Lulu201's Back In Action Journal

[lulu201]

I've decided that tomorrow morning I'll exercise instead of DIS (imagine!), so I'm going to set up my plan tonight before going to bed:

For 12/9/04

(Edited at 6:45 a.m., 12/10)
1. Devotions-- 9/31 Today's prayer focus was for "frazzled parents."
2. Vitamins-- 9/31
3. Water-- 8/31
4. Exercise-- 6/31 2 miles and 30 minutes
5. Food--24 points (22 plus 2 AP)
Breakfast: yogurt and crunchy kashi (3)
coffee (1)
Lunch: McD. salad (10)
Snack: Pear (1), green tea with mint
Dinner: On the way to DD's concert: Tuna sandwich w/veggies (8)
Dessert: Ended up being a vanilla cone from Mcdonalds after DD's
concert AND 1 and 2/3 cups of chex mix AND a bowl of
cereal. That little episode blew the rest of my flex points out
of the water and gave me my first binge day of the month.
Food is now 8/31. I've got a cold--I was sick and tired
at 9:30 p.m. after a long day, and I medicated myself with
a megadose of carbs. Plain and simple.
6. Scale--9/31

If I've said it once, I've said it a 1000 times (but can't figure out why half the time I don't listen to myself!): it's just easier to follow the program than to second guess and argue with myself all day long over "should I eat it?" or "should I not?" This is the plan. Follow it. End of self-discussion!

It amazes me how supportive DH is after all of these years of yo-yoing that he's watched me endure. Whenever I say "I'm back on program," he's behind me 100%, always careful not to tempt me and to ask what meals would be good for me. He NEVER says, "are you serious?!?" He's a sweetie.

Yeah, that Robert Downey, Jr., thing got me thinking--glad to hear that it's given you, Doreen and Beth, some food for thought, too.

I'm really tired; I had a rough night. We're considering moving and or private school for DD, I had lots of thoughts rolling around in my head. She's not having problems, but we're looking for a school situation that is more supportive of our values. Tomorrow I'm calling a private Catholic academy and looking up different Christian schools. I don't know if we'll make any changes, but we all want to know what options are available. If you have any more room for my family in your prayers, I'd appreciate it if you could squeeze this issue in. Thanks.

You guys are the best.

HAve a good Thursday. Hey, Doreen, I hear rumors that the weekend's coming!!!!!

Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

Dear Erin, you know I'll add the school issue to my prayers. Actually, I've already been praying about it.

Your plan for the day sounds wonderful! Hang in there and stop second-guessing yourself! Just work the plan! Those little voices in your head will stop if you spend a moment or two in prayer, giving the situation to a Higher Power every time they start making noise.

Blessings for your day!

 

[Strings]

Hi Erin,

Your plan looks great. You are lucky that your DH is so supportive. It does make things easier when you aren't being sabotqged by loved ones.

I will certainly add the school situation to my prayers. I think you are wise to investigate your options. I know that you will find the best solution for DD. I hope you can get some sleep tonight.

Take care,
Beth

 

[geetey]

Erin
School decisions are SO hard to make! We just had to make that very decision when we moved to St. Louis. Go for a Catholic school, when moving into a top notch school district? If so, which one? The choices were difficult. We spent a lot of time interviewing schools and researching them. I am very happy with our choice, though, and am confident we made the right choice, especially for our DD (she has some LDs). If I can help in any way, pm me!

You are doing SO great, I don't even need the whip! I am so proud of you and your determination to stay OP. You are doing great!!!

 

[DoeWDW]

Good Friday morning, dear Erin!

I'm sending good vibes your way today!! I hope all is well with you and your family!

I found a wonderful new decaf green tea! Its called Candy Cane Lane by Celestial Seasonings. It has a wonderful peppermint smell! Just thought I'd pass it along.

You've been doing a great job so far this month! I do hope you're keeping up the good work!

Hope your day is merry and bright!

