Team Donald – Biggest Loser “No Excuses” 2012 Challenge

[jillbur]

Probably my number one supporters have been my Mom and DD. My Mom has been a great sounding board.... especially back in the more difficult times when DH was NOT trying to lose weight and I was constantly surrounded by the junk he would want to eat.... daily batches of stove-top popcorn with plenty of real butter, ice cream, etc.

Now that DH is eating much healthier, life is definitely easier when it comes to food choices and avoiding the junk.

DD has always been a great cheerleader for me. She has left me notes on the scale on days when she knows I might be facing a challenging weigh-in. She often reminds me not to be frustrated and to look at how far I"ve come, versus how much I have left to go. Plus her amazing energy level when it comes to swim makes me feel like a slacker if I don't get in at least a MINIMAL amount of daily exercise. If she can swim 4 hours a day plus do homework, etc, SURELY I can fit in a measly 30-60 minutes!

DS isn't a HUGE supporter, but he is helpful in little ways. If it is evening and I am relaxing, he will often ask if I would like a cup of tea while we watch television. And knowing that I am trying to set a healthy eating example for him, helps keep me on track a great deal of the time.

But honestly, for the past few years, my BIGGEST form of support has come from this group!! I've met some amazing people IRL and made some great "virtual" friends here! And even the newbies are an encouragement to me! I LOVE this group!! I thank GOD every day that I have you all to talk.

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Good Sunday morning!

Sorry I wasn't feeling chatty yesterday. Having some drama with DD and it is really bringing me down. I'll try to share it briefly.

First, let me start by saying that you have a wonderful support group!

Next, for DD. How stressful! I hope she can go to CR and relax and have fun. I'm sorry she is not getting to swim, but maybe it's a blessing in disguise? I hope she (and you) feel better today!

Have fun at the party. I love Panera, and they do have a lot of good healthy choices too.

My sil Beth and brother Jim are definitely my biggest supporters. She came to disney with me for my half marathon last year, and watched michael for me, and through the years we've shared our ups and downs with weight, weight watchere, and when there is a family party and we're on track, if they are there I know we'll have some healthy options. She and I have also shared our clothes as our weight has gone down, and unforutnately up, we've traded back and forth. We do a lot of travelling with them because my niece is the same age as ds, so we are very close. Love them.

Thanks!

That is so awesome that SIL came with you to the half marathon! She sounds like a great support and it sure helps that you can exchange clothes! It probably makes it a lot easier at family function, too. Sometimes, like my parties today, I feel like the only one caring that I don't want to shove a piece of cake down my throat. Glad you have people to share with!

Getting a bit frustrated. I have been bouncing around 166-167lbs for more then the past week! So discouraging. I haven't changed how much I am eating. I track with My Fitness Pal.

Any suggestions?

Hmmmm...maybe try switching up your exercise? I am trying yoga and spinning one day each and I am seeing a difference. Also, when I go running, I try my usual route in reverse or try a whole new route so I don't get in a funk. Some days, I also may purposely eat a little more (healthy) calories just to give my body a change. Sorry I'm not more help. Maybe someone else will have better suggestions? Good luck! I've been there and it's frustrating. Just don't give up!!


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Well, I am off to my sister's house and then MILs. I will check in later!

Jill

 

[Rose&Mike]

Pamela--goodness, teenage drama is the worst. In their heads it truly is the end of the world. She might be really dramatic around you right up until she leaves, but my guess is once she is gone she will have a fabulous time.

I asked DS about this once--how everyone else can think he is the most laid back kid on the planet and how we saw the dramatic temper tantrums, etc. And he told me--cause I feel safe around you Mom. I can have a melt down and I know it's ok.

So, even though this has got to be killing you and your husband, it's awesome that she feels comfortable enough to "let it out" even though it may or may not be an appropriate reaction. DS was supposed to be "president" of the new youth group at our old church when he was in 8th grade. This was a huge deal, since he did not go to the church school. He adored the youth group leader. Just loved him.

So he interviewed for it, was accepted, and told them he could do any day of the week except one. And they knew that. They knew it when they offered him the position. And at the next meeting, in front of everyone they announced the meetings were going to be on the ONLY day of the week he could not be there. He was completely inconsolable. And what could we say to him--they treated him really poorly in my opinion.

I am not saying this is what your coach did--in this case it was just bad circumstances. But teens take that feeling of betrayal so personally. And they just can't think rationally sometimes. In the end I think Tom really learned something from the experience, and I don't think the leader realized how much it upset him. But I did write a letter and let them know. They had every right to change the dates. But I think people forget sometimes how hard it is to be a teenager, and how sensitive they are.

Hang in there. It's a bad situation to be in, but in the end I really believe she will enjoy her trip.

ETA--I just wanted to add, I am not trying to imply the coach did anything wrong in this case. It really was just bad circumstances, but that doesn't make it any less sad or stressful for your DD.

 

[::Snow_White::]

Well, EE, RnRC, and TOT are extreme for some people, so you can claim you've done something extreme! 2.2 is great! I'm so happy for you!


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Well, it's a little slow around Team Donald tonight. I have to get a couple things done around the house and I am heading to bed early. I am planning 9 am yoga tomorrow and then I have nothing else planned. I just told DSs that we will spring clean their rooms tomorrow. I am trying to purge stuff that really doesn't get used. Luckily, my boys understand that we need to get rid of things to make room for new stuff (like toys from Christmas and their birthdays coming in May). Plus, they love having garage sales. They make good salesmen as they play with all the toys and then kids want them! Plus, I just need some organization in their rooms.

I'll be back in the morning for the QOTD!

Have a great night.

Jill

Thank you!! I really like roller coasters, but that is the extent of extremeness. I'd love to go skydiving, but I'm sure I'd start crying and chicken out while in the air. I haven't even been on a plane because I'm too scared.

We have garage sales to make extra money to take to WDW. The problem with me is that I will usually "spring" clean my room every 2 months and I'm always finding more and more things I don't need. I don't know where it all comes from!

Great loss! Does anything specific stick out this week as the main reason for your success???

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Happy Saturday morning. I'm up and moving and drinking my coffee, but not in a mood to chat.... sorry. Hope you all have a delightful Saturday!! TTYL..................P

Thanks! I'm thinking it's the extra miles I had this week so I burned more calories. Also, my mom and I had a long talk about health (we butt heads when it comes to fitness and diet).My mom said she thought I ate too many carbs and that's why I'm not really losing anything (which is probably true) so I went crazy trying new vegetables and cooking them so it's been quite a shift in my diet.

Congrats on the loss - that's great!!
RnRC is pretty extreme! My husband doesn't care for it, but I LOVE it!!!

Happy Saturday, Everyone! I'm colouring with my DD6 and later I have to go to the eye doctor. Other than that, we hope to do our taxes and, fingers crossed, celebrate a refund

Thanks! I love most roller coasters. I think RnRC may not even be as bad as EE. The only problem is sometimes I get my head knocked around in the seat and it gives me a headache.

Good Morning Donalds!

QOTD:
I'd fly to Ireland and then to Italy! I've always wanted to visit both places.

Ohhh! Ireland would be amazing!

Congratulations on the fantastic run, and I think it's a great idea to plan out your victory speech. After my first 5k, I wrote a little trip report on the challenge thread at that time, and I will re read it occassionally and be inspired as to how far I had come at that time, and how I realized that I can do anything I set my mind to also. So happy for you.

Before I had ds I did one of those drop things at Six Flags. You're strapped in a harness and they pull you back up with a crane like thing and then you drop and it felt like we were going to drop and go right into the ground, but you swing back up just above the ground. No bungee type thing for me though. Probably more extreme to me was last year I jumped off my bil's boat in the lake. I had on a life vest, but it made me so nervous, and I really almost didn't get up the courage. I am not a strong swimmer and hate being in water over my head, but I did it. Ds is a little fish, and was jumping off without any problem.
I do not really have any extreme sport in mind, but ds wants to zipline, so we may do that, and as long as there is not water involved, I'll probably do anything he can coerce me into. I would like to try parasailing. It's does look so peaceful.
Thanks Jill, you've got me thinking. Having the dog now, we won't be taking as many over night trips this summer vacation, but maybe as a treat we'll do a day trip to the beach and try parasailing.

Hope you're all having a great day!!

Thanks! It was a great motivator and I felt amazing, like I could do anything.

Those drop things scare the heck out of me! I don't think I could do those!! Parasailing sounds like fun!

Half-marathon - that's awesome and impressive!! Great work You can do it!!!

Thank you! I'm nervous, but excited.

Immediately Hawaii came to mind since we've been doing so much planning...but

Today was a good day to be Mom here. This morning Nick bowled his first 200 game in bowling with a 221. His average is a 127 so this was huge. Then Hunter bowled his first 200 game at the High School Tournament today with a 201. Oddly enough he also has a 127 average. The icing on the cake was that the High School Team took first place in the first ever High School State Tournament today. That makes state and school History.

That's awesome!! Congrats to your sons!!

She is doing great! She's become really at home here and loves to have several cuddles throughout the day (she really isn't a lap dog but try telling her that!).

Here she is in a chair she seems to have claimed....

Adorable!!

Sunday QOTD

Today's movie is The Lion King

The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

I am my biggest supporter. My mom buys me a lot of vegetarian food and is glad I'm doing the half-marathon but day to day, it is more of myself pushing myself. My best friend is a vegetarian and might be doing the half-marathon too, but she lives in the dorms at her university so we aren't really there to push each other. Then of course, everyone here!!

DD has always been a great cheerleader for me. She has left me notes on the scale on days when she knows I might be facing a challenging weigh-in. She often reminds me not to be frustrated and to look at how far I"ve come, versus how much I have left to go. Plus her amazing energy level when it comes to swim makes me feel like a slacker if I don't get in at least a MINIMAL amount of daily exercise. If she can swim 4 hours a day plus do homework, etc, SURELY I can fit in a measly 30-60 minutes!

DS isn't a HUGE supporter, but he is helpful in little ways. If it is evening and I am relaxing, he will often ask if I would like a cup of tea while we watch television. And knowing that I am trying to set a healthy eating example for him, helps keep me on track a great deal of the time.

But honestly, for the past few years, my BIGGEST form of support has come from this group!! I've met some amazing people IRL and made some great "virtual" friends here! And even the newbies are an encouragement to me! I LOVE this group!! I thank GOD every day that I have you all to talk.

Another day of swim here today, so I won't be around this afternoon. I'll try to pop on again this morning before I leave the house. TTYL............P

Your daughter sounds sooo sweet! That's nice of her!

