Biggest Loser Alumni Holiday Edition: past, present and future participants welcome!

[flipflopmom]

Thank you for all of your support! Taryn, feel free to get preachy. Sometimes, I need it. I will say that when I woke up post-nightmare, I started thinking about a way to prevent them. I don't have a trip planned yet, but I am going to start looking into flying down on Friday night and home Monday morning.This will probably be my last post until after Christmas. It is busy beaver time in my house through the 26th.

I think planning a solo trip sounds like a fabulous idea, and something to think about to drift you off into good dreams. Ak and I both have nighttime issues, she had night terrors as a toddler/preschooler, and is struggling again- I've awoken nightly for a month to have her in a sleeping bag beside my bed. I've also had nightmares all my life. For me, the best preventative is reading myself to sleep, something totally fluffy, feel good, and mindless. Nothing I'll want to stay awake to finish or with a hint of scariness in it. Right now, I'm reading Little House on the Prarie. Have a wonderful Christmas honey!

we then started to decorate the tree. I have to finish it today since it is hard to do it at night. Too many dark places not filled in. Today I have a half day and I have maybe 4 or 5 quick stops to get somethings for dh. The class wanted me to open it up when I got it. I am glad I didn't bring it home. It was an electric pencil sharpener for my classroom. It was very sweet.

How cute that they did that, very thoughtful of the teens! I can't believe you have to work today! for getting the tree started!

Being off work equals way too many posts for me! Now what I am supposed to do for 30 minutes instead of catch up?

We have a 50% chance of snow for Christmas. I was really excited until I talked to a dear friend whose husband was in Iraq last Christmas. He works for the dept. of transportation, and found out he would have to be called out to work 7a-7p for snow removal if it does snow on Saturday. She was sooooo upset, so now I don't want a white Christmas, for her sake. They have 3 little girls that need their Daddy there Christmas day this year!

Talked to mom yesterday, and for some reason, she wanted to talk about the days leading up to Daddy's death (when was he taken to ICU, who was there, when did they intubate him, when was the last time he talked, etc...) Evidently, his last 3 days have all run together in her brain for a year, and she finally was ready (or thought I was ready) to talk about it. It was very, very, very hard later after reliving those last days (he was in the hospital for 9). Couldn't shake those awful memories, phone calls, conversations, and woke up early with it on my mind again. May have to just have a "put on sad songs, cry, and purge the feelings" session.

Have a great day (Christmas Eve Eve)!
Taryn

 

[SettinSail]

Good morning losers!

My name is Shawn and I will be your coach today. I am an American who is currently living in Germany…..however, I am in the US visiting for a few weeks right now.

I just wrapped up my first BL challenge and discovered the benefits of a truly wonderful support group. I lost 12.5 pounds on that challenge and could not have done it without the advice, encouragement and motivation of my fellow BL participants. Hope you will consider joining us on the Spring ’11 Challenge!

OK, are you finished shopping, wrapping, baking and cleaning yet ??!! Hope you have your Holiday preparations well in hand. If not, you have all day today and most of tomorrow to finish. You can do it!!! It does not have to be perfect.

Well, I posted the other day about how I am working to maintain my weight until I get back “home” to Germany by exercising daily, drinking water and trying to eat in moderation. But then real life set in and I fell off the wagon! We had yummy meals at Chilli’s, Cheesecake Factory and even Bojangles! I ran on Tuesday but didn’t do any exercise on Wednesday. I need to get back on track today! I’m up early to run for 35 minutes, then have an Eye Doctor appt at 9:30 and meeting a friend for lunch. She is very weight conscious so I’ll just order what she does. Not sure what is on tap for the rest of the day but I will try to be very careful.

DH and I were watching an interesting show on FIT TV yesterday about the obesity problem in America and several experts talked about what a difference small changes can make and that even losing just 10 % of your body weight can make a significant impact on your health. This leads me to the …..

Thursday Dec 23 QOTD: What small changes would you recommend to a friend just beginning their weight loss journey?

Rose: Glad to hear you made it safely to WDW. Have a great vacation!

Tayrn: DS & I went to see Straight No Chaser last year, it was their last concert of 2009. We loved it ! We just missed them this year, they had 3 performances in Raleigh last weekend. We do have one car at my parents house and we sold our other car. The one we kept we had just bought in 2008. It’s expensive and a hassle to keep it insured, tagged, etc but DH did not want to sell it and he does not want to put it in storage so my Dad drives it a little for us. What a great day you had, treated to lunch and a very nice surprise gift!!! So sorry to hear about the TA’s wife.

Tracey: Congrats on winning the BL contest at the weight loss center! Enjoy the snow.
That’s awesome that you got such a nice tip! I love the movie Four Weddings and a Funeral! Let us know how the BL Power Walk video is, I am looking for exercise videos.

KristiMc: Congrats on winning the Fall BL challenge!

Jeanette: Your new sheets sound heavenly! I agree with other, PLEASE keep posting about your wedding plans, I love to hear about it. If it were me, I would definitely choose the venue where you can get such a good deal. But, I am so frugal! I would enjoy spending the money I saved on the honeymoon or setting up house or adding to my savings account! What happened when you visited your childhood church?

Nicole: Have you decided what to do next week when the rec center is closed? Do you have somewhere you can run outside?

Dona: Can’t believe the diagnosis on your knee! No wonder you were in such pain. Hope it gets better for you!

CC: for your sleep issues! Do you have a cafeteria where you work? Hugs for your issue with being forced to do something you don’t want to! I think the solo trip to WDW sounds great!

Honugirl: for all you’ve been through. Take it one day at a time and just do what you can for that day. Little by little you’ll get there!

Lisa: Hope you feel better soon! Great job going down 2 sizes!!

LisaH: If there was a dwarf called “Piggy” that would be me these last few days, eating everything in sight! My guys want to see Tron too,

Pudge the Fish: Great story!

Cam: Happy Anniversary! So close to Christmas!

Lindsay: I have a coupld of Wilow Tree figures too. I didn’t know they made a nativity scene, I will have to check it out. I am right there with you on the horrible eating. Hope we can get over it soon!!!

Kathy: Enjoy your time off from work! How do you like your new progressive lenses?

