Biggest Loser alumni holiday chat! (All are welcome!)

[donac]

Hello everyone! I don't know if you noticed but I went missing these last few months. I think the last time I talked to you all was back in September. I purposely left the challenge this semester because I knew what a tough semester it would be as I took my senior thesis class. Well the semester is over and I can reflect on just how far off the wagon I fell.

I'm afraid to get on a scale. I know it's bad. This semester was awful in terms of having time to do anything or eat right so I feel like all the hard work I put in this past year was wasted. I am ready to start over but I feel like I don't even know how. Step one is to start at the gym I think. Over winter break I plan on really taking advantage of the time I have to go running. Starting tomorrow.

I hope to stick around this time and look forward to chatting with you all again and hopefully getting some motivation!

Welcome back. YOu can only take it one step at a time. Lisa's quote from yesterday says it all. My eating has been awful the last couple of weeks but I decided to do a couple of things each day to get it together. How did you do with your thesis? I hope by the time ds has to do his master's research paper he has moved out so I don't have to sit and worry about him getting it done. He is a procrastinator.

Pamela How are you feeling? YOu sound lousy yesterday. Hopefully it will be a short illness.

Hi to everyone else.

Only three and a half more days of school and mostly tests tomorrow and Thursday.

Have a happy and healthy day

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

Pamela, hope that you are feeling better today. I'm sorry that the bug has you down. Rest and take care of yourself. All your other tasks will be there still.

Nice to see you, Trina! Sounds like busy times for you but you are in the home stretch, baby, you can do it! Don't look back, just make a plan and move forward.

Only three and a half more days of school and mostly tests tomorrow and Thursday.

Have a happy and healthy day

You, too, Dona! It's nice to know the teachers are counting down the days to vacation just like the students!

I have 4 Christmas cards left to do today. They are the ones that need longer notes in them. I'll find time to get those done today. Then I can sit down with DH and do some menu planning for the week-end. I'm going to keep my activity minutes up and make sure I manage to maintain. I cannot afford any kind of gain this close to the Donald. And I still have 4 pounds to lose this month for my monthly challenge. I think I am going to like our new format because it really helps you stay in the NOW.

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

Hey Trina! Glad you are back!
Don't worry about your fitness right now. You knew you were up against a tough semester and you did the right thing. I think the fact that you acknowledge that you weren't focused on fitness is a good thing, because it shows that it was still in the back of your mind.
Don't be afraid of the scale, own it, acknowledge it and revisit your posts from when you were first starting on your BL journey. The great thing is you've followed the path before so it's already cleared, you don't have to cut a new path. And since you have muscle memory your body will be ready when your mind kicks it into high gear.

 

[jillbur]

Jill--I say go visit your family. I know it is crazy at your house, but it might be more relaxing to be around people that you love than to catch up on all the stuff.

**
I did my last really long run before the Mickey in January. It was tough. I feel great today, so I did a good job with stretching before hand and watching the pace. So that is awesome. But the weather was tough. 45 and rainy. We were supposed to only have a few passing showers but it rained on and off from mile 7 on, and continuously from mile 14 on. We wanted to go 23 miles, but only did 21 because we were freezing!

I hope everyone has a great Sunday!

Thanks for the advice. I did go visit with my family and had a great time. I guess house work and baking will be my task for today!

Sorry the weather didn't cooperate with you, but congrats on the run! It's so exciting!

Jill, so nice to see you! I thought of you, too, Friday. We have lots of folks who work at schools on our thread. I'm with Rose and say go have some fun -- all the tasks will be there when you return. Unless the laundry fairy pays you a visit.

What is this "laundry fairy" you speak of? I had a great time with my family and am planning a laundry/cleaning/baking day today after work. It's never ending!

I am pretty sick this morning...throat is on fire, nose is stuffy, head is achy. I had a low grade fever last night, so obviously I am fighting something hard. I do NOT have time to be sick! I am not working today, so I will take the opportunity to rest and heal....and then wrap some gifts!

What is it about being sick that makes to want to eat carbs, carbs, and more carbs!? Breakfast was a toasted low carb sandwich roll with a bit of Sun nut butter. Coffee feels like it is scorching my throat all the way down, but tastes good.

Exercise will NOT be happening today! Head is absolutely pounding and I can't imagine running right now!

