Biggest Loser 11 Spring Team Challenge--for Losers and Maintainers

[lisah0711]

I am not going to stress eat. I am not going to stress eat. I am not going to stress eat.

There are a lot of things I have no control over right now, but I can control what I put in my mouth!

Did you see this article from Sparkpeople this week about emotional eating? Their suggestions were a lot like yours yesterday -- stall, distract or substitute. Here is the link http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=693

Is it a nice day today? Maybe you can take a walk.

Okay..... so it is lunch time. What have I accomplished since I was here last you ask? Not much!! Not sure what my problem is today!

Might be related to your brain already being on vacation!

I have a suggestion for our clippie for our summer challenge. This is the summer challenge clippie that we have used in the past created by corinnak. This is last years version but if we decide to recycle she will edit it so there is no year in the small star. That way we can keep on using it. I really like this one -- it even looks good on the iPhone!

 

[dvccruiser76]

Fro the next challenge I have a few goals. I need to food journal like a mad woman!! I also decided to buy star stickers...for each day I do at least 45minutes of exercise I will put a star on my kitchen calendar. I am also moving my skirt (you know the one I bought but can not fit into in public) to the kitchen. Whenever I want to put something in my mouth I will see the skirt...

*******
It's Wednesday...otherwise known as Hump Day. I've been struggling to get over the hump! It was so beautiful last night for my walk (skipped spin to hit the sidewalk). My time is not improving so I am a bit bummed. Due to my TOM last week I was scarce at the gym...back to my trainer today! He doesn't know that I did a 5K and I am super excited to tell him about it
My friend Katie has returned to the gym as well. She was considering lap band and I was trying to talk her out of it my offering to be an exercise partner with her and invited her to join us here! We'll see what she says tonight when she meets me for some ellip work. If the rain stops I am meeting Christine for a walk around 7pm. Brian has his first meeting of "good grief". He is still struggling with the death of his brother and has been distant the past 2 days. I'm not pushing him. Just don't know how I can help
Picked up my next book club book (Strength in What Remains) and my June book (Hotel at the Corner of Bitter and Sweet). I'm excited to get started!

I like your skirt idea, but my DH is always complaining about clutter so a piece of clothing in the kitchen would probably drive him nuts

I hope Brian gets something from his meeting and that it helps him to move forward. That can be hard when you can't help someone in need and you see them suffering so much. Hugs to you both!

 

[dumbo_buddy]

And we really do like DS' school. It's a charter school and consistently ranked by US News as one of the top 100 high schools in the country. We are fortunate that it is here. They are just a bit over the top about things sometimes though.

Have a great time on your vacation, Nancy! I remember those days of hauling DS and all his stuff -- good times, good times! Luckily now all he needs is a book and his iPod so it will get better.

Have a great day all!

i mean, it's one thing if your kid has bad grades, acts up, and misses a TON of school...but 5 days? seems a little over the top! but i do appreciate the fact that they want the kids in school and succeeding. it's a sign of a good school. still, it's not like you need to be told that he missed some school!

i'm looking forward to the time when all the kiddo needs is a book an ipod! sounds like we are a looooong way from that! that's ok. we'll be in paradise soon enough and i'll just keep telling myself that. if only i could have a cocktail or valium to calm my nerves on the plane! oh well!

I will definitely be joining the summer challenge. I am hoping just to get back on plan with doing WW and getting outside more to run. My dh said a girl at work has offered us her P90X dvds so we may do that. I am really excited if she comes through with her offer because I think that could really kick up my weight loss plus if we do it together we can hold each other accountable.



Prayers are coming your way.

********************************************************

I need to get some work done and then I will be heading to pick up my boys to spend a few hours with them before I leave for philly this afternoon. If I dont get back on here I will talk to you all on Friday!

i've heard really great things about p90x! that is great if you can get them for free too! i hear they really kick your butt! i'd be really interested to hear what you think about them!

what's going on in philly? anything fun? if you posted about it then just ignore me! i am a little behind on the posts!

I hate it when my post stays on top for a long time. I always think, did I forget my deodorant today.

LOL! me too!


Wow, you must be getting so excited! Is your tummy feeling better?

you know...it is...sorta. the day starts out pretty good and i feel alright but as the day goes on i start to have a stomach ache. i am thinking about calling the doctor tomorrow just to tell him that i don't feel all that much better. i'm not in the bathroom nonstop which is nice but i FEEL like i could be. does that make sense? still, it's way better than this time last week!

Here's a little story--last week we ran into two of Mike's coworkers. One is a little taller than me (I'm 5'7") and one is a lot shorter than me. The one who is shorter is tiny. Very tiny. She's just a very petitte person. I look at her and think--I will never be that small. Ever. And I feel huge. And I know I am not huge anymore. Anyhow, we hadn't seen them in a while and the girl who is taller than me went on and on about how great I looked and how tiny I was. She actually used the word tiny in a sentence about me. (I don't think anyone has ever done that before in my life except Mike--but he's biased so he doesn't count.) The point--it's all relative. There will ALWAYS be someone who is smaller than me. I am working really hard at accepting what body I was blessed with and not letting how I feel about how I look make life less enjoyable for me. That whole experience really put things in perspective for me. If they are your friends, they are not hung up on what you look like. I hope you are able to enjoy your trip.

it's really so sad how we never feel "perfect" when really we are. there is too much pressure to be thin that i think we lose sight of so much else. i fit into a size 6 dress (ok it was tight but it fit) for this wedding i went to. and i think i looked pretty good! but of course as i saw everyone else i started to feel worse and worse about myself instead of happy that last year there's no way i could have worn that thing.


