Team Donald – Biggest Loser “No Excuses” 2012 Challenge

[Rose&Mike]

Shawn---where are you???? Did you go somewhere and I missed it? I hope you are doing ok. I saw that there were tornadoes in NC the other day, and I hope it didn't effect you.

My emergency dinner tends to be a stir-fry of whatever ingredients are in the fridge or soup and a sandwich (which is less healthy but not too bad). For healthier take-out we have switched to boiled rice (instead of fried) and dishes not in batter of any kind from our local chinese. Its still quite calorific but we dont do it often and at least its better than it used to be

Epcot is my favorite park because I love eating my way round the world lol

I love that work--calorific! I have a really good stir fry recipe that is pretty healthy and has beans in it for protein! Yum! Since a lot of people seem to like stir fry, I will see if I can find a link to it.

Good Morning Team Donald!

Today has started off pretty rough, since I didn't sleep more then a few hours last night. Now, I'm dragging and just can't seem to get moving. Since I didn't sleep much I was starving most of the night and did eat a slice of left over pizza. But I quickly recorded it and will just have to keep it in mind later today.

I went and saw Breaking Dawn with a friend last night and I really liked it. It was nice to just go out with a friend and no kids or DHs. I was really proud that I bought 20oz diet soda and didn't even open it. I didn't even really want it, I really wanted water , but thought I'd want it later. I also got some of those peach rings, and only ate about 7 of them! So all in all, I did really well and stayed op with my calories for the day.

Glad you had fun! And great job skipping that diet soda!

We usually have a ton of leftovers in the freezer because that is what DH takes to work. Or I'll make a quick stir fry, if I have all the stuff and sandwiches if I don't.


My favorite park is Magic Kingdom, because it "is" Disney to me. I grew up on the west coast, so Disneyland/Magic Kingdom was the only Disney park to go to. So it is still my happiest place. It also helps that there is truly tons for everyone every age there.

The first park I ever went to was Disneyland. We lived in San Diego from 87-91 and I just loved popping up there for the day.

Thank you for the advice!! It is hard to not fall back into the habit of just going out, but there are so many benefits to eating at home! We haven't been out to eat at all since my diet started so we are off to a good start!! I like the idea of just going out for special occasions. I was never fond of fast food, my fiance could probably eat McDonalds every day of the week if you let him, and of course he never gains an ounce!

It is hard to not fall back into the habit, but another benefit--we have saved a TON of money since we stopped eating out. A ton!

OOH you are so lucky! I'm beyond jealous. I am from TN and went to Gatlinburg on my honeymoon 16 years ago and have been back tons of times since, I call Gatlinburg my "happy place!!" My husband is in the Army and at one point he was gone for training for a few months but he'd get off some weekends but couldn't come home. Well, Gatlinburg was our halfway point so we had 2 or 3 spontaneous trips there to meet up for the weekends he was free and those were some of the best trips. Even our kids have the best memories from them. We're stationed in Missouri now so we haven't been in like two years I hope you have a WONDERFUL time!!

I really like Gatlinburg. It's the halfway point between our house and DS's college, so we will stop for the night and hang out for a bit. I'd like to go for a long weekend, but am never really sure where to stay.

Set up for this morning: 3 hrs sleep, sick DS4, and I actually weighed 1.5lbs less then yesterday morning, I'm supposed to do day 1 week 2 of c25k, but I'm tired, cranky and just didn't want to... But I DID IT!
Normally I would have just put it off and might have done it the next day, but more then likely I would have just stopped... Now, I am still tired but I am not cranky anymore. I'm so happy and I owe it all to this team and challenge! Today was a big turning point for me and I'm so excited.

Great job! That is definitely a huge benefit of exercise. Most of the time it chases the crankies away.

I'm back, and determined to catch up here. Of course yesterday I said the christmas decorations would go away first, but I changed the order of my priorities. Dis, walk dog again, christmas decorations. We have nothing on the agenda for today, so I figure a little relaxing time is good for me.

Great job on getting rid of that chocolate! I have been know to do that--take it out and put it at the bottom of the trash can! Are the decorations down yet? I am sitting here enjoying my Christmas tree and lights on my mantle. The funny thing--those are the only decorations we put out and I still haven't taken them down! Our lights are still up outside too. Winter sucks, and I enjoy driving up and seeing them!

