% - carmiedog
#2- 1.98% - debsters41
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Summer Challenge
Week 4 Biggest Loser is:
#1- 3.30% - cruisindisney

Way to go, Susan!!! You left everyone in your dust this week!!

Everyone is doing so great! Congrats to the TOP 10 and everyone else who’s sticking to their guns. And, for those of you who are struggling – I’m right there with ya! So, I’m wishing everyone a good day TODAY.

Hello fellow BL challengers! I am soo excited to be on the top ten list this week. I thought it might be time to say hello. I wanted to tell you all how VERY motivating this board has been for me. Many of your stories have brought me to tears. You never know who may be reading this board and I wanted you to know that you are touching lives. When I think about not exercising or wanting to pig out I think about my online "friends" and what would they say??? (Yes, I do have a whole imaginary world going on in my head)

Hi Shawn! Welcome and congrats on your Top Ten appearance! I’ve never heard of a “wog” before. What a great word!

Shortcut to the thread… I am subscribed to the thread and I have a bookmark to my subscription page on my iGoogle homepage. (I like to keep all my bookmarks on iGoogle so that I can access them from any computer…)

"If it was easy, everyone could do it. You are the one who will make it. And don't forget the finish line pose!"

I’ll start working on my pose now.

I finally feel like I am completely back ready to lose weight! My eating has been really OP, I will be able to get my 3-4 runs in a week. I hope I can keep it up! It's all within me, I have to make the correct decisions. Lord knows decision making is not my strong suit, so we'll see.

Oh, Taryn, I am so happy for you that you have your DH and your schedule back!!

And, isn’t that the kicker of it all – no matter what we blame our bad decisions on, they’re still our decisions to make. So, here’s to wise decisions for TODAY.

Yes it is weird...why is it that sometimes you feel fine ("you" meaning everyone) and sometimes you could chew your arm off?

Whoever comes up with the solution to that problem should win a Nobel Prize!!

I can't seem to get my eating under control and am gaining instead of losing. I am not only frustrated but am getting discouraged. However, the first step is admitting it and moving on...so here I am!

I am jumping back in with 2 feet and hope to see a loss this week. I haven' sent in my updated weight as I am embarrassed, but will this week.

I’ve been having a bad time of it too. Right now, I’m just trying to do ONE day right. I hope you have a great day today and that it will encourage you to have a good one tomorrow.

Here's the scenario..... you have a good friend who has lost a good bit of weight (let's say more than 50 pounds), but is struggling to maintain/finish her/his weight loss. She/he is close to goal or at goal, but is losing her/his momentum and motivation. She/he has skipped a few scheduled workouts/runs and been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds for a few weeks now. She/he comes to you for advice. What would you say to her/him?

If I had the “right” answer to that one, maybe I could talk myself out of the rut.

It’s like we’re afraid to succeed. Why is that? Maybe it’s because we’re afraid of gaining it back. Maybe it’s because we’re afraid we might find out that we really can’t do it. My theory is that it’s all about fear. I suppose my advice is: Figure out what you’re afraid of and stand up to it – even if you’re still afraid.

Aren't poptarts made for breakfast? they go in the toaster, so anything that can be toasted is a breakfast food, right? I love cinnamon poptarts, and michael gets mad I don't buy them, but I know once he's in bed, I'll be eating them.

I love the brown sugar cinnamon Pop-Tarts. For breakfast or anytime. I absolutely do not buy them anymore. It’s the only way.

I'm journalling my food, but last night for dinner, I didn't feel like grilling in the rain, so we had bacon and eggs for supper, which was sooooo good. I haven't had bacon in a long time. I did over indulge, and thought the scale would be up this morning, but is wasn't, so I'm happy. I have to take michael for a flu shot and then to the dentist after school, so after I thought I'd treat him to something fun, either indoor mini-golf or a movie. Don't know what's out for kids movies right now

The bacon and egg supper sounds yummy. I’m glad you were able to enjoy it without affecting your progress. Kids movies… My sister took her girls (10 and 8) to see Nanny McPhee Returns and they loved it.