Kelli: Good luck making your sales goal….hope you are super busy and get your bonus!

I had fun shopping yesterday with my 10 year old niece. I bought her some cute boots and a jean jacket from Old Navy. They were only $27 together! She bought herself a Webkins, a sleep mask, matching “BFF” horse necklaces, nail polish, 10 lips smackers, an American Girl book and some shower “jelly” like soap. We decided to have an annual shopping day together, just the 2 of us. She also ate 2 giant pretzels and she only weighs 79 pounds! I bought some good quality waterproof boots so I don’t have to worry about falling down in my Uggs anymore. The new boots are Sorel and they are very comfy. We watched a hilarious movie from Red Box last night, The Other Guys with Will Ferrell.

Have a great day and remember, those small changes really add up and make a big difference!

Shawn

 

[SettinSail]

I think planning a solo trip sounds like a fabulous idea, and something to think about to drift you off into good dreams. Ak and I both have nighttime issues, she had night terrors as a toddler/preschooler, and is struggling again- I've awoken nightly for a month to have her in a sleeping bag beside my bed. I've also had nightmares all my life. For me, the best preventative is reading myself to sleep, something totally fluffy, feel good, and mindless. Nothing I'll want to stay awake to finish or with a hint of scariness in it. Right now, I'm reading Little House on the Prarie. Have a wonderful Christmas honey!


How cute that they did that, very thoughtful of the teens! I can't believe you have to work today! for getting the tree started!

Being off work equals way too many posts for me! Now what I am supposed to do for 30 minutes instead of catch up?

We have a 50% chance of snow for Christmas. I was really excited until I talked to a dear friend whose husband was in Iraq last Christmas. He works for the dept. of transportation, and found out he would have to be called out to work 7a-7p for snow removal if it does snow on Saturday. She was sooooo upset, so now I don't want a white Christmas, for her sake. They have 3 little girls that need their Daddy there Christmas day this year!

Talked to mom yesterday, and for some reason, she wanted to talk about the days leading up to Daddy's death (when was he taken to ICU, who was there, when did they intubate him, when was the last time he talked, etc...) Evidently, his last 3 days have all run together in her brain for a year, and she finally was ready (or thought I was ready) to talk about it. It was very, very, very hard later after reliving those last days (he was in the hospital for 9). Couldn't shake those awful memories, phone calls, conversations, and woke up early with it on my mind again. May have to just have a "put on sad songs, cry, and purge the feelings" session.

Have a great day (Christmas Eve Eve)!
Taryn

We did the sleeping bag beside the bed a few times with DH too - hope the night terrors don't come back!

Hoping for no snow for your area! We are driving to DH's parents (Near W-S!)
on Cmas Day so I'm hoping for only a little snow so we have a safe drive. Our friends pick us up Sunday to drive to Blowing Rock so I dn't want to get stuck there either!

for going through those memories. Try to switch back to the more happy times with your Dad, sounds like there were lots of those. I do not have a very close relationship with my Dad so I am a little envious of yours.

Off to weigh-in and get outside to jog!

Shawn

 

[lisah0711]

On this day of the holiday challenge my true love gave to me . . . ten minutes of leaping, nine moves of dancing, eight minutes relaxing, seven laps of swimming, six days of journaling, FIVE HAPPY WISH'ERS!, four motivating words, three sets of ten, two exercise gloves and a big glass of water for me!

Aren't you glad there is only one more day of this!

Hi Lisa0711 I'm back and thanks for this Holiday Thread

Hi tea pot! I saw on the VWL groupies thread that you just returned from a from trip to WDW and got to meet some groupies! My DH is getting nostalgic for WDW -- he told me this morning that even waiting for the buses sounds fun!

Good morning!

First day of winter break for my kiddos. They were still up early though.

QOTD: I would be Happy. I love this time of year. The kids are home, DH is home till after New Years. I have all the shopping/wrapping done - now it is time to relax.

Cupcake: I am liking the new WW program. It still baffles me that I can eat more points and lose weight. I love that I can have fruit for 0 points!

The early rising won't last forever, Kristi. I had to wake my DS up this morning at 10:15 a.m. to tell him to get ready to go to lunch!

Hope everyone has a wonderful day!

Sunny

You have a wonderful day, too, Sunny! That clippie looks good on you!

If anyone has seen Lilo and Stich they know that Pudge the Fish controls the weather. Lilo would feed him a Peanut butter sandwich every day.

Love the story -- it's been awhile since I've seen Lilo and Stitch. Hope that you are feeling better soon!

Hi, everyone! I have been reading but haven't had time to post. Life is crazy busy. I've gone from one huge case to the next and am only now coming up for air for the first time in more than a month. Now I'm buried in all the end-of-year admnistrative stuff that I manage for my firm.

Happy, happy anniversary to you two lovebirds!

I got my Peppermint Mocha Kahlua!!! Actually bought 2 bottles! So excited!!!!

I love this stuff! There is a $10 rebate from Kahlua for two bottles but you have to send it in by 12/31. I've been putting a tiny bit of cream in mine -- 50 calories but so tasty. :yum:

I am trying to be happy but someone else has other plans for me today because our office is crazy and I am feeling very overwhelmed.

Hope things improved yesterday, Lindsay! I think that you might be a tad optimistic about how relaxed your boys will be on Christmas Eve! It will be fun to watch them.

I totally forgot to mention that I am finally wearing the jeans I bought a couple of months ago, which is great because my larger ones were getting way too baggy. So I am ending the year down 2 sizes, which is not as much as I hoped for, but I'm still celebrating it anyway. I think I underestimated the psychological effect of putting on a smaller size. It feels good and will help me keep on track the next few weeks.

Hi Lisa! So exciting to be wearing your new smaller size!

I'm HAPPY!!!! I am off now from work til next wed, except for being on call sunday, but that wouldn't entail more than a couple hours, it's snowing out right now, beautiful big flakes, I have Christmas music on, my house is warm, I got a run/walk in today, my shopping is done and wrapped. Life is good.

Gotta love those staycations!

Finally hung all my photo Christmas cards around my kitchen doorway! Now it really looks like Christmas in my house!

