WISH Away the Pounds *~*Fabulous February Challenge*~* Everyone Welcome <3

[pjlla]

Hi everyone! I'm very excited to be joining for the first time.

I had fallen off the wagon of health eating for quite some time but got back into the swing of things in mid January. To back up a little, in '04 I had lost about 70 pounds. Long story short, I gained a lot of the weight back but fortunately not all of it. I refuse to go back to my original weight, I was just so miserable then.

Anyway, as of last week's weigh in I had a total loss of 6 pounds after two weeks of healthy eating. Oh who am I kidding, I'm scale obsessed so I weigh in pretty much every other day, sometimes every day! And therein lies one of my issues. Since about last Tuesday the scale hasn't budged.

So along with my weight loss goal for this month I'm going to try my hardest not to get discouraged at what the scale reads. I can't promise that I'll stop being scale obsessed but I have to stop being so hard on myself because it's counterproductive.

I feel very comfortable here on W.I.S.H. so I'm not shy in admitting that I'm currently at 202.5 so hopefully I'll be in onederland at 197.5 by month end. We shall see!

WELCOME! Glad to have a new face!! And I'm happy to see that you hopped right in. Feel free to introduce yourself and tell us a bit about you!

It's wonderful to see you over here. I'm joining for the first time, too. I need some serious accountability. Best of luck reaching your goals.

I'm not quite comfortable with talking about my weight yet, because it's reached a point where I am utterly embarrassed by that number, but I'll say that my goal this month is to lose 8 pounds.

Nice to meet everyone.

WOOHOO on another new face! Welcome and I'm glad you found us! Tell us a bit about you!

Hi everyone! Back in for February. I had a good January, so you'd think those last 3.6 pounds to get back to WW goal weight wouldn't seem so intimidating, and yet they are. Why are the last few always the hardest??

I got out for a 7-mile run today. It was re-entry by fire - I'd barely run since Dopey in January. I needed the rest after that challenge, but I'd have started back sooner if not for the nasty cold that knocked me out for a week. Today was a rare day here lately - 50 degrees and sunny! We get that again tomorrow before another storm tomorrow night, and colder temps on Monday. I'm so ready for this winter to be over. That groundhog and I are going to have a serious chat tomorrow morning...

But the run put me back on track for my next half marathon, which is the Rock 'n' Roll Half USA in DC, a local one for me!

I was shocked at how much weight I'd put on by the time I got through a December vacation, the holidays, and DH's and my trip to WDW in January for Dopey. I couldn't zip up my jeans, and I was feeling really badly about that even while I had this great feeling of accomplishment from completing Dopey. So I just buckled down with WW and exercise (stationary bike while I wasn't running) and was really meticulous about tracking - everything. And it worked!

But I know what happens after staying that hardcore on plan - after several weeks, I start to slip and slide a bit, and a bit more...and so I know that this is the point when I need to pay attention to that and work in some treats to keep my sweet tooth and indulgent side happy while still staying on plan back to my WW goal. SO close, and yet so far. Ultimately, I want to be solidly back to goal before we go on our spring break trip with DDs to WDW! And then maintain, maintain, maintain.

So glad you are recommitted and back here with us!

Go, Lisa! You're going to rock the Princess! I know that feeling of training well and gaining at the same time all too well. I think it's just part of the long distance thing. Just think how terrifically strong and in shape you are - the rest will follow! I totally agree about more daylight helping, too. I just feel better and happier when we get those light hours back. I can't wait to hear about your Princess run!

XO
Liz

Liz, glad you are here with us again for February!

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

Okay....now I'm REALLY caught up! And breakfast was delicious! Just going to finish up my grapefruit and coffee and get moving! It has been a lazy morning!..................P

 

[willonlyflytodisney]

Good morning, everyone! Welcome to all our newcomers and so great to see people from the January thread!

This weekend has been FILLED with opportunities for bad food choices haha But, I do feel a change in myself. Yesterday, I didn't get to eat dinner before the show, so when all went out to dinner, I split stuffed mushrooms and a pear and walnut salad with my friend. It felt so great to enjoy a meal with everyone else, while not having to worry about regretting it tomorrow. Today, I'm going to a super bowl party where they are doing make your own tacos. So, I'm bringing my own whole wheat tortillas and light cheese. I'll be coming early so I don't feel like that weirdo who brings her own food to a party, but I'm comfortable doing it because I'll be able to relax and eat.



Happy Groundhog Day! Damn Phil predicted 6 more weeks of winter, so there goes that dream that I won't need to buy a space heater this year. LOL Though, I will say, it has been in the 40s in my apartment, which means it is WARM - like actually, truly, need to take off my blanket WARM! It is definitely helping me get over my cold. Though, it is supposed to snow tomorrow, Saturday, AND next Monday. Yeesh.

It is also Hedgehog Day - yup, the Romans used to have Groundhog day, too, but they used Hedgehogs! It is also National Girls and Women in Sports day, so do something athletic today!

Tomorrow is Elmo's Birthday! That little red, furry muppet from Sesame Street turns 3 and a half... again

Hi everyone! Back in for February. I had a good January, so you'd think those last 3.6 pounds to get back to WW goal weight wouldn't seem so intimidating, and yet they are. Why are the last few always the hardest??

I can only imagine! You will definitely do it, though! You got this!

I'm so ready for this winter to be over. That groundhog and I are going to have a serious chat tomorrow morning...

I'd like to give him a piece of my mind, too!

It must be the age.... DD loves that show as well (although I admit, I'm over it). Do you have a wedding Pinterest board as well???
[/QUOTE

HAHA! I think once I get married, I won't be interested in the show. Its more of an aspiration for me, I think. NO, I do NOT have a wedding Pinterest board hahaha I don't even have a boyfriend

But, my mother always jokes about how I have all these ideas in my head, that I really just need the groom

Buy yourself a pretty flower or a bottle of nail polish or a good book.... or splurge on some TIME for yourself.... take a long bath with a good book and a small glass of wine. We'll have to do some more chatting about non-edible Valentine's gifts soon!

