In search of my body...not the one I ate! Part Deux... We sit at the popular table!

[SeptemberGirl]

Okay, first things first! JODI!!!!! I am SO proud of you!!!!!

Okay so I just got signed on with AIM after 3 hours of denied username crud....no idea how to find you guys though...tried to call Kat, Liz and EriKa and no go....accept me or whatever..
HudsynMarais is my screen name

Added you as a friend - I am parkerluce!

Ok - so I saw "PETTLE" also...had to read it several times...going...pettle...pettle...what the heck is a pettle... I thought it was kettle...I'm really tired. Is there really such a thing as pettle and I'm just confused? " (I almost looked it up...like phlebotomist... but was too lazy!)


I finally caught up on reading - and house touring! Nice pics, Erika! Funny - my house colors are very similar to yours - both exterior and interior! I however, am not the techno-genius that some of you are and can't even get the pics off the digital camera without assistance. DS gets SO frustrated with me. "How many times do I have to tell you???" he'll ask....well....how many times to I have to tell YOU to pick up your cr@p? It's about the same!


Paula - congrats to you. You are AWESOME! And your attitude toward the "error" is great. You're so right - we should all be so lucky to have such a relatively minor glitch be the worse thing that happens to us!

Kat & Jodi - nice job on the weight loss. You guys rock!

Now for me....granted, I'd been on vacation so last week I was up 2.5lbs...but this week I'm DOWN 4 lbs !!! Holy crapolie! Don't know where that loss came from - but I'll take it!!!

OMG, Nancy! You rock!!! Way to lose!!!1

I don't see you on? I am katk1975. I should be on until at least 10PM. Mr Kat is home so no phone for me...

Sorry i missed you! Am on now! Maybe tomorrow night!

Sorry Dawn...your call came in while we were getting kids in bed, etc. (Remember that we are an hour later here.) I am DocErika on AIM and will look for you.

Sorry to miss you, too!

BTW I think I know what it is Lyz is torturing you with. Easy peasy.

 

[HockeyKat]

Sorry i missed you! Am on now! Maybe tomorrow night!

'Sok. Sorry I missed you back! I had to go watch BSG. I am back and will be on for another 30-45, most likely.

 

[3DisneyKids]

BTW I think I know what it is Lyz is torturing you with. Easy peasy.

I am on 3 hours sleep...no fair!

 

[3DisneyKids]

FREAKIN' FINALLY!

HI LAR IOUS!!!

SO OBVIOUS...right in front of my face!

Told you that you were the clear winner in that department! However, I am headed there myself tonight.

 

[3DisneyKids]

I finally caught up on reading - and house touring! Nice pics, Erika! Funny - my house colors are very similar to yours - both exterior and interior! I however, am not the techno-genius that some of you are and can't even get the pics off the digital camera without assistance. DS gets SO frustrated with me. "How many times do I have to tell you???" he'll ask....well....how many times to I have to tell YOU to pick up your cr@p? It's about the same!

Now for me....granted, I'd been on vacation so last week I was up 2.5lbs...but this week I'm DOWN 4 lbs !!! Holy crapolie! Don't know where that loss came from - but I'll take it!!! [/COLOR]

First CONGRATS ON THE HUMONGOUS LOSS!!! Incredible! Me? Samer. Shocking, I know. I am going to get drastic here shortly...

I keep meaning to ask you what part of CT you are in? I am there every once in a while (went to grad school in CT) to visit some folks and/or do some work, etc.

 

[DisneyWorld Delight]

So much to say, and finally time to do it.

I just got done watching Karate Kid II with Molli. That is the best dang movie.

Here's why I think so. Growing up what we listened to and watched on tv, was closely monitored. And we, (me, my 2 sisters and my brother) were allowed to watch like 4 movies. They were: Orphan Annie, Karate Kid I & II and The Outsiders. Isn't that funny. I don't know why those were "ok'd" by the mgmt. We just watched them. Alot.

(On a side note: if you've never seen The Outsiders, it's got big name actors when they were so young. Patrick Swazye , Matt Dillion, Tom Cruise , Rob Lowe, Emilio Estevez, Diane Lane, fun to watch.)

Anyway, I lost my older sisters copy of the Outsiders. About a month ago, I got on Amazon (love that joint) and ordered a replacement DVD and KK I & II for me. (and the Smurfs, Season 1, but that's another obsession.)

