Biggest Loser 9 Spring Challenge -- thread closing -- see new thread Part 2!

[corinnak]

Hello Biggest Loser friends!

I am back from Florida, have caught up the QOTD archive (thanks so much to Lisa for covering & bumping the thread as well!) and....well, that's about it.

I had a great trip, a great race and a great time with the WISH team. Well, it was mostly a great trip - the first few days it seemed like everything was going just slightly wrong. The races were really great - I did both the 5K and Half marathon and was amazed by the number of characters on the course. I was trying to take it easy on the 5K, and stopped for a photo with every character. The half marathon, I was trying to strike a balance between stopping for the photos I wanted and pushing for a PR. I'm pleased to report that I did pretty well with that as I got BOTH. 2:10:20 was my time, more than 3 minutes faster than January, and I have a whole TON of photos. Here is one:

Food is always challenging on these race weekends. I did OK, I think, but stopped counting on....Saturday, I guess. I just ate to hunger, chose mostly the healthiest things I could and tried not to go crazy. I always have a few pounds on the scale after a trip like this - partly from the endurance event - I think bodies hold onto a few pounds of water to help with the repairs and strengthening that needs to be done. There's also the additional salt, and some additional calories as well.

Which brings me to the questions of the days (I was behind before I left!!):

3/3 Wednesday QOTD: We all know that diet and activity contribute to our success at weight loss. Do you find diet or exercise to be more of a challenge for you? What can you do to overcome these challenges?

Both are challenging - it used to be that I had an easier time with the food and had a harder time getting the exercise going. The past few years, it has been the opposite. I have it in my head that the exercise is more than just calories burned - it is theraputic mentally and physically and crucial to other goals that I have for myself. I spent several years running at 40-50 lbs heavier and I KNOW that I have to have the food in place to have continuing success managing my weight. Logging the food is so important, but it took a while for me to get back to it being not that big of a deal when I started tracking again. I still struggle far more with food that beckons to me and the urge to under or overeat than I do with the workouts.

3/6 Saturday QOTD: Let's say you went to Disney and ate everything in site even though you have been enjoying a healthy lifestyle for months (), how do you get back on the wagon when you get back? Do you weigh in right away or try to lose some of the weight gain before checking in with the scale...do you struggle getting back on track?

Hmmmm. This sounds like something that just, JUST happened. I did not exactly eat everything in sight, but my diet was dramatically different from what it is at home. I have been here before, though, and I know what works. I always, always weigh in again right away. It keeps me honest until the next weigh in day, and it is so interesting to see that I do gain a couple of pounds the days after a big race, but then by the next weekend, it really can be just gone again.

I always tell myself that the trip and what happened foodwise on the trip is not the important thing - the important thing is what happens next. The trip was a really small fraction of my life - what happens in the following weeks is so much more crucial, and pounds that come easily tend to go away easily, too.. So I always start careful tracking again either on travel day or the very next day. It has worked so well in the past, I continue to do it and it continues to be a successful strategy. As for the WW 35 flex points, it is a misery to come back from a trip and figure I used them all on the days I wasn't tracking. I've had good success with either giving myself half of them to play with for the week, or between 3 & 5 per day for the rest of the week. Because lack of flex points OR not knowing how many I had left to work with is the kind of thing that might have gotten in the way of my getting back to happily tracking quickly.

3/7 Sunday QOTD: Now that there have been another 4 weeks added to the Challenge, are you planning on changing your challenge goal with LuvBaloo? or are you just going to think of it as a bonus 4 weeks to get to your original goal?

It doesn't really change anything for me - I'm just going to keep on maintaining, training, and participating. Oh man, sorry for the rhyme there. Apparently I cold not resist.

3/8 Monday QOTD: What is one thing you do for yourself when you want to feel better physically that does not involve weight loss/excersize?

Uhhhh.....uh....I think I am a little bit tunnel-visioned in this department! I'm going to go ahead and say....moisturize. My skin tends to get dry, so moisturizing regularly can really help my comfort level sometimes. I also have a paraffin wax bath thing for moisturizing hand treatments. My kids enjoy that too - I need to get that out soon, as we haven't done it at all this winter!

And with that, I'm going to turn in, I think. My sleep habits have been very strange this weekend, with busses needing to be caught in the middle of the night, naps during the day, sleeping on the plane...I'm a napping wonder, I tell you!

 

[3TinksAndAnEeyore]

Hello Biggest Loser friends!
I am back from Florida, have caught up the QOTD archive (thanks so much to Lisa for covering & bumping the thread as well!) and....well, that's about it.

Wow! You look great! And you sound so excited and happy about your trip! You are such an inspiration to me. It's great knowing you started with the C25K program, also. And, thank you for showing us your before picture awhile back...otherwise I think I'd look at your current picture and just assume you've always been thin!

I finally started SparkPeople. I love the "Lose it!" app on my iPhone but was curious about the fuss about SP and then saw there's an app for it as well. I think I'm going to do both for the next week just to see how I do with the new one before giving up on the old. I really like all the bells and whistles that go along with the SparkPeople website and app. I'm surprisingly motivated by little "awards". I think that's one of the big reasons I did well on Weight Watchers ten years ago. The instructor at the time was not only a great and motivating speaker, but she passed out all sorts of little stickers as prizes. And boy did I like to get those stickers!

 

[jenanderson]

Morning Everyone! Yesterday was a very busy day for me so I didn't even get a chance to come and post. I did try to read some posts for a bit though. This week is going to be a very crazy one and I am hoping I can stay on track as I have report cards due by Thursday and conferences on Friday. It is always a very stressful time for me and is normally dealt with by eating an excessive amount of food. I am hoping that I have learned skills to not allow that to happen this week.

Yesterday was my day off from running but I did do 2 miles of walking on the TM with an incline and lifted my 3 pound weights the entire time. Today is a running day and I am hoping that it is not raining tonight because I want to run outside - not on the TM.

I am not entirely happy with how things are going with my weight loss right now. I feel like I am really fighting with myself every single minute to not over eat. I can't put my finger on what it is really but I know I have to figure it out because I have actually now seen a .5 gain on the scale this morning. I know that it not that much but it does make me feel a bit worried because I don't feel like my head is really in the game right now. I am logging everything and doing my exercising but the food part of it is a battle. Somehow I went from being satisfied with my WW points to feeling like I needed my daily points, my flex points and some or all of my activity points. I am not really going over that but using them all has caused a stall and even now this gain. Everyday I find myself telling myself that today will be the day I change up my attitude and everyday I eat more than I wanted to. So...today I am going to battle myself again and say that I am going to stay within my daily points range and not allow myself to give into the temptation of the extra points.


