Lightspeed ahead to a healthier you! April 2016 WISH challenge... all are welcome!

[DisPup75]

Good morning and welcome to your QOTD for Thursday April 21, 2016:


Obi-Wan was a leader, teacher... JEDI MASTER throughout his entire life! He not only "talked the talk", but he "walked the walk".

View attachment 163363

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He taught, helped, led, sacrificed for his Padawan..... and he ended up with students whose talents far outreached his own.

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

What a great question!!! Honestly the people here are my greatest inspiration and source of wisdom. Like many of you, my issues are not a matter of not knowing what to do. I know exactly what works for me. I just have trouble with the little mental switch.... Being able to check in with people every day is enormous for me. Inspiration from those who are kicking butt, support when nothing is going right, and cheers over the smallest of woohoos. It is amazing!!! And while I don't really have it together right now, I can't imagine where I would be without all of you.

Bonus question. In my regular life, I am a wonderful mentor. I'm not much of a horn tooter but mentoring is something I dreaded and it turned out that it is a place where my star shines the brightest. And I love watching my baby ducks launch themselves into the stratosphere.

I say all of this because my first thought when I think of being a coach/leader/inspiration at weight loss, exercise, and healthy living, I just shudder. I'm so bad at it myself; how could I possibly help someone else? But I think one of the great secrets of the world is that the rewards of leading/teaching/mentoring are so much greater than the benefits of being taught. Sometimes you don't really learn until you teach. And sometimes going back to basics is exactly what you need to get yourself going again. And there is a lot of motivation in knowing that people are watching your example. Finally, payomh gorward the gifts you were given is always the right answer. So ABSOLUTELY YES! I want to lead and I want to inspire. And someday I hope I can do just that.

 

[dsnyfn1022]

Yay indeed!! I wonder whether all of us yesterday posting that they preferred Disneyland helped you make this decision? I think Disneyland is wonderful and an amazing place! I am sure you will love it! Where are you going to stay?

Actually I listened to the disunplugged show last week(?) and they just kept talking about how much they loved Disneyland and that's when I decided to switch! Seeing everyone on here say they preferred Disneyland just sealed the deal! We're actually staying at the Wyndham Anaheim. It's about a 10 minute drive. I wanted a rental car for SoCal exploration so I was okay with staying farther away than walking distance if it meant staying at a nice place cheaper.

 

[piglet1979]

BTW, any Survivor fans on here who were absolutely GOB-SMACKED last night at Tribal Council??!!!

I was shocked. In a way I am glad he did not use it.

 

[piglet1979]

Good morning and welcome to your QOTD for Thursday April 21, 2016:


Obi-Wan was a leader, teacher... JEDI MASTER throughout his entire life! He not only "talked the talk", but he "walked the walk".

View attachment 163363

View attachment 163364

He taught, helped, led, sacrificed for his Padawan..... and he ended up with students whose talents far outreached his own.

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

This one is tough. My husband and are doing this journey together. But for the most part it has been me. He knows so much more about calories then I do so I lean on him a lot. Lately he has been very supportive and very encouraging to me. In the past he was more of this is our own journeys and would do it on his own.

My sister has been very over weight for a long time and she has recently lost 30 pounds. Once I saw that it pushed me to do better. Nothing like a health competition between siblings.

My biggest one I think is Fitbit and MFP. Fitbit has made me have a competition with it. I will continue to get all the lines green on the app! MFP has really helped me with food. Not that I eat really bad but it has helped me keep with in a goal amount. Lately I have been eating between 1,000 and 1,200 calories and I can see that I really don't need more.

With that said today is going to be a rough day food wise. My work is going to the Indians game (as long as the rain holds off) and they are feeding us. I took the kids to get doughnuts this morning and it was from a place that I love. These are a big weakness for me. I decided before I went I was not going to get any for me. I brought a banana with me instead. It took a lot of will power but I did not get one. Then I got to work and they had doughnuts here. I swear the world is telling to eat a doughnut today . I was good and just walked right past them. I ate my banana instead. Lunch I figured I will let go a little but just try and not over do it. I can't get a workout in today because of the game and a meeting tonight. I will get my 10,000 steps though since we are walking to the game.

One last thing, This group has helped me a lot to stay motivated. You guys are great!

 

[Oneanne]

I hide my greys as well - I am resisting it as long as possible! Its amazing the assumptions people make based on looks though.



Oh no I hope you get some good questions tonight .... clearly this was a very important question for this person lol.



Sorry to hear you have an injury - good decision to rest it otherwise you might be out longer if you push it.



Glad you had a good time its fun hearing music live from 'our day' - isn't it funny when you realise we are the old people now! I wasn't a huge Duran Duran fan back in the day - I liked some of their songs. Not my like cousins - I remember them sitting in front of the TV screaming when they would come on kissing the TV lol - here is my secret band I loved back then Culture Club lol when they toured my mum said I was too young and wouldn't take me I was so devastated. Then a hundred years later in my late 20s they toured again with a few other 80's bands - and

I hide my greys as well - I am resisting it as long as possible! Its amazing the assumptions people make based on looks though.



Oh no I hope you get some good questions tonight .... clearly this was a very important question for this person lol.



Sorry to hear you have an injury - good decision to rest it otherwise you might be out longer if you push it.



Glad you had a good time its fun hearing music live from 'our day' - isn't it funny when you realise we are the old people now! I wasn't a huge Duran Duran fan back in the day - I liked some of their songs. Not my like cousins - I remember them sitting in front of the TV screaming when they would come on kissing the TV lol - here is my secret band I loved back then Culture Club lol when they toured my mum said I was too young and wouldn't take me I was so devastated. Then a hundred years later in my late 20s they toured again with a few other 80's bands - and I went with a friend from work - we had the best time haha

4Mickeys... I actually hide my white with grey! Although it does kind of turn brown as it ages.

