Team Donald – Biggest Loser “No Excuses” 2012 Challenge

[ougrad86]

I Read them all too, but it is HARD to reply to everyone. I am really in awe of those that do! It really is so thoughtful. I'm just not great at keeping up with it all. So you are not alone.

I wish I could do so too. I am in awe of people that can do that and keep it all straight. I pull up a few here and there...but I always read through every post.

for us over 50 ladies I know there is me, you, Dona and Janis - anybody else? Awesome job losing 90 pounds It is not easy at this stage of life. To all you younger ladies, I strongly encourage you to take the weight off now. The older you get, it gets VERY difficult to lose.
That doesn't mean you can't do it though

Count me in! I'm 53, and yes, it is WAY harder than when I was younger. And I wonder why I didn't keep it up! I was in the AF and could run a 6 minute mile!

Alright team...I am not going to take time to respond to everyone today but I have read along. It was a stressful sort of day and most of the stress was self induced. Here is the summary:

I got up this morning and weighed myself. I had GAINED .5 pounds.

Now, I know that this can happen but I have been getting my exercise in EVERY day, making some food slips but still staying in my range of what I am allowed to have and drinking water until I feel like I should just stay in the bathroom!

This leads to me sitting on the edge of the tub and swearing off this stupid idea that I am ready to lose weight again.

Yes, I feel like lately I am prone to this attitude. I know it is because I am not happy with how I look. I know I need to change my mental state of mind.

I get myself to school (after drinking 60 ounces of water before I even leave the house....can I tell you that I barely made it to the bathroom at work???). Once there, someone offers me chocolate which I PROMPTLY EAT! This leads to more self loathing.

Do we see a trend? I can stand back and reflect on it and see how crazy my mentality is right now but honestly in the moment...

By lunch (and several more 16-ounce cups of water), I have decided I am done with this and it is not worth it.

Can drinking too much water drive a person crazy?

I spend part of my afternoon prep storming through the hallways claiming that I am not exercising that I am simply delivering things around the school that need to be taken care of. I leave work early so that I can run with DH tonight since it is warm.

Once home, I have a total attitude as I get dressed. I yell at DH that it is too cold to run outside and stick my tongue out at him. Yes, I really did that. We went out to do our 3 mile run and I literally chew him out about how I hate running and that I am going to quit and how this is my last run ever and if I slip on the ice and die it is all his fault.

It was in the high 30°s outside - totally not cold. I swear DH wants to make me pack up and leave after my mood today. I am not even sure what is wrong with me today and why I am so angry at this point.

When I got to the walking part of our exercise today, I wouldn't even talk to DH. I was so angry that I had to work this hard to see no results. I have already done the work. I already lost the weight. I kept the weight off for over a year. Then I was angry because I knew that I had let the weight come back on and I had no one to blame but myself and angry that I have to do the work all over again.

Basically, I am now looking back on this and thinking that I have gotten so much lazier since when I started this 2 years ago and think I have to figure out how to find the motivation I had when I started.

So, finally we get home and I whip off all my running gear because first I am sweaty because I wore too much thinking I would freeze and then also because I have gained 20 pounds and now feel like I look like a rolly polly runner. So then I throw on baggy clothing to hide the body that I am loathing. I eat the stupid within my points range dinner. I skip the fresh baked chocolate cookies with milk that the rest of the family had for dinner. I calculated the last of the water, the food and all the stupid exercising I did today. I am now sitting here in self pity and feel that typing this all out to my team is my therapy for the day.

So there you all have it. And yes, I am going to be your coach next week! I certainly hope that I figure it all out before then!

I am sending out positive vibes to all of you tonight. Yeah to everyone who is having success. Hugs to everyone who is still struggling. May we all survive this journey together!

Jen

Oh my gosh, I have had days like that. Hang in there and glad you could come here and vent. Get a good nights sleep, take a deep breath and start all over again . You can do it!

2. For the elastic in my socks to not leave indentations in my skin

I completely forgot to mention the stupid indentations - I hate those!

Carol - Hope you're feeling better soon! What are you planning to buy for healthy eating?

Made it to the store, lots of fruits and veges and some chicken and pita bread. Going to start eating some sandwiches instead of soup everyday; read an article about BHT the other day, got me a little worried. So I have lunches down, now need to start planning some healthy dinners! And maybe will try my hand at home made soup...

QOTD, Thursday, January 5, 2012 - What is your Anchor????

My anchor would be my DS. I want to be healthy for me, but because of him. I want to watch him grow up, maybe someday get married and have babies - and be healthy enough to take my grandkids to WDW! I have a secondary anchor as well - I remember how good it felt to be slim!

My DH is not quite an anchor - he likes to get me candy when I get depressed, and can't quite get it that it won't cheer me up! He needs to lose weight as well, I'm afraid he won't be around much longer if he doesn't, but it isn't something you can force on someone...

