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

[my3princes]

We're heading to the Big E tomorrow. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from here so we'll be leaving early and return very late. I haven't been in so many years. Hopefully it will be fun for all ages.

 

[corinnak]

First of all, Thanks Cam for coaching! Your questions and support were fantastic!

Thank you for sharing this Corinna. And thank you for sharing the blog posts and the quotes.
And you and Stephanie(?) looked like you were having a great time!

I'm always glad to share - I hope it wasn't TOO much on an already busy thread.

It was so great to see Stephanie - and bless her for smiling - I know I was, at that point, pretty darned smelly. Well, not me so much as my WISH racing shirt. The good news is: I've got a new one, so the old stinky one can be retired.

About the bolded part.... there shouldn't be any such thing as a "horrible run." You got up, you moved your body in a healthy way, you burned calories, you built muscle and strengthened your bones. It COULD NOT have been horrible!

This stuff is good to bear in mind after a horrible run! I have had a few horrible ones myself - not that there was nothing good to come of them, but the experience of them can at times be miserable. A lot of people call that kind of run a "Stonker" and fortunately, it seems like the next run after a dreadful one is often of the BEST, most enjoyable variety. Possibly by comparison.

Corrina.... I am so moved by everything you said. I have been feeling a bit like I'm slipping lately too... lackluster exercise, shortened runs, slacking on the food journaling. You put what I am feeling into words and SO eloquently!! Thank you so much for taking the time to share all of that! I am going to print it out (if you don't mind) and add it to the inspiration pocket of my journal. ...... Okay... I'm going to CREATE an inspiration pocket in my journal just for those blogs!! I'd love to talk more indepth about it, but I'm short on time right now. TTYL, okay??

I think we all have peaks and valleys along the way. Of course, you are welcome to print off whatever you like - it's a public forum, after all. I'd appreciate if you share it with anyone else that you attribute it appropriately, of course.

And I'm always happy to chat with you, Pamela! Any time!

The reward comes EVERY MORNING when I wake up and realize it is NOT a dream.... I really have lost almost 90 pounds and wear a solid size 6.... I can run 5 miles without dying. I don't cringe everytime I get dressed or look in a mirror. I'm not afraid of embarrassing my kids.... all of that is reward enough.

DO I sense a chocolate pattern here!!?? Btw, I'll be looking for you over at the WW site, okay??

First:
I LOVE what you wrote there - it's a tribute to why it is worth all the trouble we all go to to lose each individual pound, and why it is worth fighting to stay at a healthy weight. You're living the good life, and I love that you take a moment to appreciate it every morning when you wake up!

Second:
Uh, yeah. There might be a chocolate pattern there. It's not a crime! Definitely say hi at the WW site - it'd be great to see you over there!

Well it is such a sad story: She is 31, has 2 kids ages 7 and 5. She got divorced 1 1/2 yrs ago and it is messy. She was diagnosed with a brain tumor 2 years ago. We were together one weekend and that week her husband now ex called to tell me she had a grand mal siezure and was in ICU. They found the tumor and it is inoperable.

Oh, this is such a sad, sad story. I will hold a good thought for your friend and her kids.

Also wanted to share a triumph this morning--I am a SLOW walker--usually at abt 20 min miles. Well - earlier this week I timed a 1/2 mile with walking to the song 'Buenos Aires' from the Evita movie--and it turned out to be at a 18:30 pace for me. So this morning I started at a 'normal' pace--and then that song came on and I decided to keep up with that song as long as I could--and I kept it up for 2 1/4 miles!!! (12 times through the song) Of course by the end of that I felt like I couldn't breathe and I wanted to fall down on my bed--but I was still over a mile from my house--so I just kept swimming all the way home There is hope for my time after all!!

Liz - this is Fantastic! And of course there is hope for your time - you are going to improve quickly, pushing yourself like that. Next time you work out, you will be stronger for it. I love that song from Evita as well - I worked backstage on a production of it a few years ago, and that was always one of the most fun parts of the show.

QOTD: I started this in Jan 2010 with no particular goal or 'thing' happening. This time - I am getting ready for walking the half in January--so that is my main focus right now with exercise. But I know that this is a lifetime journey for me--and so it won't end - it won't end after the half, it won't end after this challenge - it won't end for me when I reach goal (though at this point I don't even know what my end goal is) - and it won't end when I am in maintenance--which will be for as long as I am blessed to live on this wonderful world of ours

I'll look forward to meeting you in January - I hope it is warmer than last year, but not TOO much warmer! Have you done a half before? I apologize if I missed your writing about this before - the thread has my head spinning!

And the part I italicized - VERY well put. I'm right there with ya - it's a long, haul we're in for - good thing we've got excellent company for the journey.

Corinna – Thanks for posting your blogs. All of the insight from the maintainers is really helpful to me to kind of picture a plan of attack for when I get there. I appreciate that you guys still participate in these challenges and share your thoughts and feelings on the process (of losing and of maintaining). And you guys look great and so happy in that picture!

Aww, thanks! I do have to point out one little thing:

I'm actually a Loser again.

I gained a few back over the summer and am off the "Maintainer's" list for the moment. I caught it at 5 pounds rather than 50 (which is my usual gig) so I think it is a form of maintaining. I appreciate that we're allowed to stick around after we reach our goals, as it's more like being in recovery or remission than a full fledged cure.

Regarding "OP" I agree with the "On Plan" translation. I know some people (especially WW people) also seem to think it means "On Point" but to me, even though I count points myself....I'm not quite sure what that phrase would mean.

Also, sometimes on boards like this, people will refer to "the OP" as well, usually when answering a question posed at the start of a new thread. In that case, OP stands for Original Poster.


9/24 Friday QOTD:As we get closer to the holidays do you think your family will accept new recipes that will help you keep on track?


Well, my kids don't really like food. Yeah, it doesn't make sense to me either! In reality, we do have our traditional Vegetarian Thanksgiving dishes, but most of them are more important to me and my DH than they are to the boys, I think. If there are rolls, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie, those guys are happy.

Last year, I made a really smart change to my Cheddar Vegetable Pot Pie individual pot pies with just a small circle of crust on top. The filling is pretty points friendly in the first place. I've been using 2% cheese all along. It was a huge success, though not as gorgeous as making a HUGE double-layer pot pie. Oh well. My mushroom gravy is also actually really points friendly, for gravy.


