BL challenge ~ BLUE TEAM ~ week 5

[dare2dream]

Friday QOTD: What was your proudest moment this week concerning your new life style?

I did an excellent job Thursday. Today is another story but it could have been worse.

Hey Blue - Lucy Loser, my reporter ready to drop out, has decided to remain in the challenge. I am so happy about that.

Vija,

I am flying SouthWest for the first time this month to visit my baby, DS23, and his wife in Utah. I ALWAYS use an extender but I have heard Southwest forces overweight passengers that encroach on their neighbors to purchase an additional seat. I usually sit on the aisle next to DH to avoid this but they don't care and may still force me to purchase an extra ticket. I am scared to death about this. Not so much about purchasing an extra ticket because it will make a more comfortable flight for DH and I. When I flew to Seattle by myself in July I bought two tickets because I wanted to avoid that situation. It's just the EMBARRASSMENT that has me petrified.

Someday I will not need an extension and I will fit comfortably in my seat like a 'normal' person. Right now flying is a nightmare for me but I love to travel and my kids live all over the country, UT, WA, and CO. To see them I fly and it is always worth it in the long run. My next flight will be in May or so to CO (when the new grandbaby is born). Just think what I could lose by then with some hard work!

 

[PRINCESS VIJA]

Vija,

I am flying SouthWest for the first time this month to visit my baby, DS23, and his wife in Utah. I ALWAYS use an extender but I have heard Southwest forces overweight passengers that encroach on their neighbors to purchase an additional seat. I usually sit on the aisle next to DH to avoid this but they don't care and may still force me to purchase an extra ticket. I am scared to death about this. Not so much about purchasing an extra ticket because it will make a more comfortable flight for DH and I. When I flew to Seattle by myself in July I bought two tickets because I wanted to avoid that situation. It's just the EMBARRASSMENT that has me petrified.

Someday I will not need an extension and I will fit comfortably in my seat like a 'normal' person. Right now flying is a nightmare for me but I love to travel and my kids live all over the country, UT, WA, and CO. To see them I fly and it is always worth it in the long run. My next flight will be in May or so to CO (when the new grandbaby is born). Just think what I could lose by then with some hard work!

OK, now I am really nervous! It will be me and DD together in the 2 seats next to each other. There are no other seats available on the plane, so I would only "encroach" on her seat. The flights are now $900 for one fare. I wouldn't have that kind of money to spend when we go to check in. Oh man, I am nervous now!

 

[ReAnSt]

So I think I am up 3 pounds. I have been bad about actually reporting in. It being on a Friday is throwing me for a loop. According to the real age test I am 3 years younger then my age. Not sure how that is but I'll take it.

I need to start walking or doing other exercise. I need to figure out how to fit it in. I need to drink my water and carry breakfast, lunch and dinner with me some days. Lunch everyday.

GOOOOOOOOOOOO Blue.

 

[dare2dream]

OK, now I am really nervous! Oh man, I am nervous now!

I did not intend to make you nervous. Most airlines are OK about this. Since Southwest is one of the cheapo non seat assigning airlines they are more strict. We have never flown them before but DH wanted to this time because you can check two bags with no extra fees. He is going to do some electrical work at a friends house in the area and will be taking a bag with his tools in it. At least the friend is picking us up at the airport, letting us use one of her cars, and letting us stay with her while we are there. She is one of his internet girlfriends. He has many. I have to keep an eye on him, wink!

What airline are you flying? I'm sure you will fine.

 

[shewelch]

I did lose 1.5 lbs this week, but have been really struggling with staying on track. Thank you all for your openess and support in good weeks and bad- the Blue team is AWESOME!

 

[njmom23grls]

Last year I flew back from VT after visiting my dd in college in one of those smaller commuter planes where it's 2 seats ,an aisle, and 2 seats. I was seated next to, but had to move across the aisle, from a man from the UK who took both seats and still was in the aisle. He truly was the largest man I've ever seen. I don't remember how many seat belt extensions he needed because he was so good natured about it and would just say - "opps - bring another luv" to the flight attendant.