I have a question I wonder if someone can answer. I have been tracking what I have been eating everyday. I am on the 1440 cal plan with recommendations for specific nutrients made by MyFitnessPal. I am always under on the things I need to limit (like cholesterol, fat, sodium, etc.) except for sugar! I always have too much sugar. The goal it set for me is 29 grams per day! That seems really low to me. Any thoughts on what a reasonable goal for that is?

Hmmm. Is it sugar or is it carbs? I am always under on carbs, but that's cause I eat no bread or pasta, etc. Maybe a slice or two a week. Does it break down what food the sugar is in?

ok..here we go...my pics!

The first two are from right before I got preggo with my DD, So close to 4 years ago. I was about 24 at the time. That is what I consider to be the REAL me! That is the girl that I want in my wedding pictures in October! I am about 60 lbs away from being that girl again.

The other two are from our Disney trip this past December (I am 27 now, almost 28, but I feel like I look older then that in these pics). As you can see from the close up picture, I don't even look like the same person! That's why I look in the mirror and don't even recognize the girl looking back at me!! It is time to change that!

Great pictures. I am like that--I see my old pictures and don't recognize myself. I feel like I look at them and the real me isn't even there. But I was there, I was just a little sad and a little lost. You have a lovely family and you look very happy. You can kick the weight to the curb. The real you is in there too. Even now. Don't be sad, just channel that energy into healthy choices.

QOTD: Usually my food of choice when that happens is either a turkey sandwich on wheat with strawberries or sushi from a local sushi restaurant that I love.

Bonus--My favorite park is Hollywood Studios cause I love the movies! Plus Beauty and the Beast: Live on Stage! is my favorite show and I have to see it at least twice when I go to Disney. It's my dream to play Belle one day at that show.

I love DHS, too! And I love the b& the b stage show! That sandwich sounds good!

It was challenging getting back into the swing of it. I did not pay attention while on vacation, and food was coming at me from all directions...of course I completely forgot I was going to be careful, so gained some. So I had to scale down again. What made me quit before was sheer laziness. After I had lost the 55 pounds, and made our Disney trip, I was more or less, OK, I can maintain this. But did not take what I had learned and made it part of my life...back came the high portions, sweet treats and lack of activity. It was easier to just let it all go...don't plan to do that again. At least I came to my senses before gaining it all back!


Carol

Maintaining is trickier than people think, so I totally get what you are saying. It took me a good 6-8 months of maintaining before I started relaxing a little and not constantly worrying that I was one bite away from gaining it all back. But it is doable. And even when I put a couple back on, I don't worry as much now, cause I know I caught it quickly, and I know I did it before and that I can do it again.

My cravings don't seem to go down as much as I would like, but I am able to indulge in limited amounts, and keep track of them the same as my other foods. But I am more successful in talking myself into eating a banana or carrots with dip instead of a chocolate bar. Sometimes the cravings get a little too intense, like yesterday where I tried everything and fnally gave in to the chocolate. But I had my splurge points and got right back on track.
It will be a lifestyle change, I can't go back to the days where I have cookies for lunch.


Carol

Great job working your treat into your points!

 

[Rose&Mike]

So, I got my 8 miles in. (I am icing my foot as I type this.) I ran 2 minutes walked a minute and ended up with a 12 minute overall pace. I am happy with that, because long runs are supposed to be slower than race pace. If I could even finish Princess at 12 min miles I would be happy. (Ok, I won't be happy, it is much slower than I was last year, but I am coming back from a nasty, nasty injury, so I will take it and smile and be grateful that I am able to run again.)

Can you tell my brain has been having an internal struggle with this lately?

So after running (we were at the Y) I did the crankcycle and then did dips and pullups. As we were walking out to the car I asked Mike--tell me why again I like this sport and why I continue to think this is a good idea? (I was really tired, my foot was sore, and my legs were very sore from being undertrained due to the injury.) He looked at me and said---You looked really, really skinny when you were doing the pullups and dips. Ok, so I guess that's why I keep doing it.

I am going to watch the Pats/Broncos game (go Pats!!!) tonight, so I won't be around much. Everyone have a great Saturday night!

 

[jenanderson]

So, I got my 8 miles in. (I am icing my foot as I type this.) I ran 2 minutes walked a minute and ended up with a 12 minute overall pace. I am happy with that, because long runs are supposed to be slower than race pace. If I could even finish Princess at 12 min miles I would be happy. (Ok, I won't be happy, it is much slower than I was last year, but I am coming back from a nasty, nasty injury, so I will take it and smile and be grateful that I am able to run again.)

