Biggest Loser "No Excuses" 2012 Team Challenge for Losers and Maintainers!!!

[::Snow_White::]

Nice to meet everyone!!

QOTD Saturday: Probably drinking enough water. I usually didn't drink very much throughout the day so it's hard to chug down that much water.

QOTD Sunday: Well, I go back to class this week after spring break. I eat all my meals at home, luckily, so for that I just need to bring a snack for the morning and then I'll be good to go. I plan on going for 2-3 more runs outside this week and maybe a 5K at the university on Saturday. I am also doing Jillian Michaels 30DS on my off days, so getting that done! Trying to eat as many vegetables as possible and stay away from the chocolate!

---
Hope you are all having a great day! I went to a concert with a friend and we went to cheesecake factory. I looked up the cals beforehand but ended up getting snow peas & vegetables with broccoli and a bowl of fruit. They were all sides but that was the only thing in my range. The broccoli and fruit was good but I was pretty dissapointed with the whole thing. Didn't get any exercise in.

Then yesterday I didn't exercise either and had a little bit more chocolate than I should've. Was less than 200 cals over though, so it's back to work today!

Have a fabulous day.

 

[MelindaRuns]

Well, I typed in my cc number and hit the button. And I think it may be a good way to see what I am doing wrong. I entered my meals for the day so far-- all mostly SB legal and I have TWO, yes 2, points left for dinner and the rest of the day!

I had a regular premade hamburger patty for lunch (leftovers from Thursday) and it was not from lean beef (which sb doesn't allow either) so that 9 points sunk me! And i had it on a mini bagel that had the same nutrition content as a ham. bun.

And while SB encourages a small serving of nuts for snacks at 5 points I think I will be cutting back on those!

Good thing it is Saturday and week will begin on Sunday-- I am going to need all my weekly points to eat dinner tonight!

I will say that I am unimpressed with their food database though. Nearly nothing that I typed in was on the list. I had to add in some grocery items that I think should be basics to a plan like this like the specific brand of whole wheat bread, International Delight Peppermint Patty creamer and the burger patty. Couldn't find anything close enough to use.

Congrats LTS! I hope you love WW! It took me a while to get the hang of it, even though I had used it twice in the past, and now I am just in a groove with it. I hope you find your niche there, as well, because it really seems to work once you figure out what to eat, and how the tracking works. Find 'free' foods that you like. All fruits. Bananas--yum! I've practically turned into a monkey since Jan 1, but they are oh so filling and you can have as many as you want and they are FREE! Also, Green Giant makes some yummy veggie and cheese sauce frozen containers that are only one point. There is cauliflower and cheese and it is delicious. Lots of frozen veggie/sauce combinations that are one or two points. Subway sandwiches are a good idea if you're on the go. A lot of them are only 6 points for a 6 inch. Good luck, LTS!

Good morning - it feels so early today!



We say goodbye to our California houseguests late this afternoon, and then we have a fairly routine week of school, work, and activities. The big thing on my agenda is to get the girls packed for their spring week at Grandma's house! DH and I are spending the two weekends there, but the girls will stay for the whole week, so I'll need to check some long-range forecasts and figure out how much stuff they'll need, etc. It'll be amazing over spring break week to "only" have to work at our jobs. I don't think I'll cook a thing for dinner that week, which will pose its own challenges.

Last night at the Irish pub was great! I had one drink (a glass of wine), a bunch of water and Diet Coke, and an order of fish & chips with most of the breading on the fish pushed aside. We sang along with the band and had an awesome time, and I woke up tired but not hung over (!) and not bloated after a night out. I'm patting myself on the back.

One more massive meal out to go - today's brunch in DC with friends...this has been a challenging weekend! But I did get a C25K workout in yesterday despite the rainy weather - it broke just long enough for me to get out and move, and I think that helped.

Happy Sunday, everyone!

XO
Liz

Congrats on going out, having a great time, and waking up today feeling great! Awesome on the C25K workout! Did you get signed up for a race yet, or have one in you are thinking of?

I am really looking forward to getting back on track this week.

1. I will plan my dinners and make sure my kitchen is stocked with healthy foods.

2. I will start Jillian Michaels Body Revolution. I will hit it as soon as kiddos and DH walk out the door.

3. I will contact my exercise buddies and make sure that I have at least 3 fun things (tennis, racket ball, long walks, volleyball ect. on the calendar for the week.

4. I will find a race to start training for.

5. I will spend as much time outside as I can working on the yard!

It's going to be a FABULOUS week!

Sunshineminnie, it sounds like you have a plan and I love your great attitude! It IS going to be a fabulous week!

This week is our Spring Break so I am planning a lot of long walks (if the weather stays nice!) We are going out of town for a few days at the end of the week and that scares me! I have my meal routines down when I'm at home but having to eat out can get bad.

I live in a little podunk town with no real restaurants so when we get away I always want to eat all the yummy food that we don't get very often. So my plan is to research all the menu's and have healthier options ready.

Planning meals out in advance is a great way to not go overboard. This is one of my favorite things to do now! It's hard when you can't find the menu, but with a little practice it makes even making last minute menu decisions easier. Way to go!