 

[lulu201]

Today is Friday, Dec. 10, 2004

I've got a head cold. Sniff. I'm in the DZone. Sigh. I'm concerned about DD's school situation. . .I'm ready for a nap. (It's 8:37 a.m. ) I'm ripe for a NON-healthy living day.

Now that I see this clearly, I'm going to try to nurture myself in non-food ways and shuffle through this day the best that I can.

First, about DDs school. I called the school we were most interested in; we're on the waiting list. We'll be notified if there's availability and then go from there regarding visitation and application. That will give us plenty of time to explore other options. Initially I was disappointed, but this whole issue is completely in God's hands and we'll stay where we are or go where we're directed. I know it'll all come together. In the meantime, DD is doing well; we're encouraging her and helping her to deal with life as a teenager.

The plan:
(Edited on 12/11)
Devotions: 10/31
Vitamins: 10/31
Water: 8/31 Didn't get enough.
Exercise: My body's asking for rest; I'm going to listen. 6/31
Food: Kind of drifted through the day on this one. I thought I could go out for coffee and still stay on track, but I didn't. I ended up not eating anything until 12:30 and by then I was just out of synch. I had a salad then but also had a pumpkin muffin at an after school stop at Dunkin Donut. Then I had pizza and salad for dinner and a little bag of cookies for dessert. I just felt out of the groove. I'm not even going to try to figure out the points. I'll just count it as an off day. Food stays at 8/31.
Scale: 10/31 Last week: 178/This week: 174.

I've got to run, but I'll pop in later. Thanks, everyone, for lifting up our school situation. I have faith that though I can't see the answer, Someone's overseeing the matter.

Erin

 

[geetey]

Erin,
Fear not - the school situation will work out. We were on a waiting list for my DD (they had room for my DS), so we explored some other options and found our current school. It is AWESOME!! I am so happy we ended up on that list. We committed to our current school and the other school opened up. After speaking with some parents of current students, we knew our choice was the right one. We were supposed to be at that other school - not the waiting list one - but without the waiting list, we wouldn't have found our school! Listen, and you will find the way. A space will open, or a new opportunity will appear.

Can I say how proud I am of you? Even with a cold, the DZone, the school stuff, you recognize the challenge and have planned accordingly! You rock! Steadfastly, you are moving... onward and downward! Go Erin!! :jumping4:

 

[lulu201]

It's December 11, 2004. 14 Days to Christmas!

Thanks, Terry, for stopping by and sharing your experiences. I know deep down inside that it's good to be on the waiting list. It just feels right. This new school--with or without scholarships--is going to be a huge financial deal. Time gives us the opportunity to make sure it's the absolute right decision for us. Also, like you mentioned, it gives us the chance to seek out other options. At the very least, we'll have a better understanding of our concerns.

As far as healthy living goes, the chocolate and carb cravings are surging through me. The DZone can be a scary place, let me tell you. As you can see from yesterday's edit, I struggled. I think that the biggest road block I had was that I wasn't in my routine. I thought I'd indulge in a Starbucks Peppermint Mocha (ooh, yum) and count its points as my breakfast. Well, I had those points, but it wasn't filling or satisfying enough to give me the energy I needed to make it until 12:30. The rest of the day was just off-kilter and I felt tempted to indulge right and left. I had too much caffeine, not enough water. Yuk. Just not healthy. This little cold didn't help matters either.

So today's a new day and I'm getting myself together. I don't want to lose the progress I've made so far this month.