Playdate is going really well. The girls get along so well! They are playing and watching a movie!

Should get in the kitchen now and do some cooking.

Steak tips grilled in the snow is what's for dinner here! Red meat always makes me feel better!

Oh yeah, did I mention that it is snowing here! Expecting 1-3" by morning! Looks like a white Christmas here!!!!

TTFn

Tracey, isn't your anniversary coming up, too?

BRB too many smilies!

 

[lisah0711]

So glad my kids are late sleepers. Of course, it would have something to do w/ my slack parenting and them staying up late.

Another slacker here, too, Taryn!

I haven't been around much lately. Busy, busy busy and I'm sure the rest of you are too. Thank you Lisa for telling about this thread I had no idea it was here. Hopefully I will be able to visit a little more often. So when does the next challenge start? I am thinking the first week in January like last year. Please let me know.

I'm glad that you found us and that you are recovering from your surgery. The next challenge start 1/1/11 -- sounds like a lucky day doesn't it? It's a team challenge and Rose is hostessing. Sign up on the main thread and Rose will assign you to a team when she returns on 12/29.

I guess I'm sleepy today I didn't want to get up this morning and nearly dozed off at work.

It's been crazy busy around here, but what's new. I didn't get out of work until 6 tonight, Had to pick up prescription refills and finally got home around 7. Thankfully DH had dinner ready. We're watching The Santa Clause. I haven't seen any Christmas shows this year.

Wow! Busy day, Deb. Hope you got some rest!

Hi everybody!!!!

Just got back from my party!!! I won!!!!! $250!!!!! I won by 4% body weight! My neighbor down the street finished 3rd!!! So I lost 16.2 pounds, 15.5 inches and 10.2% body weight!!!!

Tracey! That is so exciting! All your hard work paid off!

TAUWILLOW I was browsing through the channels, and our local PBS station has the UNC School of Arts nutcracker on!!!! If I'm remembering correctly, your son was on my TV! I DVR'd it, if you feel comfortable sharing which part he is in. I turned it on when there was a lady with a big skirt on, she rolled it up and people danced out, so I have DVR'd from that part on. I was so excited!

Wow! That was exciting -- and for some reason that song "it's a small, small world" is going through my mind.

I don't have a trip planned yet, but I am going to start looking into flying down on Friday night and home Monday morning. I can take a half day any time after March 1st, but don't have vacation time until after I finish my 1st year. I am really feeling the urge to take a solo trip. Not sure why, maybe just to say I did?

Too bad you can't come down for the Princess. I'm looking forward to my solo trip.

Thanks for volunteering to coach! I put you down for 12/29 and 12/30.

I have one more coaching opening on 12/26 -- any volunteers?

Dona, hope your last days of classes goes quickly!

For me, the best preventative is reading myself to sleep, something totally fluffy, feel good, and mindless. Nothing I'll want to stay awake to finish or with a hint of scariness in it. Right now, I'm reading Little House on the Prarie.

Oh, I love those books! My favorite is These Happy Golden Years. I read the set at least once a year. Those are good books for someone who grew up to be a teacher!

OK, are you finished shopping, wrapping, baking and cleaning yet ??!! Hope you have your Holiday preparations well in hand. If not, you have all day today and most of tomorrow to finish. You can do it!!! It does not have to be perfect.

Well, I posted the other day about how I am working to maintain my weight until I get back “home” to Germany by exercising daily, drinking water and trying to eat in moderation. But then real life set in and I fell off the wagon! We had yummy meals at Chilli’s, Cheesecake Factory and even Bojangles! I ran on Tuesday but didn’t do any exercise on Wednesday. I need to get back on track today! I’m up early to run for 35 minutes, then have an Eye Doctor appt at 9:30 and meeting a friend for lunch. She is very weight conscious so I’ll just order what she does. Not sure what is on tap for the rest of the day but I will try to be very careful.

DH and I were watching an interesting show on FIT TV yesterday about the obesity problem in America and several experts talked about what a difference small changes can make and that even losing just 10 % of your body weight can make a significant impact on your health. This leads me to the …..

Thursday Dec 23 QOTD: What small changes would you recommend to a friend just beginning their weight loss journey?

Sounds like you are having a wonderful time, Shawn!

The small changes I would suggest are: pay attention to what you are eating, think about how you feel when you are eating, add some activity to your day, the little stuff can really add up.

This morning I am going to brave Target at 8 am to see if I can find some running tights in my size. Then I have a short run and the last trip to the grocery store to do today. Tonight we will go on our annual drive to see Christmas lights. I'll do my 6 mile run on Sunday.

Have a great day all!

 

[mikamah]

Good morning everyone!! Hope the craziness starts to wind down for you all and you can relax and enjoy the holiday.

I am enjoying my morning coffee and decided i'm going to take all the time I want right now to catch up with everyone here. It's funny, I'll see my family and my 2 best friends in the next few days, but I talk to you all here more than anyone else, and wish you were closer and we could all get together for a holiday gathering.

I'm actually surprised that I am maintaining. I'm done some serious baking and eating of said baked goods, but I made chili sunday and have had that for lunch and dinner every day, and am still where I was last friday. It's snowing now, so my run/walk plans are out, so I'm going to do some wii just dance after I post. Michael's got a little cold, but was fine to go to school, and wants to go to aftercare for the gingerbread house making, but I told him to have them call me if he wants to come home early. We are having the scouts over tonight for a christmas party and we'll make ornaments and have pizza and cookies. I hit the grocery and liquor store this am, and shouldn't need to go out tomorrow.

LIsa-I can coach sunday, if you're still in need. It is the day I'm going to get back on track, so it would be good for me. Good luck at target today. I need to get out and try to find some warm pants/tights too, but I don't feel like it today. I'm thoroughly enjoying the days of the challenge song. You are very witty.

Shawn-sounds like you're enjoying your trip home. I wouldn't worry about the eating and celebrating with your friends and family. Before you know it you will be back in germany, and you have made some more special memories, even if they did involve food indulgences, i'm sure many of them you can't get in germany. Plus you're going out for a jog today! You aren't totally giving up your health lifestyle. keep moving, keep drinking that water, and enjoy your trip home. January is not too far away.
I think I like the progressives overall, but the difficult part is the computer. So I'll have to keep dis-ing til I'm uset to them.