I hope that I can get my wedding ring back on. Before I had surgery, I was told I had to remove my wedding ring, but my ring was sized the skinny me. I did get it off after a ton of work, but I haven't put it back on since the summer. I can't wait to wear my wedding ring and be able to get it off anytime I want. It feel weird to not wear my ring, but it was horrible trying to get a size 6 ring off a size 9 finger.

Can't wait to weigh in tomorrow. Do most of you weigh in when you first get up, mid day or something else? I don't know when is the best time to weigh yourself.

You can get that ring back on. It will take time, but I finally got mine back on. They had to force mine off - they wrapped string around my finger, looped it around the ring, and then slowly unwrapped the string as they forced it up - more painful than recovering from the surgery afterwards! I refused to put it on after that until I lost weight, and a few years later it fit (it took me a couple years to actually start dieting)! I can even take it off and put it back on now, which is awesome. And I can wear my old class ring from college too .

I weigh myself in the morning. I tend to weigh less first thing.

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

Managed to get up on time this morning, got to work on time and did lunch in front of the computer coming up with different sandwich ideas. Saw some stuff on Cooking Light, but when I calculated the points I was shocked! I guess I will need to be a little creative with those recipies, and adjust them just a little. But I love pita sandwiches, got some chicken and tuna and eggs and am going to try various fixings. I'll pack them separate, then put them together at lunch so as not to have a soggy mess.

My coworker and I talked about possibly taking walks outside on nice days - that'll get me about 15-30 minutes on days when I'm pressed for time at home ; I just hope she likes to walk as fast as me, I try to get a workout out of it, not just a nice stroll!

Got caught in a traffic jam on the way home after the store. I had run through and then went to pick up DS. He called, I was still only half way home. Luckily the school stays open, so he found a place to do some homework until I got there.

Tomorrow is free lunch Friday at work, and they have chili and fixin's, but also have salad and such, so I may have a little bit of chili and lots of salad - this place has catered us before, they usually have a real nice salad. And a nice roll, without butter, is only 3 points. So I can try out some of my sandwiches this weekend, see what I like.

Weigh in is tomorrow, haven't been very good this week although kept up on water some, relaxed everyday and did a little exercise. Start fresh tomorrow though, and open up my WW again as well! Just realized I have a company party to go to in 2 weeks, and need to lose a little bit to slide into my dress...although I do have Spanx!

Carol

 

[quasar4legs]

Hi All

I am enjoying reading what everyone is doing.

Just wanted to do a quick post............ mainly to keep myself accountable if that makes sense

I've been back on the exercise bike everyday and it is going well and my physiotherapist is also very pleased with my progress. At the moment I'm doing 16 mins but we are looking at increasing that in the next few weeks

I've also been doing my hour of Pilates everyday and have started meditating which I am finding very difficult.

Breakfast: Fruit
Lunch: Big green salad with chick peas
Dinner: Lentil/spinach curry with brown rice, steamed broccoli and cauliflower

Hugs, health and happiness to everyone

Quasar

 

[JacksLilWench]

This thread gets away from me way too quick! I'll have to start checking a few more times a day, haha.

And here I am this past May... nearly 9 years to the day, since I am realizing that both of these photos were taken on Mother's Day weekend. This is 90 pounds down from the before photo (possibly even more).

Oh.... that prettier and younger version of me in both pictures??.... that is my beautiful daughter! ......................P

You look amazing, Pamela!!!

QOTD - Wednesday January 4, 2012 - Are there any road blocks in your journey to better health?? These road blocks could be people, events, etc. How are you going to deal with these road blocks??
Janis

GO TEAM DONALD!!!!​

The biggest one is actually a blessing in disguise...

I am part of a huge MeetUp group in Charlotte NC, that has really been awesome. I've made some really good friends and had some amazing opportunities to do stuff I wouldn't normally do. The only issue is where we meet up a lot of the time is at bars and restaurants where there aren't a lot of low-fat options, and there is a LOT of alcohol flowing usually. So I will just have to get better at saying "No Thank You" and enjoying the crap out of my salad

Just wanted to remind everyone about the WIN Challenge. It's not too late to join. See the link below for directions. We have (so far) 70 Team Donald members. Of that only 16 have sent in their WIN numbers. Come On - grab those tape measures and get busy!!!!

http://www.disboards.com/showpost.php?p=43587570&postcount=44


Janis

I have to find my tape measure!

Wow its a late night tonight. My best friend in the entire world was home this week from tennesse so we all went out tonight and it was 12:30 in the morning! We had a lot of fun though! My boyfriend and I don't get to do grownup things very often cause he's two years younger than me and his friends dont do much, so it was great to go out. i was good too, I had half a bison burger, sweet potato fries, and just one beer.

I went to see the stomach doctor and im not really sure how i feel about that. I guess im cutting out dairy which is gonna be tough, but its just to test for the next three weeks if im going to feel better. I also have to have a colonoscopy/endoscopy in feb which im so not cool with but if they can figure out whats wrong with me thats cool i guess. i think they are going to test for celieac as well

Trina, I watch endo cases all the time! I actually tech in the department a few times a week. If I can help at all, let me know! I'd be glad to!

