Team Donald – Biggest Loser “No Excuses” 2012 Challenge

[pjlla]

Pamper Week, Sat. 2/25: It's Saturday. Do something you find fun.

I'll have to give this some thought!...............P

 

[pjlla]

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

The things that come to mind immediately are tennis and kickboxing. They both sound like fun. I should bite the bullet and sign myself up for beginner tennis lessons at the Y....not sure what is holding me back (other than the fact that I am cheap!)

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

Ummm... do I have to answer this??

I had a physical WITHOUT the "girlie parts" check in May 2011.... complete with blood work and all that. It was my first physical in over 5 years probably. And I haven't had a GYN check in probably 5 or 6 years.... I KNOW, I KNOW! Shame on me! But I do get my yearly mammogram........P

 

[pjlla]

PHEW! I'm caught up!! Sorry it was so many posts in a row from me.... for some reason my STUPID laptop doesn't want to do multi-quotes!!

I've been sitting here FAR too long now and it is time to hit the TM before lunch. No WAY I am going outside to walk/run.... the wind is HOWLING and snow flurries are flying around.

DS has basketball trophy awards today at 2:30 pm and that is the only thing on the schedule for today! None of us really feel like going, but DH ended up coaching the team at the end of the season after some coaching shake-ups and it wouldn't look good for us to skip. Hopefully it won't take more than an hour.

I'm currently watching season 8 of the BL on Netflix.... and I absolutely DESPISE that Tracy! What a manipulating witch! It is NOTHING but game play with her.... the weight loss is DEFINITELY secondary. I want to google her and see if she actually kept the weight off! I hated Vicky in season (??) 5 too!

Off to slap on the Aasics and exercise bra and hit the TM. I PROMISE myself 20 minutes... but hopefully can push through for at least 30 min..........P

 

[jillbur]

Good morning Donalds!!

I had me some breakfast in bed, lucky charms and cheerios combo with a banana from my lovely son. And I'll share the card he wrote me, it has a big flower in the middle and the poem on the front is
"You're birthday is here, and girl you're getting elderly.
After you read this card, I hope that you feel swelderly!"

We are off to walk the dog, and have a relaxing day at home.

Have a wonderful saturday everyone!!!

Happy Birthday!!

Awww...your son is too sweet and that peom rocks!

Pamper Week, Sat. 2/25: It's Saturday. Do something you find fun.

Okay!!

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

I've always wanted to play tennis and beat my husband. Unfortunately, he wants to play when it's 90 and humid and I want to play when it's cooler. So, we never play.

I had a regular check-up/physical last spring (April) and a complete womanly check-up in November.

Hope yoga went well!.....................P

That's for the tips on the salmon patties and applesauce. I may look online for a way to make the applesauce in the crockpot.

I went to the gym at 8:50 and yoga was cancelled. Grrr....I ended up at the pharmacy to pick up a prescription and to another grocery store to buy meat (stew meat, chicken, and fish). I went to Walmart yesterday for groceries and I don't buy meat there. I usually go to the meat market, but I forgot 2 things at Walmart so went to Giant Eagle instead. Meat is getting so expensive. Well, so is everything else!

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

I have beef stew cooking in the crockpot and I am going to workout when DH wakes up, so I don't bother him. I am heading out to take the dog for a walk in the snow (3-4 inches last night). She loves the snow, so I think a walk will be fun! Boys are trying hard to be quiet while DH sleeps, but they are shooting army men down with nerf guns and it's pretty funny. I hope they don't wake up DH while I'm out walking the dog!

Other than that, not much else to report so I'll be back later to check in.

Jill

 

[trinaweena]

Poor puppy! It was that "mother intuition" that kicked in and told you that something needed to be checked! Happy to hear they were able to take care of it without surgery!!.......................P

Thanks for sharing your story about you DS, its good to know that i'm not the only one. It's so frustrating to feel like the people who are supposed to fix you don't even have time to see you or call you. I didn't go to medical school, I can't fix myself.

Yes I think it was mother intuition! Like i told my vet, I KNOW my dogs, I know when something isn't right! I guess its a really good thing, because dogs cant tell you when they dont feel good!

The pizza sounds yummy! Did you make it yourself? That thin crust pizza I mentioned earlier from Uno's has eggplant and spinach. But I like a bit of cheese... and at home I use lowfat cheese, but they don't offer that at Unos!
.........................P

I did make it myself, we buy whole wheat pizza dough from the grocery store and then i just put whatever i want on it. It was good, I always have troubly forming the dough, but my brother did it (he works at a pizza place) and it came out good. Obviously I can't have cheese but it was fine without it
----
I got some reading done last night before bed which was good, plus proofread my essay (will still need another go around of proof reading). Today I need to work on my bibliography, which really shouldn't be too hard. I know I'm just making it into more a big deal than it should be. This morning my mom called me at ten of 8 to tell me that the hospital did not have my bloodwork paper so i couldn't get my blood work done.

I had an order for bloodwork from my primary care doctor to check my cholestorol, my stomach doctor wanted bloodwork done, and a stool sample. So i had the stool sample paperwork and the bloodwork paperwork from my primary, so i went down to the hospital anyways and at least got that over with. I told the nurse i was terrified of needles and she was so great, talked to me while she did it i didn't even feel it and then she was done. i will def go back there on monday when i need to get the other bloodwork done

stopped at the library to pick up some books i requested from another library and then stopped at stop and shop to get some cereal. i dont normal stop at stop and shop but they have a great organic section, with lots of dairy free options! I got some cereal and few snack type items for the week, and also some chamimiolle tea from a company called traditional medicinals. It says on the box its supposed to releave tension stress and upset stomach. So we will see if that helps at all. It doesnt taste fantastic but im literally willing to try anything.

I also went to the gym and switched to a cheaper membership, that i could have been paying all along, but no one told me. oh well, at least it will be like this for a few months. In switching i also got three personal training sessions, so i hope to finally start working on getting rid of my stomach! They are also offering personal defense classes for women, but they started today and its $65. I hope they run it again because that would be great for me, since i run in the woods alone all the time.

i was a little appalled at how much the organic stuff costs. I hear sometimes that organic doesnt actually make a difference, i was wondering what is your opinion on this? I figure since ive been feeling so crappy i should start watching what i put into my body but if "organic" and "all natural" doesnt mean anything, then im not going to spend the extra money. And i have no problem eating meat, but im thinking about trying tofu, since i've heard its healthier...anyone have any opnions on this?

 

[RemembertheMagic98]

Well.... I'm not a good one to talk to about not getting enough calories. I often think that I am NOT getting enough calories (because I maintain) but then when I bump them up, I get a gain!!

If you are looking to boost calories DO NOT head to fast food!! That stuff is absolute POISON!

Try using full-fat dairy like cheeses.... or full fat salad dressings.... or nuts (not just nut butters).... or sautee in EVOO instead of PAM. Just be sure that the calories you are adding are HEALTHY calories....not empty calories!

Throw a handful of almonds on top of your salad, or make a smoothie with some greek yogurt and whole milk. Put a handful of granola on top of your yogurt (whole grain granola with nuts and raisins). For a splurge, try some Nutella on a piece of whole wheat toast!!.......................P

P, Great points! I love the nutella suggestion!

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

I have beef stew cooking in the crockpot and I am going to workout when DH wakes up, so I don't bother him. I am heading out to take the dog for a walk in the snow (3-4 inches last night). She loves the snow, so I think a walk will be fun! Boys are trying hard to be quiet while DH sleeps, but they are shooting army men down with nerf guns and it's pretty funny. I hope they don't wake up DH while I'm out walking the dog!

Other than that, not much else to report so I'll be back later to check in.

Jill

Beef stew sounds awesome!! I just put apples in my slow cooker for some applesauce from my not-so-great-apples. I'm we have the best smelling houses right now

I got some reading done last night before bed which was good, plus proofread my essay (will still need another go around of proof reading). Today I need to work on my bibliography, which really shouldn't be too hard. I know I'm just making it into more a big deal than it should be. This morning my mom called me at ten of 8 to tell me that the hospital did not have my bloodwork paper so i couldn't get my blood work done.

I had an order for bloodwork from my primary care doctor to check my cholestorol, my stomach doctor wanted bloodwork done, and a stool sample. So i had the stool sample paperwork and the bloodwork paperwork from my primary, so i went down to the hospital anyways and at least got that over with. I told the nurse i was terrified of needles and she was so great, talked to me while she did it i didn't even feel it and then she was done. i will def go back there on monday when i need to get the other bloodwork done

stopped at the library to pick up some books i requested from another library and then stopped at stop and shop to get some cereal. i dont normal stop at stop and shop but they have a great organic section, with lots of dairy free options! I got some cereal and few snack type items for the week, and also some chamimiolle tea from a company called traditional medicinals. It says on the box its supposed to releave tension stress and upset stomach. So we will see if that helps at all. It doesnt taste fantastic but im literally willing to try anything.

I also went to the gym and switched to a cheaper membership, that i could have been paying all along, but no one told me. oh well, at least it will be like this for a few months. In switching i also got three personal training sessions, so i hope to finally start working on getting rid of my stomach! They are also offering personal defense classes for women, but they started today and its $65. I hope they run it again because that would be great for me, since i run in the woods alone all the time.

i was a little appalled at how much the organic stuff costs. I hear sometimes that organic doesnt actually make a difference, i was wondering what is your opinion on this? I figure since ive been feeling so crappy i should start watching what i put into my body but if "organic" and "all natural" doesnt mean anything, then im not going to spend the extra money. And i have no problem eating meat, but im thinking about trying tofu, since i've heard its healthier...anyone have any opnions on this?

WoW!! You have been more productive in one day than I do in one entire weekend!! You go girl

I'm so glad you are moving forward with all the bloodwork and such. I really hope they find something after all of this testing!!

My verdict is still out on organic. I can't see that it has made a difference in my diet and I really can't spend the extra money on it. For now I am just sticking with the regular old food I usually eat I'd be curious to see if you have seen/felt a difference with the organic!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Well I never answered my own question
I would love to learn how to water ski..it just looks so fun! And no, I have not had a full physical in about 3 years and my lady dr in about 2 years. The reason I asked the question is that I HAVE to go and check my cholesterol. It was bordering high last time so I need to see if it's better. The visits to the dr last year were strictly for my GF stuff so we didn't get a full workup done!