Qotd- I would tell someone just starting out, to try and make small changes in your diet, stay away from fried foods, and get the water in, move more, but also to be patient and make it lifestyle that you can live with.

Taryn-sounds like a tough conversation with mom. It's tough to look back and live through the stress of all that happened then, and you are so good to do that for your mom when she needed it. Wish I was closer, I'd come over and have a good cry with you. Hope you can take some time to reminisce, the good and bad times, and that the good memories will take over.

dona- That is so sweet you student gave you that gift. I'm sure many of the high schoolers never think of the teachers. Hope the holiday prep all goes smoothly.

CC-I think a solo trip sounds fabulous. I've actually thought ahead about 15 years til michael is out of college and the bills are paid off, and I can take one myself. I actually went on to a conference once in orlando and had one day to myself and went to epcot and absolutely loved walking around by myself. It would have been great if you could go the princess weekend. Hope you are sleeping better soon.

Tracey- Congrats on winning the bl contest!! Awesome prize!! When I first read you were enjoying some rum and eggnog, I thought you had posted this morning and thought, go Tracey, you know how to celebrate, girl.

Lindsay- I love willow tree and and have a few of them. My favorite is the little boy with blue jeans on who's holding a gold heart. Your boys must be getting so excited for santa!! Sounds like a great plan to relax home tomorrow evening. I thought of you when I called the pediatrician to get michael in monday and they were booked solid, but they did find me a spot. Crazy time of year for you.

Cam- Happy belated Anniversary to you and dh.

Hello to anyone I've missed. Have a great day. I'm going to do some wii now and then clean the bathroom. I always put that chore off.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Um... I collect Willow Tree, too. I want the nativity set. Cute story about the kids wanting to put Santa in there! I will be glad to come clean yours WHEN I finish mine, but since I am here instead of cleaning, that key is safe where it is.

a friend called and wanted to take us out for lunch today.

One of my students came by as we were getting ready. His parents are friends, and he brought me my "teacher" gift. O.M.G. He had the sweetest painted sign that says "If you can dream it, you can do it" by Walt and a silhouette of Mickey, some Virginia Tech cups, and a $40 gift certificate to a clothes store (local, Southern, Belk). I could have passed out!!!!

Go figure!!! I was thinking you most likely had willow tree too.

How nice of your friend to take you for lunch. and for those gifts. Wow how nice of that friend/student. I hope you enjoy shopping for yourself with that GC and the sign sounds soooo pretty.

Hello, everyone! I just wanted to let you know that I am still here!

Thanks for checking in...I hope you get your bonus. Merry Christmas

Just got back from my party!!! I won!!!!! $250!!!!! I won by 4% body weight! My neighbor down the street finished 3rd!!! So I lost 16.2 pounds, 15.5 inches and 10.2% body weight!!!!

Congratulations

I don't have a trip planned yet, but I am going to start looking into flying down on Friday night and home Monday morning. I can take a half day any time after March 1st, but don't have vacation time until after I finish my 1st year. I am really feeling the urge to take a solo trip. Not sure why, maybe just to say I did?
CC

I think a solo trip sounds great and probably a great way for you to relax and clear your mind.

I forgot. I got a present from someone in my geometry class. I usually only get maybe 1 or 2 small things and it is usually cookies. The class wanted me to open it up when I got it. I am glad I didn't bring it home. It was an electric pencil sharpener for my classroom. It was very sweet.

Thats a great gift! I hope you get everything done and can relax and enjoy the next few days.

Talked to mom yesterday, and for some reason, she wanted to talk about the days leading up to Daddy's death

Im sure that was so hard for you.

Thursday Dec 23 QOTD: What small changes would you recommend to a friend just beginning their weight loss journey?

I would say take it one day at a time, drink lots of water, and get moving!

Sounds like you had a great shopping trip shawn. I bet your niece loved it!

On this day of the holiday challenge my true love gave to me . . . ten minutes of leaping, nine moves of dancing, eight minutes relaxing, seven laps of swimming, six days of journaling, FIVE HAPPY WISH'ERS!, four motivating words, three sets of ten, two exercise gloves and a big glass of water for me!

Aren't you glad there is only one more day of this!

I love this... I anxiously await each day to see what line is next.

Lindsay- I love willow tree and and have a few of them. My favorite is the little boy with blue jeans on who's holding a gold heart. Your boys must be getting so excited for santa!! Sounds like a great plan to relax home tomorrow evening. I thought of you when I called the pediatrician to get michael in monday and they were booked solid, but they did find me a spot. Crazy time of year for you.

It is complete insanity in our office right now. Everyone wants the miracle drug so the kids arent sick for xmas. I cant wait until today is over. The boys are very excited and Lisa if you are reading this reply...yes Im sure my day tomorrow will not be at all relaxing with my boys...they are already bouncing off the walls.....I am an optimist though


I am getting a good amt of stuff done at work today in preperation for my week off next wk. I still have some cleaning tonight and then I have to still wrap every present I bought. Im not going to stress I know it will all get done.

I have a lean cuisine pasta meal for lunch and I am drinking water so hopefully the past two days of excessive calorie consumption will flush away quickly.

I hope you all have a great day. Take a moment to breathe and enjoy it!!!

 

[SettinSail]

I'm back from the eye Dr and reading this with my new bifocal contacts! I love them! They are not one eye for distance and one eye for close, they are both the same. The area around the pupil is made for close reading and the further out you go on the lens it changes to distance viewing. My eye Dr and receptionist both highly recommended them. So far, they are great. I will try this pair out until Monday and then I'll call back and order a year's supply of either these or my old brand.

Popped into Belk after the eye Dr and got 2 pr jeans and 3 sweaters for $115. I've basically gone from XL to L on top and 18 to (tight) 16 on bottom. I need to lose 5-10 more pounds before I would wear these new jeans so I am being optimistic!!!

LisaH, your son sounds like mine!!! We all 3 love to sleep in!
Good luck at Target. And, for your 7 mile run on Sunday - WOW!