This movie, Karate Kid, that was imprinted on my life, had never been heard of by my 12 (going on 17) year old. I decided to introduce her to a classic. 2 weeks ago, we watched KK I. Loved it. She and Maddi, were of course, karate chopping things for 2 days. And tonight Molli and I watched KK II. I'm on a high.

Isn't it funny how a memory, or a sound, or a visual will just take you to a different place. A different feeling. Like Def Leopard's, Love Bites, I am immediately in my jr high school gym, at a dance. Mmmm...I just love good, good what? What is the name for that? It's not memories. It's more than that.

Ok, I'll move on to my comments, to you, all of my good friends, who one day, I'll say to my grandchildren, "you know in the history books, when they talk about message boards, well right there, I made some tight relationships that brought me much joy," and it'll bring me back to right now.

Lyz, is Maddi any better?

Maddi has turned the corner. She's back to annoying the heck out of big sis.

All the other outs in free! I found the thread. Yes, I had help. Thank you! I missed all of you, will be fun to meet all the new boarders. I will get caught up soon. Yes, yes, you always here me say that. Then work legal stuff happens and I lurk and send PM's.

My dream job was just posted!!!!! Please pray!!

chbc, it's about freaking time. I was about to send out a search party.

On a good note, though, I had a nice convo w/ the boss-man. He is pitching it to me to take over the support role that useless-waste-of-space was (not) fulfilling. I was afraid of it being a demotion, but in a carrot-dangling move, he said he is trying to position me for team lead when the current one leaves (which, based on his track/ambition, should be w/in the next year). I think I might take it... it would make his life easier, make the line of business very happy (they like me since I work my a$$ off), and it would also relieve some of the development pressure that I have had lately in addition to all this other time.

Kat, that is great news! Well deserved also.

I paid off my honeymoon (well, disneymoon) that was exciting!

They ran some test on my grandfather, they found a small mass on his liver, and another on his pancreas They couldn't schedule the biopsy until monday, he has been on blood thinners to they have to wait until that is out of his system.... i'm really hoping its not cancer

On the positive side - Bruce was offered a job with the VA yesterday, it's great, a federal job and it almost doubled his current income. Now we just have to grit our teeth and get through the next month or two of reference checks, background checks & federal clearances. Nothing to worry about b/c Bruce is squeaky clean, but just nervewracking, we just want him to START already. The "eh" news about this, now we have to move, so we are writing an appeal to our landlord right now to transfer our lease to another property they own about an hour closer. When will we most likely have to move? JUNE 30 Thats right, less than 2 weeks after i get home from my honeymoon. That's cool, i have nothing to do that month anyway right? Wedding? WHAT wedding? We are BEGGING in our appeal to let us transfer for Aug 1.

I cannot for the life of my think of what song i'm going to dance with my Dad to, there are so many that i love (and yes, now that i'm so close to the wedding, when they come on the radio, i turn into a teary eyed, snot nosed two year old blubbering like someone kicked my puppy, this is getting ridiculous) Any reccommendations?

Bruce and I are dancing to "when you say nothing at all" by Allison Krauss, however it was a close tie with "i could not ask for more" by sara evans..... HEEEEELP i have to tell my DJ THIS WEEKEND *facepalm*

Brcs, so sorry about your grandpa. Very scary. And like you have time and mental capacity for much more, but a possible new job for Bruce and a possible move. Whew! You have it up to here.

No suggestions for a dance. But, LOVE LOVE LOVE "when you say nothing at all." I forget that song. Thanks for reminding me.

Jodi - you rock...you are on and I am very glad for you....How was the construction workers??? If we ever get sun...they might be shirtless instead of in long johns!

BTW...glad we are in May...we get snow here tom again... Honestly...I may pack up and move into one of your homes....

Howdie Roomie!!!

Dawn,

If that is the worst thing that happens to me this week, I think I am doing pretty darn good...

second - read your lease agreement.

Goof, 1. your right about "if that's the worst thing" 2. good advice.

OKay, quick drive-by... I was -4.2 this morning, putting me at 166. Yay!!

Go Kat. Go Kat. It's Your Birthday.

I danced to "My Girl" by the Temptations with my dad. Is your dad into music? Does he have a song he'd like or a type of music you could pull from? I picked "My Girl" because it was just sweet and old school classic Motown and my dad is a fan of all popular music from Motown on. It fit my dad, if that makes sense.