Can you tell my brain has been having an internal struggle with this lately?

So after running (we were at the Y) I did the crankcycle and then did dips and pullups. As we were walking out to the car I asked Mike--tell me why again I like this sport and why I continue to think this is a good idea? (I was really tired, my foot was sore, and my legs were very sore from being undertrained due to the injury.) He looked at me and said---You looked really, really skinny when you were doing the pullups and dips. Ok, so I guess that's why I keep doing it.

This was an awesome answer from Mike! I ask my DH all the time why I do this and he NEVER tells me that I look really skinny!

I am going to watch the Pats/Broncos game (go Pats!!!) tonight, so I won't be around much. Everyone have a great Saturday night!

Rose - I am sorry that you feel like you are still struggling. I think you are amazing to be able to do 8 miles already after having a bad foot injury. Today when we did our run, I was really upset that I couldn't go faster for some time but then I just had to keep reminding myself that it will come. With work and dedication, it will come again. It is so hard when you want to do a faster pace - again, you wil get there with work. I know that this probably doesn't help right know though but just think how strong you are to not give up after an injury and how strong you are to go back out there and work to get back to where you want to be.

 

[jenanderson]

It was a computer-free day for the most part so I am working my way backwards a bit!

DH is finally getting better, but I am working on making him homemade chicken soup. I feel guilty now because I did not make it for DD on Monday or Tues when she was sick. I opened her a can of Campels chicken soup Guess I get the bad mommy of the day award. DH is way sicker than she was and her cold was bad. I love my chicken soup so I am excited.

Glad that your DH is getting better. I love homemade chicken noodle soup but don't ever make it because I am the only one who eats it. Sadly, I will be making the zero point cabbage soup again this week.

My cravings don't seem to go down as much as I would like, but I am able to indulge in limited amounts, and keep track of them the same as my other foods. But I am more successful in talking myself into eating a banana or carrots with dip instead of a chocolate bar. Sometimes the cravings get a little too intense, like yesterday where I tried everything and fnally gave in to the chocolate. But I had my splurge points and got right back on track.

It is hard when you crave chocolate so badly. I am trying hard to deal with my chocolate cravings with sugar free hot cocoa but it is hard. I have always craved chocolate so I have to plan well to fit it into my week.

DH is feeling better, his cough seems to be clearing up. So far I haven't caught it, have tried to be careful and feel healthier! Doing a few things this weekend, but keeping it easy so DH can recuperate and DS study for exams. I don't mind a quiet weekend!

Evening Carol - Glad that you have been able to stay healthy! Hope that DH gets better soon and that DS gets his studying done.

We have been together for 8+ years and our wedding is October 11. The ceremony will be at cocoa beach, followed by a 6 day disneymoon!! I can't wait but it will be even more exciting if I am comfortable in my own skin!!

Your pictures were so great! Your family just looked so happy and your kids are adorable! I know you may not feel you look how you want to right now but that will change. You are working so hard and I bet by the time that your wedding comes, you will be feeling so much happier about it all!

 

[pjlla]

Hey friends. Finally had a few minutes to try to catch up but having trouble with replies here on the IPad. Just a few things that I remember....

Dona: glad DS is home safe but sorry about the job frustrations.

Rose:wooohoo on the 8 miles! And I agree...where is Shawn?

Kathy: a cruise to celebrate 50 sounds great!

Jujubee: thanks for sharing the pictures. You can find some recipes on the BL recipe thread...and maybe we could have a recipe sharing day!

Jen: the training plan sounds solid! You are gonna rock those races!

Deb: sorry about Colby's infection. Glad you caught it quickly.

Sorry that I can't respond to everyone right now. Been a busy day here but I'm happy about how much I got done! DS's b.ball team had a loss this morning but he scored a few times so he was happy.

Ate well today but didn't schedule any "real" exercise....hope the washing and wiping counts for something!

BBL.............P

 

[jenanderson]

QOTD Saturday, January 14
UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

Have a super, healthy Saturday! Do something fun today!

We almost always have egg beaters in the house. When an emergency dinner is needed, I pull out the frozen baggie of cut onions and peppers and add it to my egg beaters. I usually also have a jar of low fat spaghetti sauce and whole wheat noodles. We can add frozen veggies to that for a good meal as well.