Sorry to hear about your daughter. Life isn't fair sometimes, I hope she feels better today and everything gets sorted out!

Whoo hoo!! Conratulations!! It definitely helps to register and know that you're definitely doing it now!!

Well, off to make some breakfast! Brocolli/cauliflour omelette anyone?

have a super sunday!!

Thanks! Mmm. I love broccoli! Cauliflower, not so much, but I'm sure it's still delicious.

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Woke up really tired today and felt sick for awhile but feeling better. Got 2.5 miles in yesterday in 36:22. Felt pretty good, hoping that it doesn't hold me back from my 5 mile run today. Friday I didn't really feel like exercising, but then didn't have anything else to do so I put on my nikes and did some wii boxing. Of course, after a few minutes I was all pumped up and ended up doing a 10 minute solution: boxing segment and then a 10 minute solution: pilates segment after my wii boxing. Dang, I definitely felt the burn after pilates!

Have to do a lot of cleaning, 2 tests this week, and an interview for an honor society. This week is going to be crazy + my running and exercise. I guess I will survive! Finally in the double digits for our WDW trip though!!

Hope you all have a wonderful and healthy Sunday!!

 

[trinaweena]

Well, I was on earlier replying and my computer just shut down

So, I am just getting around to replies. I am enjoying my day off with my boys. We went to Ohio to get gas ($3.29 vs. $3.65 here where I live~and it only takes 10 minutes to get to a Flying J), went to the library where DS5 got books on dolphins and killer whales and DS8 got books on Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster (don't ask), went to a late breakfast with my mom, and went grocery shopping. Now I am home watching The Tale of Despereaux and doing laundry.

I know I keep saying that I need to get back on track, but I really need to! Maybe booking my flights to WDW in May will be my motivation. I just lost it this week and have been making some poor food choices. I've been craving sugary things lately. So a cookie here and a chocolate here and I'm over my calories I'm not sure how to conquer these sugar cravings, but I am going to try hard!

QOTD~The most extreme thing I've done is probably only extreme for me DH and I hiked in The Great Smoky Mountain National Park. DH picked a "strenuous" hike up a mountain, which was fine, but parts of the hike were very narrow with drops on the side. Now, I do not enjoy heights, so I was scared a lot of the time. The hike was definitely "strenuous!" It was about 1.5-2 hours and when we got to the top of the mountain, it had the most beautiful views. I have to tell you, the hike down went much faster

I would love, love, love to be in one of those dive cages with sharks swimming around me! I think I'll put it on my bucket list. Anyone ever do anything like that? I really have no desire to free fall for any reason (sky diving, bungee jumping, etc), so that's about as extreme as I get.

Do any of you watch the new show from Ricky Gervais called "An Idiot Abroad: The Bucket List?" He sends his friend Karl on little trips to do things that people would have on their bucket lists. It's pretty funny! I think it's on the Science Channel or something.

Well, I hope everyone is starting their weekend off right. I'll check back later~maybe more people will be on later.

Jill

I watch an Idiot Abroad, I've been a huge fan of Ricky, Steve, and Karl ever since the days when they used to do a podcast, like seven years ago or so. Karl is a unique individual haha

QOTD Saturday

Today's movie is Peter Pan

You can fly, you can fly, you can fly! If you could fly off anywhere today, where would you go (other than Disney) and why?

I would probably just head to Europe. I'm not quite sure where, just..somewhere! There are so many places I want to visit

QOTD~Friday

Todays's theme is the movie Cars

Lightning McQueen likes speed. How about you? Have you ever done any extreme sports, or something that was extreme for you? Or, are any on your "bucket list?" If you have, which sport(s) did you try and did you like it? If you have one on your "bucket list," which one and why?

I do have a bucket list! One of the biggest things I want to do is swim with great whites, or at least go to south africa and get to see their jumping displays. Sharks are one of my favorite animals, so this is a big thing for me. I also want to visit every state, and every continent, run a marathon, learn spanish, portuguese, german, and french, i have lots i want to do..none of them are very thrill seeking

i've never done sky diving or anything like that i have NO DESIRE. Let's see, I've swum with dolphins (discovery cove is AWESOME), i've worked with wolves, bears, and tigers, we go boating alot not that's very exciting (although i have had to dive down under the boat to untangle the propeller from a rope and that was NOT FUN, boat hit me on my head), i've gone deep sea fishing many times, i used to spend my summers on a fishing boat and a farm. I've done many dangerous things on horses (think circus tricks), and I've worked with many many different animals

I don't know, i guess the things i've done are not the most thrill seeking but they are exciting to me!
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The stomach aches are back, I went home from work early today I just couldn't stand it. Just feeling nauseous all the time. My boyfriend thinks it anxiety and im starting to agree with him so that's the next option to explore. He doesn't think im lactose intolerant because im still getting sick with no dairy, but i cant explain to him that i feel worse/different kind of stomach ache when i eat dairy.

i was worried his attitude might be transferring to his parents, which would worry me since we are going to disney with them and i dont want them to be like oh its fine your not actually lactose intolerant, but i guess they mentioned to him that if i needed the reservation numbers so i can call the restaurants they would give them to me. so that's good at least.

i'm getting quite frustrated and i think im just all out of whack. I was up a pound this week, which is my first gain so it was a little dissapointing, but its also that time of the month. I'm not really tracking anything cause like i said before my meals are so eradic. I have zero appetite. Mostly i'm just eating toast, very rarely have full meals.

So i will be calling the doctor tomorrow. I'm concerned i'm losing muscle mass, i feel more bony than i have ever been. (of course still not losing stomach fat!)

Just found out that big thunder mountain and test track will both be down during out trip! Those are two favorites of mine! How dissapointing!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend! Oh and thanks for all the study abroad advice! I've decided that if I can come up with the money, I will totally do it. It's too big of an opprotunity to not go through with it! I'm looking at London, even though the cost of living is ridiculous, but i will only be there a month

 

[Leitadala]

Thank you Pamela for coaching last week!You rock!

I am Jill and I will be your coach this week! I'll tell you a little bit about myself. I am 35 years old, married, and have two boys (8 & 5). We live in beautiful western PA (so beautiful we rarely see the sun). I am a teacher (in my 12th year) at an alternative ed program for disruptive youth (some kids are court ordered to be there, others have been sent from schools for behavior reasons). Some days I love my job, but others I want to strangle someone (teenage boys can be a challenge lol)!

Yes, thank you Pamela! And thanks (in advance) Jill!

QOTD~Friday

Todays's theme is the movie Cars

Lightning McQueen likes speed. How about you? Have you ever done any extreme sports, or something that was extreme for you? Or, are any on your "bucket list?" If you have, which sport(s) did you try and did you like it? If you have one on your "bucket list," which one and why?

Some people listed some very cool things! I've done white water rafting, and I really enjoyed trying surfing (which was one of my "bucket list" items)!

QOTD Saturday

Today's movie is Peter Pan

You can fly, you can fly, you can fly! If you could fly off anywhere today, where would you go (other than Disney) and why?

I'd go visit my family in Texas for sure! Or go back to Hawaii. Or go north to Churchill to visit the polar bears and watch the Northern lights

Sunday QOTD

Today's movie is The Lion King

The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

DH is my greatest supporter, and I know how lucky I am to have him. He works out with me when I want a partner, and he cooks the healthy meals that I plan. Plus he's also been making my post-workout breakfast for me so that I have time to go work out, come home and shower, and then get to work on time!

Sorry I wasn't feeling chatty yesterday. Having some drama with DD and it is really bringing me down. I'll try to share it briefly.

That's such a bummer for your family. High School is full of so many ups and downs, I'd never want to go back to that time! Will your DD have another opportunity to be on the team? I hope you all end up having a great vacation despite the swimming disappointment.

The stomach aches are back, I went home from work early today I just couldn't stand it. Just feeling nauseous all the time. My boyfriend thinks it anxiety and im starting to agree with him so that's the next option to explore. He doesn't think im lactose intolerant because im still getting sick with no dairy, but i cant explain to him that i feel worse/different kind of stomach ache when i eat dairy.

i was worried his attitude might be transferring to his parents, which would worry me since we are going to disney with them and i dont want them to be like oh its fine your not actually lactose intolerant, but i guess they mentioned to him that if i needed the reservation numbers so i can call the restaurants they would give them to me. so that's good at least.

i'm getting quite frustrated and i think im just all out of whack. I was up a pound this week, which is my first gain so it was a little dissapointing, but its also that time of the month. I'm not really tracking anything cause like i said before my meals are so eradic. I have zero appetite. Mostly i'm just eating toast, very rarely have full meals.

So i will be calling the doctor tomorrow. I'm concerned i'm losing muscle mass, i feel more bony than i have ever been. (of course still not losing stomach fat!)

Just found out that big thunder mountain and test track will both be down during out trip! Those are two favorites of mine! How dissapointing!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend! Oh and thanks for all the study abroad advice! I've decided that if I can come up with the money, I will totally do it. It's too big of an opprotunity to not go through with it! I'm looking at London, even though the cost of living is ridiculous, but i will only be there a month

I hope they find a reason for the stomach issues! Lots of times I've dealt with pain or discomfort, just to finally visit a professional and find out there is a reason and a solution for what ails me. I hope this is true for your situation!

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I had a very busy Saturday, but found time both yesterday and today to get some cardio in! It was my personal goal this week to fit some in every day so I'm really happy about that! Tomorrow our office starts our "Biggest Loser" challenge so I bought lots of healthy foods (we are preparing salads for the week - mushrooms, tomatoes, quinoa, and lettuce) and feel ready to go!

I also had a friend point out that MyFitnessPal is even more successful if you have friends - so if anyone is looking to add people please add me! "Leitadala" !

Have a great Sunday night!

 

[ougrad86]

WI-FI!!

Wi-Fi won't be for awhile, if at all. While I would love it, DH works with computer stuff for the government, and is a little over-the-top security concious. It took forever to get us off dial-up, we were still using it back when alot of the country was not. At this point I am just happy to have the cable!

I messed up the beginning the the quote so will just answer the question. Green life - we recycle at home and at work. We have single stream recycling, so a lot goes into the recycle bin. Only about one bag of trash a week. Combine trips, turn down thermostat. Not as good about it as we should be.

I loved Whitney Houston years ago. I bought her new CD when in came out of greatest hits. Her voice had changed - it was not a pure as it had been, some speculated because of the drugs. Based on what I have heard so far, it does not sound like illicit drugs or suicide. She may have accidentally OD'd on prescription pills, maybe sleep aids and mixed them with alcohol. She was supposed to be really happy and excited the day she died. But we won't know for sure. I have a lot of her earlier songs on my iPhone and enjoy them. The newer ones I do not listen to much. I am sad she died, and we lost such a wonderful talent, and sorry for her daughter. Bobbi Brown, not so much. I think he messed her up.