 

[Oneanne]

I was shocked. In a way I am glad he did not use it.

Loved it! So often the players talk game and then never make it happen. This was a three part success... Aubry got her group to do what they said, Tai stood up to the guys and did what was right for him, and Scott walked out with the other idol in his pocket!

 

[Oneanne]

Good morning and welcome to your QOTD for Thursday April 21, 2016:


Obi-Wan was a leader, teacher... JEDI MASTER throughout his entire life! He not only "talked the talk", but he "walked the walk".

View attachment 163363

View attachment 163364

He taught, helped, led, sacrificed for his Padawan..... and he ended up with students whose talents far outreached his own.

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

I'm pretty much just leading myself thru, with a lot of inspiration from this group of course! I do always have a FitBit challenge going, which does really help, although this week I'm getting my 12,000 daily and I'm just in the middle of the pack.

I've reached one of my pre-vacation goals... I've been able to buy quite a few regular sized items of clothing. Yesterday I popped in to Old Navy and picked up 5 different XL tops and they all fit. I'm going back today to get one tee shirt in the other colors. And that leads to achieving one of my other vacation goals... To overpack. I'll have about a dozen tee shirts for a 7 day trip, no laundry break for this gal!

 

[Dr Gunnie]

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

No real leaders for me. If I had to choose, I would probably say this site more than anything else. I've learned a couple good tips and more importantly, it's a great place to vent and think with the daily questions which helps keep me motivated... so thank you everyone!

For me, most of it has been common sense. Don't eat McDonalds, don't eat cookies, and don’t sit on the couch all day type stuff. I'm sure I'll have to fine tune things once I get closer to my goal weight and the weight doesn't come off as fast.

I'm not leading or inspiring anyone that I know of. I always said that I didn't want to be that guy who forced what he was doing down everyone else's throats because I've seen that before and I didn't like it. If someone asks, I'll gladly speak about it or answer questions, but that's about it at this point.

 

[courtneybeth]

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

When I started this journey, I actually relied upon the WW phone app and just did as I was instructed. I was given a set number of points to eat per day and logged everything that went into my mouth - no matter if it was good or bad. It taught me to make better eating decisions and gave me an idea of what values were allocated to snacks. I also learned great habits for snacking and eating, such as buying snack-sized ziplock bags and breaking the portions up in easy to-go bags.

I don't think I've done anything miraculous to lead anyone....

Bonus question... I think coworkers and friends have seen the results of my hard work and are sort of following in my footsteps. I walk twice per day at work - so I make sure to include anyone who wants to come with me

 

[JacknSally]

I didn't get back on here yesterday to do my woohoos, so excuse the late post!


1) I ordered a new mattress topper for our bed. I don't know how often you're supposed to replace those, but our current one is 2 years old and has definitely seen better days. I'm thinking it has a big role to play in our poor sleep - I know I wake up stiff and sore in the morning and it has gotten progressively worse over the last few months, so hopefully this one will be super soft and comfy! This one has feathers and I think our current one is just a fluffy stuffing. It was also a super good deal - regularly $380 for a king size and I got it for $116 after tax and shipping. Thanks, JCP. It won't be here until Tuesday, though, and it's not available in the store to test out so hopefully it's really as fluffy and soft as it sounds like it'll be.

2) This week has been a wash exercise/health eating wise. I've really got to make a schedule and stick to it. I went out last Friday and attempted to do the first day of C25K and almost died. That was the icing on top of an already bad day and I got so discouraged after that. After some advice from @courtneybeth, though, I've gotten compression sleeves for my calves to hopefully help them not freak out as much and got a foam roller for after-walking stretches. i've also got some different protein powder/shake samples coming today and am planning to start back on my low carb/high protein diet to see if I can shed some of the weight again. i know carbs aren't bad, my body just loves carbs and never wants to let them go.


I have to remember that the goal is a 1.5lb loss a week. Not a day. I get really discouraged when I don't see the numbers melt down each day, and then I sabotage myself. I think I'm going to try to only weigh myself once a week and see if I can break the daily weighing habit. Disney/our anniversary is 26ish weeks away. I could theoretically be down anywhere from 20-40lbs between now and then if I can find something that works for me again.

As for today's QOTD, I don't really have a leader besides myself, and, well... We see how THAT'S working out. I have lots of inspiration, though, and people I aspire to be like, most of whom I've found in these threads.

 

[Flossbolna]

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

BONUS: Are you currently leading or inspiring someone else!? Perhaps you started a Biggest Loser challenge at work??

I know I have told this story quite a few times, but my three college friends definitely were my "teachers" on my first big weight loss and that was an experience that I always built on.

I started out university without knowing anyone. Here in Germany we don't have campus accommodation or so, so I had a studio apartment somewhere in Munich and commuted to university by metro. I found it really hard to meet new friends, but somehow those three girls with whom I was randomly assigned into a group on my one day of orientation long of sticked around. We would go to classes together, spend lunch breaks together and so on. I was totally shocked that these three girls wanted to be friends with me since I was a shy and overweight teenager. The other three were all tall, thin and immediately popular. I have no idea how I became part of this group, but I was quite definitely a part of them. They never made me feel that I was worth less because I was overweight and just accepted me as I was. About 2 years into my degree I started to seriously want to do something about my weight. After the first few kilos they noticed it and from then on I got so much encouragement from them. All three of them were very active, they would bike to university (I started that, too), they would go to the university fitness classes and took me along. And I learned a lot about healthy eating habits from then. We often met up to cook together and while I was the best cook of us, I learned about portion sizes and how to incorporate lots of veggies into your meal. For me, this support was vital and I was so successful. I lost over 20 kilos in that time, my lowest weight was around 135 pounds and a BMI of 21.5. I looked great. Then university ended and a whole new set of challenges started. But I know that this experience that would never have been possible without those three friends, is what helps me get motivated over and over again when I am struggling. I owe them so much! And I am very happy that all three are still a part of my life and I still count them among my dearest friends!