There are a ton of songs, but for this one, I'd ask your Daddy. (I still call my dad Daddy, can't help it!) Go with what fits the both of you.

I was so excited to weigh in the morning that I jumped out of bed ran to pee then jumped on the scale. ARE YOU READY!!!!!! 9.2 pounds

OMG JODI - that's, well, it's, I'm speechless. When you decide to do something, you go balls to the wall.

To the rest of you, I love this thread, it makes me smile.

Me too.

LOCAL TOWN NEWS: As some of you know I own a plowing company, well one of my accounts got robbed yesterday morning but the theif did not get away with any money or his life. He had a gun on Matt (manager I'v know for years) Matt fought with him, the gun went off 3 times one in Matt's leg the other in the wall and one in the guys chest. The robber died, Matt is in the hostipal. I feel bad for Matt. He is doing alright as of this morning. Dumb Dumb people, get a life and work then you won't have to rob.

Very Scary. Thank goodness Matt wasn't killed. Very Scary.

Off to soccer in the rain...hopefully no snow - we are on the edge of it - Dan is almost under 340...he is excited...I am a samer....more later...hope all is well with you all..

Yaaay Dan. Dawn, same is good. I didn't even bother.

Does it make me a geek that I set up Mr Kat's message board for him in about 15 min? I could set one up for us at some point if DIS gets irritated at us.

That, and I left work at 3:30 to pick up a free copy of Microsoft Vista Ultimate, Server 2008, SQL 2008, Visual Studio 2008... I found some thing on slickdeals a while back that if you registered for this conference, they were giving out free software. So I went over there at lunch to register, and again on my way home to pick up the "end of day" freebies. We also got a nice MS lunchbox.

DWD, I think I found it.

Hope that all of you jump on later... Friday night 'n all that.

Kat, I think you might have been a geek before you even admitted all that. Love Ya/Mean It (seriously, I'm impressed. You're a genius. You hockey playing, piano pounding, girl in hiding, songbird.)

Ok, so I totally saw the pettle thing...got it right away. BUT...then in your edited comment there was a note to Dawn about how you like the K better, so I figured you were just goofing around and knew your mistake. I had no idea that you didn't figure it out till much later!!!

Ok, so that one doesn't count cause I saw it right away...

So the other thing...the on purpose one...Kat & Liz would get it and notice anything different...ok.... Gotta get the kids in bed then I will be on it!

I told Dawn I liked the her "K", because she is spelling your name like me, with a capital K. EriKa. (Dawn, you caught that one quick.)

I too noticed that...but since I have been critiqued on my obsessive edditing by you... ...I did not call you out on it as I figured you as a superior non freak editor of spelling errors did not care. I also caught the white writing for the first time...since my lap top is on my lap at an angle...I was like WTheck??? (Goof that was for you..)

Dawn, I have made you paranoid about editing. Edit away. You know you want to. (I unfortunately don't have an edit button.)

You didn't realize we were "white writing" before? That is too funny.

Okay so I just got signed on with AIM after 3 hours of denied username crud....no idea how to find you guys though...tried to call Kat, Liz and EriKa and no go....accept me or whatever..
HudsynMarais is my screen name

Dawn, YAAAAY. Aim is where the real fun happens. There is no set party, they just kinda randomly happen. (At least not that I know about. )

I got denied for 20 minutes my set up night too. I think every name out there is taken. Even "pleasedon'tbetaken."

Ok - so I saw "PETTLE" also...had to read it several times...going...pettle...pettle...what the heck is a pettle... I thought it was kettle...I'm really tired. Is there really such a thing as pettle and I'm just confused? " (I almost looked it up...like phlebotomist... but was too lazy!)

That is Hi Lar Ious!

Don't you use pettle's in the apple kitchen?

Now for me....granted, I'd been on vacation so last week I was up 2.5lbs...but this week I'm DOWN 4 lbs !!! Holy crapolie! Don't know where that loss came from - but I'll take it!!!

4 lbs! GO SNOW!

BTW I think I know what it is Lyz is torturing you with. Easy peasy.

That was fun.

FREAKIN' FINALLY!

HI LAR IOUS!!!

SO OBVIOUS...right in front of my face!

Told you that you were the clear winner in that department! However, I am headed there myself tonight.

'Bout Time! Maybe it's all the calories your burning. They are affecting your brain cells.