Today is my last day for being your Coach and with that I leave you with - my questions of the day have been from memories I have of what I learned many years ago at WW meetings. I have been reading, trying to find some inspiration and I found anchoring - and I remembered it was one of my favorites.

From the WW site: Whether you have 15 or 100 pounds to lose, weight loss requires patience and perseverance. Developing the skills to lose weight and keep it off takes time. While you may sometimes feel frustrated by the fact that your losses are small and the process is slow, remember that you're learning healthy tips for life, tips that you can continue to fine-tune and improve upon.

Anchoring can help you to keep your positive goals in mind when you encounter a challenge. Your anchor can be an object or a memory of a time when you felt strong and confident.

The next time you find yourself frustrated with slow weight loss, bring out your anchor and reflect on how you will look and feel at your weight goal. Use it to move past your dissatisfaction and to focus on your improved health and slimmer figure.

When sticking to the plan is tough, that's when you need Anchoring, a process for creating cues and triggers to remind yourself of your weight goal and the inner resources you have to achieve it.

You use Anchoring every day. When you hear a song that makes you smile because you associate it with a certain memory, that's an anchor to that memory.

Anchoring can help you achieve your goal by reminding you of a particular inner resource you may need to connect to when you're having a hard time

QOTD, Thursday, January 5, 2012 - What is your Anchor????

You are an awesome coach, Janis!!

My anchor is a mental picture of me at the finish line of the Tower of Terror 10mi. race in September. I want to go in costume, but I don't know what kind of costume yet. I don't want to be first across the finish line, I just don't want to be last

Off to work for a busy 12 hour day.....I would say my anchor is my family especially my 2 little ones. I want to be around for as long as I can to see them grow and prosper. Here's my cheerleader (she has been a great motivator so far in getting me exercising) and my little piglet (at 1 year old this girl can really eat).

How cute!!!

 

[cclovesdis]

Healthy Habits Week 2: Spaceship Earth

I don’t remember when I actually believed that there is a ride inside the giant silver ball in Epcot, but it’s a good thing I did because I can’t get enough of this attraction! I love the new additions and seeing “my future.” This week, our Healthy Habits focus on “your future.”

This week’s 4 Habits are:

1. It may seem unbelievable when you have to drink 64 oz. of it, but our “ancestors” drank water too. To help you with “your future, your “habit” is to drink a total of 64 oz. of water during the day. You can count up to 8 oz. of tea or coffee toward your total for the day.

2. Our “ancestors” were really big into record-keeping according to the narrator of Spaceship Earth. Recording what one eats and portion control are huge in weight loss and valuable habits to have. Again, this week, write down everything you eat as well as the portion size. (Example: ½ cup of plain uncooked oatmeal, cooked in ½ cup of nonfat milk, with 1 tablespoon of walnuts and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar)

3. As you journey through time, you will need strength and energy. I’ve found that the more I exercise, the more energy I have. This week, your “habit” is to exercise for a total of 20 minutes each day.

The above 3 Habits are the same as last week because you need time for something to become a habit, according to the research.
4. In “your future” you will need your teeth. Dental health is also very important. Floss your teeth daily.

Mini-Challenges

1. “Your Future:” Last we, we “recorded” our goals for the challenge. This week, ”record” up to 3 changes you hope to see in yourself at the end of the challenge.

2. The Libraries of the Middle East: Information about weight loss, eating healthy, fitness, etc. is available almost everyone. Spend some time reading information related to the goals you wrote last week.

Note: This week is from Friday, 1/6 to Thursday, 1/12 so the total possible points one can earn is now 30.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Hi everyone. Sorry I have been MIA today. It was very hectic at the office. I actually had to work.

No time for replies but I did read most of the past few pages from last night and today.

for those of you having a hard time getting started or coming to terms with having to do over the weight loss. I so know how you feel. I too have to relose 30lbs. I think for me I had to finally just come to terms with it and now I am moving on. For months I would start out the day healthy only to throw in the towel by lunch time because I would sulk about how I was at a healthier weight and running miles and miles and now I am back to square one. Well we all know where sulking gets us....NO WHERE! So I think part is just wiping the slate clean and starting to look ahead instead of back.

Overall I had another great day. Faced a few mini challenges along the way. I was out of bananas this morning and the diet ice tea I was having a cup of in the a.m. in place of the usual diet soda. Normally I would have gave in and gotten mcdonalds but I didnt. I went to WAWA and got a diet ice tea and a bagel sandwich and took off the egg and just had the cheese and bacon. Not completely ideal it actually was 310 calories but it was a little treat and technically I wouldnt consider it fast food.

Then there were the chocolate homeade cupcakes that one of my staff brought in. I followed the rule of JUST SAY NO!!!!! even though they looked so scrumptious.

Then I had to pick the boys up at my nanas where my mom took them after school. She called to say she was getting them happy meals at mcdonalds and what did I want. It really aggrivated me because I have been bragging to her how good I have been doing. I feel like even though she harps on me to be healthy she is one of my biggest roadblocks sometimes. I just dont get it. Anyone I said no thank you and got a salad at Cosi. It was really good.