Bonus: I try to inspire others in my life - not by telling them what to do, but to be interested when they tell me about their weight loss troubles/journeys and challenges. But I would not say that I am doing this regularly or anything like that.

---

I need to report on a success story I had today: I was sitting down for dinner and had a simple dinner of salad and sandwich. I ate my salad and then started eating the sandwich. About two thirds through I realized that I was full. I did not need more food. So, I stopped eating and put the rest of the sandwich in the fridge. This will be a nice little snack to take to work tomorrow. All the calories for dinner were already tracked and accounted for and I even had room for a treat (an alcohol free organic shandy, very tasty!!). I am normally NEVER full, not even when I finish my dinner. So, this was huge. Not only is my body starting to tell my when it had enough, I was even able to act on it. And I really liked that sandwich, I enjoyed eating it.

 

[dsnyfn1022]

After some advice from @courtneybeth, though, I've gotten compression sleeves for my calves to hopefully help them not freak out as much and got a foam roller for after-walking stretches

Compression sleeves are the bomb diggity! And as your legs get used to running you won't need them any more. I used to get leg cramps after 30 minutes of run/walking. Now I can do 7 miles of run/walking without needing compression sleeves. SO you're not alone!


_____

Today has been good food wise but I feel like I need to vent for a moment. So when I first accepted this new position I was told that I'd be bumping up to salary instead of hourly. Well, I got my official letter today and it says that I'm hourly, not salary like I was supposed to be. SO very frustrating. My new boss is amazing and I'm going to be talking to him this evening (poor guy never stops working) but it's just so frustrating for that. I feel like I was lied to? Which wasn't anyone's intent and when I brought it to my boss's attention he immediately told me that he was not told this either. Still.

On top of it all it's been such an overwhelming week. I'm overwhelmed, stressed, annoyed, and frankly I feel a little dumb and useless. The stress of starting a new job is just so much. I'm going to participate in some much needed sweat therapy with an easy 2 mile run (taper week) and then try to not cry lol

 

[courtneybeth]

I have to remember that the goal is a 1.5lb loss a week. Not a day. I get really discouraged when I don't see the numbers melt down each day, and then I sabotage myself. I think I'm going to try to only weigh myself once a week and see if I can break the daily weighing habit

Once per week is perfect!

Great outlook on things here.

 

[4Mickeys]

We woke to the news here this morning that Prince has passed away RIP Prince - given that we were only just talking last night/yesterday about Duran Duran and music from 'our day' for some of us were you a Prince fan? What is/was your favourite song of his?

I certainly know many of his songs and like them but never bought an album. I liked Kiss, Rasberry Beret, Cream and others but these are probably my top favs.

 

[JacknSally]

We woke to the news here this morning that Prince has passed away RIP Prince - given that we were only just talking last night/yesterday about Duran Duran and music from 'our day' for some of us were you a Prince fan? What is/was your favourite song of his?

I certainly know many of his songs and like them but never bought an album. I liked Kiss, Rasberry Beret, Cream and others but these are probably my top favs.

I may only be 27 but I love Prince. Cliche as it may be, Purple Rain is probably my favorite of his, but I love so many more of his songs, too. 2016 has been devastating for the entertainment and creative world.

 

[4Mickeys]

Who has been your "leader" or "teacher" along this journey (it doesn't have to be a particular person....it could be a website or book... or WW leader? Trainer? Friend?)? And do you aspire to lead in the future??

For me most definitely this thread and the people on it. MFP has been helping to teach me about what I eat. My work friend Angela has been leading the way with our paddling/beach workouts - I'm so glad she invited me to join her

I took the kids to get doughnuts this morning and it was from a place that I love. These are a big weakness for me. I decided before I went I was not going to get any for me. I brought a banana with me instead. It took a lot of will power but I did not get one. Then I got to work and they had doughnuts here. I swear the world is telling to eat a doughnut today . I was good and just walked right past them. I ate my banana instead. Lunch I figured I will let go a little but just try and not over do it. I can't get a workout in today because of the game and a meeting tonight. I will get my 10,000 steps though since we are walking to the game.

Dancing bananas for you for that effort of resisting the call of the donut! Be proud of yourself.

I'm pretty much just leading myself thru, with a lot of inspiration from this group of course! I do always have a FitBit challenge going, which does really help, although this week I'm getting my 12,000 daily and I'm just in the middle of the pack.

I've reached one of my pre-vacation goals... I've been able to buy quite a few regular sized items of clothing. Yesterday I popped in to Old Navy and picked up 5 different XL tops and they all fit. I'm going back today to get one tee shirt in the other colors. And that leads to achieving one of my other vacation goals... To overpack. I'll have about a dozen tee shirts for a 7 day trip, no laundry break for this gal!

cheers to you for achieving that pre-vacation goal - It must feel so good to be down a size

This week has been a wash exercise/health eating wise. I've really got to make a schedule and stick to it.

This has been a similar for me - I haven't stuck to eating well but have managed to exercise 2 mornings. I am setting a goal to plan plan plan this weekend.

I get really discouraged when I don't see the numbers melt down each day, and then I sabotage myself. I think I'm going to try to only weigh myself once a week and see if I can break the daily weighing habit

I have also stopped weighting myself at the moment - I am just focusing on changing my habbits, and will hopefully start to see changes in the way my clothes fit. I will weight maybe once a week or fortnightly I think.