Ok, guys, off to bed. Peace Out. (yeah, and I pound my chest 2 times and give the 2 finger salute to embarrass my daughter and husband )

 

[DISNEY4XMAS]

So is everyone here just doing a diet on their own and cheering everyone else on, or are you guys on a plan?
I am on the WW program with my mom. I get weighed in on monday at WW.
In January, my Mom was having health problems and was mad because the doctor couldn't fix it. I told her to fix it herself and loose weight and get some exercise and maybe her health problems would go away on their own.

I had heard from a mutual friend that she had gone to weight watchers and she was very upset and cried through the meeting. And SHE DIDN"T TELL ME THAT SHE WAS DOING THIS she went for about two or three weeks before she told me about her going. When she told me I said well I knew and I am trying to get mondays off for the meetings. I was able to compromise with my boss and was able to get every other monday off. So I started on March 10 and I have lost 8 lbs. My Mom who has been on since I think February has lost and gains but I think her total loss is 14 lbs. I have a goal to be 140. That meant that I needed to loose 110 pounds. I am not sure what my moms goal is, but I know it is just to get healthy.
So I had a great moment last night at work a girl from the day shift who I don't see that often worked last night with me and she said she couldn't believe how much weight I had lost! I felt really great about that. If anyone has any words of wisdom for me ! I would love to hear!

 

[HockeyKat]

So is everyone here just doing a diet on their own and cheering everyone else on, or are you guys on a plan?
I am on the WW program with my mom. I get weighed in on monday at WW.
In January, my Mom was having health problems and was mad because the doctor couldn't fix it. I told her to fix it herself and loose weight and get some exercise and maybe her health problems would go away on their own.

I had heard from a mutual friend that she had gone to weight watchers and she was very upset and cried through the meeting. And SHE DIDN"T TELL ME THAT SHE WAS DOING THIS she went for about two or three weeks before she told me about her going. When she told me I said well I knew and I am trying to get mondays off for the meetings. I was able to compromise with my boss and was able to get every other monday off. So I started on March 10 and I have lost 8 lbs. My Mom who has been on since I think February has lost and gains but I think her total loss is 14 lbs. I have a goal to be 140. That meant that I needed to loose 110 pounds. I am not sure what my moms goal is, but I know it is just to get healthy.
So I had a great moment last night at work a girl from the day shift who I don't see that often worked last night with me and she said she couldn't believe how much weight I had lost! I felt really great about that. If anyone has any words of wisdom for me ! I would love to hear!

Stephanie, I think that Liz (SeptemberGirl) is on WW, and Erika (3DisneyKids) was trying it was well. Paula (goofy) is on Jenny Craig. Jodi (MamaBearJo), I believe, has been given a diet by her doctor. SnowWhite/believen/born2bird, forgive me, I am not sure which one y'all are doing?

I just do plain calorie counting. I try to keep my calories at or slightly below 1200. I also try to average 30 min of cardio a day. I do allow a cheat night about every 2-3 weeks.

As I have gotten thinner, I have turned a lot of my cardio into sports, namely ice hockey. Before I was thin enough to attempt to go back to it, though, I mostly did elliptical trainer and arc trainer, and lots and lots of crunches. I started SUPER slow, like 15 min 2-3 times a week, and built up as I felt better and dropped some weight. I do some weight training as well, maybe 1-2 time a week, but I didn't start that until maybe 3-6 mos in.

This has been a journey for me. I started at 218 in Feb of 2006, and have been slowly but surely moving down the scales, and am currently at 166. My final goal is between 140 and 150... I want to get to 150 and see how I feel. I am 5'8", so less than 140 is a bit too low for me, I think. One MAIN thing I have learned is, don't think that life will be like the Biggest Loser... be happy about each and every pound and inch, and that we live real lives and not the kind where you lose 10 lbs a week. Every little bit adds up, and it took me years to put this weight on, so I should expect it to take years to come off. Plus, just think, 1-2 lb a week, and you will be down 50-100 lbs next year!

 

[MaMabearJo]

So is everyone here just doing a diet on their own and cheering everyone else on, or are you guys on a plan?
I am on the WW program with my mom. I get weighed in on monday at WW.
In January, my Mom was having health problems and was mad because the doctor couldn't fix it. I told her to fix it herself and loose weight and get some exercise and maybe her health problems would go away on their own.