Nancy--I really hope you are around. I would really miss you.

thanks rose. i really would miss everyone on here. plus, it's not like princess races and disney love goes away if i don't do things right now! i really enjoy keeping in touch with people on here!

I hope things calm down for you Lisa.
ditto!

TOM = ....but what is worse? TOM not showing up as planned!!

ehem, yeah, i can attest for the latter! lol!


Well..... I feel like I started my "something different" four weeks ago when I decided to try South Beach Phase 1 to lose these last 5 pounds. And it is definitely working....but I'm SURE that 4 days of Disney eating will cause some definite backpedaling on the scale. So it will probably be "back to the beach" when I return next week!

hey but you know what the most important thing here is? the fact that you know you will get back to the "beach"! i always have the problem of not getting back on the horse when i fall off.


While I am TOTALLY envious of your trip to Hawaii, I DO NOT envy you that flight with a baby/toddler!! But if you are prepared it should be just fine, right??? Stickers, movies, snacks, toys, juice, books..... it should be enough!

i will just have to take nice deep breaths on the flight. but it'll be me, hubby, and my cousin with us so at least we can take shifts walking up and down the aisles with him! it'll be a trip to remember for sure!

Perfect question, cause I needed to write another post about the summer challenge.

The spring challenge will end on May 20, with results being posted sometime during the following week. There will only be one team for the summer challenge.

The first weigh-in for the summer challenge is tenatively scheduled for Friday, June 3rd. We will probably go until right around Labor Day. This is open for discussion.

Tracey, CC and Connie are all back for the summer. Tracey is going to tweak how we do results, with more info to follow. We may on occasion go two weeks between weigh-ins, but if that is the case we will let you know.

Coaches-- My estimate is that we will need ~13 coaches for the summer. A couple of folks have told me they will go wherever, but here is what I have so far. If you told me when you would like to coach, and I have not made a note of it, please send me another pm. I was a bit distracted the last couple of weeks, and may not have written it down.

6/3/2011 Rose
6/10/2011
6/17/2011
6/24/2011
7/1/2011
7/8/2011
7/15/2011
7/22/2011
7/29/2011
8/5/2011
8/12/2011 Maria (Worfiedoodles)
8/19/2011
8/26/2011
9/2/2011 May or may not need
9/9/2011 May or may not need

Anything new??? I am thinking about posting a weekly organizing challenge. I have found that the more organized I am the better I do with my food. Buffy has offered to maybe help me with this. Please let me know if you have any thoughts about this.

Clippie---we need a new clippie. I designed the clippies for the spring challenge. I would love it if someone could come up with something new for the summer. I know we have some creative types out there. I am really hoping someone wants to do a new Clippie. If not, I will attempt to recycle an old one.

While I am not signing up folks for the new challenge yet, if you know which week you would like to coach feel free to pm me. I will start putting a coaching schedule together.

*****
What I would like to do different for this challenge--I want to get back in the habit of meal planning. This wheat free/meat free diet has been challenging for me. I am hoping to get the hang of it this summer. I am also going to focus again on strength training. Once my knee is healed I plan on going back to strength class twice a week. And I am still debating whether I would like to lose a couple more pounds. My maintain is at 138 right now. I would like to maybe go down to 134, but that might not be realisitic. Since I have been feeling better maintaining has been a little more challenging--not hard, but I have to pay attention.

1. can i coach even if i'm not losing? i think even if i'm not losing i can still do a good job b/c we're all here to make good choices. we'll be around all summer so i can coach pretty much any time. we are supposed to visit my grandpa in PA over 4th of july but other than that weekend i'm free

2. meal planning. it is SO key. i know it's only wednesday but the fact that on monday morning i wrote down my shopping list and what we would have for dinner has been really great. we had hamburgers and waffle fries (ok, not all that healthy but i NEEDED waffle fries that day) on monday and pork chops with tomatoes and brown rice yesterday and we'll have pasta with turkey gravy (we call red sauce gravy up here, by the way) tonight. just knowing ahead of time what we're having for dinner really helps. and helps the wallet too!

*******************

i love how i can type "i need to make better choices" one second and then go and have mickey mouse head -shaped chicken nuggets and leftover waffle fries for lunch. typing it and doing it are two different things! grrr!

still raining here. boo. i'm having a sitter come by in a bit so i can go to the bank, grocery store, and CVS in peace. i will probably be gone no more than 45 min or so and will have to pay the sitter $10 but maaaaan, it will be worth it to be able to get in and out and finish those errands!!

hey good news! the woman that runs the mommy and me class with me offered to let me borrow her portable DVD player for our trip! woot!

 

[SettinSail]

Congrats to all our Biggest Losers this week! Esp to Disney 1990! Great job!

Wednesday's QOTD - Since this challenge is almost over and it sounds like tentative dates have been set for the summer challenge, will you be joining us for the summer challenge and have you given any thought to what you'd like to do differently for the next challenge, if anything?