Last night was better, but I still did not get as much sleep as I would have liked. I may try to nap this morning.

Adequate sleep is SO important. I think short nights have really contributed to my recent inability to eat sensibly. I hope you are able to get that good sleep you need very soon.

Connie: Hope today goes exactly the way you hope it does!

So far, so good.

Through all of this you managed to highlight not one, but TWO victories! That is the kind of positive thinking that will get you through this tough time! And YOU ARE RIGHT.... it isn't okay!!! You AREN'T taking care of yourself.... and friends want the best for each other and we want the best for you! And if you aren't taking care of yourself, you aren't making us happy!!

Looks like I struck a nerve with the QOTD!!

The fact that the running hadn’t fallen by the wayside was the one thing that kept me from abandoning all of it. I pushed myself thru a hard run last night and I feel SO much better today. I can’t say how I’m going to feel when I get home today, but I am determined to “tough love" myself into getting at least one good day under my belt to fuel the next good day.

For the second week in a row I made the list, I truly can't believe it. Maybe I will be able to make it 3 weeks in a row.

Way to go!!

So excited to be the biggest loser for the week! I had an awesome week last week and this week has been so so. I guess I do better when my husband is out of town

I can't tell you how much I needed to read that this morning. I had my annual and mammo yesterday afternoon and this morning got a call that there was something weird in my mammo.

:Woohoo :Woohoo for being the Biggest Loser of the week!!!

When I had my first mammogram, the tech told me that it’s becoming less unusual to do a call back. Even it’s just a smudge on the film, they have to be absolutely sure. Hang in there and let us know.

I can't believe I made the list! Thank you to all of you for your support. A special thanks to CC, Pjilla and Rose for all of your suggestions. I don't think it's a coincidence that on that week I made as much time as possible and got on this thread multiple times a day. I really need to get on here every day!

Way to go, Dani!!


As for me… I’m having a good day. The first in a couple of weeks. I really appreciate all you guys for your support and sometimes for just letting me find my own way. I am going to face whatever fear it is that I have of succeeding in this endeavor and I’m going to succeed in spite of it.

Have a great Wednesday, folks!!

 

[SettinSail]

Welcome!!!!

Enjoy Germany!!! We were stationed there for 4 years a while ago and loved every minute. Get involved and travel and the time will go too fast!!! My youngest just joined the Airforce and is in Ramstein. We were going to come for Christmas but the girlfriend won out. So hopefully next year!! You are in a great spot, have you been to Garmish? It's beautiful and so close to Austria & Switzerland!!!!! I would love to live over there again, being a little older and wiser!!!

Hi Joannel; thank you sooooo much for your family's service to our country and thanks for the advice. We are about as involved in everything as we can be. It's harder for us non-military Americans here and my husband is the ONLY American working at his company. Most of our friends are other ex-pats we have met at the International School and a few military families.

We have travelled extensively in Southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
They are all beautiful!
If I could travel the whole time I was here, it would be great
Upcoming trips: this weekend to Liepzig and next month to the Lorraine area of France. (December home to USA)

I have been close to Garmish but not there yet - my son has been snowboarding there. I have the Zugspitze on my "to do" list. A friend here whose hubby is AF took me to a bazaar at Ramstein in September - it was HUGE!!

This year is already so much better than the first year but it has definitely been a huge adjustment for us. I might just be too old to go through these life changes at my age, ha ha.

Good luck with your weight loss efforts and I too am thinking of and praying for your young friend in Barcelona.

Shawn

 

[SettinSail]

Thank you all for your warm welcomes and answers to my questions

I have changed my email preferences and bookmarked the thread (DUH!)
as well as added my 10 pound clippie Just 3 lbs away from a 20 pound clippie!

I have been reading every post since we started 4 weeks ago and
it has really motivated me to keep focused.