1. Devotions: 11/31 I read the Upper Room on-line and I also read a chapter of the Mary/Martha book. I have to say that this author speaks to my heart in a way that's very different from the Elizabeth George book. I think I'm going to be able to pull positives for my life from both.
2. Vitamins: 11/31
3. Water: 8/31 Just couldn't get enough in AGAIN.
4. Exercise: Not too hopeful on this one. I've got to do some cleaning before work because the in-laws are visiting. DD and DH will do some while I'm out and then I'll have to finish up when I get home. Maybe a little two miler tonight after in-laws go home? 6/31
5. Food: Coffee, english muffin and pb (7). Lunch will be yogurt and kashi (3) and an orange (1). That leaves plenty for dinner. Target is 22 points. I'm starting again with 35 flex, since I didn't keep track yesterday.
Stayed on program, but barely. Used 18 Flex points! 9/31
6. Scale: 11/31

OK, gang, it's time to crack the whip! I've got to tow the line big time!

You know me: looking upward and moving downward!
Erin

 

[wilderness01]

I just read through the last few pages of your journal. You took the thoughts right out of my head regarding getting back on track. Boy the weight sure does sneak up fast on you doesn't it? I just had a reality check being in Florida and putting on my once loose shorts just a few months ago. You sound determined though and that is the biggest part of the battle.

About your school situation.......be thankful there is a waiting list. That means it is a good school that people want to get into. We are going through a nightmare right now with our kid's school. Just 6 years ago you couldn't get into the school, now there is not even a waiting list. That speaks volumes. It took us 3 years to get into this school and now I just question what "the plan" was that we were allowed to get in. It would have been a blessing in disguise if we hadn't, but live and learn. Good luck with your situation. Take care.

 

[lulu201]

Whew! Yesterday I struggled, but I managed to salvage the day. Staying within my remaining flex--17--until Friday night is going to be tough though.
Aww, what the heck? What's life without a challenge, right?

Today's plan:

1. Devotions 12/31
2. Vitamins--will take them in a minute 12/31
3. Water--am getting ready to start the second glass now. I'm determined to get this smilie today! 9/31
4. Exercise--sigh. 6/31
5. Food--oh nuts! 9/31
6. Scale--12/31

Have to get to church; I'll be back later to update.

Hi, Wilderness! I never thought of that. . .a waiting list is a sign of good things! DD was at the academy last night for a concert and was able to meet a few people and see the chapel without me being there to influence her feelings either way. She had a good feeling. We'll just see now what God has in store for us!

Looking upward and moving downward,
Erin

 

[Strings]

Hi Woman,

I tried the peppermint mocha and thought of you. Actually, it was too sweet for me.

Are you feeling better? I know that DZone is such a struggle for you. I also know tht you are determined to lead a healthy life, so you aren't going to let DZone get the better of you.

I will continue to pray about hte school situation.

Have a great Monday!
Beth

 

[lulu201]

Monday, December 13, 2004

The plan:

1. Devotions--13/31 Today's message was about those people who are placed in your life by God to help you. Kinda like my WISH buddies!
2. Vitamins--13/31
3. Water--13/31
4. Exercise--ugh. holding at 6/31
5. Food--9/31
6. Scale--13/31

Thanks, Beth, for your prayers re: DD's school situation. A friend called last night to tell me that she'd heard through the director of the choir DD used to belong to that she'd talked to the principal at the school we're trying to get DD into. Sure enough, I called the director and the principal told her that DD is the type of student they're hoping to get. One problem though: the principal thought DD was coming in as a 9th grader. When I called the principal this morning, she told me that while there is hope, DD will only get into the school if someone else leaves. We'll just keep it in prayer and motor on. I have to email DDs guidance counselor and get her records together to submit.

Other than that, I have laundry to put away, some shopping to do, and a box to get in the mail to my mom. Students this afternoon. . .

Will we ever see the sun again?

Struggling, but looking upward,
Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, dear Erin! As each day goes by, you are heading toward the light at the end of the DZone tunnel. Continue to do the best you can. You know that a couple miles on the treadie will raise those endorphins and help curb your carb cravings - please do your very best to get that exercise in today! I need to take my own advice - I've been slipping in the exercise area as well.

I continue to pray about the school situation. It is safely in God's hands and He knows just where your DD needs to be, and more importantly, WHEN she needs to be there. Please continue to keep us updated. I'm hoping for good things for your DD - she's a true gem!