It was kind of a busy day for me today. I went to my first WW meeting since July. I am still too close to the top of my range, so I felt I couldn't wear jeans to weigh in if I had a hope of going as a "free" lifetime member. So I put on tights and a lightweight short skirt, lightweight blouse...no watch. All sort of silly - I don't usually like to game the scale like that. Next week, I hope to be able to weigh in wearing pants.

After that, I went to the mall to try on some dresses for this wedding that I am suddenly roped into next month. Crazy times, but I'm glad to be at a place where I can just go and try on formal wear without too much distress. It's a bit of a blow to the ego - the saleslady asked me what size I needed and I said I wasn't sure, but guessed based on the number in my jeans. Well, of course, I'm 2 sizes up from that in fancy dresses!

All righty - it is SO past bedtime here. Have a great weekend all you WONDERFUL Losers and Maintainers!!!!

 

[CptJackSparrowsGirl]

Hey oh, I'm back to trying to lose weight after some medical issues.
I found out through it that one of the things I have is Type 2 Diabetes so it is a good idea that I lose the weight for my health.

 

[corinnak]

Welcome back, Kailey!!! I'm sorry about the news from the doctor - It's not fun hearing you've got Type 2, but hopefully the diagnosis is first step to reclaiming your health and feeling better. I'm glad to see you back here again!

 

[Cupcaker]

Just got out of work a little while ago. I did 12 hours today because I want to make sure I have nothing pending while Im in WDW. I will definitely be busy until I leave. Im so excited about this trip. I will now dub it my reward for my weight loss. The challenge will be to stay OP while there. We got the free dining package and are staying at POP century. I will have to do some menu planning before I leave. Is anyone going to be there on those dates?

Fair was fun. Ran into MIL and FIL, and they paid for one of the girls' wristbands while we were trying to decide what to do about them. AK found a friend, stepped out of her comfort zone a bit, rode some of the rides she had said she wouldn't. Sophie wanted to ride them all, little daredevil! They rode some together. This was the first year that we let AK walk around with a friend. Rite of passage. Made me want to hug them more! DH decided that these fried balls of dough were cheaper than the funnel cake, got more for his money, so he bought those. Well, I took a bite and they were NASTY!!!! Saved me some calories, for sure! Stayed from 5:30-10pm.

Im glad you had a good time! AK's story is so cute. Tell her not to grow up too fast

My mom called a little bit ago and informed me that we are meeting friends for dinner (which I’m excited about, but wish I had known before I got dressed this morning…) and I am so looking forward to the crabcake salad at the place we are going to, so yummy even without dressing! I better finish up here and get going!

Hope your crabcake salad was super yummy.

My mom had rented some rooms so that we could use the indoor pool. My mom wanted a pool party for her birthday. All the kids and the grandkids had a great time in the pool. My mom had gotten everyone water guns and we had a ball. There was no one else in the pool so it our own private party. It was a very memorable birthday.

That sounds like a super fun party! What wonderful memories you must all have.

Overall I am feel much better today. I have never been so glad to get to friday eve. This week was complete insanity at work. I think the full moon has something to do with it. I am really going to sit back and relax and enjoy this weekend.

I managed to loose another .6lbs. At least its a loss and not a gain and believe me with the past couple of days I have had Off plan I am thankful for the .6 gone. I need to measure myself this weekend. Im curious to see the results if any.

Glad youre feeling better. Being friday definitely helps. Congratulations on your loss

So, Paul and I decided to pull up the carpet and throw it out, pull off the baseboards, dry things out and then use the $500 we would have spent for the deductible toward new carpeting b/c I am not to sure of the "dry out the carpet" plan - I feel it will take long to dry and it will get mildewy -
So much for insurance - I don't think new carpet will cost too very much - the room isn't huge -

Great plan. I think its even better than what they would have done. You even get new carpets over possibly mildewy carpet.

In fact, I couldn't decide what to have for dinner, so I had a bit of a lot of stuff.... I had a big bowl of zucchini, and then I toasted an everything Bagel Thin. I topped one half with refried beans and a 1/2 srvg of mexican cheese and broiled it to make my mexican "brown" pizza. Then I topped the other half with 1 Tb. of garlic hummus and 1 Tb. of tabouli salad! Spicy and mediterranean and so yummy! The mexican pizza half was hot and the hummus have was cool... interesting contrast! Loved them both.

That sounds soooo good. It actually made me hungry And then you go on to pumpkin muffins.... even more hungry now. Actually we got a heat wave this weekend. Supposedly in the 90's

So, as a result, I've been slow in catching up and honestly had to skim quite a bit b/c I was overwhelmed with how far behind I was on the boards here, but I am back.

Wow thats a lot handle. Dont worry about catching up. Glad youre back. Sorry to hear about the sinus infections. Hope you get better soon!

I am so envious of you. Have a great trip

Thanks!! Im so excited about it. I havent had a vacation at all this year and I definitley need some "relaxing" time to recharge.

We're heading to the Big E tomorrow. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from here so we'll be leaving early and return very late. I haven't been in so many years. Hopefully it will be fun for all ages.

Have a good and safe trip!

Last year, I made a really smart change to my Cheddar Vegetable Pot Pie individual pot pies with just a small circle of crust on top. The filling is pretty points friendly in the first place. I've been using 2% cheese all along. It was a huge success, though not as gorgeous as making a HUGE double-layer pot pie. Oh well. My mushroom gravy is also actually really points friendly, for gravy.

That sounds really yummy, especially with the cooler temps coming up. Do you mind sharing the recipe?

Have a good weekend everyone!

 

[CptJackSparrowsGirl]

Welcome back, Kailey!!! I'm sorry about the news from the doctor - It's not fun hearing you've got Type 2, but hopefully the diagnosis is first step to reclaiming your health and feeling better. I'm glad to see you back here again!

Thanks I hope to stick around and get it achieved this time

 

[flipflopmom]

quick post- I saw round trip airfare to orlando was cheap from lax ($160!!!!!) so I had to book. I called my bf and told him youre not saying no, we are going to disneyworld. so im leaving to wdw in two weeks oct 4-7. my first food and wine festival. lots of work to do between now and then. I will be working 24/7 so that everything is taken care of before I leave letting me relax on my vacation. Just dont know when I will have time to plan my trip, e.g. dining.