3/8 Monday QOTD: What is one thing you do for yourself when you want to feel better physically that does not involve weight loss/excersize?
For me it is a hair cut and color. I love when my hair is freshly cut and it does exactly what I want it to do. I also love when all the highlights and coloring is the color I want and you don't see all the dark roots!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.
The biggest one is I do not sit on the couch all the time any more. I was truly a couch potato before all this started. I know am up and exercising so much more. Also, before the BL challenge, my blood sugar levels were very high and I needed my insulin. I am back down to a lower weight and with the exercise I don't need the insulin any more. Finally, I was so unhappy with what I saw when I looked in the mirror. Now I look in the mirror and I am happy with what I see. I know there are still improvements to be made but when I can see the changes that have already occurred, I feel really good.

Alright, have to get ready for school. Have a great day everyone!
Jen

 

[mikamah]

Good morning everyone. I took a day off to destress from the last few weeks. I have been busy for 3 weeks without a break even on the weekends because of working and working on the local high school's play. This weekend we had a rehersal in front of senior citizens on Thurs, a show Fri, two on Sat and break down on Sun. I did go to the cast party on Sat night but only stayed for a half an hour had 2 nachos and dip, and 10 shrimps and a couple of cucumbers and then left.

Glad you took a day to yourself. The plays must be so stressful and so much work, and a big relief when it is over, but still lots of work. Sounds like you did great at the party.

I'm thrilled that he wears shorts in this video and not a leotard. I used to do his workouts all the time but my TV was at eye level and so was his..... ummm..... package. It was so distracting!!!

You're too much. But you have me thinking about richard simmons now.

Sitting at my desk, trying to convince myself not to eat a Kashi bar -- which will eventually put me over my WW points for the day. We're having chicken/ziti/broccoli for dinner, which means I need a ton of points left for dinner -- I am so hungry! I ran 4M in 46 minutes this morning, how awful would it be if I ate some of those points? Yes, I am looking for permission to do something I shouldn't...dinner won't be ready until about 7, so I have a long way to go...

Maria

I know I"m too late for yesterday's kashi bar, but I hope you ate it. I'm a firm believer in using the weekly 35, and activity points as well if you need them. In my many years of ww experience, I have found my losses to be better when I ate all the 35, without going over, as opposed to not eating them. Same with the activity points, if I earned them, I usually ate them, and when I was really on the program, I would lose consistently as long as I stayed with in my points, including the flex and aps. I know everyone is different, and as you are lower and closer to goal, you may not be able to us as many. Hope you had a good afternoon.

DD and I got back about 1/2 hour ago from day 1 c25k - I did the whole thing! I would have quit if I was alone. On the 3rd run I got a stabbing pain in my shin. We stopped so she could put her hair up and then on the next run I was okay. I was probably doing more of a fast waddle than a run but I did it - and then next one and the next one. Got home and took some naproxen and stretched - just came up to get on the computer and felt like I was walking on the moon to get up the stairs! Am ordering my kt tape when I finish this post. DD's arches hurt too - not good, they get sore at cheer w/all the tumbling and jumps they do.

Lisa did you start the c25k today????

Kathy - I did get a good masher bra - that makes a HUGE difference (no pun intended there!), no black eyes from running!

funny the black eyes!! Congrat on completing your first day!! That is awesome!! I took advil the first couple times too, and was achey afterwards too, kind of general muscle aches, not one area in specific. My knees don't hurt really during the jogs, but feel tender afterwards. Nice job on the run!!!

Evening all! I am pleased to report that I did a 4 mile run outside again today... in 39 minutes! I am thrilled with that time. That was with head winds, pot holes, puddles, frost heaves, and a dog that got in my way! I don't love the running, but I definitely love the feeling of accomplishment I have when I am done! I only got in 45 minutes of exercise today, but it was a GOOD 45 minutes!

Wow, that sounds really fast!! Nice job Pamela!!

Hi guys,

My name is Michelle and I am from Columbus, Ohio. I just found this thread and I couldn't wait to join. I have struggled with weight my whole life and I am bound and determined to win this battle. I have 3 beautiful daughters and I want them growing up in a healthy home.

You guys are all so inspiring! I am so tired all the time that I can't make myself exercise, even though I know it will give me energy and make me feel better. I am going to try and make myself do atleast something tomorrow!

My husband has a weird job that takes him out of state for months at a time. He was just in Florida for 8 months, was home for 3 weeks and now is gone again until June. Though I know its an excuse, I am an emotional eater and I get bummed about missing him and eat to soothe myself. Crazy huh!?!? I know it will make me feel worse in the end, but I do it anyway.


I am really excited about this biggest losers challenge, even though I am coming in so late, and can't wait to join you guys in losing! DISers are so awesome!

Welcome to our challenge. I was in columbus once, and remember the awesome zoo you guys have there. We went for a wedding of my cousing in westerville, and made a vacation out of it. It's great to meet you.

Corinna- You look absolutely amazing, so happy and healthy, and look at those skinny legs, girl. You must be so proud of yourself. I showed my son the picture, and told him about the 5K, and told him that maybe one day we'd run in it together. You are such an inspiration. Love the picture!

Kimara and Happysmyly- so sorry about your grandfather. It will be a tough time, and it is nice you are going to go to disneyland after to unwind, kimara. Take care.

Off to work. Have a great day all!!

 

[corinnak]

Wow! You look great! And you sound so excited and happy about your trip! You are such an inspiration to me. It's great knowing you started with the C25K program, also. And, thank you for showing us your before picture awhile back...otherwise I think I'd look at your current picture and just assume you've always been thin!


I think that's one of the big reasons I did well on Weight Watchers ten years ago. The instructor at the time was not only a great and motivating speaker, but she passed out all sorts of little stickers as prizes. And boy did I like to get those stickers!

Wow- thanks so much for that compliment. It was a very fun trip and I had so much fun in both races. It is funny how I look at these pictures and still see the remains of my former self, but that you can look at them and see...just someone who might never have been where I've been.

I am reading this book called "Switch" about how to change when change is hard, and this quote stuck with me from the plane ride yesterday. They are talking about how to keep a change going when the journey is long and difficult. They talked about another type of journey: how to train a monkey to ride a skateboard - the answer does not involve punishment but instead reward the monkey with mango for each little step, like Mango for every time it does not freak out when the board is in the cage, then Mango for each time it touches the board. Mango for each time sitting on the board etc. And they said "Hundreds of sessions later, you have a mango-bloated monkey ready to skate a half-pipe" And later on they said "A long journey requires lots of mango." I think this easily applies to the changes we are making and shows why it makes sense to give yourself small rewards along the way. Maybe not all mango, but...well, whatever floats your boat, I guess!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

A practical one -It used to be that all the time was a good time for eating, especially at Disney, and I'd go to buffets and "get my money's worth." Now, I usually only eat when I'm hungry and stop when I'm full, especially while travelling. I also pack along plenty of healthy food from home for the airport/plane ride and for while I'm there, too.