I had heard from a mutual friend that she had gone to weight watchers and she was very upset and cried through the meeting. And SHE DIDN"T TELL ME THAT SHE WAS DOING THIS she went for about two or three weeks before she told me about her going. When she told me I said well I knew and I am trying to get mondays off for the meetings. I was able to compromise with my boss and was able to get every other monday off. So I started on March 10 and I have lost 8 lbs. My Mom who has been on since I think February has lost and gains but I think her total loss is 14 lbs. I have a goal to be 140. That meant that I needed to loose 110 pounds. I am not sure what my moms goal is, but I know it is just to get healthy.
So I had a great moment last night at work a girl from the day shift who I don't see that often worked last night with me and she said she couldn't believe how much weight I had lost! I felt really great about that. If anyone has any words of wisdom for me ! I would love to hear!

Stephanie, it sounds like you are on the right track, Kat hit it on the nose, our weight did not come on over night, so we should take our time and do it right. I have been on many diets since giving birth to my last child 15 years ago, and they all have helped me lose weight, But I would always put it back on and more. I have learned something about myself and that is I am impatient when it comes to losing, I want it to happen in a few months, When you work so hard and truth be told you feel awful at times, then you lose 30 pounds (which I know is alot, but in my peanut brain was never enough) I would start back up with my old habits and the weight would come back on. I was a very athlete and in great shape around 130 to 145 until around 28 or so. Then I shot right up, my highest 294. But like I said I would lose, in fact as little as 4 years ago, I was down to 200. So I know the yo yo effects of dieting. My doctor really expressed to me how I take pride in myself for being a good mom, wife, good friend, helpful person. But how I don't treat my own body with any respect. It hurt, but true....

The weight loss journey ahead of me is long, around 122 pounds to lose, I'v already lost around 26 pounds since Dec., but know I have to do it for me, and then I can be the healthy energinc grandma I want to be (down the road of course).

Sorry for the long story, just thought I would share. Eventhough it took me awhile to jump in to this thread, I have found everyone to be very supportive, loving and caring. Hang in there.

 

[3DisneyKids]

Kat, that is great news! Well deserved also.

She's a total goddess on all levels now. Let's starting saying mean things about her behind her back...



When you decide to do something, you go balls to the wall.

I use this phrase all the time!


You didn't realize we were "white writing" before? That is too funny.

I thought everyone had caught on to that! HI LAR IOUS that it went for so long!


'Bout Time! Maybe it's all the calories your burning. They are affecting your brain cells.

No kidding. And there were LOTS of commercials last night... ...so that usually kills some as well.

So is everyone here just doing a diet on their own and cheering everyone else on, or are you guys on a plan?

Ok, so SeptemberGirl/Liz is the WW goddess of all time! She has lost over 50 pounds on WW and is still going strong. And did I mention that she is a HOTTIE?!?!? She looks so amazing having lost the weight. She knows all of the ins and outs of WW and is an amazing source of both information and inspiration.

I did WW for about 5-6 weeks or so...and I truly stand by the program...I think it is wonderful for MOST people. However, I only have about 12-13 pounds left to lose (goal is 125) and I exercise...ummm....well.... A LOT. And when you don't have much to lose and you exercise like a freakazoid, then WW is not that beneficial. So now I am with Kat and am a calorie counter. But again, I think WW is a wonderful program so I totally encourage you to stick with it.

our weight did not come on over night, so we should take our time and do it right.

I have found everyone to be very supportive, loving and caring. Hang in there.

These two statements by Jodi are dead on! These are the only two reasons I have not jumped off a cliff. I have not head a measurable is loss in weeks and weeks despite doing everything right. But I keep reminding myself that my weight didn't come on in 3 months, it's not gonna off in 3 either.

Secondly...this thread is my lifeline!

 

[HockeyKat]

Ok, so SeptemberGirl/Liz is the WW goddess of all time! She has lost over 50 pounds on WW and is still going strong. And did I mention that she is a HOTTIE?!?!? She looks so amazing having lost the weight. She knows all of the ins and outs of WW and is an amazing source of both information and inspiration.

I did WW for about 5-6 weeks or so...and I truly stand by the program...I think it is wonderful for MOST people. However, I only have about 12-13 pounds left to lose (goal is 125) and I exercise...ummm....well.... A LOT. And when you don't have much to lose and you exercise like a freakazoid, then WW is not that beneficial. So now I am with Kat and am a calorie counter. But again, I think WW is a wonderful program so I totally encourage you to stick with it.




