Lulu201's Healthy Living Log (comments welcome!)

[Castillo Mom]

Hi Erin, sorry to hear you were sick this week. Hopefully you'll get some rest this weekend. Take care and I'll check in with you on Monday. Oh, and thanks for the encouragement you gave me today, I was really happy to see that you had posted, you made me laugh. Good night!

 

[lulu201]

Good morning! What a treat to come to my journal this morning and find that Marcia and Lisa have stopped by!

Oooh, Marcia, you've given me a lot to think about re: the bread situation. I have never been able to bring myself to buy that low calorie bread. . .I guess it's a great way to shave the points, though. Maybe I'll break down and give it a try. And the yogurt--I know I should eat that, too. The Boca burgers--well, let's just say it's not calling my name like peanut butter oatmeal surprise!

Lisa, I'm still dogging it with this cold, but my attitude is better, at least. It's a good thing--our house has a revolving door this weekend! DD has a friend who needs to spend tonight, DSIL may come back again. . .oh, well, I keep telling myself the more the merrier.

OK, let me see. Today's plan:

1. Vitamins
2. Water
3. Exercise--at least two miles today
4. Points--22 plus activity and then a few flex?
5. Coffee--I'm really cutting back today. Seriously. REALLY.

b--mini bagel (2) w/ lite cream cheese and a minute amount of blueberry jam + coffee=5
l--uh-oh, I see the problem here. I haven't the faintest idea what we'll be doing or where we'll be by lunch time. Maybe this is why I fall apart on the weekends (ya think????).
d--uh-oh, same problem. We might be at the mall, we might be home. Hmmm, a healthy living dilemma.

Guess I'd better get some family plans in place before I do the food plans.

I'll get back to this later. . .

Edit #1 10:15
1. Done
2. Working on first glass.
3. Exercise--well, it's nice out, so I think I'll do my two miles in a leisurely stroll this afternoon. I'm just not feeling up to the speed thing yet. Lots of chest congestion still.
4. Food--lunch will be a McDonald's salad because I'm going into work for awhile. d-will be baked ziti and a another salad w/sugar free jello for dessert.
5. Coffee-done, no more shall pass my lips today.

I passed a running shoe store as I was taking DD to a rehearsal today; I'm going to stop back in and see what they recommend for the half marathon. Also see if they sell those cool max socks and clothes. I want to price everything out. It's exciting to think about.

One luxury I'm going to allow myself is a nice tall glass of OJ. I'll figure out the points, but I just have to give myself some sun in a glass!

Edit #2

Total points so far: 5+10+1+2=18--4 points for dinner?
I'll be back. . . Guess I'd better get on the treadie, don't you think?

I changed my siggie so that I could get a clear idea of where I'm starting on the April challenge; I'm happy to say I dropped a pound of my water weight yesterday. I'm going to try to lose 10 pounds and get down to 157.

Am doing better on the water--I'm on my 5th glass.

Edit #3 3:40 p.m.

Did 2.03 miles in 30:06; a decent walking pace today! Getting into the endorphin zone has helped out my mood a little bit--have a little family frustration going on at the moment. Enough said. Anyway, have had the water and am looking at pizza at the mall for dinner. A slice is 8 or 9 points, so with my AP, I'm looking at a 2-3 point flex withdrawal. I can live with that. Just one slice though, and of course, jello at home later on.

9:30 p.m. FINAL EDIT OF THE DAY!

As it turned out, DH, DSIL, and I went to DH's favorite: yes, girls, you know it's the Chinese Buffet! Well, I've got that place down to a science now, so I had my usual 1 cup of steamed shrimp, 1 cup chicken and broccoli (heavy on the broccoli), some mushrooms, and some rice noodles. Total points: 9

Went to the mall with DD and her girlfriend. Remembered I had my starbucks gift card with me. Had a tall DECAF sugar-free vanilla latte at 1 point, I believe. Total points for the day=28
(22 target, 2 AP, 4 from bank).

I've had lots of water, too.

At the mall, I picked out a new suit for Easter in a pretty "tulip pink" shade. It's a simple sheath dress with a matching jacket--both size 10. I'm not cutting the tags off because it's snug through the bust, but I couldn't see buying the 12 and then losing 10 pounds. What if it didn't fit? So, I'm going to hang it on my closet door and use it for inspiration to stay on plan. I'm determined to wear it by Easter time!

Also at the mall, I took myself for a walk through Victoria's Secret. This was a big deal for me, because I've never felt sure enough of myself to go in. This time, I browsed all around--didn't buy anything--but I had lots of fun looking at all the pretty things. Over the years, my weight has made me self-conscious in many ways; being free from the weight has made me more confident.

