Healthy Living from the INSIDE OUT - May 2016 WISH Challenge

[Oneanne]

Anyone who loves this attraction should look into a trip to San Francisco to visit the Walt Disney Family Museum. It is kind of the same, but so much bigger that if you are a Disney fan, you can spend a whole day in there! We were there last summer and we were blown away!! And for you it is even on the same coast as you!

It's on my list!

 

[piglet1979]

Love this because I know exactly the spot your talking about and we have sat there to relax a couple of times and just regroup. I love planning our days at MK and getting in all of the attractions that we want, but some day I would like to go with nothing planned, maybe not even do any rides and just people watch and enjoy seeing kids/families enjoy the happiest place on earth.

This got me thinking to my favorite spot at MK, and I'm going to go with It's a Small World. It's the only ride that I know I've been on every trip I have ever been on at MK - from my first trip when I was 6 to now. It's not that I love the ride (although I don't dislike it), but it's so relaxing on the boat and the song just takes me back to being a kid at Disney. I start thinking about riding it with my parents when I was a kid and how I'm doing the same with my kids, and then I start wondering if they will do the same with their kids... just great thoughts while riding it.

Gosh, I frickin' love being at Disney!

I feel the same way about It's a Small World. I only went once as a kid and I only remember Toon Town (said that I didn't get back with my kids before it was gone), Astro Orbitor (I went on by myself when the rest of the family went on Space Mountain, I was only 10), and Small World. I have dragged my husband on this ride every year we go back. More so for memories but I kind a like it.

 

[DVCFan1994]

Love this because I know exactly the spot your talking about and we have sat there to relax a couple of times and just regroup. I love planning our days at MK and getting in all of the attractions that we want, but some day I would like to go with nothing planned, maybe not even do any rides and just people watch and enjoy seeing kids/families enjoy the happiest place on earth.

This got me thinking to my favorite spot at MK, and I'm going to go with It's a Small World. It's the only ride that I know I've been on every trip I have ever been on at MK - from my first trip when I was 6 to now. It's not that I love the ride (although I don't dislike it), but it's so relaxing on the boat and the song just takes me back to being a kid at Disney. I start thinking about riding it with my parents when I was a kid and how I'm doing the same with my kids, and then I start wondering if they will do the same with their kids... just great thoughts while riding it.

Gosh, I frickin' love being at Disney!

I enjoyed reading this because I love Small World, but my DH hates it! It is likely on his list of top ten most annoying things in the world We went to Disney for 15 years on our own before we had kids, and I never rode it. But once my oldest was born I insisted we ride it again. DH grudgingly went, but still does not like it. Now my son can't stand it either, but my daughter loves it, so we ride it while they go get frozen lemonades usually I agree it is the nostalgia of it that appeals most to me.

 

[Ellie Badge]

I love hearing about everyone's relaxing happy places! Not sure if I have one, I guess I imagine any hotel room, curled up in bed after a hot bath, wearing the hotel's bathrobe, with either a book or watching some preposterous reality television show I would never even consider watching at home. Weird, I know!

 

[courtneybeth]

QOTD - May 10

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For today's QOTD, we are going to have a little relaxation moment (Disgust isn't too sure about this but agreed to play a long).

I want you to close your eyes, take five deep breaths, and let your happy place come into focus. Where are you? What does it feel like? Any sounds or smells? Hot sun on your face or cool wind at your shoulders? Toes in the surf or skis ready to plummet down the mountain?

Note: I don't want to know where you think your happy place is. I want to know what your subconscious comes up with.

Note 2: I'm now envisioning myself in some kind of 1970s hypnotist costume. And I look like Mrs. Roper. I am old.

This is immediately where my mind went. I'm sitting outside at the Jolly Holiday restaurant at Disneyland and this is my view.

The main street music is playing. I can smell popcorn and hear the ducks quacking as they beg for food. I'm enjoying a cake pop and all of the happy people walking by in a rush to Frontierland.

This is my happy place. This is where I want to be at this moment.

 

[Oneanne]

QOTD - May 10

View attachment 167529

For today's QOTD, we are going to have a little relaxation moment (Disgust isn't too sure about this but agreed to play a long).

I want you to close your eyes, take five deep breaths, and let your happy place come into focus. Where are you? What does it feel like? Any sounds or smells? Hot sun on your face or cool wind at your shoulders? Toes in the surf or skis ready to plummet down the mountain?