Bonus - My favorite park...hands down = MK! To me, that is Disney.

Deb - Sorry that Colby's foot is infected. I hope that it is feeling better soon.

Ashley - I know that you said you did not lose any weight but I bet you are excited that your clothing is fitting differently. Sometimes that is a better feeling then losing a pound or two!

Sara - I think the hardest thing about the first few weeks is fighting through the stamina issues. As a runner who is starting over, I really understand how hard it is. Just fight through it because I promise that you can do it.

luvpoohandcompany - I have been using the My Fitness Pal the past couple of days and really love it. I found that there is a journal of sorts in there as well so I am using more and more of the app every day. I hope that your mom's sister is doing better!

Dona - I am sorry that your DS lost out of the 2nd interview. He always sounds like such an amazing young man and you must be proud of all that he does. I simply hope that something better comes along for him - something where they appreciate his hard work.

Pamela - HUGE thank you to YOU! I got a package in the mail from you today and spent some of my free time reading the WW magazines. I am going to read more tomorrow afternoon! I really appreciate you sending them. I will pass them along to someone else on the thread or to my friend who is new to WW! Glad you made it home safely last night!

Lindsay - Grandma's Marathon is an extremely well-known marathon in the midwest. It started when a group of guys wanted to have a marathon along the north shore of Lake Superior. They did not have enough money to do it so they asked a local restaurant, Grandma's, if they would help sponsor the event. Year's later, this marathon has grown immensely and Grandma's Restaurant does incredible business year round. The course is said to be beautiful and peaceful so we are excited to run this marathon.

Glad you had a great Zumba class today and I can't wait to hear all about the Disney vacation plans!

Michelle - I hope you are having fun in Gatlinburg! I think it is great that you took such a spontaneous trip!

Kathy - I just finished filling out the paperwork for my 150 hours of continuing education! I still need to get one more class completed (a mental health requirement) before I can do my renewal.

Great job tracking every bite this past week! I am sure that is going to really pay off!

Renee - I am so PROUD of you! It is great that despite the lack of sleep and a sick DS...you DID it! Great job sticking with it and starting week 2 of the C25K! I am sure it was hard in many ways but remember how great you feel when it was done. That feeling carries me through many hard runs! Keep it up!

Amy - My Fitness Pal has an issue with sugar I think. This morning I had a banana before my run and a clementine after my run and that put my sugars over. I was shocked! I might do some research online to see what is up with that or else I am just not going to worry about it much. My carbs are fine and I know my sugar is not coming from candy. If the sugar is all from fruit...then so be it!

 

[amykathleen2005]

QOTD Saturday, January 14
UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

Have a super, healthy Saturday! Do something fun today!

For take out we usually go to Steak and Shake or McDonald's. At Steak and Shake I get a grilled chicken sandwich and a side salad with light Ranch instead of fries. At McDonald's I get a grilled chicken wrap and either get apple slices or snag just a few fries from my husband (who can and will eat everything and still remain underweight).

My favorite park is EPCOT!!!

 

[GoofyPredsFan]

I really like Gatlinburg. It's the halfway point between our house and DS's college, so we will stop for the night and hang out for a bit. I'd like to go for a long weekend, but am never really sure where to stay.

I can definately understand that because there are so many choices! We have stayed in many different places, all depending on what we plan to do on that trip. I like chalets, but that's more if we plan to spend a lot of time in it. If we plan to hang out right in Gatlinburg a lot we'll stay as near the strip as possible. We have stayed in Pigeon Forge too. I love waking up in Gatlinburg, it's such a peaceful place early in the day. I hope you make it someday.

 

[GoofyPredsFan]

Your poor daughter! It's crazy you were still open when all around you are closed. Ours closes often when there is nothing by us, but the western edge of the county is in the mountains, and will have snow and ice, so it seems that school is out for rain!

Where is MO are you? Our satellite office is in Columbia, thought I had heard it was the northern half of the state that got it.

Carol

We live on Fort Leonard Wood, (the Army post). I think its pretty close to the middle of the state...about two hours southwest of St. Louis. I've only been here a year and a half and we leave this summer so I don't know about much of the state. I have heard of Columbia though, I wonder if it's not too far away.
--Lynda

 

[jenanderson]

Another good day. I think that since I have finally resolved to really do this, it is so much easier.