I took a cue from Amanda and went to the bookstore and bought a motivational book (on sale for $5.98 ) on healthy living.

I've also decided to walk every day this coming week--either outside or on the treadie. Even if it's only for a mile on my busy days, I need to stay connected to my physical goals. I'm going to remember Dr. Phil's words and do it whether or not I feel like it. Truth be told, I didn't feel like it today, but it felt good and I felt good about myself afterwards. Exercise is so empowering.

Also, I've decided that I'm going to concentrate on losing three weeks out of the month, with one week for maintenance during the D-Zone. During that week (and I already have in marked on my calendar in my purse), I'm going to do everything I can to support myself both mentally and physically.

Though I had my DD and friend along for the ride, my time at the mall tonight was really some "me" time. (Did I mention I tried on a Ralph Lauren suit for $350? That was fun ). It brightened my outlook and helped me to focus, if only for a brief time, on the positive changes that have happened the last few months.

I'm going to turn over my clippie now and call it a day. I never did get to the running store (I decided to walk instead), but at least I
know where it is now. I'll look at Target, Marcia, for my cool max. Thanks for passing that tip along. And thank you everyone who stopped by to say "hi" during the day. You know how I appreciate it.

Good night--
Erin

 

[septbride2002]

Hi Erin! I am the same way on the weekends just sorta flying blindly. I guess during the week we are more structured because we have to be. I am trying to be the same way about the weekends. Lets make a commitment to both have a plan in place for Sunday. I know I'm game if you are.

Sounds like you are going to have a wonderful day - hope you find some healthy menus for your lunch and dinner!

~Amanda

 

[DoeWDW]

I'm glad you had some OJ, Erin! It sounds as if you need it to kick that cold out of Bucks County!! I'm also glad you walked on the treadie instead of outside. If your chest is congested, you should NOT be outside walking in the cold air. I'll turn Mom-mode off now....

I keep thinking about walking but I'd have to walk outside and you KNOW how I hate the cold.... it's too late to get to the fitness center and use the treadmill there.

Your day sounds like it's going well. Your food plan keeps changing but you're staying on track - way to go!!

Good luck with all the company, girlfriend! Keep an eye out for a PM from me.

 

[marsh0013]

hey erin, definitely sounds like a good idea to head into that running store for shoe recommendations. they'll be able to figure out a good shoe and fit for you. as for coolmax socks and shirts and stuff...i'd check out target type stores. the stuff at the running stores is waaay pricey, and they have good stuff for much cheaper at target, tj maxx, etc. but if you just want to do everything in one trip, well then, treat yourself to the running store stuff, you're definitely worth it

pizza for dinner sounds good. you earned it with that walk, and a few points from the bank is definitely not bad.

and good luck with the april challenge. i'm in too...and i think i saw some other names i recognize. we'll definitely be supporting each other, and 10 pounds sounds like a great goal for you. i know you can do it

 

[Castillo Mom]

Erin, I'm totally able to relate to your experience at Victoria's Secret today. For the longest time I wouldn't even walk in the store because I felt like all eyes would be on me and people would think, what's she doing in here, nothing will fit! Erin, next time you're in there I encourage you to buy something for yourself that you normally wouldn't. Go on, take a chance, get yourself something really pretty. You deserve it with all of the hard work you're doing!

 

[DoeWDW]

Erin, good for you!! It sounds like you had a wonderful day!!

I'm envious of your Victoria's Secret foray - haven't been brave enough to go in there yet myself! I agree with Lisa C. - next time you should treat yourself to something nice! Your new suit for Easter sounds so beautiful and I bet that color looks soooo good on you! You're going to feel like a when you wear it!

I have to run - need to get ready for Sunday School & church - but I'll be thinking of you today, WISH-sis! :happy1:

and

 

[Strings]

Hi Erin,

I personally think you need to buy 2 things at Victoria's Secret. 1 pretty thing for yourself, and One thing the mill make DH .

It looks like you've found some extra motivation to stay op. I think the dress sounds fabulous.

Enjoy your day.

Beth

 

[septbride2002]

Erin I am sitting here just at your updated post. First off great job on the Chinese Buffet and look at how much more you were able to eat for 9 points rather then having just one slice of pizza.

I love the sound of your Easter dress. And I think it is great that you are using it as a goal for April. I bet it will look awesome on you.

Now you are to march back into Victoria's Secret and buy yourself something. Seriously they have the best bras ever! Although they are expensive. I have several little things from Vicky's that I wear every now and then - drives DH wild Don't be self concious of anything - you have curves and you should show them off. Those skinny stick figures in the pictures are just to represent real women.

Your recommitment to yourself sounds great. I am off to my journal to post my goals for the week.