How very,very, very exciting!!!!! Rose is running the F&W, she'll be down there then! Have FUN!

So, Paul and I decided to pull up the carpet and throw it out, pull off the baseboards, dry things out and then use the $500 we would have spent for the deductible toward new carpeting b/c I am not to sure of the "dry out the carpet" plan - I feel it will take long to dry and it will get mildewy

Sounds like a good plan! I agree, that carpet would probably never be the same! More work for you, but a much better option in the end!

Glad you were able to relax and change your plans when the kids were going nutty. You're right... it probably wasn't worth the fight. It would have aggravated all of you and probably accomplished nothing. In fact, I couldn't decide what to have for dinner, so I had a bit of a lot of stuff.... I had a big bowl of zucchini, and then I toasted an everything Bagel Thin.

What is a Bagel Thin? I mean, the answer is obvious, I guess. Is it frozen, or with the reg. breads? I don't think I've ever seen one. How that your DD has a boyfriend now! I love that it was too hot to snuggle up to get warm. It's been hot here all along. I think by next weekend we're supposed to be in the upper 70's, but we've had 90's all along! I'm sure if you are making them, the pumpkin muffins must be fairly healthy. Have you shared the recipe? I love the taste of pumpkin!!!!

Well it's been a really long and bad week. My DS seems to have recovered, but I ended up with a sinus infection as well. We made an appt. with an Ear Nose and Throat specialist for my DS for the end of October. He constantly has a runny nose and has had a good 3 or 4 sinus infections and he's only 14 months old. Then (speaking of not putting myself first) I was at the doctors for my own sinus infection when she told me that I should be seeing an ENT specialist as well since I've had 3 or 4 sinus infections since he was born too. I also started snoring when I got pregnant and haven't stopped and started having allergies this year too. So, maybe she's right.

So sorry you've had the cruds! Just throwing this out there. A friend was told by an ENT that most sinus infections take 2 10 day cycles of antibiotics to completely clear up, and that to truly diagnose one, an x-ray of the sinuses is needed. It could be that you aren't completely getting rid of it, and then it just keeps building until it gets bad. If your rest is compromised, it is a lot easier to catch what they bring home. Plus, I think it's easier to get stuff from our little ones b/c we aren't as diligent about hand washing after taking care of them. They can't wipe their noses, we constantly are, and stopping to wash our hands every few minutes is hard. I've been very lucky, my girls rarely get sick.

Okay all you moms or anyone good with kids - How do I get my son to sleep in his crib again? He had a good few nights (5 or 6 actually) where I was shocked b/c I had to wake him in the morning for daycare. Trouble is, I'm sick and fighting with him isn't helping me get the sleep I need and if we let him cry too much, he makes himself puke and I honestly don't want to be cleaning puke at 1 AM when I'm sick and tired myself.

I am NOT the person to give advice on this one, I'll just send you a hug! Letting a child cry like that is hard, especially when you feel bad. Hopefully you'll feel better in a few days and be able to handle it better!

We're heading to the Big E tomorrow. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from here so we'll be leaving early and return very late. I haven't been in so many years. Hopefully it will be fun for all ages.

Sounds like a fun family day! Enjoy!

I appreciate that we're allowed to stick around after we reach our goals, as it's more like being in recovery or remission than a full fledged cure. Also, sometimes on boards like this, people will refer to "the OP" as well, usually when answering a question posed at the start of a new thread. In that case, OP stands for Original Poster.
I don't usually like to game the scale like that. Next week, I hope to be able to weigh in wearing pants. razy times, but I'm glad to be at a place where I can just go and try on formal wear without too much distress.

I love it, maintainers are in recovery... Can you imagine this group using OP for original poster? I guess that would be Lisa. on the "game the scale" terminology. FWIW, I've always found formal wear to be 2 sizes bigger than street clothes....

Hey oh, I'm back to trying to lose weight after some medical issues. I found out through it that one of the things I have is Type 2 Diabetes so it is a good idea that I lose the weight for my health.

Kailey, so glad you made it back! Post often, stick around. There have been several people on the challenges that have been able to come off the need for insulin, etc. by making dietary changes and losing weight. I am POSITIVE that you can take control!

Just got out of work a little while ago. I did 12 hours today because I want to make sure I have nothing pending while Im in WDW. I will definitely be busy until I leave. Im so excited about this trip. I will now dub it my reward for my weight loss. Im glad you had a good time! AK's story is so cute. Tell her not to grow up too fast

That's a great reward! I never reward myself, for anything. We have a trip to Disney's Hilton Head Island resort planned for New Year's Eve, I would LOVE to head to that trip at my goal, 70+ pounds lighter than when I was there last year! I don't want her to grow up too fast at ALL!! I did laugh at the fair, they had this "drop zone" type of ride. Everyone was freaking out about it, and I told her "it's so tame compared to ToT, only one drop, and about 1/3 as high, if that". That strengthened her resolve, and afterwards she said "Sheez mom, you were right, that was nothing." The look on her face during the drop, however.... She's so much more reserved when it comes to stuff like that. Sophie will do anything. I told Brad that I am glad their roles are like that, having an overly cautious big sister made it easier to let the 2 of them ride the ferris wheel together without us. AK was so scared Sophie would stand up, fall, etc. that she had a death grip on her body the whole time!!!!

We are heading to ryans school for a PTA family fun night dance. It should be interesting to see what its like. I am such an outgoing person but I get so nervous going to new things like this. I dont know what I am afraid of. I guess the fear of not knowing anyone other than my dh and kids is anxiety for me. I hope its fun.

I hope you had a great time. I can tend to hang back in a crowd of new people, but I jumped right in w/ our new tailgate crew. I think weight loss gave me a bit more confidence in that area. Unfortunately, Brad says I come off as a total snob when my confidence is low and I don't jump in.

Morning all! CRAZY busy day ahead. DH decided last night that he would rather have AK's birthday dinner tonight, instead of for lunch tomorrow, since he would have to go to bed. Which means, I have to have the house clean by 5! I have a huge list of things to do before then, and VT plays at noon, so the house shuts down for a few hours then. At least I can be busy during commercials! Hoping to head out for a run in a bit, too!