QOTD for 2-14-2014:
Using your name as a base, build a poem of positives traits and attributes about yourself. (I know this type of poem has a name, but I can't remember what it's called....any teachers wants to help?)
Bonus QOTD: Tell us about your most memorable Valentine's gift ever...best or worst.

C - Cautious
A - Agreeable
R - Realistic
O - Optomistic
L - Loving

Can't think of one special one off the top of my head. Valentine's Day tends to be low-key. DH usually sends me flowers (at the office), and I get him a card. DS seems to have outgrown it, nothing from him this year.

But now, I'm hungry... I've already had dinner (ate before my workout) and I really don't want to be eating after 8pm, but then again, shouldn't I eat when I'm hungry?

If you are hungry, eat. After a workout some protein in in order. Peanut butter in moderation is good, a cheese stick, a glass of milk. I don't really go by the rule of don't eat after such a time - a calorie is a calorie. And your metabolism is already elevated from the workout, will be for a few hours.

QOTD for Wed., Feb. 15, 2012Using photos and/or descriptions, tell us about one of your favorite HEALTHY, WEIGHT-LOSS-JOURNEY WORTHY foods! Remember, we want to be DROOLING by the end of your description and BEGGING for the recipe!

Bonus QOTD:
What little bit of silly DISNEY do you have in your life every day? A piece of jewelry? A sticker on your journal? Do tell!

OK, that picture of your chili was wonderful...I will have to make it, based on that alone! And I am not a huge chili fan! I think DH will love it though...

I haven't taken pictures, don't have anything available. You have seen the African Meatloaf, nasty looking, but good. My Curry Chicken salad is also wonderful, but kind of boring looking.

On my key ring, I have a crystal I picked up in HS I think. It has the castle etched inside of it. I actually got some extra last time I was there, because when I do drop my keys, it usually breaks off a chunk of the crystal. Not dangerous, it is not sharp, bit not pretty. Will need to go look, not sure where I stored it!
Also have some pins that I do not trade, would like to get a picture frame around a small corkboard and put them on that for display that I could see everyday.
Otherwise I just change it up. I have earrings and shirts I wear regularly.

So I was proud that I started taking vitamins at the end of last week (Flintstones with Iron). I thought it would help me to top up the nutrients I miss in my diet.
However, this week my stomach also feels like there is a balloon in it for the past few days! Sad to find out today that it is the vitamin (specifically the iron). Blah. I don't think I am going to have any weight loss this week.

I take Centrum Silver - mainly because I am over 50. It has less iron, since I need less now, and a lot more of B vitamins and such. It seems to make me feel a little better than the other one with regular iron. Some people do have a sensitivity to iron, and too much is actually dangerous for you.

QOTD for Thursday, February 16, 2012
Do you have "tips" that you would like to share with other busy, active, possibly-overwhelmed folks who are on this healthy journey? Please list anywhere from 1 to 10 of your best tips! The tips can involved quick meal ideas, ways to add extra exercise, or (my favorite) organizational and/or planning tips!
BONUS QOTD:
Pessimist or Optimist?
Black or Navy?
Chocolate or Chips?
Math or Spelling?
Outgoing or Shy?
Summer or Winter?
Night owl or Morning dove?
City or Country?

1. Find some motivation that will keep you going through-out your journey, such as trips, children, health, etc. A group like this is also motivational, since they encourage you and give you ideas and tips...and you realize you are not alone!
2. Plan ahead, make lunches ahead of time, make grocery lists, etc.
3. Have a couple of quick, easy items to turn too for fast, easy meals when you forget to plan or things don't quite work out.
4. If you fall off the wagon, get right back on...sometimes I lose weight after an off-plan day! Don't let it discourage you.
5. If you don't have time for going to the gym, try and work exercise into your everyday life - walking during lunch or after work, dancing around as you make dinner, strength exercise sets during commercials, etc. - I am still working at this, but getting better - exercising almost every day!
6. Journalize - find a way that works for you. Notebook, smartphone apps, WW - whatever is easiet for you so you can stick with it. Journalize calories, fat, carbs, points - decide what to monitor and keep track of everything, even when you go off plan.
7. Don't deprive yourself, just everything in moderation. When you have a treat, take your time and savor it so it lasts.
8. Weight yourself regularly. If everyday, be prepared for the ups and downs that is normal and don't let it discourage you, but help you stay better on plan. If you are easily discouraged, weight yourself less often.
9. Use the tape measure...sometime is does not reflect on the scale - and keep some old clothes to try and fit into! They will fit again.

Pessimist or Optimist? Optomist
Black or Navy? Navy
Chocolate or Chips? Chocolate
Math or Spelling? Love math, really good at spelling
Outgoing or Shy? Shy
Summer or Winter? Winter
Night owl or Morning dove? more Morning, but best is mid morn, early aft
City or Country? Country

Non Scale Victory for me this week: I received a really nice solid red sweater for Christmas from my parents. When I tried it on when getting back to Switzerland in early January, it was too tight. BUT...For Valentine's DAy I needed something red to wear and I decided to give it a try. It fit...perfectly. And since it was not my typical baggy sweater style, a lot of people commented about how I was losing weight and looking good. Ahhhhh that is a big boost in the encouragement department. I think it is my new favorite piece of clothing.

I love it when I fit into old clothes!

The one thing we haven't been able to find for her trip is SHORTS. I know that she is assuming that nothing she has will work or will fit properly, but I found SO MANY pairs in her room, I can't imagine that none of them will work. And if it isn't enough she can borrow some of mine. I've been looking around as I've been out lately and can't seem to find shorts anywhere. Our favorite place for casual summer stuff is usually Old Navy and they didn't have shorts last time we were there. If we are really desperate I may end up searching the GW or SA over the weekend.
I did end up folding all of the laundry except for the white load in the dryer. I hate folding whites! (well.... mostly I hate sorting socks.) Sink is empty, lunch is eaten, 51 minutes done on the TM (brisk walking with hill intervals while wearing a weight belt, ankle weights, and carrying weighted balls). I left the TM out and will do another five minutes here and there as I have time (well..... that is the plan anyhow! )

Need to look for shorts for our April trip as well! Will need to hit the mall in a marathon trip maybe two weeks before we leave, since I want to give myself as much time as possible before I buy. Still hoping to reach that magic number 160 before we leave.
I have not worn shorts in forever. I have always hated my legs - they were too fat, and since I have dark hair, they never looked as nice as I would have liked even when just shaved. So I always wore pants, light-wight if needed.
Last summer my friend talked me into a water park - I needed to get a swimsuit. I screwed up my nerve, and bought a nice modest suit and honestly, it was not that bad - and no one looked twice. It'll be the same at Disney, no one will care that I am wearing shorts - there will be better and worse on either side of me.

I hate folding whites, I can handle the others. DS folds the whites. Except for my underwear - he will just put that in a pile . I think it embarrasses him...

QOTD~Friday
Todays's theme is the movie Cars
Lightning McQueen likes speed. How about you? Have you ever done any extreme sports, or something that was extreme for you? Or, are any on your "bucket list?" If you have, which sport(s) did you try and did you like it? If you have one on your "bucket list," which one and why?

I am moving back up to roller coasters - for some reason I got off of riding them. Plan to do the Hulk and Dueling Dragons at Universal this spring. Not quite to Rip Ride Rocket though! Planning some of the bigger ones at Busch Gardens Williamsburg when we go this summer as well.

Would also love to get courageous someday and try a zip line. I love speed, and it looks like so much fun, even though I am afraid of heights. The step off would be hellacious, but then I think I would really love it!

I used to ride motorcycles with old boyfriends, but DH thinks they are deathtraps. At my age, I think I would worry about zipping around without any protection on either side except a helmet, and the drivers here tend to be aggresive, so probably won't be doing it again, unless I get a big acreage someday I can run around on.

I have always thought about sky diving but have never found anyone to go with me. I feel this is and experience that should be shared. But I also am not so sure about the feeling of being up in the air like that. So I am taking a baby step and trying some para-sailing. I signed up for it on Castaway Cay during my upcoming cruise. This way I can get a new experience as well as try out what it is like to be suspended in air from a large piece of canvas, all the while remaining tethered to the boat.

I just can't see any reason to leave a perfectly good airplane . But para-sailing would be fun. Again, my fear of heights would be there, but I think again, I would be having so much fun, I would not notice as much...until the landing .

Those sling shot/bungee things look so scary! I don't think I could do it, but it is extreme!
So, I am just getting around to replies. I am enjoying my day off with my boys. We went to Ohio to get gas ($3.29 vs. $3.65 here where I live~and it only takes 10 minutes to get to a Flying J), went to the library where DS5 got books on dolphins and killer whales and DS8 got books on Bigfoot and the Loch Ness Monster (don't ask), went to a late breakfast with my mom, and went grocery shopping. Now I am home watching The Tale of Despereaux and doing laundry.

I don't think I can do the slingshot thing ever - just to intense. I have seen it in action. But Julie on the podcast did it, described it...aauugh!
My DS was into Bigfoot and Loch Ness Monster about that same age. Into Atlantis as well, around the time the cartoon came out. I think every kids wonders about that for awhile.

QOTD: I never really was interested in anything extreme, I'm too scared! Zip-lining seems like fun, but I'm sure I'd chicken out. The most extreme thing that I will do is EE, RnRC, or TOT.
I am down 2.2 this week! This week has been good to me.

EE and RnRC was my first big test getting back to coasters. I laughed during ToT while my friend just about clawed my arm...but we are riding it again this spring, and my DS and her DD are doing so as well! They discovered that coasters can be fun last summer at Hershey are now are really excited to try what they can. My friend chickened out at Hershey last summer, so I took the kids, they could not get enough! My friend promised me she would do the Hulk, and I am trying to get someone to go on Dueling Dragons with me - it might work if they conquer the Hulk first.

QOTD Saturday
Today's movie is Peter Pan
You can fly, you can fly, you can fly! If you could fly off anywhere today, where would you go (other than Disney) and why?

Normally I would fly to Germany, but my sister-in-law just had twins. I would love to go see her! We will see them, but not until this summer. Right now, my mom is there with them, helping out, as she did with me when I had DS. Kind of nice to have that sort of experience showing you the ropes!