~Amanda

 

[lulu201]

Have I told you guys lately how much I love you all?
Who else could understand what a big deal it is to go into Victoria's Secret? And Lisa, that is exactly how I always used to feel, too--like everyone was wondering what the heck I was doing there! Sometimes, when I look back at how I felt about myself. . . . . .it was painful at times.

I'm so thankful to have all of my WISH friends helping me to live this healthier life. I would like to say--"I'll never be heavy like that again"--but I can't do that, I just can't. All I can address is the way I'm going to live today. Maybe if I hadn't had the years of dieting, I'd be braver, but as it is, I'm OK with living in this moment. I can't really imagine going back now, and if I fall, I'll pick myself up, with "a little help from my friends" (C'mon, Amanda and Doreen, help me sing a chorus or two.) , but still, it's got to be just one day at a time.

OK, down to the basics.

1. Vitamins. I totally forgot to take them. I'll do that in a minute.
2. Water. I've had a little, but not enough.
3. Coffee--at home and church. I'm done for the day. I had a little diet coke with lime (ooh, I love that stuff ), but I'm going to cut myself off from caffeine for the rest of the day. My skin is looking a mess and I know it's from all the medicinal coffee I had last week.
4. Points. MARCIA, YOU HAVE SAVED MY POINT-LIFE! I found some really tasty high fiber, low point bread today and had those two slices for one point!!! YAY!!! Sandwiches are back in my life, thanks to you!

Here's how it's looking
b--slice of toast w/pb=4 plus coffee w/ 1/2 and 1/2=5
l--cheese sandwich=4 plus pickle (0) plus baked lays (1)=5
Total for breakfast AND lunch=10

I hope to walk this afternoon on the treadie and have some AP points saved up for this evening. Also, I weighed myself and I've lost another pound of water weight. I'm not going to adjust my siggie, though, until Friday a.m.

I'll be back later to make more journal rounds, but now I'm must go take a nap and have a cuddle w/dpuppy.

Erin

Edit:

I took the vitamins and I took the nap and I took a walk (2 miles at 29:10). They all made me feel good!

More points to add--1 for pineapple, and 2 for raspberry yogurt (Marcia and Lisa Z. influenced that choice).

I'm going into dinner (baked ziti and salad) w/9 plus 2 AP. Still haven't made complete journal rounds, but I'll be back again later.

And now to close:

What a great day! I did some serious resting and I feel so much better. I'm still coughing now and then, but my voice sounds better and I'm less stuffy, too.

Finished the day w/one cup of baked ziti for 6, a salad w/poppy seed dressing at 3 and some fresh fruit w/ lite cool whip.

Total points: 23 with one AP left over

I'm going to have some more water and then make it an early night.

E.

 

[lulu201]

I'm doin' it, uh-huh, uh-huh, I'm doin' it! It's 8:20 a.m., and I'm happy to say:

1. I took the vitamins.
2. I'm finishing my coffee.
3. I've had two glasses of water.
4. I walked two miles on the treadie. (A little slower today at 30:46--hey, my bod is pokey at 6 a.m.)
5. I had a healthy breakfast: coffee (1), oatmeal w/milk, 1/2 banana, and 1 tbsp. almonds (4.3)=5.3 so far today. Target and AP is 24; whole new 35 in the flex bank!

Food plans for the rest of the day:

l--tuna on lite multi-grain, apple=6.5
s--strawberry yogurt and veggies=2
d--salad w/hard-boiled eggs, olives, dressing=8
dessert--s.f jello or skinny cow=2

The sun is shining so brightly today. Thank God for that. Seriously, I can't wait for and warm temps . How many days until Spring, Beth?

Yesterday I walked in my sweatpants and a sleeveless shirt; I had some of that "cut" going on, Lisa Z! I looked at my arms and they seemed smaller and more defined (particularly the upper arm) than I remember! I don't think I've EVER had a summer season approaching and felt like I wanted to give up my sweaters and layers to wear bathing suits and tank tops, but today I'm saying, "Bring it on!" I'm joining the Tankini Club this summer, ladies!

I'm walking the healthy living walk!

Erin

Oh, I almost forgot: I dropped another pound of that evil gift from the bloat fairy. The Whoosh Fairy has passed my house and is now making her rounds. Be ready, everyone!

 

[Strings]

Wow Erin!

You DO realize that it is Monday, right? Today you must be Super- Way to go. You've already accomplished so much today. Exercise, water, vitamins. Incredible. Keep up the good work, and any other cliches I can think of.

28 days until Spring.


Beth

 

[DoeWDW]

Erin, you sound so sunny and positive! I can HEAR the enthusiasm in your post!! We have a couple weeks to thoroughly enjoy these upbeat feelings and make this healthy living walk look easy! Glad to hear the scale is coming around - we all knew it would!