These two statements by Jodi are dead on! These are the only two reasons I have not jumped off a cliff. I have not head a measurable is loss in weeks and weeks despite doing everything right. But I keep reminding myself that my weight didn't come on in 3 months, it's not gonna off in 3 either.

Secondly...this thread is my lifeline!

I couldn't remember if you were still on WW or not. I remember your should I or shouldn't I dialogue, but not the final decision. What was that about exercise and brain cells??

WW is basically a calorie-counting diet but with a built-in support system and a good plan behind it to ensure that you get good balanced nutrition. I am w/ E, I think WW is a great program too.

I am just am uber-researcher math geek type + cheap (don't want to pay for WW), so I do the calorie counting instead. I use the free site sparkpeople.com to track my nutrition and fitness and keep track of my goals. There is a DIS group over there, as well.

I have a kitchen scale and measuring cups and I weigh and measure all calorie-dense foods (meats, cereal, pasta, cereal, fats/oils/dressings, cheese, fruits, etc). Veggies I tend to just eyeball. Mr Kat laughs at me but I say look at the results, baby, and he shuts up.

One of my keys is to eat LOTS of bulky low-calorie stuff... veggies, salads, etc, and then what I really want in smaller quantities. Nothing is off-limits, just has to be portion-controlled. I also drink at least 64 oz of plain water a day.

Erika, how many calories did you settle on?

 

[3DisneyKids]

Now that I have responded to everyone...here is my stuff for the day....

Well, it is a Saturday in May which means only one thing...baseball! The Little League opening day was today, which means we start with a parade at 7 AM! Then opening ceremonies...the the first games.

So from 7 - till 12:30 I was cheering and coaching my kids in their various games. Each did really well. Of course, I put a zillion miles on my car and risked several speeding tickets getting everyone to each game on time and still managing to watch and coach each kid. One Saturday down, 6 more to go. I love it, though...they are adorable and fun to watch. It is just a huge commitment.

Funny story...when they hand out uniforms, they have the kids line up in height order so that they all get the right size And the jersey numbers are in height order as well. (#1 is the shortest and #12 is the tallest, etc.) All three of my kids are # 1. I will have to post pics another day because today....did I forget to mention....

It is 39 freakin' degrees and RAINING! OMG, it is frigid and raw out there. And yes, all three had full games. So we just got home and I had them get into cozy clothes and they are now all watching The Incredibles and drinking cocoa. It is May, right???

The other thing I did this morning...while doing my best Nascar impression (that was for you, Lyz...not a big thing in New England, so I can't even name one racer person), was to pick up my race registration packet.

Yes, tomorrow is the big day. My first race. It is chip timed and everything, so I got my number, my chip, all that stuff. You all have to promise me that you will be sending positive thoughts my direction between 8:45 - 9:30 tomorrow morning. Don't forget! I need all of the help I can get!

Ok, so the time thing is wigging me out a bit. If you are not done by 9:30, then they come pick you up in what is called the "Stragglers' Van..." UGH! That is my absolute worst fear.

I am trying to keep the WISH motto in my head:

Dead Last Finish
beats
Did Not Finish
which greatly trumps
Did not have the courage to start.

So tomorrow I will go to the Starting line. I am pretty terrified, but I am obligated now. Jeff is running, too, and my mom and kids are going to be waiting at the finish line and cheering.

Here's the thing...if you haven't figured it out, I am pretty competitive by nature. Lots of years in sports and coming from a big family I guess. Anyway, I know that I will be near the back of the pack. I am brand new to running and still pretty slow. (ok, really slow) And I am not feeling good about being a back-of-the-packer. Logically, I know the real victory for me is that I am going to be at the STARTING line (not the finish). I am able to see all of the amazing progress I have made with my running. But there is a part of me that is just sick about the fact that I am going to be in the back.

And then I wonder about my kids. I mean, they all know what a race is. And they are going to see their mom come in after most others. Again, logically, I know I am setting a great example for them. But that other part of me wants them to be able to see their mom beat the pants off lots of other runners.