Well, I am cleaning up the kitchen today and rearranging the cabinets...I never realized how many things had expired (cans and such)

Have a wonderful day Donalds and make great choices!

 

[pjlla]

[That's for the tips on the salmon patties and applesauce. I may look online for a way to make the applesauce in the crockpot.

Let me know what you find!

I went to the gym at 8:50 and yoga was cancelled. Grrr....I ended up at the pharmacy to pick up a prescription and to another grocery store to buy meat (stew meat, chicken, and fish). I went to Walmart yesterday for groceries and I don't buy meat there. I usually go to the meat market, but I forgot 2 things at Walmart so went to Giant Eagle instead. Meat is getting so expensive. Well, so is everything else!

IT IS!! We've been leaning toward more and more organic meats and it is SO expensive! We did find some reasonably priced organic chicken at Costco and DH found organic beef there this past week for about $5/lb... but that is still steep. We bought a 2 lb. package of wild caught fish earlier this week.... it cost nearly $15 and it made 4 servings!! Thank GOODNESS for our meatless Mondays (and any other meatless days I can fit in!). But it makes me long for the days when DH would eat pasta and I could feed the entire family for $5 !!Sorry about yoga.


I have beef stew cooking in the crockpot and I am going to workout when DH wakes up, so I don't bother him. I am heading out to take the dog for a walk in the snow (3-4 inches last night). She loves the snow, so I think a walk will be fun! Boys are trying hard to be quiet while DH sleeps, but they are shooting army men down with nerf guns and it's pretty funny. I hope they don't wake up DH while I'm out walking the dog!

Other than that, not much else to report so I'll be back later to check in.

Jill

Mmmmm... beef stew! What do you use for stock?? Last time I made it I used half organic lowfat beef broth and half V-8 juice. It turned out great! ............................P

 

[pjlla]

Thanks for sharing your story about you DS, its good to know that i'm not the only one. It's so frustrating to feel like the people who are supposed to fix you don't even have time to see you or call you. I didn't go to medical school, I can't fix myself.

But you CAN advocate for yourself and that is what you need to be doing right now!!

Yes I think it was mother intuition! Like i told my vet, I KNOW my dogs, I know when something isn't right! I guess its a really good thing, because dogs cant tell you when they dont feel good!

NO GOOD can come from ignoring intuition.... whether it is woman's intuition, mom intuition, or fur baby momma intuition!!

I did make it myself, we buy whole wheat pizza dough from the grocery store and then i just put whatever i want on it. It was good, I always have troubly forming the dough, but my brother did it (he works at a pizza place) and it came out good. Obviously I can't have cheese but it was fine without it.

Mmmmm... that sounds good. I used to occasionally make my own pizza dough in the bread machine, but forming the elasticy dough was always a challenge! Now I buy premade honey whole wheat crusts.. much easier!

----
I got some reading done last night before bed which was good, plus proofread my essay (will still need another go around of proof reading). Today I need to work on my bibliography, which really shouldn't be too hard. I know I'm just making it into more a big deal than it should be. This morning my mom called me at ten of 8 to tell me that the hospital did not have my bloodwork paper so i couldn't get my blood work done.

I had an order for bloodwork from my primary care doctor to check my cholestorol, my stomach doctor wanted bloodwork done, and a stool sample. So i had the stool sample paperwork and the bloodwork paperwork from my primary, so i went down to the hospital anyways and at least got that over with. I told the nurse i was terrified of needles and she was so great, talked to me while she did it i didn't even feel it and then she was done. i will def go back there on monday when i need to get the other bloodwork done

Hopefully all of the appropriate tests can get done and you will finally get some answers!

stopped at the library to pick up some books i requested from another library and then stopped at stop and shop to get some cereal. i dont normal stop at stop and shop but they have a great organic section, with lots of dairy free options! I got some cereal and few snack type items for the week, and also some chamimiolle tea from a company called traditional medicinals. It says on the box its supposed to releave tension stress and upset stomach. So we will see if that helps at all. It doesnt taste fantastic but im literally willing to try anything.

Could you mix it half and half with maybe a green tea??

I also went to the gym and switched to a cheaper membership, that i could have been paying all along, but no one told me. oh well, at least it will be like this for a few months. In switching i also got three personal training sessions, so i hope to finally start working on getting rid of my stomach! They are also offering personal defense classes for women, but they started today and its $65. I hope they run it again because that would be great for me, since i run in the woods alone all the time.

Maybe you should carry pepper spray.

i was a little appalled at how much the organic stuff costs. I hear sometimes that organic doesnt actually make a difference, i was wondering what is your opinion on this? I figure since ive been feeling so crappy i should start watching what i put into my body but if "organic" and "all natural" doesnt mean anything, then im not going to spend the extra money. And i have no problem eating meat, but im thinking about trying tofu, since i've heard its healthier...anyone have any opnions on this?

IMHO organics is less about "short term" health and more about "long term" health. It is about eliminating poisons and toxins that could lead to things like cancer. If your grocery dollars are limited, try doing a google search for the "Dirty Dozen". That is a list of the top 12 foods that you should ALWAYS buy as organics.... the foods with the MOST contamination. I know it contains celery and apples, but can't remember the entire list right now.

In addition to things like organics, try eliminating foods that contained ingredients that have been genetically modified.... but I'll warn you that it will be HARD! The U.S. government does NOT require GMO foods to be labeled as such.... so you actually have to look for a label that says it has NOT been made with GMO foods. Corn and soy are BIG offenders in this situation, so if you decide to add tofu to your diet, you need to be aware of this.

Again, these are changes you are making because of long-term health, so I couldn't promise you would feel better immediately.... but you never know!
.........................P

 

[pjlla]

I prefer to work out alone. When it is just me and my IPOD, I tend to lose track of time (in a good way!).

----------------------------------------------------------------------
I took my niece to see The Secret World of Arrietty today. I stopped at 7-11 with the intention of picking up a bag of Pirate's Booty to bring into the movies, but found an individual bag (110 calories) of Special K chips and got those instead. (I did steal a few of my niece's Twizzlers, but stayed away from the movie theatre popcorn. )

Tonight I played around with one of my late grandmother's recipes. She used to make a spinach bread (for lack of a better word) with over a dozen eggs, almost two pounds of different cheeses, flour, bacon and a little spinach. I re-tooled it with eggbeaters, a lot less cheese (and used reduced fat), reduced fat Bisquick, Canadian Bacon and a TON of spinach. Instead of baking it in an 11X13 inch pan, I made it in cupcake tins and froze the extras. Not as good as MamaDear (my grandmother) used to make, but pretty tasty.

As some of you from the last challenge know, I am currently out of work. I've been doing some freelance writing jobs, and was recently approved to be the local Weight Watchers Expert for Examiner.com. It pays next to nothing, but it is something I can put on my resume. I am really trying to get back on track - foodwise, because I don't want to be outed as a "fraud".

If anybody is interested in checking out my "column" - here is the link to my latest article: http://******************/weight-wa...-of-these-weight-watchers-frozen-meals-review . If you'd like to subscribe, I plan on writing about one article a week so you won't be bombarded with email.

- Laura

Finally had time today to go read your article, but the link seems to be broken. I'll try it again, but could you repost a new link?? Thanks!...........P

 

[mikamah]

Oh Kathy...I love I Hope You Dance...it makes me cry every time I hear it!! The song just reminds me that healing can happen and things will not always be so terrible...

So glad your scrapbooking is going well! I'm in the middle of my "Disney Through the Years" beginning with my first visit in 1978! I love Disney books!!
Your son is the BEST!!! The poem is soooo cute! Kathy, I wish you all the best for a wonderful birthday filled with love and happiness that carries through the year! Enjoy your day!!

Thank you Karen. I actually made ds download I hope You Dance to his ipod today. I love the idea of a disney through the years book. I may do somethign like that. I worked on some sports pages for ds today, and went through and organized a bunch of pics I had printed out. I decided a couple years ago to just make pages for ds, and eventually will put them all in an album. I'm a little sporadic and not too well organized depending on what I have or need for stickers, and my mood, I guess, but I'm happy if I've done a few pages. DS is pretty witty. Thanks for the good wishes.

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

Swimming comes to mind, and nothing fancy, but just a comfortable swimming where I can breath while moving without getting short of breath or water up my nose. I've often thought of taking swim lessons, but never got around to it, and now Michael swims better than I ever will, but I still wish I felt more comfortable in the water.
I had a physical last spring, and have one scheduled this spring, but must confess I skipped my mammogram last year, so I will definitely schedule one this year.

Sorry.... I messed up the quote.... but what I was trying to say was...

WOOOHOO on getting back to scrapping!!! You can finish up that second book in no time and then start with some new projects! I've GOT to get photos ordered today so I can pick them up tomorrow when I head into town to buy groceries.....................P

I sort of have multiple projects going, and did some sports pages today, football, skiing, and my favorite pages of the day was at our first Portland Seadogs game in 2008 when ds was asked to start the game at home plate calling out "Play Ball" so he was up on the jumbotron. It was so cool. Guess I wasn't in the disney scrapping mood today.
So happy dd has been able to text a few times, and you're ready for a fun week with ds. Michael just said this morning he couldn't believe vacation was almost over. It really does go by quick when your a kid.

Awwww... how cute!! Breakfast in bed AND a card?? You are training him right!! Don't forget that you are creating someone's "Prince Charming" with your little boy!

HAPPY, HAPPY, HAPPY Birthday to my sweet friend! I hope that today is relaxing and special and that the next year brings you much health and happiness!! ...........P

Thanks, pamela. I am trying to teach him right. I want him to be sensitive, and thoughtful, and really he is very sweet. (most of the time) I gave him 20 dollars and a 30 % off coupon to the hallmark store and sent him in to buy me a gift, and he picked out a disney mug that quoted Walt saying "who says you have to grow up?", and a stuffed dog that looks like Poko. I worked with a woman who had 3 kids, and a dh, but they never aknowledged her birthday, and I know it was her dh more than them, but I felt so bad for her, and I think of her sometimes and I want michael to do the right thing with me. He also wrapped me some of his disney pez containers and little plastic characters, and a gods eye he made and put mickey and goofy on it. And he gave me strict instructions last night to stay in bed til he got up first. It was very cute.