Great idea!

Ooooohhh.. I know... I'm going to make a change-it-up breakfast bowl! I have some leftover sweet potatoes from last night's dinner! YUM!

What's a change-it-up breakfast?! Sounds delicious!

 

[Rose&Mike]

This weekend has been FILLED with opportunities for bad food choices haha But, I do feel a change in myself. Yesterday, I didn't get to eat dinner before the show, so when all went out to dinner, I split stuffed mushrooms and a pear and walnut salad with my friend. It felt so great to enjoy a meal with everyone else, while not having to worry about regretting it tomorrow. Today, I'm going to a super bowl party where they are doing make your own tacos. So, I'm bringing my own whole wheat tortillas and light cheese. I'll be coming early so I don't feel like that weirdo who brings her own food to a party, but I'm comfortable doing it because I'll be able to relax and eat.



Happy Groundhog Day! Damn Phil predicted 6 more weeks of winter, so there goes that dream that I won't need to buy a space heater this year. LOL Though, I will say, it has been in the 40s in my apartment, which means it is WARM - like actually, truly, need to take off my blanket WARM! It is definitely helping me get over my cold. Though, it is supposed to snow tomorrow, Saturday, AND next Monday. Yeesh.

ok, I am the weirdo who brings all her own food everywhere. But I have to. I no longer care what anyone else thinks. I think as long as you don't make a big deal about it, no one will even notice.

And did you mean the inside of your apartment was in the 40s. Holy crud! We keep our apartment cool (mid 60s) and our room gets very cool sometimes (upper 50s) but I sleep better in a cool room. But I cannot even imagine functioning day in day out in 40 degree temps inside. I would so be buying a space heater and the manager would have grown to dread my name by now. I hope it gets fixed soon!

****
Wanted to share--yesterday I thumb tacked my favorite size 4 jeans to the wall in our room as inspiration to stay on track. I feel motivated every time I see them.

Hit the Y, ate breakfast, ordered new running shoes , and now not sure what else we are going to do today. It is a lazy day.

And stupid groundhog! We are getting 2-5 inches of snow tonight. Boo!

Have a great Sunday!
Make healthy food choices, and if you splurge jump right back on track tomorrow.

 

[pjlla]

Good morning, everyone! Welcome to all our newcomers and so great to see people from the January thread!

This weekend has been FILLED with opportunities for bad food choices haha But, I do feel a change in myself. Yesterday, I didn't get to eat dinner before the show, so when all went out to dinner, I split stuffed mushrooms and a pear and walnut salad with my friend. It felt so great to enjoy a meal with everyone else, while not having to worry about regretting it tomorrow. Today, I'm going to a super bowl party where they are doing make your own tacos. So, I'm bringing my own whole wheat tortillas and light cheese. I'll be coming early so I don't feel like that weirdo who brings her own food to a party, but I'm comfortable doing it because I'll be able to relax and eat.

Wow! You are making some great strides.... and don't feel like the "weirdo" when you bring your own foods. No one would fault you if you had a bad food allergy or had to eat GF. This is just as important.... and probably no one else will actually notice!


Happy Groundhog Day! Damn Phil predicted 6 more weeks of winter, so there goes that dream that I won't need to buy a space heater this year. LOL Though, I will say, it has been in the 40s in my apartment, which means it is WARM - like actually, truly, need to take off my blanket WARM! It is definitely helping me get over my cold. Though, it is supposed to snow tomorrow, Saturday, AND next Monday. Yeesh.

Dang! I didn't see that! Frustrating because I (as usual) am so DONE with the winter!

It is also Hedgehog Day - yup, the Romans used to have Groundhog day, too, but they used Hedgehogs! It is also National Girls and Women in Sports day, so do something athletic today!

Wonderful idea!

HAHA! I think once I get married, I won't be interested in the show. Its more of an aspiration for me, I think. NO, I do NOT have a wedding Pinterest board hahaha I don't even have a boyfriend

Neither does my DD, but that doesn't stop her from dreaming!

What's a change-it-up breakfast?! Sounds delicious!

Here's a link to the recipe thread where I have it posted!

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2447512&page=9

And here is a link to the specific post......

http://disboards.com/showpost.php?p=47783954&postcount=127

ok, I am the weirdo who brings all her own food everywhere. But I have to. I no longer care what anyone else thinks. I think as long as you don't make a big deal about it, no one will even notice.



And did you mean the inside of your apartment was in the 40s. Holy crud! We keep our apartment cool (mid 60s) and our room gets very cool sometimes (upper 50s) but I sleep better in a cool room. But I cannot even imagine functioning day in day out in 40 degree temps inside. I would so be buying a space heater and the manager would have grown to dread my name by now. I hope it gets fixed soon!

ME TOO!!


****
Wanted to share--yesterday I thumb tacked my favorite size 4 jeans to the wall in our room as inspiration to stay on track. I feel motivated every time I see them.

I heard an idea like that at my WW meeting last week... and the second part of the idea was to put a dollar bill in the pocket every time you did a workout... by the time you fit in the jeans, you'll have a tidy little sum to buy something special to go with it!

Hit the Y, ate breakfast, ordered new running shoes , and now not sure what else we are going to do today. It is a lazy day.

And stupid groundhog! We are getting 2-5 inches of snow tonight. Boo!

Have a great Sunday!
Make healthy food choices, and if you splurge jump right back on track tomorrow.

Love a good lazy day! ENJOY!!