I will find a bit of inspiration to share later, to help keep us all on track this last week before the holidays! Off to cough and blow my nose .....P

Hope you are feeling better! Everytime I am sick I crave carbs, too. Especially bagels. It must be what our body needs.

I won tickets from my Kroc community center for a Christmas show yesterday afternoon. DS went with me, even though he was a bit frantic about the homework he needed to do when he got home -- and had to endure a lecture poor time management and the perils of waiting until the last minute. It was a great show with 135 performers, 400 costumes, a real horse for the sleigh, sheep and a donkey for the nativity. It is produced by someone local who also produces shows on Broadway. And DS gets choir credit for attending!

Sounds like a fun time!

Hello everyone! I don't know if you noticed but I went missing these last few months. I think the last time I talked to you all was back in September. I purposely left the challenge this semester because I knew what a tough semester it would be as I took my senior thesis class. Well the semester is over and I can reflect on just how far off the wagon I fell.

I'm afraid to get on a scale. I know it's bad. This semester was awful in terms of having time to do anything or eat right so I feel like all the hard work I put in this past year was wasted. I am ready to start over but I feel like I don't even know how. Step one is to start at the gym I think. Over winter break I plan on really taking advantage of the time I have to go running. Starting tomorrow.

I hope to stick around this time and look forward to chatting with you all again and hopefully getting some motivation!

Welcome back! Congrats on tackling such a hard semester. I don't really have any sound advice except to make a plan. Maybe plan some meals and time to exercise and take your time. Before you know it, you will be back on track!

Only three and a half more days of school and mostly tests tomorrow and Thursday.

Have a happy and healthy day

I tell my students that teachers need these breaks just as much or more than they do . We finish Friday with an early dismissal, and it's mainly tests today and tomorrow. Friday will be a relaxing, fun day. And, a lot of students are already telling me tha they aren't coming! But, I can't believe I have to start thinking about lesson plans for after break! Ugh.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, DH was sick Monday night and yesterday so I didn't make it to the gym. I did get my dog out for a quick run yesterday. It was my first run since Thanksgiving We only did 2.5 miles and my poor dog gave me the most pathetic look when we were back in front of our house. She wanted to keep going, but with DH sleeping, I didn't want to leave the kids for too long. I really love running. I just wish I could motivate myself more during winter.

Today's plan is to get some cleaning, laundry, and baking done after work. If it's not raining when I get home, I may try for another run with the dog. She's starting to look a little "tubby" as we call it. If it is raining, I think I'll try for a yoga dvd~that is if my kids will be quiet enough for me to do it!

DH and I decided that we are going to shoot for a Disney vacation in 2013. Yay! I really want to go in December, but it's nearly impossible as a teacher. There is no way I am going Christmas week. So, I think we have to go in June Anyone ever go in June? How hot is it? I'm guessing it's like boiling water lol. We also may have to stay off site Even the value resorts are pretty pricey and I looked at last year's discount and it was a pathetic room rate %. So, if it's the only way to get to WDW, I will take a 3 bedroom condo off site for $500 less tha POP. Has anyone ever stayed off site? Any good recommendations? DH thinks it will be better to have extra space since we will be spending more time at the condo during the hottest part of the days. And, we will have a washer & dryer. Plus, that $500 saving will pay for 2 airfares so we won't have to drive

Ok, now that I rambled on, I better run. Kids will be attacking me in 10 minutes! Have a great day!

Jill

 

[glss1/2fll]

Jill, good job on the run. Sorry, I've never stayed offsite or been in June. We usually go in August, and yes, it is hotter than blue blazes then. But school/sports-wise that's what works for our family. We are commando vacationers so don't spend a lot of time at the hotel. Alas, those days are over as now we are parents of a college kid. It's staycations and camping for the next several years!

Already gone on two 3 mile walks this morning. I'm tuckered! DS2 will finish basketball practice within the next hour and then DS1 and I are going to go to Ikea. A girlfriend is going with us and another girlfriend couldn't make it but gave me her list! Maybe we'll have meatballs for dinner! I had planned vegetarian shepherd pie (so yummy) for last week and still haven't made it because I'm just lazy. Maybe tomorrow! Except tomorrow is an out of town basketball game. sometime it'll get made

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

Looks like Christmas break is starting soon for most of us. Yay!

Jill, glad that you had a great time with your family. Sorry the laundry fairy didn't pay you a visit -- I've never seen her either but I always hope if I keep believing she will show up one day . . .