I, too, am a frustrated world traveler. Actually, I am a frustrated traveler in general. So many places to see, so little money

Amen to that. We have been saving up for this Germany trip for awhile, but still have to fit in WDW to get our fix. Still want to take DS to Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, but airfares are through the roof.

Sunday QOTD
Today's movie is The Lion King
The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

My mom is supportive, but always asks, and I find it a bit trying to tell her I lost one pound this week, week after week. So I did it on my own this time and surprised her. She was a bit critical of people who are overweight, said a couple of hurtful things to me, possibly trying to motivate me. It had the opposite effect. I finally started countering her when she would criticize other people about weight, and she has stopped saying things liked that.

DH tries, but is not worried about his own weight - he likes to bring me candy and cookies when I am depressed...DS supports me in that he seems happy that I am slimmer. He walks with me when I aks him to as well, even though walking with mom is not his favorite thing. I tell him I need him for protection!

My best friend encourages me (she told me I looked nice in my swimsuit), but it is not on a regular basis. When I am discouraged, I come here and talk to everyone. And I a couple people at work if I need a quick fix, but these boards have been the best!

DD has had a dream for about 5 years of making it to Age Groups for swimming. When she was deciding about her trip to Costa Rica last year, one of the deciding factors was whether or not it would keep her from going to Age Groups if she were to have a qualifying time. Since the trip returns on a Friday night and Age Groups is that weekend, we figured she would be able to squeeze it in if she qualified.
Well.... she didn't qualify in any personal events, so I put it out of my head. But Friday night her swim coach came up to her and offered her a spot at Age Groups in a relay. I'm sure at that moment DD's head was ready to EXPLODE with excitement! But as quickly as that, the coach realized that DD would NOT be here to practice with the girls next week and she immediately retracted the offer and gave it to another girl.
How DD made it through that practice without a complete break-down I don't know, but she did..... but the floodgates opened when she returned home and she was TRULY nearly hysterical for about 2 hours. She is just BESIDE herself and no longer wants to go to CR. She wants to give up her spot and stay here to practice for Age Groups..... despite the fact that the spot is no longer open for her.
DH and I are HEARTBROKEN for her, but we are also aggravated and frustrated with her. She is being absolutely unreasonable about it. She is threatening to refuse to go on the trip. I don't know what to say to her to make her see that this isn't really a good option. The relay spot is GONE. Even if she were to not go to CR, I don't see the coach pulling the spot away from the other girl and giving it back to DD. And I'm sorry, but we aren't wealthy enough to just say "oh well" to losing $3K on this trip!
I'm PRAYING HARD that she will wake up today with some new resolve. I don't expect her to NOT be disappointed about the relay. But I do expect her to realize that giving up the trip to CR isn't going to help or change anything.
I'm in a bit of a panic now because she has not even STARTED to pack, since we were going to do it yesterday and Friday night. She hasn't tried on any of the clothes I laid out. If we don't get packing done today...... I mean, NOTHING is done, except for the fact that I gathered up the stuff she got for her trip for Christmas and I bought her some new socks. She hasn't decided which camera to take, she hasn't checked to see if the cameras have good batteries/memory cards. She didn't like the hiking sneakers I bought for her and she hasn't even checked to see if she has any other decent sneakers to take.
I'm just a big ol' ball of stress over this right now. I KNOW in my heart that she will go to CR. But I'm so sad that this drama will taint her entire trip and it won't be nearly as exciting or special as it should be. I wasn't really worried about her being away or anything, but now I KNOW I will be concerned about her frame of mind the entire time. It is all making me a bit sick. (Sorry, that wasn't too brief.)

Poor dear, and you and your husband. The teen years don't always encourage logical thinking. She was probably holding it in all through the match and at that point was too keyed up and emotional to realize she still wouldn't be able to swim at this point. I hope after a good night's sleep she will understand better. I think once she gets past this disappointment she will love the trip - there will be so much to distract her there!

****************************************************
Had a fun day yesterday. DS and myself went bowling with my best friend and her DD. She and I did not bowl, we both have carpal tunnel issues, so I don't do stuff like that to make my arm hurt. They had fun and we did the last of our planning. Universal if so different from Disney - we are staying at the HRH, have FOTL access and early entry to WWoHP - we do not really need to plan, except for our two Disney days.

I managed to keep it down too one slice of medium cheese pizza. They had funnel cakes as well, and I looked it up before I went, thought it was 13 - when I got back realized 1/2 cake was 13 . I did not like it much (not well made), so only ate 1/3, but still...I had only been planning to eat 1/2 when I thought it would only be 6 or 7. Oh well, good thing I did not like it as much.

After we got back, it was so nice, I decided it was perfect for a walk. I had a free geocaching app, and a few to them were nearby, so I took DS with me - for protection, since I had my phone out - and we did a lot of searching. Did not find a darn thing, but we found where one should have been for sure. When I looked it up when I got back, found the other one needed maintenance and had been "muggled", so it probably wasn't even there. Found a few that may be easier, but will have to hit those another day. But it was an awesome walk on a beautiful day, and some time with my DS. I think I will probably do some more. I tell DS I need him to be with me, since iPhones are prime targets, so we hang out together and maybe I will find one of these things!

Waiting for the promised snow, but it appears to be too far south, so we probably won't get much. Bummer. I figure our limit is mid-March, and after that I need to wait until next year...

And got to update my weight loss ticker. Fell to 170 last week, and fell below this week, to 168.75! Plan to keep it there and heading further down! Was very happy to see that, since the day before I was heading for a gain!

Time to start dinner, running a little late but it is a quick fix. Hope everyone is doing well and staying OP!

Take care!

Carol

 

[belledreamer]

Lots of catching up to do today!!

QOTD~Friday

Todays's theme is the movie Cars

Lightning McQueen likes speed. How about you? Have you ever done any extreme sports, or something that was extreme for you? Or, are any on your "bucket list?" If you have, which sport(s) did you try and did you like it? If you have one on your "bucket list," which one and why?

I am probably the least extreme person I know. The most 'extreme' thing I've done was ride Rockin' Rollercoaster and it took me four trips to get my nerves up to do it. I still haven't ridden Everest yet...

QOTD Saturday

Today's movie is Peter Pan

You can fly, you can fly, you can fly! If you could fly off anywhere today, where would you go (other than Disney) and why?

I'd fly to the Marriott Los Angeles Airport in California to catch the end of the Doctor Who convention going on right now so that I could meet one of the actual Doctors in person!

Sunday QOTD

Today's movie is The Lion King

The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

Both my parents have, but especially my DM who's been a major help in planning meals and picking out healthy snacks for me to try. And of course my Disney loving cousin. We're 11 years apart but we're best friends and she's been my personal cheerleader for this journey.

Getting a bit frustrated. I have been bouncing around 166-167lbs for more then the past week! So discouraging. I haven't changed how much I am eating. I track with My Fitness Pal.

Any suggestions?

No suggestions, but a and I totally know how you feel. I've been stuck at 200lbs for the past three weeks and it's driving me crazy!

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Be back later with updates!

 

[jillbur]

Thank you!! I really like roller coasters, but that is the extent of extremeness. I'd love to go skydiving, but I'm sure I'd start crying and chicken out while in the air. I haven't even been on a plane because I'm too scared.

We have garage sales to make extra money to take to WDW. The problem with me is that I will usually "spring" clean my room every 2 months and I'm always finding more and more things I don't need. I don't know where it all comes from!

I am my biggest supporter. My mom buys me a lot of vegetarian food and is glad I'm doing the half-marathon but day to day, it is more of myself pushing myself. My best friend is a vegetarian and might be doing the half-marathon too, but she lives in the dorms at her university so we aren't really there to push each other. Then of course, everyone here!!

Finally in the double digits for our WDW trip though!!

Hope you all have a wonderful and healthy Sunday!!

I do not like heights, but I am fine in an airplane. I just tell myself that we'll be in Florida in 2 hours vs 16 in the car (well, probably more like 24 after we stop with the kids).

Sounds like your mom is being very supportive! And, you're doing great being your own supporter.

We are in double digits, too! We are at 89 days. Just me and DH are going for 4 days 3 nights. It's just a weekend getaway to check out the resorts to plan for next year. I can't believe I'll be planning for next summer already lol. We are doing Epcot one day. It should be fun as just adults and no kids since we want to snack and drink around the world showcase.

I watch an Idiot Abroad, I've been a huge fan of Ricky, Steve, and Karl ever since the days when they used to do a podcast, like seven years ago or so. Karl is a unique individual haha

I would probably just head to Europe. I'm not quite sure where, just..somewhere! There are so many places I want to visit

I do have a bucket list! One of the biggest things I want to do is swim with great whites, or at least go to south africa and get to see their jumping displays. Sharks are one of my favorite animals, so this is a big thing for me. I also want to visit every state, and every continent, run a marathon, learn spanish, portuguese, german, and french, i have lots i want to do..none of them are very thrill seeking

i've never done sky diving or anything like that i have NO DESIRE. Let's see, I've swum with dolphins (discovery cove is AWESOME), i've worked with wolves, bears, and tigers, we go boating alot not that's very exciting (although i have had to dive down under the boat to untangle the propeller from a rope and that was NOT FUN, boat hit me on my head), i've gone deep sea fishing many times, i used to spend my summers on a fishing boat and a farm. I've done many dangerous things on horses (think circus tricks), and I've worked with many many different animals

I don't know, i guess the things i've done are not the most thrill seeking but they are exciting to me!
--------
The stomach aches are back, I went home from work early today I just couldn't stand it. Just feeling nauseous all the time. My boyfriend thinks it anxiety and im starting to agree with him so that's the next option to explore. He doesn't think im lactose intolerant because im still getting sick with no dairy, but i cant explain to him that i feel worse/different kind of stomach ache when i eat dairy.

i was worried his attitude might be transferring to his parents, which would worry me since we are going to disney with them and i dont want them to be like oh its fine your not actually lactose intolerant, but i guess they mentioned to him that if i needed the reservation numbers so i can call the restaurants they would give them to me. so that's good at least.

i'm getting quite frustrated and i think im just all out of whack. I was up a pound this week, which is my first gain so it was a little dissapointing, but its also that time of the month. I'm not really tracking anything cause like i said before my meals are so eradic. I have zero appetite. Mostly i'm just eating toast, very rarely have full meals.

So i will be calling the doctor tomorrow. I'm concerned i'm losing muscle mass, i feel more bony than i have ever been. (of course still not losing stomach fat!)