I need to report on a success story I had today: I was sitting down for dinner and had a simple dinner of salad and sandwich. I ate my salad and then started eating the sandwich. About two thirds through I realized that I was full. I did not need more food. So, I stopped eating and put the rest of the sandwich in the fridge. This will be a nice little snack to take to work tomorrow. All the calories for dinner were already tracked and accounted for and I even had room for a treat (an alcohol free organic shandy, very tasty!!). I am normally NEVER full, not even when I finish my dinner. So, this was huge. Not only is my body starting to tell my when it had enough, I was even able to act on it. And I really liked that sandwich, I enjoyed eating it.

- This is actually one of the things the dietician talked to me about the other day - she said we need to stop eating when we are no longer hungry - not when we are full - so you are on your way.

I started out university without knowing anyone. Here in Germany we don't have campus accommodation or so, so I had a studio apartment somewhere in Munich and commuted to university by metro. I found it really hard to meet new friends, but somehow those three girls with whom I was randomly assigned into a group on my one day of orientation long of sticked around. We would go to classes together, spend lunch breaks together and so on. I was totally shocked that these three girls wanted to be friends with me since I was a shy and overweight teenager. The other three were all tall, thin and immediately popular. I have no idea how I became part of this group, but I was quite definitely a part of them. They never made me feel that I was worth less because I was overweight and just accepted me as I was. About 2 years into my degree I started to seriously want to do something about my weight. After the first few kilos they noticed it and from then on I got so much encouragement from them. All three of them were very active, they would bike to university (I started that, too), they would go to the university fitness classes and took me along. And I learned a lot about healthy eating habits from then. We often met up to cook together and while I was the best cook of us, I learned about portion sizes and how to incorporate lots of veggies into your meal. For me, this support was vital and I was so successful. I lost over 20 kilos in that time, my lowest weight was around 135 pounds and a BMI of 21.5. I looked great. Then university ended and a whole new set of challenges started. But I know that this experience that would never have been possible without those three friends, is what helps me get motivated over and over again when I am struggling. I owe them so much! And I am very happy that all three are still a part of my life and I still count them among my dearest friends!

What a great story - I am so glad you found such wonderful friends

On top of it all it's been such an overwhelming week. I'm overwhelmed, stressed, annoyed, and frankly I feel a little dumb and useless. The stress of starting a new job is just so much. I'm going to participate in some much needed sweat therapy with an easy 2 mile run (taper week) and then try to not cry lol

- Have the cry if you need it - I think sometimes we just need it and that is better than pushing it down and eating it. I have had a couple of cries in the last week or so for different reasons. Starting new jobs can be hard - I have no doubt you will be awesome in no time.

 

[pjlla]

What a great question!!! Honestly the people here are my greatest inspiration and source of wisdom. Like many of you, my issues are not a matter of not knowing what to do. I know exactly what works for me. I just have trouble with the little mental switch.... Being able to check in with people every day is enormous for me. Inspiration from those who are kicking butt, support when nothing is going right, and cheers over the smallest of woohoos. It is amazing!!! And while I don't really have it together right now, I can't imagine where I would be without all of you.

Bonus question. In my regular life, I am a wonderful mentor. I'm not much of a horn tooter but mentoring is something I dreaded and it turned out that it is a place where my star shines the brightest. And I love watching my baby ducks launch themselves into the stratosphere.

I say all of this because my first thought when I think of being a coach/leader/inspiration at weight loss, exercise, and healthy living, I just shudder. I'm so bad at it myself; how could I possibly help someone else? But I think one of the great secrets of the world is that the rewards of leading/teaching/mentoring are so much greater than the benefits of being taught. Sometimes you don't really learn until you teach. And sometimes going back to basics is exactly what you need to get yourself going again. And there is a lot of motivation in knowing that people are watching your example. Finally, payomh gorward the gifts you were given is always the right answer. So ABSOLUTELY YES! I want to lead and I want to inspire. And someday I hope I can do just that.

Love, love, love this response.... and so glad that you can celebrate being a great mentor yourself!!

This one is tough. My husband and are doing this journey together. But for the most part it has been me. He knows so much more about calories then I do so I lean on him a lot. Lately he has been very supportive and very encouraging to me. In the past he was more of this is our own journeys and would do it on his own.

My sister has been very over weight for a long time and she has recently lost 30 pounds. Once I saw that it pushed me to do better. Nothing like a health competition between siblings.

My biggest one I think is Fitbit and MFP. Fitbit has made me have a competition with it. I will continue to get all the lines green on the app! MFP has really helped me with food. Not that I eat really bad but it has helped me keep with in a goal amount. Lately I have been eating between 1,000 and 1,200 calories and I can see that I really don't need more.

With that said today is going to be a rough day food wise. My work is going to the Indians game (as long as the rain holds off) and they are feeding us. I took the kids to get doughnuts this morning and it was from a place that I love. These are a big weakness for me. I decided before I went I was not going to get any for me. I brought a banana with me instead. It took a lot of will power but I did not get one. Then I got to work and they had doughnuts here. I swear the world is telling to eat a doughnut today . I was good and just walked right past them. I ate my banana instead. Lunch I figured I will let go a little but just try and not over do it. I can't get a workout in today because of the game and a meeting tonight. I will get my 10,000 steps though since we are walking to the game.

One last thing, This group has helped me a lot to stay motivated. You guys are great!

SUPER job avoiding the "attack of the killer donuts"!! Wowza... they were coming out the woodwork at you! Hope it is a great game tonight!

I'm pretty much just leading myself thru, with a lot of inspiration from this group of course! I do always have a FitBit challenge going, which does really help, although this week I'm getting my 12,000 daily and I'm just in the middle of the pack.

