Lulu201's Healthy Living Log (comments welcome!)

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin!!

There's a beautiful bright sun outside today - hope there's a beautiful bright sun shining in your heart as well!

Have a great healthy day, girlfriend! :happy1: I'm with you in spirit, walking the walk right beside you.


Doreen

 

[littleducksmom]

erin.......you are doing great..........i am happy that you are feeling better in general.........it is amazing how increasing our activity can give us more energy........and a better outlook on life.

 

[lulu201]

OK, the day in review:

The carb cravings are coming. Maybe starting the day with oatmeal isn't the best idea. I made it through cheat-free, though, and am glad about that. I tried to do all the good things, but was so busy I didn't have a chance to drink all my water. I'll try to guzzle some tonight.

Tomorrow I'm going back to WW. Almost 12 years ago I was in WW for the first time and was really successful (of course I started that weight loss program at 175--25 pounds lighter than I started this one!!!); I came within 1/2 a pound of goal. Then the holidays came and that combined with the recent death of my dad and being a mom of a two year old, I just couldn't get myself back on track. And so it all began. Many attempts and hundreds of dollars have been spent at WW since. I've never ever made a complete lifestyle change and was never able to keep it off.

Things are different now.

Tomorrow I'm going back to finish what I started. It's my understanding that to achieve lifetime status you have to lose a minimum of 10 lbs. at WW (maybe I'm wrong, but I'll let you know the facts tomorrow) and then maintain that loss for 6 weeks. I need to learn how to maintain and sustain a loss and I want my favorite leader of all-time to help me. I've never seen a leader with such care and compassion for people. Being a WW leader is truly her life's work and purpose, and she has brought hundreds of people through to goal. I hope to reach my WW goal weight, 158, and then continue to lose until my body tells me I'm at the right weight to walk the half marathon. My insurance company will reimburse part of the cost, so I figured I might as well have some closure on this part of my life. I want the feeling of success that I've experienced these last few months to include my WW history!

I know some folks have not had the best experiences with WW leaders and their knowledge of and acceptance of different plans, but I think it really varies leader to leader. Some leaders are stuck on the 1970's plan, but many are right there with WW International's philosophy of finding the right eating plan for you. All their current literature encourages people to analyze how they feel if they eat low carb or how they feel if they eat high carb/low fat, and then to make the best choice for them. I just think some leaders want to hold on the the past and they convey their opinions to their membership. Who then go into the world insulting dear WISHers!

OK, off my soapbox. Going back is a big deal for me, but I'm not sure if I want to celebrate or not. I do know, though, that it's something I have to do for myself.

Tomorrow I'll get weighed there, but I'm not going to get weighed before I go. I haven't decided if from now on I'll make Saturday my weigh in day or not, but I might. It just seems to make sense to do it once a week and not again on Monday. I know that being fully clothed I probably won't show a loss this week here on the WISH (since I usually wear just my birthday suit when I weigh in here at home), but I can accept that. I think. I'm more than that number. I think. Saturday is also my long walk day, so I'm going to create a new healthy weekend schedule. WW at 7:30 and then walk when I get home--or the afternoon if I can't walk earlier. Sunday I'll go to church and then COLLAPSE! The long walks are getting longer rather quickly. Tomorrow I'm doing a six miler!!!!!! Sunday is really going to have to be my day of rest now!

So, that's the plan. Overall it was a good week. I received many compliments from people who have noticed the loss, and I feel good in my body right now. This next week is going to be tough--it's the D-Zone--but I'm ready to forge ahead. I've learned so much about myself and am taking such better care of myself, I fell like I can handle it.

Oh, ladies of the WISH, thank you for all the support and friendship you so generously give to me and to others on the boards. We are quite a team together, aren't we?

And Doreen, I feel blessed beyond measure to have you as my WISH sister. Thank you for talking to me today and for keeping me in your prayers. You're in mine, too, Sis.

That's all for today. I think it's enough!

 

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Lulu!

Best wishes on the start of the completion of your WW journey (does that make sensee??)! I'll be here cheering you on, girlfriend! We both know you can do it - you've been walking the walk for a while now so you know this road well. Andi sounds like a real gem!!

Also, best wishes on your long walk today! Again, though, you know this road - we walked 6.2 miles in Doylestown! You are gonna be so ready for our half-marathon next January - can't wait to see that WISHCon clipart in your siggie!! I'm waiting until I officially register on Monday - once I know I'm in, then I'll put the clipart up.

Have a sunny day, WISH-sis!