Of course feeling sensitive myself about my size I didn't make a fuss about changing seats like other passengers did - and I struck up a conversation with the man as he was terrified of flying (white knuckle kinda scared- moaning, mumbling, etc.) so I thought I try to take his mind off the short flight. In the course of the conversation - where do you live what do you do type thing he tells me how he wasn't charged for the extra seats and how he was surprised by that! Of course we were delayed and of course we hit turbulance but I'll never forget that he wore a size 86 pant (he told me - I didn't ask - but he was talking about the great deals he got because the pound was so much stronger to the USD and he got REAL Levi's in a size 86 - 6 pairs!), he showed me leather wallets he had purchased for his mates and all the places he went to see in VT and Montreal. He was so excited about his trip and having been able to come to America and get real Levis for a "few quid".

When we landed we said our goodbyes and they literally had one of those lifts waiting to get him off the plane - I thought about him a lot for a while. I thought about how excited he was about his trip and how no matter what his size or his health he took a journey that he had always wanted to fulfill. I guess I just wanted to post that story because I had forgotten about him until I read about people's airplane stories and it made that experience pop in my mind.

I guess it reasonated with me again because I thought about not being afraid to pursue your dreams and that we stop or limit ourselves from the life we want through fear of embarrassment or humiliation. I know I sometimes use humor as a shield against the embarrassment - you know when you know you can't fit somewhere - "Ok - my as* will be happy there but where would you like the rest of me to sit" type thing. Anyway sorry for the long rambling post - but I guess I just want to offer it as encouragement to everyone to get out there and not be afraid to live your dreams.

Happy Saturday Blue!

Lisa

 

[PRINCESS VIJA]

Last year I flew back from VT after visiting my dd in college in one of those smaller commuter planes where it's 2 seats ,an aisle, and 2 seats. I was seated next to, but had to move across the aisle, from a man from the UK who took both seats and still was in the aisle. He truly was the largest man I've ever seen. I don't remember how many seat belt extensions he needed because he was so good natured about it and would just say - "opps - bring another luv" to the flight attendant.

Of course feeling sensitive myself about my size I didn't make a fuss about changing seats like other passengers did - and I struck up a conversation with the man as he was terrified of flying (white knuckle kinda scared- moaning, mumbling, etc.) so I thought I try to take his mind off the short flight. In the course of the conversation - where do you live what do you do type thing he tells me how he wasn't charged for the extra seats and how he was surprised by that! Of course we were delayed and of course we hit turbulance but I'll never forget that he wore a size 86 pant (he told me - I didn't ask - but he was talking about the great deals he got because the pound was so much stronger to the USD and he got REAL Levi's in a size 86 - 6 pairs!), he showed me leather wallets he had purchased for his mates and all the places he went to see in VT and Montreal. He was so excited about his trip and having been able to come to America and get real Levis for a "few quid".

When we landed we said our goodbyes and they literally had one of those lifts waiting to get him off the plane - I thought about him a lot for a while. I thought about how excited he was about his trip and how no matter what his size or his health he took a journey that he had always wanted to fulfill. I guess I just wanted to post that story because I had forgotten about him until I read about people's airplane stories and it made that experience pop in my mind.

I guess it reasonated with me again because I thought about not being afraid to pursue your dreams and that we stop or limit ourselves from the life we want through fear of embarrassment or humiliation. I know I sometimes use humor as a shield against the embarrassment - you know when you know you can't fit somewhere - "Ok - my as* will be happy there but where would you like the rest of me to sit" type thing. Anyway sorry for the long rambling post - but I guess I just want to offer it as encouragement to everyone to get out there and not be afraid to live your dreams.

Happy Saturday Blue!

Lisa

Thank you for sharing this story, I am sitting here in tears, because I needed to read to not be afraid and enjoy this life. I am going to focus on having a great trip! This is my trip, my birthday present to celebrate my upcoming 4oth birthday. So I am going to have fun! Thanks for the story, I needed to hear it.

 

[hobbester]

Princess Vija you are a wonderful person and you are going to have a great trip!

This morning I fixed an omelette with mushrooms, ham and cheese. I'm still full so lunch will be very lite. After I cleaned up the kitchen I went and walked/jogged 2 miles then rode my bike around to try to cool down.