Hugs to all

Shawn

 

[brinalyn530]

Hey everybody.

I'm sorry that I haven't been around much. I just haven't had much to say.
…
And that's why I haven't been posting. Anything I had to say was just going to be whining and, did anyone really need to hear that from me - AGAIN!? I've been too whiny in my own head. I can't stand me and, for that reason, I didn't think y'all needed to be subjected to me either. And, while I love the support that we offer each other here, I really just couldn't have handled it if someone said that "it's okay" because the way I've been abusing myself is, most definitely, NOT okay. I hope you understand what I mean.

As nutty as this sounds, I have come to the conclusion that I know EXACTLY what I need to do to acquire and maintain the healthy body that I want. And now that I can see where I'm going and how to get there, it's like I'm stuck in a perpetual "I'll start tomorrow" phase.

I told my mom over lunch today that I'm going to put myself back "on the wagon" - at gunpoint, if necessary. (AFTER lunch, of course ) I'm to the point where, if I'm ever going to get out of this *junk funk* it's going to take pure, hard-core, mind-over-matter, conscious will-power and it's time to give up the whiny, wimpy, I'll-start-tomorrow BULL. If I keep waiting until I "feel like it", I'm gonna gain 30 pounds before I get my act together and NOBODY wants that.

And, with that, I just wanted to say "I'm back".

Gosh, Connie, have you been sitting here with me all week? Maybe we were separated at birth or something ? I’ve felt the exact same way since last Wednesday. Stupid rain, stupid Halloween candy taunting me , stupid arctic cold office that keeps me half comatose for the entire day because I’m so cold I can barely move, stupid coworkers who are sweating hot at 65 degrees while I’m sprouting icicles off of my eyelashes . Stupid upper back muscle strain and then stupid me for going ahead and getting my tattoo finished on my left shoulder on Saturday, between those two things I missed a week of running . Then yesterday I was so cold all day that when I headed out for my run I could only go halfway – my muscles were so tight and cold that I thought my legs might just rip off at the knees if I kept going . I have no good food in the house, I didn’t get any laundry finished this past weekend, and my house is a wreck. I feel gross, I feel slow, I feel lazy, and I’m cold. Whew…

However - I am determined to get back on track – I’m going to be writing down my plans this evening while waiting for DS’s baseball game to start or, if the sky opens up like it looks like it’s about to, I’ll start on it as soon as I get home. I have a consultation with a personal trainer tomorrow . The set of Bob Harper’s new DVDs is in the mail to me and should be here next week so I have some new workouts to look forward to as well as the personal trainer . I am going to buy a pretty journal and start my food/exercise journal fresh in a new book that I love . I am going to clean my house this weekend. The laundry will be done and put away this weekend. I will go to the grocery store this weekend. I will make healthy dinners next week and I will resume my workouts and step up my running to prepare for the 10k I’m going to be running on Halloween. I can do this, I know I can because I’ve done it before (except for the 10k part ). I just need to get my head on straight and do it . There, I said it, so shall it be !

Thank you to everyone here: organizers, coaches, fellow losers, maintainers and everyone else who reads these posts for whatever reasons. I am grateful that we have this forum and each other to lean on for support and encouragement! Honestly, posting here that I’m going to do all those things holds me more accountable than I would hold myself – I don’t know if that holds true for everyone, but it is definitely true for me.

Deb – Congrats on the job leads!

Congrats to all of our biggest losers this week!

Taryn – So glad your schedule/life is getting back to normal! I think it’s amazingly sweet of AK to take that burden from you for a while – I can tell you for sure that there aren’t many kids who would do that. She deserves an extra Mommy snuggle session !

Well, that’s about all I have the energy for this afternoon – I’m finally just warming up from the AC still being on in the office this morning! Have a wonderful, on plan evening everyone!