Note: I don't want to know where you think your happy place is. I want to know what your subconscious comes up with.

Note 2: I'm now envisioning myself in some kind of 1970s hypnotist costume. And I look like Mrs. Roper. I am old.

Love reading about all the Disney happy places. One of mine is to head back to France at RD for breakfast... With World Showcase being technically closed everyone stays up front and the walk is quiet and peaceful, like its your own private park. And then you get to eat... In France.

When I need beach time I go down to the most southwestern corner of Washington. I was born there so on a cellular level it always feels like home. Last February I scored my favorite room in my favorite hotel which sits right in the dunes facing the ocean at Long Beach. The room has a fire place and jacuzzi tub. The weather was perfectly wet and stormy and I did a jigsaw and knit all weekend. It was crabbing season and one might I counted lights from 27 boats out on the water. Here's a picture from that trip.

 

[Zoesmama03]

Not sure how much I'll participate this month, but I'm Sure I'll be lurking. Also guess I need to see Inside Out at some point.

I just watched it earlier this month myself. It was cute and I really enjoyed it.

I don't think Joy is my ruling emotion - I wish it was. Like a few others on here I experience Anxiety and am always anticipating the worst. I have had joyful moments mostly related to my kids. And honestly our big holiday to SoCal was the most prolonged period of joy I think we have all experienced for a long time. To just get so far away from our usual lives and all the daily stresses and just be with each other and the only thing to worry about is what new ride, food, experience, thing to see that day together was just so joyful.

I definitely want to increase joyful moments in our life more often, it is so easy to get into a negative mind frame about yourself and others around you and life in general. My kids are getting older and I still want to make sure that we have some great times together - I want them to be about being out in the world being active and seeing things together - it doesn't have to be overseas travel or even interstate - I just need to get a little more creative and organised. A few years ago I was having regular phone contact with a friend going through a very hard time, she was in a very negative place which in turn fed my negativity - it wasn't until I had less contact with her (we are still friends its just that once I started full time work I had less time to chat) that I realised how much of a downer effect it had on me.



Courtney - I love this chart with all theemotions on there - I am going to incorporate this at work - I work with kids who can have trouble recognising emotions.

Yes anxiety sucks. I've found grounding exercises to help tremendously since 90% or more of my panic attacks occur in the car. Early on I had some in grocery store lines and movie theater lines. The counselor said I was at agoraphobia stages because I'd avoid going out to avoid the uncomfortable attacks. She also said it was GAD no known causes or triggers. I now come to have found that caffeine greatly triggers it though. If I stay away I go months without any anxiety leading to panic attacks. When I do have some mild to moderate attacks I can link it to a time of caffeine consumption.

QOTD - May 3

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Congratulations San Francisco! You've ruined pizza!!

--Anger
​

Changing your lifestyle means changing your diet. And it often means trying new things. Broccoli pizza clearly wasn't for Riley (or me, but that is a different story).

What new foods have you tried on this journey? Anything that you thought you would never touch but turned out to love? New foods that Just Didn't Work?

​

Love "garbage pizza" you know whatever can be thrown on. LOL Not exactly anything but I do like broccoli on my pizza, but it depends. I try new stuff all the time. There isn't much healthy food I dislike enough to say I'd never eat it. I have tried kale and learned I really like it raw in salads and cooked in stir fry like dishes. But overall there isn't anything I'd say I would never touch besides raw fish. YUCK I'm making zoodles for the first time tonight. I got my little veggetti spiralizer tool. I may have some noodles but they aren't gluten free and I already glutened myself enough over the weekend. I'm trying to keep grains limited and gluten free but it isn't always easy. I did find my take bake has a gluten free option I will try next time. Scared of the crust but we will see. I had a kit and made homemade gluten free pizza years ago and it came out alright. One day I'll take the time to make cauliflower crust too. I'm not all anti carbs but figure I'd give it a try with the fasting glucose levels and IBS symptoms that seem linked with gluten/wheat(pastas and breads or pizza).

My mom has Celiac's. There are some really good stuff out there. For Easter she made these brownies that have peanut butter on top and then drizzled with chocolate. OMG they were so good. Very unhealthy but really good. They guys had not clue they were gluten free.

Bread is the worst and maybe noodles too. I won't try the bread. I take my mom's word on that one. The noodles are kind a weird to me.

