Lulu201's Healthy Living Log (comments welcome!)

[ZerasPride]

Hi Erin,

I'm so sorry this whole D-zone thing has you in a down mood. It does sound like you are getting control of your negative emotions (care to share how you do that?). You are so right that tomorrow is done and today is another day.

A co-worker of mine has the Girl Scout Cookie brochure plastered up in the employee lunchroom and I wasn't even phased by it - that is until I saw those double chocolate ones! I'm holding steady though. It figures the first year I resolve not to buy any, they come out with my favorite type of cookie. I am resisting the urge to buy 10 or 12 boxes.

Take care of yourself and I know you will do better today!

 

[marsh0013]

aaaa, the girl scout cookies! my mom decided to clean out the kitchen closet today and reorganize everything, and once all that was done, you could see how many boxes of those things we have in my house! they're all lined up, at least 10 boxes! crikes!

anyway, erin, you're doing so great! yeah, you had the run in wth the cookies, etc, but it's ok, right back on track. hope your day went well and that you are feeling better!

 

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, Erin!

It's a bright new day! Hopefully it will be a few degrees warmer! You will be right back on track - I'm just sure of it! We've both come a long way, haven't we?

I hope you'll find some "Erin time" today (besides that long walk!) to just relax and recharge your batteries.

I'll have my pedometer on - logged 14,500+ steps yesterday! With your walk today, you should see a truly amazing number on your peddie!!

On to another cheat free day, Lulu!

Walking right beside you!
Doe-Doe

 

[lulu201]

Hi, all, thanks for stopping by Doreen, Lisa Z., and Marcia. I DIDN'T get back on track yesterday--I made it until 8 p.m., though. Today I'm going to be OK, I can feel it in my bones. I'm going to get on the scale, assess the damage, and get back into the swing!

Goals:
1. Vitamins
2. Exercise--6 or 7 miles, depending how I feel
3. Water--tons
4. Food 24-29 points
5. Coffee--finishing it up for the day now.

I did lots of good things yesterday; just have to stay within the points.

Still thinking about WWatcher meetings. . .

Off into the day,
Erin

****************************************************
Still trying to keep a positive feeling here, but I'm feeling more vulnerable as the day wears on. Here's my update.

1. Still haven't taken my vitamins.
2. I walked two miles on the treadie. Today I just feel like it's too boring to stare at the garage door for an hour and a half. (How's that for a bad attitude? )
3. Water--that I'm doing. I'm filling up my WW mug like crazy.
4. B--oatmeal and my coffee, L-slice of cheese, toast w/pb=12
so far. I've got to make some sugar free jello and buy some healthy snacks.

Thanks, Lisa and Marcia for stopping in. Your encouragement helps tremendously.

 

[marsh0013]

hey erin, focus on the good things that you did do yesterday, not so much on teh going over points. as long as you keep doing good things, you are going to be just fine. i know you can stay within your points today. i'll be thinking about you and sending good vibes your way! have a wonderful day!

 

[Castillo Mom]

Good morning Erin! Don't feel too bad about those cookies, today is another day and you can start off fresh and cheat free. Just keep looking forward and I'm sure you'll be back on track in no time. Have a good weekend.

 

[septbride2002]

Morning Erin! Just wanted to stop by and give you a I'm sending you lots and lots of support today.

~Amanda

 

[DoeWDW]

Erin, here's an extra , sweetie! You'll be just fine. I hope you're feeling better. Some of our days are tougher than others, but that's OK. You've had way more good days than bad days, and your bad days really haven't been all that bad - not like they used to be!

Hang in there and I just know you'll have a brighter outlook in a day or two.

 

[A1A1]

Reading and checking in on you today lulu. Hang in there........You'll soon be back in the swing. You have been doing so well.

I agree about the boredome of staring at one spot on the wall while treadmilling.

 

[lulu201]

OK, girls, it's a brand new day and I'm ready to take it on! Thank you all for stopping by and offering support; I appreciate your kindness. I'm going to kick myself in the buttoosky though today and get back on program. I wasn't happy being on it the last few days, but I'm unhappier being OFF.


I've been struggling with a few things this week: extra work, buying a new house, the WW meeting issue, the cold weather in the garage! I think I've got my "stuff" pretty much resolved; now I just have to adjust my attitude.

I've got the extra work under control, and I think I have a routine established. I'm actually going to work on the curriculum project more this afternoon (just for a little while). I'm proud with what I've come up with so far.