Doe-Doe

 

[septbride2002]

Girl YOU ROCK! Six miles today! Way to go! Sounds like you are doing great to me. I think the reason I failed at WW is because I never did attend meetings and it was hard to find support. I've done the Protein Plan by myself before and had great success so I seem to better on it. You are going to do so great today I just know it! I'm in a D-zone too today so I'm just going to think of you whenever I reach for something I shouldn't have.

~Amanda

 

[lulu201]

Just home from WW. Lots to think about. It was so different from when I was last there. . .it's hard for me to articulate.

I'm a different person now--not the same as when I tried WW before (the last time was two years ago, I lost 26 pounds and gained back 25). At this moment I have a belief in myself, the strength God gives me, and a strong support network. I'm entering the WW door with some success at this game, so I viewed the weigh-in and meeting experience with different eyes.
Very different from what I thought I'd feel last night. I saw many of the same folks that were there before--kind, funny, sweet people--many of them looking exactly the same, talking about the same issues (point free vegetable soup ). I watched the leader use a sometimes not-so-subtle sales approach re: nine week commitment plans. She worked hard to get me to buy the plan and when I said that I hope to be at goal before then, she kind of looked at me as if she's heard that a million times. Her words, "lose eight pounds and then we'll talk about goal. The plan's the best deal, but do what you want to do." Hmmmm. I figured it out, and if accomplish what I'm setting out to do--it's not the best deal.

I know that she experiences many people each week who aren't
feeling a commitment to a healthy lifestyle (people who aren't going to put their big behinds on the treadie and walk 6 miles! People who aren't in the Cheat Free January Challenge, lol), but I felt like what I've done on my own doesn't really "count" and shouldn't be discussed. The WW leaders want people in the GROUP, paying their money each week. I understand why they have to have that goal and I never found it to be so strangely offensive until I'd been over here on the other side, successful in a different venue. There are many taboo subjects, I realize now, including online WW, other online WW support groups (Dottie's Weight Loss Zone, for example), and of course, the whole Atkins issue.

I guess when I was at meetings before, the WW community wasn't quite as worried about Atkins taking it's share of the weight loss business. I was taken aback by one of the publications I received in my packet: "The Truth about Carbs," It discussed "fad" high protein diets and the dangers to your health and the myths about carbs, fats, etc. Knowing how I live much happier without pretzels, chips, popcorn, sliced white bread, and of all the people who are living in a healthier way on Atkins, I was disappointed by this. It felt like a propoganda leaflet to me. No wonder Lisa Castillomom got such an ear full in that email from her WW "friend." It IS in the literature they're handing out now.
They do, however, have a "high protein" option in their new Fast Track Program. (Huh?) They're less open minded than I thought. I think they really do feel threatened in some ways.

I also was struck at how superficial the conversation was. Friendly and fun, but simplistic. I guess because I've had the benefit of this journal and the WISH, I know how the weight loss experience is so much MORE than points, exercise, and water. I guess that the internal side of it is too much for some people--we're all in different places--and I know that there is only so much the leader can talk about in 30 minutes (it's an express meeting). . .like I said, I'm viewing things differently now.

OK, all that aside, I was glad I went, if only to finish what I started. It was what it was. Other than her push to pre-pay, the leader was friendly and supportive. The members as a group are funny--there are always lots of laughs at this meeting. I can do this; I HAVE to do this, if for no other reason than to prove to myself I can. There are so many times that I've failed at this (probably 6?) and felt miserable--I just can't have it hanging over me. Also, the bottom line is that I think the program works for me and I want to know how to make this work for my LIFE. I want to learn how to KEEP IT OFF!

So, Saturday is my new weigh-in day, but I'm going to keep Monday as a check point. I think I need it there to keep me from living it up over the weekend. I won't post that weight, but I will weigh-in. Also, my point bank will turn over on Mondays still. It'll be my official start to the week.

New weight: 169.6 (fully clothed )/Lbs. to goal: 11.6
Measurements: (taken at home Mon. 1/5, I'll post again the first Monday in Feb.) Bust: 41, Chest: 34, Waist: 31, Hips: 41.5

I'm going to get my hair cut at 11:15, then I'm coming home to my treadie. We have a date for at least 90 minutes! Yikes!

Thank you for stopping in, Amanda and Doreen. I appreciate you listening to me as I attempt to sort out my feelings about all this.
I feel strangely strong and optimistic, and then I have a flash of fear: what if I fail--again? Maybe THAT is who I truly am, not the strong person I feel like I am at the moment. That feeling of it all falling apart, seeing the scale climb up and up and up. . .maybe that's going to happen again. The what ifs can weigh me down if I let them, so I'm just not going to stand for them! Only thoughts!