I got my homework week done. This upcoming week's assignment looks huge, too. Next weekend is Brad's 20th class reunion, gosh he's old, so lots of festivities. I'm not really sure when I'll get the next assignment done, I might try to start on it tomorrow at some point. Reunion will be all weekend - Family tailgating at the H.S. homecoming game, potluck family lunch Saturday, and then dinner Saturday night!!!!!! Tailgating will be okay, I'll take something I can eat. Lunch, same thing. I don't eat stuff that I don't know who cooked it. Dinner, we'll see. I want to have a BLOWOUT week, so I can go into this with a good mindset.

Making lists helps me so much. The sense of accomplishment in marking stuff off is a motivator for me. So I list each step. Not just clean den, but dust, clean glass, declutter, vaccuum, clean computer desk, etc!

I'll try to check in off and on today. I'm feeling good, motivated, etc. Got all of the HH points for yesterday, so I'm off to a good start! That's my goal for the week, mostly entering into Spark all my foods. Last night, I challenged AK to a push up challenge, she challenged me to a sit up challenge. She got discouraged when I won both! Her strength really needs to improve, so we might make this a nightly thing. As long as she doesn't challenge me to a pull up challenge - she can do like 11, and I can barely bend my arms!!!

Off to start decluttering and stop rambling!
HAPPY SATURDAY!!!!!
Taryn

 

[my3princes]

I'm not looking forward to weighing in tomorrow. Between the camping trip which included my birthday (cheesecake) and the stress I've had this week, I don't think it will show a loss, I'm hoping for only a small gain. TOM came, 5 days late and I was told by a temp agency that I was "unemployable" becasue I have a 7 years "gap" in my work history. Now mind you I worked at the restaurant all 7 of those years that I was a SAHM, but because it was not in the field of work that I have my degree in, I guess it doesn't count. What is wrong with this world that we live in? Why do we penalize Mother's for choosing to stay home with their kids.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

quick post- I saw round trip airfare to orlando was cheap from lax ($160!!!!!) so I had to book. I called my bf and told him youre not saying no, we are going to disneyworld. so im leaving to wdw in two weeks oct 4-7. my first food and wine festival. lots of work to do between now and then. I will be working 24/7 so that everything is taken care of before I leave letting me relax on my vacation. Just dont know when I will have time to plan my trip, e.g. dining.

See you ladies later tonight!

How exciting. spur of the moment trips are so much fun!

Anyone else having a fall heatwave? It was 80° in my house at 6:30 pm when I got home from the grocery store! I hadn't left any windows open because it did look like rain. Still nearly 80° out!

the past few days here its been mid 80's and yesterday was 89. today is low 80's tomorrow 70 and by next weekend it says 61. No wonder my sinuses are horrible right now. Mother nature cant make up her mind if its summer or fall yet

Advice Needed

Ok I am speaking from a mom who has done this times 2 and I also gave phone advice to parents on this subject for 14 years (I work in a pediatricians office and I say gave because now Im the manager and no longer answer the calls). Ok so basically the only real way to get over this is to let him cry it out.

After 5 min go in..keep it low key...no lights no talking etc. lay him back down cover him etc. quietly say time to sleep and walk out.

Repeat this step in lengthening intervals. wait 5, then next time wait 10, next time wait 15, etc.

If he vomits go in to clean up. Try to use minimal lighting. let him in his crib until you need to remove him to clean the sheet or his pj's etc. Just remember no eye contact conversation etc. act like he is really not there. No matter how loud he screams.

He has learned that if he keeps on screaming or vomits you will take him into your bed which is his comfort zone. You have to break this sequence and after a number of nights he will finally give up as long as you dont. It could take anywhere from 3 nights to 3 weeks. Typically 1 week is average. Start it on a weekend when you dont have to get up early the next day.

I did this with both of my kids. DS1 had ear infections as a baby so he was a horrible sleeper and i often would bring him into bed so I could sleep since I worked the next day. After he turned one I made a pact with my dh to try this and after about a week he was a great sleeper and has been ever since.

Similar situation with DS2. He was better after 4 nights. We actually had to do this with him mulitple times....maybe because I just started younger so he had more illnessess.

The other key thing is to make sure he is falling asleep on his own. Dont rock him or hold him until he falls asleep otherwise when he wakes up he will freak because you are not there. Kids need to learn the self soothing technique.

Hope this helps. Im sure its not what you want to hear but it will work if you commit to it.

I'm feeling good, motivated, etc.

Im so glad your feeling better today. It sounds like a fun weekend for you. I hope you get your list checked off and have a great time doing it.


The PTA dance last night was interesting. Most of the kids had a blast. Ryan was a wall flower. He was so darn nervous. Only one girl was there from his class and he acted like he didnt know her. She came over to him and was like "Ryan why are you being shy to me your not shy to me at school" She wanted him to dance but he said no. I kept encouraging him to go out and dance with the kids and I guess I said cmon if you go out and have a good time and then we can get a snack to take him and it will be fun. Apparently he took it as if he doesnt go out and dance he couldnt pick a snack. I didnt realize the pressure I had put on him. He was standing there all tense and said he would go out during the next song. then he ran out on the floor and almost got run into by an older kid, and was looking around like he didnt know what to do. He came running back over in tears and was honestly shaking. OMG it broke my heart. He said he really tried but didnt know who to dance with, and that he was upset I wouldnt get him a snack. So needless to say we got them snacks and went home.

Not what I expected. but I guess as a kindergartner it was too overwhelming. I feel like I got the bad mother of the year award.

Today I am doing some major cleaning and then we have my cousin's daughters 3rd bday party at their house. I am going to plan to only eat the points i have available. I will keep it light for bfast and lunch so I have plenty for dinner left.

The kids are sleeping at my parents tonight. I have the tunnel to towers 5K in NYC tomorrow and we are leaving at 430am. My dh plays softball on a sunday morning so my parents are helping out.

I will try to check in with everyone later. I hope you all are having a fun weekend.

 

[donac]

Good morning. I went to bed early last night so I never read all the posts since then.