Best wishes for a good trip to the vet specialist. I'll keep Mickey in my prayers. Our furbabies are such a big part of our family and I hope the vet has some words of wisdom for you to help the little guy!

You're so ahead of the game - vitamins done, water started, exercise finished - WOW! Now you have me thinking about summer and tankinis!!

We have so much to look forward to - no reason to be sad this Monday! Even work isn't dampening my spirits and you seem to be happily sailing into the week! Yay for us! :happy1:

and , WISH-sis!!

 

[septbride2002]

Hi Erin! Can I ask what is wrong with Mickey? My FIL is a vet and I might have some info for you as well.

You sound so bright and happy today! Yeah for you! And that ugly pound is down the drain (literally)!

I hope you have a great day!

~Amanda

 

[lulu201]

Good afternoon, WISH buddies! Thanks for stopping by and sharing my mood. 28 Days until Spring? YAY! Four weeks to go! We should all make a pact to buy ourselves a bunch of flowers or lift a glass of something in celebration when that day comes.

Thanks, everyone, for your concern about my little Mickey. Mickey is a West Highland White Terrier, a breed known to be prone to allergies, as are many white coated dogs. Anyway, he's been a pink-skinned, itchy mess for the last few months--since his last fall allergy season. Since he was about 18 mos. (he's almost 6 now), he's had seasonal allergies that have sent him to the vet. Usually he has some itchy feet and an ear infection. This year he had his allergies, but instead of them getting better, they've continued to worsen. Until two weeks ago, he'd been off and on steroid treatment since October. At a visit to his groomer on 2/9, I got the name of a vet who practially has a specialty in westies w/skin disorders and we saw her today. We're monitoring Mickey's diet--he's going back on the duck and potato, Doreen, for now--and he's getting a new antihistamine (he'd been on benadryl before), along with ear drops, ear wash, and malaseb (sp) foot baths to help with itching and a secondary yeast infection. The dr. thinks that his primary problem is inhalant allergies, but because of a weakened immune system (made even weaker by vaccines given to him during a particulary bad allergy season in Oct.), he's got full-blown reactions going to other allergens (foods, dust, etc.) which might not have been that problematic up to this point. Fortunately for Mickey, his problem has been controlled enough so that he hasn't developed secondary bacterial infections or had any hair loss, but since dogs w/allergies usually continue to worsen as they get older, every effort has to be made to help Mickey's condition from progressing. In the dr.'s and groomer's opinion, he's too young to be dealing with all this at this point. AND I AGREE! I just want to help my little guy have a good quality of life!
So, if foot baths/soaks every other day, ear washes 2x a week, ear drops 2x a day, and antihistimines 2-3x a day will do it, I'm game! He goes back to the dr. in 2 weeks and we'll go from there.

Amanda, that's Mickey's story. . .any info you find out from your FIL is good to know-- if you ever happen to be talking to him about little white dogs.

Now I'm thinking I should take my pup for a walk; it's so nice out here and he's been through quite a lot this morning. I don't have to go into work until later, so I think I'll do some housework, type up my lessons, and take Mick for a stroll around the block.

Until later,
E.

 

[DoeWDW]

Erin, I'm sending a and some special allergy-alleviating for sweet little Mickey. I bet he was a trooper today and deserves that stroll around the block. Glad to hear the doc has some new ideas for you to try and hope he's feeling better real fast!

 

[honeymo78]

Erin - it sounds like you had a great weekend. And thanks for the reminder that spring is only 4 weeks away. I really needed that today.

I'm glad you discovered the low fat bread. I don't know what I would do without it - I love bread.

 

[marsh0013]

erin, so much has happened since i was here last! guess that's what happens when i'm mia for a day or 2

first off, i'm so glad to have helped you with the bread! i'm very glad that you decided to give it a chance. see, not so bad

second, whoosh fairy came by, wahooo! keep sending her around, we love that fairy

third, victoria's secret, i agree with the otehr girls, definitely go in there and don't just look around - buy! it's amazing the wonders that sexy underwear do. it can make you feel so confident

and you sound absolutely radiant in your posts! i can just tell that you are on such a high right now, and i'm so very happy for you

hope the rest of your day went well

 

[lulu201]

I AM POOPED AND I HAVE TO GET TO BED!

The day's points ended up being 24.5; half a point from the bank. I'm turning the clippie over and hitting the hay. Mickey, by the way, is totally zonked from his meds. DD is on her way to bed to and says "hi to anyone who knows about me."

Night, all--
e.

 

[DoeWDW]

Hi Liz!!

Now, off to bed, Erin!!