I agree I've had some great pancake/waffle mix and pizza crust that I would have never guessed was gluten free. There is a lot that is not great out there too though. Desserts can be so yummy.

We are definitely picking up a 24 pack of water and having hubs bring his backpack so we can have water available. I am so sorry to hear that you got heat exhaustion, especially if you're not used to the humidity.

I just wanna throw this out there because it seems to be a little known tip... I just learned in 2009. Any of the service counters at Disney parks will give you FREE ice water in a cup. You're welcome!!!

I've always been a fairly healthy eater (in terms of WHAT, rather than PORTION SIZE ) (THANKS MOM!!), so most "standard" veggies weren't anything new to me (broccoli, spinach, kale, squash, carrots, tomatoes, brussel sprouts, cucumber, asparagus, green beans, beets). For new foods I have tried it more like some of the trendier new things like flaxseed, chia seed, and green smoothies (like them all). I grew up eating beets but very much lost my taste for them in my late teens and 20's..... but rediscovered them roasted a few years ago and now seek them out. New foods that didn't work....mostly things that turned out to NOT be worth the calories/SmartPoints or I discovered I may have a sensitivity to (coconut oil).

Broccoli pizza isn't so bad.... but I want more than just broccoli.... I love my pizza LOADED UP with veggies.... onions, peppers, mushroom, spinach, broccoli.... YUM!

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

Sorry I didn't make it on here at all yesterday! It was my usual busy Tuesday (school during the day and WW meeting in the evening) and I ran out of time in the morning to pop on.

Taking a moment to say to you all...........

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Have a GREAT day!.................P

Yay for Moms. I thank my mom for leading me into veggies in a way that made me enjoy them. There really aren't many I don't like. I don't like corn but that isn't a veggie anyway, really. I tolerate celery but it's not something I enjoy a lot.

QOTD - May 4​

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It's here! It's Woohoo Wednesday! Time to stand up and cheer!!!

What events of the last week are you celebrating today? Big, small, miniature, or monumental...let's woohoo!

I guess Wednesday I wasn't really celebrating much. Other than improved energy from exercise and meeting proper protein requirements for the first time in my life, probably.

It's very sad! Although if I'm going to be honest it only saddens me because it means I will never enjoy the dole whip! And the only other option is like a citrus swirl which, as we've already established, is also not my thing because I don't love citrus. Tragic.



Last night was a very rough night for me mentally. I struggle with anxiety and last night was a real struggle for me. I was up for a couple hours just trying to calm myself down. I'm woohooing today because I was able to calm down! There were a couple moments that could have spiraled into a full on panic attack had I let them but I kept calm and that's a big win some days.

That is a great thing to be able to calm it. I know what that takes. (((HUGS))) Grounding helps me when I feel a panic attack starting in the car. I hate that they happen for me primarily while in driving. It's scary.

Sorry to have missed woohoo Wednesday yesterday. I had a heartbreaking day and just couldn't get up enough spirit to share my woohoos or in any of yours. Yay to all the Happys!!!!!

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QOTD - May 5​

There was a lot of discussion yesterday about a certain New York Times article on the recedivism of Biggest Loser contestants. On one hand, we all know that the BL folks are losing weight in the most extreme way possible. On the other hand, it is scary and sobering for those of with a lot of weight to lose (or lost).

Most of the people on this thread are losing weight by making healthy eating choices, increasing activity, and trying to find ways to sustain these habits for life. What non-scale benefits have you gotten from cleaning up your diet and moving a bit (or a lot more)? Is it all about the weight loss or would you still keep up your healthy habits if you never lost another pound?

Alright it is a bit discouraging but overall I think its flawed. YES anyone losing at such a HUGE deficit(starving in my opinion between the 1000-1200 calories and then excessive exercise to make it dramatic) and returning to normal lifestyle before the show will gain it back. So I look past a lot of that and just further instill the fact it needs to be permanent changes to my lifestyle. Exercise and eating. My non scale benefit has most definitely been increased energy and endurance. I'm not sure honestly on the whole if I never lost another pound. No I'd possibly stop after a while even with the energy feeling.

Sending a big hug!!



For me the biggest non-scale benefits that I have gotten so much fitter. I used to be the person who would pick the shorted walking route, the least steep path, I would take escalators and elevators whenever I found them. Running regularly has increased my cardio vascular fitness a lot and I don't puff when I need to climb to the fourth floor. This is something that I definitely would want to keep and work hard for!