I have never stayed offsite at WDW but you might want to check into the hotels around DTD. Also, I think that Dreams Unlimited (the travel agency that runs the disboards) has some condos for rent. I would probably feel more comfortable renting from them since I feel that I "know" them and know they have good customer service. Lots of time to plan!

Linda, good job on the multiple runs this week. Thanks for keeping track of us all on the exercise thread.

Lots of food and partying going on in the next few days. Be mindful of what you are doing and be prepared to get right back on the wagon again, multiple times a day if needed, but most of all enjoy yourselves, your families and have a good time! This healthy lifestyle thing will be with us always so make it work for you!

 

[pjlla]

Hello everyone! I don't know if you noticed but I went missing these last few months. I think the last time I talked to you all was back in September. I purposely left the challenge this semester because I knew what a tough semester it would be as I took my senior thesis class. Well the semester is over and I can reflect on just how far off the wagon I fell.

I'm afraid to get on a scale. I know it's bad. This semester was awful in terms of having time to do anything or eat right so I feel like all the hard work I put in this past year was wasted. I am ready to start over but I feel like I don't even know how. Step one is to start at the gym I think. Over winter break I plan on really taking advantage of the time I have to go running. Starting tomorrow.

I hope to stick around this time and look forward to chatting with you all again and hopefully getting some motivation!

We did miss you! Glad you were able to finish up your classes. I suggest you get on that scale, face the music, and start fresh!! There is NO time like the present for a fresh start!

Welcome back. YOu can only take it one step at a time. Lisa's quote from yesterday says it all. My eating has been awful the last couple of weeks but I decided to do a couple of things each day to get it together. How did you do with your thesis? I hope by the time ds has to do his master's research paper he has moved out so I don't have to sit and worry about him getting it done. He is a procrastinator.

Pamela How are you feeling? YOu sound lousy yesterday. Hopefully it will be a short illness.

Hi to everyone else.

Only three and a half more days of school and mostly tests tomorrow and Thursday.

Have a happy and healthy day

Hope your school week ends quickly and painlessly! Are you healing up well from your fall???

Good morning all!

Pamela, hope that you are feeling better today. I'm sorry that the bug has you down. Rest and take care of yourself. All your other tasks will be there still.

I have 4 Christmas cards left to do today. They are the ones that need longer notes in them. I'll find time to get those done today. Then I can sit down with DH and do some menu planning for the week-end. I'm going to keep my activity minutes up and make sure I manage to maintain. I cannot afford any kind of gain this close to the Donald. And I still have 4 pounds to lose this month for my monthly challenge. I think I am going to like our new format because it really helps you stay in the NOW.

Hope you got everything done! Four pounds is tight, but do-able for the remainder of the month, if you are really careful over the holiday.

Thanks for the advice. I did go visit with my family and had a great time. I guess house work and baking will be my task for today!

Hope you are feeling better! Everytime I am sick I crave carbs, too. Especially bagels. It must be what our body needs.

I could have given my left arm for pancakes this morning! Obviously my illness is making me crave carbs like a mad woman! I didn't give in to the pancakes, but had low carb toast with peanut butter.... good enough.


I tell my students that teachers need these breaks just as much or more than they do . We finish Friday with an early dismissal, and it's mainly tests today and tomorrow. Friday will be a relaxing, fun day. And, a lot of students are already telling me that they aren't coming! But, I can't believe I have to start thinking about lesson plans for after break! Ugh.

Enjoy your break!! How sad that so many kids won't be there for the fun.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

So, DH was sick Monday night and yesterday so I didn't make it to the gym. I did get my dog out for a quick run yesterday. It was my first run since Thanksgiving We only did 2.5 miles and my poor dog gave me the most pathetic look when we were back in front of our house. She wanted to keep going, but with DH sleeping, I didn't want to leave the kids for too long. I really love running. I just wish I could motivate myself more during winter.

Good for you! 2.5 is wonderful!

Today's plan is to get some cleaning, laundry, and baking done after work. If it's not raining when I get home, I may try for another run with the dog. She's starting to look a little "tubby" as we call it. If it is raining, I think I'll try for a yoga dvd~that is if my kids will be quiet enough for me to do it!