These threads move fast, so for those that might have missed the photos before, I'm going to show some differences:

January 2009 WDW Half Marathon - I had just joined BL challenge and started counting points again a few weeks prior:

March 2010 - Disney's Princess Half Marathon - This is me in the exact same shirt in pretty close to the exact same spot, but even I can see that I'm barely recognizable as the same person:

One of the biggest changes is that I don't actually wince a little inside when I get my picture taken at this point. And I don't wince when I look at them either. And I don't crop them down to above that belly-bulge either. It probably helps that I wasn't wearing a belt this year, but you know what I mean. It's great to feel the confidence in my appearance to just be able to go and enjoy and take lots of pictures, too.

In other news, my weight this morning exactly matches my weight when I left last Friday! I usually expect to see a bump after a big event and more relaxed food weekend, but apparently, I did a good job of picking and choosing my treats. One of the highlights of the weekend was having a celebratory post-race Welsh Dragon!

So here's the big deal change that has made this possible: Mind you, that before picture shows a woman who had tried and stopped Weight Watchers (and a couple of other weight loss methods, too) at least 8 times over the previous 10 years, including while I was running. The difference between the 2009 attempt and all those other times: The DISboards Biggest Loser Challenge.

 

[ShortyNBug]

Wow Corinna. You look amazing! Way to go girl!

 

[jennz]

Hi guys,

My name is Michelle and I am from Columbus, Ohio. I just found this thread and I couldn't wait to join. I have struggled with weight my whole life and I am bound and determined to win this battle. I have 3 beautiful daughters and I want them growing up in a healthy home.

You guys are all so inspiring! I am so tired all the time that I can't make myself exercise, even though I know it will give me energy and make me feel better. I am going to try and make myself do atleast something tomorrow!

My husband has a weird job that takes him out of state for months at a time. He was just in Florida for 8 months, was home for 3 weeks and now is gone again until June. Though I know its an excuse, I am an emotional eater and I get bummed about missing him and eat to soothe myself. Crazy huh!?!? I know it will make me feel worse in the end, but I do it anyway.


I am really excited about this biggest losers challenge, even though I am coming in so late, and can't wait to join you guys in losing! DISers are so awesome!

Welcome welcome!! Your emotional eating isn't an excuse, it's a reason - and you're doing great identifying the reason for your eating!! Now you can figure out other things to do when you get sad. I would be bummed too - that's tough having your dh gone so long! Also want to say don't push it with exercise, take it slow, maybe start with some walking (I say this because I have repeatedly overdone it and injured myself! ) One final thing...check out the weekly COWs, they will help you focus. I made a list last week of what I need to do to refocus myself and then noticed Donac had already done that, they were all on the COW!

Lisa - the fatsecret.com - the iPhone kind of switches to camera and has a red line across it that you make sure goes across the bar code and then it scans it that way - very cool!

Mikamah, Lisa, 3Tinks, JenA and pjilla and everyone else...thanks for the advice & encouragement on the c25k! My thighs are sore today but my shins don't hurt - I'm happily surprised about that! I am NOT thinking about tomorrow or how tough it might be and I am also NOT doing a tough workout today...I will just make sure to get my steps in throughout the day.

Maiziezoe - I wish you got your bodybugg - I would love to know what your daily calorie burn is!! (nosy aren't I? ) Yesterday was my highest ever at 3100 - cleaned upstairs and did the c25k.

Corrinak - that's a great picture!!! You look FABULOUS!!!

 

[lisah0711]

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

Oh, and I booked and paid deposit on my 2011 Disney Dream cruise today!

Oooo! A cruise! How exciting! Where are you going and on what ship?

Some differences in my pre BL Challenge life and current life: I think about healthy living and nutrition almost as much as I think about Disney. I have a cute low maintenance cut that I love because I deserve to have nice looking hair even if it costs money every month to maintain the color. I also wear more makeup and wear nicer clothes. And the biggest difference is that I am actually getting someplace instead of just talking about getting there someday!

Hello Biggest Loser friends!

I am back from Florida, have caught up the QOTD archive (thanks so much to Lisa for covering & bumping the thread as well!) and....well, that's about it.

I had a great trip, a great race and a great time with the WISH team. Well, it was mostly a great trip - the first few days it seemed like everything was going just slightly wrong. The races were really great - I did both the 5K and Half marathon and was amazed by the number of characters on the course. I was trying to take it easy on the 5K, and stopped for a photo with every character. The half marathon, I was trying to strike a balance between stopping for the photos I wanted and pushing for a PR. I'm pleased to report that I did pretty well with that as I got BOTH. 2:10:20 was my time, more than 3 minutes faster than January, and I have a whole TON of photos.

Food is always challenging on these race weekends. I did OK, I think, but stopped counting on....Saturday, I guess. I just ate to hunger, chose mostly the healthiest things I could and tried not to go crazy. I always have a few pounds on the scale after a trip like this - partly from the endurance event - I think bodies hold onto a few pounds of water to help with the repairs and strengthening that needs to be done. There's also the additional salt, and some additional calories as well.

Welcome back, corinnak!

I was happy to help keep the QOTD thread going. I'm glad we brought it back because a lot of people use it. Thank you for maintaining it for us!

You looked a lot warmer in these pictures that you did in January. :snowflake: Glad that you had a great time and I love your new "goal" clippie!

Wow! You look great! And you sound so excited and happy about your trip! You are such an inspiration to me. It's great knowing you started with the C25K program, also. And, thank you for showing us your before picture awhile back...otherwise I think I'd look at your current picture and just assume you've always been thin!

I finally started SparkPeople. I love the "Lose it!" app on my iPhone but was curious about the fuss about SP and then saw there's an app for it as well. I think I'm going to do both for the next week just to see how I do with the new one before giving up on the old. I really like all the bells and whistles that go along with the SparkPeople website and app. I'm surprisingly motivated by little "awards". I think that's one of the big reasons I did well on Weight Watchers ten years ago. The instructor at the time was not only a great and motivating speaker, but she passed out all sorts of little stickers as prizes. And boy did I like to get those stickers!

I'm a SparkPeople fan, too.

Morning Everyone! Yesterday was a very busy day for me so I didn't even get a chance to come and post. I did try to read some posts for a bit though. This week is going to be a very crazy one and I am hoping I can stay on track as I have report cards due by Thursday and conferences on Friday. It is always a very stressful time for me and is normally dealt with by eating an excessive amount of food. I am hoping that I have learned skills to not allow that to happen this week.

Yesterday was my day off from running but I did do 2 miles of walking on the TM with an incline and lifted my 3 pound weights the entire time. Today is a running day and I am hoping that it is not raining tonight because I want to run outside - not on the TM.