Well, the scale is moving in the right direction here for me, finally. I feel like I have been on hold as far as weight loss goes during this challenge as much as I have been in weight loss mode. Plateaus are just common with me, I guess. I will have a good week, then plateau for a few weeks, then two good weeks, and a plateau week, etc. There is no rhyme or reason to it. I know it results from me being OP, and then not OP. It does mix things up for my body, and that is an advantage, but when I don't eat OP and its not an exercise day, plain and simple I am not going to lose weight!

I am down over 15 lbs since the beginning of this challenge, and the 170's are so close I can taste it! I hope this week brings me into that new number!

I have been running for almost two years, and logging all my runs/walks/bikes/hikes in RunKeeper for about a year and a half or maybe a little longer. It really is motivating for me to be able to look back at all my old runs and see how far I've come. I'm still slow, but I know I'm getting faster from looking at all this data. I never would have guessed that I've done that much just thinking back, but looking at all the saved workouts in RunKeeper is great!

I hope everyone has a fabulous OP day!

Melinda

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

Slow week this week school wise. Haven't gotten the meet schedule for outdoor track yet.
So the plan for the week is to clean inside, work in the yard when I can and just try to get this house under control.
My pre-plan is to do my daily grind list for daily tasks, get a menu together and do my shopping Monday. And to try to keep everyone healthy so I can get my stuff done.

Work outs must be done first thing in the morning to stay on task with that.

 

[tigger813]

Happy Sunday-

First fever free day for Izzie in a week! Still not eating very much but we will work on that. Relaxing is the plan for her today so she is ready to return to school tomorrow.

Ash and I went to church this morning. We started helping with a church fundraiser and it has started off pretty good. Doing it until Aprill 22nd so we have a ways to go! Came home and made lunch. My big meal for the day. Planning on a shake for supper and lots of water the rest of the day. Hoping to do an hour on the elliptical later today to make up for the junk I ate and drank this weekend! Just finished watching ET. Kids want to play some Wii now.

QOTD: I like this question of the day as I was thinking about my plan for the week!

Sunday- 50 minutes on the elliptical later today, 10 min Ab workout and 10 min arms

Monday- 5AM- 20 minutes on the elliptical and then 2 mile WATP, 12:30- 40 minutes on the elliptical; 10 minute Ab workout and 10 minute arms workouts

Tuesday- 5AM- 3 mile WATP, 10 minute Ab workout and 10 minute arm workout 2PM 30 minute elliptical workouts, 8PM 40 mintue elliptical workout

Wednesday- 5AM- 40 minute elliptical workout, 11AM 2 mile WATP, 2PM 10 minute Ab and arm workouts, 6pm 20 min elliptical

Thursday- 5AM 3 mile WATP, 2:15 40 minute elliptical, 6PM either walking the track or 40 minute elliptical ride, 10 min. Ab and Arm workouts

Friday- 5AM 40 minute elliptical, 2PM 3 mile WATP, 10 min Ab and arm workout

I'm pushing myself into high gear this week. I feel better when I do a lot. Going to change things up a bit and hoping that will help me get moving again. I have been a slug this weekend. I'm actually lying on a heating pad right now as my back has been aching today. I think it's from not working out much after doing a decent amount last week.

Going to have lots of shakes and protein bars this week. I will also drink extra water. I have 3 months until my cruise and I still need another bathing suit, a dress for Easter and for the cruise!

Watching Beetlejuice now and I'm thinking about a nap for a bit!

TTFN

 

[akhaloha]

QOTD for Saturday, 3/24: Aladdin's Genie has granted you one WISH that you have to use on your health. What is one thing that you would like to change immediately, without needing weeks to make it a habit?

The one thing I would love to change immediately is emotional eating. Grrrr – it gets me every time!

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

This question is perfect for today! I need to pre-plan this week so that I can start seeing some results! Last week was Spring Break for DD13 so I took off most of the week to be with her. We are also off tomorrow because it’s Prince Kuhio Day here in Hawaii. My DH has to work, but schools are closed. I always struggle with meal planning for the week. If I don’t do it on Sunday then I end up making poor choices throughout the week. So I’m working on my menu for the week right now. I am also scheduling my workouts. If I write them down in my Filofax (in pen) I will be more likely to complete them. My goal is to work out every day – alternating between cardio and strength training. So here’s to a great week!

 

[tigger813]

Just did 50 minutes on the elliptical. Watched the Good Wife from last week. It was finally available on demand!

Adjusted my schedule a bit from what I posted earlier. I still have my Ab and Arms workouts to do a bit later.

I took about an hour long nap earlier. My back was aching so I was on the heating pad and dozed a bit. Gave me energy to do the elliptical!

Time to make the family dinner. Going to have a shake or protein bar and lots more water today.

Time to watch the Tarheels game! Go HEELS!!!!!

 

[JacksLilWench]

Ahh!! I missed a day!

QOTD for Saturday, 3/24: Aladdin's Genie has granted you one WISH that you have to use on your health. What is one thing that you would like to change immediately, without needing weeks to make it a habit?

I would have to say getting into the gym. It's not that I don't WANT to do it, I just don't have the habit of it I need to get it in gear though!