Came home and did 20 min of dance central 2 on xbox kinect. Got my water in for today and just a funny side note. I had to stop at the grocery store on the way home and I couldnt find the bathroom in there and I literally was contemplating just peeing in my pants thats how bad I had to go. Luckily I used my better judgement and asked a worker to direct me to the bathroom.

Now I am heading off to relax and watch the new season of jersey shore tonight. Yes I am going to be 33 in less than 2 wks and I am addicted to watching Jersey Shore. Its my one guilty pleasure.

Have a great night! and thank you so much Janis for coaching during this busy first week. You were an excellent coach!!!!!!

 

[cjdj4]

Busy day today. Science Fair night at work/DD's school so I was there for 12 hours today. Nice fair though. I ate well again, but not drinking my water. I just cannot seem to let go of the Coke Zero. I really need to make myself.

My anchor is my running medals.

What a great idea. I am going to do that! I only have 1 medal, but I am still going to put it in a prominent place.

Grrrrr! I just found out that I will only have 3 days off in January!! My school has scheduled training days on all 4 Saturdays and 2 Sundays in January!! That only leaves 2 Sundays and MLK holiday Monday off!!! While we do get paid a $200 stipend extra each day, it's really gonna kill me. And do even for for my Healthy Habits I'm trying to establish!! (for those who may not know, I am a kindergarten teacher and I have a 1 way commute of an hour to my school)

Of course there is always a ton of muchies at these things and I always tend to eat more by the afternoon just to stay awake. I'm really gonna have to be strong and take healthy things to eat. And then I'll be so tired I know it will be hard to find the motivation to exercise!! This is where I'm really gonna need all of you to help support and push me!! Kick my butt into gear!

That would NEVER fly here either. And, FL is right to work state.

I think my bosses brother teaches there and hates it lol. I have a friend who teaches in the Lakeland area/Polk County. I don't think it's too far from you. I am actually considering relocating to FL, TX, or VA. I know other teachers in those states and have family in TX and FL. We'll see what happens! Relocating is tough, though. I don't want to sound snobby, but I really don't want to teach in an inner-city school anymore and it's hard to tell online which schools would be a good fit for me. But, I will keep that area in mind! Thanks!

LOL! That does not surprise me. We have gone through a great deal of changes in the last 2 years, and it has made many people unhappy. I love my job, but I know plenty of unhappy teachers. I don't blame you for not wanting to continue working in a tough school. You already paid your dues.

Definitely my grandmother's ring. The diamond may not be real, neither is the gold. I don't think materially it's worth more than $20. But it's a reminder of the relationship we had and that even though there were a lot of things we disagreed on, we still loved each other. Plus I know it would have made her proud to see me wearing it.

Beautiful anchor!

I think she wrote a book that I read last year.... something like "Twenty-one Spiritual Lessons for Weight Loss" (not sure exactly.... too lazy to go look). Great quote.... thanks for sharing!

You are welcome. How was the book? Worth reading?

Jen~I just got my w2 and told DH it's not worth it for me to be teaching here anymore. I know it's not about the money, but I work for a private school, so I could probably start 5-7k more as a first year teacher elsewhere. And, I've been teaching 11 years! In a school for disruptive youth! I'm going to do some research tonight and maybe contact some of my friends who are teachers in FL, TX, and VA. I can see a possible new adventure awaiting my family.

A potential 5-7K increase in pay is huge. I think you should go for it!

Hi cjdj4 .... (you have probably said your real "name" ... but I can't remember ... ugh) I am a remedial reading teacher. I teach Reading Recovery, SpellREAD and Leveled Literacy along with comprehension instruction. Do you teach any of these too, or do you mainly push in?

I love teaching remedial reading. It is tough some days ... but it is also very rewarding.

My name is Jenn I am responsible for overseeing the remedial reading classes, the implementation of district reading curriculum, school reading plan, reading data analysis, reading PD, but mostly helping content area teacher with incorporating reading strategies into their classroom daily. I have not used the reading curriculum you mentioned. We use Voyager Journeys, Read180, and Read XL Read for Real. Do you recommend the ones you use?

Today is my last day for being your Coach
QOTD, Thursday, January 5, 2012 - What is your Anchor????

Thank you for being our coach this week!

I think I am going to steal the medal idea as my anchor.

 

[jenanderson]

The last couple of days have been rough. Really sore from my first work out with my personal trainer! I could barely walk without crying and all I could think was "I chose to do this to myself"
Then I took DS to pre-k yesterday and got a flat between the house and school. Luckily, its less then 1mile, but it was stressful and I was sore and in a bad mood to begin with. Still haven't gotten the tire fixed because the local Firestone's equipment is broken.
I got on the scale today and while I haven't gained anything I haven't lost either so I was completely in shut down mode. But even though I was sore still I forced myself to get on the treadmill and do 20 min. And I'm going to eat better today! I know I can do it!