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

Okay friends.... I'm in the middle of a very messy closet clean out and I have to move two of the shelves.... and of COURSE, that is when DH informs me that BOTH of his drills are at the high school (the robotics team is using them) I dug around in the garage and came up with an old drill plus battery and charger and hopefully can find a drill bit somewhere! In the meantime I"m sorting through all of the boxes and bins, throwing out the dried up glue and paint, broken pencils, etc and condensing the boxes down so that I can make due with at least one less shelf. I SWEAR it was like the stuff expanded exponentially when I removed it from the closet.... who knew that a small closet could have SO MUCH STUFF in it! Kind of like a clown car!!

BBL to chat...............P

 

[StarGirl11]

Hi joining in this month! Wanting a way to monitor my weight loss in my last month pre-op.

Yeah this girly is having bariatric surgery the 24th of February. After years of struggling with traditional diets I'm throwing in the towel so to speak with that front and getting the surgery. Nervous, excited, and a bit stressed if we go by the fact I spent six minutes crying last night over the fact that my racing headphones are currently in an unknown location (well mostly unknown they are either at a FedEx office or at Sony and I can't find out which until tomorrow or if the new ones are on their way). Really after a year of preparation for this you would think I would be set mentally but there is still some stressors even when you been prepping for this darn long.

I have a 10k at the end of the month, two days pre-operation. Last race before the surgery. And last chance to get a better corral placement for Dumbo before I'm laid up for a few weeks (not in the literal sense, I can still walk I just probably won't be able to run for a few weeks. This will probably start driving me nuts after a couple of weeks).

Not surprised at all at Phil's prediction. Saw that one coming when I saw the Weather Channel's forecast for my area yesterday. We are supposed to get another four straight days of snow next week. Lovely! Did I mention that we just had three straight days? And that for where I live this much snow in February is not what I'm used to. Oh and on top of that we're supposed to have lows in the singles/negatives? Yeah I am loving this weather.

Anyways 8 days until I say goodbye to solids for 4 weeks (I have to drink liquids pre-op. I'm only allowed one protein bar a day before surgery on the liquid diet). That's going to be fun,

 

[Friend of a Mouse]

Hello all!

Since we don't have a coach yet I thought I would start off this month with a QOTD for us!

QOTD Sat 2/1 It is a new month and we are still at the beginning of the year! What did do really well with last month? What did you struggle with? What are you going to do to ensure a successful month (and year) ahead?

Don't forget to PM you initial weigh-in AND your goal (of pounds to lose)!

Last month I started really strong and had two good fist weeks, which is longer than I have been able to do in the past. I allowed the stress of my job to get to me and then ended up falling off of the wagon, but I am roud of what I did accomplish .I have cooked more than I did in a long time, have not eaten out as much, and have stayed mostly vegetarian (falling off within the last week or so).

My job is just so stressful and right now we have an issue of a principal at one of my schools pitting us against our central office. Things are going to reach a breaking point soon, and part of me just wants to get that over with, while the other part is dreading it. I have never been so burnt out before. This month I am renewing my commitment. Tomorrow starts my new week. I will not eat out (including coffee) more than 3 times in one week and I will eat vegetarian. I can do this! I will also recommit to my workout routine. I have a 5k in 2 weeks and am not anywhere close to ready.

 

[Kachina]

WOOHOO on another new face! Welcome and I'm glad you found us! Tell us a bit about you!

Female, 39 (hitting the big 4-0 this december), army brat, army veteran, reTIRED truck driver, married, no kids, cancer survivor, rosarian, naturalist. We live in western Montana's Bitterroot Valley on a ten acre hobby farm. Cows, chickens, garden ... all that stuff. I used to dream about all this when I was trucking, and now I finally get to live it. Life is good!

Hubs is a nuclear pharmacist and is currently in the middle of two sets of chemo treatments for Lymphoma. The death grip I have on planning our upcoming Disney trip in December is what is keeping me sane right now. I also enjoy reading the forums as an escape from reality when things get heavy.

Nice to meet y'all.

Hi joining in this month! Wanting a way to monitor my weight loss in my last month pre-op.

Best of luck with your surgery. I hope it brings you the results you're looking for.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Jill--hope Elton John was fun! I can't believe how cheap those tickets were! Concerts have gotten so expensive.

I'm in again for the month. Everything was hard for me! I'm trying to quite diet soda and I think it's like quitting smoking where you turn to food. The loss of that sweet treat is making me look for something else to satisfy me!

I gave up diet soda cold turkey at the end of December 2009 after being an 'addict' for over 20 years. I still occasionally crave it, but I have not given in even once. I eat so poorly when I drink it and I can never have just one. Now if I want caffeine I have a little bit of plain coke (very rarely) or black coffee or unsweet tea. I could not just have a little diet soda, it always quickly spiraled into multiple sodas a day. Anyhow, I truly believe it was one of the best things I have ever done for my health. Good luck!

Anyway, as of last week's weigh in I had a total loss of 6 pounds after two weeks of healthy eating. Oh who am I kidding, I'm scale obsessed so I weigh in pretty much every other day, sometimes every day! And therein lies one of my issues. Since about last Tuesday the scale hasn't budged.

So along with my weight loss goal for this month I'm going to try my hardest not to get discouraged at what the scale reads. I can't promise that I'll stop being scale obsessed but I have to stop being so hard on myself because it's counterproductive.

I feel very comfortable here on W.I.S.H. so I'm not shy in admitting that I'm currently at 202.5 so hopefully I'll be in onederland at 197.5 by month end. We shall see!

I think there are many schools of thought on weighing every day. I weigh every day, because it keeps me honest. It also helps me to see patterns. I have recorded my daily weight since Jan 10. I don't obsess anymore, but try to just look at it as a tool to help me reach my goals--in this case to get back into my skinny jeans. If you can let go of the need to be hard on yourself and just look at it as a picture of where you are at right at that moment, I don't think it's bad to weigh everyday. If it stresses you out, then I would definitely cut back.

Very exciting about being so close to 'one'derland!