I am not entirely happy with how things are going with my weight loss right now. I feel like I am really fighting with myself every single minute to not over eat. I can't put my finger on what it is really but I know I have to figure it out because I have actually now seen a .5 gain on the scale this morning. I know that it not that much but it does make me feel a bit worried because I don't feel like my head is really in the game right now. I am logging everything and doing my exercising but the food part of it is a battle. Somehow I went from being satisfied with my WW points to feeling like I needed my daily points, my flex points and some or all of my activity points. I am not really going over that but using them all has caused a stall and even now this gain. Everyday I find myself telling myself that today will be the day I change up my attitude and everyday I eat more than I wanted to. So...today I am going to battle myself again and say that I am going to stay within my daily points range and not allow myself to give into the temptation of the extra points.


3/8 Monday QOTD: What is one thing you do for yourself when you want to feel better physically that does not involve weight loss/excersize?
For me it is a hair cut and color. I love when my hair is freshly cut and it does exactly what I want it to do. I also love when all the highlights and coloring is the color I want and you don't see all the dark roots!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.
The biggest one is I do not sit on the couch all the time any more. I was truly a couch potato before all this started. I know am up and exercising so much more. Also, before the BL challenge, my blood sugar levels were very high and I needed my insulin. I am back down to a lower weight and with the exercise I don't need the insulin any more. Finally, I was so unhappy with what I saw when I looked in the mirror. Now I look in the mirror and I am happy with what I see. I know there are still improvements to be made but when I can see the changes that have already occurred, I feel really good.

Alright, have to get ready for school. Have a great day everyone!
Jen

Wow! You don't need insulin anymore. That sounds like a BIG accomplishment to me. Getting your blood sugar back to more healthy levels affects all your organs -- so not only are you happier looking in the mirror at the new you but inside you is a healthier you, too.

Good luck with grading week and conferences. It's a stressful time for teachers. I hope that you get many, many more parents expressing their appreciation for your hard work than you do complainers.

Corinna- You look absolutely amazing, so happy and healthy, and look at those skinny legs, girl. You must be so proud of yourself. I showed my son the picture, and told him about the 5K, and told him that maybe one day we'd run in it together. You are such an inspiration. Love the picture!

I think a family 5K would be a lot of fun -- but you better find one besides a Princess run for Michael -- you would never live that down!

Interesting book, corinnak. Have to figure out what my mangos are because I am not a mango fan.

Wow Corinna. You look amazing! Way to go girl!

Hi Lynsey! Nice to see you.

Have a great day all!

 

[jennz]

Corrina - thank you for posting your last year picture again - it is sooooo inspirational! I have to look close to see that it really is you in the first one. I just love looking at it and seeing your metamorphosis.

 

[lisah0711]

Welcome welcome!! Your emotional eating isn't an excuse, it's a reason - and you're doing great identifying the reason for your eating!! Now you can figure out other things to do when you get sad. I would be bummed too - that's tough having your dh gone so long! Also want to say don't push it with exercise, take it slow, maybe start with some walking (I say this because I have repeatedly overdone it and injured myself! ) One final thing...check out the weekly COWs, they will help you focus. I made a list last week of what I need to do to refocus myself and then noticed Donac had already done that, they were all on the COW!

Lisa - the fatsecret.com - the iPhone kind of switches to camera and has a red line across it that you make sure goes across the bar code and then it scans it that way - very cool!

Mikamah, Lisa, 3Tinks, JenA and pjilla and everyone else...thanks for the advice & encouragement on the c25k! My thighs are sore today but my shins don't hurt - I'm happily surprised about that! I am NOT thinking about tomorrow or how tough it might be and I am also NOT doing a tough workout today...I will just make sure to get my steps in throughout the day.

Maiziezoe - I wish you got your bodybugg - I would love to know what your daily calorie burn is!! (nosy aren't I? ) Yesterday was my highest ever at 3100 - cleaned upstairs and did the c25k.

Corrinak - that's a great picture!!! You look FABULOUS!!!

Great job on the C25K, jennz! I think that you are smart to let your body recover between runs. You'll be a runner in no time.

Thanks for telling me about how to scan the bar code, too. That could save me some entry time on recording my food. Tell your DH thanks, too.

 

[jenanderson]

Hello Biggest Loser friends!
The half marathon, I was trying to strike a balance between stopping for the photos I wanted and pushing for a PR. I'm pleased to report that I did pretty well with that as I got BOTH. 2:10:20 was my time, more than 3 minutes faster than January, and I have a whole TON of photos. Here is one:

I am so impressed! You look incredible....your time is incredible...and you are one of the big inspirations to me on this board!

Thanks for posting the other one with your 2009 and 2010 photos. It is so important for me to see that right now because I am at a bit of a point where I am struggling. I have to see that with hard work, ups & downs and over time it can happen. After losing my first 20 pounds pretty quickly, it now just feels like I have hit a wall and it is so much harder to keep motivated. Then, I see stories like yours and I know I just have to keep going. Thank you for the constant reminder.

While you were gone, I finished the C25K program and ran a full 7K this weekend in preparation for my 7K on the 20th. I know a while back you posted a site for me to go to find a new running plan...guess what...I can't find it. If you get a chance could you post it for me again? I feel like with the battle that I am having with myself to keep going right now that I need a printed out running plan to hold myself accountable to or that might get to be a challenge for me too.

Thanks and again....incredible!
Jen

 

[heatherlynn444]

Tuesday QOTD: I am WAY more conscience about what I eat and when I eat it. I make an effort to eat healthy food. Also, if I don't get my workouts in I feel like a blob and guilty (in a good way) and it makes me want to workout more!

 

[Graciesmom77]

I started out today pretty well. I had a good breakfast and was pretty motivated. That is until I weighed in. I have a 10 month old daughter and during her pregnancy I was very very sick and lost quite a bit of weight. The day I gave birth to her I weighed 40 pounds less than the day I found out I was pregnant. (trust me, not the way to lose weight) and now in the the last 10 months I gained 33 of that back. I am so mad at myself!

The only thing I can do though is to get my bum in gear!

My hubby is in North Carolina and then in 4 weeks he will be going to South Carolina and the 1st of June he should be home. And her should be home for most of the summer. He has been gone almost the whole pregnancy, the last 9 months and we miss him!!! He is a great supportive man and I can't wait to spend more time with him. Speaking of which.......

I bought my plane tickets and put my deposit down for a trip for just him and I to go to Orlando and visit Universal for the Harry Potter opening! I am SOOOOO excited. I am a huge HP fan and even belong to a all adult HP fan club here in Ohio. (yes, I know I am a dork!) Plus, I get to be with my husband with no one buggin us. No diapers to change, no homework to check, no cheerleading or karate or swimming, no dinners to make, no..... well anything for anyone except us. Selfish... yes. But I don't care! I can't wait!!! We go June 17-20. I want to lose 30 pounds by then. Thats my personal goal. I know 10 of that will be water weight but thats ok, it will still feel amazing.

I hope everyone has a great day and stays strong. Say no to cake!