Kathy, thanks for the encouragement. Love this community! I'm trying not to worry too much but I don't want to gain back 10 pounds and have to lose that all over again Believe me, it is possible !!!
You are doing great with maintaining - I need to keep tweaking. Definitely want to enjoy myself but not put back on too much. Michael is still in school today ??? Have fun with the Scouts!

Have to run out to meet my friend for lunch BBL

Shawn

 

[keenercam]

Just got back from my party!!! I won!!!!! $250!!!!! I won by 4% body weight! My neighbor down the street finished 3rd!!! So I lost 16.2 pounds, 15.5 inches and 10.2% body weight!!!!

Congratulations!

Shawn - Your shopping expedition sounds like so much fun!

Drats. I had so much to respond to and then got pulled away and closed the window by mistake.

I will settle for saying thank you for the wonderful anniversary wishes. Howard and I had a lovely dinner out at Sullivans. I was SOOO good and controlled without feeling deprived -- shrimp cocktail, the wedge salad with no bleu cheese & no dressing on it (I had it on the side and literally dabbed some on); 1/2 of my broiled salmon; asparagus w/a bit of the dressing on it; 1/2 baked potato; 1 small slice of bread with butter; mushrooms; 1/2 of an onion ring and 1/2 of the complimentary cheesecake they gave us for dessert.
I think the whole meal was so much more satisfying than it might have been otherwise simply because I was not stuffed. LOL! It felt great to eat part of everything except the shrimp cocktail and the salad and be completely satisfied. Oh, and I am so excited to have the rest of my salmon and baked potato for dinner tonight.

I was only down .4 this morning at my WW weigh in, but that is 7 pounds in 3 weeks. I haven't done that well in a really long time, so I am feeling like the new plan is exactly what my body needs in order to lose. I am hoping the holidays won't be too hard since we aren't entertaining much this year.

Lisa - If you still need a coach for Sunday, 12/26, I am happy to help. Just let me know.

BBL!

 

[dvccruiser76]

We live in Stuttgart, in Southern Germany. It is the headquarters for Mercedes and Porsche. There are many automotive companies in this area. Where did you go on your vacation? Germany is a very interesting and beautiful country! We are close to Austria, Italy, Switzerland and France.

We spent two weeks in Europe with 5 nights in Paris (actually Disneyland Paris and if I had to do it again I'd stay in actual Paris the city), then a couple of nights in Munich, 2 nights in Zurich and 1 night in Scheffhausen. It was so nice there.

Sue- I haven't walked at the mall lately, but I like to run/walk, so that's why. I am not happy with this snow, it was so slippery for such a small amount of snow today. I hope it melts soon. I may borrow my sisters treadmill this week, and i have a couple free day passes to the Y to us also. I love the idea of taking ds out of school for a day of shopping. I'm sure he will love that when he gets older.

Ugh, it is so gosh darn cold and slippery. Not good for walking at all. On the other hand, it'll be pretty for Christmas

Susan- I like cold sweet white wine too. Hmmm…maybe that should be my wine for the wedding. Any favorites?

My DH and I actually had a special Champgane at our wedding. It's the Banfi Rosa Regale that they have in Italy at Epcot and on the Disney Cruise Line. It's a rose colored champagne, but it's sweet like Asti Spumante so we had that special for everyone to toast with.

DVCcuier- Thanks for the welcome. We loved the December trip! It was for my daughters birthday. Now I just have to make up another reason to plan a trip.

You're welcome. We're going to go in December of 2013 with my son for his first trip. It seems like so far away, but it'll be fun when the time comes and I love it at that time of year with all the lights and decorations set up.

QOTD 12/21: Describe your favorite holiday decoration and why it is special to you.

I have a couple of favorites. One is my Rudolph ceramic figurine set, but I didn't dare put it up this year with my DS. I also have a miniature tree with lights and tiny ornaments that I love to put up in addition to our big tree.

Good morning ladies

I am going to join in on the alumni thread and try to be better about chatting

Hi Kristi

Jumping in here. New to the whole BL thing. Just joined my first challenge. I'm hoping to be a loser, but I may have to be content with being a maintainer. I live with no adrenal glands after battling Cushing's Disease and take steroids every day to compensate for what my body no longer makes. It's pretty complicated. I put on over close to 80 pounds with the Cushing's and really want to take that off. It's coming off very slowly.... sigh. My goal is to try and work in at least 45 minutes of exercise every day.

Welcome

Our TA's wife lost her battle yesterday morning. My heart is so heavy for them! He is doing great, with great attitude and perspective at this point, his 10 year old, not so much. Funeral is not until SUNDAY, which I thought was odd, but I 'm sure they have a reason.

2. Bragging mom moment. As many of you know, we're in a financial bind that seems endless right now, and sometimes overwhelming to the point of making me physically ill. BUT, I was so proud of AK after hearing another child talk yesterday that is her age. He was saying what he wanted for Christmas, and he said "but Mom says we can't AFFORD it. SHeez, she works 2 jobs, Dad works, that should be plenty to get me whatever I want". I thought back to how mature Ak has been through all this, using her birthday money to pay part of her field trip, not asking for much for Christmas or dinners out, offering to pay for things if she wants them, and just felt blessed. I can't help but think that in the long run, once we've dug out, she'll be a better person.
2b. Sophie had a fit when she realized the Princess purse, cell phone, and accessories she was taking to her preschool party were going to someone else, so I was concerned about her party. When she opened the Barbie she got, she was THRILLED! Another girl said "but I want a Barbie house, not this. Sophie even says "you can't ask for everything for Christmas, just a few things"

Sorry about the sad news

That is a proud mom moment!

If you were one of the seven dwarfs, which one would you be today -- Happy, Grumpy, Sleepy, Doc, Sneezy, Bashful or Dopey?

I'd like to say I'm Happy, but today I'm more like Sleepy

The WIN! results are up on the BL 10 thread. Congrats to our WINner, tggrrstarr! And to all our other WINners!

Yahoo awesome job

 

[dvccruiser76]

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas

We're heading up to NH later this afternoon, so I won't have internet access until Christmas, and may not be on that day.

Poor DS threw up at school yesterday, so he's home with my DH today. He then got sick on the ride home, and on the couch last night

So, hopefully we don't end up sick on Christmas.