Wowza! How did I MISS the fact that it is now February??? I came on here this morning searching for the January thread and then realized it is time to move my chatter to FEBRUARY!! Silly me! Well anyhow, here I am, ready to gab and chat and laugh and share! Off to read and reply............P

I was so glad to see January end. Definitely ready for February.

*****
We got 4-6 inches of snow overnight. Woohoo! Where is the sarcastic smiley? At least it is not as cold. Trying to decide if I am going to work this morning or not. Sooner or later this weather pattern will break and we will get back to more normal temps.

Have a great Monday!

 

[bigsis1970]

Hi everyone - I'm back again for another month of Fun while losing!

Pam thanks for the info .. I spent the weekend planning and i've decided that since I can have 26 points I'll also make that equal 26ish carbs.. some things like chicken have no carbs but will have points and something things that I have to count the carbs on - Veggies - will not have points.. I will continue at the gym 3 days a week with one day being my Zumba class and I have also joined an Arms and Abs 28 day challenge with some of my facebook friends that I do at home even on gym days.. Today is day 3!

If you still need a coach I can do it a Mon - Friday? just let me know when.. I just don't have a computer at home so it'shard to do it on my phone that I just wait till Monday to get back on here..

Welcome to the new faces and Hey glad to see you again to our "veterans"

be back at lunch time!! Michelle

 

[willonlyflytodisney]

Morning, all!

First off - do we have an update on a coach? I'm happy to step in if we need one!

I pigged out a little bit last night at my Super Bowl party. It was probably from my boredom with the game haha. Wasn't rooting for either team and the Seahawks creamed them so bad, that after awhile, it wasn't fun watching anymore haha But, filled up on grapes and used my own food, so it wasn't too bad.

This is my 5th week of Power 90, and I've been slowly amping up the workouts each week - this week's amp up is to do "real" push-ups instead of "girl" push-ups on my knees. I haven't had a lot of change in my arms compared to the rest of my body, and I think this is why. Let me tell you, my arms were on FIRE!! There was very little cheering at the game yesterday because I couldn't raise my arms all the way LOL But, I do feel good in my progress - one year ago, I could barely do a girl pushup!

I'm enjoying the snow - as it means it is warm enough to snow My apartment is still nice and warm - we'll see how long it lasts!

Tomorrow is National Homemade Soup Day! It will surely be cold enough to make some! Yum! It is also Thank a Mailman Day, so be sure to thank yours for trekking through the snow this winter to get you your mail!

Hope everyone is starting February with a bang!

ok, I am the weirdo who brings all her own food everywhere. But I have to. I no longer care what anyone else thinks. I think as long as you don't make a big deal about it, no one will even notice.

You are so right! The host was a vegetarian, so she had to make her own food, anyway. Honestly, I don't think anyone even noticed! It was cool!

And did you mean the inside of your apartment was in the 40s. Holy crud! We keep our apartment cool (mid 60s) and our room gets very cool sometimes (upper 50s) but I sleep better in a cool room. But I cannot even imagine functioning day in day out in 40 degree temps inside. I would so be buying a space heater and the manager would have grown to dread my name by now. I hope it gets fixed soon!

OMG! Totally misspoke! I meant that it was in the 40s outside, which means that the heat was on full blast in my apartment - making it about 75!! Sorry for not being clear! HAHA Essentially, when the weather gets below 20, its about 45 in the apartment, and that's when I have a problem.

Wanted to share--yesterday I thumb tacked my favorite size 4 jeans to the wall in our room as inspiration to stay on track. I feel motivated every time I see them.

What an awesome idea! I was thinking about where the next place I want to travel to was - you know, like a year from now - and there are so many places I want to go, but I want to make it somewhere warm, so I can use it as my goal to get into shape for a bathing suit. So, maybe I'll pin a picture of a bathing suit!!

Here's a link to the recipe thread where I have it posted!

http://disboards.com/showthread.php?t=2447512&page=9

Looks delicious!!!

Hi joining in this month! Wanting a way to monitor my weight loss in my last month pre-op.

Sending you good vibes for your race, and for your surgery. I hope it brings you everything you are looking for and more.

This month I am renewing my commitment. Tomorrow starts my new week. I will not eat out (including coffee) more than 3 times in one week and I will eat vegetarian. I can do this! I will also recommit to my workout routine. I have a 5k in 2 weeks and am not anywhere close to ready.

WTG! Good for you making new goals! And that's awesome that you have a 5k coming up! I'm sure you will do great!

Female, 39 (hitting the big 4-0 this december), army brat, army veteran, reTIRED truck driver, married, no kids, cancer survivor, rosarian, naturalist. We live in western Montana's Bitterroot Valley on a ten acre hobby farm. Cows, chickens, garden ... all that stuff. I used to dream about all this when I was trucking, and now I finally get to live it. Life is good!

Sounds like you've been through quite a lot! I'm totally inspired by how optimistic you are on life! Congrats on living in Montana! When I was there this past summer, I was amazed at how BLUE the sky was. You must love it!

We got 4-6 inches of snow overnight. Woohoo! Where is the sarcastic smiley?

Maybe this guy?

 

[pjlla]

Hi joining in this month! Wanting a way to monitor my weight loss in my last month pre-op.

Yeah this girly is having bariatric surgery the 24th of February. After years of struggling with traditional diets I'm throwing in the towel so to speak with that front and getting the surgery. Nervous, excited, and a bit stressed if we go by the fact I spent six minutes crying last night over the fact that my racing headphones are currently in an unknown location (well mostly unknown they are either at a FedEx office or at Sony and I can't find out which until tomorrow or if the new ones are on their way). Really after a year of preparation for this you would think I would be set mentally but there is still some stressors even when you been prepping for this darn long.

I have a 10k at the end of the month, two days pre-operation. Last race before the surgery. And last chance to get a better corral placement for Dumbo before I'm laid up for a few weeks (not in the literal sense, I can still walk I just probably won't be able to run for a few weeks. This will probably start driving me nuts after a couple of weeks).