I only have one minute to post. I have to pick a friend to go sew for the day.

Saturday Question of the Day

Really 2 questions

1. Which classic Disney movie to love to watch over and over again. I mean from before 1970

2. Which more recent movie to do you enjoy watching.

It could be live action or animation

Have a great day. I will be on later when I get home from pillowcases.

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

I read a lot of great weigh in posts yesterday. We are rocking away here!

Happy 40th birthday to Redwalker!

Please be sure and PM those weights, HH points and WIN! inches if you haven't done so already. And a big BL thank you to our weightkeeper, LuvBaloo, our Healthy Habits coach, jenanderson, and our WIN! coach, Connie96 for keeping track of all of us. It is a big job!

Yunchman, thanks for coming out of lurkdom! You're welcome to chat or officially join. We are very flexible that way!

Taryn, get lot of rest this week-end. It sounds like you are starting to feel like yourself again.

Bree, enjoy your week-end!

Same for you, Deb!

pjlla We have 2 Thanksgiving also. On tday we do dh's family. On another day in the weekend we usually see my family. My mom's birthday is the 27th of Nov so her birthday is that weekend. A couple of years ago her birthday was on Thanksgiving. My sisters and I cooked the dinner but we first went to a hotel nearby. My mom had rented some rooms so that we could use the indoor pool. My mom wanted a pool party for her birthday. All the kids and the grandkids had a great time in the pool. My mom had gotten everyone water guns and we had a ball. There was no one else in the pool so it our own private party. It was a very memorable birthday.

brinalyn530 I can top Boston Market. Dsil had us all over for Thanksgiving but first we had to rake the leaves. when we were done she then went out to KFC and we had that in her fancy cherry wood dinning room.

Dona, I can see why someone with a birthday in November would have always wanted a pool party. So glad your Mom got one!

And your SIL takes the prize for poor Thanksgiving hostess.

Lindsay, a busy week and a loss, too!

Cupcaker, on a last minute trip! Put a plan in place to get yourself right back on track when you return so no matter what happens on vacation you are ready to get back on that wagon!

Flood update -
2nd quote was what the insurance company wanted - they would peel back the carpet, pull up the padding, after the carpet was dried they would re-install - as for the walls, they said they would pull up the baseboards and put some blowers down there to dry things out -
All that for over $1000 - and I have a $500 deductible -
So, Paul and I decided to pull up the carpet and throw it out, pull off the baseboards, dry things out and then use the $500 we would have spent for the deductible toward new carpeting b/c I am not to sure of the "dry out the carpet" plan - I feel it will take long to dry and it will get mildewy -
So much for insurance - I don't think new carpet will cost too very much - the room isn't huge -

Sometimes it is best to take care of the smaller losses yourself. Insurance one of those things we all need but hope to never use. Glad it wasn't too bad!

pjlla, enjoy your busy Saturday!

Now, I know I had been forewarned many times about how my son would pick up everything at daycare, but no one ever warned me that I'd get sick all the time too

Sorry! While their immune systems get stronger, so do yours. It does get better as they get older. DS had two sets of ear tubes, pneumonia requiring hospitalization, his own nebulizer, and a tonsillectomy all before he was done with kindergarten. He is a very healthy 11 year old now.

On your sleeping issue, all I can say is everything is harder and takes twice as long as you think it should -- sleeping issues, weaning, potty training. But eventually it all works out! Hang in there. It is hard to deal with stuff when you are tired and sick, too.

We're heading to the Big E tomorrow. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from here so we'll be leaving early and return very late. I haven't been in so many years. Hopefully it will be fun for all ages.

Enjoy your day!

I'm always glad to share - I hope it wasn't TOO much on an already busy thread. :

Of course not! Our thread is never too busy to hear words of wisdom!

Hey oh, I'm back to trying to lose weight after some medical issues.
I found out through it that one of the things I have is Type 2 Diabetes so it is a good idea that I lose the weight for my health.

Kailey! about the Type 2 Diabetes. I'm glad they figured out what was going on so you could take care of yourself.

What is a Bagel Thin? I mean, the answer is obvious, I guess. Is it frozen, or with the reg. breads?

Taryn, the Bagel Thins that we have are in the bread section -- with the english muffins and bagels. I like the Thomas brand. They are similar to the Arnold's Sandwich Thins -- they have 100 calories (or so). You can use them for breakfast and sandwiches and things.

I'm not looking forward to weighing in tomorrow. Between the camping trip which included my birthday (cheesecake) and the stress I've had this week, I don't think it will show a loss, I'm hoping for only a small gain. TOM came, 5 days late and I was told by a temp agency that I was "unemployable" becasue I have a 7 years "gap" in my work history. Now mind you I worked at the restaurant all 7 of those years that I was a SAHM, but because it was not in the field of work that I have my degree in, I guess it doesn't count. What is wrong with this world that we live in? Why do we penalize Mother's for choosing to stay home with their kids.

Bah! I would try another temporary agency or another representative there. A good HR person should be able to spin your more recent experience -- a waitress knows alot about prioritizing, meeting deadlines, dealing with difficult situations -- in a way that relates to the job area that you are trying to get in now. Add in the Mom being like the CEO of the household and budgeting and you have a gain in important skills that employers need -- not seven years off! As an employer I would prefer someone who has job experience, even in another field, over a newbie with only a degree any day, because they know what it is like to work with other people and get things done.

I have the weigh in for my BL challenge today and then we are seeing Cirque du Soleil in Spokane. See you all tomorrow!

 

[jbm02]

Popping in before heading out to DS's JV football game this morning. I was not here last night because I was at my 20th law school reunion. It ws the first time I had been back since 1990 and surprise! everyone pretty much looked the same. All but one or two were pretty much instantly recognizable (although I shoul have reviewed my yearbook before going!! LOL). Fun night and other than one small glass of wine, I didn't go nuts with the appetizers!! Yay!!

Saturday Question of the Day

Really 2 questions

1. Which classic Disney movie to love to watch over and over again. I mean from before 1970

2. Which more recent movie to do you enjoy watching.

1. Cinderella or Sleeping Beauty (DH: Fantasia)
2. Just about any of them! On Friday "movie nights" our top choices include: any of the Toy Story series, Beauty and the Beast, Nemo, Cars

..OT but just saw an ad that "Nim's Island" is on tomorrow night at 7:30PM. DD and I loved that movie!! We're going to set the DVR...