I will definitely be joining the next challenge as I still have a ways to go. So far, I've lost close to 29 pounds and reduced my BMI from 37 to just over 32.
Every time I lose 6 lbs, my BMI goes down another point. I've disappointed myself this challenge and am going to finish nowhere near the 20 lb goal I set for myself. However, taking Lisa's lead, I pledge to lose 5 more by the end of the challenge and I will have lost 10 this challenge NEXT challenge, I am setting a lower goal - losing 10 pounds rather rather than 20, which is more realistic for me, I am going to submit my weight every Friday and quite messing around hoping for different results on Sat, Sun or Mon......., I am aiming for 200 minutes of exercise every week and 1700 calories a day.

I had a pretty good day today. I did 45 mins on my elliptical and I did not eat at Happy Hour, I only had 2 drinks-Thai Basil Smash I ate before I got there. I would love to see the scale move tomorrow morning
We have a Cinco de Mayo party tomorrow night so I will have to be careful there. I am thinking 1 margarita is all I will have. I also have my monthly hike tomorrow so that will be plenty of strenuous exercise to help balance out any party foods hopefully. Friday I fly to the US for house hunting. I am going to try to get up at 6:00 am every morning and go for a jog or do an exercise video first thing, drink lots of water and move as much as possible throughout the day. I know I will be indulging in some treats while I am home. Mexican food, NC barbecue and a cheeseburger are on the list. Going to try to indulge at lunch time and have light suppers. I need to have some healthy treats that I can't get here too such as the Lara bars and the chiobani yogurt. Rose, what are scoops? I assume you aren't referring to the Tostito scoops since you are GF???

Pamela, have a GREAT trip !!! I will be thinking of you and DD and Buffy and DS a lot next week I am sure! Hope DD stays healthy and I am SURE you will get everything done you need for the trip!

Buffy, you and DS also have a great trip! When are you leaving?

Deb, sorry about Hunter and the MRI. Hoping and praying for a positive outcome. Had to laugh at the Defcon 5 reference though
That's awesome about the lacrosse win, what a patient team, I know they were thrilled to finally win! My DS has been on several teams throughout the years that had more losses than wins and it was always so special when they won. It teaches the kids ALOT of lessons!

Buffy, wow you ran a 5k!!!!!!!!!! You will rock the EE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Maria, I love puzzles! I've done 3 1000 piece puzzles in the 20 months we've lived here. They kept me occupied in some lonely times. DS and DH will not help at all! Glad to hear you are back on track

Sue, in addition to walking the stairs on your cruise, don't forget there's also a walking track on Deck 3 and the gym on Deck 10, you could have some beautiful scenery on early morning work outs if you wanted. You can also do things like tell your server NOT to bring you a dessert or they will prepare things to your specifications such as grilling, no butter, smaller portion etc. They can handle any food requests you'd like! I can't get my DH to split any food w/ me but maybe this is an option for you? Or, think about having tastes of things but not eating the whole thing. Cover the plate with your napkin when you have reached the limit of tastes. Good luck
Have you ever done a Palo brunch? FABULOUS!!!
Hope DS is feeling better.

Bronx Nancy, that's wierd about the wedding food! Wow, can't believe you were right outside the Oval Office as history was being made! What a memory! Have fun in Hawaii! Wow, we are a travelling bunch here.
300 stickers, OMG! Good luck, I am hoping T will be a great traveller for you and will get some rest on the flights.

Rose, that's so funny how you handle rude people - I am going to have to try that! Kill 'em with kindness !!!

Cam, for all your stresses right now. It sounds cliche, but just try to take it one day at a time. Have your meals and snacks and if you feel the urge to eat more keep watching the clock and reminding yourself you are only X minutes away from your next time to eat. Good advice for myself as well Great job on the 5k!!!!!!!!!!! Well, I read later you are back on track-that's great! Love the hot tea idea.

Disney wedding, Enjoy the Rangers game! We are big Josh Hamilton fans here. He's from Raleigh and used to play for the same club team my son played for. We heard they always made him play up a year or two BIG BOY!

Dona, enjoy your days off and next week AP testing will be over !

CC, hope your presentations went well!

Kathy, I think every year you weigh less than the year before is fantastic!
GREAT JOB !!!!!!!!!! I am right there with you on the same old results over and over and hoping to break the cycle soon
for the next few weeks as your mind goes back through memories of your Mom's passing

Karen, congrats on your 5K!!!!!!!!!! AWESOME! You have some good ideas for the next challenge. I think I will steal some for myself!
I have Hotel at the Corner of B&S on my Kindle but haven't read it yet. It was only $5 if I remember correctly. My book club is reading True Deceivers this month and Water for Elephants next time. for your DH

Lisa, glad you made it home safely. Hope things slow down to normal for you soon! That is crazy that you got the letter from the Principal for 5 sick days!
It bugs me that here they give families excused absences to travel to see family since we are in an Int'l setting far from most people's homes but my son could not get credit for his 2 day jamboree at Normandy! Much more educational than a 2 week trip back to Texas to see relatives!
Love the Clippie !!

Nicole, glad you are OK after the storms! I also love re-decorating. Sounds like you are getting some thrifty ideas, I love it! Good luck with taking a exercise break and re-focusing.

aamomma, good luck with your banquet. I always do stuff like cleaning the basement right in the middle of some other huge project like you mentioned. I think for me it has to do with control issues. I know I can totally control the basement cleanout whereas something like the banquet may have some elements outside of my control. I feel better having something I am controlling going on if other areas of life are stressful or chaotic. Just take a look at my clean from top to bottom house these day!