DH and I decided that we are going to shoot for a Disney vacation in 2013. Yay! I really want to go in December, but it's nearly impossible as a teacher. There is no way I am going Christmas week. So, I think we have to go in June Anyone ever go in June? How hot is it? I'm guessing it's like boiling water lol. We also may have to stay off site Even the value resorts are pretty pricey and I looked at last year's discount and it was a pathetic room rate %. So, if it's the only way to get to WDW, I will take a 3 bedroom condo off site for $500 less tha POP. Has anyone ever stayed off site? Any good recommendations? DH thinks it will be better to have extra space since we will be spending more time at the condo during the hottest part of the days. And, we will have a washer & dryer. Plus, that $500 saving will pay for 2 airfares so we won't have to drive

Ok, now that I rambled on, I better run. Kids will be attacking me in 10 minutes! Have a great day!

Jill

OOhhh..... I love planning Disney trips! I think if you can go early/mid-June, rather than late June, the crowds will be more manageable. And I agree.... as wonderful as the OS hotels are, you can't beat an off-site condo with lots of extras for less $$ !!!

Jill, good job on the run. Sorry, I've never stayed offsite or been in June. We usually go in August, and yes, it is hotter than blue blazes then. But school/sports-wise that's what works for our family. We are commando vacationers so don't spend a lot of time at the hotel. Alas, those days are over as now we are parents of a college kid. It's staycations and camping for the next several years!

Already gone on two 3 mile walks this morning. I'm tuckered! DS2 will finish basketball practice within the next hour and then DS1 and I are going to go to Ikea. A girlfriend is going with us and another girlfriend couldn't make it but gave me her list! Maybe we'll have meatballs for dinner! I had planned vegetarian shepherd pie (so yummy) for last week and still haven't made it because I'm just lazy. Maybe tomorrow! Except tomorrow is an out of town basketball game. sometime it'll get made

What did you get at Ikea? I've always wanted to go to one! Great job on all the mileage!

Good morning all!

Looks like Christmas break is starting soon for most of us. Yay!

Lots of food and partying going on in the next few days. Be mindful of what you are doing and be prepared to get right back on the wagon again, multiple times a day if needed, but most of all enjoy yourselves, your families and have a good time! This healthy lifestyle thing will be with us always so make it work for you!

Thanks for reminding us to "stay the course" with all of these goodies around!

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

Morning friends! I started posting this over an hour ago, but got a call from the school nurse to come pick up my sick DD. Yes.... I was kind enough to share this flu-like bug with my first-born child. She skipped swim last night, voluntarily, because she was so sick. She almost never, ever, ever skips swim due to illness.

I think this bug has settled into a sinus infection, but my doctor's office refuses to call in a prescription without seeing me... I know they need to be careful and responsible.... blah, blah, blah. I am SICK, I know what I have, and I live 45 minutes away from the office!! How about cutting me a break? I'm afraid I got a bit sassy with the nurse and did NOT make an appointment. Not sure what to do now, other than googling "home sinus infection remedies".

I did get up and find enough energy yesterday to wrap some gifts and make a decent dinner for the kids and I. And today I pulled myself together enough to strip my bed and DD's bed and get the sheets into the washer and now dryer. I'll probably be exhausted by the time the beds are remade, but I really wanted to get that germy stuff cleaned!

Still a few $100 shy of completing my gift shopping for DD. One larger gift for her did NOT pan out, so now I am at a loss as to what to buy her with the money. Even if I managed to find the item online, it wouldn't be here in time for the big day. oh well.

Not much of anything pertinent to share here. Haven't been eating badly.... just mostly craving carbs due to the cold. And there isn't much to eat in the house right now because I haven't been to the store.... and nothing tastes too great anyhow. I had canned soup for lunch two days in a row.... and as a rule I don't care much for canned soup, but I was desperate. And they were both , but filled the empty belly well enough. Even my favorite low cal hot drink last night wasn't tasting like much.

No exercise in the past week.... right now, feeling like this, I can't IMAGINE attempting anything other than the basics of self-care and a child-care!

I'll try to pop on again later to see how everyone is doing...................P

 

[trinaweena]

I'm at work and I ate one of the Christmas cookies from the Christmas event. That's ok I tell myself, just stop thinking about eating that second one!

 

[pjlla]

I'm at work and I ate one of the Christmas cookies from the Christmas event. That's ok I tell myself, just stop thinking about eating that second one!

For myself, I find it is easier to not have any because one always leads to two (and sometimes three, four, and five!). But good for you for being able to have JUST ONE!!