The whole house thing is discouraging--we have champagne tastes with a Bud Lite budget! It's not gloom and doom, though. Being self employed, DH and I have a bit of unique situation when it comes to mortgaging; we've been approved for a lot more than we feel we can afford. So the restrictions are ones we place on ourselves. . .kind of like all of us WISHers choosing to live in a healthy way. We COULD take on a huge payment and then have lots of sleepless nights, but we're realizing that we don't want to do that. We really like where we live now, but I got all interested in moving because of new construction going up nearby, and now I have to be realistic. That's one of the things I love about being 42--the perspective is better. At 32 I would've said "let's go for it" and then been worried sick with all the what ifs. We have a great realtor and we've decided to explore different options as they come up. In the meantime we'll stay put.

I decided not to go to WW this week. Maybe I'll go next week, but probably not. I just don't feel comfortable there any more. I thought I would. I thought I'd just jump back in, but as DH says, I'm not that person any more. I'm struggling with feelings of disappointment in myself because I said I was going to finish what I started! If I'm honest with myself, there are two main reasons I didn't go back: the pressure to buy a prepayment plan, but even bigger--I didn't lose this week. Not losing on the first week is like a HUGE deal. EVERYONE that's new to the program loses if they're at all serious about it. At WW they don't know that I've been on the program for 6 months already and this week was the D-Zone--to them, this is week #1. I just couldn't see paying them $12 to get "the look." (The Look is what you get when you gain and they don't say anything. . .) Ughh. I should've gone. I should've gone to face the miserable music. Maybe I'll go next Saturday. . .

And finally, the garage issue. The treadie is coming back inside this afternoon. I'm setting up a workout area inside that will give me whatever I need--music or, for the long 90-120 minute walks, the tv. I'm feeling happy about that. . .no more frigid temps staring at the door! DH and I went to a beautiful fitness center yesterday to check out the pricing, but again, it was just more than we felt comfortable paying per month. I was disappointed, but bringing the treadie in will work just fine.

So, there's my novel for the day. The bottom line is, I'm ready to get back on track. Today I'm going to move my bear forward. I'm weighing in today and every day this week. I just need to keep a close eye on myself.

1. I'm going to take the vitamins. I never got to it yesterday.
2. I'm going to have my coffee at home and church.
3. I'm going to exercise on the treadie; probably for an hour or so today.
4. I'm going to eat in a healthy way.
5. I'm going to drink water all day long!

Thank you, everyone, for stopping by. I've felt your
around me!

Erin

 

[DoeWDW]

Good morning, dear Erin!

Today is the first day of the rest of your life! It may be trite but it's true! It sounds like you are starting to resolve some of the uncertainties. I think moving the treadie inside is a wonderful idea, at least until things warm up. Once those beautiful spring days come around, I'm sure you'll be enjoying walks outside. We'll have to plan more walks together to decrease your boredom!

I'm glad you have decided to stay where you are for now and keep an open mind to other options as the realtor finds them. Taking on a mountain of debt is never a good idea. When the right situation comes along, you'll know.

What can I say about Weight Watchers. You are a mature adult, Erin. You do not need to go to them and be subjected to "the look". You know your body and your rhythms. You also know that this past week was NOT the week you were going to drop a lot of pounds. Whether you go to the meetings or not, you will know when you've reached your goal. Do you really need "them" to acknowledge that? Only you can answer the question.

In my eyes, you're a success already, Erin. You've made changes that will last you a lifetime, and you've made them because you want to be healthier and happier, not because you wanted to avoid "the look". You've inspired me and countless others here to do the same.

Love ya, WISH-sis! :happy1:

 

[septbride2002]

I'm with Doe on the WW thing. You really don't need them especially if they are going to throw you a look. Why would you need that pressure and unuseful behaviour in your life? Sheesh. And they wonder why their numbers are falling.

I understand what you mean about buying a new house. When DH and I were looking at the beginning of last year we were approved for this very very very large amount. I turned to the banker and said, "And will you be helping me with the monthly payment?" I work in lending so if you ever have any questions please feel free to P.M. me and I'll be happy to give you some advice or just rates. We had to put restricitions on ourselves as well. It is a bit frustrating since yes we found homes that were being built or were brand new that were just beyond our reach.

I know you are going to have a great day today! Yeah on bringing the treadmill inside the house where you have a few more comforts.