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

I have most of my meal planning done. I just need to stick to it now! My schedule looks like it always does (crazy) so that makes it easier. I need to plan my workouts and my gym time- that's where my downfall comes! Fortunately my workout buddy is back in town and we're gonna hit it hard this week from now on

I also signed up yesterday morning for Weight Watchers I was so resistant to it for so long, but I couldn't do it anymore. I went with my mom to her weigh-in and she finally hit 100lbs lost!!!! I was so proud of her!!! And so inspired that I joined myself. I went through my cabinets and fridge last night and today and labeled everything with the points values...it looks like A Beautiful Mind came rolling through my house! I think it'll turn into a challenge, too- my mom and I have roughly the same amount of weight to lose to get to our goals...I told her it was on til the break of dawn! So far today I've been good and on-track with my points Can't wait to see some results!

 

[cclovesdis]

Hi Everyone!

I have been having trouble getting the Dis to open on my computer. I was able to log in for a few minutes earlier, but that was in between dinner and church. Church was a disaster. It has nothing to do with the religious part of it. My friend was a jerk to me. I don't understand why she thinks she has the right to insult me and what's more, I don't understand why I continue to call her my friend.

I'm going to post the QOTD for tomorrow now and then try to reply to all of you. Please do not be offended if I do not. It just means I am having computer difficulties. (Can you tell I'm feeling really insecure right now? )

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

Our "Fish Friday" mean this past week was GF eggplant parmesean. My dad cooked it. He cut the eggplant into thin slices and coated them in GF baking mix. For mine, he then coated them in egg substitute and then GF bread crumbs. We then fried them in canola oil and drained them. He layered the breaded eggplant with canned sauce and cheese and baked it. We served it with a side of corn pasta. There has to be a healthier way to make the meal.

 

[Mary•Poppins]

I hope this works. I could not get to the reply screen last night.

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

The one thing I have to do is bring water with me wherever I go. I am at a friend's house now. She threw her boyfriend a birthday party last night and I spent the night. The only water available was tap water and she did not recommend that I drink it. I feel so dehydrated now.

I worked very hard today to get all of my meals planned for the week. It is a very busy week (as always!). I am all set for my lunches I will take to work and the menu for the week. My hard part will be on Wednesday when it is my middle son's 17th birthday party. I always plan a dinner of the birthday boy's choice and cake and ice cream with all grandparents. I will have to watch this day so that I can have some cake and ice cream without feeling guilty about it.

Hi Everyone!

I have been having trouble getting the Dis to open on my computer. I was able to log in for a few minutes earlier, but that was in between dinner and church. Church was a disaster. It has nothing to do with the religious part of it. My friend was a jerk to me. I don't understand why she thinks she has the right to insult me and what's more, I don't understand why I continue to call her my friend.

I'm going to post the QOTD for tomorrow now and then try to reply to all of you. Please do not be offended if I do not. It just means I am having computer difficulties. (Can you tell I'm feeling really insecure right now? )

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

Our "Fish Friday" mean this past week was GF eggplant parmesean. My dad cooked it. He cut the eggplant into thin slices and coated them in GF baking mix. For mine, he then coated them in egg substitute and then GF bread crumbs. We then fried them in canola oil and drained them. He layered the breaded eggplant with canned sauce and cheese and baked it. We served it with a side of corn pasta. There has to be a healthier way to make the meal.

You have a great dad CC. That sounds pretty health friendly. Perhaps instead of frying the eggplant, he could have just put them in to bake? I have never made eggplant parmeasean so this one eludes me.

QOTD: Hmmmmm ... I would love to have spaghetti that was more low-cal. My family likes this for dinner and it is a quick one to make ... however, I avoid it since it has so many carbs in it.

 

[cclovesdis]

Just finished my "long" run (3.27 miles). It was blatantly obvious that I hadn't run in a week. ugh That and I stupidly wore brand new shoes and now have a blister. grr It was a crummy run, but it's over and I can cross that off my list!

Any run that you complete is a success in my book!

Did you go to the coast today?

Forgot to answer the QOTD: Well, like others, I would want to eat only when hungry. But also I'd want to be not such a scaredy cat. I'm kinda chicken to ride my bike because I'm afraid the cars will hit me, and I have inline skates that I'd like to break out, but am afraid of falling. So courage would be a good gift from a genie!

Do you live near a bike path? We have one nearby that is open for use year-round for biking, walking, and skating. (No skateboards-thank goodness!)

QOTD wish...I'd like the ability to instantly see the PointsPlus value of anything, anywhere (along with the nutritional stats that go into calculating the PP). As a lifetime WWer, I'd love to be able to go out to eat without having to play that guessing game all the time!

That would be one of the best things ever! Even if you aren’t following WW, PointsPlus values make sense to everyone and I know I’d change my mind if I knew an entrée had 100 P+ in it.

LTS: I think joining WW is a great idea! You are such an inspiration! You are so steadfast in losing weight and now yourself so well!

Someone else might want to chime in and confirm this, but I believe there are 2 different WW apps that you can download and that one helps you find values at the grocery store. You might be able to find a nut that has lower P+ values that way.

Susan: How are you feeling? I can’t believe your cat.

for good weather!

 

[50sjayne]

QOTD: Today I'm going to convince DH to take me to the coast. Haven't been in forever and the whales are migrating by so hope we see some!