Have to run. Have a great day everyone!!
Jude

 

[flipflopmom]

What is wrong with this world that we live in? Why do we penalize Mother's for choosing to stay home with their kids.

That is sooo awful! I am so sorry! I guess all the people wanting jobs right now has made it soo tough. Keep looking, there's something out there for you!

Ryan was a wall flower. He was so darn nervous. He was standing there all tense and said he would go out during the next song. then he ran out on the floor and almost got run into by an older kid, and was looking around like he didnt know what to do..

What ages were there? A lot of my kids are intimidated by the older kids, especially if they are the oldest child in their house. Talk to him today, maybe do some role playing about what to do in those situations. If you talk calmly about the situation, find out what he's thinking, it will keep him from building it up in his mind to be worse than it was, and he'll be more accepting next time. YOU ARE NOT THE WORST MOTHER!!!! Let's knock this cleaning out! I am done with this mess!

Well, I am happy to report that I finally ran again! I did not fully realize that it had been 2 weeks until I started running. I wanted to go for 5, but decided to stick with 4 after my hiatus. Man, oh man, did it hurt so good. I feel so much more empowered.

Also weighed this am. I am bad about forgetting now that I have to take Beamer out so early. At 4:30, all I can think about is coffee. By the time I remember, I've had about 8-16 oz of the mind and body altering stuff and don't want to step on the scale. Can I get a for a 4lb loss this week? And that's since Sunday! I got rid of 3 pounds I gained last week, plus one! The tummy bug Tues. probably helped, but it is what I needed to kick start me back into losing mode! 10 POUNDS TO GOAL, BABY! 2 pounds to 65 clippie. I'd love to get that off this week, so if someone asks me at Brad's reunion I can say 65!

Yesterday's QOTD: For the holidays, Thanksgiving is traditional, and in my family, we don't mess w/ tradition. Although, since my brother was diagnosed as diabetic, we do have lower carb meals a lot. I will not eat as many mashed potatoes, but that's about the only time I do. I will stick for smaller portions, but not having them and pumpkin pie would be like Christmas with no stocking!

Really going this time! HAPPY SATURDAY!
Taryn

 

[tigger813]

Good morning!

Chinese food was great last night! I only had one drink last night followed by 2 large glasses of water!

Got up at 6:30 and did my elliptical 5K and then made breakfast for everyone. I need to clean up the kitchen and get ready for soccer games and the two parties. Redwalker's b'day is actually Oct. 1. The party is a joint one for her and her husband who turned the big 40 in June. It's going to be a great day for the party!

Just had my strawberry Greek yogurt smoothie so hopefully that will hold me over for several hours. I really need to watch what I eat today. Going to stop on the way home from soccer to get the girls some lunch and a snack for DH and me.

Gotta go pack and clean the kitchen so I had better get going! Time to shower too!!!!!

 

[dvccruiser76]

We're heading to the Big E tomorrow. It's about a 2 1/2 hour drive from here so we'll be leaving early and return very late. I haven't been in so many years. Hopefully it will be fun for all ages.

Enjoy the Big E! We went last weekend and it was nice and spacious, not too crowded during the day. It looks like today will be nice weather like last Saturday too.

Hey oh, I'm back to trying to lose weight after some medical issues.
I found out through it that one of the things I have is Type 2 Diabetes so it is a good idea that I lose the weight for my health.

Oh no, sorry to hear that I had justational diabetes when I was pregnant and it was terrible, I hate needles so needless to say pricking my finger was not easy to do 3 times a day.

So sorry you've had the cruds! Just throwing this out there. A friend was told by an ENT that most sinus infections take 2 10 day cycles of antibiotics to completely clear up, and that to truly diagnose one, an x-ray of the sinuses is needed. It could be that you aren't completely getting rid of it, and then it just keeps building until it gets bad. If your rest is compromised, it is a lot easier to catch what they bring home. Plus, I think it's easier to get stuff from our little ones b/c we aren't as diligent about hand washing after taking care of them. They can't wipe their noses, we constantly are, and stopping to wash our hands every few minutes is hard. I've been very lucky, my girls rarely get sick.

We have a trip to Disney's Hilton Head Island resort planned for New Year's Eve

Thanks for that info, I did not realize that. I'm guessing that was my problem last year. I had a double ear infection and was on meds twice. Finally they gave me biaxin which is pretty tough stuff and it did the trick.

Have you been to HHI before? We went in May and had an excellent meal there if you need advice. The one that I loved was more of a date night place but they have more kid friendly seating outside if you need it. Let me know if you need suggestions.

Ok I am speaking from a mom who has done this times 2 and I also gave phone advice to parents on this subject for 14 years (I work in a pediatricians office and I say gave because now Im the manager and no longer answer the calls). Ok so basically the only real way to get over this is to let him cry it out.


The PTA dance last night was interesting. Most of the kids had a blast. Ryan was a wall flower. He was so darn nervous. Only one girl was there from his class and he acted like he didnt know her. She came over to him and was like "Ryan why are you being shy to me your not shy to me at school" She wanted him to dance but he said no. I kept encouraging him to go out and dance with the kids and I guess I said cmon if you go out and have a good time and then we can get a snack to take him and it will be fun. Apparently he took it as if he doesnt go out and dance he couldnt pick a snack. I didnt realize the pressure I had put on him. He was standing there all tense and said he would go out during the next song. then he ran out on the floor and almost got run into by an older kid, and was looking around like he didnt know what to do. He came running back over in tears and was honestly shaking. OMG it broke my heart. He said he really tried but didnt know who to dance with, and that he was upset I wouldnt get him a snack. So needless to say we got them snacks and went home.

Thanks for the advice, I think that's what we're going to try. He did a little better last night, but it may also have to do with the fact that we only let him nap for an hour and 15 minutes yesterday. Some days they let him sleep for 2 1/2 hours at daycare. I wonder if that's part of the problem.

How old is your son that went to the dance? You almost have to feel for him, too cute at that age.

Good luck tomorrow in NYC

 

[mikamah]

Good morning and Happy Weekend!!