I've reached one of my pre-vacation goals... I've been able to buy quite a few regular sized items of clothing. Yesterday I popped in to Old Navy and picked up 5 different XL tops and they all fit. I'm going back today to get one tee shirt in the other colors. And that leads to achieving one of my other vacation goals... To overpack. I'll have about a dozen tee shirts for a 7 day trip, no laundry break for this gal!

WOOHOO on new t-shirts.... and on no laundry on vacation... and on reaching goals!!

No real leaders for me. If I had to choose, I would probably say this site more than anything else. I've learned a couple good tips and more importantly, it's a great place to vent and think with the daily questions which helps keep me motivated... so thank you everyone!

For me, most of it has been common sense. Don't eat McDonalds, don't eat cookies, and don’t sit on the couch all day type stuff. I'm sure I'll have to fine tune things once I get closer to my goal weight and the weight doesn't come off as fast.

I'm not leading or inspiring anyone that I know of. I always said that I didn't want to be that guy who forced what he was doing down everyone else's throats because I've seen that before and I didn't like it. If someone asks, I'll gladly speak about it or answer questions, but that's about it at this point.

But you are leading by example.... whether you know it or not. Someone, somewhere in your life is noticing the positive health changes happening with you and starting to think... "if he can do it, maybe I can do it."

When I started this journey, I actually relied upon the WW phone app and just did as I was instructed. I was given a set number of points to eat per day and logged everything that went into my mouth - no matter if it was good or bad. It taught me to make better eating decisions and gave me an idea of what values were allocated to snacks. I also learned great habits for snacking and eating, such as buying snack-sized ziplock bags and breaking the portions up in easy to-go bags.

I don't think I've done anything miraculous to lead anyone....

Bonus question... I think coworkers and friends have seen the results of my hard work and are sort of following in my footsteps. I walk twice per day at work - so I make sure to include anyone who wants to come with me

I think you'd be AMAZED at how many folks here feel like you are a positive inspirational LEADER to us!!

I didn't get back on here yesterday to do my woohoos, so excuse the late post!


1) I ordered a new mattress topper for our bed. I don't know how often you're supposed to replace those, but our current one is 2 years old and has definitely seen better days. I'm thinking it has a big role to play in our poor sleep - I know I wake up stiff and sore in the morning and it has gotten progressively worse over the last few months, so hopefully this one will be super soft and comfy! This one has feathers and I think our current one is just a fluffy stuffing. It was also a super good deal - regularly $380 for a king size and I got it for $116 after tax and shipping. Thanks, JCP. It won't be here until Tuesday, though, and it's not available in the store to test out so hopefully it's really as fluffy and soft as it sounds like it'll be.

2) This week has been a wash exercise/health eating wise. I've really got to make a schedule and stick to it. I went out last Friday and attempted to do the first day of C25K and almost died. That was the icing on top of an already bad day and I got so discouraged after that. After some advice from @courtneybeth, though, I've gotten compression sleeves for my calves to hopefully help them not freak out as much and got a foam roller for after-walking stretches. i've also got some different protein powder/shake samples coming today and am planning to start back on my low carb/high protein diet to see if I can shed some of the weight again. i know carbs aren't bad, my body just loves carbs and never wants to let them go.


I have to remember that the goal is a 1.5lb loss a week. Not a day. I get really discouraged when I don't see the numbers melt down each day, and then I sabotage myself. I think I'm going to try to only weigh myself once a week and see if I can break the daily weighing habit. Disney/our anniversary is 26ish weeks away. I could theoretically be down anywhere from 20-40lbs between now and then if I can find something that works for me again.

As for today's QOTD, I don't really have a leader besides myself, and, well... We see how THAT'S working out. I have lots of inspiration, though, and people I aspire to be like, most of whom I've found in these threads.

Hey.... I may be joining you on the low carb bandwagon. My body has been absolutely CLINGING to every stinking ounce since the holidays and I am sick of it!! And to be honest, I'm feeling a bit "extra fluffy" this week... so help me, if I gained 3 pounds this week you will hear my frustrated roar all the way to Disneyland! Low carb isn't a sustainable lifestyle for me most of the time, but it certainly helps kick my weight loss into gear. Let's share some snack ideas, recipes, etc! I have my own hybrid "low carb WW plan" that I've followed in the past and it worked pretty well.

I know I have told this story quite a few times, but my three college friends definitely were my "teachers" on my first big weight loss and that was an experience that I always built on.

I started out university without knowing anyone. Here in Germany we don't have campus accommodation or so, so I had a studio apartment somewhere in Munich and commuted to university by metro. I found it really hard to meet new friends, but somehow those three girls with whom I was randomly assigned into a group on my one day of orientation long of sticked around. We would go to classes together, spend lunch breaks together and so on. I was totally shocked that these three girls wanted to be friends with me since I was a shy and overweight teenager. The other three were all tall, thin and immediately popular. I have no idea how I became part of this group, but I was quite definitely a part of them. They never made me feel that I was worth less because I was overweight and just accepted me as I was. About 2 years into my degree I started to seriously want to do something about my weight. After the first few kilos they noticed it and from then on I got so much encouragement from them. All three of them were very active, they would bike to university (I started that, too), they would go to the university fitness classes and took me along. And I learned a lot about healthy eating habits from then. We often met up to cook together and while I was the best cook of us, I learned about portion sizes and how to incorporate lots of veggies into your meal. For me, this support was vital and I was so successful. I lost over 20 kilos in that time, my lowest weight was around 135 pounds and a BMI of 21.5. I looked great. Then university ended and a whole new set of challenges started. But I know that this experience that would never have been possible without those three friends, is what helps me get motivated over and over again when I am struggling. I owe them so much! And I am very happy that all three are still a part of my life and I still count them among my dearest friends!