Onward and downward,
Erin

 

[septbride2002]

I think one of the issues I have with WW (and please anyone doing WW don't take offense to this) is that anyone who does WW should lose weight as long as they do it right. Well I struggled and stuggled with WW for about 6 months - never lost more then 5 lbs and kept thinking to myself I must be doing it wrong. What I think WW doesn't realize is that their plan may not work for everyone. Diabetes runs in my family so carbs really are not that good for me and I notice a huge difference just in water retention as soon as I start eating less carbs and more protein. With WW I always felt deprived of food but everyone kept saying well eat what you love - well what I love is high in points which means that just B, L, and D I had used up all my points and there was nothing left for an extra apple or dessert. Sometimes the low fat, counting calories, is not for everyone and I think that is what Atkins and Protein Power show is that sometimes our bodies need to regulate something different.

I don't like any Weight loss plan that puts down what other people are doing to lose weight (like your propoganda pamphlet) as long as you are trying then that is all that matters. WW is a good plan if you find it works best for you. Personally I think the company needs to come off it's pedestal just a bit.

I'm glad your meeting went well and that you are happy about your return. Like I said WW is a great plan it just doens't work well for me.

~Amanda

 

[DoeWDW]

UNDER 170 WITH CLOTHES!!!

Oh. My. Gosh!!!! Erin, can you imagine what you will weigh on Monday morning without all that "extra" stuff on??!! Girlfriend, you are lookin' at some serious loss this week!! I think you should use your Monday weigh-in weight in your siggie. Let the WW scale say what it will, but you've been using your scale all this time - it seems a shame to value "their" number over "your" number. Just a thought - you need to do what you think is best.

I find it sad that you saw many familiar faces....at familiar weights. Makes me wish that all those people could have the experiences we've had, that feeling of success. They may still be showing up but do they really BELIEVE they can succeed? Is that the difference here on WISH? How does one go from hoping to succeed to believing they truly can succeed? Maybe that's one of the things that's different about you now, Erin. I know we all have those moments of doubt, but your recent experience has been one of slow but steady success.

My one big question - at what point are you considered a lifetime member? Just curious.

I think, given your past experiences, it was incredibly brave and courageous of you to walk back in there. You should be very proud of you for facing something that you feel you've left undone and making a committment to finishing it on a positive note once and for all! I admire you for that so much! You are a strong woman, Erin!!

Be good to yourself today!

 

[Castillo Mom]

Wow, you've given me a lot to ponder Erin. But I have to comment on what you said about your feeling that maybe you're not the strong person you think you are and you're afraid of failure. Take a step back and look at yourself from another person's perspective. Set aside any prior attempts at losing weight. If we look back at our failures and let fear get the best of us, then what would be the point of even trying again? We'd just stay stagnated. I mean this applies to every aspect of our life, not just weight loss. Think about how we encourage our children to pick themselves up and dust themselves off when they feel they're failed in some area. I've had that feeling too, thinking, " What if I put the weight on again?" And it doesn't help when a friend reinforces that fear. I think we have to realize that weight is going to be a lifetime struggle for us. Many people comment how difficult it is to stay focused, not cheat and lose any substantial amount of weight. My friend, in comparison to keeping it off, that's the easy part. It's like, ok I've met goal, now what? That's the biggest challenge of all. Don't look back, only forward. You ARE the strong person you think you are, for look at all you've accomplished. This is no time for self doubt. You're reaching a crucial point in your life. We're all pulling for you and we're struggling right there with you as we move closer to our personal goals as well.

I can also relate to what you said about being a different person. You really do begin took at things in a new way. I have a couple of coworkers who have jumped on the Atkins bandwagon because they've seen how much weight I've lost. One in particular went off on vacation and when she came back from her 1 week vacation, I asked her how she did. She seemed reluctant to answer, so I let her off the hook and kind of redirected the conversation. Later on she confessed that she'd gotten completely off plan but was embarassed to admit it. I told her that she needn't feel that way. This had to be a personal choice and that she'd know when SHE was ready, that she shouldn't gauge herself simply by what others may or may not do. This is such a personal journey. For whatever reason, she doesn't have the resolve yet. But I told her that's ok because no one could convince me or nag me enough to do anything about my weight until I truly felt the necessity to do so and for reasons related to my personal circumstances.