Everyday is a new day - Go Blue! - Lisa

 

[dare2dream]

I also enjoyed your story and just wanted to thank you for reaching out to that man. As I squish down the aisle of an airplane I imagine all the passengers secretly groaning and praying that they are not my seatmate. Thank you for interacting with the man and helping him to take his mind off his fears and enjoy the flight.

My first flight was in 99 by myself at the age of 40 to pick my daughter up in UT after her first year of college. I got a set of wings and a certificate from the captain on my Northwest flight. Since then I have flown many times, even on the local puddle jumpers that go to Philadelphia. Those planes are cramped alright.

No drinks or snacks will be provided on Southwest. I really hate that I can not bring bottled water from home to the airport. I do always take my empty water bottle and fill it up before the flight.

And Lisa thanks for the reminder to follow your dreams. My DIS name is my reminder to myself. I do need to work on that more actively. Right now my dream is a cruise to the Caribbean next April for my 50th birthday. I will only take the cruise if I have lost a substantial amount of weight. I'm hoping on Valentine's Day to find an incredible last minute cruise deal for the cruise of my dreams at the price of my dreams. My only criteria is a day at a private island. I want to relax on a beautiful beach with my sweetheart at my side in a new bathing suit feeling like the incredible sexy hot momma princess I really am inside for my 50th birthday. I can do this. I WILL do this.

 

[jamesnnick]

Hi Blue Team!

I lost a pound this week...not great, but still a loss. It sounds like a lot of you are struggling right now. I want you to remember that we magnify our own flaws far more than others do. When you look at your best friend, do you see her flaws, or do you see the collection of all of the things that you love about her? I challenge you to take a conscious moment to do that for yourself the next time you look in the mirror. Don't mentally point out all of your flaws, but point all of the things your best friend would say she loves about you (I would say the things you love about yourself, but it's way to easy to say there's nothing)! Look at the amazing motivation that you are providing to the people on this board. Princess Vija inspires me with her confidence in competing in that tournament. Hypermommy makes me laugh and reminds me to work hard without taking myself too seriously. All of our runners out there make me think that someday I might be able to do that too. You've all given something of yourselves to this board, and I want you to be proud of yourselves!

Have a fantastic week. Go Blue!!!

 

[Briarmom]

Briarmom , MelanieC gave you some great advice. It's true, variety is the spice of life, and maybe you do need to vary your points intake. Can you try the core plan for a week? Maybe something different? I also would take my tracker to the WW leader and see if she has some advice for you. The other thing that I might add is, are you measuring everything? Sometimes those hidden points in "guestimates" can add up.

[

I live in Europe. I have to do WW online.

ETA: I do measure everything. I am enjoying a few drinks this weekend and trying not to let it bother me that they are 'extra points'

I forgot to add this into the first post for this week.... SORRY!!!!!
Friday QOTD: What was your proudest moment this week concerning your new life style?

This is actually an EASY question for me! After I did the Jillian workout today (6th straight day in a row babaaaay!) I ran up the stairs to answer the phone. RAN. I woke up today and did not GROAN when my feet hit the stairs. I had no pain. Amazing.

 

[shewelch]

QOTD Friday: Whilst I was apologizing to my boss for under-dressing for work with my soccer gear for my half day before we left for our tournament, she said "girl, I don't blame you for wearing your soccer shirt-it looks good on you and I can tell the WW is working"


I didn't hit the scale today since we are out of town in a hotel for a soccer tourney... we tied our first game and won the second today. I coach my U13 daughter's team. GO SPIRIT!

 

[PRINCESS VIJA]

I am quick jumping on because I am so excited to share this with you guys...

There is a pic on line with my trophy!!! If you go to http://www.atkd.com/ then on the left go to photo gallery, then when you are looking at the pics scroll all the way to the bottom. My pic is in the second row from the bottom, middle pic. LOVE that trophy!!!

 

[dare2dream]

Thanks for sharing.

Look at that huge beaming smile on your face. That trophy REALLY IS taller than you!!

Way to go girlfriend!! Thanks for the inspiration.

 

[njmom23grls]

How awesome is that trophy?! Thanks for sharing

 

[jimmduck]

The trophy is amazing Vija - soooo big.

And you are amazing too.

I hear you on the airplane seats, I am not looking forward to it either end of November.

I cannot believe that they charge for two seats at some airlines. That is insulting.