~Amanda

 

[marsh0013]

erin, you are such a source of inspiration for me! you may feel like you failed this past week, but your resolve in moving on and doing what's best for you is a great accomplishment in and of itself. it was a tough week, but you survived it. i agree with everybody else about the ww meetings. you've been doing great all along on your own, unless you felt like you were going to be getting extra support from the people at the meetings, i don't see a need to go (i'm an online ww-er, and that works for me!). you know what's best for you. and it seems like the meeting would have been more of a negative than a positive.

today is going to be a great day for you, and that's just the beginning! i know you're going to do well. one day at a time. enjoy that treadmill inside!

 

[lulu201]

Update on 1/18--

The treadie is back inside. Oooh, life is going to be cushy now! I can look out the window, be warm, watch "Good Morning, America.. ." I'm lovin' it!

I got to church this morning and they had the cutest little mini-bagels. I always avoid the breakfast/snack area (except for the coffee, of course ), but today these adorable little two point bagels caught my eye. Something new for breakfast! I picked some up at the store after church, along with some kind of yummy gourmet cream cheese blend (I forget what it is now--oh, maybe roasted red pepper?). Tomorrow I'll have a new treat for the morning.

b--mini-bagel w/1 tbsp. cream cheese, coffee w/cream=6
l--salad w/grilled chicken, 5 black olives, dressing=6

I'm drinking lots of water. My rings are so tight, I have to yank them off. Normally, I can shake them off my hand! Guess you could say I'm a bit bloated today!

I did a little cleaning in my closet today; I bought a new over the door shoe holder, and I was able to stash about 16 pairs of shoes on that baby! Now DH and I can get in the door. You could say it's been awhile since it was a "walk in." I also have a box of stuff I'm going to go through today. I just want to get rid of things and lighten up.

Doreen and Amanda, I appreciate your input on all my life dilemmas . You're wise women and I appreciate your opinions.
I'm going to think about all you had to say about WW--maybe it's time I just release it all from my life? Like you said, I don't need their acknowledgement, the "look," or the pressure. I think that what I really need is that hour and half I spend on going to the meeting being spent on the treadie instead!! Maybe I have to ask myself what it is I DO need from them and then see if I can get it elsewhere. I know I don't need the group support--I have more here than I ever did in my 12 year off and on WW history. I THOUGHT I needed help learning how to maintain weight loss--maybe that help I can get elsewhere: on the boards, through reading and research, from just walking the walk each day. We'll see.

Now I'm off to grab those vitamins before I forget!

 

[DizMare]

Hi Erin!
Sooo glad to hear the treadie is indoors! It was such a sad picture, you walking in the chill staring at the garage door! I would go stir crazy.

Mine is in front of the tv, and I videotape programs to watch while I walk - it's the only way I can stay on for an hour. Sometimes if I'm watching a show live, I speed up my pace during the commercials. My own version of sprinting.

I hear ya about the $12 cost to get the hairy eyeball or the silent treatment! You know the program, and the meetings are just to offer suggestiions and support - both of which are available here for significantly less money!! Your life is already so busy! You don't need another time committment, especially one that is not meeting your current, individual needs.

Egads! How dare they give you the "look" when you've lost 32 pounds! The nerve of them!

You, girl, are a work in progress, a success in the making. So there.

Love ya,
Mare

 

[lulu201]

Aww, Mare, thanks for that! I was thinking about you today and wondering how you're doing. What kind of walking are you doing? Are you walking every day? Every other? Did you go to about.com and get their training schedule? I need the details, girl, I need the details! I was supposed to do 7 miles yesterday, 3 tomorrow, 3 on Wed., and 4 on Fri. Since I couldn't face the garage--yeah, I was quite pathetic walking and looking at that garage door --I only did two yesterday, but I got in four today, so I'm feeling good about that.

Anyway, Mare, I like the idea of "sprinting" on the commercials. I'm going to try that tomorrow a.m. I'm hoping to do the long walk early in the day and then I'll take Tuesday off.

Girls, I'm hearing what you're saying about the WW meetings. . .I'll let you know how I feel about it by Saturday.

Gotta finish up my goals for the day:
Vitamins--finally took 'em.
Food--dinner: 3 oz. chicken, 1 cup cheese tortellini, 1/4 marinara sauce, 1 tsp. parmesan cheese, 1 cup or so roasted veggies=12.5
Dessert will be later: s.f. jello and lite cool whip=0
Total: 24.5 w/AP left over

Sigh. I'm going to move my clippie over now, so I don't botch things up later. It feels good to have had a good day.