We were there Friday and I didn't even think to check that--bummer. The only place I've seen them very close was Cape Arago a few years ago over by Coosbay and it was incredible.

...it looks like A Beautiful Mind came rolling through my house!

Was my first day back to work-- was ok, pretty uneventful. Was very tired at the end of it and I only worked 4 hours lol. I was supposed to work more but I went ahead and called someone in early. Better but still not right--y'know.

 

[cclovesdis]

My wish would be to walk away from sweets ... in particular cake!!!

I’d like to suggest the three-bite rule. You eat 3 bites of a dessert and then you are done. As I understand it, further amounts of the dessert are unnecessary for sweet tooth satisfaction.

Last night at the Irish pub was great! I had one drink (a glass of wine), a bunch of water and Diet Coke, and an order of fish & chips with most of the breading on the fish pushed aside. We sang along with the band and had an awesome time, and I woke up tired but not hung over (!) and not bloated after a night out. I'm patting myself on the back.

I am really looking forward to getting back on track this week.

1. I will plan my dinners and make sure my kitchen is stocked with healthy foods.

2. I will start Jillian Michaels Body Revolution. I will hit it as soon as kiddos and DH walk out the door.

3. I will contact my exercise buddies and make sure that I have at least 3 fun things (tennis, racket ball, long walks, volleyball ect. on the calendar for the week.

4. I will find a race to start training for.

5. I will spend as much time outside as I can working on the yard!

It's going to be a FABULOUS week!

You are already having a FABULOUS week for planning it out!

This week is our Spring Break so I am planning a lot of long walks (if the weather stays nice!) We are going out of town for a few days at the end of the week and that scares me! I have my meal routines down when I'm at home but having to eat out can get bad.

I live in a little podunk town with no real restaurants so when we get away I always want to eat all the yummy food that we don't get very often. So my plan is to research all the menu's and have healthier options ready.

You have a great plan in place!

QOTD Saturday: Probably drinking enough water. I usually didn't drink very much throughout the day so it's hard to chug down that much water.

FWIW, I drank more water today and felt so much better. I don’t remember drinking a lot of water in college come to think of it. I was always afraid of having to use the bathroom during class. Maybe you could drink an extra glass of water before you leave for school and then leave your house a few minutes earlier so that you can use the bathroom?

I have been running for almost two years, and logging all my runs/walks/bikes/hikes in RunKeeper for about a year and a half or maybe a little longer. It really is motivating for me to be able to look back at all my old runs and see how far I've come. I'm still slow, but I know I'm getting faster from looking at all this data. I never would have guessed that I've done that much just thinking back, but looking at all the saved workouts in RunKeeper is great!

What a great idea! Congrats on getting faster!

Slow week this week school wise. Haven't gotten the meet schedule for outdoor track yet.
So the plan for the week is to clean inside, work in the yard when I can and just try to get this house under control.
My pre-plan is to do my daily grind list for daily tasks, get a menu together and do my shopping Monday. And to try to keep everyone healthy so I can get my stuff done.

Work outs must be done first thing in the morning to stay on task with that.

Love it!

First fever free day for Izzie in a week! Still not eating very much but we will work on that. Relaxing is the plan for her today so she is ready to return to school tomorrow.

QOTD: I like this question of the day as I was thinking about my plan for the week!

Sunday- 50 minutes on the elliptical later today, 10 min Ab workout and 10 min arms

Monday- 5AM- 20 minutes on the elliptical and then 2 mile WATP, 12:30- 40 minutes on the elliptical; 10 minute Ab workout and 10 minute arms workouts

Tuesday- 5AM- 3 mile WATP, 10 minute Ab workout and 10 minute arm workout 2PM 30 minute elliptical workouts, 8PM 40 mintue elliptical workout

Wednesday- 5AM- 40 minute elliptical workout, 11AM 2 mile WATP, 2PM 10 minute Ab and arm workouts, 6pm 20 min elliptical

Thursday- 5AM 3 mile WATP, 2:15 40 minute elliptical, 6PM either walking the track or 40 minute elliptical ride, 10 min. Ab and Arm workouts

Friday- 5AM 40 minute elliptical, 2PM 3 mile WATP, 10 min Ab and arm workout

Great plan and for no fever!

QOTD for Saturday, 3/24: Aladdin's Genie has granted you one WISH that you have to use on your health. What is one thing that you would like to change immediately, without needing weeks to make it a habit?

The one thing I would love to change immediately is emotional eating. Grrrr – it gets me every time!



QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

This question is perfect for today! I need to pre-plan this week so that I can start seeing some results! Last week was Spring Break for DD13 so I took off most of the week to be with her. We are also off tomorrow because it’s Prince Kuhio Day here in Hawaii. My DH has to work, but schools are closed. I always struggle with meal planning for the week. If I don’t do it on Sunday then I end up making poor choices throughout the week. So I’m working on my menu for the week right now. I am also scheduling my workouts. If I write them down in my Filofax (in pen) I will be more likely to complete them. My goal is to work out every day – alternating between cardio and strength training. So here’s to a great week!

Another great plan!