LTS, good luck with the garage sale.

Tracey, sorry to hear about your crown. I HATE dental work!

Lindsay, can not believe you are not a Steelers fan! That is our team in our house. Don't worry too much about flag football. It's more running than anything else. The kids love it and it's great exercise. Enjoy your conference, hope the soreness goes away quickly. Good luck w/p90X if you get those tapes.

Tracey, prayers for your Mom, hope it is good results.

Rose, I love your story about different sizes. I often think how this is just not an issue for men. Look at a football team and all the different sizes men come in. I'm actually short and medium stature but will probably always be on the stocky side just due to genetics. Both my family and DH's have many generations of short stocky people....I didn't notice so much back when I was young and in love!
I will get back to you for which week to coach. My Summer is very much up in the air. DH moves back for good on August 1st and I am trying to find a place to stay here until around Aug 21st so I can still travel A friend offered her place while she's out of town but yesterday she told me she's only comfortable with me staying there while she's there also--Bummer!

Sorry for the long post but Phew! I am caught up with everyone! Forgot to mention our big news that DS got his braces off yesterday. Next week while I am in the US, the 8th grade at his school has a week-long field trip to Salzburg. They are going on the SOM tour! I am so jealous.

Well, 11:38PM here now and I better get to bed so I'll have energy for the hike tomorrow. See you all tomorrow!

Shawn

 

[Disneywedding2010]

Kristina – I still haven’t organized my kitchen which was completely renovated 3 years ago! I still have stuff in boxes in the basement and lots of stuff is still illogically stored. Someday I’ll make time to re-organize. I am glad your Mom is standing firm with your brother after how badly he treated her house. How are the furbabies faring?

They had surgery yesterday to get de-clawed. (Please no one start a debate on this). My mom has to go back tomorrow and pick them up and bring them over here. Then she'll bring them over here and get them situated before she leaves for IL.

 

[pjlla]

i mean, it's one thing if your kid has bad grades, acts up, and misses a TON of school...but 5 days? seems a little over the top! but i do appreciate the fact that they want the kids in school and succeeding. it's a sign of a good school. still, it's not like you need to be told that he missed some school!

I'm glad that DD's school has been so good about this upcoming absence.....but she has missed very little school so far this year. But she is SO stressed tonight trying to finish up as much of the work as possible.

i'm looking forward to the time when all the kiddo needs is a book an ipod! sounds like we are a looooong way from that! that's ok. we'll be in paradise soon enough and i'll just keep telling myself that. if only i could have a cocktail or valium to calm my nerves on the plane! oh well!

That time will come soon enough. Be sure to have plenty of snacks and water (and diapers!!) in case you get delayed somewhere!


i've heard really great things about p90x! that is great if you can get them for free too! i hear they really kick your butt! i'd be really interested to hear what you think about them!

Um..... I think "butt kicking" barely describes it! I've seen it before and it is CRAZY tough!!

i will just have to take nice deep breaths on the flight. but it'll be me, hubby, and my cousin with us so at least we can take shifts walking up and down the aisles with him! it'll be a trip to remember for sure!


It will be like childbirth..... in the long run all you remember is the good stuff!!
2. meal planning. it is SO key. i know it's only wednesday but the fact that on monday morning i wrote down my shopping list and what we would have for dinner has been really great. we had hamburgers and waffle fries (ok, not all that healthy but i NEEDED waffle fries that day) on monday and pork chops with tomatoes and brown rice yesterday and we'll have pasta with turkey gravy (we call red sauce gravy up here, by the way) tonight. just knowing ahead of time what we're having for dinner really helps. and helps the wallet too!


AMEN! Meal planning has made a huge change in my days/weeks. The family eats a healthier, wider variety of meals, I am less stressed at meal time, I buy less "just in case" stuff/junk, and we have less stuff go to waste! It is a WIN-WIN!!

*******************

hey good news! the woman that runs the mommy and me class with me offered to let me borrow her portable DVD player for our trip! woot!

That is great!

I will definitely be joining the next challenge as I still have a ways to go. So far, I've lost close to 29 pounds and reduced my BMI from 37 to just over 32.
Every time I lose 6 lbs, my BMI goes down another point. I've disappointed myself this challenge and am going to finish nowhere near the 20 lb goal I set for myself. However, taking Lisa's lead, I pledge to lose 5 more by the end of the challenge and I will have lost 10 this challenge NEXT challenge, I am setting a lower goal - losing 10 pounds rather rather than 20, which is more realistic for me, I am going to submit my weight every Friday and quite messing around hoping for different results on Sat, Sun or Mon......., I am aiming for 200 minutes of exercise every week and 1700 calories a day.

Glad you are joining us for the summer!

I had a pretty good day today. I did 45 mins on my elliptical and I did not eat at Happy Hour, I only had 2 drinks-Thai Basil Smash I ate before I got there. I would love to see the scale move tomorrow morning
We have a Cinco de Mayo party tomorrow night so I will have to be careful there. I am thinking 1 margarita is all I will have. I also have my monthly hike tomorrow so that will be plenty of strenuous exercise to help balance out any party foods hopefully. Friday I fly to the US for house hunting. I am going to try to get up at 6:00 am every morning and go for a jog or do an exercise video first thing, drink lots of water and move as much as possible throughout the day. I know I will be indulging in some treats while I am home. Mexican food, NC barbecue and a cheeseburger are on the list. Going to try to indulge at lunch time and have light suppers. I need to have some healthy treats that I can't get here too such as the Lara bars and the chiobani yogurt. Rose, what are scoops? I assume you aren't referring to the Tostito scoops since you are GF???