 

[my3princes]

Tuesday QOTD: Wow, there are so many things that are different. Our kitchen is stock very differently, I wear a size 8 vs a size 20 and I don't mind shopping. I take care of my hair and makeup and actually care what people think. I don't own sweatpant, but now have yogapants. My jeans are stylish and worn with heels instead of oversized t-shirts and sweatshirts. I'm bartending and waitressing again. When I was heavy I didn't want to be seen in public, let alone be out and about everyday. I do things with my kids, I got my lifeguard certification again. I get compliments from strangers. My husband made these changes with me and he looks amazing and after 23 years together we are still totally madly in love and in lust for each other. What more can I say? There are no negatives.

 

[pjlla]

Hello Biggest Loser friends!

I am back from Florida, have caught up the QOTD archive (thanks so much to Lisa for covering & bumping the thread as well!) and....well, that's about it.

I had a great trip, a great race and a great time with the WISH team. Well, it was mostly a great trip - the first few days it seemed like everything was going just slightly wrong. The races were really great - I did both the 5K and Half marathon and was amazed by the number of characters on the course. I was trying to take it easy on the 5K, and stopped for a photo with every character. The half marathon, I was trying to strike a balance between stopping for the photos I wanted and pushing for a PR. I'm pleased to report that I did pretty well with that as I got BOTH. 2:10:20 was my time, more than 3 minutes faster than January, and I have a whole TON of photos. Here is one:


Food is always challenging on these race weekends. I did OK, I think, but stopped counting on....Saturday, I guess. I just ate to hunger, chose mostly the healthiest things I could and tried not to go crazy. I always have a few pounds on the scale after a trip like this - partly from the endurance event - I think bodies hold onto a few pounds of water to help with the repairs and strengthening that needs to be done. There's also the additional salt, and some additional calories as well.

Which brings me to the questions of the days (I was behind before I left!!):

First order of business..... WOOHOO!! Way to go on the runs this weekend! I an super impressed and proud of you.

Second order of business.... MORE PICTURES PLEASE!! I love character pictures.

It sounds like you had a terrific weekend.... it is enough to inspire me to keep running so I have a good excuse to make a trip to Disney next year!!

I finally started SparkPeople. I love the "Lose it!" app on my iPhone but was curious about the fuss about SP and then saw there's an app for it as well. I think I'm going to do both for the next week just to see how I do with the new one before giving up on the old. I really like all the bells and whistles that go along with the SparkPeople website and app. I'm surprisingly motivated by little "awards". I think that's one of the big reasons I did well on Weight Watchers ten years ago. The instructor at the time was not only a great and motivating speaker, but she passed out all sorts of little stickers as prizes. And boy did I like to get those stickers!

I'm laughing about what you said about the stickers. My last WW leader was big on stickers too and I LOVED to earn them. This was many years ago when DS was little and used to come to the meetings with me. After the meeting, if he was well behaved, my leader would give him a handful of stickers (sneakers and stars). I used to tell him that Mom had to work hard ALL WEEK to earn those stickers.... and he only had to be good for an hour! He used to put them on the car window... by the time we traded the car the window was almost full!

I know I"m too late for yesterday's kashi bar, but I hope you ate it. I'm a firm believer in using the weekly 35, and activity points as well if you need them. In my many years of ww experience, I have found my losses to be better when I ate all the 35, without going over, as opposed to not eating them. Same with the activity points, if I earned them, I usually ate them, and when I was really on the program, I would lose consistently as long as I stayed with in my points, including the flex and aps. I know everyone is different, and as you are lower and closer to goal, you may not be able to us as many. Hope you had a good afternoon.

funny the black eyes!! Congrat on completing your first day!! That is awesome!! I took advil the first couple times too, and was achey afterwards too, kind of general muscle aches, not one area in specific. My knees don't hurt really during the jogs, but feel tender afterwards. Nice job on the run!!!

Wow, that sounds really fast!! Nice job Pamela!!

Off to work. Have a great day all!!

I agree with using the Flex points... but use them carefully. I had gotten in the habit of saving them all for a "splurge day" and using them all at once.... but I got to be of the mindset that I could go CRAZY on that day and I'm SURE that I frequently used waaaaaay more than 35 points. I am finding I need to change that habit and reel myself back in to using JUST the 35 points.... and maybe even spreading them out a bit more.

Thanks for the kind words about the run. I am really encouraged that I am continuing to improve my times. I still don't love the running, but I love the feeling I have when I am done!

Hi guys,

My name is Michelle and I am from Columbus, Ohio. I just found this thread and I couldn't wait to join. I have struggled with weight my whole life and I am bound and determined to win this battle. I have 3 beautiful daughters and I want them growing up in a healthy home.

You guys are all so inspiring! I am so tired all the time that I can't make myself exercise, even though I know it will give me energy and make me feel better. I am going to try and make myself do atleast something tomorrow!

My husband has a weird job that takes him out of state for months at a time. He was just in Florida for 8 months, was home for 3 weeks and now is gone again until June. Though I know its an excuse, I am an emotional eater and I get bummed about missing him and eat to soothe myself. Crazy huh!?!? I know it will make me feel worse in the end, but I do it anyway.


I am really excited about this biggest losers challenge, even though I am coming in so late, and can't wait to join you guys in losing! DISers are so awesome!

Welcome aboard! This is the BEST group of (mostly) ladies. They are helpful and supportive and uplifting and funny. I can't tell you how much they have helped me over the past year or so (we tend to have a core group of the same folks for a long time). You will love it here!

I can sympathize with the DH being gone. Mine has had assignments over the years that have taken him away for periods of time (but not nearly as long as yours!).... and I get sick of being the "everything" adult around the house.... housework, yard work, snowblowing, kid-taxiing, etc.

Morning Everyone! Yesterday was a very busy day for me so I didn't even get a chance to come and post. I did try to read some posts for a bit though. This week is going to be a very crazy one and I am hoping I can stay on track as I have report cards due by Thursday and conferences on Friday. It is always a very stressful time for me and is normally dealt with by eating an excessive amount of food. I am hoping that I have learned skills to not allow that to happen this week.

Yesterday was my day off from running but I did do 2 miles of walking on the TM with an incline and lifted my 3 pound weights the entire time. Today is a running day and I am hoping that it is not raining tonight because I want to run outside - not on the TM.

I am not entirely happy with how things are going with my weight loss right now. I feel like I am really fighting with myself every single minute to not over eat. I can't put my finger on what it is really but I know I have to figure it out because I have actually now seen a .5 gain on the scale this morning. I know that it not that much but it does make me feel a bit worried because I don't feel like my head is really in the game right now. I am logging everything and doing my exercising but the food part of it is a battle. Somehow I went from being satisfied with my WW points to feeling like I needed my daily points, my flex points and some or all of my activity points. I am not really going over that but using them all has caused a stall and even now this gain. Everyday I find myself telling myself that today will be the day I change up my attitude and everyday I eat more than I wanted to. So...today I am going to battle myself again and say that I am going to stay within my daily points range and not allow myself to give into the temptation of the extra points.