I also signed up yesterday morning for Weight Watchers I was so resistant to it for so long, but I couldn't do it anymore. I went with my mom to her weigh-in and she finally hit 100lbs lost!!!! I was so proud of her!!! And so inspired that I joined myself. I went through my cabinets and fridge last night and today and labeled everything with the points values...it looks like A Beautiful Mind came rolling through my house! I think it'll turn into a challenge, too- my mom and I have roughly the same amount of weight to lose to get to our goals...I told her it was on til the break of dawn! So far today I've been good and on-track with my points Can't wait to see some results!

You are so diligent! Congrats to your Mom!

Making time for the gym is hard for me too. I think scheduling it helps IMHO.

 

[araes2102]

Hi all!! I have not stopped in since the merge... been so busy at work and at home. My office is doing a huge building move this week (after 20+ yrs in our current building) and it is crazy how much we all have to do! Good thing is that I get to work from home (well except for going into the field to see clients as needed) for 4 days Hoping to (finally) get caught up on some good DIS time! Anyway, despite being off the DIS, I have been very OP Well, except for the day we went to the Renaissance Festival. I shared a giant turkey leg with DS, enjoyed some mead, and had a sweet bread! But so worth it, had a blast! In other news, I am very frustrated with my scale! I know it isn't anything unusual to get stuck at a plateau, but I thought I would have at least lost some weight first Seriously, I have over 100lbs to lose, so why is it so hard? I lost about 20 lbs in the first month, went off program for a couple weeks and gained 4 back, then lost that about 3 weeks ago and the scale has been stuck ever since! I am getting the calories that myfitnesspal recommends (a few hundred under each day actually, but well into the "getting enough food" range), drink lots and lots of water, do cardio for anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes 5-6 days per week, and do weights 2-3 times per week. What is up? So frustrated! Anyway, just a little vent. Well, gotta get some weights in tonight. See you all a bit later this week!

 

[buzz5985]

QOTD for Saturday, 3/24: Aladdin's Genie has granted you one WISH that you have to use on your health. What is one thing that you would like to change immediately, without needing weeks to make it a habit?

I would like to easily drink 64+ oz of water throughout the day.

Somehow find that point that exercise is enjoyable.

Oops...missed QOTD!

I'm Tracey, 41 and I am a massage therapist, mother, wife, car pool coordinator, Usborne books and Herbalife Consultant, chief cook and bottle washer, etc! I've lost track as to how many of these challenges I've done! Not doing well this challenge but I need to get moving as I have about 3 months left until our cruise!

Ash and I just got back from seeing The Hunger Games! It was amazing! Can't wait to see it again!

Izzie slept part of the evening. Fever was gone when Brian put her to bed and we hope it stays that way! This has been so hard on her!

Going to go to work for about an hour tomorrow for a friend who needs a massage. Then it's home to watch movies, play games and try and make a Fish Extender for the cruise! Bought a few items to put in people's FE's on the cruise so I really need to get one made. We are going to do it together.

Heading to bed soon!

TTFN

I thought the Hunger Games movies was about a 6 on a scale of 1-10. The book was so much more intense. I have heard that people that did not read the series are enjoying the movie more.

Life got so crazy last week I missed the change of address form! Fortunately I was able to find the new Biggest Loser house today.

I am lovetoscrap or LTS as most call me. I am the moderator on the WISH board (ever get bored or want to boost your point count come say Hi to the great newbies we have post there). I started with the BL last Jan and have lost 50 pounds. I do still have another 50 to go but for now my goal is just going to be for 10 more. Things have been slow for me this challenge so I am declaring today my "new beginning" and am going to have at least a pound a week loss from now until mid June. I am a SAHM and occasional Substitute Teacher, currently working as a long term Substitute Secretary at DD12's school.

I posted a long thing on the Mickey thread this week that I will try to summarize here (with how much I talk summarize is not something I am good at!) :

I have extolled the virtues of my South Beach diet from the mountaintops since I first started following it a few years ago. I love it as a way to eat for life and I have lost 50 pounds so I must be doing something right with it. BUT, I have been in a pretty hard stall-- maintaining quite well but not losing for some time now. I have offered advice to others that when this happens it might be a good idea to shake things up and try a new approach so I have been considering that all week. I know what to eat. I know how to maintain. I think I just need more structure now to keep me from eating too much. My body's food and calorie needs are different than they were last year but I am still eating the same amounts so I think that is why I am not losing. I have been looking at a variety of options online and trying to figure out what would probably work best for me.

I have mentioned many times that I HATE weighing, measuring, journaling and counting points but I hate being 50 lbs overweight more. I think that I am going to try WW online and see if that gives me the kick in the pants I need. I have the sign up window open, my credit card is next to me, I just haven't been able to actually commit to it yet. Supposedly today is the last day of no joining fee if I sign up for 3 months or I would probably just do the 7 day trial. I considered going to my local center which is just down the street from me and very convenient but I really don't think I will go and would quit pretty quickly. I am an online, techo oriented gal and my ipod touch is my constant companion so I think having everything online is the best strategy for me. I am hoping that I can still use the South Beach principles and stay on track with WW.

Anyway, I am excited at the merge and glad to see some old loser friends and to make some new ones!

I was going to suggest a device like a bodybugg or similar device to you. Where you can actually see what you "burn" and can adjust consumption accordingly. But I see in a later post that you joined WW online. Good Luck with that.