I totally forgot tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo. I won't be able to have a margarita, but I might splurge and have a glass of wine on the plane.

Pamela, have a GREAT trip !!! I will be thinking of you and DD and Buffy and DS a lot next week I am sure! Hope DD stays healthy and I am SURE you will get everything done you need for the trip!

Thanks!! We will!

Sorry for the long post but Phew! I am caught up with everyone! Forgot to mention our big news that DS got his braces off yesterday. Next week while I am in the US, the 8th grade at his school has a week-long field trip to Salzburg. They are going on the SOM tour! I am so jealous.

Well, 11:38PM here now and I better get to bed so I'll have energy for the hike tomorrow. See you all tomorrow!

Shawn

Have a safe trip back "home" here!! Enjoy your visit and I hope you find the perfect house!! Happy hiking!


********Evening all!!

I have never, ever been this far behind in preparing for a trip! I'm starting to freak out a little! We will make it and our suitcases will be ready, but this house will NEVER be as clean as I wanted it to be. oh well.

DH is picking up DD at swim on his way home, so at least I don't have to go out again.

I'm off for now. TTYL......................P

 

[lisah0711]

It's Wednesday...otherwise known as Hump Day. I've been struggling to get over the hump! It was so beautiful last night for my walk (skipped spin to hit the sidewalk). My time is not improving so I am a bit bummed.

Didn't you just do a race this week-end? Your body is still recouperating, girl. You'll get faster, don't worry!

1. can i coach even if i'm not losing? i think even if i'm not losing i can still do a good job b/c we're all here to make good choices. we'll be around all summer so i can coach pretty much any time. we are supposed to visit my grandpa in PA over 4th of july but other than that weekend i'm free

You'll have a great time and you'll be a great coach, Nancy!

Don't forget to pack extra food and drink for your little guy, too. pjlla has a good point extra is good in case you are delayed.

I pledge to lose 5 more by the end of the challenge and I will have lost 10 this challenge NEXT challenge, I am setting a lower goal - losing 10 pounds rather rather than 20, which is more realistic for me, I am going to submit my weight every Friday and quite messing around hoping for different results on Sat, Sun or Mon......., I am aiming for 200 minutes of exercise every week and 1700 calories a day.

Woo hoo, Shawn! We can so do this! I think smaller goals are the better way to go, too.

Pamela, if you are flying on Southwest tomorrow they are having free adult beverages for Cinco de Mayo.

I did 3 miles at lunch with my friend today. I kept my running clothes on because the weather is so nice I decided to go out after work and walk more since DS had an after school activity. In the middle of mile 4 my MIL called to tell me that her sister (who is 90, in a nursing home, and who I help take care of long distance) was taken to the hospital due to complications from the flu. While I am walking and talking on the phone a woman drives by me, turns around, stops and runs out and hands me a folded piece of paper -- I'm still walking and talking -- and says "I can help you -- call me" and gets back in the car. Huh? When I finished talking with MIL I opened the paper and it's an ad for some naturopathic weight loss drink that this woman was is selling. Really? REALLY?!? I'm in such bad shape that people have to stop driving on the street to tell me I need their help?!? Thanks, lady, thanks a lot! It's actually kind of funny but I might not be so philosophical about it if I hadn't been training all this time. I even did another mile.

 

[dvccruiser76]

2. meal planning. it is SO key. i know it's only wednesday but the fact that on monday morning i wrote down my shopping list and what we would have for dinner has been really great. we had hamburgers and waffle fries (ok, not all that healthy but i NEEDED waffle fries that day) on monday and pork chops with tomatoes and brown rice yesterday and we'll have pasta with turkey gravy (we call red sauce gravy up here, by the way) tonight. just knowing ahead of time what we're having for dinner really helps. and helps the wallet too!

*******************

still raining here. boo. i'm having a sitter come by in a bit so i can go to the bank, grocery store, and CVS in peace. i will probably be gone no more than 45 min or so and will have to pay the sitter $10 but maaaaan, it will be worth it to be able to get in and out and finish those errands!!

hey good news! the woman that runs the mommy and me class with me offered to let me borrow her portable DVD player for our trip! woot!

Meal planning has helped me a ton this week. It helps me to make better choices instead of just grabbing what's available.

I hear you on the $10 babysitter. My DH doesn't understand why I don't want to take my DS when I go to pick up take out. The last time I had to take him to order sushi he was ants in the pants so when I forgot to order the edemame and my DH was like hey? I was like, you sould take him with you next time

Yahoo on the DVD player. I'm going to PM you about the packing list now.

I will definitely be joining the next challenge as I still have a ways to go. So far, I've lost close to 29 pounds and reduced my BMI from 37 to just over 32.
Every time I lose 6 lbs, my BMI goes down another point. I've disappointed myself this challenge and am going to finish nowhere near the 20 lb goal I set for myself. However, taking Lisa's lead, I pledge to lose 5 more by the end of the challenge and I will have lost 10 this challenge NEXT challenge, I am setting a lower goal - losing 10 pounds rather rather than 20, which is more realistic for me, I am going to submit my weight every Friday and quite messing around hoping for different results on Sat, Sun or Mon......., I am aiming for 200 minutes of exercise every week and 1700 calories a day.