As for WW, another dear friend of mine is doing a low carb version of it which was recommended by the lady that directs her meetings, so I don't really understand the contradiction. Again, I feel that any plan has it's advantages/disadvantages and you have to find the one that's right for you.

Ok, I've gone on long enough. Erin, you ARE strong and you pass on that strength to us every day. Thank you for that.

 

[lulu201]

Thank you, Doreen, Lisa, and Amanda. The tears are running down my face; your words of kindness and encouragement have touched my heart, made me feel special and less afraid of failure.
Thank you for being there for me.

Like Lisa said, I know that this will always be a struggle, and I know that I won't always succeed (like my many stumbles last month), but I will ALWAYS get up and try again. Knowing that you all are there to help me when I'm in those weak times makes an incredible difference.

It's funny, Doreen, that you mention my Monday weight as "my" number; I feel that way, too, but couldn't put that feeling into words. I just felt like I couldn't give it up. . .and I guess it's because it's "mine." Maybe because I know that long after I'm done with WW meetings, I'll still be here with you and all of our WISH friends, still doing my report on Monday mornings.
Lifetime membership, btw, is the status granted to a member when he/she has been at goal (or under) for six weeks. After that the member needs to only come once a month to weigh in. The member can, though, come to any number of meetings per month for free--as long as he/she weighs no more than two pounds over goal. If you don't meet the weight requirement at that monthly weigh in, ya gotta pay.

I think there are many reasons I saw familiar faces at familiar weights. I can't speak for others as to why they haven't reached their goals, but I know that for me, part of the magic of the WISH is the DAILY (sometimes hourly!) support that is available. With WISH I am surrounded by the friendship of others who are trying to make changes similiar to my own. That didn't always happen at WW, even when I went with friends (which I've done twice in the past). Here on the WISH, we are in this together. Every day. We're making HUGE lifestyle changes! We're challenging each other to new heights in the midst of lives sometimes filled with temptations! We're walking the road less traveled together.

Speaking of walking. . . I did my six mile walk. It was long, but it was great. I also got the Pilates for Dummies DVD today at KMart; I'm going to do that tomorrow. DD is also going to help me with some ab work by showing me what her gym teacher is making them do in school. Wait a minute--did I just say I was going to do ab work????? Whoa, I really am changing into a new person. . .

Thanks again, everyone for all that you do to help me walk this walk--for celebrating my victories, for lifting me when I'm low, and for taking the time to help me figure out the puzzles in my life!

I'm going to turn over my clippie now.
Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

Sounds like you had a great day, Erin! Congrats on that 6 mile walk, girlfriend! I can't wait to hear how you like your new Pilates DVD and those new ab exercises that DD is going to show you.

It's great that you feel I've helped you, WISH-sis. I feel honored and blessed to be sharing this journey with you. However, do not forget that you are helping me just as much. We all are learning so much from each other and it's way more important stuff than how to make 0 point vegetable soup (that comment in your journal made me laugh! ). This place is amazing!

Sleep tight and sweet dreams, WISH-sis!

 

[lulu201]

It's Sunday, January 11, 2004. GO EAGLES!! (Just had to get that out.)

Goals for today:
1. Vitamins.
2. Coffee--2
3. Water--drink lots!
4. Exercise--try first part of Pilates DVD.
5. Food--walk the straight and narrow. I have points left in the bank and I don't want to use them!

I'm off to church. Today I have to fill in for the accompanist and I want to be on time, so I'm off to grab some breakfast.

Here I go,
Onward and downward!
Erin

Edit, 5:45 p.m.

I'm feeling much better about a lot of things. The Christmas tree is down and ALL of the decorations have been put away. Every single one! The wrapping area I had set up in our guest room has been all put away, too. I feel so much better! I'm not a neat freak by any stretch of the imagination, but when I have too much stuff around, it just overwhelms me! It's the "too many piles syndrome" a lot around here, unfortuneately.

Anyway, I worked like a maniac today, but I did my Pilates. It was fun! DD checked my form while I tried the exercises, and then she taught me a stretch they do in gym class. I wouldn't let her teach me any ab exercises, though; the ones on the DVD were enough!

I've been too busy to eat much today, but have gotten in 11 points. That leaves a lot for dinner--13 (14 if I give myself an AP for Pilates. I'll only do that if I'm super hungry).

I'm looking forward to stopping back before bed to change my clippie to 14 DAYS!!!

'Til then,
Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

Hey, WISH-sis, I'M IN!!!!! I'm all registered, thanks to your phone message!! Will I be able to sleep tonight??!!??