The other thing about this race is that lots of the "skinny moms" are in it. On Friday morning, we had "summer sign up day" which is where every parent in town stands in this line that starts at 6am in order to get their kids enrolled in summer activities. And if you don't get there early, all of the programs fill up. It takes about an hour and half to move through the line. And even though it sounds awful, it is really one of the main social events of the season. They put out coffee and doughnuts and you see everyone you know, so it is fun to catch up with people, etc. Well, since I run in the morning, I went to sign-ups in my running gear. And lots of the other moms were in theirs as well, so several of us were chatting about what work-outs we were doing these days, etc. Then one of them said, "Didn't I see you running out by my house the other day?" Which of course lead to "Hey, are you doing the race on Sunday?"

Well, it turns out that most of them are doing it as well. And they are all gonna kick my a$$ in terms of time. And none of them are stressed about it. It is like, "yeah, I just decided the other day to run it since I was going to something running anyway." Totally blase about the whole thing, while I am dying inside.

Then another one said, "I am just going to keep it slow and run 9-minute miles since my husband will have to have the kids...I am going to milk it for as long as I can..." Now, in my wildest dreams I can't run 9-minute miles. ONCE I was able to run about a 9:30 and it all but killed me. I am pretty solidly doing 11 minute miles when I do my long runs, and I can go a bit faster on my short run days....but I will be thrilled to clock 10-10:30 minute miles.

"Keeping it slow at 9 minutes...." F you!

Oh one other thing...KAT--got your package in the mail today so it is on the way!

So...that is where I am right now...

 

[3DisneyKids]

Erika, how many calories did you settle on?

Well, if you remember my nutrition consultation fiasco...he said that I should be at about 1400-1500, so that is what I have been aiming for. But no results there in the 2-3 weeks I have been doing it (granted, I went on that mini-vacation in there), but still...I am going to drop it to 1200 like you and see how that goes for a while.

 

[HockeyKat]

Erika, I am rooting for you!! I am so incredibly proud of you for getting to this point. This is where *I* say, if I didn't love you, I'd hate you!

You know, I had someone say that to me the other day about the 9 min mile. I said something about them being a runner, and they were like, eh, I am not a runner, I can only do like a 9 min mile. I was thinking, holy crap, if I could do an 18 min mile I would be ecstatic!!

I can't imagine the pressure that you go through with all of the community stuff that you are involved with. That is one thing where I suppose that I am lucky to not really have a social set... I mean, work is all tech-geeks, and outside of work, well, my social life is sorely lacking, I guess. I don't have the mommy thing so that isn't a concern, and hockey you are in a LOT of figure-hiding gear for most of it. Although most of those girls are seriously in shape. I have a few female friends but most of them are misfits like I am, with no real anything given to size or shape other than encouragement. All family is far enough away to not really even be around to say anything.

Although tomorrow I get to go see my in-laws for the day. It is about an hour from here. Thankfully I like them, so it should be okay, except for the day spent in thick smoke (they both smoke like chimneys, and in the house) and trying to avoid the southern mom force-feeding syndrome.

EDIT: Looking SOOO forward to the package!! Yay!! I am going to turn around and send on to Liz...
Also, I think 1200 is a good goal. I assume that packaging and stuff is lying to me a bit, so to me that gives a good 100-200 cal cushion just in case.

 

[believen]

Yes, tomorrow is the big day. My first race. It is chip timed and everything, so I got my number, my chip, all that stuff. You all have to promise me that you will be sending positive thoughts my direction between 8:45 - 9:30 tomorrow morning. Don't forget! I need all of the help I can get!

Erika, Promise! Positive thoughts heading your way!

Liz, you look amazing. You've inpired me to stick with WW again.

I've joined a gym, just last week, I can hardly lift my arms!

Kat, I love your dining report

Dawn, I've never laughed as much as I did reading your pre trip report. Can't wait to read more.

I'm still not caught up here. Thanks for the encouragement and inspiration. Everyone posting weight loses and maintaining, is very motivational! I'm off to the gym-

Vicki

 

[DisneyWorld Delight]

so I can't even name one racer person

ummm, we'd call that a Race Car Driver.

EriKa, I feel the knot in your tummy. I understand competiton. I get unruly playing eukre. Can't imagine running, for time, against the skinny moms.

I didn't realize you only had 45 minutes to get it done. What's up with the van shaming? I don't like that.

You are right. This is your first race. You are not expected to win. Your goal should be not to trip when all the racers take off!

Just ignore that fact that SkinnyMinny is slowing to 9 minutes so she can have a minute to herself. (By the way, you don't even have to do that. Apparently your setup is better than hers before you even hit the starting line.)