Sue, in addition to walking the stairs on your cruise, don't forget there's also a walking track on Deck 3 and the gym on Deck 10, you could have some beautiful scenery on early morning work outs if you wanted. You can also do things like tell your server NOT to bring you a dessert or they will prepare things to your specifications such as grilling, no butter, smaller portion etc. They can handle any food requests you'd like! I can't get my DH to split any food w/ me but maybe this is an option for you? Or, think about having tastes of things but not eating the whole thing. Cover the plate with your napkin when you have reached the limit of tastes. Good luck
Have you ever done a Palo brunch? FABULOUS!!!
Hope DS is feeling better.

Great, the more support the merrier

Thanks for the advice, I was thinking we'll throw DS in his stroller after breakfast since he gets up pretty early compared to other cruisers who stay up late and then we'll hit deck 3 for some laps.

I couldn't book brunch, but I will be on the 1st bus out of MCO and heading right to make reservations once we board. Look out anyone that gets in my way

They had surgery yesterday to get de-clawed. (Please no one start a debate on this). My mom has to go back tomorrow and pick them up and bring them over here. Then she'll bring them over here and get them situated before she leaves for IL.

Hope the kitties have a nice quick recovery

I have never, ever been this far behind in preparing for a trip! I'm starting to freak out a little! We will make it and our suitcases will be ready, but this house will NEVER be as clean as I wanted it to be. oh well.

DH is picking up DD at swim on his way home, so at least I don't have to go out again.

Have a wonderful trip, your family deserves it after what you all went through with DH's accident



So, I checked the disboards today a little too much instead of working and had to bring work home, but that's okay. I'll put in an hour then it's off to bed. Have a nice evening everyone

 

[dvccruiser76]

Hi everyone,
Dave I hope you don't mind me posting, but I was getting worried not hearing from you lately, so I checked out Caleb's website for an update.


It sounds like Caleb was scheduled to go in yesterday for another lab and a meeting with the doctor.

Please keep Dave, Caleb and their family in your prayers

We're all pulling for you

 

[my3princes]

Wednesday's QOTD - Since this challenge is almost over and it sounds like tentative dates have been set for the summer challenge, will you be joining us for the summer challenge and have you given any thought to what you'd like to do differently for the next challenge, if anything?

I'm sure that I will be as It's not looking like I'll meet my goal this time.

 

[my3princes]

Prayers needed:

My mom just called. She had an MRI yesterday and now has to go see a specialist. They saw some sort of mass on her back. She has been in severe pain and had a horrible night last night.

I'm going to really have to hold things together including me eating!

Off to a field day planning meeting.

Stay strong Tracy, Medical issues are certainly stressful

Perfect question, cause I needed to write another post about the summer challenge.

The spring challenge will end on May 20, with results being posted sometime during the following week. There will only be one team for the summer challenge.

The first weigh-in for the summer challenge is tenatively scheduled for Friday, June 3rd. We will probably go until right around Labor Day. This is open for discussion.

Tracey, CC and Connie are all back for the summer. Tracey is going to tweak how we do results, with more info to follow. We may on occasion go two weeks between weigh-ins, but if that is the case we will let you know.

Coaches-- My estimate is that we will need ~13 coaches for the summer. A couple of folks have told me they will go wherever, but here is what I have so far. If you told me when you would like to coach, and I have not made a note of it, please send me another pm. I was a bit distracted the last couple of weeks, and may not have written it down.

6/3/2011 Rose
6/10/2011
6/17/2011
6/24/2011
7/1/2011
7/8/2011
7/15/2011
7/22/2011
7/29/2011
8/5/2011
8/12/2011 Maria (Worfiedoodles)
8/19/2011
8/26/2011
9/2/2011 May or may not need
9/9/2011 May or may not need

Anything new??? I am thinking about posting a weekly organizing challenge. I have found that the more organized I am the better I do with my food. Buffy has offered to maybe help me with this. Please let me know if you have any thoughts about this.

Clippie---we need a new clippie. I designed the clippies for the spring challenge. I would love it if someone could come up with something new for the summer. I know we have some creative types out there. I am really hoping someone wants to do a new Clippie. If not, I will attempt to recycle an old one.

While I am not signing up folks for the new challenge yet, if you know which week you would like to coach feel free to pm me. I will start putting a coaching schedule together.

*****
What I would like to do different for this challenge--I want to get back in the habit of meal planning. This wheat free/meat free diet has been challenging for me. I am hoping to get the hang of it this summer. I am also going to focus again on strength training. Once my knee is healed I plan on going back to strength class twice a week. And I am still debating whether I would like to lose a couple more pounds. My maintain is at 138 right now. I would like to maybe go down to 134, but that might not be realisitic. Since I have been feeling better maintaining has been a little more challenging--not hard, but I have to pay attention.