Off to check in on friends--
Erin

 

[DizMare]

My pleasure, Erin!
I haven't started the about.com training yet - I think I'll make that a goal for this week.

Currently I walk/run 5 days a week, for about 45 minutes a session, going about 2.75 miles. ( I think that mileage is correct.) I walk for 5 minutes, run for 5, repeat. When I walk, I walk at 3.7 and I run at 5.0.

Last week I tried just walking at 3.7 for 45 minutes. It seemed harder than running some, for some strange reason.

I also do about 15 minutes of free weights 3 days a week and 15 minutes of pilates 2 days a week. Saturdays I try to walk with Tim (a serious workout as he has a huge stride for a short guy) but lately the combination of hockey and weather have kept us from our walks. Sundays I rest.

How long is it taking you to walk 7 miles? And are you up at "race" speed, or just now working on distance? It is just amazing what you are doing on your treadie! An inspiration, I tell ya!

I have to say, sometimes I get nervous that I'm going to be able to maintain the race pace for 13 miles. But, it wasn't that long ago that I would only be able to run for a minute before my heart threatened to escape my chest! I gotta think positive!

Here's to a good week for us all!
Mare

 

[lulu201]

Oh, gosh, it's time to face the music. I'm still water-filled and plump, carrying two extra pounds into the new week. My siggie shows my TOM gain. It'll be gone in a day or two, but still it brings me down a bit.

OK, enough of that. It's not going to do me any good. Staying on track is what's going to do me good! Plans for the day are as follows:

1. Vitamins--done it!
2. Water--first 32 oz. are still sitting here on the desk, but I'm going to start guzzling soon.
3. Exercise--I'm going to do 7 miles on the treadie, beginning in a few minutes. Mare, I walked the 6 in 91 minutes last week and I was happy with that pace, but because I walked 2 on Sat. and 4 yesterday (at 58 min., 30 sec.), I'm just going to stroll along today. I'm going to set the treadie at 3.5 and just walk along for TWO HOURS!!!! That time element always gets to me! Anyway, I may run during the commercials just to kick things up a notch!
4. Food--I'm a happy WWer this morning, because I have a full point bank again. It's like getting a paycheck--a full bank to draw from. I love it! The two hour walk should earn me mega activity points, so I doubt I'll have to withdraw anything. I had oatmeal for breakfast (I turned up my nose at my cute mini-bagels--maybe one for lunch or a snack instead); the carbs in the oatmeal just sounded more like a power breakfast for a jock athlete like myself! Oh, I made some s. f. jello for my treat tonight. That jello is my power treat--as long as I know I can have that around
8 p.m., I'm feeling in control. Is that weird or what????
5. Coffee--here I'm a bit vulnerable. I'm almost out of green tea. Will have to get some later. I make no promises.

All right, now, I'm off and walking. I feel upbeat and ready to take on today's challenges!

Here I go!
E.

****************************************************
Edit #1: I walked the 7 miles w/one ultra quick bathroom, water fill-up break. The first half took 56.30, the second was 55.30, total of 112 minutes; 16 min./mi. I feel good that I did it, but it was tough. My legs, hips, lower back were all feeling it. I'm sure glad I have many days to train! I can't imagine what it will be like to physically keep the pace myself, as opposed to letting the treadie do it. That's my goal, though, for summer--to get lots of miles from outside walks, and train my body to do the work itself.
My stomach is grumbling. I think I used up the packet of instant oatmeal I had this morning!

 

[DoeWDW]

Erin, you sound so positive this morning! I'm going to try to borrow some of your sunny attitude!

Good luck on your long walk - at least you'll be warm inside with TV to watch!

We have our sunny WISH buddies walking with us today - how could we be anything but positive??

 

[DizMare]

Erin, you impress me yet again! Your pace on the 9 mile is 15.2 and on the 4 is 14.6. That's at race pace! Good for you!!

And hurrah for finishing the two hour walk in such great time!! Well done!!

I did 55 minutes today, and even turned it up to 6.0 speed for a couple of minutes - you inspired me. It IS a pain finding two hours in a day to walk!! Guess it has to be done, tho. I'll have to find an old movie to record on TNT!

Must remember to get some sugar free jello at the store so I, too, can have a power treat to look forward to at night when the munchies hit.

(I make myself regular oatmeal, and add a half of chopped up apple, some raisins and cook it, then I add a handful of walnuts and skim milk. Don't know the point value, but it is heavy on nutrition and sustaining.)

Have a dandy day, Erin!!