I hope this works. I could not get to the reply screen last night.

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

The one thing I have to do is bring water with me wherever I go. I am at a friend's house now. She threw her boyfriend a birthday party last night and I spent the night. The only water available was tap water and she did not recommend that I drink it. I feel so dehydrated now.

I have a quiet week - just work and the usual sports/scouts schedule. Last week was a little crazy with Doctor's appointments for DS and DF.

Hi Everyone!

I have been having trouble getting the Dis to open on my computer. I was able to log in for a few minutes earlier, but that was in between dinner and church. Church was a disaster. It has nothing to do with the religious part of it. My friend was a jerk to me. I don't understand why she thinks she has the right to insult me and what's more, I don't understand why I continue to call her my friend.

I'm going to post the QOTD for tomorrow now and then try to reply to all of you. Please do not be offended if I do not. It just means I am having computer difficulties. (Can you tell I'm feeling really insecure right now? )

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

Our "Fish Friday" mean this past week was GF eggplant parmesean. My dad cooked it. He cut the eggplant into thin slices and coated them in GF baking mix. For mine, he then coated them in egg substitute and then GF bread crumbs. We then fried them in canola oil and drained them. He layered the breaded eggplant with canned sauce and cheese and baked it. We served it with a side of corn pasta. There has to be a healthier way to make the meal.

I love Cooking Light magazine, internet site. I can usually find a lighter version on there for anything I choose to eat.

Hi all!! I have not stopped in since the merge... been so busy at work and at home. My office is doing a huge building move this week (after 20+ yrs in our current building) and it is crazy how much we all have to do! Good thing is that I get to work from home (well except for going into the field to see clients as needed) for 4 days Hoping to (finally) get caught up on some good DIS time! Anyway, despite being off the DIS, I have been very OP Well, except for the day we went to the Renaissance Festival. I shared a giant turkey leg with DS, enjoyed some mead, and had a sweet bread! But so worth it, had a blast! In other news, I am very frustrated with my scale! I know it isn't anything unusual to get stuck at a plateau, but I thought I would have at least lost some weight first Seriously, I have over 100lbs to lose, so why is it so hard? I lost about 20 lbs in the first month, went off program for a couple weeks and gained 4 back, then lost that about 3 weeks ago and the scale has been stuck ever since! I am getting the calories that myfitnesspal recommends (a few hundred under each day actually, but well into the "getting enough food" range), drink lots and lots of water, do cardio for anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes 5-6 days per week, and do weights 2-3 times per week. What is up? So frustrated! Anyway, just a little vent. Well, gotta get some weights in tonight. See you all a bit later this week!

Sometimes you need to eat more. You may be underestimating what you are eating. I use a bodybugg and from their website a few tips I hope help.

Tips to Prevent Underestimating
Get back on track and avoid underestimating by following
these tips and practical solutions:
o Measure your servings – start by measuring what you
consume at home. Often people don’t realize their
bowl of cereal is 3-4 servings, or their “cup” of pasta is
really 2-3 cups (The typical amount restaurants serve).
o Weigh your food - Buy a food scale (available at many
grocery stores) and weigh items such as meat and
poultry. Eventually you’ll be able to accurately estimate
the proper serving sizes to reach your goals.
o Use visual images – the size of your palm is a general
guideline for an appropriate serving of meat. A tennis
ball is the size of a cup of rice or pasta.
o Use meal replacements – studies demonstrate that
using these items (bars, shakes, pre-packaged meals)
in place of regular meals can accelerate results.
o Double check food labels – check the serving size
AND the number of servings in the package. There’s
probably more than one serving in the foods you’re
eating.
o Don’t eat out of the bag – take out a certain amount
and put the bag away.
o Avoid mindless eating – snacking (especially late night
snacking) while working or watching T.V. often leads
to overeating.
o Split restaurant meals – Either split the meal or have
the server place half the meal in a to-go bag.
o Use nutritional information - More and more
restaurants are making the calorie information
available in their menus, pamphlets or online. Use this
information to guide your choices.
o Use your customized menu on the My Nutrition Plan
tab to plan your meals and snacks ahead of time.
o Take lunch and snacks from home to control portions
and avoid eating out.

Janis

 

[akhaloha]

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

Anything Mexican!!

 

[donac]

Good MOnday morning everyone.

Sorry I haven't been on this weekend. Our local high school is celebrating their 50th anniversary. The theater group invited past performers to do a revue. They picked this weekend since the last two weekends they had their musical so they just rented the lights and the sound for another weekend. My friends and I costumed a couple of numbers for the show. They also asked me to take pictures. So Sat I sat through the run through in the afternoon, went to a potluck dinner with friends and then went back with them and my dh to see the show.

I was taking pictures and a lady behind me got upset and told me to turn it off. I moved to the back. I would have loved to have seen her face later in the show. When the director came on stage he told the audience that there were 4 people that helped a lot and the show wouldn't have gone on without them and then he called the other sweatshop moms and me to stand up and take a bow. It was a very nice moment.

Yesterday we had to organize the costumes and they were going to be moved onto the stage until we have to take them back to the place we borrowed them from but not until June.