I'd love to make a new clippie if no one else has stepped up. I was on the very first creative disigns thread afterall

 

[my3princes]

I'm in a quandry. My new job is going well, but I discovered on Monday while trying to get things in place for Hunter's MRI on Monday that the insurance that I thought I was getting was not what I have at all, not even close. It turns out that the information that they provided me prior to taking the job was from 2009 and the Cadillac insurance plan is no longer offered to anyone. So the no deductible, no coinsurance, simply a copay plan that I thought I was getting didn't happen. The MRI that I thought would cost us $100 copay will now cost us 20% of the contracted price which will likely be $1000 I tried to talk with the HR person on Monday, but she was busy. I ended up sending an email Monday night and I've been told that they are working on a solution. They were supposed to get back to me with this "solution" today. The reality is that my benefit package more than likely is worth $5000/yr less than what I anticipated as we now have a $5000 out of pocket maximum.

Ironically, I started getting voicemails from the VA Hospital on Monday for a job that I interviewed for before I was offered the job at the Oil Company. We played phone tag for 2 days and they finally emailed me today with a job offer. I've emailed back asking for more information on the benefit package. I do know that it a 1 year term position, but it could be offered to me for 4 consecutive years. It will also give me government experience and a grade for future employment. I would start as a GS4, but would most likely be reclassified as a GS5 after 90 days as I already have years of experience. I wish I knew what a Grade increase means pay wise. Does anyone have any idea?

It's nice to have options, but I'm lacking lots of info. Of course Hunter is still scheduled for an MRI on Monday which I have no idea on how much it will cost I really don't want to start over, but at the same time I feel lied to.

 

[cclovesdis]

Hi Everyone!

I forgot to mention that I had plans last night and would not be able to check the thread. I apologize.

Speaking of plans, I am way off plan. I did just go to the gym and I'm feeling good about things. I'm hoping tomorrow is a good day. Thursdays start my WW week and I'm planning to use as few of my 49 weeklies as possible considering I ate every bit of 75 points today. I'd also like to go to the gym at least 3x between now and Monday, so before I weigh in on Tuesday.

I'm yawyning away now, so no time for more specific replies.

Thanks for all the support and to all who need them.

 

[tigger813]

Stress eating has begun! Chipotle Tostitos!

Talked to my mom who is a mess. She goes to see a dr. on Friday morning. He thinks it may be bone cancer. We're glad he's seeing her so quickly but also frightened that he's seeing her so fast! My sister is taking her on Friday. Not sure if my dad should go as he could get very confused and overwhelmed. I'm pretty sure he will insist on going but if he doesn't my nephew will hang out with him.

I'm trying to hold it together in front of the kids. I was good talking to my sister but keep catching myself thinking too hard.

Getting a headache from holding things inside! Probably get in bed soon to watch the Bruins game. I'm emotionally exhausted right now. I'm trying to decide if I should take Friday off so I can be available to talk to my mom and sister after the appointment. I don't know if I'd be good to anyone at work on Friday. I don't have any clients scheduled. I will talk to my boss tomorrow.

Not to get ahead of myself, but is there anyone else interested in being weightkeeper for the summer challenge or being a back up. I just don't know what is going to be happening and don't want to leave everyone high and dry.

TTFN

 

[my3princes]

Stress eating has begun! Chipotle Tostitos!

Talked to my mom who is a mess. She goes to see a dr. on Friday morning. He thinks it may be bone cancer. We're glad he's seeing her so quickly but also frightened that he's seeing her so fast! My sister is taking her on Friday. Not sure if my dad should go as he could get very confused and overwhelmed. I'm pretty sure he will insist on going but if he doesn't my nephew will hang out with him.

I'm trying to hold it together in front of the kids. I was good talking to my sister but keep catching myself thinking too hard.

Getting a headache from holding things inside! Probably get in bed soon to watch the Bruins game. I'm emotionally exhausted right now. I'm trying to decide if I should take Friday off so I can be available to talk to my mom and sister after the appointment. I don't know if I'd be good to anyone at work on Friday. I don't have any clients scheduled. I will talk to my boss tomorrow.

Not to get ahead of myself, but is there anyone else interested in being weightkeeper for the summer challenge or being a back up. I just don't know what is going to be happening and don't want to leave everyone high and dry.

TTFN

Put down the chips. I absolutely know what you're going through, truthfully I'm going through it all over again. You will make it through this and come out a stronger person. It seems overwhelming for sure. Take it one day at a time, one appointment, one phone call, one breath at a time. I'm here if you need to talk. It was a bit different as it was a child for me and in many ways I wish that it had been me as it would have been much much easier. The not knowing is certainly harder than the knowing.

 

[tigger813]

Put down the chips. I absolutely know what you're going through, truthfully I'm going through it all over again. You will make it through this and come out a stronger person. It seems overwhelming for sure. Take it one day at a time, one appointment, one phone call, one breath at a time. I'm here if you need to talk. It was a bit different as it was a child for me and in many ways I wish that it had been me as it would have been much much easier. The not knowing is certainly harder than the knowing.

Thanks, Deb! I only had a shake for supper so I was due for something else! Really need to go to bed right now as my head is starting to really bother me! Having my 2nd soda of the day! Oh well. Tomorrow is another day!

TTFN

 

[donac]

Good Thursday morning Teams

Just a short note since I need to get to work early to see what kind of mess my sub had yesterday. I didn't know the sub but he only had 3 classes and one class had nothing to do since they took their AP exam yesterday morning.

tigger813 I can take over the weight info for you this summer. I can imagine the stress you are feeling by not knowing right now. Your mother is in my prayers.