I've been sitting here FAR too long now and it is time to hit the TM before lunch. No WAY I am going outside to walk/run.... the wind is HOWLING and snow flurries are flying around.
Off to slap on the Aasics and exercise bra and hit the TM. I PROMISE myself 20 minutes... but hopefully can push through for at least 30 min..........P

The wind has been crazy here too, though it seems to be quieting down now. Hope you had a fun run on the treadmill.

Happy Birthday!!

Awww...your son is too sweet and that peom rocks!

I've always wanted to play tennis and beat my husband. Unfortunately, he wants to play when it's 90 and humid and I want to play when it's cooler. So, we never play.


I have beef stew cooking in the crockpot and I am going to workout when DH wakes up, so I don't bother him. I am heading out to take the dog for a walk in the snow (3-4 inches last night). She loves the snow, so I think a walk will be fun! Boys are trying hard to be quiet while DH sleeps, but they are shooting army men down with nerf guns and it's pretty funny. I hope they don't wake up DH while I'm out walking the dog!

Other than that, not much else to report so I'll be back later to check in.

Jill

Thank you, Jill. Tennis is fun, we have courts nearby, so will play occassionally. And the great thing was my 30 year old tennis racket still works. Our dog loved the little bit of snow we've had this year too, but I'm just as happy not to have had much of it.

i was a little appalled at how much the organic stuff costs. I hear sometimes that organic doesnt actually make a difference, i was wondering what is your opinion on this? I figure since ive been feeling so crappy i should start watching what i put into my body but if "organic" and "all natural" doesnt mean anything, then im not going to spend the extra money. And i have no problem eating meat, but im thinking about trying tofu, since i've heard its healthier...anyone have any opnions on this?

I don't usually think about organic, but I just looked up the dirty dozen, and it made me a little sick to my stomach. Apples, grapes, strawberries, 3 of ds's favorites. He has at least one apple a day. I need to think about organic, and see what they have at the grocery store.

PWell, I am cleaning up the kitchen today and rearranging the cabinets...I never realized how many things had expired (cans and such)

Won't it feel good to have nice clean cabinets though. I don't do that enough.

IMHO organics is less about "short term" health and more about "long term" health. It is about eliminating poisons and toxins that could lead to things like cancer. If your grocery dollars are limited, try doing a google search for the "Dirty Dozen". That is a list of the top 12 foods that you should ALWAYS buy as organics.... the foods with the MOST contamination. I know it contains celery and apples, but can't remember the entire list right now.

In addition to things like organics, try eliminating foods that contained ingredients that have been genetically modified.... but I'll warn you that it will be HARD! The U.S. government does NOT require GMO foods to be labeled as such.... so you actually have to look for a label that says it has NOT been made with GMO foods. Corn and soy are BIG offenders in this situation, so if you decide to add tofu to your diet, you need to be aware of this.

Again, these are changes you are making because of long-term health, so I couldn't promise you would feel better immediately.... but you never know!
.........................P

Thanks for the info on the organics. Pretty eye opening. We eat a lot on the clean 15 as well, but maybe to try and do a few of the others as organic would be smart for us.

Well, I've spend a bit of time here, and it's time to order supper. I bought some cookies and a small cake to have tonight, and will be completely back on track tomorrow.

Have a lovely night!!

 

[pjlla]

Kathy..... sounds like your birthday was relaxing and low-key. And you are absolutely doing the right thing in training Michael to treat loved ones' birthdays SPECIAL!

I can't get past the feeling of need to check the clock to see if it is time to go pick up DD!! Eight years of constantly being on DD's schedule....hard to change those habits! One more week of no wet towels on the laundry room floor, one more week of NO driving to the Y, one more week of no teen-girl drama, one more week of no trying to fit the entire family's schedule around the swim schedule.......

awww.... who am I kidding?? I miss her like crazy!!!

I went on google to see about where they were going today. Google it yourself if you have time.... it was beautiful! They went to the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

I did end up with 45 minutes on the TM. The first 25 minutes was walk 2 minutes, fast run 1 minute. Last 20 was brisk walking carrying weighted balls.

Done for the day! TTYL..................P

 

[ougrad86]

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).

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!!

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.

I don't like heights, but airplanes don't bother me - probably because I'm all enclosed. I like looking down and seeing the ground go by.

Still trying to figure out how to make those trips work plus Europe...we may have to put WDW/Universal to the side for a couple of years

I found my first geocache Thursday. I did not get a chance to walk at work, so I ran to a park not far from DS's school that had a cache that was labeled as good for beginners - which I am. Was able to find it, way excited, but the items inside appeared to be almost throwaways - one guy even threw in a signed playing card! Not sure the quality of stuff that it was started with though. I did an exchange and signed the log book, then went home and logged it on the site. Very excited, but it is still cold - today anyway, with the wind the chills are down in the 20's. Took DS to the area where his team did their run today, but that was about it. Took ten minutes to look for another cache, then decided I was nuts and went home until DS called me to pick him up.

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 everyday on the WW site. Haven't really learned anything new recently...most of it I am familiar with. What Kaitie learned below really surprised me though.

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.

That flies in the face of everything I 've always learned!

I tend to have a couple of Hershey Kisses in the morning if I am really craving sugar. Tend to try to stick to a Sugar Free Werther's - it has a nice creamy taste that helps to satisfy. I do have blueberries which are sweet. but not anything like a brownie!

I may try this, but not at this point. Maybe when I get closer. I tend to always crave chocolate, no matter when I eat it.

Here we celebrate our progress and recognize our superstars.
Biggest Loser Fall Challenge Week 7!


Now let's get to the good stuff. Who were our superstars of week 7?

The WISH Biggest Loser Spring Challenge Team Donald Week 7 Superstars!!
#10 - 0.60% - MoonFaerie
#9 - 0.63% - pooh2001
#8 - 0.65% - luvpoohandcompany
#7 - 0.73% - shellebelle76
#6 - 0.74% - ougrad86
#5 - 0.98% - vitfamily
#4 - 1.19% - D73
#3 - TIE - 1.40% - akhaloha & ::Snow White::
#2 - 1.42% - mackeysmom
and now
The WISH Biggest Loser Team Donald Spring Challenge Week 7 Biggest Loser is:
#1 - 2.76% - ChelleyB

Oh my, I actually made the top ten. I was getting a little hyper - last fall I always appeared, and this challenge not until now.

And it must have been water loss or something - I gained one pound this week. Still below 170 - I crept up above this week - but I know I ate a little more this week than I should have. Very frustrating week at work, and it may carry over into next week.

Will have to try and make sure it doesn't get to me so that I can make the top ten again!

QOTD Tuesday
Today's movie is Up
Carl was determined to make it to Paradise Falls and had a plan to get there. What is your weight loss plan? Do you do Weight Wacthers, Jenny Craig, Atkins, the Dukan diet, or count calories? Explain your plan (so others can learn what your plan is about) and why it works for you.

WW seems to work for me. I want to be able to choose what to eat, and to be able to eat a wide variety.

Basically, WW has some kind of formula that assigns points to the food you eat, and you get a certain number of points each week, as well as some extra weekly points. All food has points except fruits and veggies, although you are encouraged to eat them you should not gorge on them. Your points are determined by your current weight and activity level. You can also gain activity points, which also can be used for extra food. The weekly and activity points reset each week.

Once a week you weigh in. You can attend meetings or follow the online program (which is what I do now, used to go to meetings) and record your weight. I like seeing the graph from when I was at my heaviest, but it has been kind of jumping around the last year and a half as I lapse, then start again, etc. Determined to keep it on a mostly downward track this time.

I journal online and keep track that way. I like that I can write it in and it determines the points and adds it up for me - I'm lazy that way.

It is alot like counting calories, but seems easier for me to put all together.

My day: 6 AM I find an email from HR that was sent on Friday. They were trying to contact me and were unaware that I had Fridays off. I was excited as I had a really great interview on Thursday.
8:30 AM I call HR. They offer me the position and I accept, but want something documenting that my vacation has been approved for this summer. The department that I was hired into is thrilled, send me an email welcoming me to the department, confirming vacation etc.
Throughout the morning my current boss comes in to congratulate me, starting date is set, invited to new department retreat prior to starting position. Everything was amazing.
11:50 AM call from different person in HR telling me that they cannot give me the position because I did not apply properly online and my application came through for a category that I could not be considered in. No one seems to know what happened, The position WAS open in a category which I could and thought I was applying, but the position was actually listed in 2 categories with separate job numbers (one position, two job numbers) somehow my application went to the wrong category, it was not kicked back as it should have been automatically, I was not only interviewed, but hired, start date and the department is irate because they want me. As of 4:30 I hadn't heard if anything could be done about it or not. I have been through every emotion today. I feel like P's daughter did, but this one could seriously effect the rest of my life given that my current job ends on May 3.

This is totally ridiculous. You were accepted!

QOTD Wednesday
Today's movie is Aladdin
Genie grants you three wishes! But, there are rules:
1. You can not change the past.
2. One wish has to be used on yourself.
3. One wish has to be used on your friends and/or family.
4. One wish can be used for anything.
What do you wish for?

1. I wish that we had enough money that we could stop working and start doing things we love.
2. To be a my healthy weight, and feeling good and energetic!
3. To live closer to my DM and DMIL so we could help look after them - I worry when we are so far away.

The only bad thing about #3 is that we leave DS friends and excellent high school...so even if it came up I would be very torn.

Happy Wednesday friends! Well, DD is off to CR. She should be landing in Miami shortly and be leaving the US shortly after lunch. The last 24 hours had me busy with picking up last minute stuff, finishing laundry, etc. so I haven't been on to chat. And now I am living on about 90 min of sleep, so I don't have the brain power for read and replies!

So glad she got off OK!