I'm all caught up on reading the thread. Lots of great numbers this week!!! Whoo hoo and congrats to all our losers!!

Other than to throw at shoe at you for making me cry at school, AGAIN! I've had to tell the kids too many times in the last week or two - Allergies, something in my eye, etc. I didn't comment on this yesterday. Something I learned in the last year, that once it's all said and done, all we have are the memories. I am so thankful that I have lots of happy ones from growing up, and it saddens me soooo deeply to hear about the memories some of my friends here have from childhood. I needed to remember that my kids will remember snippets, it will be selective. What do I want them to remember? Crazy, depressed mommy, always anal about everything, or mommy that loved them, taught them good habits, and was there for them? Yes, teaching my kids good habits (like cleaning their fingernails) exercise, healthy eating, responsibility, money management, keeping the house somewhat livable is a part of being a mom. So its' okay for them to know "we don't have the money for that right now" and "this has to be done before bed" "this is not healthy for you, you may not have it". It's my attitude in how I present that that will make all the difference.

This is so well said, Taryn. I know that I remember the great times growing up, I don't remember the times my mom had meltdowns and screamed at me as a kid, but I'm sure she did just like I do. I remember the times we spent together as a family, the cookouts, just hanging out in the yard. We didn't take many trips with 5 kids, but I remember all of them and how much fun it was to get away and just be together. I'm pretty sure our kids will remember us as the loving parents we are, and the good times. I know I shared this before when Michael was little and we had a horrific day, I thought I'd try and talk about it and talk about how we change our behavior, etc, and when I asked him how he thought today was, he said, "it was great, mommy." I realized then, that even though I might not feel like the best mom all the time, I'm doing the best I can, and always trying, and he is going to be ok.

I was thinking about the qotd for the holidays, and started to get a little sad about the holidays without my mom and how things have changed, and didn't feel like posting, so I continued reading, and laughed out loud at this.

mikamah Never buy halloween candy until Oct 31st.

Thanks dona!! I will never, never do that again.

pjlla We have 2 Thanksgiving also. On tday we do dh's family. On another day in the weekend we usually see my family. My mom's birthday is the 27th of Nov so her birthday is that weekend. A couple of years ago her birthday was on Thanksgiving. My sisters and I cooked the dinner but we first went to a hotel nearby. My mom had rented some rooms so that we could use the indoor pool. My mom wanted a pool party for her birthday. All the kids and the grandkids had a great time in the pool. My mom had gotten everyone water guns and we had a ball. There was no one else in the pool so it our own private party. It was a very memorable birthday.

brinalyn530 I can top Boston Market. Dsil had us all over for Thanksgiving but first we had to rake the leaves. when we were done she then went out to KFC and we had that in her fancy cherry wood dinning room.

Dona, your mom's birthday sounds like it was so much fun and how special for her to create those wonderful memories for everyone.

Rub it in, why don't ya! Enjoy!

Ya, here I am sitting here in my relatively clean house, enjoying my dis time, but there's still not enough time to catch up fully. Off to gymnastics in 10 min.

I think it's safe to say that all of us are less worried about pounds than overall health. It is well known that people can be very healthy and not have a normal BMI. I gained about 10 pounds during BL 9 and 7 more during the summer challenge. We are definitely not going to kick you out. I may be about 15 pounds heavier than I was in Jan., but health is relative. I want to go to the gym. I want to journal what I am eating. I am happy. Yes, it would be have been nice if I was 5 pounds less for my sister's wedding, but my parents would rather have pictures of me smiling than being skinny and upset.
CC

Thanks for sharing this cc. I know for me, even though I've gained through come challenges, if I wasn't coming here and getting the support, I would have gained so much more. It is a lifelong challenge, and we are going to reach our weight goals, no matter how long it takes. And we're going to have lots of fun along the way. It is the journey.

I'm guessing pjlla will come by and mention that some protein at breakfast would be a good idea.

I chuckled at this too. Love to read all suggestions Pjlla has to share. Actually pamela, Michael loved the chicken corn chowder at chef mickeys and if you have a healthy recipe to share, I'd love to hear it. I'll check the recipe thread first.

I'm feeling a little guilty because I haven't been able to get on here and post. Mom's in the hospital so I'm running around like a maniac taking care of her, her house, working full time, kids activities, etc. (You all know the drill! LOL).

It can be so stressful. Hope you mom is doing ok, and that you are able to take good care of yourself too. Hang in there.

I'm still down 2.5 for a total of 8 pounds lost this challenge and more than 3 inches gone in WIN! The Biggest Loser challenge at the gym starts tomorrow so it should be a good week next week. It will be interesting to meet the other folks. One of my neighbors is doing it but she is not on my team. I'm on the green team -- go green!

Whoo hoo. you go girl!! I was up half an inch in my mesurements, but I think it's measurer error. Down .2, better than up, and I know why it's not more.

Got to run. I"ll catch up more later.

 

[jenanderson]

I would love to reply to a lot of the posts but I am super short on time so I am just going to fly by and post a quick hello!

I ran 7 miles this morning and now we are getting ready to go to the cabin. We are just going to pull our boat our for winterizing and pack up some extra items. We will have to go back up north the next weekend to finish everything. So this means driving 3 hours today, working hard and then driving home early tomorrow.

We are coming home early because we have so much going on that we need to get ready for the week.

I have a 7:30 AM interview for a long term subbing position Monday morning. It would mean 6 weeks at one school in the same classroom at teacher contract pay. I really need to get this position. Not only for the money but just mentally. I have been surprised at how hard it has been for me mentally to not have a job.

Well, this is all I have time for and I am sorry for that. I am reading and following along. I wish I had more time to post but right now that just can't happen every day.

Happy Healthy Weekend to you all!
Jen

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Friday's Question of the Day My question for you is: As we get closer to the holidays do you think your family will accept new recipes that will help you keep on track?