I started the day with a 5.5 mile run. It was really cold (8°) and windy but I just layered up and got out there. DH and I took a route that had a lot of hills so it was a really workout. Our pace was a bit slower then I wanted but I am trying not to let it get to me because I have to remember that I am building up from scratch again.

When I got home, I drank 64 oz of water in one sitting! Guess I was thirsty from the run!

Today was filled with laundry and cleaning. I did take a bit of time in the afternoon to relax, read a bit and look at some paperwork that needed attention. I also tried to find a place for DH and I to stay when we run our marathon in June. I tried tons of hotels in the area and could not find one that would work. There was either no open rooms or the room rate was FAR ABOVE what we wanted to spend. Looks like DH and I will be bringing our camper and camping. Tomorrow I will try to find a campground. I am a bit worried about that choice because that means we will be a bit further away from the race. I don't mind it but if the kids come with, I don't want DD trying to maneuver the roads on her own to come and see us. She will have only had her license for 1 month and the roads in this area are challenging for even experienced drivers. More research will be needed tomorrow.

Tonight we had a great dinner as a family and then all watched a movie together. Now it is time to relax and watch some hockey!

Have a great night everyone!
Jen

 

[cjdj4]

Glad that your DH is getting better. I love homemade chicken noodle soup but don't ever make it because I am the only one who eats it. Sadly, I will be making the zero point cabbage soup again this week.

Thanks for your get betters. You have been so sweet all week. No one like chicken soup in your house If I could send you a bowl from FL, I would.

 

[jillbur]

I haven't been on since yesterday morning and I can barely keep up when I miss a day! Now my computer is acting all slow, so I apologize for not responding to everyone. I hope everyone is staying warm and enjoying their weekend. I'm glad to be off on Monday with my boys, although DS8 had a slight fever last night & it's back tonight. He just looks drained. Poor thing. I am planning a crock pot meal tomorrow (beef tips over egg noodles) which wil help me get ahead with cleaning since I won't be cooking. Plus, it's football Sunday (even though my team didn't even make the playoffs). I am going to try to be better at checking in and responding tomorrow too!

QOTD Saturday, January 14
UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

Have a super, healthy Saturday! Do something fun today!

If we can eat at home, I usually go with whole wheat pasta and sauce. If we are out and about & I won't have time to cook, I like to go to Wendy's. Everyone in my family loves baked potatoes, so we get those (with just a little butter, salt, and pepper). I also enjoy Wendy's salads.

My favorite park is EPCOT. I love the rides and I love just strolling around the world. My family loves it, too. We also love Coral Reef restaurant. DS8 and I love seafood, so it's a favorite of ours.

Poor DS is studying for mid-terms, not much of a fun weekend for him. He is a very good student, although has some trouble with German. The mask is not as invasive as I thought it would be, but it is constantly pulling on his teeth, which is very uncomfortable. I think it is normal, but will call the dentist Monday to make sure. He is taking a lot of Advil, but wears it almost full time this weekend to make up for the time during the week when he is at school and practice. We have a few errands we are running tomorrow as well, as he will not be wearing it outside of the house (I wouldn't do that to the poor kid). Hope this whole braces process will only take a year like the dentist said, but he will probably need a retainer for awhile after that to make sure it all stays where is is supposed to.

Carol

Poor DS for having to wear a mask Why does he have to wear it?
My DS8 just got his spacers put in and will need an expander for a bit before the braces go on.

Hi Everyone! Congrats to everyone who lost!

Someone asked if us teachers have a three day weekend, and yes, I do have one. Actually, my district has 4 day no school Tues., but I worked today. I helped grade HS magnet school application essays. I do it every year. I love doing it because I love reading kids' essays. MS kids write the funniest things.

Epcot is my favorite park cause I love to eat and drink my way around the world.

#1~I am so glad there are people like you out there to read and grade essays because I do NOT want to do it. I have my kids write for History and I HATE grading the papers.

#2~I am TOTALLY in agreement with the EPCOT thing. Love drinks and love desserts

So, I got my 8 miles in. (I am icing my foot as I type this.) I ran 2 minutes walked a minute and ended up with a 12 minute overall pace. I am happy with that, because long runs are supposed to be slower than race pace. If I could even finish Princess at 12 min miles I would be happy. (Ok, I won't be happy, it is much slower than I was last year, but I am coming back from a nasty, nasty injury, so I will take it and smile and be grateful that I am able to run again.)