I was the opposite years ago I'd pick the stairs anyday over elevators. I hate elevators have some mild fear of them. Now that I often chose it because I don't want to be winded when I reach my destination.

That's a pretty exciting WooHoo! It's pretty special to be asked to share a bit of what you do with the students who could become the future of your profession.



Thanks! I definitely get the cost issues (I've only "traveled" internationally twice - once was Canada, and we drove, and the other trip was a family thing that my grandparents paid for part of our trip). But if you can make it to NY, there's definitely some cool stuff to do here. And if you're running around doing the tourist stuff all day, sitting in Central Park is a nice, peaceful way to relax at the end of the day.




I hope you get a chance to have WooHoo Thursday today!



Awesome question - gave me a bit to think about!
I think my knee pain has gotten better from my increased activity levels, and while I still do have knee pain sometimes, now it's more related to my activity level and not something that just randomly happens (I used to wake up with knee pain - that doesn't really happen any more).
I also feel better about my decisions when I make healthy choices. I'm someone who tends to automatically assume that I did something wrong, and if I'm eating right, then I know I'm doing something right, which is a nice little confidence booster for me.
So even if I never lose weight again (which does seem like it's happening sometimes), I'd like to think that I would try to maintain these habits just to feel better about myself!



In theory, I like the idea of the Biggest Loser, because it's trying to motivate people to take care of their health.
The problem is, the things that make a good TV show often make a terrible lifestyle change. And since TV is about the ratings ... they're more concerned with getting people to watch than with helping the contestants make sustainable change. It's sad, but unfortunately that's how it works sometimes.



Yeah ... this pricing is getting rough! Hopefully it will be worth it!

---

Hey guys!
Quick check in for me ... I am so behind schedule today! Hopefully I can get some stuff done over the next few hours and come back and tell y'all about my day later.

yes all about the ratings. It can be motivating and encouraging to see them doing it. I mean the physical part to see others my size exercising so intently.

QOTD - May 6​

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Let's talk about the dinner table! What healthy and delicious meals (whether IN or OUT) do you have planned for the weekend?

Well late because I'm so far behind but we had pizza one night and Portillo's(any near Chicago will probably know that place) but its pretty new to Arizona and its Italian beef sandwiches(about 5-6 inch sub style) and so yummy. I hate that the weekend went to the old fast food fixes. This weekend will be just about the same because I won't be home, we will be in San Diego for the weekend. But lots of walking. Probably not much swimming as the temps will be highs around 70. Burr but we are hitting the beach a lot.

Happy weekend!!!

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QOTW - May 7

It's time for our first check-in! If you haven't already, please post or send me your percentage of goal complete sometime before Monday morning. I'll run the results through the special WISH tabulating system and post our progress Monday evening!!

This morning's hike with the dog was cancelled on account of the NEVER ENDING RAIN! I'm thinking this would be a good afternoon for a blanket, a cup of tea, and the Aristocats.

Which leads to the question of the weekend!

What are some of your favorite ways to relax, chill, and take some time for yourself?

Sorry its late but I'm just shy of 25% of the way to my 8 lb goal for May. I hope I add about another 1 1/2 to 2 lbs this week. Based on my weekend it may be tough. It is looking like I may be on my own at the gym tonight. My friend has flaked a few times. Me I missed one day we had planned together because we went to see the Captain America Civil War movie that night(I went to the gym alone in the morning though )

I missed a couple days of lurking, so quick catch up...

HUGS to everyone. It seemed like this week needed it all around.



This was my main problem last time. I hit the goal number and was so relieved to have that and the wedding behind me that I just let loose. Couldn't take it anymore! And that did so much more harm than good.


So. I wanted to share this with you all because so many of you were around for my struggle last summer. I went to the doctor to have my thyroid tested because losing weight was difficult, but mainly because I was having these horrific acne break outs that I hadn't experienced before, and also hair loss. Thyroid came back fine, so they told me it was PCOS or stress. Went to the OBGYN who tested me for PCOS. The tests came back inconclusive but my testosterone was slightly elevated, so they put me on birth control and another medication - just to see how I'd respond. If I responded positively, then it must be PCOS! Well the BC made me CRAZY and the other med made me sick, so I dropped them both and suffered through the crazy acne and wore long sleeves all summer (in Memphis - FUN) and to every bridal shower and lathered on makeup. I spent a large part of the summer in tears because no one could tell me what was wrong with me and worried I had PCOS and might have a lot of difficulty when we tried to have kids. Then after the wedding, the acne magically calmed down a ton. Totally figures, right?