Not surprised at all at Phil's prediction. Saw that one coming when I saw the Weather Channel's forecast for my area yesterday. We are supposed to get another four straight days of snow next week. Lovely! Did I mention that we just had three straight days? And that for where I live this much snow in February is not what I'm used to. Oh and on top of that we're supposed to have lows in the singles/negatives? Yeah I am loving this weather.

Anyways 8 days until I say goodbye to solids for 4 weeks (I have to drink liquids pre-op. I'm only allowed one protein bar a day before surgery on the liquid diet). That's going to be fun,

Welcome to our group! Thoughts and prayers as you head into surgery next week!

Last month I started really strong and had two good fist weeks, which is longer than I have been able to do in the past. I allowed the stress of my job to get to me and then ended up falling off of the wagon, but I am roud of what I did accomplish .I have cooked more than I did in a long time, have not eaten out as much, and have stayed mostly vegetarian (falling off within the last week or so).

My job is just so stressful and right now we have an issue of a principal at one of my schools pitting us against our central office. Things are going to reach a breaking point soon, and part of me just wants to get that over with, while the other part is dreading it. I have never been so burnt out before. This month I am renewing my commitment. Tomorrow starts my new week. I will not eat out (including coffee) more than 3 times in one week and I will eat vegetarian. I can do this! I will also recommit to my workout routine. I have a 5k in 2 weeks and am not anywhere close to ready.

Good job on recommitting for February!

Female, 39 (hitting the big 4-0 this december), army brat, army veteran, reTIRED truck driver, married, no kids, cancer survivor, rosarian, naturalist. We live in western Montana's Bitterroot Valley on a ten acre hobby farm. Cows, chickens, garden ... all that stuff. I used to dream about all this when I was trucking, and now I finally get to live it. Life is good!

Hubs is a nuclear pharmacist and is currently in the middle of two sets of chemo treatments for Lymphoma. The death grip I have on planning our upcoming Disney trip in December is what is keeping me sane right now. I also enjoy reading the forums as an escape from reality when things get heavy.

Prayers for your husband's recovery.

Nice to meet you! Tell us a bit more about yourself and your "healthier living" journey!

I gave up diet soda cold turkey at the end of December 2009 after being an 'addict' for over 20 years. I still occasionally crave it, but I have not given in even once. I eat so poorly when I drink it and I can never have just one. Now if I want caffeine I have a little bit of plain coke (very rarely) or black coffee or unsweet tea. I could not just have a little diet soda, it always quickly spiraled into multiple sodas a day. Anyhow, I truly believe it was one of the best things I have ever done for my health. Good luck!

You are right... it is a HUGE step in the right direction for health!

I think there are many schools of thought on weighing every day. I weigh every day, because it keeps me honest. It also helps me to see patterns. I have recorded my daily weight since Jan 10. I don't obsess anymore, but try to just look at it as a tool to help me reach my goals--in this case to get back into my skinny jeans. If you can let go of the need to be hard on yourself and just look at it as a picture of where you are at right at that moment, I don't think it's bad to weigh everyday. If it stresses you out, then I would definitely cut back.

Well put.

I was so glad to see January end. Definitely ready for February.

Guess it just crept up on me!

*****
We got 4-6 inches of snow overnight. Woohoo! Where is the sarcastic smiley? At least it is not as cold. Trying to decide if I am going to work this morning or not. Sooner or later this weather pattern will break and we will get back to more normal temps.

Have a great Monday!

We are in the path of 8-10 inches on Wednesday.... not looking forward to it, but at least it shouldn't impact my WW meeting tomorrow night..... and it might get DS another day off from school!

Hi everyone - I'm back again for another month of Fun while losing!

Pam thanks for the info .. I spent the weekend planning and i've decided that since I can have 26 points I'll also make that equal 26ish carbs.. some things like chicken have no carbs but will have points and something things that I have to count the carbs on - Veggies - will not have points.. I will continue at the gym 3 days a week with one day being my Zumba class and I have also joined an Arms and Abs 28 day challenge with some of my facebook friends that I do at home even on gym days.. Today is day 3!

You are going to ROCK February!!

If you still need a coach I can do it a Mon - Friday? just let me know when.. I just don't have a computer at home so it'shard to do it on my phone that I just wait till Monday to get back on here..

Welcome to the new faces and Hey glad to see you again to our "veterans"

be back at lunch time!! Michelle

Morning, all!

First off - do we have an update on a coach? I'm happy to step in if we need one!

I pigged out a little bit last night at my Super Bowl party. It was probably from my boredom with the game haha. Wasn't rooting for either team and the Seahawks creamed them so bad, that after awhile, it wasn't fun watching anymore haha But, filled up on grapes and used my own food, so it wasn't too bad.

Glad you were able to make some good choices!

This is my 5th week of Power 90, and I've been slowly amping up the workouts each week - this week's amp up is to do "real" push-ups instead of "girl" push-ups on my knees. I haven't had a lot of change in my arms compared to the rest of my body, and I think this is why. Let me tell you, my arms were on FIRE!! There was very little cheering at the game yesterday because I couldn't raise my arms all the way LOL But, I do feel good in my progress - one year ago, I could barely do a girl pushup!

That is a big accomplishment!

I'm enjoying the snow - as it means it is warm enough to snow My apartment is still nice and warm - we'll see how long it lasts!



Tomorrow is National Homemade Soup Day! It will surely be cold enough to make some! Yum! It is also Thank a Mailman Day, so be sure to thank yours for trekking through the snow this winter to get you your mail!

Wow.... I make soup SO OFTEN this time of year, but doesn't it figure it isn't on the menu for tomorrow.... maybe I'll have to change that! We keep our mailbox well shoveled, so the mailman should be happy.


OMG! Totally misspoke! I meant that it was in the 40s outside, which means that the heat was on full blast in my apartment - making it about 75!! Sorry for not being clear! HAHA Essentially, when the weather gets below 20, its about 45 in the apartment, and that's when I have a problem.