Bonus: I try to inspire others in my life - not by telling them what to do, but to be interested when they tell me about their weight loss troubles/journeys and challenges. But I would not say that I am doing this regularly or anything like that.

I need to report on a success story I had today: I was sitting down for dinner and had a simple dinner of salad and sandwich. I ate my salad and then started eating the sandwich. About two thirds through I realized that I was full. I did not need more food. So, I stopped eating and put the rest of the sandwich in the fridge. This will be a nice little snack to take to work tomorrow. All the calories for dinner were already tracked and accounted for and I even had room for a treat (an alcohol free organic shandy, very tasty!!). I am normally NEVER full, not even when I finish my dinner. So, this was huge. Not only is my body starting to tell my when it had enough, I was even able to act on it. And I really liked that sandwich, I enjoyed eating it.

STOPPING WHEN FULL sounds intuitive, but it actually needs to be something you do with some awareness.... so good for you!! And thank you for sharing that story! It made me smile!

Compression sleeves are the bomb diggity! And as your legs get used to running you won't need them any more. I used to get leg cramps after 30 minutes of run/walking. Now I can do 7 miles of run/walking without needing compression sleeves. SO you're not alone!

Today has been good food wise but I feel like I need to vent for a moment. So when I first accepted this new position I was told that I'd be bumping up to salary instead of hourly. Well, I got my official letter today and it says that I'm hourly, not salary like I was supposed to be. SO very frustrating. My new boss is amazing and I'm going to be talking to him this evening (poor guy never stops working) but it's just so frustrating for that. I feel like I was lied to? Which wasn't anyone's intent and when I brought it to my boss's attention he immediately told me that he was not told this either. Still.

On top of it all it's been such an overwhelming week. I'm overwhelmed, stressed, annoyed, and frankly I feel a little dumb and useless. The stress of starting a new job is just so much. I'm going to participate in some much needed sweat therapy with an easy 2 mile run (taper week) and then try to not cry lol

Awww.... I'm so sorry you are feeling that way! I can totally commiserate this week too.... having a similar feeling in my job and I hate it! I was nearly in tears at work yesterday.... but maybe it isn't us?? Maybe it is just the full moon??
HUGE hugs and prayers for some stress relief... and for good news on the pay front!

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

Hey friends.... I made it back to chat tonight!! WOOHOO!!

Just a reminder.... tomorrow is FRIDAY and the start of REPORTING PROGRESS for this week! I'll be ready to start taking your progress reports any time tomorrow through Monday morning. I will be heading out for yet another weekend trip to visit a college, so I may not be online much between Friday night and Sunday morning. This is the LAST long distance visit.... decisions (and deposits) need to be in by May 1!!

My April school vacation week starts promptly at 3pm tomorrow and I CAN'T WAIT!! I think tomorrow will be as slow as snails through molasses though! I'm still working both of my WW jobs next week, but the break from school will be SO NICE!!

Off to finish my chat shift and get ready for tomorrow! I've got another early morning shift before school, so I need to showered and have my clothes laid out before I get to bed...............P

 

[DisPup75]

Actually I listened to the disunplugged show last week(?) and they just kept talking about how much they loved Disneyland and that's when I decided to switch! Seeing everyone on here say they preferred Disneyland just sealed the deal! We're actually staying at the Wyndham Anaheim. It's about a 10 minute drive. I wanted a rental car for SoCal exploration so I was okay with staying farther away than walking distance if it meant staying at a nice place cheaper.

You'll love it! Disneyland is such a special place. And SoCal is so so much easier with a car. We get one even when we stay across the street and have no other plans. Easiest, quickest, and sometimes cheapest way to get to Anaheim from LAX. Plus it means I can have my In 'n Out burger within an hour of arrival. All this California talk makes me homesick.

This one is tough. My husband and are doing this journey together. But for the most part it has been me. He knows so much more about calories then I do so I lean on him a lot. Lately he has been very supportive and very encouraging to me. In the past he was more of this is our own journeys and would do it on his own.

My sister has been very over weight for a long time and she has recently lost 30 pounds. Once I saw that it pushed me to do better. Nothing like a health competition between siblings.

My biggest one I think is Fitbit and MFP. Fitbit has made me have a competition with it. I will continue to get all the lines green on the app! MFP has really helped me with food. Not that I eat really bad but it has helped me keep with in a goal amount. Lately I have been eating between 1,000 and 1,200 calories and I can see that I really don't need more.

With that said today is going to be a rough day food wise. My work is going to the Indians game (as long as the rain holds off) and they are feeding us. I took the kids to get doughnuts this morning and it was from a place that I love. These are a big weakness for me. I decided before I went I was not going to get any for me. I brought a banana with me instead. It took a lot of will power but I did not get one. Then I got to work and they had doughnuts here. I swear the world is telling to eat a doughnut today . I was good and just walked right past them. I ate my banana instead. Lunch I figured I will let go a little but just try and not over do it. I can't get a workout in today because of the game and a meeting tonight. I will get my 10,000 steps though since we are walking to the game.

One last thing, This group has helped me a lot to stay motivated. You guys are great!

Way to go!!! So proud of you staring down those doughnuts!

I'm pretty much just leading myself thru, with a lot of inspiration from this group of course! I do always have a FitBit challenge going, which does really help, although this week I'm getting my 12,000 daily and I'm just in the middle of the pack.

I've reached one of my pre-vacation goals... I've been able to buy quite a few regular sized items of clothing. Yesterday I popped in to Old Navy and picked up 5 different XL tops and they all fit. I'm going back today to get one tee shirt in the other colors. And that leads to achieving one of my other vacation goals... To overpack. I'll have about a dozen tee shirts for a 7 day trip, no laundry break for this gal!