Well, a couple of weekends ago, the acne started up again in full force. Then a light bulb went off. What did last summer have in common with the last few weeks? My high protein/low carb diet. The majority of my protein was coming from whey powder and shakes, because there's only so much chicken and turkey you can eat in a day. So I did some research and whey can cause acne, and can cause really bad acne if you're already prone to it. What? Seriously it's that simple?!

Last weekend I cut out the whey-based protein and am already seeing a huge improvement in my skin. Hallelujah. SO frustrated we couldn't have figured this out before the wedding, but whatever. And the slightly elevated testosterone? Well going from absolutely zero physical activity to suddenly lots of physical activity including weights will increase your testosterone until your body is used to it. Not PCOS. So thank you to the 4 doctors and the 6 unneccessary prescription drugs I was given last year for absolutely nothing. Haha. Goodness.


Congrats to @courtneybeth for setting her PR at Tink this morning!

PCOS seems about as hard as celiacs to diagnose. My current Dr(a PA actually) asked if my Metformin was for diabetes or PCOS. I said well prediabetes but I suspect PCOS but never been formally diagnosed. I can't take the pill due to bp issues. I am sure there are some that they do prescribe for patients with hypertension but my understanding is they are progesterone mini pills and I hated the constant spotting I had with those while nursing my daughter. I take Metoformin and HATE it. I can't wait to get off it. The BP pill too but especially the Metformin. I did regulate my cycles though they were mostly regular in a 30-35 day span some months would go longer but since Metformin I've stayed pretty much around 28-32 but saw a lot of spotting this last one. But since I started exercising shortly before and started taking Aleve and Ibuprofen for the muscle soreness I can't be sure which has improved the cramping but one of the two things did.

QOTD - May 9​

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Happy Mood Monday!! Let's devote today to everybody's favorite emotion - disgust!!

Is disgust one of your leading emotions? Are there ways that feelings of disgust help you or hurt you on your journey?

Disgust not really leading but ever present in my weekly life I'm sure. It struck over the weekend and near the end when I realized how crazy my eating was. It really puts in perspective how I got this big to see the higher calorie days and to know if I hadn't been conscious of where I was at it would probably have been way higher yet. I think they can help motivate you to plan better. But can also hurt you buy leading to giving up or the constant start and restart cycles.

QOTD - May 10

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For today's QOTD, we are going to have a little relaxation moment (Disgust isn't too sure about this but agreed to play a long).

I want you to close your eyes, take five deep breaths, and let your happy place come into focus. Where are you? What does it feel like? Any sounds or smells? Hot sun on your face or cool wind at your shoulders? Toes in the surf or skis ready to plummet down the mountain?

Note: I don't want to know where you think your happy place is. I want to know what your subconscious comes up with.

Note 2: I'm now envisioning myself in some kind of 1970s hypnotist costume. And I look like Mrs. Roper. I am old.

Tough one. In a cool breeze yet having the warmth of some sun shining down. Lots of blue and green. Big fluffy clouds. Gently swaying on a swing. What can I say I'm a 36 year old that loves swing sets.


Okay a bit of me: I've been busy but my client was placed in assisted living yesterday so I'll have some time for a few days. Maybe I'll wait to start a new client until after I'm back from San Diego Monday. But spending the week trying to get some interviews and hopefully find a full time job to replace the unorganized company, erratic part time hours, and annoying phone calls.

25 % of the way and hoping to reach 50% Friday. Will be working hard at the gym today since I missed it last night. I did do some "cardio" dancing with my daughter on the Wii. We had gone grocery shopping and on the way home I said I still should get to the gym before I cooked dinner(it was after 7 by then) and she begged me to skip and dance with her instead. How could I resist. But I gotta make it today for my strength session too. So even if my friend can't make it because her van is in shop getting transmission repaired I will go alone. I just need to work on my playlist building so I can have good music to get me through the boringness of 45 minutes on treadmill.

I got a veggetti as mentioned above in a past QOTD response so I'm going to make some zoodles for my chicken alfredo tonight. I have a bit of planning in place and protein shake and bars to keep my fueled and energized to work hard at calorie burning and muscle retention(I don't suspect I'll gain too much with a deficit) work.