Eating on vacation doesn't have to totally throw your healthy plan out the window!
First of all.... if you are anything like me at Disney, you do a TON of walking... so that is the first bonus. And you CAN plan to exercise while on vacation! I don't exercise intentionallly while at Disney, but I do at least 4-5 workouts during a typical summer lakefront vacation with my family. I rise before everyone (I'm a morning person anyhow) and get it done before anyone is awake. Then I shower (or go for an early swim!) and can get breakfast started for everyone. And I don't miss out on any of the usual daytime activities. It's a win-win!
Second.... it is all about BALANCE! If you want to plan on a big special dinner or such, then eat lighter for the remainder of your day. Fruit and a bit of lean protein for breakfast, salad with some light dressing and maybe a cheese stick for lunch.... and lots of carrot and celery sticks, plus fresh fruit for snacks. Save up those calories for your splurge.... and then RIGHT BACK on track for the next meal.
Third.... SHARING! DD and I did a sort of "eat your way around Epcot" on our trip last May and we shared nearly everything (except the beer.... ). We shared a school bread in Norway (chose it based on things we read here, but didn't really like it), shared an appetizer in China (I think it was potstickers), a pastry in France.... and Italy we just bought sparkling water! In Morocco she didn't want anything but I wanted something I had had the previous year and I knew it was a tiny portion, so I bought it. It was so much fun and I don't regret the eating because I made it work! And it was such a fun adventure!!
Fourth....... water! Don't let thirst disguise itself as hunger! Keep yourself hydrated while at Disney and you won't make the mistake of eating when you really need to be drinking.
LASTLY.... as SOON as your vacation is over you are BACK ON PLAN!! Fully and completely! Mark it on your calendar. Make a date with your trainer for the day after you return home.... or make plans with a friend for working out together. Plan those first few days of meals and have things prepared and in the cupboard and freezer.... NO EXCUSES to have to continue the "vacation eating" by ordering in pizza.
Sorry to sound preachy.... just offering up some suggestions.............P

Great suggestions. I don't diet, but if I start eating crazy stuff, I would have issues that I don't want to deal with on vacation, so I eat more, but still keep it reined it (compared to my past). I am always drinking, usually have water hanging off the lanyard around my neck.
Great idea about have some stuff ready when you get back. I never thought to do that - the "vacation" usually lasted a few more days until I had to chance to catch up on the shopping. I will make sure I have some stuff ready this time around!

1. Magical tummy tuck! I'm not particularly vain, but I hate this deflated spare tire I still have after two pregnancies and a near-90 lb. weight loss. I can live with the droopy b**bs and my legs are bearable. And I actually may consider a facelift some day IRL.... but I can't ever foresee spending the $$ or taking the risk for a tummy tuck.

I have the spare tire as well, it is almost fully deflated...but it does affect the clothes I can wear. But like you, I have heard how dangerous tummy tucks are - the worst to get and heal from, with the most complications - that as much as I would like to get one, I cannot justify the risk. I would rather be healthy and just adjust my clothes accordingly.

Job update: They "can't" offer me the job as I applied to the wrong posting even though it was accidental. The good news in their opinion is that the posting that I could have and should have applied to was missing some information so they have to cancel that previous posting, and repost the correct one. I can apply when it opens if I like. Of course so can anyone else and I could be blocked by a Vet. I guess it's better than nothing, but still disappointing.

Make sure after you enter it everything is lined up perfectly - have them check it - altthough it sounds as though they dropped the ball on this one. Fingers crossed that nothing mucks it up this time and you get the job - it sounds as though they really want you, since they were irate about it as well.

QOTD Thursday
Today's movie is Toy Story
You've got a friend in me! How do you prefer to exercise? Do you work out with a friend or group, or do you prefer to exercise alone? Why?

I work out alone for the most part. I do it in my living room if I am doing Wii exercise.

At work, I go walking with a couple of coworkers, but it is sometimes hard to all find time to go out at the same time!

QOTD: On this day in 1993 Beauty and the Beast won 5 Grammy awards for the title song. What is your theme song....you know the one that you can't help singing when it comes on? If you don't have one, think about what one best fits your personality and gets you moving!
Bonus QOTD: Did you have breakfast? What did you have and did it fill you up?

Can't pick one single song - have nearly 3,000 on my iPhone! Everything from musicals and Disney to pop, rock and contemporary country. Anything with a good beat will get me going. I want to set up a play list to dance to at home for exercise.

For breakfast, I usually have high-fiber oatmeal with a serving of blueberries. A couple hours of later at work, I supplement that with a cheese stick so I get some protein. That'll usually get me through the morning with just a piece of fruit for a snack.

On weekends, I usually do OK with just some fruit in the morning. Occasionally I will have something made with Egg Beaters - scrambled or omlet with veggies - or a faux Egg McMuffin made at home.

First half of breakfast eaten. When possible, I often try to break breakfast into two parts.... I eat the first within an hour of rising (well... I try to anyhow) and eat the second about 10 am. That way I don't end up STARVING by noon. And on those days when I rise really early (like 5 am or before), it allows me to eat right away when I'm hungry, but still have something to look forward to!
Today's first half was one serving of FiberOne cereal, 1/4 C blueberries, 1/2 C almond milk... super low Points, but a combination I love. Second half will be a toasted low carb pita with ?? maybe peanut butter, maybe almond butter, maybe LC cheese.... we'll see what I feel like about 9:30 am.

I realized the oatmeal wasn't getting me through my morning, and breaking it up, having some protein later on when I get to work, seems to work better for me. I need to eat almost as soon as I get up, I don't do welll otherwise.

Well, I'm still here even though I don't post much. I was hoping to be closer to 20 pounds lost by the end of Feb, but I'm not going to make it.
I had a hysterectomy on Wednesday. It went great. I didn't have any type of pain meds afterward and was able to go home the same day in the late afternoon. I have to heal. I'm sore. I sleep a lot. I can't exercise yet, but it's crazy how great I feel after having that done. I haven't even had to take motrin or anything.
I'm only at 11 pounds down instead of my goal of like 18 pounds down, but I hope after I heal, I'll be able to get back into walking and back to losing weight.

Best of wishes while you are healing. Take your time. Glad it went well and you sound like you are recovering nicely. How long before you can start regular activities?

Hormonal rant coming...
Not having a good day today. Gained... I can't believe I gained this week... A month of maintaining and I gained...
I know I really shouldn't be complaining since I know there are others who are having worse weight struggles than me and this is probably just TOM talking...but I've been working so hard at it, especially this week. I got all my scheduled exercise in and then some, plus I tracked every calorie I ate. The past three days I've actually made myself eat a spoonful of peanut butter or drink some 1% milk just to get my minimum 1,200 calories. Even today, I've logged in my meals (Fiber bar, Subway, baked pork chop with sweet potato) and am still over 300 calories short from my minimum calories...
Plus my gym consult had to be rescheduled for the 2nd time today (trainer needed to reschedule) and when I told DM about my weigh-in today, she mentioned that our scale is probably not accurate considering it's as old as me and there's about a 10 lb difference between the doctor's office scale and ours. So even though our scale says 201, it's probably more like 207-210 which also means that my starting weight was probably more than I originally thought.
Totally not what I needed to hear today... I guess mostly because it made me come to the realization of 'How did I let it get like this?'
Now whether it's from a starting weight of 225 or 215, I still have lost 15lbs either way and I do take satisfaction in that. My clothes fit better, the back fat is gone and I feel healthier. And I'm still planning on going to the gym today as I originally scheduled. (No drowning my sorrows in chocolate... ) But it's just disappointing to think you've come so far and then find out you actually haven't...
I mean, I'm getting exercise, burning calories and eating healthy. Why am I not losing anymore weight?
Rant over. If you took the time to read this, I really appreciate it.

Remember that it is not always reflected on the scale...pull out the tape measure...check how your clothes fit. Keep that in mind...the scale is not the only measure. You are getting fit, feeling better. And you said hormonal rant - this is very common around this time, you might be retaining water.

Do a calorie check as well. You are very good about working out - make sure you are getting enough calories so you can maintain this level of activity so your body is not trying to conserve too much.

You always weigh more at the doctors. You are usually wearing more clothes and it is later in the day.

It's been a crazy week to say the least. Where to start?
Well I'm sure you are all sick of hearing about it by now, but yes my stomach is STILL bothering me. I actually had to miss class on tuesday which is SUPER upsetting because i swore after I failed out of school because of skipping class that I would never skip another class, but i went to class and all my classmates told me i looked awful and i felt awful and i HAD to work so i went home. It wasnt a huge deal, but it was frustrating. I ended up calling the doctor and basically demanding that I be seen by the actual doctor not the nurse practictioner. The receptionist was quite snippy with me, and told me that he couldn't see me till April. I asked her if i was just supposed to suffer until then and she was like well no, but you haven't gotten blood work (they never told me to) and stool sample. So i'm getting that done tomorrow but i don't know if it will help or not, since i still cant see an actual doctor till april. The middle of april
I'm going to see my primary care doctor on wednesday to talk about anxiety issues. Maybe that is the cause of these problems? I honestly don't care what is causing it anymore, i just want it to stop. I felt great this morning, ate breakfast and then started to feel sick midafternoon. I've been cranky today anyways, worked at 7am, and didn't eat anything, plus it snowed so its just crappy weather wise.
I suppose it didn't help that i was cranky and tired, and just woken up from a nap. It was just not a great experience. Also the dress ended up costing me $200 that i dont have. The one good thing was they took our measurements and mine were smaller than hers! Petty I know, but she's always had the perfect body and ALWAYS been the pretty one so that was a nice moment. I ended up ordering the dress in a size 8, so i can't gain any wait till september! Which shouldn't be so hard since i'm still not eating.

Maybe you should ask your primary care doctor if he can do anything, run any tests or recommend another doctor. You are being mistreated, and should go elsewhere where someone can treat you quickly and with kindness and compassion. Doctors know the best doctors around. I hope you can get this turned around quickly.

Yeh on the dress measurement! 8 is a great size! I will probably never see that again...I'd be over the moon to get to a 10 when I reach my ultimate goal.

I would suggest cheese or nuts. I love low-fat string cheese and nuts are great and really healthy for you. Or just scramble some eggs for a light post-work out snack, you could add some veggies and some cheese.

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

I would have loved to ice skate or do gymnastics. Never had the where withall to do that, and I inherited my dad's weak ankles (although my ankles are fine now, my knees are the issue). Equestrian would be fun as well. But we were a poor family, did not have money to throw away.

Last time was a year and a half ago. Planning to have another this summer.

For a splurge, try some Nutella on a piece of whole wheat toast!!.......................P

Oh my gosh, I just experienced Nutella...it was sooo chocolately....I need to get it out of the house since I don't need extra calories!
We picked it up since we made something for DS's German class, and I could have ate it with a spoon (although too much would've made me sick)...licked my fingers when we were done! It was so good.