Airplanes, however, are not made for big folks, I feel like the Goodyear blimp on them.

I gained weight this week folks - and I feel bad.

I did not get to WW, but I weighed in at the gym, with my shoes on, after dinner (usually do none of these things), but I am up at least 4 pounds.

Just wanted to be accountable. Don't think I remembered to write Brenda on Friday though - it was very hectic then.

And... for us Canadians, Monday is Thanksgiving, and I am having DH's family for dinner. Heaven help me.

Did manage at least 45 COW points though.

Long walk tomorrow, hoping to get 5 - 6 miles in, we will see.

Have a magical losing weekend everyone...

Linda

 

[jimmduck]

The trophy is amazing Vija - soooo big.

And you are amazing too.

I hear you on the airplane seats, I am not looking forward to it either end of November.

I cannot believe that they charge for two seats at some airlines. That is insulting.

Airplanes, however, are not made for big folks, I feel like the Goodyear blimp on them.

I gained weight this week folks - and I feel bad.

I did not get to WW, but I weighed in at the gym, with my shoes on, after dinner (usually do none of these things), but I am up at least 4 pounds.

Just wanted to be accountable. Don't think I remembered to write Brenda on Friday though - it was very hectic then.

And... for us Canadians, Monday is Thanksgiving, and I am having DH's family for dinner. Heaven help me.

Did manage at least 45 COW points though.

Long walk tomorrow, hoping to get 5 - 6 miles in, we will see.

Have a magical losing weekend everyone...

Linda

 

[Jaime]

Jaime, Hang in there! It is great that you talked to your DH and worked to figure out what wasn't working. So glad you had the courage to post. It shows true character to hang on through the tough times. We are all in this together and some days are up, and some are down. Now that you know what didn't work, you can go back to what was working for you! Slow and steady wins the race. and if you look farther down the thread... you motivated someone else to post, the strength of a team makes us all stronger.

njmom23grls, a loss is a loss, so celebrate!!!

Sparky47 I am glad that Jaime helped motivate you to post. This is "crunch time" and we need to stay on and motivate each other. Cheer each of us on and support one another. It isn't always easy to report a gain, but by doing so, it empowers us, frees us up to have a successful week to follow. I know you can do it, enjoy the beautiful weather and nice long walks.

hobbester , way to go on losing the 3#! You will be a motivator for many of us this week! Great job getting in the water and walking. Sure looks like it helped you keep on track and have a losing week!

wwwosie , congrats on losing this week. I know what you mean about the real age test. it tested me 4.4 years older. But just think, in a couple of months you can take it again, after making some changes it should show you lower! That is something to work towards, and I hope to see some great numbers soon.

MelanieC , congrats on the loss, and you are right, it is in the right direction. all those bits and pieces of weight loss really add up to big number losses! Keep up the great work.

Briarmom , MelanieC gave you some great advice. It's true, variety is the spice of life, and maybe you do need to vary your points intake. Can you try the core plan for a week? Maybe something different? I also would take my tracker to the WW leader and see if she has some advice for you. The other thing that I might add is, are you measuring everything? Sometimes those hidden points in "guestimates" can add up.

dare2dream You said it all! I will copy it again, because I couldn't have said it better myself.... this biggest loser is the best thing for us. We have a safe haven of support. No one judges us here, we are here to help one another and we totally "get" what each of us is going through. Your words are right on. And I am sending you a hug, I know you have had your ups and downs, and please know that YOU ARE WORTH IT, and YOU ARE A GREAT FRIEND, AND DESERVE all the love and acceptance in the world. Hang in there my friend.


Lifelong_Dreamer, So glad that you are here with us. Not losing can be so frustrating, but the support, hints and tips learned from this site can certainly help you along your journey.

Eeyores Butterfly, hang in there, your gain this week will be lost next week. Just a blip on the radar as you work toward a healthier you. That is great your parents have an extra laptop. I feel so lost when I don't have a computer at hand.

You are such a great leader!! Thank you so much for being so supportive of everyone including me It means a lot!

Sparky47 - I am glad that I motivated you to post...it sure makes me feel a little better.

I did pretty good this week. I lost 2#. I did have some unfortunate incidences with a dorritos bag, but I guess the evenings where I avoided snacking seemed to help. I also turned in 45 COW points. I hope to do better this week.