I'll be back on Sunday

 

[tigger813]

Lisa- Anniversary is on Monday. 13 years!!! We're just going to order some take out if the weather is ok and play games and watch movies with the kids. We'd rather start saving for our cruise now!!!

Kathy- Believe me I could've used one this morning. I forgot to make DD2s lunch but luckily they can buy pizza everyday! I was running around like a crazy woman.

Hanging out at work for another 90 minutes. A client who owns a restaurant in our plaza gave us a gift certificate so we ordered lunch. I had a bacon burger and fries. Not good but I'm relaxing until after Christmas. I didn't get up to work out as I didn't get to sleep early enough last night and then was awake at 4 and couldn't get back to sleep. My client this morning gave me a nice Christmas gift. I had to stop on the way in to pick up ice melt. I need to run into the grocery store on the way home and pick up one thing. DH will be picking up the meat, gravy and potatoes tonight on his way home.

I'm still achy from my massage the other day! I took some motrin but my upper back still hurts.

Work has been busy today with lots of people buying gift certificates! It finally stopped snowing. May get more Sunday night but at least we will have a white Christmas.

I'll be back later!

TTFN

 

[SettinSail]

Back from lunch with my friend. It was a lovely French cafe/bakery place. Not sure I made the smartest choice...my friend was having the French Dip sandwich and I chose the spinach/feta quiche but when we ordered, they were out of the quiche. My friend suggested the proscuitto/asparagus tartine and it was delicious! It was like an open faced sandwich with olive tapinade on the bottom, then the pros/aspar but then all covered with cheese! I was not expecting all that cheese. Came with a small side salad too. Maybe it was not so bad since I do not feel disgustingly stuffed like I have after a few other meals this week

It was great to see my friend, we worked together for 24 years. She and another friend are coming to visit us in May. They want to go to London/Paris/Germany and then a week at cooking school in Italy. Somehow I think I am the planning person for all this We are definitely not the experts for how to get around Europe. We've travelled quite a bit but only by plane and don't know anything about train travel, passes, etc.

Dona: You are always so busy! It sounds like you have school today too? How sweet of your class to buy the electric pencil sharpener

Lindsay: Good luck getting the office closed down today. Is everyone off next week or just you? Enjoy your vacation

Cam: Wow - you did great at the anniversary dinner

Susan: Your European vacation sounds nice! I've never heard of Scheffhausen, will have to google, sounds German! I love Moet Rose Champagne but my favorite is Ruinart Hope your son feels better soon. Luckily at that age everything seems to pass by fast. Merry Christmas to you too!

Tracey: Sounds like you are getting some nice tips! Be careful in the snow!
I had a bite of DH's bacon cheeseburger last night at Cheesecake Factory!
Happy Anniversary a few days early!


Well, now that I am back from lunch, DH & DS took the car to go to Cici's. (yuck!) This would be a good time for me to wrap the gifts that we had delivered here and haven't wrapped yet. Me, my Mom and my sister are going to see Secretariat at the dollar theater at 3:00. I forgot to take my friend her Christmas present at lunch so I need to drop by her house this afternoon as well. Enjoy your afternoon

Shawn

 

[Cupcaker]

Good morning everyone. Today is my first day off till January 3rd Now its time to wrap all the presents and finish my shopping. I have been so busy I have had no time. Luckily (and unluckily) my computer at work got a virus after lunch so I got to go home early. Im trying to maintain, but have decided I need more exercise if I am not going to journal my food.

As for the wedding stuff, I have an appointment to go see the train station venue on Monday. As of right now, we like the animation building at DCA, the low cost venue, and this train station venue (even though we havent seen it). Say if we like the train station venue, maybe we can convince DF's boss to cater it for super cheap. That way we will still save some money. My DF does graphic design, so I know we can do all the stationary things cheaper too. Here is a link to an actual wedding that took place at the venue, Union Station.

I was about to put a link to the dresses I liked, and then I saw they were 25% off!!! I splurged and bought them. Actually, my DF bought me one and I bought the other. So here are links to dresses I bought: Whipped Butter Dress , Mystery Loves Company Dress. I love how they name all the dresses on their site. I think I will use them for either engagement pics, researhsal dinner, or any other type of party for the wedding. The Mystery Loves Company dress goes with our vintage theme that we want for the wedding.

Dona- so sorry to hear about your knee.

Tracey- woohoo for good tips! My DF works for tips, so I know how nice it must feel to get a good tip. I knew you would win! You work so hard it at, you deserve it!

CC- hearing about your nightmares reminds me of dream catchers. Have you ever heard of them? I also did a solo trip last year and liked it. Hope you can take your trip soon.

Honugirl- slow and steady for weightloss is a good place to be. Ive learned that all those people who have lost weight really fast, or faster than me, have already gained it all back. In the meantime I have been learning more about whats good for me and how much I should eat. I think your exercise plan is a good idea.

Kathy- what a beautiful memory you have of your mom with the santa claus. Hope you had a good non-ice slipping day yesterday.

Taryn- LOL Ive seen some of David Tutura’s shows with all the tacky stuff. Thanks for your willingness to associate with me to nominate my tacky stuff. Hope AKs sprained foot isn’t too bad. BTW- that was a great teachers gift that you got! Lots of hugs for you too.

Lisa- I think I have settled on next October. Its not too hot and its not cold here in California. Thanks for the idea. I will keep that in mind.

Rose- glad you got there good and safe!

Sunny- AWW I like how you got your nickname.

Pudge the fish- I love your story on how you got your nickname too!

Cam- Happy anniversary!! Hope you get some good time to relax from work.

Lindsay- Thanks for the advice and listening! Willow tree is so pretty. I used to give my mom that, hmm…I should continue that again.

Liesel- Congrats on wearing a new size! What a great accomplishment.

Kelli- Hope you reach your goal.

Deb- Hope you enjoyed your night last night.

Shawn- what a great question! My advice would be have an exercise routine that you like and to journal your food. These two make all the difference. I haven’t been able to go to my church yet with all the rain. I will probably go this Monday. I am also setting up an appointment to visit another venue on Monday as well. Glad youre having a great time here. Oh and out of curiosity, how is the weather in Europe in October? If I do the honeymoon thing, it will definitely be in Europe

Susan- Have a safe trip. Hope DS gets better fast! Merry Christmas.