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

Morning friends! Happy rainy/snowy/windy Friday to you all! I know that some in this country are having snow today and lots of it. Stay safe! We started here with some snow during the night, but it has changed entirely to rain and wind. Doesn't make for a white Christmas, but I'm not complaining.

I'm already anticipating having some eating struggles this weekend. I've done my "pre-holiday" (usual Friday) weigh-in and it seems like a great time to just commence with the holiday eat-a-thon! But NO!! I need to keep it in control and save the splurging for Monday and Tuesday!! So my GOAL is to do one final weigh-in on Monday morning and be either the same as today or even down just a touch. That idea of hitting the scale on Monday should help keep me from indulging this weekend. Plus I gave DS the remaining Lindt chocolates to throw in his girlfriend's gift, so those won't be here calling to me! I have no parties or events this weekend, no sitting on the pool deck for hours, no traveling.... so NO EXCUSES to overeat this weekend. If I am good, I will end the year at the low end of my maintenance range, and that will make for a VERY happy new year!

As you may be able to tell from my tone, I am feeling somewhat better. Still a bit congested and coffee still doesn't taste right but I am definitely mending. Throat is not sore, head isn't pounding, no more aches or fever.

DH came home early from his business trip yesterday because he said he felt so lousy he wasn't getting anything done and didn't want to expose everyone to the bug, so he was home for the afternoon/night, but he is out of here again, heading North for a doctor's appointment and then back to Maine until tomorrow night. DD is a bit better, not feverish, but only got 4 hours of sleep last night... hopefully she won't have a relapse. So far DS has avoided this, but I think he was hoping he would get it during the night so he could stay home today and avoid his World Cultures test!

My goal today is to get all of the laundry finished up (I've been washing and drying, but not having the energy to fold/put away until now), house picked up and vacuumed, all remaining gifts wrapped, meal plans/grocery lists with coupons made up for now through Wednesday, make lists of remaining last minute gifts needed (along with coupons), DD's bathroom cleaned and DS's bed stripped/washed/remade. I am still feeling a bit "off" so this will take all of my energy today, I'm sure.

Off to observe a moment of silence. BBL to chat..................P

 

[lisah0711]

I'm at work and I ate one of the Christmas cookies from the Christmas event. That's ok I tell myself, just stop thinking about eating that second one!

Way to indulge yourself so you don't feel deprived but keep control!

Morning friends! Happy rainy/snowy/windy Friday to you all! I know that some in this country are having snow today and lots of it. Stay safe! We started here with some snow during the night, but it has changed entirely to rain and wind. Doesn't make for a white Christmas, but I'm not complaining.

Glad that all the folks in your house are feeling better, Pamela!

Happy Winter Solstice! After today, the days will start getting longer -- yay!

All the schools in our county are closed today due to rumors of a planned act of violence. It's not a good way to start off the holiday and I hope the passage of time will allow things to be back to normal by the time they return to school on 1/7.

I am running and going to yoga today and tomorrow so I have a good bit of exercise before the community center is closed for Christmas.

Have a great week-end everyone!

 

[pjlla]

Good Afternoon!

Lisa.... I'm so sorry to hear about your schools. That is so very sad. We have had a few threats around here and I know that there was a school district in the area that was going to have uniformed police presence in their buildings all day today, due to some sort of threat. It makes me wonder what we are doing to our children and they mental status.

Well, I certainly am moving in slow motion, compared to my usual. I haven't done everything on the list yet, but got the more important stuff done. The downstairs is all picked up, laundry is all folded and put away (with another load in the cycle right now). DS's sheets were stripped and are just finishing up in the dryer. I did my sheets and DD's sheets yesterday, so we will all start the holiday with fresh bedding. I also ordered two photo collages for a small project I want to finish up for both kids. They will be ready to pick up tonight.

I have about 90 minutes to make up my shopping lists and organize my coupons before I head out to pick up the kids and go to the store(s).

To those of you who are keeping up with your exercise through this holiday season..... Between illness, bad weather, and just plain "stuff to do", I'll be lucky if I get in even an hour of exercise between now and Christmas day. It just doesn't always seem to be a priority.

For those who are keeping up with your OP eating, despite all of the holiday goodies around..... The temptations this time of year are EVERYWHERE! Cookies, chocolate, fancy meals!