3/8 Monday QOTD: What is one thing you do for yourself when you want to feel better physically that does not involve weight loss/excersize?
For me it is a hair cut and color. I love when my hair is freshly cut and it does exactly what I want it to do. I also love when all the highlights and coloring is the color I want and you don't see all the dark roots!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.
The biggest one is I do not sit on the couch all the time any more. I was truly a couch potato before all this started. I know am up and exercising so much more. Also, before the BL challenge, my blood sugar levels were very high and I needed my insulin. I am back down to a lower weight and with the exercise I don't need the insulin any more. Finally, I was so unhappy with what I saw when I looked in the mirror. Now I look in the mirror and I am happy with what I see. I know there are still improvements to be made but when I can see the changes that have already occurred, I feel really good.

Alright, have to get ready for school. Have a great day everyone!
Jen

Just want to tell you... GREAT JOB eliminating the insulin! That is a HUGE healthy move!

Wow- thanks so much for that compliment. It was a very fun trip and I had so much fun in both races. It is funny how I look at these pictures and still see the remains of my former self, but that you can look at them and see...just someone who might never have been where I've been.

I am reading this book called "Switch" about how to change when change is hard, and this quote stuck with me from the plane ride yesterday. They are talking about how to keep a change going when the journey is long and difficult. They talked about another type of journey: how to train a monkey to ride a skateboard - the answer does not involve punishment but instead reward the monkey with mango for each little step, like Mango for every time it does not freak out when the board is in the cage, then Mango for each time it touches the board. Mango for each time sitting on the board etc. And they said "Hundreds of sessions later, you have a mango-bloated monkey ready to skate a half-pipe" And later on they said "A long journey requires lots of mango." I think this easily applies to the changes we are making and shows why it makes sense to give yourself small rewards along the way. Maybe not all mango, but...well, whatever floats your boat, I guess!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

A practical one -It used to be that all the time was a good time for eating, especially at Disney, and I'd go to buffets and "get my money's worth." Now, I usually only eat when I'm hungry and stop when I'm full, especially while travelling. I also pack along plenty of healthy food from home for the airport/plane ride and for while I'm there, too.

These threads move fast, so for those that might have missed the photos before, I'm going to show some differences:

January 2009 WDW Half Marathon - I had just joined BL challenge and started counting points again a few weeks prior:

March 2010 - Disney's Princess Half Marathon - This is me in the exact same shirt in pretty close to the exact same spot, but even I can see that I'm barely recognizable as the same person:

One of the biggest changes is that I don't actually wince a little inside when I get my picture taken at this point. And I don't wince when I look at them either. And I don't crop them down to above that belly-bulge either. It probably helps that I wasn't wearing a belt this year, but you know what I mean. It's great to feel the confidence in my appearance to just be able to go and enjoy and take lots of pictures, too.

In other news, my weight this morning exactly matches my weight when I left last Friday! I usually expect to see a bump after a big event and more relaxed food weekend, but apparently, I did a good job of picking and choosing my treats. One of the highlights of the weekend was having a celebratory post-race Welsh Dragon!

So here's the big deal change that has made this possible: Mind you, that before picture shows a woman who had tried and stopped Weight Watchers (and a couple of other weight loss methods, too) at least 8 times over the previous 10 years, including while I was running. The difference between the 2009 attempt and all those other times: The DISboards Biggest Loser Challenge.

I LOVE these pictures. And I must say, DH was looking over my shoulder and he couldn't believe that both pictures were of the same person! He was impressed (and maybe inspired???... we can only hope!). And your weight stayed the same... how impressed am I!! And right back to you!

I started out today pretty well. I had a good breakfast and was pretty motivated. That is until I weighed in. I have a 10 month old daughter and during her pregnancy I was very very sick and lost quite a bit of weight. The day I gave birth to her I weighed 40 pounds less than the day I found out I was pregnant. (trust me, not the way to lose weight) and now in the the last 10 months I gained 33 of that back. I am so mad at myself!

The only thing I can do though is to get my bum in gear!

My hubby is in North Carolina and then in 4 weeks he will be going to South Carolina and the 1st of June he should be home. And her should be home for most of the summer. He has been gone almost the whole pregnancy, the last 9 months and we miss him!!! He is a great supportive man and I can't wait to spend more time with him. Speaking of which.......

I bought my plane tickets and put my deposit down for a trip for just him and I to go to Orlando and visit Universal for the Harry Potter opening! I am SOOOOO excited. I am a huge HP fan and even belong to a all adult HP fan club here in Ohio. (yes, I know I am a dork!) Plus, I get to be with my husband with no one buggin us. No diapers to change, no homework to check, no cheerleading or karate or swimming, no dinners to make, no..... well anything for anyone except us. Selfish... yes. But I don't care! I can't wait!!! We go June 17-20. I want to lose 30 pounds by then. Thats my personal goal. I know 10 of that will be water weight but thats ok, it will still feel amazing.

I hope everyone has a great day and stays strong. Say no to cake!

I'm envious of your vacation coming up! I honestly have no interest in Universal or Harry Potter or even having a "DH and I" only vacation.... but I want a vacation!! I love traveling and trip planning and I need a trip to plan RIGHT NOW!! This should be a big incentive to keep you on plan!! And NO 10 pounds will NOT be water weight... it will be real fat pounds. Maybe 1-3 could be fluid... but not 10! Take credit for every pound lost!


Morning all! I only have a minute to finish up here. My neighbor called and asked if I would like to walk. I was saving my exercise time for the Y tonight, but it will be nice to have a walk outside and get caught up with her, so I am off.

I'll update my WISH journal after lunch.................P

 

[Worfiedoodles]

I'll add my back to Corinna! You look fabulous and even more importantly you feel fabulous, and it shows!

I didn't eat the Kashi bar -- and I regret it. I made a calculated error. I got so hungry before dinner, I ended up eating popcorn and 3 chocolate chip cookies Next time I will eat the Kashi bar, and not get too hungry!

Tuesday QOTD: Differences in my pre BL life and current

Eating more organically -- I've switched over to eating as much as I can find (and enjoy) organic. Most of the food just tastes better to me, and it would not have occurred to me there was a big difference until I read Jillian's Master Your Metabolism.

I'm more faithful with my exercise -- I'm much less likely to skip shorter runs or strength workouts during the week.

I go to bed at 9:30 most nights. I have to in order to get up at 4:30! This has been a blessing in multiple ways. I Tivo anything I really want to see, and then I can watch it much faster by ffwding through the commercials. Getting up at 4:30 is great for me -- I'm all worked out before the day begins, and I have time to think through issues while I'm on the TM. I don't manage it every day (today would be a miss), but I'm really happy when I do.