I think I will take it to work and set it out with some crackers or shortbread cookies...I will eat too much if it is in the house.

*******************************************
Need to finish up the laundry...will check back in tomorrow.

Carol

 

[my3princes]

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

Curling, that is the sport that I'd try. It looks fun and easy in the Olympics

All of my appointments are up to date, my last physical was just last month and the girlie ones we in the fall.





Today was the State High School Singles tournament. Everyone bowled 2 games then they divided them into two groups and A group with the higher averages and a B group with the lower. Nick bowled well the fist 2 games and was placed in group A. Hunter did not bowl as well as usual and ended up the the B group. When all was said and done, Nick placed 6th and bowled consistantly about his average. Hunter took home the first place trophy for the B group. He bowled well above his average after those first 2 games. In fact the first game after the split he had the highest pin fall of everyone A and B. I must say it was a stressful afternoon watching them though. High School Bowling is now finished for the year with the exception of the banquet. Good thing as Lacrosse starts next Saturday.

 

[trinaweena]

It is so hard not to still see myself as large.

I was going to not write this, but I wanted to get it out, and I know you folks would understand.

As of today I have lost 27lbs. I weigh 138.3 pounds. A weight that I thought I would never see again. My clothes fit better, there are even times when I think I could be pretty. But most of the time I don't see the "skinny" girl, I still see the large girl who weighed 165lbs and wore nothing but sweatpants.

My mom and I were looking at dresses for the bridal shower and she said "I wish i could wear these dresses and look good" and I said "me too" and she was like "no you would look fantastic"

I don't see it. I understand that I've lost a lot of weight, and I have a desirable body type, but i still don't see it. I see all the little imperfections and the tiny bit of weight i need to still lose. I see bikini season and a cruise and me still not at my goal.

I would really just like to tell the big girl inside me to relax and embrace the new skinny girl!

 

[jillbur]

Well, I am cleaning up the kitchen today and rearranging the cabinets...I never realized how many things had expired (cans and such)

I can PM you my address if you want to come do my pantry! I actually just told DH this past week that we need to clean it out. I'll get there soon.

Mmmmm... beef stew! What do you use for stock?? Last time I made it I used half organic lowfat beef broth and half V-8 juice. It turned out great! ............................P

Actually, I only made beef stew because I got a good deal on stew meat today. I didn't have my recipe with me & couldn't remember it since it's been so long since I've made it. Sooooo, I cheated and bought a package of beef stew seasonings. I just mixed it with water and added corn starch (mixed with water) toward the end to thicken it. It was pretty good. Even DS8 liked it. DS5 had pb&j...he looked at the stew and said, "yuck." lol.

Thanks, pamela. I am trying to teach him right. I want him to be sensitive, and thoughtful, and really he is very sweet. (most of the time) I gave him 20 dollars and a 30 % off coupon to the hallmark store and sent him in to buy me a gift, and he picked out a disney mug that quoted Walt saying "who says you have to grow up?", and a stuffed dog that looks like Poko. I worked with a woman who had 3 kids, and a dh, but they never aknowledged her birthday, and I know it was her dh more than them, but I felt so bad for her, and I think of her sometimes and I want michael to do the right thing with me. He also wrapped me some of his disney pez containers and little plastic characters, and a gods eye he made and put mickey and goofy on it. And he gave me strict instructions last night to stay in bed til he got up first. It was very cute.

You're raising a great kid! He is going to make an amazing husband one day!

I can't get past the feeling of need to check the clock to see if it is time to go pick up DD!! Eight years of constantly being on DD's schedule....hard to change those habits! One more week of no wet towels on the laundry room floor, one more week of NO driving to the Y, one more week of no teen-girl drama, one more week of no trying to fit the entire family's schedule around the swim schedule.......

awww.... who am I kidding?? I miss her like crazy!!!

Of course you do!

I found my first geocache Thursday. I did not get a chance to walk at work, so I ran to a park not far from DS's school that had a cache that was labeled as good for beginners - which I am. Was able to find it, way excited, but the items inside appeared to be almost throwaways - one guy even threw in a signed playing card! Not sure the quality of stuff that it was started with though. I did an exchange and signed the log book, then went home and logged it on the site. Very excited, but it is still cold - today anyway, with the wind the chills are down in the 20's. Took DS to the area where his team did their run today, but that was about it. Took ten minutes to look for another cache, then decided I was nuts and went home until DS called me to pick him up.

Congrats! We've done some with junky things inside and others with cool things. I really don't get why there are things to trade But, it is fun. With gas going sky high, we do less and less. But, if we go on vacation, we made sure to get a cache or two (or more if we have time). It does get funny when they are hidden in high traffic areas. Here I am looking in a bush or under a pay phone and people are just walking by staring You have to be in stealth mode all the time!

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

It's 9:27 and this is the latest I've been up in the last couple of days
I have to get going and clean up some before heading to bed. Have a healthy Sunday!

Jill

 

[donac]

Good Sunday morning everyone

Kathy Happy Birthday Michael sounds like a sweetheart. You have done a great job raising him right.

Pamela I know how it feels to have been on a schedule for so long that it feels strange not to be driving here there and everywhere. There are still weekends in Sept and Oct saying "Don't I have a marching band event I need to be at?"

trinaweena You have done a great job on your weight loss. I wish everyone who lost weight could have a total makeover by a specialist. I think it would make us feel better about ourselves.

Originally Posted by RemembertheMagic98
Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!


Deb I saw this question yesterday and I couldn't think of a sport that I would like to try but I aggree with you. Ds's and I have really gotten into curling during the last few Olympics and it might be one that I can do. ALso congrats on the great bowling season for the two boys.

My last physical was in October. MY last mammo was in Sept. I do need to get my eyes and teeth checked.

Judy thanks for the great question.

Jill I made beef stew a couple of weeks ago and I really enjoyed it.

Hi to who ever I missed.

I am heading to my parents house today. I am hoping to meet up with my sister and her dh so that we can discuss our trip to DW in Aug. She wants to plan another sit down meal and I don't know if I can do that. AS it is with two for the 5 days it means I can't eat at a counter serve in Epcot because both of them are in Epcot. We have one sit down with just our family before we all get together but I am not sure that I want a sit down every day. The only good thing is that most of the sit downs are planned for lunch so that I have time to digest and won't be going to bed on a full stomach.

Off to get dressed for church and grocery shopping before we leave for my parents house.

Have a happy and healthy day.

 

[pjlla]

I found my first geocache Thursday. I did not get a chance to walk at work, so I ran to a park not far from DS's school that had a cache that was labeled as good for beginners - which I am. Was able to find it, way excited, but the items inside appeared to be almost throwaways - one guy even threw in a signed playing card! Not sure the quality of stuff that it was started with though. I did an exchange and signed the log book, then went home and logged it on the site. Very excited, but it is still cold - today anyway, with the wind the chills are down in the 20's. Took DS to the area where his team did their run today, but that was about it. Took ten minutes to look for another cache, then decided I was nuts and went home until DS called me to pick him up.

At least you were out there moving! Sounds like fun.... I'll bet my DS would enjoy it.


I usually read everyday on the WW site. Haven't really learned anything new recently...most of it I am familiar with. What Kaitie learned below really surprised me though.



That flies in the face of everything I 've always learned!

I tend to have a couple of Hershey Kisses in the morning if I am really craving sugar. Tend to try to stick to a Sugar Free Werther's - it has a nice creamy taste that helps to satisfy. I do have blueberries which are sweet. but not anything like a brownie!

I may try this, but not at this point. Maybe when I get closer. I tend to always crave chocolate, no matter when I eat it.

Okay.... I gotta say... suggesting that people eat a BROWNIE for breakfast is just WRONG. I KNOW WW is about no restrictions. But suggesting that people eat refined white flour and white sugar at breakfast is a LOUSY idea! Sure, maybe the whole "sugar in the morning" thing works... but shouldn't it be something like FRUIT SUGAR.... or a complex carb type sugar??

First of all is the health issue.... I think things like brownies should be once-in-a-great-while treats. Secondly, you are setting some folks up for DISASTER with this! Some people won't stop at one brownie.... or they will skip the healthy breakfast and have 3 brownies instead.... you know the types..... the ones who think "If one is good, three must be better!" And third... I think what is missing is that this breakfast brownie is the ONLY brownie of the day! They are neglecting to mention that you shouldn't have a second brownie after lunch and then a third after dinner!

If you read between the lines, they are "suggesting" that this is your only sugary treat for the day, but it doesn't explicitly say that. And I'm sorry, but I would STILL CRAVE a sugary treat later in the day. It is just the way I am set up. I've tried Atkins and South Beach both and no matter HOW LONG I stay on the program, I am STILL CRAVING SWEETS!! It is a matter of learning to deal with these cravings!



Oh my, I actually made the top ten. I was getting a little hyper - last fall I always appeared, and this challenge not until now.

And it must have been water loss or something - I gained one pound this week. Still below 170 - I crept up above this week - but I know I ate a little more this week than I should have. Very frustrating week at work, and it may carry over into next week.

Will have to try and make sure it doesn't get to me so that I can make the top ten again!

WOOOhoo on making top 10.... it will happen again if you make it!!



WW seems to work for me. I want to be able to choose what to eat, and to be able to eat a wide variety.

Basically, WW has some kind of formula that assigns points to the food you eat, and you get a certain number of points each week, as well as some extra weekly points. All food has points except fruits and veggies, although you are encouraged to eat them you should not gorge on them. Your points are determined by your current weight and activity level. You can also gain activity points, which also can be used for extra food. The weekly and activity points reset each week.

Once a week you weigh in. You can attend meetings or follow the online program (which is what I do now, used to go to meetings) and record your weight. I like seeing the graph from when I was at my heaviest, but it has been kind of jumping around the last year and a half as I lapse, then start again, etc. Determined to keep it on a mostly downward track this time.

I journal online and keep track that way. I like that I can write it in and it determines the points and adds it up for me - I'm lazy that way.

It is alot like counting calories, but seems easier for me to put all together.


Great explanation of WW!

Oh my gosh, I just experienced Nutella...it was sooo chocolately....I need to get it out of the house since I don't need extra calories!
We picked it up since we made something for DS's German class, and I could have ate it with a spoon (although too much would've made me sick)...licked my fingers when we were done! It was so good.