 

[Cupcaker]

Lisa- I forgot to say that I can coach on 12/26 if you still need one.

 

[mikamah]

Everyone wants the miracle drug so the kids arent sick for xmas.

Im not going to stress I know it will all get done.

I hope you all have a great day. Take a moment to breathe and enjoy it!!!

I'll take some of that miracle drug. I love the optimist not stressing is key to enjoying the holiday. thanks, don't forget to take a moment too.

I'm back from the eye Dr and reading this with my new bifocal contacts! I love them! They are not one eye for distance and one eye for close, they are both the same. The area around the pupil is made for close reading and the further out you go on the lens it changes to distance viewing.
Popped into Belk after the eye Dr and got 2 pr jeans and 3 sweaters for $115. I've basically gone from XL to L on top and 18 to (tight) 16 on bottom. I need to lose 5-10 more pounds before I would wear these new jeans so I am being optimistic!!!

. Michael is still in school today

Interesting on the contacts. Congrats on going down a size!! Buying those new clothes is a great motivator not to go the other way.
And yes, michael finishes school today. We have just over a week at Christmas, depending when xmas is, and then we get a week in feb and april.

I was SOOO good and controlled without feeling deprived -- shrimp cocktail, the wedge salad with no bleu cheese & no dressing on it (I had it on the side and literally dabbed some on); 1/2 of my broiled salmon; asparagus w/a bit of the dressing on it; 1/2 baked potato; 1 small slice of bread with butter; mushrooms; 1/2 of an onion ring and 1/2 of the complimentary cheesecake they gave us for dessert.
I think the whole meal was so much more satisfying than it might have been otherwise simply because I was not stuffed. LOL! It felt great to eat part of everything except the shrimp cocktail and the salad and be completely satisfied. Oh, and I am so excited to have the rest of my salmon and baked potato for dinner tonight.

I was only down .4 this morning at my WW weigh in, but that is 7 pounds in 3 weeks. I haven't done that well in a really long time, so I am feeling like the new plan is exactly what my body needs in order to lose. I am hoping the holidays won't be too hard since we aren't entertaining much this year.

I love reading how you enjoyed your meal and made it so healthy. 7 pounds rocks!!! You have inspired me to give the new ww a try. I joined yesterday and stayed for the orientation. I love that the fruit is no points, and know that I will enjoy fruit over junk for a snack now. I'm going to start journalling on sunday.

We're going to go in December of 2013 with my son for his first trip.

Now tell me, did you start planning that trip when you were pregnant? It's never too early to start planning. I took michael for his first trip in dec for his 5th b-day, and I definitely thought about it before he was born. Dylan will be about 4 1/2 then, right? Such a great age to go. Since I've fallen in love with disney after his first trip, I think maybe I should have taken him sooner, but then I think, it may not have been as magical, and I may not have wanted to go back so much. I

Hi everyone,
I just wanted to wish everyone a safe and Merry Christmas

We're heading up to NH later this afternoon, so I won't have internet access until Christmas, and may not be on that day.

Poor DS threw up at school yesterday, so he's home with my DH today. He then got sick on the ride home, and on the couch last night

Hope ds is feeling better, and you all have a merry, magical Christmas.

May get more Sunday night but at least we will have a white Christmas.

It is so pretty, isn't it.

My friend suggested the proscuitto/asparagus tartine and it was delicious! It was like an open faced sandwich with olive tapinade on the bottom, then the pros/aspar but then all covered with cheese! I was not expecting all that cheese. Came with a small side salad too. Maybe it was not so bad since I do not feel disgustingly stuffed like I have after a few other meals this week

Well, now that I am back from lunch, DH & DS took the car to go to Cici's. (yuck!) This would be a good time for me to wrap the gifts that we had delivered here and haven't wrapped yet. Me, my Mom and my sister are going to see Secretariat at the dollar theater at 3:00. I forgot to take my friend her Christmas present at lunch so I need to drop by her house this afternoon as well. Enjoy your afternoon

Shawn

Your lunch sounds delicious. Enjoy the movie and happy wrapping.

I was about to put a link to the dresses I liked, and then I saw they were 25% off!!! I splurged and bought them. Actually, my DF bought me one and I bought the other. So here are links to dresses I bought: Whipped Butter Dress , Mystery Loves Company Dress. I love how they name all the dresses on their site. I think I will use them for either engagement pics, researhsal dinner, or any other type of party for the wedding. The Mystery Loves Company dress goes with our vintage theme that we want for the wedding.

those dresses are beautiful, and you will look gorgeous in them. Funny, both my brothers and one sister got married in october, and my other sister the end of sept. It is a beautiful time of year, and no other craziness of holidays, or summer heat. Good luck with all the planning.

I was going to make my crustless pumpkin pie this afternoon, but remembered one of the boys is allergic to nuts, and I didn't want to chop the pecans with them coming over, so I'll do it tonight after they leave. I did 40 min just dance, and then my friend called to see if I wanted to run/walk, and I said no at first, but ended up going, and we did 3 miles. The roads are clear, but the sidewalks aren't so we went down lots of side roads. No call from after school care, so michael must be feeling fine. I'll go get him in about 45 min. I really could get used being a stay at home mom, if only someone sends me a rich husband.

 

[Tauwillow]

Haven't been around because I was just way too busy with our holiday. We celebrate Yule (the winter solstice), and have a ritual on the longest night. We eat a nice dinner and then place little clay people into a cave with a tealight to represent that even in the darkness there is hope for the light and the promise of new beginnings. Afterward, everyone opens one gift.

The next morning we celebrate the birth of the sun with a special breakfast and then open the rest of our presents.

To tie it into one of the QOTDs, my favorite item is our tree topper. Since Yule is the birth of the son, our whole tree is decorated with suns and stars, and our topper is a beautiful gold leafed blazing son. We got it when our first son was just a baby and its been a part of our family ever since.

It was a really nice celebration this year, and we had a wonderful time together! Things are settling down again, and I will be around more consistently. Lets see if I can catch up with everyone here.