Bree

 

[my3princes]

I don't have time to catch up at the moment, but wanted to thank you all for your support today. I think the interview went really well, it lasted 2 hours and was actually more comfortable conversation then uncomfortable questions. I think it could be a good fit for the company and myself. They hope to make a decision by next Friday. The good news is that there is at most 5 people in the running. Considering that most jobs have hundreds of applicants these days, I guess those are pretty favorable odds. I think my skills are very strong in the key areas that they are looking for. Hopefully tomorrows interview will go equally well.

 

[50sjayne]

Hi Taryn. I was actually writing up a post at the time you posted this, but I lost the stupid thing!

Hey everybody.

I'm sorry that I haven't been around much. I just haven't had much to say.

I've been struggling with *excessive* junk eating. Like I'm only happy if I'm actively shoving some sugary/salty/greasy food into my mouth. Not that it really makes me happy, but it's the only time that I'm not obsessed with what to eat next. It's not a particularly "hormonal" time for me. No major stressors or changes. Just "Katy, bar the door" binge eating. It was so bad last night, that when I ran out of food options that interested me, I got in the car and went to the convenience store for ice cream.

I didn't even weigh-in this week. I just really didn't want to know.

And that's why I haven't been posting. Anything I had to say was just going to be whining and, did anyone really need to hear that from me - AGAIN!? I've been too whiny in my own head. I can't stand me and, for that reason, I didn't think y'all needed to be subjected to me either. And, while I love the support that we offer each other here, I really just couldn't have handled it if someone said that "it's okay" because the way I've been abusing myself is, most definitely, NOT okay. I hope you understand what I mean.

As nutty as this sounds, I have come to the conclusion that I know EXACTLY what I need to do to acquire and maintain the healthy body that I want. And now that I can see where I'm going and how to get there, it's like I'm stuck in a perpetual "I'll start tomorrow" phase.

I told my mom over lunch today that I'm going to put myself back "on the wagon" - at gunpoint, if necessary. (AFTER lunch, of course ) I'm to the point where, if I'm ever going to get out of this *junk funk* it's going to take pure, hard-core, mind-over-matter, conscious will-power and it's time to give up the whiny, wimpy, I'll-start-tomorrow BULL. If I keep waiting until I "feel like it", I'm gonna gain 30 pounds before I get my act together and NOBODY wants that.

And, with that, I just wanted to say "I'm back". I still may not get to reply to as many people as I'd like or post as often as I'd like because I've got a couple of work projects that will be occupying all of my work time each day and some of my personal time most evenings between now and the end of January. But, I'm back.

Two victories amidst the insanity...

1) Although I did have a couple of regular sodas (all natural Blue Sky brand) and tea sweetened with a little stevia/Truvia over the past week, I have managed to stay away from the Diet Cokes, etc, since... whenever it was that I said I had my last one. (I posted it here, but I don't really remember when it was... 4 or 5 weeks ago, I guess.??)

2) And, although, I've been blowing off all of my non-running workouts, I have been getting in two good runs each week - a regular (approx 5 mile) run every Tuesday and a long run each Saturday. Last weekend I did 9.33 miles in 1hr 40mins. I'm extremely pleased with that and looking forward to crossing the 10-mile mark this weekend. However, I'm also signed up to walk the AHA Heart Walk this Saturday morning, so I'm not sure how I'm going to get it all in. I'm afraid it may require getting out of bed around 4:30. Surely, the only thing crazier than willingly running 10 miles would have to be willingly getting out of bed at 4:30am to run 10 miles. And I'm not worried about dragging my tired self around the Heart Walk after a 10-mile run - I'll be walking with my 3yo, so I won't be in any hurry at all.



This is a big issue for me. I am the type that, if I could be invisible, I would be. I've mentioned before how, rather than comment on my weight loss, I'd rather someone just say "you look great" or keep their mouth shut. Unless I choose to discuss my personal stuff with someone, my current size, my previous size(s) and what I eat (or don't eat) are NOBODY'S BUSINESS. I do my best just to let it pass when someone comments, but the truth is that it just galls me. I usually end up just sitting there being annoyed. And that's whether the comment is "you must be on a diet" or "not on a diet today, huh?". And what I DON'T say (outloud) is "That's really none of your business, so why don't you take your donut/cake/cookie and shove it up your ". Like I said... this one really bugs me.