Now that I spent a couple hours at this catching up. I best spend some time on resume sending, job hunting. Then on to some housework. blah!! But will burn calories scrubbing kitchen floor on hands and knees. Trying to get it cleaned up. I like to come home from vacation to a clean house.

 

[pjlla]

Hi friends! Life is crazy busy right now and I opted to take my extra 10 minutes this morning to get a load of socks and underwear folded and put away, rather than come on here.... so sorry, but gotta have my priorities!!

Anyhow.... at work right now but "stole" a Chromebook for a few minutes to at least be able to say hello while my student is getting services! It's been a rough day.... thank GOODNESS it is a short week for me!

Tonight I will go to my WW meeting early to set up and then lock up and leave to head back to DS's high school to HOPEFULLY be able to see him compete in an event or two before I must dash back and be there for my official "opening" time of 5:15. Praying that this works out and I actually see something.... but I know he will appreciate me making the attempt. After WW I will head home for dinner (although there is nothing prepared and nothing in the crockpot because the men were out tonight) and get ready to do it all over again tomorrow!

Anyhow.... breaktime is done! TTY tomorrow.... hoping I'll have time to answer the QOTD tomorrow!.............P

 

[JacknSally]

PCOS seems about as hard as celiacs to diagnose. My current Dr(a PA actually) asked if my Metformin was for diabetes or PCOS. I said well prediabetes but I suspect PCOS but never been formally diagnosed. I can't take the pill due to bp issues. I am sure there are some that they do prescribe for patients with hypertension but my understanding is they are progesterone mini pills and I hated the constant spotting I had with those while nursing my daughter. I take Metoformin and HATE it. I can't wait to get off it. The BP pill too but especially the Metformin. I did regulate my cycles though they were mostly regular in a 30-35 day span some months would go longer but since Metformin I've stayed pretty much around 28-32 but saw a lot of spotting this last one. But since I started exercising shortly before and started taking Aleve and Ibuprofen for the muscle soreness I can't be sure which has improved the cramping but one of the two things did.

Metformin is what my OBGYN put me on with the BC. I hated it. I'm not prediabetic or diabetic so there was really no reason for me to take it. They just wanted to see how I'd respond to it. There's been some reports that people on it saw mild weight loss so they thought it would help me, since it regulates your blood sugar and that can trigger weight loss. Well, in my own research, there were not enough people who saw weight loss to really make that a selling point, and if they did see weight loss, it was minimal and really couldn't be linked to the medicine. I didn't even take it the full 30 days I was prescribed it. My cycles have always been regular unless triggered early by stress but even then have been regular afterward.

Even my OBGYN said that the only thing they saw in the test results that would lead them to PCOS, aside from the acne and hair loss, was slightly elevated testosterone. I thought I had trouble losing weight, but I really think I just have trouble doing the things I need to do in order to lose weight. Since kicking the whey protein the acne seems to be much more under control and back to just my normal few spots every now and then. I switched back to the shampoo and conditioner I used to use regularly, started parting it on the opposite side and also stopped wearing my hair in tight messy buns to help alleviate the friction and pulling, and now even the hair loss has calmed down. My PCOS diagnosis just never sat right with me and while I won't say I definitely 100% don't have PCOS, because who really knows, I feel really confident that it's not my issue.

@Lady Marie I hope that yours is as simple as nixing the whey protein, too!! I'm going to try out a few vegan proteins next week I think. I haven't come across anything that says they cause the acne, and I really like being able to supplement my protein with the shakes so I don't feel like I'm eating chicken 24/7. Haha.

@pjlla can you believe it could be so simple? So FRUSTRATINGLY simple. Haha. It feels nice, though, to have a potential answer that doesn't make me feel like something is wrong with me. I am not a fan of western medicine. I don't trust doctors and prescriptions. There's too much money behind them. Too many ulterior motives. I've also yet to find a doctor that makes me feel like they're actually listening to ME. I'm not likely to shell out $$$$$$ for drugs (with side effects that are often times worse than the issue they're treating!) when I don't feel like you actually listened to the problem. I also think so many of today's ailments can be cured or at least reduced by going back to the basics - eat better (no processed foods, no artificial additives, no chemicals) and get outside and get off the couch. I know, I sound like a hippie. Haha.