Renee - I am so proud of you for working through the rough days with your personal trainer! I am sorry that you were in a bad mood today....I can totally relate to that with the foul mood I was in yesterday. It is great that you got on that treadmill and had positive thoughts despite the hard parts!

Thank you, pjlla and jenanderson, for the welcome! I'm still wading through posts trying to get caught up, but it's great to know there are Dis'ers that are so willing to encourage one another.

Your welcome! I think you will find tons of great support here.

Ugh! I woke up feeling horrible this morning. I can't remember the last time I had a cold, but it is wearing me down. I managed to go to the gym yesterday and I was telling the trainer how I wanted to buy P90X for DH, but really didn't want to spend all that money, sooooooo, she let me borrow hers!! Yay! Hopefully, DH makes time to try the workouts and I think I may also. I already do a circuit training class twice a week, a yoga class, and either eliptical or treadmill the other days, but I figured this couldn't hurt. I really want DH to do it because he is stessed with school and work. I was hoping this would give him some time to himself and boost his energy and state of mind. I'll let you know if I do try it and what I think.

I can't believe tomorrow is the first weigh in. I'm really not expecting much this week, but good luck to everyone!

Jill

Jill - I am sorry you are not feeling well. Hopefully the cold will be gone soon! It is really hard to do the exercising when you are not feeling your best so I hope you are able to get done what you want -or- if you don't work out that you get some rest so that you are back at it soon!

Think positive about your first weigh in. Just remember that even if the scale doesn't show the number you want that changes are happening!

Thank you, Janis for coaching!

Ok, almost one week down on the new life plan. I weighed myself this morning and was down .4 from yesterday - yay! That's a step that I can be happy with.

Hope everyone has a good and successful day!

WAY TO GO! Every little drop in weight is a positive step and we have to celebrate! Keep it up!

Big hello from Pat's Peak ski area! DS is out on the slopes. Prayers for another injury free year are always welcome!

Have a FUN and SAFE ski vacation! Skiing is great exercise and so much fun. I hope you have a wonderful time!

 

[GoofyPredsFan]

Can't wait to weigh in tomorrow. Do most of you weigh in when you first get up, mid day or something else? I don't know when is the best time to weigh yourself.

Take care, everyone!!!

Hello! I like to weigh myself first thing in the morning. I find that I seem to weigh the least at that time.

--Lynda

 

[JacksLilWench]

Healthy Habits Week 2: Spaceship Earth

I don’t remember when I actually believed that there is a ride inside the giant silver ball in Epcot, but it’s a good thing I did because I can’t get enough of this attraction! I love the new additions and seeing “my future.” This week, our Healthy Habits focus on “your future.”

This week’s 4 Habits are:

1. It may seem unbelievable when you have to drink 64 oz. of it, but our “ancestors” drank water too. To help you with “your future, your “habit” is to drink a total of 64 oz. of water during the day. You can count up to 8 oz. of tea or coffee toward your total for the day.

2. Our “ancestors” were really big into record-keeping according to the narrator of Spaceship Earth. Recording what one eats and portion control are huge in weight loss and valuable habits to have. Again, this week, write down everything you eat as well as the portion size. (Example: ½ cup of plain uncooked oatmeal, cooked in ½ cup of nonfat milk, with 1 tablespoon of walnuts and 1 teaspoon of brown sugar)

3. As you journey through time, you will need strength and energy. I’ve found that the more I exercise, the more energy I have. This week, your “habit” is to exercise for a total of 20 minutes each day.

The above 3 Habits are the same as last week because you need time for something to become a habit, according to the research.
4. In “your future” you will need your teeth. Dental health is also very important. Floss your teeth daily.

Mini-Challenges

1. “Your Future:” Last we, we “recorded” our goals for the challenge. This week, ”record” up to 3 changes you hope to see in yourself at the end of the challenge.

2. The Libraries of the Middle East: Information about weight loss, eating healthy, fitness, etc. is available almost everyone. Spend some time reading information related to the goals you wrote last week.

Note: This week is from Friday, 1/6 to Thursday, 1/12 so the total possible points one can earn is now 30.

I'm baaaack, lol!!! I remembered I had to send in my points for the week!

I love the challenges CC! The themes are so cool! I can't wait to get started on it

 

[jenanderson]

I have been on a cleaning spree this week - once I started to take down the Christmas decorations, I decided to do an intense DEEP cleaning of each room so that the upkeep can be kept to a minimum. So far this week I've completed the kitchen, living room, dining room and bathroom. I still have the office and two bedrooms to tackle, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Great job on the cleaning Laura! It is amazing how de-cluttering helps with feeling happier and healthier as well! I think I need to take a lesson from you.

That's a great anchor!!! I will still get tears in my eyes when I think of my first ride on Dumbo with DS.

I have tears in my eyes reading everyone's accomplishments!!! What a great group we have!!!

That is a huge step - you should be proud!!! You runner's are making my day.

Great anchor - I can see you slipping it on your finger soon!!!

Janis - We do have a great group...don't we!