Just found out that big thunder mountain and test track will both be down during out trip! Those are two favorites of mine! How dissapointing!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend! Oh and thanks for all the study abroad advice! I've decided that if I can come up with the money, I will totally do it. It's too big of an opprotunity to not go through with it! I'm looking at London, even though the cost of living is ridiculous, but i will only be there a month

It sounds like you've done some extreme things. And, your bucket list is jammed packed. I think I'll write mine down. Maybe then I can start crossing things off.

Maybe your doctor will figure out what's going on. Have they checked for ulcers? I know someone who had stomach ulcers and it was very hard for them to eat anything.

I think we'll be at the world around the same time! We are arriving May 18. What about you?

I am moving back up to roller coasters - for some reason I got off of riding them. Plan to do the Hulk and Dueling Dragons at Universal this spring. Not quite to Rip Ride Rocket though! Planning some of the bigger ones at Busch Gardens Williamsburg when we go this summer as well.

Would also love to get courageous someday and try a zip line. I love speed, and it looks like so much fun, even though I am afraid of heights. The step off would be hellacious, but then I think I would really love it!

I used to ride motorcycles with old boyfriends, but DH thinks they are deathtraps. At my age, I think I would worry about zipping around without any protection on either side except a helmet, and the drivers here tend to be aggresive, so probably won't be doing it again, unless I get a big acreage someday I can run around on.

I don't think I can do the slingshot thing ever - just to intense. I have seen it in action. But Julie on the podcast did it, described it...aauugh!
My DS was into Bigfoot and Loch Ness Monster about that same age. Into Atlantis as well, around the time the cartoon came out. I think every kids wonders about that for awhile.

Normally I would fly to Germany, but my sister-in-law just had twins. I would love to go see her! We will see them, but not until this summer. Right now, my mom is there with them, helping out, as she did with me when I had DS. Kind of nice to have that sort of experience showing you the ropes!

Amen to that. We have been saving up for this Germany trip for awhile, but still have to fit in WDW to get our fix. Still want to take DS to Grand Canyon and Yellowstone, but airfares are through the roof.

My mom is supportive, but always asks, and I find it a bit trying to tell her I lost one pound this week, week after week. So I did it on my own this time and surprised her. She was a bit critical of people who are overweight, said a couple of hurtful things to me, possibly trying to motivate me. It had the opposite effect. I finally started countering her when she would criticize other people about weight, and she has stopped saying things liked that.

DH tries, but is not worried about his own weight - he likes to bring me candy and cookies when I am depressed...DS supports me in that he seems happy that I am slimmer. He walks with me when I aks him to as well, even though walking with mom is not his favorite thing. I tell him I need him for protection!

My best friend encourages me (she told me I looked nice in my swimsuit), but it is not on a regular basis. When I am discouraged, I come here and talk to everyone. And I a couple people at work if I need a quick fix, but these boards have been the best!


After we got back, it was so nice, I decided it was perfect for a walk. I had a free geocaching app, and a few to them were nearby, so I took DS with me - for protection, since I had my phone out - and we did a lot of searching. Did not find a darn thing, but we found where one should have been for sure. When I looked it up when I got back, found the other one needed maintenance and had been "muggled", so it probably wasn't even there. Found a few that may be easier, but will have to hit those another day. But it was an awesome walk on a beautiful day, and some time with my DS. I think I will probably do some more. I tell DS I need him to be with me, since iPhones are prime targets, so we hang out together and maybe I will find one of these things!

And got to update my weight loss ticker. Fell to 170 last week, and fell below this week, to 168.75! Plan to keep it there and heading further down! Was very happy to see that, since the day before I was heading for a gain!

Time to start dinner, running a little late but it is a quick fix. Hope everyone is doing well and staying OP!

Take care!

Carol

I think roller coasters are extreme. Some of them are just plain crazy! Have you ever been to Cedar Point in Ohio? They have some ridiculous coasters!

I think ziplining looks so much fun also. My sister just found a ziplining place in TX for when we go this summer, but DSs are too small to do it (weight wise). DH told me to go and he'd do something with the boys, so I think my sister, nephew (14), and I might do it!

Grand Canyon and Yellowstone are two places I want to go, also. I hear you about the airfare. The cheapest I can find from Cleveland (Pittsburgh is higher) to Austin with rental car for 4 people is looking like $1700. Good thing we have family to stay with!!

Sounds like you have a good support system! It's always important to have someone to turn to!

We haven't been geocaching for awhile. I get so frustrated when we know something is there but we just can't find it! One cache we found was a little silver tube about the size of a large pill that was hanging in a tree. Of course since we were directed at a tree, we were looking in the bark, holes, and branches, and ground. I have no idea how I saw this tiny thing hanging in that tree! There is one around here we have tried to find about 6 times and still haven't.

Great job on the loss!


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Well, I am back from my parties. I did splurge and had a tiny piece of cake. But, I had already put all the food into MFP since it was Panera, so I knew I'd go over a bit with the cake. I'm ok with that snce it had whipped cream frosting. I do not like sugar frosting. We also had fun talking with my grandma. I asked her if there is any place she wanted to visit and never got to. She said, "Yes, Hawaii." And she said my grandpa had always wanted to go to the Netherlands and never made it there. My grandma is well traveled and my grandpa had been in WW2 so he had traveled a lot also. I love talking about things like that with my grandma.



QOTD~my biggest supporter is DH. He encourages me to workout and even though he works hard and goes to school, I leave and workout while he's with our boys. I know some days he just wants to be alone and study, but he waits so I can run or go to the gym. He does not necessarily eat real healthy, but he's trying things I cook and doesn't snack in front of me at night (He's a huge snacker. He's been known to eat a bag of chips and a package of cookies in 2 days. Oh, and he never gains weight ). He also has offered to buy me things if I reach goals (like a new purse).

My mom is also a huge supporter. She watches my boys when DH isn't home so I can go to the gym. I try to support her, too, but it's just not working. It's actually very frustrating. She needs to lose A LOT of weight but just makes up excuses. I hope she realizes very soon that she needs to do something. But, enough about that!

I hope some of you don't have to work tomorrow! I know I don't, so we are going to DS's orthodontist appt then heading to Cleveland to the Lego Store. It's something DSs have wanted to do for awhile, so we are going tomorrow. So, I won't be on here much until later. I may also post the QOTD tonight.

Talk to you all in a bit!

Jill

 

[jillbur]

I am probably the least extreme person I know. The most 'extreme' thing I've done was ride Rockin' Rollercoaster and it took me four trips to get my nerves up to do it. I still haven't ridden Everest yet...

I'd fly to the Marriott Los Angeles Airport in California to catch the end of the Doctor Who convention going on right now so that I could meet one of the actual Doctors in person!

Both my parents have, but especially my DM who's been a major help in planning meals and picking out healthy snacks for me to try. And of course my Disney loving cousin. We're 11 years apart but we're best friends and she's been my personal cheerleader for this journey.

I'm not extreme either...I haven't even been on RnR since I never thought of going without DH and DSs (who are too little and too scared). Next trip, I'll do single rider if the boys don't want to go.

I have never seen Doctor Who (sorry), but I'm sure a convention would be fun!

Great support system!

 

[JacksLilWench]

Sunday QOTD

Today's movie is The Lion King

The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

I can't say I have a big big supporter. It's not that my friends and family DON'T support me, I just have a tendency to fly solo. I just like it that way But everyone I've told about my goals has been really supportive, so I guess I would have to say all my co-workers and my mom and friends

 

[belledreamer]

Not too much happened today. Did get some walking and exercise in today for HH. Also worked on some Doctor Who photo projects and got two finished so I'm happy happy!

Been tracking EVERY bit of food on MyFitnessPal and I just regret that I didn't do it sooner. Not only has it helped me make better food choices so that I don't go over calories but it saved me from an 853 calorie day yesterday. (Got to make sure I'm eating enough) Even had some room for a few Hershey Kisses today!

If you haven't joined MyFitnessPal, I highly recommend it.

Laundry tomorrow...joy... But on the other hand, in purchasing my gym membership I get a free consult this week with a rather nice looking personal trainer...

 

[Zoesmama03]

Thanks for the welcome backs and hellos everyone. I'll get rejoined soon but things have been a lot better here lately. For those that might remember I was having a lot of health problems back starting in June and they peaked while I tried going off all meds but my bp pill. Eventually we changed from an ACE to a beta blocker and I finally feel so much better now that all the other drugs are completely out of my system. My health has improved quite a bit my anxiety is mostly gone and I haven't had any bad panic attacks in a long time. A few times I've felt some shortness of breath a slight worry/panic but was able to easily and quickly calm down. So glad to see most of that behind me. I still occasionally get dizzy and lightheaded especially when out in certain lighting at stores. But the important part is it doesn't lead to panic attacks. I take my beta blocker, 4000 mg of fish oil(w 300mg of omega 3 per pill so guess that is 1200mg since I take 2 in morning with bp pill and 2 with evening bp pill.) In the evening I take a children's chewable vitamin it was on sale and my daughter and I share them, adult ones can make me sick(or I believe the iron in them does it). My Dr. and the NP I was seeing both ended up leaving the office. I got changed to a new Dr. in office but haven't met him. They scheduled me with a different NP who was sorta acting rude and all. She immediately ASSUMED I had diabetes was demanding blood work and only gave me one month refill on my bp meds saying I won't get a refill after without the blood work. They had been telling me it was fine. She says oh its high is should be 99 and it was 109. Sorry not going on meds for ONE lab being 10 pts high. Think I'm going to request the actual Dr they changed my primary to when I go in for lab results and a new refill on bp med. I may end up having to change to a new Dr's office. It was just insane she came in harping on the weight but she hasn't been doing my care the last 7 months through bp problems and the anxiety and panic attacks from drug reactions. I wanted to say she hasn't been seeing me all those months when I seriously thought my heart was failing. I did put on about 15 lbs with the new bp pill I can get it to drop but it flops right back. It's so frustrating.

We went out to Olive Garden tonight. It's been 2 years since I've been there. It was always my favorite. Food was good I ate too much. I'm gonna do some Michael Jackson dancing on Wii tomorrow with Zoe and my friends son who is turning 10 tomorrow. See if it will help on damage control from todays very horrible eating. I'm writing a routine on a calendar I printed out so I can get on track with exercising again.

She is doing great! She's become really at home here and loves to have several cuddles throughout the day (she really isn't a lap dog but try telling her that!).

Here she is in a chair she seems to have claimed....

If you think that is bad you should see my friends 100+ lb German Shepard/Doberman mixed breed dog. He thinks he's a lap dog and it can hurt when he presses elbows and paws with nails down in your skin. OUCH!

 

[D73]

QOTD Saturday

Today's movie is Peter Pan

You can fly, you can fly, you can fly! If you could fly off anywhere today, where would you go (other than Disney) and why?