Fingers crossed the the most BITTER of winter temps has now passed for the season.


Looks delicious!!!

Yesterday's was sweet potato, onion, and egg whites.

Hope today is wonderful!!

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

Morning (nearly noon) all! I am home today with a stiff neck and sore throat. It isn't terrible but I did say no to work because I slept so poorly. Feeling some guilt about that, since the $$ would be nice and I am anticipating a snow day on Wednesday, but I think ONE DAY at home will heal me faster in the long run. Plus I'll do some WW work and get paid for a few hours at least.

Not much to share today.... no big projects today, no exercise on the plan... trying to rest and drink tea and heal so I don't get a full-blown cold or strep.

Wish the LUNCH FAIRY were here.... I'm hungry and don't feel like getting up! oh well...........................P

 

[bigsis1970]

Thanks P I am hoping to rock! I am a volume eater so I will load up on the veggies and salads..
Hope you feel better soon.. DS was sick last week (well so was DD but she was at Dad's) from Thurs - with a fever - till Sat then it broke but sore throat, croupy cough and just general not feeling well .. a bit better on sunday - well enough to head to his GF's house I wish I was looking forward to a snow day - but I am sure we'll be treking into work as it's not supposed to start till later Am but we'll be driving home in the crud! I am hopefully though that DS 8:30pm Hockey game will be cancelled.. UGH .. Hubs just texted me he feels cruddy like the start of what DS had.. Ooo boy.. round two of playing Nurse.. good thing I am making Zuppa Soup tonight for dinner!

 

[Deffenm]

I would like to join please. I did so well over the summer and lost 40 pounds. I am sure I have gained it all back. I will PM my weight tomorrow once I know what it is, I am afraid to see.

I have a lot to lose and I know what to do but for some reason I lose motivation. I also struggle with time. I work full time, have 3 kids, plus husband and dog. I am afraid if I don't make the time to exercise and make it a priority for me to get healthy, time won't matter because I won't be around for my family.

How does everyone balance family, job, and finding time to exercise?

I do really well with drinking water, because that is all I drink. I need to watch my portion control and I need to exercise!

I look forward to getting to know everyone and hopefully will be inspired to do what I NEED to do!

 

[50sjayne]

Well a new month. Set my goal pretty low for the month but knowing how much I struggled just to lose 2 pounds last month it seems right. I'm actually down 6 pounds since I started a week before January so doing pretty good over all. My scale's been behaving much better with new batteries also.

I am so crampy and bleeding today I don't even want to work out--I think I'll go sit in the jacuzzi again and just ride my bike to work. The guy at the gym seemed to have gotten the message last time I was there and even brought his wife to work out last time (that's never happened) so I'm really glad about that but I still don't really feel like running into him today.
Watched Gone with the wind Sat night that was cool watching it on our big HD tv and thoroughly enjoyed kitten and puppy bowl last night when I got off work lol.
That's a good tip about the almonds-- I can easily put them in my gym backpack so I can eat 'em right after a work out. I then will go sit in the jacuzzi a good 1/2 hour at least and then take a long shower so that's a good solution.

 

[happysummer]

Hi Everyone

I am trying to get back on track this month. I am so sick of winter I am done with living in a cold climate.
Anyone else eat more in winter?
I am exercising 5 days a week but need to up the endurance.

Good luck everyone with eating healthy and exercising this week.

 

[pjlla]

Thanks P I am hoping to rock! I am a volume eater so I will load up on the veggies and salads..
Hope you feel better soon.. DS was sick last week (well so was DD but she was at Dad's) from Thurs - with a fever - till Sat then it broke but sore throat, croupy cough and just general not feeling well .. a bit better on sunday - well enough to head to his GF's house I wish I was looking forward to a snow day - but I am sure we'll be treking into work as it's not supposed to start till later Am but we'll be driving home in the crud! I am hopefully though that DS 8:30pm Hockey game will be cancelled.. UGH .. Hubs just texted me he feels cruddy like the start of what DS had.. Ooo boy.. round two of playing Nurse.. good thing I am making Zuppa Soup tonight for dinner!

I was taking another look at your Zuppa soup recipe. I think I'll print it, make a few modifications to fit us, and try it next week! Sounds so YUM on a cold night!

Hope everyone in your house is mending!

For volume low carb/SS foods, how about roasting veggies and/or making baked veggie chips?

BTW, have you ever seen the Breyer's low carb ice cream? It comes in vanilla and chocolate. Sure, it isn't exactly HEALTH food.... but if you are looking for an occasional splurge food, it is great. I can only seem to find it at Market Basket though. You would have to count it as part of your 7 daily PPV while on SS, but honestly, it is worth it. I find it tastier than its "low fat" counterparts and not any worse as far as PPV goes.

I would like to join please. I did so well over the summer and lost 40 pounds. I am sure I have gained it all back. I will PM my weight tomorrow once I know what it is, I am afraid to see.

I have a lot to lose and I know what to do but for some reason I lose motivation. I also struggle with time. I work full time, have 3 kids, plus husband and dog. I am afraid if I don't make the time to exercise and make it a priority for me to get healthy, time won't matter because I won't be around for my family.

How does everyone balance family, job, and finding time to exercise?

I do really well with drinking water, because that is all I drink. I need to watch my portion control and I need to exercise!

I look forward to getting to know everyone and hopefully will be inspired to do what I NEED to do!

WELCOME to the group! Take a minute to read page #1 of the thread to see how things usually roll around here and then take a minute to introduce yourself.