I think I will take it to work and set it out with some crackers or shortbread cookies...I will eat too much if it is in the house.

*******************************************
Need to finish up the laundry...will check back in tomorrow.

Carol

DD does eat it with a spoon!! She's lucky she can get away with it with all of the swimming. I try NOT to have it in the house all the time though.... she would eat it for every meal!

Today was the State High School Singles tournament. Everyone bowled 2 games then they divided them into two groups and A group with the higher averages and a B group with the lower. Nick bowled well the fist 2 games and was placed in group A. Hunter did not bowl as well as usual and ended up the the B group. When all was said and done, Nick placed 6th and bowled consistantly about his average. Hunter took home the first place trophy for the B group. He bowled well above his average after those first 2 games. In fact the first game after the split he had the highest pin fall of everyone A and B. I must say it was a stressful afternoon watching them though. High School Bowling is now finished for the year with the exception of the banquet. Good thing as Lacrosse starts next Saturday.

Sounds like they both had a great day!! Congratulations to them!!

Wow.... no break in the schedule, huh?

It is so hard not to still see myself as large.

I was going to not write this, but I wanted to get it out, and I know you folks would understand.

As of today I have lost 27lbs. I weigh 138.3 pounds. A weight that I thought I would never see again. My clothes fit better, there are even times when I think I could be pretty. But most of the time I don't see the "skinny" girl, I still see the large girl who weighed 165lbs and wore nothing but sweatpants.

My mom and I were looking at dresses for the bridal shower and she said "I wish i could wear these dresses and look good" and I said "me too" and she was like "no you would look fantastic"

I don't see it. I understand that I've lost a lot of weight, and I have a desirable body type, but i still don't see it. I see all the little imperfections and the tiny bit of weight i need to still lose. I see bikini season and a cruise and me still not at my goal.

I would really just like to tell the big girl inside me to relax and embrace the new skinny girl!

I totally understand. I absolutely STILL cannot wrap my mind around my size. When I see folks on tv (primarily on BL finales, when you see their weight) I will see someone step on the scale and they weight 150 or 160 or even 170 and I think that is what I look like (even though I haven't been over the 130s in a long time).... but when the girls step up who weigh 129, 135, 137.... I NEVER think that I look like them..... even though DD always tells me I do.

There are times when I get dressed in the morning that I feel "fat" and I think I look chunky.... despite the fact that I have just dressed myself in size 4 pants and a size small top!! I think that is a type of body dysmorphic syndrome.

No advise on how to get past it..... just keep working on having a HEALTHY STRONG body as well as a SLIM body... and be sure your goal weight is a reasonable one!!

Actually, I only made beef stew because I got a good deal on stew meat today. I didn't have my recipe with me & couldn't remember it since it's been so long since I've made it. Sooooo, I cheated and bought a package of beef stew seasonings. I just mixed it with water and added corn starch (mixed with water) toward the end to thicken it. It was pretty good. Even DS8 liked it. DS5 had pb&j...he looked at the stew and said, "yuck." lol.

Sounds delish. There's always one who doesn't like it, isn't there??



It's 9:27 and this is the latest I've been up in the last couple of days
I have to get going and clean up some before heading to bed. Have a healthy Sunday!

Jill

I was struggling to stay awake until 9pm last night, so I understand~! I felt myself fading by 8:30, but pushed through until about 9:15 when I finally gave up!

Pamela I know how it feels to have been on a schedule for so long that it feels strange not to be driving here there and everywhere. There are still weekends in Sept and Oct saying "Don't I have a marching band event I need to be at?"

Glad it's not just me! I must have jumped up to check the clock at least three times last evening. And then every time I had to remind myself that I had NO WHERE to go!!

Originally Posted by RemembertheMagic98
Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!


Deb I saw this question yesterday and I couldn't think of a sport that I would like to try but I aggree with you. Ds's and I have really gotten into curling during the last few Olympics and it might be one that I can do. ALso congrats on the great bowling season for the two boys.

My last physical was in October. MY last mammo was in Sept. I do need to get my eyes and teeth checked.

Judy thanks for the great question.

Jill I made beef stew a couple of weeks ago and I really enjoyed it.

Hi to who ever I missed.

I am heading to my parents house today. I am hoping to meet up with my sister and her dh so that we can discuss our trip to DW in Aug. She wants to plan another sit down meal and I don't know if I can do that. AS it is with two for the 5 days it means I can't eat at a counter serve in Epcot because both of them are in Epcot. We have one sit down with just our family before we all get together but I am not sure that I want a sit down every day. The only good thing is that most of the sit downs are planned for lunch so that I have time to digest and won't be going to bed on a full stomach.

Off to get dressed for church and grocery shopping before we leave for my parents house.

Have a happy and healthy day.

I love Disney planning! I'm jealous!! Have a fun day planning your trip and your fancy meals!

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

Morning friends!

Heard from DD briefly last night and another quick text this morning. Apparently the wi-fi in their room last night wasn't quite on par and after the first two texts it wouldn't send again... and they were on lock-in already, so no heading to a common area to text. But at least she was able to get a message to me twice and I know all is good. Yesterday was horseback riding on the beach.... and she finally got to the Pacific Ocean... and today they are ziplining through the cloud forest!! Holy Cow, that sounds like FUN!

Her texts sound super excited and super happy..... food sounds good, no illnesses or sunburns mentioned, so I think it is going great.

Today DS and I will do some cleaning around here.... his room, his Lego room, and a bit of general housework downstairs. Then some grocery shopping.... not sure if I'll be alone for that or not. Then we will be ready for his mini birthday party celebration tomorrow!

Sunny and bright here today, but cold (in the 30's) and still a bit windy, but not howling like yesterday. Not sure what is up for exercise today, but it probably will NOT be outdoors!

Strange dreams about Sasquatch last night! Gotta stop watching "Finding Bigfoot" with DS!!

Coffee pot is calling!.........................P

 

[RemembertheMagic98]

Sunday QOTD: OSCAR DAY!! In 1941 "When You Wish Upon a Star" won an Oscar for Best Song of the Year at the 13th Academy Awards. Jiminy Cricket was the voice of sage advice for Pinocchio. Who is the person you turn to when you need advice and support?

Bonus: What's the best advice you have ever been given?

 

[::Snow_White::]

Good for you for checking this stuff out ahead of time!! I agree.... restaurant meals are crazy!!!!

Did you double check the portions? The "individual" multigrain thin crust pizza that I like at Pizzeria Unos is actually listed as THREE servings when you check the NI !!!!

I'm impressed that you skipped the pizza! Love me a good veggie burger! The Morningstar Farms California T'key burger (no actual meat) is DELICIOUS and only 90 calories each! (ooooh.... I sound like one of those BL infomercials!).........................P

The Morningstar Tkey burger is actually what I had on my sandwich! First time I tried that kind, but wow it was so good! After my vegetables and sandwich I had no room for anything else but some cinnamon sticks! I love morningstar products.

It's crazy once you start paying attention to calories and try to eat out. I usually tend to watch what i eat during the day if i know im eating out, so i can indulge. I remember when i first started counting calories my boyfriend took me to Olive Garden and i was looking up information on my phone like "wow I can't eat ANYTHING". It is even more difficult now not being able to have dairy because so much has dairy in it!

I just wicked slacked off today and im so dissapointed in myself. I have all day and night tomorrow, but sunday i have work and then i wanted to hang out with my boyfriend without the threat of homework hanging over me!

maybe i can get a reading done before bed!

I ate dinner (I felt sick before/after/during but i forced myself) Whole wheat pizza with eggplant, mushrooms, spinach, and artichokes. NO CHEESE! Honestly I didn't miss the cheese. I like stuff on my pizza, lots of veggies, theres no room for cheese! And i'm sure i save a lot of calories that way!

I felt bad because my parents were suggesting things and I said that I had already looked up some foods because the rest of it had so many calories. I don't want to sound like that annoying person who only cares about calories and not splurge, but I'm working so hard there is no point for me to sabotage myself when there is something perfectly acceptable on the menu!

That pizza sounds yummy!

Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!

Oh. How about some Quidditch?

I've actually always wanted to try lacrosse, it's just such an interesting and fun sport.

I'm currently watching season 8 of the BL on Netflix.... and I absolutely DESPISE that Tracy! What a manipulating witch! It is NOTHING but game play with her.... the weight loss is DEFINITELY secondary. I want to google her and see if she actually kept the weight off! I hated Vicky in season (??) 5 too!

Off to slap on the Aasics and exercise bra and hit the TM. I PROMISE myself 20 minutes... but hopefully can push through for at least 30 min..........P

Thank you for posting this! I had no idea that BL was on netflix! I just started watching season 5. This will definitely motivate me more!

i was a little appalled at how much the organic stuff costs. I hear sometimes that organic doesnt actually make a difference, i was wondering what is your opinion on this? I figure since ive been feeling so crappy i should start watching what i put into my body but if "organic" and "all natural" doesnt mean anything, then im not going to spend the extra money. And i have no problem eating meat, but im thinking about trying tofu, since i've heard its healthier...anyone have any opnions on this?

I buy a couple of organic things, but can't really say too much as to the difference it makes. But it is incredibly expensive. Tofu is so good! I'm a vegetarian so I use tofu to get my protein. I would suggest nasoya cubed tofu. It makes it much easier since it's already cut up and I think it cooks a lot better. It will take a couple of tries to cook it right, the first few times I didn't cook it long enough and it was a little squishy.

Kathy..... sounds like your birthday was relaxing and low-key. And you are absolutely doing the right thing in training Michael to treat loved ones' birthdays SPECIAL!

I can't get past the feeling of need to check the clock to see if it is time to go pick up DD!! Eight years of constantly being on DD's schedule....hard to change those habits! One more week of no wet towels on the laundry room floor, one more week of NO driving to the Y, one more week of no teen-girl drama, one more week of no trying to fit the entire family's schedule around the swim schedule.......

awww.... who am I kidding?? I miss her like crazy!!!

I went on google to see about where they were going today. Google it yourself if you have time.... it was beautiful! They went to the Monteverde Cloud Forest.

I did end up with 45 minutes on the TM. The first 25 minutes was walk 2 minutes, fast run 1 minute. Last 20 was brisk walking carrying weighted balls.

Done for the day! TTYL..................P

Wow Monteverde Cloud Forest is gorgeous!!