Yay on new sizes!! I've got about that many packed for my six day trip. I change clothes constantly when it is hot. And I don't do laundry on vacation. .

When I started this journey, I actually relied upon the WW phone app and just did as I was instructed. I was given a set number of points to eat per day and logged everything that went into my mouth - no matter if it was good or bad. It taught me to make better eating decisions and gave me an idea of what values were allocated to snacks. I also learned great habits for snacking and eating, such as buying snack-sized ziplock bags and breaking the portions up in easy to-go bags.

I don't think I've done anything miraculous to lead anyone....

Bonus question... I think coworkers and friends have seen the results of my hard work and are sort of following in my footsteps. I walk twice per day at work - so I make sure to include anyone who wants to come with me

You are definitely absolutely positively one of my inspirations!

I didn't get back on here yesterday to do my woohoos, so excuse the late post!


1) I ordered a new mattress topper for our bed. I don't know how often you're supposed to replace those, but our current one is 2 years old and has definitely seen better days. I'm thinking it has a big role to play in our poor sleep - I know I wake up stiff and sore in the morning and it has gotten progressively worse over the last few months, so hopefully this one will be super soft and comfy! This one has feathers and I think our current one is just a fluffy stuffing. It was also a super good deal - regularly $380 for a king size and I got it for $116 after tax and shipping. Thanks, JCP. It won't be here until Tuesday, though, and it's not available in the store to test out so hopefully it's really as fluffy and soft as it sounds like it'll be.

2) This week has been a wash exercise/health eating wise. I've really got to make a schedule and stick to it. I went out last Friday and attempted to do the first day of C25K and almost died. That was the icing on top of an already bad day and I got so discouraged after that. After some advice from @courtneybeth, though, I've gotten compression sleeves for my calves to hopefully help them not freak out as much and got a foam roller for after-walking stretches. i've also got some different protein powder/shake samples coming today and am planning to start back on my low carb/high protein diet to see if I can shed some of the weight again. i know carbs aren't bad, my body just loves carbs and never wants to let them go.


I have to remember that the goal is a 1.5lb loss a week. Not a day. I get really discouraged when I don't see the numbers melt down each day, and then I sabotage myself. I think I'm going to try to only weigh myself once a week and see if I can break the daily weighing habit. Disney/our anniversary is 26ish weeks away. I could theoretically be down anywhere from 20-40lbs between now and then if I can find something that works for me again.

As for today's QOTD, I don't really have a leader besides myself, and, well... We see how THAT'S working out. I have lots of inspiration, though, and people I aspire to be like, most of whom I've found in these threads.

Oh that topper sounds heavenly!!! And you WILL find something that works for you. I just know it!

I know I have told this story quite a few times, but my three college friends definitely were my "teachers" on my first big weight loss and that was an experience that I always built on.

I started out university without knowing anyone. Here in Germany we don't have campus accommodation or so, so I had a studio apartment somewhere in Munich and commuted to university by metro. I found it really hard to meet new friends, but somehow those three girls with whom I was randomly assigned into a group on my one day of orientation long of sticked around. We would go to classes together, spend lunch breaks together and so on. I was totally shocked that these three girls wanted to be friends with me since I was a shy and overweight teenager. The other three were all tall, thin and immediately popular. I have no idea how I became part of this group, but I was quite definitely a part of them. They never made me feel that I was worth less because I was overweight and just accepted me as I was. About 2 years into my degree I started to seriously want to do something about my weight. After the first few kilos they noticed it and from then on I got so much encouragement from them. All three of them were very active, they would bike to university (I started that, too), they would go to the university fitness classes and took me along. And I learned a lot about healthy eating habits from then. We often met up to cook together and while I was the best cook of us, I learned about portion sizes and how to incorporate lots of veggies into your meal. For me, this support was vital and I was so successful. I lost over 20 kilos in that time, my lowest weight was around 135 pounds and a BMI of 21.5. I looked great. Then university ended and a whole new set of challenges started. But I know that this experience that would never have been possible without those three friends, is what helps me get motivated over and over again when I am struggling. I owe them so much! And I am very happy that all three are still a part of my life and I still count them among my dearest friends!

Bonus: I try to inspire others in my life - not by telling them what to do, but to be interested when they tell me about their weight loss troubles/journeys and challenges. But I would not say that I am doing this regularly or anything like that.

---

I need to report on a success story I had today: I was sitting down for dinner and had a simple dinner of salad and sandwich. I ate my salad and then started eating the sandwich. About two thirds through I realized that I was full. I did not need more food. So, I stopped eating and put the rest of the sandwich in the fridge. This will be a nice little snack to take to work tomorrow. All the calories for dinner were already tracked and accounted for and I even had room for a treat (an alcohol free organic shandy, very tasty!!). I am normally NEVER full, not even when I finish my dinner. So, this was huge. Not only is my body starting to tell my when it had enough, I was even able to act on it. And I really liked that sandwich, I enjoyed eating it.

Great job listing to your body! Off to google shandys now.

Compression sleeves are the bomb diggity! And as your legs get used to running you won't need them any more. I used to get leg cramps after 30 minutes of run/walking. Now I can do 7 miles of run/walking without needing compression sleeves. SO you're not alone!


_____

Today has been good food wise but I feel like I need to vent for a moment. So when I first accepted this new position I was told that I'd be bumping up to salary instead of hourly. Well, I got my official letter today and it says that I'm hourly, not salary like I was supposed to be. SO very frustrating. My new boss is amazing and I'm going to be talking to him this evening (poor guy never stops working) but it's just so frustrating for that. I feel like I was lied to? Which wasn't anyone's intent and when I brought it to my boss's attention he immediately told me that he was not told this either. Still.