Can you tell my brain has been having an internal struggle with this lately?

So after running (we were at the Y) I did the crankcycle and then did dips and pullups. As we were walking out to the car I asked Mike--tell me why again I like this sport and why I continue to think this is a good idea? (I was really tired, my foot was sore, and my legs were very sore from being undertrained due to the injury.) He looked at me and said---You looked really, really skinny when you were doing the pullups and dips. Ok, so I guess that's why I keep doing it.

I am going to watch the Pats/Broncos game (go Pats!!!) tonight, so I won't be around much. Everyone have a great Saturday night!

Great job on the running. And, I am rooting for your Pats right now. I want Tebow to go down Oh yeah! NE just scored!


Okay, I am going to check back tomorrow. I have to get some grading done. I don't know why I assign so much work

Jill

 

[cjdj4]

I haven't been on since yesterday morning and I can barely keep up when I miss a day! Now my computer is acting all slow, so I apologize for not responding to everyone. I hope everyone is staying warm and enjoying their weekend. I'm glad to be off on Monday with my boys, although DS8 had a slight fever last night & it's back tonight. He just looks drained. Poor thing. I am planning a crock pot meal tomorrow (beef tips over egg noodles) which wil help me get ahead with cleaning since I won't be cooking. Plus, it's football Sunday (even though my team didn't even make the playoffs). I am going to try to be better at checking in and responding tomorrow too!

Poor babies! Don't you hate it when they are sick? You wish you could just wish it away. I hope everyone feels better soon.

#1~I am so glad there are people like you out there to read and grade essays because I do NOT want to do it. I have my kids write for History and I HATE grading the papers.

LOL! Let me clarify - I only had to read the essays and write the score. I did not have to make corrections or comments. I hate that part. I love reading the wack-a-doodle things they write. I literaly crack up. Sometimes I have to read them out loud to others because they are so funny. I would HATE it if one of my 8th grade papers surfaced, though. I don't even want to know what I wrote back then

#2~I am TOTALLY in agreement with the EPCOT thing. Love drinks and love desserts

Oh yeah baby!


Okay, I am going to check back tomorrow. I have to get some grading done. I don't know why I assign so much work

Right?

Jill

Enjoy your 3 day weekend!

 

[Mary•Poppins]

UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

I really feel like most of my days are like this at this stage in my life! This is why I try very hard to plan. If I plan, I am usually prepared. Also, I am a BIG leftover person. I usually make enough of something for another meal later in the week. And if I am really stuck, I resort to pizza. Not a healthy choice, but, we only eat it one a month ... twice if it ends up being a really crazy month.

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

I really don't have a favorite. I like them all for different reasons.

 

[Mary•Poppins]

The food network has a whole section on healthy apps:
http://www.foodnetwork.com/healthy_eating/healthy-appetizer-recipes/pictures/index.html

Also, this looks fabulous - http://www.kalynskitchen.com/2010/08/recipe-for-grilled-zucchini-pizza.html

Good luck!

Thank you for the website! I made the zucchini wraps with goat cheese. They were a BIG help. I left the few left overs with the hostess who loved them.

I can't wait to try the zucchini pizza. Those look delicious and very nutritious!

 

[akhaloha]

I've finally caught up! It's amazing how far behind you get when you don't go online for a day! I lost 1.4 this week. I was hoping for more, but a loss is a loss.

QOTD Saturday, January 14
UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

Have a super, healthy Saturday! Do something fun today!

This seems to happen at our house at least once a week. My go to emergency dinner is usually breakfast. We will have scrambled eggs with toast or a breakfast burrito. We always seem to have eggs on hand so I find it super easy and quick.

I love all the parks at WDW, but MK is extra special because it's so "Disney".

We went to see Mission Impossible tonight. I was surprised by how much I liked it. It had me on the edge of my seat!

 

[donac]

Good Sunday morning everyone.

Ds2 is leaving today, actually in an hour or so. He has been up since 4 since he is still trying to get his system back to our time. Check in starts at 9 so he wants to be there at 8:30 (he is just like mom and dad)

Thanks for all the well wishes for his job situtation. He is still optimistic that the person will call him. I hope he is right. He has contacted his professor to see if he can do anything since he has several grants from this company. We shall see.