It is so hard not to still see myself as large.

I was going to not write this, but I wanted to get it out, and I know you folks would understand.

As of today I have lost 27lbs. I weigh 138.3 pounds. A weight that I thought I would never see again. My clothes fit better, there are even times when I think I could be pretty. But most of the time I don't see the "skinny" girl, I still see the large girl who weighed 165lbs and wore nothing but sweatpants.

My mom and I were looking at dresses for the bridal shower and she said "I wish i could wear these dresses and look good" and I said "me too" and she was like "no you would look fantastic"

I don't see it. I understand that I've lost a lot of weight, and I have a desirable body type, but i still don't see it. I see all the little imperfections and the tiny bit of weight i need to still lose. I see bikini season and a cruise and me still not at my goal.

I would really just like to tell the big girl inside me to relax and embrace the new skinny girl!

I don't have any advice for this, but I hope you feel better soon.

QOTD: I usually come on here when I need advice and to my best friend when I need support.

Bonus: The best advice I have ever been given...Not really sure. I've mostly educated myself so everything that I have learned I read.
----
Only went about 240 calories over my limit yesterday, all due to those tasty krispy kreme donuts! I ended up getting a bowl of broccoli cheese soup and a side of fruit that had pinneaple, a strawberry, and peaches. I never had peaches before and oh my goodness, they were so delicious!!

I have a 6.5 mile run today, feeling pretty good about it!

Hope you all have a wonderful and healthy day!

 

[RemembertheMagic98]

IMHO organics is less about "short term" health and more about "long term" health. It is about eliminating poisons and toxins that could lead to things like cancer. If your grocery dollars are limited, try doing a google search for the "Dirty Dozen". That is a list of the top 12 foods that you should ALWAYS buy as organics.... the foods with the MOST contamination. I know it contains celery and apples, but can't remember the entire list right now.

In addition to things like organics, try eliminating foods that contained ingredients that have been genetically modified.... but I'll warn you that it will be HARD! The U.S. government does NOT require GMO foods to be labeled as such.... so you actually have to look for a label that says it has NOT been made with GMO foods. Corn and soy are BIG offenders in this situation, so if you decide to add tofu to your diet, you need to be aware of this.

Again, these are changes you are making because of long-term health, so I couldn't promise you would feel better immediately.... but you never know!
.........................P

P, thanks for clearing thing up! I never realized that all the news fruits and veggies in my diet could have such terrible long term effects...wow!!

Thank you Karen. I actually made ds download I hope You Dance to his ipod today. I love the idea of a disney through the years book. I may do somethign like that. I worked on some sports pages for ds today, and went through and organized a bunch of pics I had printed out. I decided a couple years ago to just make pages for ds, and eventually will put them all in an album. I'm a little sporadic and not too well organized depending on what I have or need for stickers, and my mood, I guess, but I'm happy if I've done a few pages. DS is pretty witty. Thanks for the good wishes.

Swimming comes to mind, and nothing fancy, but just a comfortable swimming where I can breath while moving without getting short of breath or water up my nose. I've often thought of taking swim lessons, but never got around to it, and now Michael swims better than I ever will, but I still wish I felt more comfortable in the water.
I had a physical last spring, and have one scheduled this spring, but must confess I skipped my mammogram last year, so I will definitely schedule one this year.

I sort of have multiple projects going, and did some sports pages today, football, skiing, and my favorite pages of the day was at our first Portland Seadogs game in 2008 when ds was asked to start the game at home plate calling out "Play Ball" so he was up on the jumbotron. It was so cool. Guess I wasn't in the disney scrapping mood today.
So happy dd has been able to text a few times, and you're ready for a fun week with ds. Michael just said this morning he couldn't believe vacation was almost over. It really does go by quick when your a kid.


Thanks, pamela. I am trying to teach him right. I want him to be sensitive, and thoughtful, and really he is very sweet. (most of the time) I gave him 20 dollars and a 30 % off coupon to the hallmark store and sent him in to buy me a gift, and he picked out a disney mug that quoted Walt saying "who says you have to grow up?", and a stuffed dog that looks like Poko. I worked with a woman who had 3 kids, and a dh, but they never aknowledged her birthday, and I know it was her dh more than them, but I felt so bad for her, and I think of her sometimes and I want michael to do the right thing with me. He also wrapped me some of his disney pez containers and little plastic characters, and a gods eye he made and put mickey and goofy on it. And he gave me strict instructions last night to stay in bed til he got up first. It was very cute.
The wind has been crazy here too, though it seems to be quieting down now. Hope you had a fun run on the treadmill.

Thank you, Jill. Tennis is fun, we have courts nearby, so will play occassionally. And the great thing was my 30 year old tennis racket still works. Our dog loved the little bit of snow we've had this year too, but I'm just as happy not to have had much of it.

I don't usually think about organic, but I just looked up the dirty dozen, and it made me a little sick to my stomach. Apples, grapes, strawberries, 3 of ds's favorites. He has at least one apple a day. I need to think about organic, and see what they have at the grocery store.

Won't it feel good to have nice clean cabinets though. I don't do that enough.


Thanks for the info on the organics. Pretty eye opening. We eat a lot on the clean 15 as well, but maybe to try and do a few of the others as organic would be smart for us.

Well, I've spend a bit of time here, and it's time to order supper. I bought some cookies and a small cake to have tonight, and will be completely back on track tomorrow.

Have a lovely night!!

Kathy, it sounds like you had a wonderful birthday and DS sounds like he is learning how to be the perfect husband A little cake for your birthday is such a great treat! ENJOY!!!

I don't like heights, but airplanes don't bother me - probably because I'm all enclosed. I like looking down and seeing the ground go by.

Still trying to figure out how to make those trips work plus Europe...we may have to put WDW/Universal to the side for a couple of years

I found my first geocache Thursday. I did not get a chance to walk at work, so I ran to a park not far from DS's school that had a cache that was labeled as good for beginners - which I am. Was able to find it, way excited, but the items inside appeared to be almost throwaways - one guy even threw in a signed playing card! Not sure the quality of stuff that it was started with though. I did an exchange and signed the log book, then went home and logged it on the site. Very excited, but it is still cold - today anyway, with the wind the chills are down in the 20's. Took DS to the area where his team did their run today, but that was about it. Took ten minutes to look for another cache, then decided I was nuts and went home until DS called me to pick him up.
I absolutely have to do this!!! It sounds like a lot of fun and great exercise



I usually read everyday on the WW site. Haven't really learned anything new recently...most of it I am familiar with. What Kaitie learned below really surprised me though.



That flies in the face of everything I 've always learned!

I tend to have a couple of Hershey Kisses in the morning if I am really craving sugar. Tend to try to stick to a Sugar Free Werther's - it has a nice creamy taste that helps to satisfy. I do have blueberries which are sweet. but not anything like a brownie!

I may try this, but not at this point. Maybe when I get closer. I tend to always crave chocolate, no matter when I eat it.



Oh my, I actually made the top ten. I was getting a little hyper - last fall I always appeared, and this challenge not until now.
WOOOOHOOO! Congratulations and keep up the great work!

And it must have been water loss or something - I gained one pound this week. Still below 170 - I crept up above this week - but I know I ate a little more this week than I should have. Very frustrating week at work, and it may carry over into next week.

Will have to try and make sure it doesn't get to me so that I can make the top ten again!



WW seems to work for me. I want to be able to choose what to eat, and to be able to eat a wide variety.

Basically, WW has some kind of formula that assigns points to the food you eat, and you get a certain number of points each week, as well as some extra weekly points. All food has points except fruits and veggies, although you are encouraged to eat them you should not gorge on them. Your points are determined by your current weight and activity level. You can also gain activity points, which also can be used for extra food. The weekly and activity points reset each week.

Once a week you weigh in. You can attend meetings or follow the online program (which is what I do now, used to go to meetings) and record your weight. I like seeing the graph from when I was at my heaviest, but it has been kind of jumping around the last year and a half as I lapse, then start again, etc. Determined to keep it on a mostly downward track this time.

I journal online and keep track that way. I like that I can write it in and it determines the points and adds it up for me - I'm lazy that way.

It is alot like counting calories, but seems easier for me to put all together.
I love WW!! I just began 4 weeks ago and have dropped 5.6 pounds. I wish it was more but at least it's a loss!



This is totally ridiculous. You were accepted!



1. I wish that we had enough money that we could stop working and start doing things we love.
2. To be a my healthy weight, and feeling good and energetic!
3. To live closer to my DM and DMIL so we could help look after them - I worry when we are so far away.

The only bad thing about #3 is that we leave DS friends and excellent high school...so even if it came up I would be very torn.



So glad she got off OK!



Great suggestions. I don't diet, but if I start eating crazy stuff, I would have issues that I don't want to deal with on vacation, so I eat more, but still keep it reined it (compared to my past). I am always drinking, usually have water hanging off the lanyard around my neck.
Great idea about have some stuff ready when you get back. I never thought to do that - the "vacation" usually lasted a few more days until I had to chance to catch up on the shopping. I will make sure I have some stuff ready this time around!



I have the spare tire as well, it is almost fully deflated...but it does affect the clothes I can wear. But like you, I have heard how dangerous tummy tucks are - the worst to get and heal from, with the most complications - that as much as I would like to get one, I cannot justify the risk. I would rather be healthy and just adjust my clothes accordingly.



Make sure after you enter it everything is lined up perfectly - have them check it - altthough it sounds as though they dropped the ball on this one. Fingers crossed that nothing mucks it up this time and you get the job - it sounds as though they really want you, since they were irate about it as well.



I work out alone for the most part. I do it in my living room if I am doing Wii exercise.

At work, I go walking with a couple of coworkers, but it is sometimes hard to all find time to go out at the same time!



Can't pick one single song - have nearly 3,000 on my iPhone! Everything from musicals and Disney to pop, rock and contemporary country. Anything with a good beat will get me going. I want to set up a play list to dance to at home for exercise.

For breakfast, I usually have high-fiber oatmeal with a serving of blueberries. A couple hours of later at work, I supplement that with a cheese stick so I get some protein. That'll usually get me through the morning with just a piece of fruit for a snack.

On weekends, I usually do OK with just some fruit in the morning. Occasionally I will have something made with Egg Beaters - scrambled or omlet with veggies - or a faux Egg McMuffin made at home.