Oddly enough, I am usually the one who wants the "junky" holiday treats My dh does love my fudge, and my ds likes cookies, but other than that, no one is really excited about the big holiday meals. This year for Thanksgiving, we've already decided to do something different, which will keep me a little closer to track. Since the Pats are playing on Thanksgiving Day, we're treating it more like a SuperBowl and less like Thanksgiving. We're going to have chili in the crockpot, and nibblies to go with it. That means cooked shrimp, veggies and dip, nachos, and brownies rather than pie. Maybe we'll have a nod to the holiday and add stuffed mushrooms, those are my favorite part of our traditional Thanksgiving meal. Last year I had a whopper for Thanksgiving Dinner (ds's choice on his "reward" bonus trip to Universal), so this will be a great improvement! I'm also considering running a 5K in the morning, which won't hurt!

Is this the same cookie that I've read about from the Writer's Stop in Disney's Hollywood Studios?

Not sure, I haven't been in DHS in a very long time, we just aren't overly fond of it...

Last year, I made a really smart change to my Cheddar Vegetable Pot Pie individual pot pies with just a small circle of crust on top. The filling is pretty points friendly in the first place. I've been using 2% cheese all along. It was a huge success, though not as gorgeous as making a HUGE double-layer pot pie. Oh well. My mushroom gravy is also actually really points friendly, for gravy.

You can't possibly post that without a recipe -- Cheddar Vegetable Pot Pie sounds like something we need to put in our rotation!

Saturday Question of the Day

Really 2 questions

1. Which classic Disney movie to love to watch over and over again. I mean from before 1970

2. Which more recent movie to do you enjoy watching.

1. I don't think there is one from that ever I love to watch over and over again...maybe Flubber? I'm not sure what year that was? Okay, I just looked it up. It's really called "The Absentminded Professor", and it's 1961.

2. I could watch "Beauty and the Beast" over and over, I just love that movie!

Thanks to Cam for being a fabulous coach, and thanks to Dona for guiding us this week!

I just realized I forgot to measure, so I'll be doing that tomorrow morning. I also have to round up my HH points, I put it on the list for this afternoon.

Yesterday I ran 3M in the morning, cut short because I needed to take dh to work, and 4 wasn't going to work. I felt a bit guilty, and when I got home I did 2M more. This sounds good, but it was clearly a mistake. I hit 6M today and it started to feel really hard. I made myself stick it out for 10M, but lesson learned -- do what I can Friday and stop, no going back for more. I also ate really well yesterday, and I have a good plan through lunch today. Not sure what dinner will bring, but I'm determined to not have "Monday Morning Regret", which is a weekly occurrence.

JenAnderson -- Best of luck with your interview, I know you will ace it!

Taryn and Dona -- Great advice about the Halloween candy -- it is a slippery slope "just one little candy bar, piece, etc." can so quickly add up to half the food you should eat for the day, and you won't feel satisfied at all...I do buy it before Oct. 31, but I put it in the basement kitchen, where I would have to make a conscious decision to go eat it. I refuse to hover in a corner of the basement shamefully stuffing myself with candy bars, so I just don't go there. I would be too embarrassed for my family to see me chowing down on them, so that tells me right there I need to leave it alone.

Lisa -- Which Cirque show are you seeing? My dh and ds went to "Ova" in August and really enjoyed it.

Kailey -- One of the benefits many of the BL contestants enjoy is that lots of them are able to manage or even reverse their Type 2 Diabetes. I hope you are able to work hard on your diet and exercise and see yourself get healthier!

Ok, I have to feed ds lunch and get going on my day. By the time I do 10M and recover, it seems like half the day is gone. I guess that wouldn't happen if I'd drag myself out of bed earlier, but I consider sleeping in on Saturday to be a perk I'm not giving up unless I have to!

Maria

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

I have the weigh in for my BL challenge today and then we are seeing Cirque du Soleil in Spokane. See you all tomorrow!

Good luck at your weigh in lisa. Have a great time tonight.

What ages were there? A lot of my kids are intimidated by the older kids, especially if they are the oldest child in their house. Talk to him today, maybe do some role playing about what to do in those situations. If you talk calmly about the situation, find out what he's thinking, it will keep him from building it up in his mind to be worse than it was, and he'll be more accepting next time. YOU ARE NOT THE WORST MOTHER!!!! Let's knock this cleaning out! I am done with this mess!

The kids were mostly 2nd grade- 5th grade. There was only 1 or 2 of the kindergartners so I think it had a big part in it. I know if the few kids he talks about from school were there Im sure it would have been different. Thanks for making me feel better and for the advice. I need to go clean now since 10 other things ended up happening this morning and cleaning was not one of them.

How old is your son that went to the dance? You almost have to feel for him, too cute at that age.

Good luck tomorrow in NYC

My son is 5 (will be 6 on nov 9). and thanks for the well wishes for tomorrow.

I really need to get this position. Not only for the money but just mentally.

Jen I am sending my prayers in for you. Good luck I really hope you get this one. You deserve it.

QOTD- Friday

Traditions are Traditions in my family. You cant change a thing but I can change what I choose to eat and how much of it I eat.

QOTD- Sat.

I love Cinderella. My favorite!!!!

My favorite of the newer movies has been the Toy Story's. I still have not seen TS3. Yes I know its killing me too. I am hoping to get it for Ryan for his bday which is 11/9. Then we can have a TS3 pizza party family night to watch it.

 

[Dreamer24]

Susan – Thanks for the perspective!

Michele, I’m sorry you are dealing with a flood!

Pam – I hope your weigh in this morning was better! I’m glad you found an alternative to the pumpkin muffins. I’ve found ways to make less-bad-for-you blueberry scones, using whole wheat flour was the main change but I haven’t tried muffins yet.

DVCcruiser – I do not have kids so I don’t have any advice but I wanted to wish you luck and support.


Friday QOTD – Thanksgiving will be here, with mostly my in-laws and also my mom as my sisters are at their in-laws this year. I can make whatever I would like and ask people to bring healthier options along with the traditional ones.

Saturday QOTD – I love peter pan, Cinderella and sleeping beauty. More recently, Alladin is my favorite.

Jen – 7 miles is awesome! Good luck with your interview.

Today has been pretty good, I think. For breakfast I had a bowl of cereal, hard boiled egg whites and a banana. With that, I had a glass of water (16 oz) and my coffee drink which includes a cup of skim milk. I wasn’t able to have a snack because I was teaching. For lunch I had ½ baked potato with cheddar and a slice of bacon and a little sour cream, strawberries and my yogurt is in the freezer so I will try that before going to t he gym.