I am in such a hurry right now..but a quick scan of your post brought tears to my eyes. Everyone struggles. Yesterday I ate almost a whole box of wheat thins for 'lunch' and 'dinner'with hummus and laughing cow cheese. Because of my weight gain this week I think I was overdoing it and just--got hungry. Plus with the cramps and heavy flow-- was just feeling sorry for myself and guilt I didn't go help an organization out that helps our union a lot. The 2 glasses of pinot were too much too. **If anyone has a grocery outlet there's some blue pirate pinot noir for $3.99 this week that's great. Could use another year I think to age--but really nice. Anyway, I think just lots of water will help me now--I was good and squeezed out 4 limes in my water jug and had a lot yesterday, will do the same today.

I don't worry too much about what people say. Most people know that I have lost and kept off a lot of weight so I don't get as many questions as I used to, but I am just upfront about it and they can like it or not, that is just the way it is.



If you don't mind me asking...how old are you? I really think that I am premenopausal, but at 41 people tell me I'm crazy.

I'm 42.....umm hmm.

I'm cautiously optimistic tonight. While driving to work tonight I got a call from one of the companies that I applied to and I have a preliminary phone interview for Thursday morning. That could lead to an actual interview next week. Then I got home from work tonight I had an email from the temp agency that told me I was unemployable and they want to interview me TOMORROW (today now) for a permanent position in their office Hopefully the right job will be offered to me soon. If not, at least I'm starting to get calls.

Showed them .

 

[keenercam]

Hi, everyone! I am swamped again, but wanted to stop in and congratulate all of our LOSERS and the maintainers. Congratulations to everyone who is making the effort. Sometimes just "showing up" is the first step to victory.

I have to admit that I am really feeling out of my workout routine. Physical therapy has just been time and energy-consuming. Just making the time to go is trying enough. But when I go at 6:45 a.m., I have to scramble to get home to shower and dress for work. When I go at 7 pm, I have to remember to pack everything in my gym bag to change out of my work clothes into clothes that are functional for physical therapy. Earlier this week, I told my therapist that I am done with visits there. Last night we did strength assessments for my appointment today with my orthopedic specialist. Tomorrow night we will develop a plan of how much and how frequently I can do those leg/hip strengthening exercises at the gym, what equipment to use, what weights, etc. The ortho said this morning that he can't explain all the swelling and pain but we hope that it is because I am doing too much, certainly more than his patients typically would at this point. We have a plan for what we'll do a month from now if there isn't considerable improvement. The good news is that he is wholly supportive of my goal of walking the 1/2 marathon in January and will do all he can to facilitate that. (I was so afraid he was going to say "no how no way".

Okay, back to the work piled on my desk. Be well, everyone. And be good to yourselves.

 

[jbm02]

Hi Joannel; thank you sooooo much for your family's service to our country and thanks for the advice. We are about as involved in everything as we can be. It's harder for us non-military Americans here and my husband is the ONLY American working at his company. Most of our friends are other ex-pats we have met at the International School and a few military families.

We have travelled extensively in Southern Germany, Austria and Switzerland.
They are all beautiful!
If I could travel the whole time I was here, it would be great
Upcoming trips: this weekend to Liepzig and next month to the Lorraine area of France. (December home to USA)

I have been close to Garmish but not there yet - my son has been snowboarding there. I have the Zugspitze on my "to do" list. A friend here whose hubby is AF took me to a bazaar at Ramstein in September - it was HUGE!!

This year is already so much better than the first year but it has definitely been a huge adjustment for us. I might just be too old to go through these life changes at my age, ha ha.