And for the rest of you.... who are struggling to fit in the exercise that they KNOW they need, even when they are being pulled in 10 directions...... who are trying hard to resist eating the Christmas cookies that the kids "must" have and those who have a full weekend of holiday celebrations (aka food minefields) to get through.... Hang in there! Do the best you can!! We can't ask any more of you than your best, right? Make the best choices available in each situation and start fresh every morning!

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

 

[50sjayne]

Hey--just jumping in here. Didn't do the last challenge because I was so frustrated with the scale. Plus we went to Disneyland the week after Turkey day and I was on the main Disney boards a lot. I don't spend a lot of time on the computer anymore so I had to choose. Does the next challenge start the Friday after New Years? Been doing really good with my exercise but definitely not eating any less lol. My pants are all getting too tight and I had to put bags of them away for now-- I need to get back in them!

The only thing helping me right now is something I saw on Dr. Oz about an apple trick-every time you want to eat something you think well could you eat an apple right now-- usually the answer is no for me and I realize I'm not hungry-- I'm just eating for other reasons...

 

[donac]

Hi we are going to running it like they monthly exercise thread. We should be starting it up soon.

Welcome back

 

[pjlla]

Good morning all! Ready for the last weekend push to be "holiday ready"? DD wants me to take her shopping today. She has 4 days off of swim and so this has been her first chance to shop. It will be crazy out there, but I'm prepared (I think).

I had a few extra points last night and we will probably have lunch out while shopping...I'll have to be careful to be sure that I maintain until Monday.

I'm hungry for breakfast andI need to get the kids moving, so I will dash for now. Hope everyone is well, healthy, happy, and making good choices! TTYL........P

 

[lisah0711]

To those of you who are keeping up with your exercise through this holiday season..... Between illness, bad weather, and just plain "stuff to do", I'll be lucky if I get in even an hour of exercise between now and Christmas day. It just doesn't always seem to be a priority.

For those who are keeping up with your OP eating, despite all of the holiday goodies around..... The temptations this time of year are EVERYWHERE! Cookies, chocolate, fancy meals!

And for the rest of you.... who are struggling to fit in the exercise that they KNOW they need, even when they are being pulled in 10 directions...... who are trying hard to resist eating the Christmas cookies that the kids "must" have and those who have a full weekend of holiday celebrations (aka food minefields) to get through.... Hang in there! Do the best you can!! We can't ask any more of you than your best, right? Make the best choices available in each situation and start fresh every morning!

Well said!

Enjoy your shopping day with DD, Pamela!

Hey--just jumping in here. Didn't do the last challenge because I was so frustrated with the scale. Plus we went to Disneyland the week after Turkey day and I was on the main Disney boards a lot. I don't spend a lot of time on the computer anymore so I had to choose. Does the next challenge start the Friday after New Years? Been doing really good with my exercise but definitely not eating any less lol. My pants are all getting too tight and I had to put bags of them away for now-- I need to get back in them!

The only thing helping me right now is something I saw on Dr. Oz about an apple trick-every time you want to eat something you think well could you eat an apple right now-- usually the answer is no for me and I realize I'm not hungry-- I'm just eating for other reasons...

Hi Susan! Nice to see you! Dona is right the format for the challenge is changing a bit. Rose will be hostessing the first month and will be posting the first thread next week -- after she returns from celebrating Christmas with her family at WDW.

Hi we are going to running it like they monthly exercise thread. We should be starting it up soon.

Welcome back

Have a wonderful break, Dona, and a very Merry Christmas!

As I was making grocery lists for the next few days I came across this from cookinglight.com (I know it's shocking it's not from sparkpeople )

7 Secrets of Healthy Holiday Indulgence: How to savor the delights of cheese, chocolate, caramel, and meat in light, smart, delicious ways.

1. Portion control
2. Keep servings small but satisfying.
3. Use high flavor ingredients.
4. Indulge in the best decadent chocolate.
5. Pick on indulgent star dish.
6. Add a luxurious topping.
7. Make an expensive ingredient affordable.


The point is to enjoy and savor without overdoing and having feelings of guilt and regret later.

Here is the link to the entire article.
http://www.cookinglight.com/enterta...s/healthy-holiday-indulgences-00412000079477/

Happy Saturday all!