How do we balance it all?? Well...... for me.... I do a lot, but I don't do it all WELL. The house could be cleaner, the meals could be fancier.... but it is about balance. When exercise is the priority, I find a way to fit it in, even if it means a 4-5 am alarm in the dark (I'm a morning person, so this is a better option for me than 8-9 pm). My life is not NEARLY as busy this year as it had been the last few years (oldest DD is off to college), but when it was busier, I fit things in with every available minute.... made grocery lists and menu plans on my lunch hour, took a walk during my planning period (I'm a substitute teacher), did batch/bulk cooking when I could, made phone calls during long commutes (made appointments, talked with my mom, etc), brought work with me to the pool deck (to complete while I waited for DD), etc.

You will find a way, if it is important to you.

Well a new month. Set my goal pretty low for the month but knowing how much I struggled just to lose 2 pounds last month it seems right. I'm actually down 6 pounds since I started a week before January so doing pretty good over all. My scale's been behaving much better with new batteries also.

Hoping the the new battery that mine got helps as well!!

I am so crampy and bleeding today I don't even want to work out--I think I'll go sit in the jacuzzi again and just ride my bike to work. The guy at the gym seemed to have gotten the message last time I was there and even brought his wife to work out last time (that's never happened) so I'm really glad about that but I still don't really feel like running into him today.
Watched Gone with the wind Sat night that was cool watching it on our big HD tv and thoroughly enjoyed kitten and puppy bowl last night when I got off work lol.
That's a good tip about the almonds-- I can easily put them in my gym backpack so I can eat 'em right after a work out. I then will go sit in the jacuzzi a good 1/2 hour at least and then take a long shower so that's a good solution.

I haven't watched GWTW in ages! Maybe I'll track it down tonight and watch just a bit!

Hi Everyone
I am trying to get back on track this month. I am so sick of winter I am done with living in a cold climate.
Anyone else eat more in winter?
I am exercising 5 days a week but need to up the endurance.

Good luck everyone with eating healthy and exercising this week.

Not that I necessarily want to eat MORE.... but what I crave isn't as "light" or healthy as my spring and summer choices. This time of year I want CARBS... pasta, rice, potatoes, toast, oatmeal! Roasted carrots, although delicious, aren't exactly a great substitute for oatmeal!

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

Evening all! Enjoying a cup of tea while I try to decide what to eat for dinner. The men had meatball subs, but I don't care for meatballs (so NOT worth the calories). I do have some veggie meatballs and I may warm those up... still thinking about it. The vegetable bin is looking pretty empty, so I'm not sure what I will have for a side.... I used up all of the red peppers for tomorrow night's dinner... other than that I have some aging celery and some onions. I had a HUGE serving of carrots at lunchtime and a LOT of veggies in my chili, so perhaps I shouldn't worry too much tonight... but I don't want to end up hungry.

Anyhow, I've drained my cup of (decaf) green tea, so it is time to think about warming some supper. I'll be back in the morning if I don't get called to sub (I will say yes probably if they do call because I feel better ).......P

 

[jillbur]

How does everyone balance family, job, and finding time to exercise?

I look forward to getting to know everyone and hopefully will be inspired to do what I NEED to do!

Let's see...I used to feel guilty working out when I could be cooking dinner, doing laundry, cleaning, helping with homework, or playing with the kids. Then I realized that working out made me such a better mom! I have more energy and more patience for any arguing (sons are 10 & 7). I work full time and work out right after work. Luckily, DH works midnight 12 hour shifts Fri, Sat, and Sun nights so he is here to get the kids from school and get them started on homework. When I get home from the gym, DH and I make dinner then rush off to whatever activity the kids have that night, if they have anything. On the weekends, I get up first thing and workout.

How old are your kids? Mine are old enough now to leave while DH is home sleeping on the weekends, so I can go to the gym or out for a walk/run while they veg out. Soccer is starting back up, though, so I have to rearrange my weekend schedule next month.

I lack motivation some days, but I try to remember that I've never felt terrible after a workout. I've never finished a workout and thought, "well, that was a waste of time." I always feel great and it keeps me going. Sticking to a routine helps a lot, too. I would look at your schedule and try to schedule in any time you can find. Take a 10 minute walk, do sit ups, push ups, and lunges while watching tv, etc. If you can squeeze in smaller times instead of a full hour, it's better than nothing

Hi Everyone

I am trying to get back on track this month. I am so sick of winter I am done with living in a cold climate.
Anyone else eat more in winter?
I am exercising 5 days a week but need to up the endurance.

Good luck everyone with eating healthy and exercising this week.

I agree with Pamela (pjlla). I don't necessarily eat more, but I crave warm carbs. I want breads, pizza, and pastas instead of a cold salad. Tracking calories helps me stay on track. I'll look at something that I think looks so yummy and look at the calories. Sometimes it's worth it and sometimes it's not. Today I really wanted a pepperoni roll. It's carby and warm and yummy...but 440 calories was not worth it at all!


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

Welcome to all the new friends and hello to all the old ones

Pamela~I hope you're feeling better!

ELTON JOHN ROCKS! He put on the best concert ever. He came out at 8 and played until 10:38, no intermission. And, he sounded great. Some people don't sound as good live, but he was amazing. Our seats were pretty good for last minute and behind & to the side of the stage. A black curtain blocked the very back of the stage, but we had a perfect view of the band and Elton. He also turned and waved to us a ton I have to say that before we got the last minute released tickets, I would never think of paying $100 or more for a ticket to see anyone. But, after that concert, I would pay it in a heartbeat to see him again.

I thought February would be a bit more normal with school and the weather, but I'm not so sure now. January was terrible with the polar vortex stuff and the cancellations and 2 hour delays. My students were bonkers and we really just need to get back to a routine. But, now we have another winter storm coming tomorrow evening. I am hoping we don't get 8 inches of snow so we can actually have a full week of school days this week (no delays, no cancellations). It would be the first since Christmas (oops...winter) break. I actually don't mind a couple inches of snow...just not 8!

DS10 just got back from his drum lesson, so I am off to get the kids ready for bed and get organized for tomorrow. Have a good evening.