I woke up this morning with a stuffy nose and a slight sore throat. I know I am going to get observed but I can handle it.

Today is filled with classes, a math team pizza party and awards and then I have a makeup yoga class. I am hoping to get into the grocery store to shop if I can get the time in.

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[cclovesdis]

Morning!

I slept last night! I was quite surprised as last night was so emotional, but I am very happy that I had a restorative sleep! My sister called to tell us that she has a fever and is not going to work (she teaches) and the phone ringing woke me up. I can't remember the last time she had a fever so I'm sure the doctor's office will want to see her. She is planning to call, but with all the illnesses going around, they may not be having patients come in immediately. My parents visited her and my BIL on Saturday, but hopefully whatever this is stays out of our house.

I have a pretty boring day planned. I am going to spend some time job searching and I want/need to get to the gym. I also plan to get caught up with Healthy Habits so please be on the lookout for some posts regarding that. My parents went grocery shopping yesterday before I got home so I do not need to go until tomorrow. The other "fun" thing I get to do is call my health insurance company and get a few questions answered. This has been frustrating as I have called about the same issues multiple times and I keep being told that someone will call me but that hasn't happened yet. They also keep mysteriously losing my out-of-network reimbursement forms. They need the original from the doctor's office so I have to obtain one again. I called over a week ago for one and have yet to receive it so I have to call the billing dept as well. My mother decided that I need to clean my bedroom. I probably do that while I'm on hold. The insurance company always puts me on hold an the music is awful.

I'll be back after I peek at the scale for some replies.

Have a great, OP day everyone!

CC

 

[mikamah]

I hope this works. I could not get to the reply screen last night.

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

The one thing I have to do is bring water with me wherever I go. I am at a friend's house now. She threw her boyfriend a birthday party last night and I spent the night. The only water available was tap water and she did not recommend that I drink it. I feel so dehydrated now.

Well, i am off today. I was cancelled since it is a quiet week, but it was only my 4 hour shift, so I don't mind too much. Today I've already took a good walk/run with the dog, and am going to drop ds at school shortly, take another walk and then shower. I've been debating if I should go see the Hunger Games with all the hype, but I don't think I will. I have a bunch of errands I should do without ds and a dentist appt, and if I do all them, I will have extra time to dis but won't if i do a movie. The next 4 days I'm working full days, so I need to plan my dinners. I made salad and fruit salad for yesterday, and have plenty left here, so tonight will be salad for dinner with leftover lobster. I will pick up some chicken/steak to cook the other nights. Definitely having a dinner meal plan is a big help to keep me on track.

I did pretty good at the bbq yesterday, but did end with 2 congobars and 2 frosted cookies, so I could have been better. I did not bring home any sweets, and had a lobster with a little butter, probably 1 tbsp, and salad. Overall, really not too bad since it was a midafternoon meal, taking the place of lunch and dinner.

So now I will go make a shopping list and plan.

Have a marvelous monday!!!

 

[::Snow_White::]

Good morning! I'm a little late for school today so I'll have to come back and read the rest of the posts later!

Hi Everyone!

I have been having trouble getting the Dis to open on my computer. I was able to log in for a few minutes earlier, but that was in between dinner and church. Church was a disaster. It has nothing to do with the religious part of it. My friend was a jerk to me. I don't understand why she thinks she has the right to insult me and what's more, I don't understand why I continue to call her my friend.

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

Aw, that's terrible! Hope you get it sorted out!

Hmm. I think macaroni and cheese is a good one! It's a comfort food and I'm always interested in different ways to make it!

---
I found out I can't take more than 1 day off of exercise. I got a mile in outside yesterday but when I went to do 30 Day Shred I could only do half of the video, I was too tired. Oh well, today is another day!

I watched Food, Inc., a spinoff of Forks over Knives, and a speech from Greg Yourfusky who is a vegan protestor yesterday. I'm already a vegetarian, but man, I had some cheerios and milk this morning and I could barefly bring myself to drink any of the milk, I felt sick to my stomach. Those videos sure are powerful. At one point I almost cried when watching some of the slaughterhouses. I need to pick up some almond milk sometime and find a way to get my hands on more vegan cheese. I hate living in such a small town based on BBQing meat and hotdogs. There is almost no way to get any kind of vegan/vegetarian substitutes.

Ack! Well, I better be off to school since Spring break is over. Hope you all have an awesome day!

 

[luvpoohandcompany]

I hope this works. I could not get to the reply screen last night.

QOTD for Sunday, 3/25: What does your schedule look like for the rest of the week? What pre-planning do you need to do to stay on plan?

The one thing I have to do is bring water with me wherever I go. I am at a friend's house now. She threw her boyfriend a birthday party last night and I spent the night. The only water available was tap water and she did not recommend that I drink it. I feel so dehydrated now.

I tried replying yesterday but DIS was so slow for me I gave up
1. I have made out my menu plans for the week-making sure to incorporate the chinese meal I'm having on saturday with 2 girlfriends (we trained as nurses together in 1984, lived in the nurses home which was compulsory, and have been friends ever since) This is our "Christmas" dinner which has sometimes happened as late as July
2. Aiming to arrive 20 minutes early to pick my youngest up from school so that I get a short walk in first (asthma still playing up a bit so this is the best I can do at the minute)
3. Read over all my ww stuff from last time and have commited to pointing and measuring foods accurately again.
4. Using myfitnesspal to track (thanks for this Pamela)
5. When in doubt -drink(water of course)

Good morning - it feels so early today!