Good luck with your weight loss efforts and I too am thinking of and praying for your young friend in Barcelona.

Shawn

Joannel and Shawn, I loved Germany!! I did an exchange program in high school to Geislingen (not too far from Stuttgart) and am still in close contact with my exchange partner and her family. She now lives is Laupheim. As a language major I was able to do a year aborad during college and was at the Universite de Fribourg, in Fribourg, Switzerland. It was an amazing year - and not the least of which was that my grandfather came to visit me 3x and we travelled to Germany, Austria, Hungary and Italy together to visit/meet relatives. I've been back by myself thanks to military trips but am looking forward to taking my family with me someday...
Shawn, don't miss the Christkindl markets if you can make it there. And my favorite city in all of Europe is Salzburg...

I'm 42.....umm hmm.

45 here. Sigh.

Connie, that's exactly where I was last challenge. It was frustrating as heck because I just couldn't get it in gear. This challenge has been better but SLOW. But then again, if I wasn't thinking about it and trying, I'd be moving in the other - wrong! - direction!!! LOL. One of my friends put it in great perspective for me: even if I lose only 1 pound per month, by this time next year I'd still be 12 pounds less than I am now! As Dory says: "...just keep swimming, swimming, swimming...."

My very first half marathonn is on Sunday. I'm kind of a basket case. I think JenA is ready to shoot me because I have been so insecure about it. I never realized it before but I am kind of competitive. And also in the race are 3 guys I work with (all over 6 ft - why is that important? - because one of their strides is about 3 of mine!! LOL), my 5'9 super svelte SIL, as well as a former rival from HS who I haven't seen in 4 years (I read her name on the list of participnts on the website...) So I am trying to remember that the race is for ME - and not to compare myself to THEM. But it's hard.

..trying to catch up here but I know I am going to forget something:

Deb, congrats!!!!

Shannon, good luck with everything move-related! Just thinking about it makes me tired!! LOL

Taryn, I am so glad this is such a better week for you. Woohooo!!

To all the biggest losers of the week: Way to go!!

CC, thanks!! You're the best!!!

Originally Posted by pjlla
Here's the scenario..... you have a good friend who has lost a good bit of weight (let's say more than 50 pounds), but is struggling to maintain/finish her/his weight loss. She/he is close to goal or at goal, but is losing her/his momentum and motivation. She/he has skipped a few scheduled workouts/runs and been yo-yoing the same 5 pounds for a few weeks now. She/he comes to you for advise. What would you say to her/him?

Pam, I would offer to work out with her/him. That's what happened to me at work. I started skipping 1 day, then 2 days, then 3 days of workouts a week, etc. Finally, my friend Kevin kind of insisted I join him in the gym and from then on, every time he went down he would stop at my office and convince me that I should go too. Pretty soon I was back to my regular gym schedule. He just retired last week and I am goin to miss him so much!!

Time to take my DD11 to cheerleading practice. See everyone tomorrow!!!
Jude

 

[pjlla]

Your friend could be me. I guess I'd tell them exactly what I keep telling myself and hope that one of us would listen You have proven that you can lose weight, you know exactly what it takes and you have the power to do it. Get back into your routine for a couple of months and those pesky pounds will be gone THEN you can ease up a bit in order to maintain. You know this is for a lifetime and trust me the older you get, the harder it gets to lose those last few lbs. Do it now and feel great about it later.

pjlla We were at Fort Wilderness from July 26- August 2, 1992.

This sinus infection is probably the first one re emerging after laying low for a few weeks. I never got rid of the cold symptoms the first time, but all of the sinus issues improved greatly and the swollen glands went away. I'm feeling much better with this second course of antibiotics and even the cold symptoms have greatly decreased. I'm hoping to have finally kicked it.

You're advise to your "friend" is spot on!

Same year for the honeymoon, but different month.

Hopefully the sinus infection heads out this time. Mine lingered for a while past the 5 days of the z-pack, but it seems totally gone now.