On top of it all it's been such an overwhelming week. I'm overwhelmed, stressed, annoyed, and frankly I feel a little dumb and useless. The stress of starting a new job is just so much. I'm going to participate in some much needed sweat therapy with an easy 2 mile run (taper week) and then try to not cry lol

I started a new job in January and I'm still adjusting. But it does get better!!! Will hourly give you the possibility of overtime? Sometimes it works out better than salary.

We woke to the news here this morning that Prince has passed away RIP Prince - given that we were only just talking last night/yesterday about Duran Duran and music from 'our day' for some of us were you a Prince fan? What is/was your favourite song of his?

I certainly know many of his songs and like them but never bought an album. I liked Kiss, Rasberry Beret, Cream and others but these are probably my top favs.

That headline just broke my heart. I LOVE Prince. Picking a favorite is hard but Let's Go Crazy is always really high in my playlist. Which was all Prince on my commute home tonight.

Love, love, love this response.... and so glad that you can celebrate being a great mentor yourself!!



SUPER job avoiding the "attack of the killer donuts"!! Wowza... they were coming out the woodwork at you! Hope it is a great game tonight!



WOOHOO on new t-shirts.... and on no laundry on vacation... and on reaching goals!!



But you are leading by example.... whether you know it or not. Someone, somewhere in your life is noticing the positive health changes happening with you and starting to think... "if he can do it, maybe I can do it."



I think you'd be AMAZED at how many folks here feel like you are a positive inspirational LEADER to us!!



Hey.... I may be joining you on the low carb bandwagon. My body has been absolutely CLINGING to every stinking ounce since the holidays and I am sick of it!! And to be honest, I'm feeling a bit "extra fluffy" this week... so help me, if I gained 3 pounds this week you will hear my frustrated roar all the way to Disneyland! Low carb isn't a sustainable lifestyle for me most of the time, but it certainly helps kick my weight loss into gear. Let's share some snack ideas, recipes, etc! I have my own hybrid "low carb WW plan" that I've followed in the past and it worked pretty well.



STOPPING WHEN FULL sounds intuitive, but it actually needs to be something you do with some awareness.... so good for you!! And thank you for sharing that story! It made me smile!



Awww.... I'm so sorry you are feeling that way! I can totally commiserate this week too.... having a similar feeling in my job and I hate it! I was nearly in tears at work yesterday.... but maybe it isn't us?? Maybe it is just the full moon??
HUGE hugs and prayers for some stress relief... and for good news on the pay front!

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

Hey friends.... I made it back to chat tonight!! WOOHOO!!

Just a reminder.... tomorrow is FRIDAY and the start of REPORTING PROGRESS for this week! I'll be ready to start taking your progress reports any time tomorrow through Monday morning. I will be heading out for yet another weekend trip to visit a college, so I may not be online much between Friday night and Sunday morning. This is the LAST long distance visit.... decisions (and deposits) need to be in by May 1!!

My April school vacation week starts promptly at 3pm tomorrow and I CAN'T WAIT!! I think tomorrow will be as slow as snails through molasses though! I'm still working both of my WW jobs next week, but the break from school will be SO NICE!!

Off to finish my chat shift and get ready for tomorrow! I've got another early morning shift before school, so I need to showered and have my clothes laid out before I get to bed...............P

Congratulations on almost making it to spring break! You deserve it more than anyone I know.

 

[HappyGrape]

But sometimes it isn't DROIDS we are searching for, but FOOD~! Do you ever find yourself searching the kitchen cupboards, pantry, and fridge in a desperate search for __________ ???? You aren't SURE what you want, but you want SOMETHING... salty, greasy, sweet.... whatever your "go-to" junk food might be. You aren't truly HUNGRY.... but you are looking.

How do you talk yourself out of those situations? How do you walk OUT of the kitchen (or the 7-11 or the snack food aisle) WITHOUT the indulgence? How do you grab the apple instead of the Doritos? Or the cup of tea instead of the M&Ms? Share you strategies for those moments when we need to remind ourselves ..."These aren't the snacks you're looking for."

Kitchen - don't let the junk food in. After a party, put all leftovers in the bin
If I want something specific - it's likely I am not hungry at all. I tell myself I can have it later, it won't disappear
I am listening to old Tony Robbins audio book right now, and although some of if is very old school he has some very graphic suggestions about how to deal with such situation. One of them very quickly kills of any desire to eat pizza or ice cream - my favourites! I only started the audiobook last weekend and only listen to the motivation portion of it, but I really have no desire for junk right now.

well I plan to, if I was that good at it I won't be here, right?

 

[HappyGrape]

It has taken me a loooong time to realize that in all of my attempts, I was really trying to find a way to eat what I wanted (fast food, chips, treats, soda, etc.) but in a different way. I would substitute Doritos for Baked Lays. I traded Coke for Coke Zero. All I was doing was keeping my sugar dragon alive and well, ready to rear it's ugly head at any moment. For me, I have found that in order to tame the sugar dragon, I must starve it. I have cut sugar out almost completely, with fruit being the exception. And guess what happened? I no longer have those temptations! I haven't had those moments of looking for something but you don't know what. YES, at the beginning, it was hard. But being fat is also hard. I will get to a point where I can have some of those treats again...just not right now!

I think balance sometimes is over rated. If you do plan to lose weight, and if you have eaten your calories for the day eating tub of ice cream or 600 calories piece of cake in name of balance is silly. Same with cookie - for some people it's easier to say I am not eating this sh*t, it will make me want more, it will cost me battling with myself for the day should I shouldn't I, it will take my goal further away from me. No.

I am with you on sugar.