BRAZIL.....definitely!!!!! That's where my partner has been posted and it was summer when we were last together. Some time together would be awesome....and this week is Carnaval as well.

Sunday QOTD

Today's movie is The Lion King

The Lion King is all about the importance of family and friends. Who in your family or group of friends is your biggest supporter in your weight loss journey? How have they supported you?

My work colleagues have been the strongest support. It is not always that way in a work situation but I am counting myself very lucky that words of encouragement as well as sharing recipes and fitness tipy has become a norm amongst my staff.

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Well I made it through the long week of Fiddler on the Roof productions at school. It went really well. Very pleased for the students but even more pleased that I can refocus on me for a bit.

The chocolate monster reared his ugly head at my house yesterday. But I have beat him away and am not going to let that slip get me down. A new day has dawned so I just put him ou of my mind and get back to my good foods and exercise plan.

I imagine many of you are off work today for President's Day. Enjoy the holiday if you have it. As for me, another normal day.

Make great choices Donalds!!

Christopher

 

[jillbur]

I can't say I have a big big supporter. It's not that my friends and family DON'T support me, I just have a tendency to fly solo. I just like it that way But everyone I've told about my goals has been really supportive, so I guess I would have to say all my co-workers and my mom and friends

That's great that you are your biggest supporter, plus you have family and friends!

But on the other hand, in purchasing my gym membership I get a free consult this week with a rather nice looking personal trainer...

Nice bonus!

Thanks for the welcome backs and hellos everyone. I'll get rejoined soon but things have been a lot better here lately. For those that might remember I was having a lot of health problems back starting in June and they peaked while I tried going off all meds but my bp pill. Eventually we changed from an ACE to a beta blocker and I finally feel so much better now that all the other drugs are completely out of my system. My health has improved quite a bit my anxiety is mostly gone and I haven't had any bad panic attacks in a long time. A few times I've felt some shortness of breath a slight worry/panic but was able to easily and quickly calm down. So glad to see most of that behind me. I still occasionally get dizzy and lightheaded especially when out in certain lighting at stores. But the important part is it doesn't lead to panic attacks. I take my beta blocker, 4000 mg of fish oil(w 300mg of omega 3 per pill so guess that is 1200mg since I take 2 in morning with bp pill and 2 with evening bp pill.) In the evening I take a children's chewable vitamin it was on sale and my daughter and I share them, adult ones can make me sick(or I believe the iron in them does it). My Dr. and the NP I was seeing both ended up leaving the office. I got changed to a new Dr. in office but haven't met him. They scheduled me with a different NP who was sorta acting rude and all. She immediately ASSUMED I had diabetes was demanding blood work and only gave me one month refill on my bp meds saying I won't get a refill after without the blood work. They had been telling me it was fine. She says oh its high is should be 99 and it was 109. Sorry not going on meds for ONE lab being 10 pts high. Think I'm going to request the actual Dr they changed my primary to when I go in for lab results and a new refill on bp med. I may end up having to change to a new Dr's office. It was just insane she came in harping on the weight but she hasn't been doing my care the last 7 months through bp problems and the anxiety and panic attacks from drug reactions. I wanted to say she hasn't been seeing me all those months when I seriously thought my heart was failing. I did put on about 15 lbs with the new bp pill I can get it to drop but it flops right back. It's so frustrating.

We went out to Olive Garden tonight. It's been 2 years since I've been there. It was always my favorite. Food was good I ate too much. I'm gonna do some Michael Jackson dancing on Wii tomorrow with Zoe and my friends son who is turning 10 tomorrow. See if it will help on damage control from todays very horrible eating. I'm writing a routine on a calendar I printed out so I can get on track with exercising again.

Sorry you are having health issues and it;s frustrating. Hopefully, they can clear it all up!

We don't go to Olive Garden much either. The closest one is about 20 minutes away and the last time we were there we were seating next to a man in a wife beater (tank top). My husband vowed never to go back. It really ruined the mood and we couldn't believe they let him in like that!

Sounds like you have a good plan to get in a routine!

BRAZIL.....definitely!!!!! That's where my partner has been posted and it was summer when we were last together. Some time together would be awesome....and this week is Carnaval as well.

My work colleagues have been the strongest support. It is not always that way in a work situation but I am counting myself very lucky that words of encouragement as well as sharing recipes and fitness tipy has become a norm amongst my staff.

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Well I made it through the long week of Fiddler on the Roof productions at school. It went really well. Very pleased for the students but even more pleased that I can refocus on me for a bit.

The chocolate monster reared his ugly head at my house yesterday. But I have beat him away and am not going to let that slip get me down. A new day has dawned so I just put him ou of my mind and get back to my good foods and exercise plan.

I imagine many of you are off work today for President's Day. Enjoy the holiday if you have it. As for me, another normal day.

Make great choices Donalds!!

Christopher

I'm sure Brazil would be awesome! And, it sounds like you have a good support system. I just want ed to add that maybe Richard Simmons is on your list

Glad that all went well with your production. I;m sure it'll free up lots of time for you and any stress will be lifted!


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Be back in a few with the QOTD!

Jill

 

[jillbur]

QOTD Monday

Today's movie is Beauty and the Beast

We all know Belle loved to read. What is the last health related book/article you read and can you share anything you learned?

 

[::Snow_White::]

QOTD Monday

Today's movie is Beauty and the Beast

We all know Belle loved to read. What is the last health related book/article you read and can you share anything you learned?

I usually read stuff throughout the day but in fitness last week we learned that during 18-20 years old, you get a specific number of fat cells. As in however many fat cells you have at that time in your life is what your stuck with and they shrink or expand when you gain or lose weight. This also means that the weight you are at that time is usually an average weight that your body will hang on to and it gets really hard to break through that wall. When you do break that wall it is much easier to gain weight back up to that point.

I thought that was interesting, and may be why some of us end up getting stuck somewhere?

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5 mile run yesterday was lame. Had to walk the last 1.5 because I couldn't run anymore. I think I'm going to strike my Saturday runs. I'll just stick with crosstraining on those days so I can have energy to run a long time on Sundays.

Food has been good, stressed about tests, I feel like I'm not getting enough sleep. Weekends are the only time when I don't have to get up early, but I still end up waking up around 7 when I'm still tired but can't fall back asleep.

Hope you all have a wonderful Monday!

 

[donac]

Good Monday morning everyone.


Happy President's Day.

I hope you are all having a relaxing day. Hopefully you have the day off.

I am getting ready to go grocery shopping then I have a couple of simple pairs of pants to sew. I have a costume meeting tonight.

I spent the day Saturday sewing a tent for the stage. I saw it up yesterday and it doesn't look bad. I am pretty surprised myself. Now on to final adjustments on costumes.

I hope to be back later with some replys.

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[pjlla]

My sil Beth and brother Jim are definitely my biggest supporters. She came to disney with me for my half marathon last year, and watched michael for me, and through the years we've shared our ups and downs with weight, weight watchere, and when there is a family party and we're on track, if they are there I know we'll have some healthy options. She and I have also shared our clothes as our weight has gone down, and unforutnately up, we've traded back and forth. We do a lot of travelling with them because my niece is the same age as ds, so we are very close. Love them.

Well, off to make some breakfast! Brocolli/cauliflour omelette anyone?

have a super sunday!!

Great to have family geographically close and emotionally close. You are so lucky.

I often eat broccoli for breakfast, but for some reason not cauliflower. How was it??

Pamela-Ugh, so sorry for all the drama with dd, and how sad and unfair to have that position on the team offered and then rescinded at the same time. I hope she wakes up and is feeling better about things, and will be able to get excited for her trip to CR. Hang in there, mama.

Thanks for the love for both of us!

Getting a bit frustrated. I have been bouncing around 166-167lbs for more then the past week! So discouraging. I haven't changed how much I am eating. I track with My Fitness Pal.
Any suggestions?

Shake things up!! Change up your food patterns (less carbs, more lean protein, more veggies), have low cal days followed by high cal days.... keep the metabolism guessing. Change up the exercise. Lean toward whatever you DON'T usually do.... if you usually run, try some weight training. If you weight train frequently, increase your cardio. Change up the cardio from walking to run/walk patterns..... or from walking flat to walking incline intervals. Or try a new machine like a stair stepper or treadclimber. Try something new all together like yoga or Zumba.

First, let me start by saying that you have a wonderful support group!

Yes I do.... and I consider myself very lucky.

Next, for DD. How stressful! I hope she can go to CR and relax and have fun. I'm sorry she is not getting to swim, but maybe it's a blessing in disguise? I hope she (and you) feel better today!

We ALL feel better today. Saturday morning she was still a mess.... but by yesterday she seemed to have pretty much resigned herself to the situation. And by last night she FINALLY seemed to be excited again about the trip.

That is so awesome that SIL came with you to the half marathon! She sounds like a great support and it sure helps that you can exchange clothes! It probably makes it a lot easier at family function, too. Sometimes, like my parties today, I feel like the only one caring that I don't want to shove a piece of cake down my throat. Glad you have people to share with!

It is great to have outside support, but sometimes you need to just be doing it FOR yourself and BY yourself. And when you need an "atta boy", please come here and share! We love to give pats on the back and high fives for success in avoiding things like birthday cake!

Well, I am off to my sister's house and then MILs. I will check in later!

Jill

Pamela--goodness, teenage drama is the worst. In their heads it truly is the end of the world. She might be really dramatic around you right up until she leaves, but my guess is once she is gone she will have a fabulous time.

I asked DS about this once--how everyone else can think he is the most laid back kid on the planet and how we saw the dramatic temper tantrums, etc. And he told me--cause I feel safe around you Mom. I can have a melt down and I know it's ok.

So, even though this has got to be killing you and your husband, it's awesome that she feels comfortable enough to "let it out" even though it may or may not be an appropriate reaction. DS was supposed to be "president" of the new youth group at our old church when he was in 8th grade. This was a huge deal, since he did not go to the church school. He adored the youth group leader. Just loved him.

So he interviewed for it, was accepted, and told them he could do any day of the week except one. And they knew that. They knew it when they offered him the position. And at the next meeting, in front of everyone they announced the meetings were going to be on the ONLY day of the week he could not be there. He was completely inconsolable. And what could we say to him--they treated him really poorly in my opinion.

I am not saying this is what your coach did--in this case it was just bad circumstances. But teens take that feeling of betrayal so personally. And they just can't think rationally sometimes. In the end I think Tom really learned something from the experience, and I don't think the leader realized how much it upset him. But I did write a letter and let them know. They had every right to change the dates. But I think people forget sometimes how hard it is to be a teenager, and how sensitive they are.