Just got back from my party!!! I won!!!!! $250!!!!! I won by 4% body weight!

Woohoo! Congrats! And happy anniversary too - we just went on a cruise and had the best time. It was our first, and all I can think about now is going on another one.

TAUWILLOW I was browsing through the channels, and our local PBS station has the UNC School of Arts nutcracker on!!!! If I'm remembering correctly, your son was on my TV! I DVR'd it, if you feel comfortable sharing which part he is in. I turned it on when there was a lady with a big skirt on, she rolled it up and people danced out, so I have DVR'd from that part on. I was so excited!

Thats amazing! I so wish it would air all over, my family would love to see it too. My husband and I caught opening night, but weren't able to bring everyone else.

Unfortunately, my son Ashler is in the first act - he is both the grandpa and a large mouse. (although in the tv show, he is only the grandpa - something about the quick change wasn't able to be done for the taping) He was a VERY fun grandpa though.

You can catch it again on UNC-TV Christmas Day, at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m, if you want to try and see Ashler.

I am an American who is currently living in Germany

Hello! We lived in Wurzburg, Germany for 4 years when my husband was in the Army.

Thursday Dec 23 QOTD: What small changes would you recommend to a friend just beginning their weight loss journey?

Well, I'm in the beginning of my journey so don't have much experience to share with others. That said, I'm trying to get in some exercise each day and that would probably be my recommendation as well.

I did try out our new Walk it Out game for the wii, and have enjoyed it so far. I walked 1.9 miles, but then my toes went numb and I had to stop. I might try wearing shoes next time to see if that helps.

We went to see Black Swan last night, and *wow* it was intense. It was really good though, and we were impressed with Portman's dancing in the movie. I recommend it, but its not for the faint of heart.

I was about to put a link to the dresses I liked, and then I saw they were 25% off!!! I splurged and bought them.

Oh my goodness, those dresses are SO cute! They are way out of my size range, but I would love to shop there when I reach my goal weight.

 

[SettinSail]

We are back from the movies and then Mom and I popped into KMart to look around....I think we have a bad KMart beside the movie theater, we could not find plain white tissue paper. Looked for some sleep pants for DS but only found top and bottoms for $30, more than I wanted to spend on that. Looked for the exercise videos but never could find them I will stick to Target & Walmart, I can find things alot better in there!
The movie was OK, a little melodramatic. I'm old enough to remember the actual events in the movie Speaking of which, if you forget to type in the "i" in Disboards.com it will lead you to a website for Dark Shadows....anybody else old enough to remember that show? I was VERY young when it aired

Tauwillow: thanks for sharing the pictures! Very cool! I will have to watch it on Cmas Day if possible. We aren't going to the actual ballet this year, my guys can only take it every few years Hmmm, I could see if my sister wants to go, here they have shows after Christmas too.
I want to see the Black Swan movie! Glad you had a nice family celebration!
Wurzburg....I don't know where that is, will have to google it. We are not military so we may be having quite a different experience than you did

Kathy: WOW you are rocking the exercise today!!!!! We took DS to WDW for his first trip about 6 weeks before he turned 5. It truly is a magical age and I don't think I could have enjoyed it if he was much younger than that although I see lots of very young kids at WDW and on the cruises.

Jeanette: Love both of those dresses! They will look fantastic on your petite self We got married October 1st. They told us all those years ago that Fall weddings were getting more and more popular! For the most part, you should have good weather in Europe in October, the earlier in October the better of course. We had very nice weather in Germany this October and last year we went to London the last week of October and it was wonderful. Happy planning

I have enjoyed reading everyone's responses to the QOTD. As you get closer to your goal people will be asking how you did it I think I would say to someone just starting to take it slow and make easy changes where you can that you think you will stick with. I would encourage them to look at empty calories like sodas, chips, candy, etc and be kinder to their body by filling it with healthy foods. Move as often as possible!

We are watching the evening news. Mom & Dad went to the cafeteria for dinner and I am starving right now but the guys aren't hungry yet since they pigged out at Cici's earlier. I hope by around 7:00 we will be ready to go eat and then we are going to ride around some fancy neighborhoods and look at lights. I am heartbroken by all the people affected by the mudslides in Southern California. Amazing that they were able to get the mud out of Qualcomm stadium.

Enjoy your evening

Shawn

 

[Zoesmama03]

Hi! Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.

I'm Melissa I turned 31 in November. I have one daughter, Zoë, and she is 7 going on 17. Her dad and I separated almost 4 years ago so I've been a single mom for several years now. He isn't much help and moved out of state so never sees her. Its a lot of work but well worth it. I am a certified medical assistant desperately looking for work(even if its not in that field) but unemployed currently. I can't wait to catch a break and get back to work.

This will be my 3rd BL challenge. I started in at the end of the prior and continued into the the Fall challenge where I got sidetracked and fell completely off the wagon with stress. DD and I watched all of the last season of BL and we are awaiting the start of the new season. She was rooting for Patrick the whole time so was a thrilled little girl.

 

[SettinSail]

Hi! Hope everyone has a wonderful holiday.

I'm Melissa I turned 31 in November. I have one daughter, Zoë, and she is 7 going on 17. Her dad and I separated almost 4 years ago so I've been a single mom for several years now. He isn't much help and moved out of state so never sees her. Its a lot of work but well worth it. I am a certified medical assistant desperately looking for work(even if its not in that field) but unemployed currently. I can't wait to catch a break and get back to work.

This will be my 3rd BL challenge. I started in at the end of the prior and continued into the the Fall challenge where I got sidetracked and fell completely off the wagon with stress. DD and I watched all of the last season of BL and we are awaiting the start of the new season. She was rooting for Patrick the whole time so was a thrilled little girl.

Hi Melissa! You forgot to mention wonderful amateur photographer
Hope you do catch a break soon and get a great job Glad you are joining us in the Spring Challenge

We went out to eat Mexican for supper and then went browsing through Best Buy. DS & DH played the Kinnect they had set up and DS was desparate for us to buy it again He is going to be so surprised on Christmas morning

Now we are watching "Grown Ups" and I am munching on some mixed nuts I need to get up and move the nuts

Shawn