My anchor is a picture I have on my 'frig of me on my honeymoon. I am in a bikini ... and at that time I did not have a care in the world about my body. I felt good about myself. I want to be that person again ... and I will with all of your help .... THANKS!

I am currently baking Peanut-Pecan Butter Oatmeal Cookies for a spaghetti fund raiser tomorrow ... and it is KILLING me not to eat one. I am resisting! I put all the ingredients into myfitnesspal and each one is 68 calories! Good gosh ... I know I have eaten at least five (if not more ) in an evening. I keep saying to myself "Drink more water, drink more water, drink more water ...

Whoo Hoo! Love the anchor picture...a bikini picture is an amazing anchor!

Great job resisting the cookies. It is hard to have to bake things you like without eating them. I am proud of you for "drinking the water".

I can't wait to weigh in tomorrow.
Yesterday I baked 6 dozen mini chocolate chip/mini reese's pieces cookies. I wanted to use up some items I over-bought for Christmas.
I will admit that I ate 2, but they weren't all that great. I felt guilty though.
Today I sent a huge container of cookies with DH to give out at work. There's about a dozen cookies left here, but I won't bother eating them.

I've been drinking a ton of water (well, like 72 ounces) and still running to the bathroom with a over full bladder every hour.

Another cheer for someone who is resisting the cookies! I have found that this week the foods that I thought I loved were really not all that great when I ate them and then wrote it down. It really helped me cut back on that type of eating.

The water to bathroom situation cracks me up! I have a 25 minute drive to work in the morning and can barely make it!

I have beat myself up a little bit about it, but I know I can lose it again, I just have to do the work.

my anchor--getting to my goal weight it was a picture from college of me in this shiny purple formal dress from college (it was the 80s, ok?). I thought I was "fat" even then, but all I could think was that I would kill to get back in that dress. I carted that dress all over the country when we moved. Don't ask me why. Anyhow, this spring I could get in the dress. Comfortably. Things are not quite where they were in the 80s but I could easily zip it up.

Rose - It is so easy for some of us to beat ourselves up over gaining a bit of weight (although I have gained more then a bit). You are right though...we can lose it again and it is time for us to do the work and we will do it together!

I love when you talk about the purple dress of the 80s! I think we both must have had some really great clothes back then.

Today didn't start off too well. I put on a shirt that I haven't worn in a while, and wow, it was tight. I think I put it through the dryer, and shouldn't have. (yeah, I'll blame that!) Had to change, and my pants were tight in the waist as well. I felt like a stuffed sausage all day, and couldn't wait to get home and change into my sweats! It is that TOM, so I'm sure the bloated feeling is part of it.

Melissa, I am sorry you felt like this today. I have been feeling all week and it is no fun. You should be so proud of yourself for taking charge, going to get the workout games and then actually working out! You rock!

I wish I could do so too. I am in awe of people that can do that and keep it all straight. I pull up a few here and there...but I always read through every post.

Made it to the store, lots of fruits and veges and some chicken and pita bread. Going to start eating some sandwiches instead of soup everyday; read an article about BHT the other day, got me a little worried. So I have lunches down, now need to start planning some healthy dinners! And maybe will try my hand at home made soup...

Tomorrow is free lunch Friday at work, and they have chili and fixin's, but also have salad and such, so I may have a little bit of chili and lots of salad - this place has catered us before, they usually have a real nice salad. And a nice roll, without butter, is only 3 points. So I can try out some of my sandwiches this weekend, see what I like.

Weigh in is tomorrow, haven't been very good this week although kept up on water some, relaxed everyday and did a little exercise. Start fresh tomorrow though, and open up my WW again as well! Just realized I have a company party to go to in 2 weeks, and need to lose a little bit to slide into my dress...although I do have Spanx!

Carol,
I like how much planning you are doing and all the steps you are taking to make the changes you need to do. You may not feel that you did very good this week but each one of these changes count.

I've also been doing my hour of Pilates everyday and have started meditating which I am finding very difficult.

Breakfast: Fruit
Lunch: Big green salad with chick peas
Dinner: Lentil/spinach curry with brown rice, steamed broccoli and cauliflower

Hugs, health and happiness to everyone

Quasar

Sounds like you are doing a great job! Do you do your pilates with a group or with your trainer? I have tried doing it by following along with a DVD and it is okay but I often think I am doing things wrong!

This thread gets away from me way too quick! I'll have to start checking a few more times a day, haha.

My anchor is a mental picture of me at the finish line of the Tower of Terror 10mi. race in September. I want to go in costume, but I don't know what kind of costume yet. I don't want to be first across the finish line, I just don't want to be last

This thread gets away from me as well! I have been practicing trying to keep up today since I will be the coach for the upcoming week. It does take a lot of checking in throughout the day!

Can't wait to hear about your running the Tower of Terror race in the future! Do you have any ideas for your costume? I bet you will have a blast!

Hi everyone. Sorry I have been MIA today. It was very hectic at the office. I actually had to work.