 

[jillbur]

Good evening! I just wanted to check in. I think I had what Pamela had (although I didn't get it from her lol). It's definitely going around. Finished up a little last minute shopping & dinner with DH on Thursday. I woke up yesterday with a sore throat, headache, chills, and low fever I went to work since it was a half day. When I came home I took a 3 hour nap then just rested on the couch. I feel a tad better today so I made gobs, Oreo truffles, and chocolate chip cookie dough truffles. They are all packaged up & in the fridge & freezer.

I am going to veg on the couch the rest of the night. I hope I'm completely better tomorrow so I can try to get a workout in. I am lacking in that department this week.

I'll try to check in tomorrow. Have a great night!

Jill

 

[lisah0711]

Jill, so sorry that you have the crud. Best wishes for a speedy recovery! It's tough on Christmas activities when Mom isn't feeling well for sure.

I have one neighbor gift to deliver and then we are done with all Christmas preparation until it is time to cook Christmas dinner. Yay!

A little thought for you all on this Sunday morning:

Have a great day all!

 

[lovetoscrap]

HI!! Thought I would check in--I know it has been a very long time since I have been able to get over here. I started a full time job as Middle School Secretary in August and it has been a bit of a challenge to get adjusted to working again. I think I am about there though! My boss (the new principal) is the greatest and sweetest woman-- amazing to work with and I have great coworkers who are very patient and supportive. For those that knew me from the challenges I particpated in this is the school my kids go to and the one where I subbed in the spring and the secretaries were really impressed with my weight loss.

I gained about 10 pounds back from where I was a year ago but a lot of that was due to needing to do some food challenges to try to figure out some intolerances. I have "maintained" that within a few pounds but am ready now to start the new year off with a WISH! I want to get 25 off by the end of the school year. Being in a school there are a LOT of challenges-- food is constantly being brought in. And we order out every Friday. But I think I can do it and can plan to stay on plan no matter where we order from.

I am ready for Christmas to be here! Today will be present wrapping day. Things did kind of sneak up on me since I am used to having lots of time all week to go shopping while the kids are in school. We finished shopping yesterday and got the girls annual picture with Santa. They are 12 and 17 and didn't really see a need to visit Santa but I told them I have had their picture done with Santa every year since they were born so they have to indulge me for at least 2 more years! I will probably make them do it until the youngest graduates high school though.

Everyone have a great Holiday!

 

[lisah0711]

HI!! Thought I would check in--I know it has been a very long time since I have been able to get over here. I started a full time job as Middle School Secretary in August and it has been a bit of a challenge to get adjusted to working again. I think I am about there though! My boss (the new principal) is the greatest and sweetest woman-- amazing to work with and I have great coworkers who are very patient and supportive. For those that knew me from the challenges I particpated in this is the school my kids go to and the one where I subbed in the spring and the secretaries were really impressed with my weight loss.

I gained about 10 pounds back from where I was a year ago but a lot of that was due to needing to do some food challenges to try to figure out some intolerances. I have "maintained" that within a few pounds but am ready now to start the new year off with a WISH! I want to get 25 off by the end of the school year. Being in a school there are a LOT of challenges-- food is constantly being brought in. And we order out every Friday. But I think I can do it and can plan to stay on plan no matter where we order from.

I am ready for Christmas to be here! Today will be present wrapping day. Things did kind of sneak up on me since I am used to having lots of time all week to go shopping while the kids are in school. We finished shopping yesterday and got the girls annual picture with Santa. They are 12 and 17 and didn't really see a need to visit Santa but I told them I have had their picture done with Santa every year since they were born so they have to indulge me for at least 2 more years! I will probably make them do it until the youngest graduates high school though.

Everyone have a great Holiday!

Hi LTS! Nice to see you! Sounds like you are adjusting to your new job and are ready to get back in the swing of things in 2013. We have a new challenge starting for January called WISH Away the Pounds -- like the monthly exercise thread. I'm really looking forward to the new format and knocking those goals down month by month. Nice of your girls to indulge their Mom with pictures.

 

[mikamah]

Good evening my WISH friends!

I want to wish you all a most happy and peaceful Christmas. I think most of us celebrate Christmas, but if not, Happy Holidays to everyone too.

Been busy here, and am definitely looking forward to getting back on the healthy track after the holiday. I'm going to rejoin WW. It's been a couple years since I've gone, and I think to start fresh, and go to meetings again will definitely help me get to the start of the princess half 2014. My goal will also to have a little more time to take some pics, and I know that weight loss will be a huge factor in that.

Have a wonderful holiday everyone!!