 

[Zoesmama03]

Metformin is what my OBGYN put me on with the BC. I hated it. I'm not prediabetic or diabetic so there was really no reason for me to take it. They just wanted to see how I'd respond to it. There's been some reports that people on it saw mild weight loss so they thought it would help me, since it regulates your blood sugar and that can trigger weight loss. Well, in my own research, there were not enough people who saw weight loss to really make that a selling point, and if they did see weight loss, it was minimal and really couldn't be linked to the medicine. I didn't even take it the full 30 days I was prescribed it. My cycles have always been regular unless triggered early by stress but even then have been regular afterward.

Even my OBGYN said that the only thing they saw in the test results that would lead them to PCOS, aside from the acne and hair loss, was slightly elevated testosterone. I thought I had trouble losing weight, but I really think I just have trouble doing the things I need to do in order to lose weight. Since kicking the whey protein the acne seems to be much more under control and back to just my normal few spots every now and then. I switched back to the shampoo and conditioner I used to use regularly, started parting it on the opposite side and also stopped wearing my hair in tight messy buns to help alleviate the friction and pulling, and now even the hair loss has calmed down. My PCOS diagnosis just never sat right with me and while I won't say I definitely 100% don't have PCOS, because who really knows, I feel really confident that it's not my issue.

@Lady Marie I hope that yours is as simple as nixing the whey protein, too!! I'm going to try out a few vegan proteins next week I think. I haven't come across anything that says they cause the acne, and I really like being able to supplement my protein with the shakes so I don't feel like I'm eating chicken 24/7. Haha.

@pjlla can you believe it could be so simple? So FRUSTRATINGLY simple. Haha. It feels nice, though, to have a potential answer that doesn't make me feel like something is wrong with me. I am not a fan of western medicine. I don't trust doctors and prescriptions. There's too much money behind them. Too many ulterior motives. I've also yet to find a doctor that makes me feel like they're actually listening to ME. I'm not likely to shell out $$$$$$ for drugs (with side effects that are often times worse than the issue they're treating!) when I don't feel like you actually listened to the problem. I also think so many of today's ailments can be cured or at least reduced by going back to the basics - eat better (no processed foods, no artificial additives, no chemicals) and get outside and get off the couch. I know, I sound like a hippie. Haha.

I was sick for about 2 weeks. Low appetite from being nauseous and the meds combined I lost 30 lbs within about six months(I think) back in 2014. Spent off and on in 2015 trying for awhile but never staying consistent long so mostly lost and gained same 10 lbs or so. She upped the dose to twice a day. I know mine was linked with the medication and nausea because I didn't do anything different in that time period briefly before on/off for a few months and when numbers on labs didn't change she said it was time to add it. They frequently prescribe to non diabetic but insulin resistant(PCOS big symptom) and its common treatment option to regulate cycles as well with PCOS. I have just had so many stomach issues and I've found it goes beyond the Metformin but I still would rather not take it. I'd say you are probably right and its not your issue. Most people with PCOS see long cycles. I had some that were 150+ days long. That was post breastfeeding though my cycles came back about 10 months into breastfeeding my daughter and supply dried up quick. THey were regular for a few was still on the mini pilll for a bit of that time then very sporadic often going 3 months. I also have a ton but no proven ovarian cyst which are not required to have the syndrome. And you can have them and not have PCOS too. It's very tricky. I personally feel its not fully something you have that creates the problem I still question that it comes with the weight or worsens. But thin people do get it too. I'm leaning a lot towards the gluten reduction which some newer research shows to improve things even with a moderate carb load.

Meant to add that I decided to try whey protein shake(lactose issues) because I didn't have a noticeable issue with the whey protein bars by the same company. I hope it doesn't flare up acne. Mines been reasonable lately just one here and there. But I struggled with it since puberty. argh So hoping it doesn't but though the taste of it seems good and less texture I may go back to the Vega with the greens. I liked the assurance of added greens servings. And that this brand of whey has soy. I'm wondering about mine is it real or not. I think I do have some insulin resistance but do have a majority of the PCOS symptoms. But in past the farthest a Dr went was measuring my hip to waist ratio which was proportional then but not as much now. They check my thyroid levels but that I've seen I have not had hormone checks.

 

[DisFam95]

Hi all. I'm back - although I'm not sure I was ever really hear last time. I hardly have time lately to post or check in. I really need to regain focus and start making time for myself even if it is five or 10 minutes just to do a reality check.

I haven't felt like the scales have moved up much but I sure do feel like there's been an increase in belly fat. I'm not sure if stress levels have anything to do with that.