We say goodbye to our California houseguests late this afternoon, and then we have a fairly routine week of school, work, and activities. The big thing on my agenda is to get the girls packed for their spring week at Grandma's house! DH and I are spending the two weekends there, but the girls will stay for the whole week, so I'll need to check some long-range forecasts and figure out how much stuff they'll need, etc. It'll be amazing over spring break week to "only" have to work at our jobs. I don't think I'll cook a thing for dinner that week, which will pose its own challenges.

Last night at the Irish pub was great! I had one drink (a glass of wine), a bunch of water and Diet Coke, and an order of fish & chips with most of the breading on the fish pushed aside. We sang along with the band and had an awesome time, and I woke up tired but not hung over (!) and not bloated after a night out. I'm patting myself on the back.
Sounds like you're having great craic with your friends. Well done on partying OP
One more massive meal out to go - today's brunch in DC with friends...this has been a challenging weekend! But I did get a C25K workout in yesterday despite the rainy weather - it broke just long enough for me to get out and move, and I think that helped.
I keep getting stuck on week 3 of C25K then something gets in the way of me progressing (life mostly) but definitely going to get back to it when I get back to being able to breathe normally again
Happy Sunday, everyone!

XO
Liz

Thanks-- that Oregano oil is helping a lot. And it's making me a little nauseous--yay-finally like a real sick person--I know I didn't eat as much yesterday lol.



I'm probably working a lot. So I'll lug my vitamins around in my purse I guess, and be sure I bring water for lunch. Give myself a lot of time to cover the cuts and bruises. Oh yeah for those who don't know, to add insult to injury this week an old 50's radio that was on our headboard fell on my face while I was asleep--knocked down by a cat. the cat who did it has a tendency to fall off stuff she's sleeping on (and take the stuff with her) so I think that's what happened.

Ouch-talk about waking up with a bang! Hope you're healing ok!

Ahh!! I missed a day!



I would have to say getting into the gym. It's not that I don't WANT to do it, I just don't have the habit of it I need to get it in gear though!



I have most of my meal planning done. I just need to stick to it now! My schedule looks like it always does (crazy) so that makes it easier. I need to plan my workouts and my gym time- that's where my downfall comes! Fortunately my workout buddy is back in town and we're gonna hit it hard this week from now on

I also signed up yesterday morning for Weight Watchers I was so resistant to it for so long, but I couldn't do it anymore. I went with my mom to her weigh-in and she finally hit 100lbs lost!!!! I was so proud of her!!! And so inspired that I joined myself. I went through my cabinets and fridge last night and today and labeled everything with the points values...it looks like A Beautiful Mind came rolling through my house! I think it'll turn into a challenge, too- my mom and I have roughly the same amount of weight to lose to get to our goals...I told her it was on til the break of dawn! So far today I've been good and on-track with my points Can't wait to see some results!

Hope you love ww. My sister and I did it together a couple of years ago and decided to do it together ourselves today

Hi Everyone!

I have been having trouble getting the Dis to open on my computer. I was able to log in for a few minutes earlier, but that was in between dinner and church. Church was a disaster. It has nothing to do with the religious part of it. My friend was a jerk to me. I don't understand why she thinks she has the right to insult me and what's more, I don't understand why I continue to call her my friend.

I'm going to post the QOTD for tomorrow now and then try to reply to all of you. Please do not be offended if I do not. It just means I am having computer difficulties. (Can you tell I'm feeling really insecure right now? )

QOTD for Monday, 3/26: I am up for a challenge. What recipe would you like to see made into a healthier version? My goal is to PM you a recipe by Thursday.

I would love to know how to make pasta carbonaralower in fat or the pasta dish in Tutti Italia with peas and bacon and cream in it(cant remember the name but its soooo good and soooo bad)

Hi all!! I have not stopped in since the merge... been so busy at work and at home. My office is doing a huge building move this week (after 20+ yrs in our current building) and it is crazy how much we all have to do! Good thing is that I get to work from home (well except for going into the field to see clients as needed) for 4 days Hoping to (finally) get caught up on some good DIS time! Anyway, despite being off the DIS, I have been very OP Well, except for the day we went to the Renaissance Festival. I shared a giant turkey leg with DS, enjoyed some mead, and had a sweet bread! But so worth it, had a blast! In other news, I am very frustrated with my scale! I know it isn't anything unusual to get stuck at a plateau, but I thought I would have at least lost some weight first Seriously, I have over 100lbs to lose, so why is it so hard? I lost about 20 lbs in the first month, went off program for a couple weeks and gained 4 back, then lost that about 3 weeks ago and the scale has been stuck ever since! I am getting the calories that myfitnesspal recommends (a few hundred under each day actually, but well into the "getting enough food" range), drink lots and lots of water, do cardio for anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes 5-6 days per week, and do weights 2-3 times per week. What is up? So frustrated! Anyway, just a little vent. Well, gotta get some weights in tonight. See you all a bit later this week!

I hope things start to move in the right direction for you soon.