We had a great dinner last night with our two sons. Ds2 told us about Gambia during dinner so it was nice. SInce dh is having his procedure on Monday he couldn't eat certain things which made dinner a challenge but we worked it out.

I have no idea what I am doing for dinner tonight. Dh can only have pasta so I may make myself a salad.

I have a busy morning this morning. Church, grocery shopping for dh's list of can eats today, and then do a service at the local nursing home.


UGGGH! Momma said there'd be days like this.....You had to work late, got stuck in traffic and the kids have to be at practice in 20 minutes. What's for dinner???? Do you have an emergency dinner planned for days like this? And there will be days like this. Do you have a healthy place to get take out from? Do you have something in the freezer? Do you have something quick and easy you can throw together on days you just don't want to cook?

My go to meal is pasta with tomato sauce and if I have any I add tuna to the sauce. If we are on the road then we try to find an Arby or Roy Rogers. We love their roast beef sandwiches.

My favorite park is probably MK but I do love all of them all.

I just found a new blog that fits in with this question. It talks about freezing meals to help make week nights easier.

www.mealplanningmagic.com

I haven't read the blog yet but plan to look it over. I love having things in my freezer to make the week easier. Unfortunately I have a small freezer and ds1 loves to fill it with with Healthy Choice meals that he takes to lunch. I have to work this out to make my life easier.

Off to get ready for the day.

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[dvccruiser76]

Good morning fellow losers and maintainers

These threads are flying, so I'm not even going to attempt to keep up with them and all the weigh-ins that have been coming in.

I did want to jump in quick and remind people to keep sending their weigh-ins. We're seeing some great results this week

Hope everyone has a great Sunday

 

[Rose&Mike]

QOTD Sunday, January 15
We have been talking a little bit about the voices in your head and negative self-talk and how harmful it can be. Having said that,

Give your self a complement. Ideally, I'd love to see three complements. But one catch. The complements cannot contain the following words: Mom, wife, friend, listener, daughter (you get the picture).

It's ok if you don't feel comfortable posting the complements here, but if you do that's great!

Did you find this easy or hard? How did you feel?

Bonus: If you could be any character for the day who would you be and why?

 

[Rose&Mike]

Hi Everyone! Congrats to everyone who lost!

Someone asked if us teachers have a three day weekend, and yes, I do have one. Actually, my district has 4 day no school Tues., but I worked today. I helped grade HS magnet school application essays. I do it every year. I love doing it because I love reading kids' essays. MS kids write the funniest things.
Since I worked today at a school site I was well prepared with my food. I even passed on the specialty donuts homemade donut holes, and believe me that was not easy. they lookd good.
DH is finally getting better, but I am working on making him homemade chicken soup. I feel guilty now because I did not make it for DD on Monday or Tues when she was sick. I opened her a can of Campels chicken soup Guess I get the bad mommy of the day award. DH is way sicker than she was and her cold was bad. I love my chicken soup so I am excited.

Great job on the food today! I hope everyone is feeling better in your house!

Rose - I am sorry that you feel like you are still struggling. I think you are amazing to be able to do 8 miles already after having a bad foot injury. Today when we did our run, I was really upset that I couldn't go faster for some time but then I just had to keep reminding myself that it will come. With work and dedication, it will come again. It is so hard when you want to do a faster pace - again, you wil get there with work. I know that this probably doesn't help right know though but just think how strong you are to not give up after an injury and how strong you are to go back out there and work to get back to where you want to be.

Thanks Jen! I was really very, very happy with how it went yesterday even while being frustrated at the same time. I am just not very patient! And I think part of it is, I worry sometimes that I am never going to be healthy again! But, you are right, I do remind myself I am a pretty tough cookie!

Ate well today but didn't schedule any "real" exercise....hope the washing and wiping counts for something!

BBL.............P

Hi P! Sounds like you had a productive day!

We almost always have egg beaters in the house. When an emergency dinner is needed, I pull out the frozen baggie of cut onions and peppers and add it to my egg beaters. I usually also have a jar of low fat spaghetti sauce and whole wheat noodles. We can add frozen veggies to that for a good meal as well.


Amy - My Fitness Pal has an issue with sugar I think. This morning I had a banana before my run and a clementine after my run and that put my sugars over. I was shocked! I might do some research online to see what is up with that or else I am just not going to worry about it much. My carbs are fine and I know my sugar is not coming from candy. If the sugar is all from fruit...then so be it!