We're really gonna do this, aren't we?? It's all starting to seem real!!

WOO-HOO!!!

Now, about your WISHCon clippie....

See my WISHCon clippie in my siggie? Right-click on it, click on properties, and copy the URL address (the http line).

Now go to your profile and find where you want the clippie.

You start with a "<" followed by "img" and a space.
Then you put "height=100" and a space.
Then you put "src=" and paste the URL address you copied.
Then you finish the whole thing (after the "gif") with a ">"

Now have a look at it. If you want the WISHCon clippie to be bigger, just increase the height value.

I'm just so excited!! Thanks so much for letting me know that registration opened early!!

 

[Strings]

Erin,
All I can say is that you are truly inspiring. I felt that I needed to read the entire journal before commenting. You have such a great outlook on your journey. Through reading your journal, I watched you fall off track and get back on immediately. You've struggled, and succeeded. You've done all this while maintaining your sense of humor. You're amazing. I also admire your committment to exercise. You will do so well in the half marathon. I think your reltionship with Doe is wonderful. It demonstrates exactly what WISH is about. Supporting each other in this journey towards health. Thank you again for sharing your journal with us. You have helped me immensely.
Beth

 

[A1A1]

Holy cow!!!! I just finished your journal, as well. Thank you for sharing. It helps me so much to learn from the experiences of others. I, too, am a music teacher, so it was neat to read and be able to relate to that aspect of your life. I have a bag of starburst chews that I give as treats, and they, too, have been very temptin--just like your tootsie rolls. I think the trick is to give out something we don't like. I could give out those little cinnamon candies or hot tamales, but I don't think the kids or their parents would appreciate that.

I will be joining you and Doe and other WISHer's at the 1/2 marathon. I can't believe I am going to do it, but here I go...


Have a great day tomorrow. I look forward to reading more.

 

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, WISH-sis!

Hope you managed to get some sleep last night!

I wanted to send some pixie dust your way - I know you have a date with the scale this morning.


Doe-Doe of the WISH, future attendee of WISHCon 2005!

 

[lulu201]

It's a brand new week! I'm in training to walk a half marathon! In Disney World! With my girlfriends! Life is just too amazing sometimes.

Got on the scale this morning and weighed in at 168. That's four pounds this week! I'm going to change my siggie and then change it only on Mondays.

So, I'm feeling good, even though I know that bad days are coming FAST. The D-zone is seriously upon me. I think all the exercise I've been doing is helping, but I fully expect to hit the wall in a couple of days. I know that sounds negative, but history is history and that's how it usually is. When it comes, I'll be ready and will see it through to the other side. I've started taking the naprocin (is that how you spell it?) for the cramping. You've got to take it a few days before you need it for it to work the most effectively.

Today:

1. Vitamins--
2. Coffee, 1 (big) cup--
3. Exercise--WATP 3 mile. Two miles done. I couldn't finish it because of DDs "morning crisis" as she was getting ready for school. I'll do that in a minute. It's not the ideal way to do a workout, but hey, I'm a mom first, jock athlete second.
4. Points--I'm hoping to stay at 26-28. Not particularly hungry so far today. I think I'll have a smoothie for breakfast.
5. Water--I have a new huge WW mug with the oz. written on the side. Now it's easy to keep track of how much I've had. It's my goal to drink 3 mugs worth (that would be 96 oz.) by the end of the day. It goes so much easier when I have a straw.

OK, so that's the plan. I've got the house under control at the moment, but I'm facing a few challenges at work with projects that need to be done. I'm not worried though--baby steps will accomplish things.

Off to the dentist and then to the vet before work this afternoon.
Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

4 POUNDS!!!!

Look at you go, girlfriend!! Seems to me you're headed toward a new clippie soon too! We jock athletes sure know how to shed those pounds, don't we??

Be good to you during this busy day! Hopefully we'll both sail through the D-Zone this month! I've got my Trident handy and I hope you have yours, just in case the Munchie Monster tries to launch a sneek attack!

Have a wonderful day, Erin!

 

[DizMare]

Yeah Erin!! Goodbye 4 more pounds! You know, I think you SCARED away those pounds - they can't mess with you anymore. You are no longer an ordinary woman watching her weight - you are an ATHLETE IN TRAINING! Wahoo to you!!

My scale did not register a happy number for me this morning but I am taking courage from your committment! From now on, I am in training with the WishCon girls!

Love ya,
Mare

 

[Strings]

Wow! 4 pounds. Congratulations. All your hard work and dedication is really paying off. Bye-Bye pounds.
Beth