I spent yesterday taking my parents in to see some relatives. They get together once a month at a restaurant for lunch to meet my mother's sister and husband, my father's sister and one of my mother's cousin and wife. They have been doing this since my grandmother died 15 years ago. It has gotten harder for my parents to drive the distance so my sisters and I have been taking turns doing it.

Yesterday was a rainy day but the drive wasn't too bad.

Any one traveling to Dw this weekend have a great trip.

I have to get ready for work

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[dvccruiser76]

Good morning everyone!

I'm in a quandry. My new job is going well, but I discovered on Monday while trying to get things in place for Hunter's MRI on Monday that the insurance that I thought I was getting was not what I have at all, not even close. It turns out that the information that they provided me prior to taking the job was from 2009 and the Cadillac insurance plan is no longer offered to anyone. So the no deductible, no coinsurance, simply a copay plan that I thought I was getting didn't happen. The MRI that I thought would cost us $100 copay will now cost us 20% of the contracted price which will likely be $1000 I tried to talk with the HR person on Monday, but she was busy. I ended up sending an email Monday night and I've been told that they are working on a solution. They were supposed to get back to me with this "solution" today. The reality is that my benefit package more than likely is worth $5000/yr less than what I anticipated as we now have a $5000 out of pocket maximum.

Ironically, I started getting voicemails from the VA Hospital on Monday for a job that I interviewed for before I was offered the job at the Oil Company. We played phone tag for 2 days and they finally emailed me today with a job offer. I've emailed back asking for more information on the benefit package. I do know that it a 1 year term position, but it could be offered to me for 4 consecutive years. It will also give me government experience and a grade for future employment. I would start as a GS4, but would most likely be reclassified as a GS5 after 90 days as I already have years of experience. I wish I knew what a Grade increase means pay wise. Does anyone have any idea?

It's nice to have options, but I'm lacking lots of info. Of course Hunter is still scheduled for an MRI on Monday which I have no idea on how much it will cost I really don't want to start over, but at the same time I feel lied to.

Oh man I hope they can do something. I guess it may depend on how big the company is and if they have flexability. If they value you as an employee they should make it right. Hopefully it was a mistake and not an outright lie, otherwise you may be better off looking into the other job further.

I hope everything turns out okay

Hi Everyone!

I forgot to mention that I had plans last night and would not be able to check the thread. I apologize.

Speaking of plans, I am way off plan. I did just go to the gym and I'm feeling good about things. I'm hoping tomorrow is a good day. Thursdays start my WW week and I'm planning to use as few of my 49 weeklies as possible considering I ate every bit of 75 points today. I'd also like to go to the gym at least 3x between now and Monday, so before I weigh in on Tuesday.

I'm yawyning away now, so no time for more specific replies.

Thanks for all the support and to all who need them.

Good morning, it sounds like you're busy but still hitting the gym and staying on track so keep up the good work.

Stress eating has begun! Chipotle Tostitos!

Talked to my mom who is a mess. She goes to see a dr. on Friday morning. He thinks it may be bone cancer. We're glad he's seeing her so quickly but also frightened that he's seeing her so fast! My sister is taking her on Friday. Not sure if my dad should go as he could get very confused and overwhelmed. I'm pretty sure he will insist on going but if he doesn't my nephew will hang out with him.

I'm trying to hold it together in front of the kids. I was good talking to my sister but keep catching myself thinking too hard.

Getting a headache from holding things inside! Probably get in bed soon to watch the Bruins game. I'm emotionally exhausted right now. I'm trying to decide if I should take Friday off so I can be available to talk to my mom and sister after the appointment. I don't know if I'd be good to anyone at work on Friday. I don't have any clients scheduled. I will talk to my boss tomorrow.

Not to get ahead of myself, but is there anyone else interested in being weightkeeper for the summer challenge or being a back up. I just don't know what is going to be happening and don't want to leave everyone high and dry.

TTFN

Hi Tracey, I hope the appointment goes well and we'll all keep you and your family in our prayers

If you need a backup weight tracker still I'd be happy to help.

Good Thursday morning Teams

Just a short note since I need to get to work early to see what kind of mess my sub had yesterday. I didn't know the sub but he only had 3 classes and one class had nothing to do since they took their AP exam yesterday morning.

I spent yesterday taking my parents in to see some relatives. They get together once a month at a restaurant for lunch to meet my mother's sister and husband, my father's sister and one of my mother's cousin and wife. They have been doing this since my grandmother died 15 years ago. It has gotten harder for my parents to drive the distance so my sisters and I have been taking turns doing it.

Yesterday was a rainy day but the drive wasn't too bad.

Any one traveling to Dw this weekend have a great trip.

I have to get ready for work

Have a happy and healthy day.

Good morning, I hope today is sunny and good all around

 

[dvccruiser76]

Good morning everyone! Hello to anyone that I've missed in my previous post as well.

Happy Cinco De Mayo

DS was up coughing last night for a while so I think it may be time to call to doc.

It's kind of dreary looking outside but hopefully the sun will peek through at some point.

I have to go to Beverly to meet with a new client today. He's from Belgium so I think some things get lost when we exchange emails, because he's been kind of rude so hopefully it all goes well.

Enjoy your Thursday

 

[dvccruiser76]

Thursday's QOTD - Since today is Cinco De Mayo, do you have any special plans for celebrating?