I too have to relose 30lbs. I think for me I had to finally just come to terms with it and now I am moving on. For months I would start out the day healthy only to throw in the towel by lunch time because I would sulk about how I was at a healthier weight and running miles and miles and now I am back to square one. Well we all know where sulking gets us....NO WHERE! So I think part is just wiping the slate clean and starting to look ahead instead of back.

Oh my gosh...I could have totally written this and I think this is why I had the anger/tantrum yesterday. I was sulking! It is getting me no where and it really is just so time to quit sulking and move forward! Thank you for putting it into words.

 

[jenanderson]

What a great idea. I am going to do that! I only have 1 medal, but I am still going to put it in a prominent place.

I think I am going to steal the medal idea as my anchor.

Jenn - It is not ONLY 1 medal....it is one more medal then many people have! Be proud of your accomplishment and put that medal someplace where you can look at it often and know that you are strong!

Got my water in for today and just a funny side note. I had to stop at the grocery store on the way home and I couldnt find the bathroom in there and I literally was contemplating just peeing in my pants thats how bad I had to go. Luckily I used my better judgement and asked a worker to direct me to the bathroom.

Lindsay - I missed this when I read it the first time and just about died when I read it! All this water is really a challenge!

-----------------------------------------------
Okay, today was not an "all in" sort of day but there were some successes. I am going to not type about things that went wrong because tonight I am just going to think about what was positive....

1 It was DS's birthday today. I took him to his favorite bakery this morning for donuts and did not have even a bit. We also went out to eat and I ate what I planned for and did not share in the big birthday ice cream treat the brought out.

2. I kept a positive attitude all day long and refused to be resentful of the work that has to be done. It helped to think about my anchor and look at all the medals I have earned....I have an amazing 14 of them! That is 14 successful races in 2 years. Then I thought about the races that did not have medals (like my 2 mud runs and some other similar races). I have to think about how positive this is and know that I can feel that strong again with a bit of work.

3. Despite each mistake I have made this whole week, I have written it all down. I have marked how it made me feel and I have noted what might be worth it and what is no longer important at all.

Well, it is time for me to think about getting ready for bed. I will be your coach next week and so this means I have to be up extra early tomorrow to be sure I get the QOTD posted.

Thanks for being such a great and supportive team!
Jen

 

[donaldandpirates]

Day 1 -- I made it a whole day with no soda! This is huge. I did have three Andes mints, though. I was really trying for no sugar at all; but all in all, it was still a pretty good day. Oh, and I bought Zumba Wii. My DD and I are going to start doing that tomorrow.
I've been reading through everyone's successes today to stay motivated, so please keep them coming!!!

 

[4HOLIDAYS]

I have thought about having an anchor all day. I just don't have one nor did I come up with anything. There is no one thing that I see, or memory I have that puts me to that state of mind.

I thhink of how I felt at the start of 2011. i couldn't wait to get to the DRs and for test results. My marriage was in a rough patch(not speaking for weeks) and I was feeling alot of stress and anxiety.The meds made me sleep for the first 2 months-the house was a wreck,no homeschool getting done...My Dad had a heart attack in PA and I had to fly p, while DH was out of town, so the kids were left alone all day and MIL just came at night. I felt horrible as I really had my mom having to take care of me and my dad as soon as he got out of the hosp. again-I was sleeping half the time I was in PA. I know that I NEVER want to feel as bad as I did then.

That keeps me moving forward. I am doing it for me. I really changed in the last year. The improvements in everything else are just extra benefits for everyone else.

The year improved greatly BYW. I feel much better. I am 25 lb lighter that last Jan. DH and I are better. I have 2DS that are really good kids. Parents oved to Fla and Dad is OK for now. The house is it's usual state of chaos, but that is ok. We had several WDW trips, a cruise, paid off about $30 K in debts, and I am getting back to my bL routine. I have to say it has helped alot! I keep telling my DH it helps to see that I am not the only one in these shoes.

 

[quasar4legs]

Do you do your pilates with a group or with your trainer? I have tried doing it by following along with a DVD and it is okay but I often think I am doing things wrong!


I do Pilates 3 times a week one-on-one with the physiotherapist and then do my assigned exercises at home on the other days.

It really helps to have someone there giving immediate feedback because its the little things that make a big difference to the workout.
It does get expensive doing but it has reduced my pain a lot so its been worth the expense.

My niece does a Pilates mat class in a group of 12, I'm eventually hoping to join her at some point down the track.

Cheers
Quasar

 

[buzz5985]

Good Luck everyone with your first week weigh in!!!

It's been a pleasure to be your coach this week. It was my first time and I was really nervous.

I want you to welcome jenanderson - Jen - as your coach this week!!!

If anyone is interested we have plenty of openings for coaches -

2/10/12 - 2/16/12
2/17/12 - 2/23/12
2/24/12 - 3/1/12
3/2/12 - 3/8/12
3/9/12 - 3/15/12
3/16/12 - 3/22/12

Just let me know!!

Janis

 

[donac]

Good Friday morning everyone.