Hang in there. It's a bad situation to be in, but in the end I really believe she will enjoy her trip.

ETA--I just wanted to add, I am not trying to imply the coach did anything wrong in this case. It really was just bad circumstances, but that doesn't make it any less sad or stressful for your DD.

Thanks for sharing that. DH was pretty mad at the coach. I wasn't so much mad, just disappointed with her that she didn't think this through before speaking. But she probably doesn't realize what a big deal this was to DD. Who knows.

DD has said similar things to me about being able to "let go" with me because she knows, no matter what, I will still be there, loving her. I can't imagine how hard it was to hold in the tears in this particular situation. She finished practice, rode home in the carpool WITH THE GIRL WHO GOT THE RELAY SPOT (who is a GREAT friend and really seemed to understand how DD was feeling).... then got picked up by DH for the remainder of the ride.... and didn't break down until she was in her room! DH didn't even know anything was wrong! I think she was really waiting for the safety of home and Mom to have her meltdown.

Anyhow, Saturday she was still a mess and didn't have great swims at the meet, so that added insult to injury. Yesterday was definitely better though... THANK HEAVENS! And she did a few good swims that pretty much matched some PB times... so that helped.

Today she seems ready to be excited about the trip.... talking about seeing monkeys and sleeping on the plane, etc. Life seems okay again. I'm not a high stress person, but this was literally making me sick to my stomach. I went from not wanting to eat at ALL on Friday night, to having a mini mixed nuts and M&M binge last night. Mad at myself for that, of course, but moving on.

Thanks for the hug.

Thanks! I'm thinking it's the extra miles I had this week so I burned more calories. Also, my mom and I had a long talk about health (we butt heads when it comes to fitness and diet).My mom said she thought I ate too many carbs and that's why I'm not really losing anything (which is probably true) so I went crazy trying new vegetables and cooking them so it's been quite a shift in my diet.


That is great. I wouldn't worry too much about carbs, unless they are the bad carbs.... like white flour, white sugar, etc. Those should be eliminated for many reasons in addition to weight loss.

Shifting to a lower carb diet can definitely kick start a weight loss though! Did you find any new favorites in the veggies you tried??


I am my biggest supporter. My mom buys me a lot of vegetarian food and is glad I'm doing the half-marathon but day to day, it is more of myself pushing myself. My best friend is a vegetarian and might be doing the half-marathon too, but she lives in the dorms at her university so we aren't really there to push each other. Then of course, everyone here!!

You SHOULD be your biggest supporter! No one can do this for you. Outside support is GREAT and even CRUCIAL.... but you need to be your own number 1 cheerleader!

Your daughter sounds sooo sweet! That's nice of her!

Sorry to hear about your daughter. Life isn't fair sometimes, I hope she feels better today and everything gets sorted out!

Thankfully things are looking up today!

Thanks! Mmm. I love broccoli! Cauliflower, not so much, but I'm sure it's still delicious.

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Woke up really tired today and felt sick for awhile but feeling better. Got 2.5 miles in yesterday in 36:22. Felt pretty good, hoping that it doesn't hold me back from my 5 mile run today. Friday I didn't really feel like exercising, but then didn't have anything else to do so I put on my nikes and did some wii boxing. Of course, after a few minutes I was all pumped up and ended up doing a 10 minute solution: boxing segment and then a 10 minute solution: pilates segment after my wii boxing. Dang, I definitely felt the burn after pilates!

Have to do a lot of cleaning, 2 tests this week, and an interview for an honor society. This week is going to be crazy + my running and exercise. I guess I will survive! Finally in the double digits for our WDW trip though!!

Hope you all have a wonderful and healthy Sunday!!

Isn't it amazing how once you START exercising you usually want to keep going?? I did that on Saturday. I had totally talked myself into skipping my workout. But I made myself lace up my Aasics and hit the TM. I told myself I only had to walk for 10 minutes and then I could quit. But I ended up doing 30+ minutes with sprint intervals! Once I'm moving, I can usually keep going.

WOOHOO on the double digit dance!

The stomach aches are back, I went home from work early today I just couldn't stand it. Just feeling nauseous all the time. My boyfriend thinks it anxiety and im starting to agree with him so that's the next option to explore. He doesn't think im lactose intolerant because im still getting sick with no dairy, but i cant explain to him that i feel worse/different kind of stomach ache when i eat dairy.

i was worried his attitude might be transferring to his parents, which would worry me since we are going to disney with them and i dont want them to be like oh its fine your not actually lactose intolerant, but i guess they mentioned to him that if i needed the reservation numbers so i can call the restaurants they would give them to me. so that's good at least.

i'm getting quite frustrated and i think im just all out of whack. I was up a pound this week, which is my first gain so it was a little dissapointing, but its also that time of the month. I'm not really tracking anything cause like i said before my meals are so eradic. I have zero appetite. Mostly i'm just eating toast, very rarely have full meals.

So i will be calling the doctor tomorrow. I'm concerned i'm losing muscle mass, i feel more bony than i have ever been. (of course still not losing stomach fat!)

Just found out that big thunder mountain and test track will both be down during out trip! Those are two favorites of mine! How dissapointing!

Hope everyone is having a good weekend! Oh and thanks for all the study abroad advice! I've decided that if I can come up with the money, I will totally do it. It's too big of an opprotunity to not go through with it! I'm looking at London, even though the cost of living is ridiculous, but i will only be there a month

First of all.... prayers that you feel better soon and that they figure out this problem.

Second.... sorry about the rides being down. That is always a concern when we plan a trip.

Third..... I"m sure you will find a way to make London happen! It would be an amazing opportunity!

DH is my greatest supporter, and I know how lucky I am to have him. He works out with me when I want a partner, and he cooks the healthy meals that I plan. Plus he's also been making my post-workout breakfast for me so that I have time to go work out, come home and shower, and then get to work on time!

You are very lucky!!!

That's such a bummer for your family. High School is full of so many ups and downs, I'd never want to go back to that time! Will your DD have another opportunity to be on the team? I hope you all end up having a great vacation despite the swimming disappointment.

Actually, it is a school trip just for her. We will just stay home and be envious!

She will hopefully be at Age Groups next year (her senior year.... last chance). And there is a small chance that she could be asked to be on a relay team to go to Nationals this coming summer. So it wasn't the end-all and be-all.... just an enormous disappointment.

I had a very busy Saturday, but found time both yesterday and today to get some cardio in! It was my personal goal this week to fit some in every day so I'm really happy about that! Tomorrow our office starts our "Biggest Loser" challenge so I bought lots of healthy foods (we are preparing salads for the week - mushrooms, tomatoes, quinoa, and lettuce) and feel ready to go!

I also had a friend point out that MyFitnessPal is even more successful if you have friends - so if anyone is looking to add people please add me! "Leitadala" !

Have a great Sunday night!

Good job getting the cardio in. And you sound well prepared for a succesful week!!

OK, that picture of your chili was wonderful...I will have to make it, based on that alone! And I am not a huge chili fan! I think DH will love it though...

It really isn't much like regular chili. The sauce is creamy and a bit cheesey... and can be as spicy and mild as you like, depending on the salsa and such that you use. I love the crunch of the celery and the creaminess of the chick peas.

I haven't taken pictures, don't have anything available. You have seen the African Meatloaf, nasty looking, but good. My Curry Chicken salad is also wonderful, but kind of boring looking.

DD and I both loved the African meatloaf, but it was a bit of a mess. It never really held together in "loaf" form. In fact, if/when I make it again, I may just skip that step.... I'll finish it up before the "pack it in a loaf pan" step and serve it loose over egg noodles or potatoes or brown rice or couscous. Actually, I had the leftovers on Saturday over a serving of mashed cauliflower and it was DELICIOUS!! It is all gone now. DD and I were tussling over the last of it for lunch yesterday!


Need to look for shorts for our April trip as well! Will need to hit the mall in a marathon trip maybe two weeks before we leave, since I want to give myself as much time as possible before I buy. Still hoping to reach that magic number 160 before we leave.
I have not worn shorts in forever. I have always hated my legs - they were too fat, and since I have dark hair, they never looked as nice as I would have liked even when just shaved. So I always wore pants, light-wight if needed.
Last summer my friend talked me into a water park - I needed to get a swimsuit. I screwed up my nerve, and bought a nice modest suit and honestly, it was not that bad - and no one looked twice. It'll be the same at Disney, no one will care that I am wearing shorts - there will be better and worse on either side of me.


I felt that way about capri pants for YEARS! I just refused to wear them.... I felt like they made my calves and ankles look fat. But once I got past that and started wearing them, I love them! Such a nice alternative to long pants in the spring. And you are RIGHT! NO ONE ELSE IS LOOKING! Wear what makes YOU comfortable and the heck with the rest!

I will be hitting the mall tonight in a last ditch effort to find shorts for her, but we did unearth about 8 pairs that fit and look okay (some mine, some hers). I was going to go after my run today, but she is going to swim tonight to get in a last practice before she leaves for CR, so I will be dropping her and then will run to the mall after that. No sense in making two trips into town today. Fingers crossed that Old Navy has shorts.... we both love their stuff and I know exactly what size she will wear.

I hate folding whites, I can handle the others. DS folds the whites. Except for my underwear - he will just put that in a pile . I think it embarrasses him...

Sadly, the socks are still in the basket!! I did everything else except pair up the socks. And of course, by now, I've done ANOTHER white load.... so I need to suck it up and deal with it today!!

My mom is supportive, but always asks, and I find it a bit trying to tell her I lost one pound this week, week after week. So I did it on my own this time and surprised her. She was a bit critical of people who are overweight, said a couple of hurtful things to me, possibly trying to motivate me. It had the opposite effect. I finally started countering her when she would criticize other people about weight, and she has stopped saying things liked that.

DH tries, but is not worried about his own weight - he likes to bring me candy and cookies when I am depressed...DS supports me in that he seems happy that I am slimmer. He walks with me when I aks him to as well, even though walking with mom is not his favorite thing. I tell him I need him for protection!

My best friend encourages me (she told me I looked nice in my swimsuit), but it is not on a regular basis. When I am discouraged, I come here and talk to everyone. And I a couple people at work if I need a quick fix, but these boards have been the best!

Nice to have encouragement around when you need it. But tough when loved ones near you just don't always get it. But I agree... these boards are the BEST!!

Poor dear, and you and your husband. The teen years don't always encourage logical thinking. She was probably holding it in all through the match and at that point was too keyed up and emotional to realize she still wouldn't be able to swim at this point. I hope after a good night's sleep she will understand better. I think once she gets past this disappointment she will love the trip - there will be so much to distract her there!