Food - what a struggle! We live in a country of abundance. Sometimes that is both a blessing and a curse. Try to get back to simple foods that satisfy. Sometimes I do my best when money is tight and I can't afford to buy food when out and about.

Blessings for your day! I hope it is filled with genuine love and laughter!

 

[geetey]

Good Morning, Erin!
Did someone call for sunshine? I hope these add a little sunshine to your day!
I am keeping tabs and I don't think the whip is needed just yet. Remember the AP points you can earn through exercising, if you need some extra points. Also, remember those 0 point foods for some munching. Don't forget about 0 point soup either! Tera is having great success with that!

I hope you are struggling, so grab my hand and I will pull you along for a tad. Remember, you are not a lone.

 

[septbride2002]

Remember how you asked for tough love?

You are doing awesome with your devotions, vitamins, and even exercise. But I see you are struggling with food and water. Pick one of the two and make a commitment to hit that goal tomorrow. Everything else seems to come easily to you - but these are the two you most put off. I know if you tell yourself (and us) that you are going to do it - then you will.

I'll be there you on!

I hope things work out with your DD's school.

~Amanda

 

[lulu201]

12/14/04

Just a quick check-in.

Girls, thanks for your advice. Today I'm going to stay within my points and drink my water. No exercise, though. I started to remember how Doreen and I had talked about this--oh, say, about a year ago. We realized that we can lose weight for about three weeks out of the month and for one week it's all we can do to just hold on to what we've accomplished the other three. In the past, I would let this week completely throw me off and fill me with guilt and defeat, but I REMEMBER this! I'm going to continue to ride the wave, clinging to my good habits. I can feel myself NEAR the track. Today I think I'm going to be almost (except the exercise) back on it.

1. Devotions: about grace. 14/31
2. Vitamins: 14/31
3. Water: 10/31 (yesterday was a typo)
4. Exercise: 6/31
5. Food: 9/31
6. Scale: faced that monster. It's not looking pretty. 14/31

Thank you, everyone, for your prayers. Please know you're in mine, too.

Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

I remember us chatting about that, dear Erin! It seems amazing to me when we talk about something happening a year ago. In some ways I feel like I've known you my whole life and in other ways I feel like we've just met!

You know you're in the toughest part of the month. Just ride the wave and maintain. In a few more days you'll be filled with energy and enthusiasm to RUN down that healthy living road!

Hang in there and know that we won't let you drift too far away. We're all here to throw you a lifeline and pull you back in.

Peace for you today, the peace that passes all understanding.

 

[Strings]

Hi Erin,

I know this is the toughest time for you. Add the holiday stress and it is understandable that you are having trouble hanging on this week. That said, you will hang on bacause you WANT to be healthy. I will continue to pray that things become easier for you.

Take care,
Beth

 

[lulu201]

12/15/04

Here's how it's gonna go:

1. Devotions--15/31 Read my "Upper Room" and also a chapter from the Mary/Martha book, "The Better Part." Gave me lots of ideas for structuring and carrying out a regular prayer time.
2. Vitamins--15/31
3. Water--11/31
4. Exercise--not going there. 6/31
5. Food--I know this isn't right, but I have no expectation for myself today.
I'm taking a break. 9/31
6. Scale--15/31

Went carolling with church group (in the freeeezzzing cold) last night. It was an OK time, but I am in dishrag mode today and it's a long day. Leaving now, won't be home until 8:30. Baby steps. Prayer. One foot in front of the other. I should be through to the other side of the DZone on Friday. The 3 days before and the first 3 days of TOM are stinkers, but I'm scheduled to be climbing out of the pit soon. See you on the other side.

Erin

 

[septbride2002]

The DZone is almost over! YEAH!
Just stay focused on what you can do and I know you will be successful. Water Wate Water Water Water! Have a great day Erin - I'll say a quick prayer for you this morning for God to send you some strength and energy to get through your day.

~Amanda