A of people seem to like breakfast for dinner!
Good point about the carbs--maybe just watch the carbs and ignore the sugar. I think as long as you know the sugar is mostly coming from fruit, etc and not processed food, then that's a good way to handle it. I need to go back and look at this, cause I can guarantee I am over on sugar everyday. I bet beans (one of my main protein sources) have sugar in them....

For take out we usually go to Steak and Shake or McDonald's. At Steak and Shake I get a grilled chicken sandwich and a side salad with light Ranch instead of fries. At McDonald's I get a grilled chicken wrap and either get apple slices or snag just a few fries from my husband (who can and will eat everything and still remain underweight).

My favorite park is EPCOT!!!

Do they still have those snack wraps? Before I went vegetarian I used to have those occasionally. Good job resisting those fries!

Another good day. I think that since I have finally resolved to really do this, it is so much easier.

I started the day with a 5.5 mile run. It was really cold (8°) and windy but I just layered up and got out there. DH and I took a route that had a lot of hills so it was a really workout. Our pace was a bit slower then I wanted but I am trying not to let it get to me because I have to remember that I am building up from scratch again.

When I got home, I drank 64 oz of water in one sitting! Guess I was thirsty from the run!

glad it is feeling easier! 8 degrees---I am so not a cold weather girl. It was 30 and snowing so we did the treadmill. Starting over is hard, but I found that it comes back faster.

Great job on the running. And, I am rooting for your Pats right now. I want Tebow to go down Oh yeah! NE just scored!

Hope your DS is feeling better! Just to clarify--I am a Colts fan (and I like the Bengals, too.) We actually love college football more than professional and are HUGE SEC football fans and after hearing about Tebow for years while he was at Florida, we are soooooooo over him. That is why I was cheering on the Patriots yesterday! They looked amazing! My DH is from Wisconsin and he and my son are diehard Packers fans. (Though they will both cheer on the Colts and the Bengals). So it will be all about the Packers today at our house! (DH just hung out his Packers flag!)

I really feel like most of my days are like this at this stage in my life! This is why I try very hard to plan. If I plan, I am usually prepared. Also, I am a BIG leftover person. I usually make enough of something for another meal later in the week. And if I am really stuck, I resort to pizza. Not a healthy choice, but, we only eat it one a month ... twice if it ends up being a really crazy month.

Bonus--What is your favorite park at WDW and why????

I really don't have a favorite. I like them all for different reasons.

Great attitude. I agree, planning is the key. I love leftovers and plan them into our week.

Thank you for the website! I made the zucchini wraps with goat cheese. They were a BIG help. I left the few left overs with the hostess who loved them.

I can't wait to try the zucchini pizza. Those look delicious and very nutritious!

I have to check this out. I love goat cheese!

This seems to happen at our house at least once a week. My go to emergency dinner is usually breakfast. We will have scrambled eggs with toast or a breakfast burrito. We always seem to have eggs on hand so I find it super easy and quick.

We have a lot of breakfast lovers here!

Dona--where is your son off to now? Thanks for sharing the website. I hope it goes well for your DH tomorrow!

Good morning fellow losers and maintainers

These threads are flying, so I'm not even going to attempt to keep up with them and all the weigh-ins that have been coming in.

Thank you, thank you, thank you for being the weight keeper!
*******

so I never answered yesterday's QOTD. One of my biggest frustrations with going gluten free has been how difficult it is to eat out or even wait until the last minute to shop. I can't tell you how many times I wanted something for dinner and we ended up not being able to have it cause the store was out of it. For this reason I have become much better at planning.

We almost always have beans in the freezer or pantry so we can whip up healthy quesadillas or nachos. Together Mike and I can make the homemade tortillas and finished quesadillas in about 15 minutes. I usually have soup in the freezer and pantry. We like Amy's in the cans--no bpas in the cans. As long as I remember to keep g-f bread in the freezer we love grilled cheese and soup. There aren't a ton of gluten free pre made veggie burgers, but we found one we really like and we work really hard to have that in the freezer as well.

I guess the big thing is we really had to learn to plan. If all else fails we will get a baked potato from McAlisters or takeout from Moes.

And for those who love baked potatoes. I read that you can make them in the crockpot for crazy days. I haven't tried this yet, but I thought it was a great idea.