I hope everyone's weigh in goes well today. I will weigh in in a while. I haven't eaten much this week because I was sick but my body has a strange reaction to illness so I don't know what is going to happen.

Went to yoga last night. I don't think I was really ready for it since Ihad been sick. It seemed harder than before but that was probably since I have been sick all week. It just felt good to be back at yoga.

Pretty quiet weekend planned. I don't think anything is planned. All the Christmas decorations are down. I think I just have to do something at church on Sunday. I do have to go grocery shopping this weekend. I haven't been in almost 3 week except for little things.

Off to get ready for work.

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[jenanderson]

Good Morning Team Donald!

A HUGE thank you to Janis for organizing all this and getting us off to a great start!

My name is Jen and I will be your coach this week! I am a middle school teacher and so there will be times that it is difficult for me to get on our thread during the day but I will do my best to keep up with it all.

Some Reminders:
1. Send your weigh in numbers to Dvccruiser76
2. Send your Healthy Habit number to cclovesdis
3. WIN is done monthly but you are welcome to start up and send your numbers to buzz5985.

Thanks to Sue, CC and Janis for taking care of all our numbers every week!

----------------------------------------------

I know that weekends can be a challenging time for many people who are trying to lose weight.

I read a health article about how weekends tend to be our dietary downfalls....

"Monday through Friday, we juggle work obligations and family activities, and rush to get dinner on the table. Then when the weekend finally comes, we kick up our heels, shift into relaxation mode -- and enter a dietary danger zone, where healthy eating and fitness routines may get cast to the wind."

At this point, we have worked hard to make it through our first week. We have made changes, adjusted our eating, drank tons of water, found time to exercise and more. We do not want to cast all these routines aside on the weekend.

Friday's QOTD: What plans do you have in place to be sure you have a successful weekend?

 

[jenanderson]

Friday's QOTD: What plans do you have in place to be sure you have a successful weekend?

I have already put my exercising plan on the calendar. To help that out, today as I get ready for work, I am going to even lay out my running clothes so that when I come home tonight I will not be tempted to put on sweats and skip it. I will see it all laying there ready to go and just get out and run. On Saturday, DD has a dance team competition and we will bring our running gear with so that we can run during the long break between their numbers. Sunday I will be lifting weights and doing my Wii Fit. Again, I set it all up last night so that it makes it easy for me this weekend.

As for the food, I have planned dinner to include some new foods that I want to try that are low fat. I will bring snacks to DD's dance competition because the food there will all be poor choices and I want to be able to have a snack like everyone else.

Finally, I will check in here all weekend long (it helps that I am coaching) so that I can stay focused on the gaol.
----------------------------

Alright, I must get ready for school but will come on to make some replies as soon as I know I am ready for the day!

Have a happy Friday!
Jen

 

[JacksLilWench]

Good Morning Team Donald!

A HUGE thank you to Janis for organizing all this and getting us off to a great start!

My name is Jen and I will be your coach this week! I am a middle school teacher and so there will be times that it is difficult for me to get on our thread during the day but I will do my best to keep up with it all.

Some Reminders:
1. Send your weigh in numbers to Dvccruiser76
2. Send your Healthy Habit number to cclovesdis
3. WIN is done monthly but you are welcome to start up and send your numbers to buzz5985.

Thanks to Sue, CC and Janis for taking care of all our numbers every week!

----------------------------------------------

I know that weekends can be a challenging time for many people who are trying to lose weight.

I read a health article about how weekends tend to be our dietary downfalls....

"Monday through Friday, we juggle work obligations and family activities, and rush to get dinner on the table. Then when the weekend finally comes, we kick up our heels, shift into relaxation mode -- and enter a dietary danger zone, where healthy eating and fitness routines may get cast to the wind."

At this point, we have worked hard to make it through our first week. We have made changes, adjusted our eating, drank tons of water, found time to exercise and more. We do not want to cast all these routines aside on the weekend.

Friday's QOTD: What plans do you have in place to be sure you have a successful weekend?

Hmm, good question! I work a lot, so it seems like I'm not always in relaxation mode during the weekend. I wish I could be though This weekend for me is the weekend to set the foundation for my new eating habits and routines. I will be grocery shopping on Saturday, and have my list all made out. I am housesitting, and they have an elliptical in their garage where I can walk every night. Plus! They're gonna let me take it home at the end of next week! Now I have NO EXCUSES to not train for my 10mi. race!!!

Okay, I sent my numbers into CC, and now I have to send in my (lower)weight to Sue, and take my measurements. That will probably happen tomorrow morning when they're at their lowest, haha! I'm so excited about this new life, I can't even begin to tell you guys

PS, Jen, I will keep you posted about any ideas for my costume for the race...I'm thinking possibly Little Mermaid?

 

[Never to old]

The weather is suppose to be nice and a little warm this weekend. I plan to walk for at least 30 minutes today, sat and Sunday. I have also started a declutter progject. Each weekend I pick on spot to declutter in the house. This weekend is the dining room.