, pjlla, I was thinking this sounded familiar. Is it time to take a break and maintain for a few weeks? I know that you have been maintaining but not as a maintainer but as a loser who is stuck. In other words, set yourself up for success for a few weeks then perhaps reevaluate where you are. How did you choose your goal? Is it WW related or a number that you would like? Are you more worried about losing those last few pounds or being able to maintain the success that you've had? Explore a few new fitness options to see if there is one that you might like. Is there a Nia class at the Y? Maybe a little whooping and hollering and dancing would work for you?

Whatever you decide, I know how hard you've worked to get yourself to where you are now and I know that you have truly made the lifestyle change that is needed to ensure that you are never, ever going back again!

I wasn't really specifically talking about myself, but it definitely sounded familiar. But I'm sure that I'm not the only person who goes through things like this.

You are right about setting myself up for failure. It seems like maybe that is what I am doing right now. I had an unexpectedly bad weigh-in this past Friday and it threw me for a loop. I did well that day, but splurged on Saturday.... then did well Sunday... and kind of blew it Monday. My head is all over the place I guess. But I'm trying very hard to pull through this. Thanks so much for the well-needed advise and encouragement.

Gosh, Connie, have you been sitting here with me all week? Maybe we were separated at birth or something ? I’ve felt the exact same way since last Wednesday. Stupid rain, stupid Halloween candy taunting me , stupid arctic cold office that keeps me half comatose for the entire day because I’m so cold I can barely move, stupid coworkers who are sweating hot at 65 degrees while I’m sprouting icicles off of my eyelashes . Stupid upper back muscle strain and then stupid me for going ahead and getting my tattoo finished on my left shoulder on Saturday, between those two things I missed a week of running . Then yesterday I was so cold all day that when I headed out for my run I could only go halfway – my muscles were so tight and cold that I thought my legs might just rip off at the knees if I kept going . I have no good food in the house, I didn’t get any laundry finished this past weekend, and my house is a wreck. I feel gross, I feel slow, I feel lazy, and I’m cold. Whew…

However - I am determined to get back on track – while waiting for DS’s baseball game to start or, if the sky opens up like it looks like it’s about to, I’ll start on it as soon as I get home. I have a consultation with a personal trainer tomorrow . The set of Bob Harper’s new DVDs is in the mail to me and should be here next week so I have some new workouts to look forward to as well as the personal trainer . I am going to buy a pretty journal and start my food/exercise journal fresh in a new book that I love . I am going to clean my house this weekend. The laundry will be done and put away this weekend. I will go to the grocery store this weekend. I will make healthy dinners next week and I will resume my workouts and step up my running to prepare for the 10k I’m going to be running on Halloween. I can do this, I know I can because I’ve done it before (except for the 10k part ). I just need to get my head on straight and do it . There, I said it, so shall it be !

Thank you to everyone here: organizers, coaches, fellow losers, maintainers and everyone else who reads these posts for whatever reasons. I am grateful that we have this forum and each other to lean on for support and encouragement! Honestly, posting here that I’m going to do all those things holds me more accountable than I would hold myself – I don’t know if that holds true for everyone, but it is definitely true for me.

Bree

You are creating a PLAN!! That is what you need to get you on track and keep you on track! If you want to share any of that plan here, we'd be glad to read it and talk about it with you. I'm thinking of writing up a plan for myself for the next few weeks because things seem to be going whacky for me right now too. When I do it, maybe we could compare plans???

Hi, everyone! I am swamped again, but wanted to stop in and congratulate all of our LOSERS and the maintainers. Congratulations to everyone who is making the effort. Sometimes just "showing up" is the first step to victory.