I am starting to dread our flight to Orlando. Why??? Because of the seat belt. Last time I had to ask for an extender. I was mortified, but my DD didn't have a clue. This time if I need to, DH will be there and again I'll be mortified. I think I will clue him in that this may happen. I am 16# lighter than when I went last year, but I don't think that it will make that big of a difference. **SIGH** I guess I'll deal with it, but it may be a VERY uncomfortable flight.

Congratulations on the weight loss!

I loved the picture with the Trophy! Pretty cool!

My dh wanted so much to buy a nissan maxima years ago...we went to test drive it and I couldn't drive it...I just didn't fit I think it really hit me hard...I know it's hard for others to understand but I really had no idea how much I needed my new lifestyle.

You are doing so great with your weight loss...if you need an extender this time just think about how great it will be next time when you don't

I forgot to add this into the first post for this week.... SORRY!!!!!
Friday QOTD: What was your proudest moment this week concerning your new life style?

This is easy The fact that I posted A few weeks ago I know I would never have

I did an excellent job Thursday. Today is another story but it could have been worse.

Hey Blue - Lucy Loser, my reporter ready to drop out, has decided to remain in the challenge. I am so happy about that.

Vija,

I am flying SouthWest for the first time this month to visit my baby, DS23, and his wife in Utah. I ALWAYS use an extender but I have heard Southwest forces overweight passengers that encroach on their neighbors to purchase an additional seat. I usually sit on the aisle next to DH to avoid this but they don't care and may still force me to purchase an extra ticket. I am scared to death about this. Not so much about purchasing an extra ticket because it will make a more comfortable flight for DH and I. When I flew to Seattle by myself in July I bought two tickets because I wanted to avoid that situation. It's just the EMBARRASSMENT that has me petrified.

Someday I will not need an extension and I will fit comfortably in my seat like a 'normal' person. Right now flying is a nightmare for me but I love to travel and my kids live all over the country, UT, WA, and CO. To see them I fly and it is always worth it in the long run. My next flight will be in May or so to CO (when the new grandbaby is born). Just think what I could lose by then with some hard work!

I really hope you have no problem with your plane ride...they just don't understand how hard this is on you...and it should never be done in a public display of anyway to cause embarrassment to you or your love ones...if this is required of you hopefully they have enough respect for you as a customer to do it in a very polite manner.

 

[Jaime]

The trophy is amazing Vija - soooo big.

And you are amazing too.

I hear you on the airplane seats, I am not looking forward to it either end of November.

I cannot believe that they charge for two seats at some airlines. That is insulting.

Airplanes, however, are not made for big folks, I feel like the Goodyear blimp on them.

I gained weight this week folks - and I feel bad.

I did not get to WW, but I weighed in at the gym, with my shoes on, after dinner (usually do none of these things), but I am up at least 4 pounds.

Just wanted to be accountable. Don't think I remembered to write Brenda on Friday though - it was very hectic then.

And... for us Canadians, Monday is Thanksgiving, and I am having DH's family for dinner. Heaven help me.

Did manage at least 45 COW points though.

Long walk tomorrow, hoping to get 5 - 6 miles in, we will see.

Have a magical losing weekend everyone...

Linda

Since you weighed after dinner with your shoes on I am sure you weight wasn't accurate...and probably not as bad as you thought.

I am so with you on Thanksgiving...after my gain last week and Thanksgiving dinner tomorrow

I did a lot of walking today with my dd...we had to sell girlguide cookies Good exercise but it does go against my healthly lifestyle...trying to get other people to buy cookies

Have a great weekend Blue Team! And thank you all so much for being so supportive.

 

[dare2dream]

Jaime,

I just read your wonderful trip report. You have a lovely family and you are beautiful. Those girls are real cuties. You are so blessed to be able to have enjoyed such an adventure with them. When my kids were growing up we were dirt poor. I called our summer vacations poor man's vacations. We went camping but had a ball (or is that bawl or brawl?) Watch out Jaime they really do grow up fast. Enjoy them now. I'm going to see my baby soon. He's 23 now. Time flies. It doesn't seem like it when you are in the trenches but some day you will look back on these years with fondness.