I agree with the distractions. I'm sure that the disappointment will linger down deep, but I think that seeing volcanoes, horseback riding on the beach, and swimming in the Pacific ocean will definitely keep her mind off it!

****************************************************
Had a fun day yesterday. DS and myself went bowling with my best friend and her DD. She and I did not bowl, we both have carpal tunnel issues, so I don't do stuff like that to make my arm hurt. They had fun and we did the last of our planning. Universal if so different from Disney - we are staying at the HRH, have FOTL access and early entry to WWoHP - we do not really need to plan, except for our two Disney days.

Tempted to offer to take DS to Universal for Mother/Son weekend this year. I think he'd love to see WWOHP. But I don't know how I would handle being that close to Disney and NOT visiting.

I managed to keep it down too one slice of medium cheese pizza. They had funnel cakes as well, and I looked it up before I went, thought it was 13 - when I got back realized 1/2 cake was 13 . I did not like it much (not well made), so only ate 1/3, but still...I had only been planning to eat 1/2 when I thought it would only be 6 or 7. Oh well, good thing I did not like it as much.

So frustrating.

After we got back, it was so nice, I decided it was perfect for a walk. I had a free geocaching app, and a few to them were nearby, so I took DS with me - for protection, since I had my phone out - and we did a lot of searching. Did not find a darn thing, but we found where one should have been for sure. When I looked it up when I got back, found the other one needed maintenance and had been "muggled", so it probably wasn't even there. Found a few that may be easier, but will have to hit those another day. But it was an awesome walk on a beautiful day, and some time with my DS. I think I will probably do some more. I tell DS I need him to be with me, since iPhones are prime targets, so we hang out together and maybe I will find one of these things!

Waiting for the promised snow, but it appears to be too far south, so we probably won't get much. Bummer. I figure our limit is mid-March, and after that I need to wait until next year...

And got to update my weight loss ticker. Fell to 170 last week, and fell below this week, to 168.75! Plan to keep it there and heading further down! Was very happy to see that, since the day before I was heading for a gain!

Time to start dinner, running a little late but it is a quick fix. Hope everyone is doing well and staying OP!

Take care!

Carol

Great job on hitting that new decade on the scale!

Thanks for the welcome backs and hellos everyone. I'll get rejoined soon but things have been a lot better here lately. For those that might remember I was having a lot of health problems back starting in June and they peaked while I tried going off all meds but my bp pill. Eventually we changed from an ACE to a beta blocker and I finally feel so much better now that all the other drugs are completely out of my system. My health has improved quite a bit my anxiety is mostly gone and I haven't had any bad panic attacks in a long time. A few times I've felt some shortness of breath a slight worry/panic but was able to easily and quickly calm down. So glad to see most of that behind me. I still occasionally get dizzy and lightheaded especially when out in certain lighting at stores. But the important part is it doesn't lead to panic attacks. I take my beta blocker, 4000 mg of fish oil(w 300mg of omega 3 per pill so guess that is 1200mg since I take 2 in morning with bp pill and 2 with evening bp pill.) In the evening I take a children's chewable vitamin it was on sale and my daughter and I share them, adult ones can make me sick(or I believe the iron in them does it). My Dr. and the NP I was seeing both ended up leaving the office. I got changed to a new Dr. in office but haven't met him. They scheduled me with a different NP who was sorta acting rude and all. She immediately ASSUMED I had diabetes was demanding blood work and only gave me one month refill on my bp meds saying I won't get a refill after without the blood work. They had been telling me it was fine. She says oh its high is should be 99 and it was 109. Sorry not going on meds for ONE lab being 10 pts high. Think I'm going to request the actual Dr they changed my primary to when I go in for lab results and a new refill on bp med. I may end up having to change to a new Dr's office. It was just insane she came in harping on the weight but she hasn't been doing my care the last 7 months through bp problems and the anxiety and panic attacks from drug reactions. I wanted to say she hasn't been seeing me all those months when I seriously thought my heart was failing. I did put on about 15 lbs with the new bp pill I can get it to drop but it flops right back. It's so frustrating.

Glad you are back to visit us, but sorry you are struggling with your health. HOpefully you can get a new PCP and things will get straightened out quickly.

If you think that is bad you should see my friends 100+ lb German Shepard/Doberman mixed breed dog. He thinks he's a lap dog and it can hurt when he presses elbows and paws with nails down in your skin. OUCH!

QOTD Monday

Today's movie is Beauty and the Beast

We all know Belle loved to read. What is the last health related book/article you read and can you share anything you learned?

I try to read at least a LITTLE BIT about health, fitness, healthy eating, weight loss... every day. Right now I am re-reading the "Flat Belly Diet" book and a WW Success Stories book. I will probably be ready to pass them on once I am done re-reading.

I have found that surrounding myself with health-related "stuff" keeps me in the right mindset on a daily basis. I watch lots of weight loss stuff on television (My Big Fat Weight Loss Journey, Fat Chef, Biggest Loser, Ruby, My 600 lb Life). I read lots of articles in magazines about weight loss, exercise, healthy eating. I get Fitness magazine, Nutrition Action Newsletter, and Weight Watchers magazine at home. I pick up Cooking Light and Prevention at the library pretty regularly. I don't always find that I am learning something NEW, but it just keeps my mind on the right track.

What could I share right now??? I think I will say, that as you continue on this journey, you will almost definitely get to a point in time where it is as much about HEALTH as it is about looking good. And you will learn to eat to FUEL your body properly, rather than always eating just what tastes good.

I will be the first to admit that when I re-started this journey it was SOLELY about looking good. I had no health issues outside of being terribly out of shape. No high bp, no heart issues, no fertility issues, nada. I was sick and tired of being FAT! And my food journals for the first few years of this journey will definitely show that I was eating whatever I could fit into my plan that tasted GOOD! Too much processed junk, too many WW "treats", too many white carbs. Always plenty of veggies and fruit, but too much crap.

But as I have progressed along my way on this trip, I have grown much more interested in FUELING my body in a HEALTHY way! Now I may think much more about what my body NEEDS for fuel (am I running today? Weight lifting? Should I increase my protein? Do I need more calcium today?) rather than just what I am CRAVING to eat.

I usually read stuff throughout the day but in fitness last week we learned that during 18-20 years old, you get a specific number of fat cells. As in however many fat cells you have at that time in your life is what your stuck with and they shrink or expand when you gain or lose weight. This also means that the weight you are at that time is usually an average weight that your body will hang on to and it gets really hard to break through that wall. When you do break that wall it is much easier to gain weight back up to that point.

I thought that was interesting, and may be why some of us end up getting stuck somewhere?

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5 mile run yesterday was lame. Had to walk the last 1.5 because I couldn't run anymore. I think I'm going to strike my Saturday runs. I'll just stick with crosstraining on those days so I can have energy to run a long time on Sundays.

Food has been good, stressed about tests, I feel like I'm not getting enough sleep. Weekends are the only time when I don't have to get up early, but I still end up waking up around 7 when I'm still tired but can't fall back asleep.

Hope you all have a wonderful Monday!

I think that you are being hard on yourself about Saturday's run. I think that running 3.5 and walking the last 1.5 is nothing to sneeze at!

Lack of good sleep will make your stress worse! Try to get some more rest!

Good Monday morning everyone.


Happy President's Day.

I hope you are all having a relaxing day. Hopefully you have the day off.

I am getting ready to go grocery shopping then I have a couple of simple pairs of pants to sew. I have a costume meeting tonight.

I spent the day Saturday sewing a tent for the stage. I saw it up yesterday and it doesn't look bad. I am pretty surprised myself. Now on to final adjustments on costumes.

I hope to be back later with some replys.

Have a happy and healthy day.

I am presuming you have the day off. No day off around here, as we have school vacation next week. Glad that the tent came out well. How many helpers showed up??

************

Good Monday morning! As I mentioned above, DD's mood and attitude are much improved now. SHe is still nursing a huge disappointment, of course, but seems to be excited again about her trip.

I have a busy day brewing here and it is already 10 am and I haven't hardly started it! Laundry, housework, TM time, bed-making, and cooking are on my list today.... along with packing for DD! She has done NOTHING! Part of me says "let her deal with it".... but I know I will be stressing if she forgets stuff.... so for my own piece of mind I will be doing a BIG amount of her packing today.

Off to make beds and hit the TM!.................P

 

[DisNorth]

Hello! I’m new to team Donald. I look forward to ‘meeting’ you all as we lose! I have quite a few pages to catch up on but wanted to say hi first.

My name's Tracy and I’m 29 years old. I have been over weight all my life. I have a lot to lose, about 140 lbs! So I hope this challenge will help me stay on track.

QOTD Monday

Today's movie is Beauty and the Beast

We all know Belle loved to read. What is the last health related book/article you read and can you share anything you learned?

Beauty and the Beast is my favorite!

I've been reading Jeff Galloway's website, thinking I might order his book. I'm trying to get into running. This week will be my first week of his 5K plan. It's a 15 week plan, which works out great because in about 17 weeks is our local 5k that I hope to run in. After that I hope to move on to the half marathon plan. I want to run the Tinkerbelle half in Jan 2013!

 

[JacksLilWench]

QOTD Monday

Today's movie is Beauty and the Beast

We all know Belle loved to read. What is the last health related book/article you read and can you share anything you learned?

I read a really interesting article lately. A study was done about weight loss recently, and it blew my mind- the study had two groups. Both groups were restricted to the same amount of calories and physical activity a day, but the variable group was told to eat dessert with a healthy breakfast (ie, egg whites and toast with a piece of fruit, and then a brownie) The control group was given just a typical b/l/d meal plan. The variable group (over a 32-week period) lost 40LBS more than the control group AND kept it off!!! The researchers came to three conclusions about all this craziness:
1) Eating something sweet and sugary that early in the day spikes your metabolism,
2) It works because you have all day to burn off whatever sweet treat you just ate,
3) And it takes care of your sugar craving for the day.

I tried it last week for a few days and I swear it works. I would have a healthy breakfast (scrambled egg, whole wheat English muffin, coffee, piece of fruit, and a Pop-Tart) and I didn't want sugar for the rest of the day! I will totally be trying it again this week, and letting you all know what the results are. My current weight is 184, and I want to be at 182.75 next time I weigh in.

Hello! I’m new to team Donald. I look forward to ‘meeting’ you all as we lose! I have quite a few pages to catch up on but wanted to say hi first.

Welcome Tracey!