I have to admit that I am really feeling out of my workout routine. Physical therapy has just been time and energy-consuming. Just making the time to go is trying enough. But when I go at 6:45 a.m., I have to scramble to get home to shower and dress for work. When I go at 7 pm, I have to remember to pack everything in my gym bag to change out of my work clothes into clothes that are functional for physical therapy. Earlier this week, I told my therapist that I am done with visits there. Last night we did strength assessments for my appointment today with my orthopedic specialist. Tomorrow night we will develop a plan of how much and how frequently I can do those leg/hip strengthening exercises at the gym, what equipment to use, what weights, etc. The ortho said this morning that he can't explain all the swelling and pain but we hope that it is because I am doing too much, certainly more than his patients typically would at this point. We have a plan for what we'll do a month from now if there isn't considerable improvement. The good news is that he is wholly supportive of my goal of walking the 1/2 marathon in January and will do all he can to facilitate that. (I was so afraid he was going to say "no how no way".

Okay, back to the work piled on my desk. Be well, everyone. And be good to yourselves.

How exciting!! You are going to make it!!

Connie, that's exactly where I was last challenge. It was frustrating as heck because I just couldn't get it in gear. This challenge has been better but SLOW. But then again, if I wasn't thinking about it and trying, I'd be moving in the other - wrong! - direction!!! LOL. One of my friends put it in great perspective for me: even if I lose only 1 pound per month, by this time next year I'd still be 12 pounds less than I am now! As Dory says: "...just keep swimming, swimming, swimming...."

My very first half marathonn is on Sunday. I'm kind of a basket case. I think JenA is ready to shoot me because I have been so insecure about it. I never realized it before but I am kind of competitive. And also in the race are 3 guys I work with (all over 6 ft - why is that important? - because one of their strides is about 3 of mine!! LOL), my 5'9 super svelte SIL, as well as a former rival from HS who I haven't seen in 4 years (I read her name on the list of participnts on the website...) So I am trying to remember that the race is for ME - and not to compare myself to THEM. But it's hard.

..trying to catch up here but I know I am going to forget something:

Pam, I would offer to work out with her/him. That's what happened to me at work. I started skipping 1 day, then 2 days, then 3 days of workouts a week, etc. Finally, my friend Kevin kind of insisted I join him in the gym and from then on, every time he went down he would stop at my office and convince me that I should go too. Pretty soon I was back to my regular gym schedule. He just retired last week and I am goin to miss him so much!!

Time to take my DD11 to cheerleading practice. See everyone tomorrow!!!
Jude

You will do GREAT at the race.... just having the pre-race jitters right now I suppose.

That guy Kevin sounds like a good friend!

Evening all!!

Had a good relatively relaxed day around here after all.

I'm working tomorrow, so I want to post tomorrow's QOTD on here tonight, because I'm sure I won't have time in the morning.

Thursday's QOTD: In addition to getting healthier with your eating and exercise, are there any other areas of your life that you are trying to to get healthier with?

For example... I have stopped microwaving in plastic containers of any kind. I've been feeling guilty about doing it for years and have finally taken steps to stop (like buying a large set of glass containers with snap on lids)... and I am considering ditching the microwave oven all together. We use polycarbonate or stainless steel refillable water bottles almost exclusively.... I VERY RARELY buy bottled water. And I use primarily vinegar and some ammonia for cleaning around the house. While all of these things are "green" they are also much healthier for me and my family.

I'm going to clean up the dinner mess..... tonight was meatloaf sandwiches.... something new for us. DS loves my meatloaf and he saw an episode of "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" where they served these scrumptious meatloaf sandwiches.... so I told him I could add it to the menu. Of course, my meatloaf is MUCH healthier than the one on the TV show, and I didn't fry the slices in grease, but rather I used PAM spray. And I topped DS's and DH's slices with a bit of american cheese. Served these on light whole wheat rolls with a side of organic, Yukon gold oven fries (none for me, of course....) and broccoli. I think the men liked them. My meatloaf is rather "light" and not really dense, so it didn't make a real heavy sandwich. But it was healthy and delicious, so I'm happy. And it made DS happy... what more do I need?

I'm going to get cleaned up before Survivor starts later. TTYL..............P