I'm pretty sure there's a Kashi bar in my future this afternoon -- and I'm not going to feel guilty if I eat it! I tend to eat some of the 35 weekly points and never touch the exercise points. I get a lot of exercise points (my week started Friday and I'm already at 26) -- and I think if I ate them all I would not lose.

Maria

 

[maiziezoe]

It's so fun to read your enthusiastic posts! Congratulations on doing so well! Are you going to buy another new pair of jeans or will you wait a certain number of pounds first?

Well, I just bought a pair of Lucky Brand jeans. They were way more than I would normally spend on a pair of jeans, but I deserve it. I bought them a size smaller than I wear now but they are capri's so I won't be able to wear them for a while. By the time the weather warms up to capri weather, I will fit into them!

Hi everyone,
I resisted the GS cookies this year by donating the ones we bought. I have sat down (in the past) and eaten a whole box. Some things I just can't have in the house. I saw them selling some in the lobby at the grocery store and I walked the other way. I totally empathize with anyone with cookies in the house.

I have decided I can't do lunges. We did a lot of lunges in strength class today and my knee is killing me. She said I was doing them right, and some people just can't do them because of their knees. She gave me some ideas of other stuff to try instead. The squats don't bother me, but the lunges, oh my.

Have a nice evening everyone!

I have bad knees too (13 years of dance)... I can do lunges but not squats. LOL

Hi guys,

My name is Michelle and I am from Columbus, Ohio. I just found this thread and I couldn't wait to join. I have struggled with weight my whole life and I am bound and determined to win this battle. I have 3 beautiful daughters and I want them growing up in a healthy home.

You guys are all so inspiring! I am so tired all the time that I can't make myself exercise, even though I know it will give me energy and make me feel better. I am going to try and make myself do atleast something tomorrow!

My husband has a weird job that takes him out of state for months at a time. He was just in Florida for 8 months, was home for 3 weeks and now is gone again until June. Though I know its an excuse, I am an emotional eater and I get bummed about missing him and eat to soothe myself. Crazy huh!?!? I know it will make me feel worse in the end, but I do it anyway.


I am really excited about this biggest losers challenge, even though I am coming in so late, and can't wait to join you guys in losing! DISers are so awesome!

Welcome Michelle!!! You are going to love it here!!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

For me, I used to watch a LOT more TV! Now I barely watch any and the things I do record usually wait at least a week if not longer to be watched!

My family eats meals together a lot more frequently. My husband and I sit down and plan meals together. We do some favorites and some new ones every few weeks and we write down which days we will have them so we are sure to have healthy dates planned. We also write on the recipe the day we first tried it and what we thought! It's fun to look back.

I wear make-up more often. I think the fact that I feel better about myself and the fact that I am making an effort to get my body to look better makes me want to do a little more with the rest of the image as well.

Have a great day all and please drink your water!

Oh, and I booked and paid deposit on my 2011 Disney Dream cruise today!

SarahMay

I'm jealous! I want to see the Dream!!

Wow- thanks so much for that compliment. It was a very fun trip and I had so much fun in both races. It is funny how I look at these pictures and still see the remains of my former self, but that you can look at them and see...just someone who might never have been where I've been.

I am reading this book called "Switch" about how to change when change is hard, and this quote stuck with me from the plane ride yesterday. They are talking about how to keep a change going when the journey is long and difficult. They talked about another type of journey: how to train a monkey to ride a skateboard - the answer does not involve punishment but instead reward the monkey with mango for each little step, like Mango for every time it does not freak out when the board is in the cage, then Mango for each time it touches the board. Mango for each time sitting on the board etc. And they said "Hundreds of sessions later, you have a mango-bloated monkey ready to skate a half-pipe" And later on they said "A long journey requires lots of mango." I think this easily applies to the changes we are making and shows why it makes sense to give yourself small rewards along the way. Maybe not all mango, but...well, whatever floats your boat, I guess!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

A practical one -It used to be that all the time was a good time for eating, especially at Disney, and I'd go to buffets and "get my money's worth." Now, I usually only eat when I'm hungry and stop when I'm full, especially while travelling. I also pack along plenty of healthy food from home for the airport/plane ride and for while I'm there, too.

These threads move fast, so for those that might have missed the photos before, I'm going to show some differences:

January 2009 WDW Half Marathon - I had just joined BL challenge and started counting points again a few weeks prior:

March 2010 - Disney's Princess Half Marathon - This is me in the exact same shirt in pretty close to the exact same spot, but even I can see that I'm barely recognizable as the same person:

One of the biggest changes is that I don't actually wince a little inside when I get my picture taken at this point. And I don't wince when I look at them either. And I don't crop them down to above that belly-bulge either. It probably helps that I wasn't wearing a belt this year, but you know what I mean. It's great to feel the confidence in my appearance to just be able to go and enjoy and take lots of pictures, too.

In other news, my weight this morning exactly matches my weight when I left last Friday! I usually expect to see a bump after a big event and more relaxed food weekend, but apparently, I did a good job of picking and choosing my treats. One of the highlights of the weekend was having a celebratory post-race Welsh Dragon!

So here's the big deal change that has made this possible: Mind you, that before picture shows a woman who had tried and stopped Weight Watchers (and a couple of other weight loss methods, too) at least 8 times over the previous 10 years, including while I was running. The difference between the 2009 attempt and all those other times: The DISboards Biggest Loser Challenge.

Corrina, I want to be you when I grow up (even though I am probably older than you. ) You are such an inspiration!

Welcome welcome!! Your emotional eating isn't an excuse, it's a reason - and you're doing great identifying the reason for your eating!! Now you can figure out other things to do when you get sad. I would be bummed too - that's tough having your dh gone so long! Also want to say don't push it with exercise, take it slow, maybe start with some walking (I say this because I have repeatedly overdone it and injured myself! ) One final thing...check out the weekly COWs, they will help you focus. I made a list last week of what I need to do to refocus myself and then noticed Donac had already done that, they were all on the COW!

Lisa - the fatsecret.com - the iPhone kind of switches to camera and has a red line across it that you make sure goes across the bar code and then it scans it that way - very cool!

Mikamah, Lisa, 3Tinks, JenA and pjilla and everyone else...thanks for the advice & encouragement on the c25k! My thighs are sore today but my shins don't hurt - I'm happily surprised about that! I am NOT thinking about tomorrow or how tough it might be and I am also NOT doing a tough workout today...I will just make sure to get my steps in throughout the day.

Maiziezoe - I wish you got your bodybugg - I would love to know what your daily calorie burn is!! (nosy aren't I? ) Yesterday was my highest ever at 3100 - cleaned upstairs and did the c25k.

Corrinak - that's a great picture!!! You look FABULOUS!!!

I wonder if there is another bodybugg type thing I can buy until I get a bodybugg that will track my daily calorie burn.

Jenn ~ I keep forgetting to ask you... are you going to be in Chicago on 3/27? There is a Dis Meet at Brookfield Zoo that day.