Jill

 

[araes2102]

THANK YOU everyone for all the kind words... buth for my sister (who says she is doing better) and for my pics

I would like to join please. I did so well over the summer and lost 40 pounds. I am sure I have gained it all back. I will PM my weight tomorrow once I know what it is, I am afraid to see.

I have a lot to lose and I know what to do but for some reason I lose motivation. I also struggle with time. I work full time, have 3 kids, plus husband and dog. I am afraid if I don't make the time to exercise and make it a priority for me to get healthy, time won't matter because I won't be around for my family.

How does everyone balance family, job, and finding time to exercise?

I do really well with drinking water, because that is all I drink. I need to watch my portion control and I need to exercise!

I look forward to getting to know everyone and hopefully will be inspired to do what I NEED to do!

Please PM me with your starting weight and a goal of how many pounds you would like to lose this month, I will get you added! And welcome!

As for how to do it? Well, just as Pam said... I could do so many things better, but I do ok. I do find that I have to prioritize exercise. For instance, my BFF and I go hiking almost every weekend together, it is a pretty hard hike so not something I usually take the kids tyo do (though they have been twice when I had no choice) so, even though it means I never get to sleep in, I just make myself get up at 5:30 on our hike days so we can go and I can be home in time for the usual weekend rush of gymnastics, girl scout cookie sales, housework, and family outings. Plus DF is (usually) supportive enough to fill-in with dinner and homework time on Mon and Wed evenings so I can make it to the night zumba class at the Y. Just gotta commit, that's what I tell myself anyway.

So we are all updated.... everyone should have a PM from me acknowledging that I have received your stats and everyone should see their name in the Participants List in post #3. If you do not see these things, please let me know. OK, let's rock this month!

 

[araes2102]

Sorry I haven't been here to fill in the open coaching slot, but you guys are so awesome to keep the chatter going!

QOTD 2/4 - Seeing as how we just made it through one of the biggest snacking days of the year... Tell me some of your favorite HEALTHY, quick, easy, and go-to snack items!

For me... I love love love honeycrisp apples! Also, I know I have bragged about these before, but I love Sonoma Carb Cutting Tortillas from Trader Joes (60 cals, 7 gs fiber and 5gs protein). I like to sprinkle some shredded cheese and garlic powder on it, toast it up, and serve with a bit of salsa for a quick yummy snack! And I just started receiving Graze boxes, which I have delivered to work to keep around for snacks much better than anything I might find in the vending machine!

 

[Kachina]

Sounds like you've been through quite a lot! I'm totally inspired by how optimistic you are on life! Congrats on living in Montana! When I was there this past summer, I was amazed at how BLUE the sky was. You must love it!

Thank you! I'm blessed to live in such a beautiful place. Everywhere I look is postcard perfect.

Nice to meet you! Tell us a bit more about yourself and your "healthier living" journey!

Thank you for the well wishes. It's tough going, but we're hoping for the best. It's so hard to see him so sick on chemo days.

Bit more about my Journey ...

I'm doing paleo/primal, plus dairy. I'll give up my cake and potatoes, but you'll have to pry the cheese out of my cold, dead hands. DH and I have been doing it on and off for the last couple years, and I've seen some very good results. My problem in the past, though, is that we ate way too many paleo desserts. Aside form being a pain in the butt to make, they tend to be pretty carb heavy. They're much healthier than twinkies and stuff like that, but carbs and I don't get along if I don't want to hit a weightloss wall. I swear, I've lost and gained back the same 20 pounds so many times that I am beginning to doubt I can lose any weight past that point. Frustration at the scale not moving lead to us ditching the lifestyle for "comfort" foods.

So here I am, determined that this WILL be the time I get back to my pre-life-issues weight. I told DH that if he wants sweets, he better get them and eat them at work, because they'll be a rarity here for a few months. And so far, it is working very well. I love the whole foods lifestyle so much. I am looking forward to growing much of what we'll eat, starting this year. Garden, chickens for eggs and meat, turkey, rabbits for meat, and a couple cows for milk and meat. Like I said, I'm wallowing in my dream. I used to haul a lot of meat back in my trucking days, and the horrors there are enough to make anyone go vegan. I couldn't eat meat for a couple years, and I can still smell that slaughterhouse smell when I think of it. Add to it the growing amount of uncertainty in our food supply in general, and I am so relieved to be getting off that wagon.

Winters are obviously rough out here, so I bought a treadmill so I can walk indoors without freezing to death. They're calling for temps with windchill of -45 tomorrow. But I'll be toasty and comfortable when I exercise. It's slow going, half because of the weight and half because of service related deteriorating health, but I am committed.

Which brings me around to a public service I do at every chance I get.

If anyone knows someone who was stationed at Ft. McClellan, Alabama ... Please start sending them web search articles found by searching for things like "Ft. McClellan toxic veterans".
Here's a couple good ones to start with:
http://www.chicagonow.com/uncommon-sense/2013/08/toxic-vets-ft-mcclellan-08072013/
http://lawenforcementtoday.com/tag/fort-mcclellan-alabama/

We were unknowingly exposed to a whole host of nasty stuff, from Monsanto's PCBs, to ionizing radiation. I am an agent orange veteran, and I have never set foot on Vietnam. The VA continues to fight our begging for presumptive status, and to date neither they nor the government we faithfully served have notified a single veteran of their exposure. So we must do it ourselves. If you know someone, please tell them.

/off soap box

QOTD 2/4 - Seeing as how we just made it through one of the biggest snacking days of the year... Tell me some of your favorite HEALTHY, quick, easy, and go-to snack items!

I'd seriously kill for an apple right now. My favorite are the organic Opals. <3 But, too many carbs for me. I did can a bunch of them a couple months ago, so they'll be waiting for me as an occasional treat.

Favorite snack items around here are babybel cheese (the crack of cheeses), the bold flavored diamond almonds, mixed olives and beef jerky. Not real creative, but it's quick.