Think about how much you encourage us here and that we will be sending positive energy your way and how far you've come since January 1. OMG! And thank heavens, you are not standing on the sidelines with your kiddo's waiting on Jeff!

Ok, you better post an update Sunday afternoon. I don't care if it's family day. You can give us 2 minutes. Got it.

 

[3DisneyKids]

Thanks for the support you guys! I knew I could count on you. And I will definitely post tomorrow after the race.

I just did a BAD thing, though...I thought it might calm me down to go drive the race route. My thought was that once I saw it, I would be like, "this is no big deal, of course I can run this..." Well....MISTAKE! There is .8 mile (that is almost a WHOLE mile....) that is a slow, steady UPHILL climb! UGH! I don't DO hills! Ever! I purposely choose all of my runs so that they are FLAT. And since this one is out by the beach, I assumed it would be flat. Well, it turns off the beach path for a while and goes up this stupid hill!

As for the Van o' Shame...most races have one. It is because they actually close the roads to all traffic. And they can't keep main roads closed for hours on end, so there has to be a stop time. I don't like it either.

And thanks...now I am also worried about tripping at the starting line. Hadn't even though about that nightmare...one more thing to stress about!

 

[DisneyWorld Delight]

Sorry EriKa. I can think of more, if you want me too .

And I meant to say eariler, what's up with your town, being all gung ho about greeting the sun???

Lets have a parade at 7am.

Lets have a summer sign up held at 6am. Not when the kids are in school, but when everyones houses are in an uproar for the day .

I would not cut it in your town.

 

[SeptemberGirl]

I miss like half a day and I feel like I have been away for weeks!!!

Can I just say, again, how much I adore all of you? Your support and friendship mean the world to me. You are all, without question, the most supportive people in my life on this quest for a body and weight I am satisfied with. It is truly amazing to come here are read everything you write.

Erika - you are a warrior! You are doing sooo well! I have never seen a woman handle her life with such aplomb. Those other women may run faster, but you run the better race, my friend. I agree with Kat and Lyz - I could not do what you do, all of it together. Talk about someone to look up to.

So there's your race pep talk! Can't wait to hear how it goes!

Kat, I am so proud of you and the work you have done for yourself. You are totally the reason I even attempt the scary machines at the gym! And you are my benchmark for weight loss, too - always there, so I can see where I will be one day!

Vicki, thank you. I love WW. I needed the accountability and support and I needed things to be easy. It has been great for me. I started Oct 24th and am down 54lbs.

Jodi, I am so with you, sister. You said it. We have to learn that making ourselves a priority only helps our families because we are healthy and happy.

Stephanie, I am glad you are here! We can talk WW if you want.

Lyz, glad Maddie is feeling better!

Okay, friends, I will be on IM tonight. My house might actually be back in one piece by the end of the weekend! We might not have to eat in the living room anymore. I can't wait! Talk later?

 

[MaMabearJo]

Thanks for the support you guys! I knew I could count on you. And I will definitely post tomorrow after the race.

I just did a BAD thing, though...I thought it might calm me down to go drive the race route. My thought was that once I saw it, I would be like, "this is no big deal, of course I can run this..." Well....MISTAKE! There is .8 mile (that is almost a WHOLE mile....) that is a slow, steady UPHILL climb! UGH! I don't DO hills! Ever! I purposely choose all of my runs so that they are FLAT. And since this one is out by the beach, I assumed it would be flat. Well, it turns off the beach path for a while and goes up this stupid hill!

As for the Van o' Shame...most races have one. It is because they actually close the roads to all traffic. And they can't keep main roads closed for hours on end, so there has to be a stop time. I don't like it either.

And thanks...now I am also worried about tripping at the starting line. Hadn't even though about that nightmare...one more thing to stress about!

Just thought I would throw in my well wishes on your race. I am sure you will do just fine. All's you can do is your best. You should be proud as heck of yourself,WE ALL ARE!! I will be cheering from MN


We just got home from soccer tournements, the girls won, they did really well. Our next game is at 8am sunday, then 4pm, I really think they have a chance of going all the way.

As for me I am still suffering from this cold, I have never coughed up so much crap in my life, my head feels like I'm in a fog. We went to Applebee's after the games so supper is out of they way. I am just letting my food settle in then I will walk, shower then probably hit the hay and read for awhile. Chat later.

Oh ya does anyone use orange? don't want to step on any toes Love ya guys.