I realized the oatmeal wasn't getting me through my morning, and breaking it up, having some protein later on when I get to work, seems to work better for me. I need to eat almost as soon as I get up, I don't do welll otherwise.



Best of wishes while you are healing. Take your time. Glad it went well and you sound like you are recovering nicely. How long before you can start regular activities?



Remember that it is not always reflected on the scale...pull out the tape measure...check how your clothes fit. Keep that in mind...the scale is not the only measure. You are getting fit, feeling better. And you said hormonal rant - this is very common around this time, you might be retaining water.

Do a calorie check as well. You are very good about working out - make sure you are getting enough calories so you can maintain this level of activity so your body is not trying to conserve too much.

You always weigh more at the doctors. You are usually wearing more clothes and it is later in the day.



Maybe you should ask your primary care doctor if he can do anything, run any tests or recommend another doctor. You are being mistreated, and should go elsewhere where someone can treat you quickly and with kindness and compassion. Doctors know the best doctors around. I hope you can get this turned around quickly.

Yeh on the dress measurement! 8 is a great size! I will probably never see that again...I'd be over the moon to get to a 10 when I reach my ultimate goal.



I would suggest cheese or nuts. I love low-fat string cheese and nuts are great and really healthy for you. Or just scramble some eggs for a light post-work out snack, you could add some veggies and some cheese.



I would have loved to ice skate or do gymnastics. Never had the where withall to do that, and I inherited my dad's weak ankles (although my ankles are fine now, my knees are the issue). Equestrian would be fun as well. But we were a poor family, did not have money to throw away.

Last time was a year and a half ago. Planning to have another this summer.



Oh my gosh, I just experienced Nutella...it was sooo chocolately....I need to get it out of the house since I don't need extra calories!
We picked it up since we made something for DS's German class, and I could have ate it with a spoon (although too much would've made me sick)...licked my fingers when we were done! It was so good.

I think I will take it to work and set it out with some crackers or shortbread cookies...I will eat too much if it is in the house.

*******************************************
Need to finish up the laundry...will check back in tomorrow.

Carol

Love nutella...but I have to be careful since I can eat an entire jar..not that I have but I know it's possible!!

Curling, that is the sport that I'd try. It looks fun and easy in the Olympics

All of my appointments are up to date, my last physical was just last month and the girlie ones we in the fall.





Today was the State High School Singles tournament. Everyone bowled 2 games then they divided them into two groups and A group with the higher averages and a B group with the lower. Nick bowled well the fist 2 games and was placed in group A. Hunter did not bowl as well as usual and ended up the the B group. When all was said and done, Nick placed 6th and bowled consistantly about his average. Hunter took home the first place trophy for the B group. He bowled well above his average after those first 2 games. In fact the first game after the split he had the highest pin fall of everyone A and B. I must say it was a stressful afternoon watching them though. High School Bowling is now finished for the year with the exception of the banquet. Good thing as Lacrosse starts next Saturday.

Great job for the boys bowling!! Wow! No break before lax season begins?? So busy for you!

I love that you thought of curling! It seems like a pretty cool sport

It is so hard not to still see myself as large.

I was going to not write this, but I wanted to get it out, and I know you folks would understand.

As of today I have lost 27lbs. I weigh 138.3 pounds. A weight that I thought I would never see again. My clothes fit better, there are even times when I think I could be pretty. But most of the time I don't see the "skinny" girl, I still see the large girl who weighed 165lbs and wore nothing but sweatpants.

My mom and I were looking at dresses for the bridal shower and she said "I wish i could wear these dresses and look good" and I said "me too" and she was like "no you would look fantastic"

I don't see it. I understand that I've lost a lot of weight, and I have a desirable body type, but i still don't see it. I see all the little imperfections and the tiny bit of weight i need to still lose. I see bikini season and a cruise and me still not at my goal.

I would really just like to tell the big girl inside me to relax and embrace the new skinny girl!

Trina, I completely understand. WHen you have been one size for so long it's tough to think that you could be another smaller size AND look good!! It may take some time but I am sure you will get there Even if you are not at goal, you have lost a significant amount of weight and being proud of that accomplishment is a start! Hang in there!!

I can PM you my address if you want to come do my pantry! I actually just told DH this past week that we need to clean it out. I'll get there soon.

Haha! I'm not working on the dreaded "tupperware cabinet"....if it doesn't have a lid I am throwing it out!

Actually, I only made beef stew because I got a good deal on stew meat today. I didn't have my recipe with me & couldn't remember it since it's been so long since I've made it. Sooooo, I cheated and bought a package of beef stew seasonings. I just mixed it with water and added corn starch (mixed with water) toward the end to thicken it. It was pretty good. Even DS8 liked it. DS5 had pb&j...he looked at the stew and said, "yuck." lol.




You're raising a great kid! He is going to make an amazing husband one day!




Of course you do!




Congrats! We've done some with junky things inside and others with cool things. I really don't get why there are things to trade But, it is fun. With gas going sky high, we do less and less. But, if we go on vacation, we made sure to get a cache or two (or more if we have time). It does get funny when they are hidden in high traffic areas. Here I am looking in a bush or under a pay phone and people are just walking by staring You have to be in stealth mode all the time!

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It's 9:27 and this is the latest I've been up in the last couple of days
I have to get going and clean up some before heading to bed. Have a healthy Sunday!

Jill

Jill, sounds like geocacheing is tons of fun! I love being in stealth mode...so exciting!

Good Sunday morning everyone

Kathy Happy Birthday Michael sounds like a sweetheart. You have done a great job raising him right.

Pamela I know how it feels to have been on a schedule for so long that it feels strange not to be driving here there and everywhere. There are still weekends in Sept and Oct saying "Don't I have a marching band event I need to be at?"

trinaweena You have done a great job on your weight loss. I wish everyone who lost weight could have a total makeover by a specialist. I think it would make us feel better about ourselves.

Originally Posted by RemembertheMagic98
Saturday QOTD: On this day in 2010 ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex was relaunched as ESPN:The Weekend kicked off. What sport have you always wanted to try...regardless of age, weight, physical limitations?

Bonus PSA: When was the last time you had a physical? Just a little reminder that the journey to weight loss can be enhanced by using your doctor as an ally and not an enemy! Find a doctor you connect with and get yourself checked!


Deb I saw this question yesterday and I couldn't think of a sport that I would like to try but I aggree with you. Ds's and I have really gotten into curling during the last few Olympics and it might be one that I can do. ALso congrats on the great bowling season for the two boys.

My last physical was in October. MY last mammo was in Sept. I do need to get my eyes and teeth checked.

Judy thanks for the great question.

Jill I made beef stew a couple of weeks ago and I really enjoyed it.

Hi to who ever I missed.

I am heading to my parents house today. I am hoping to meet up with my sister and her dh so that we can discuss our trip to DW in Aug. She wants to plan another sit down meal and I don't know if I can do that. AS it is with two for the 5 days it means I can't eat at a counter serve in Epcot because both of them are in Epcot. We have one sit down with just our family before we all get together but I am not sure that I want a sit down every day. The only good thing is that most of the sit downs are planned for lunch so that I have time to digest and won't be going to bed on a full stomach.

Off to get dressed for church and grocery shopping before we leave for my parents house.

Have a happy and healthy day.

I LOVE Disney planning!! DOn't forget to give us the details you have decided upon I love that you are thinking ahead about going to bed on a full stomach...I have done that a million times at Disney...yuck!

DD does eat it with a spoon!! She's lucky she can get away with it with all of the swimming. I try NOT to have it in the house all the time though.... she would eat it for every meal!



Sounds like they both had a great day!! Congratulations to them!!

Wow.... no break in the schedule, huh?



I totally understand. I absolutely STILL cannot wrap my mind around my size. When I see folks on tv (primarily on BL finales, when you see their weight) I will see someone step on the scale and they weight 150 or 160 or even 170 and I think that is what I look like (even though I haven't been over the 130s in a long time).... but when the girls step up who weigh 129, 135, 137.... I NEVER think that I look like them..... even though DD always tells me I do.

There are times when I get dressed in the morning that I feel "fat" and I think I look chunky.... despite the fact that I have just dressed myself in size 4 pants and a size small top!! I think that is a type of body dysmorphic syndrome.

No advise on how to get past it..... just keep working on having a HEALTHY STRONG body as well as a SLIM body... and be sure your goal weight is a reasonable one!!



I was struggling to stay awake until 9pm last night, so I understand~! I felt myself fading by 8:30, but pushed through until about 9:15 when I finally gave up!



I love Disney planning! I'm jealous!! Have a fun day planning your trip and your fancy meals!

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Morning friends!

Heard from DD briefly last night and another quick text this morning. Apparently the wi-fi in their room last night wasn't quite on par and after the first two texts it wouldn't send again... and they were on lock-in already, so no heading to a common area to text. But at least she was able to get a message to me twice and I know all is good. Yesterday was horseback riding on the beach.... and she finally got to the Pacific Ocean... and today they are ziplining through the cloud forest!! Holy Cow, that sounds like FUN!

Her texts sound super excited and super happy..... food sounds good, no illnesses or sunburns mentioned, so I think it is going great.

Today DS and I will do some cleaning around here.... his room, his Lego room, and a bit of general housework downstairs. Then some grocery shopping.... not sure if I'll be alone for that or not. Then we will be ready for his mini birthday party celebration tomorrow!

Sunny and bright here today, but cold (in the 30's) and still a bit windy, but not howling like yesterday. Not sure what is up for exercise today, but it probably will NOT be outdoors!

Strange dreams about Sasquatch last night! Gotta stop watching "Finding Bigfoot" with DS!!

Coffee pot is calling!.........................P

I am uber jealous of DD!!! I want to zipline sooooo bad in Costa Rica!! It sounds like she is having a wonderful time!! I'm sure her pictures are going to be AMAZING!!!

Sasquatch!! Wow! Are you sure it wasn't Yeti from Exp. Everest??? He would at least come with a ride

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Good morning Donalds! Lazy morning here but it's at least sunny I'm meeting my friend for lunch at Applebees (at least it's WW friendly) and we are going to a "class" at Home Depot. I was supposed to go last week but I was still coughing so today it is! We are learning how to tile a backsplash. I'm excited!!

Well, I better get dressed and ready to go
Make great choices today!!