 

[maiziezoe]

Goooooooooooooood Afternoon!

I have a headache. Blah.

Yesterday I did C25K W1D1 with my DD. She was not happy about it but I told her if she did the training with me, she could ask her BFF to walk with us after we were done with the running part. So we did the run and grabbed her friend and walked an extra 3 miles. I think my total number of miles yesterday was 10. I actually walked more miles yesterday than I drove in my car all of last week. I have today off from C25K so I did 60 minutes of step and after a while (if my headache goes away) I am going to go for a walk outside. It's supposed to be 49 degrees today!! I might even wear shorts!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

Well, I cannot even believe I am going to admit this... but my house is messier. LOL I spend more time working out and getting on the floor to play with my kids, so I have been letting the house slip a little... and you know what... Idon'tevencare.

My closet is cleaner. I got rid of all those boxy big girl clothes that were taking up so much room.

I dress nicer. No more square, baggy clothes for me. I wear stuff that fits. Instead of dressing like a chubby girl... I dress how I used to dress... like a tomboy and I love it.

I read every single label of every single thing I purchase at the grocery store. I only buy healthful things. I only cook healthful meals. I only eat food that have the words "reduced" and "free" (as in fat free).

I no longer use Lupus as an excuse!!!!

 

[pjlla]

I didn't eat the Kashi bar -- and I regret it. I made a calculated error. I got so hungry before dinner, I ended up eating popcorn and 3 chocolate chip cookies Next time I will eat the Kashi bar, and not get too hungry!

Tuesday QOTD: Differences in my pre BL life and current

Eating more organically -- I've switched over to eating as much as I can find (and enjoy) organic. Most of the food just tastes better to me, and it would not have occurred to me there was a big difference until I read Jillian's Master Your Metabolism.

I'm more faithful with my exercise -- I'm much less likely to skip shorter runs or strength workouts during the week.

I go to bed at 9:30 most nights. I have to in order to get up at 4:30! This has been a blessing in multiple ways. I Tivo anything I really want to see, and then I can watch it much faster by ffwding through the commercials. Getting up at 4:30 is great for me -- I'm all worked out before the day begins, and I have time to think through issues while I'm on the TM. I don't manage it every day (today would be a miss), but I'm really happy when I do.

I'm pretty sure there's a Kashi bar in my future this afternoon -- and I'm not going to feel guilty if I eat it! I tend to eat some of the 35 weekly points and never touch the exercise points. I get a lot of exercise points (my week started Friday and I'm already at 26) -- and I think if I ate them all I would not lose.

Maria

Sorry to hear about the mini-binge. I think I've done the same thing before... trying to save points/calories and end up so hungry I eat more than I would have in the first place. Some times the piece of fruit or snack bar at 2pm is a better a better choice than trying to to hold off til dinner and ending up with a mini-binge at 4pm while making dinner. But it is hard to know.

I'm impressed with the 4:30 am workouts. I was getting up early (4:30 T and Th and 5:30 M,W, F) when I was working more steadily and DD was getting up for HS swim... but work has dropped off and HS swim has ended, so I am sleeping in a bit and doing most of my workouts in the evening, when DD goes to club swim. I love getting the workouts done and out of the way early, but sleeping until 6 am (or later) is great!

Goooooooooooooood Afternoon!

I have a headache. Blah.

Yesterday I did C25K W1D1 with my DD. She was not happy about it but I told her if she did the training with me, she could ask her BFF to walk with us after we were done with the running part. So we did the run and grabbed her friend and walked an extra 3 miles. I think my total number of miles yesterday was 10. I actually walked more miles yesterday than I drove in my car all of last week. I have today off from C25K so I did 60 minutes of step and after a while (if my headache goes away) I am going to go for a walk outside. It's supposed to be 49 degrees today!! I might even wear shorts!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

Well, I cannot even believe I am going to admit this... but my house is messier. LOL I spend more time working out and getting on the floor to play with my kids, so I have been letting the house slip a little... and you know what... Idon'tevencare.

My closet is cleaner. I got rid of all those boxy big girl clothes that were taking up so much room.

I dress nicer. No more square, baggy clothes for me. I wear stuff that fits. Instead of dressing like a chubby girl... I dress how I used to dress... like a tomboy and I love it.

I read every single label of every single thing I purchase at the grocery store. I only buy healthful things. I only cook healthful meals. I only eat food that have the words "reduced" and "free" (as in fat free).

I no longer use Lupus as an excuse!!!!

Sorry about the headache. It must be the week for them, as I was similarly inflicted this past Sunday.

WTG on the C25K! And I love to hear about how you are dressing better. That is one significant change I have made over these past two years. I dress much less dumpy and frumpy and much more fashionable... and with clothes that fit much better! And nice work becoming a certified label reader!


Good afternoon all! I had a nice long walk with my neighbor today.. 100 minutes. So I can relax a bit before my circuit training class tonight. I won't have to hit the TC and the TM and the elliptical at the Y.... so what will I do with myself??

Baked vegetable ziti for dinner for the family. I made my own little casserole dish with high fiber pasta and 1 oz. (measured) of mozzarella and extra veggies. Fruit salad for the side... I didn't see any need for any other side, since there is protein (cheese), starch (pasta) and veggies all in one dish!

Tuesday's QOTD: Name some differences in your life pre BL Challenge and current.

Well... not so much "pre BL challenge" but pre-weight loss (which started for me, this time, 01/02/2008). Like others have mentioned, I dress better.

I was always a label reader, but now I really analyze every ingredient. And I've always been a reasonably healthy eater, despite OVER-eating for many years. But I've truly bumped it up a notch or two.... I average probably 6 servings of vegetables a day, 2-3 servings of fruit, and 2 whole grain servings.

Probably the biggest change has been the addition of REGULAR exercise. I won't say I LOVE exercising, but it has become a regular habit and I truly feel guilty if I don't exercise almost every day. I will let other things go that I wouldn't have in the..... housework, laundry, scrapbooking... to make sure I fit in exercise. It is definitely near the top of my priority list most days because I have learned how ESSENTIAL it is to my continued good health and weight loss.

I haven't updated my WISH journal yet today, so I need to go do that!....P

 

[princessbride6205]

I'm back from my long weekend in WDW for the Princess half. It was amazing! I'm so glad that I went, had a great race, so much fun. I'll write up more tonight along with pictures.

I was always a label reader, but now I really analyze every ingredient. And I've always been a reasonably healthy eater, despite OVER-eating for many years. But I've truly bumped it up a notch or two.... I average probably 6 servings of vegetables a day, 2-3 servings of fruit, and 2 whole grain servings.

How?! I don't really like vegetables unless I take the time to really do something special with preparing them (which doesn't fit into my quick throw things together life). I would love to hear your tips of how you've incorporated so many veggies!

Have to get back to work (it's crazy here!), so I don't have time to catch up on everyone and QOTDs. I'll be on later!