My almost 80-year-old parents house flooded and I've been helping them out this month sorting and packing everything up contemplating moving contemplating where contemplating how, what's the best choice for them. They are in tiptop healthy shape but I just think about the reality of their age

I did really well today and logged my food and kept on plan. I just know my next day usually falls apart but I'm going to keep my focus and don't get down on myself.

My brother has become a Medifast health coach and is really trying to talk me into trying it. I'm tempted just to help him out. I know several people who have done it and had great success while on it. my attitude is just using it for a jumpstart for maybe a month. AnyWho I hope to check in more. Good luck everyone.

 

[courtneybeth]

So.... I can't go into too many details at the moment, but I'd appreciate any pixie dust (or cake pops) sent my way tomorrow (Wednesday) at 1pm PST.

Love you all.

 

[SarahDisney]

So.... I can't go into too many details at the moment, but I'd appreciate any pixie dust (or cake pops) sent my way tomorrow (Wednesday) at 1pm PST.

Love you all.

Sending some advance pixie dust and virtual cake pops now, and I'll try to remember to send more tomorrow!

 

[DisPup75]

@courtneybeth - mental reminder set to cross my fingers for you tomorrow. In the interim:

 

[DisPup75]

QOTD - May 10

View attachment 167529

For today's QOTD, we are going to have a little relaxation moment (Disgust isn't too sure about this but agreed to play a long).

I want you to close your eyes, take five deep breaths, and let your happy place come into focus. Where are you? What does it feel like? Any sounds or smells? Hot sun on your face or cool wind at your shoulders? Toes in the surf or skis ready to plummet down the mountain?

Note: I don't want to know where you think your happy place is. I want to know what your subconscious comes up with.

Note 2: I'm now envisioning myself in some kind of 1970s hypnotist costume. And I look like Mrs. Roper. I am old.

Loving reading all the responses!

If I just think about it, my happy place would be riding the PeopleMover at DisneyLAND (sob at its long ago demise) while enjoying a Dole Whip. But that isn't really my happy place. The sad truth is that Disney visits have gotten increasingly more stressful for me (particularly those that involve WDW, significantly less so for the land but I could still live without the people) and my subconscious seeks out someplace a bit more isolated.

Specifically the wilds of the Northern Maine coast. I'm on my phone right now so no quick access to photos but I just have to close my eyes to feel myself perched on a rock above the sea, a weak sun brightening the day but not causing my stupid skin to burst into flames, and the air crisp enough to be comfortable in a cotton sweater. Extra special bonus - no cell reception.

 

[HappyGrape]

Another pound gone! I lost 10.5 lbs since I joined the April wish group. I am 9 ponds away from pre DH diagnosis weight (when my weight gains started). Feels exciting!

Things are slowing down but it will be awesome to have the remaining gone by end of June. Then the vanity 10 by end of September but to be honest I will be happy once the next 9 are gone

 

[HappyGrape]

Sounds like some people need some good vibes, so I'm just going to leave this here:

Great feel good song! I will add it to my walking list

 

[4Mickeys]

Some days I hate technology - I had just written my post about my happy place and my computer wiped it

QOTD (again): My happy place relates to water - I love being by the beach but prefer swimming in a pool - so for me a lazy time on a tropical island with one of those fantastic pools with a view is perfection. My easier to get to happy place is called 'Cotton Tree' you all have heard me talk about it and post a pic previously. It is the beach/river area I exercise at with friends. Over the past 15 years it a place we regularly visit we have had birthday parties there, watched and played with my kids on the playground equipment, rode bikes and scooters along the wide pathways, had soccer and cricket games, took my kids to swimming lessons at the public swimming pool there, drank wine with friends, occasionally eaten at the upscale restaurant on the river's edge, made sandcastles. So many happy times. Here is a pic from this morning when I arrived at sunrise - we started with walking on the beach interspersed with abs, legs, back exercises until it was light enough to hit the water for a paddle.

 

[4Mickeys]

Sorry the pic is so big - paint would play with me tonight and save the resized pic properly!

@courtneybeth it will be Wednesday morning for you soon so here is your and good vibes

Goodnight from me.

 

[Flossbolna]

So.... I can't go into too many details at the moment, but I'd appreciate any pixie dust (or cake pops) sent my way tomorrow (Wednesday) at 1pm PST.

Love you all.

Will try my best to remember when I am getting ready to bed - but already sending some as a precaution right now!!