WISH Away the Pounds -- Fantastic February Challenge -- Everyone Welcome!

[jillbur]

Thank you so much, Magdalene, for coaching this week! You did a great job!

And a big WATP welcome to our new coach starting tomorrow, Jill.

A friendly reminder about weigh-in tomorrow. When you send me your PM if you would put the words "Weigh in 2/15" and your number in the subject line that is very helpful to me as I update the spreadsheet and double check the numbers.

Happy Valentine's Day to all of you and remember to love yourselves, too!

Aww shucks. Thanks for the welcome

Yes, thank you Magdalene! I know I missed a couple of your QOTDs but I enjoyed them and everyone's answers.

Just another reminder of weigh ins.

Hi ladies!

Do you like the Galloway training? I really want to train and register for the wine and dine half marathon. I'm new to running, I keep reading his running program on the runDisney site, but I just don't get it?? Really I'm a smart person but I must have a mental block for running. It must be a sign though, I was just rereading his program this morning and now it's mentioned in this thread! Thanks for any advise!

Melinda

I have the Jeff Galloway 5k app and love it. I used it to improve my 5k time and realized that I improved my time by about 3 minutes (to under 30 minutes) and wasn't out of breath or miserable. It's so much fun to be able to see improvement in a few days a week. I actually started loving running when I started this app.

Morning

This is a hard one for me as I hate the gym. (A pool would be good as I love swimming, but no chance of that in the UK!!) I get most of my exercise from walking, so maybe a treadmill would be my best option. And maybe some free weights to help tighten my bingo wings (Hope you US guys know what these are!!). Definitely no mirrors for me though...don't want to watch myself exercising as I'm sure it isn't pretty!!!

Have you ever seen the small indoor pools that flow so you can swim in a small area? I forget what they are called but they look awesome! I've never heard of the term bingo wings, but I definitely have them

Hi everyone!

Today is a good day - I am sore from the 30 Day Shred, but not as much as expected. And am looking forward to trying it again tonight. But the best thing is that the scale finally decided to be nice to me again. Just in time for this weeks weigh in!

Yay! Congrats!

Hope all of you have a great weigh in!!

QOTD for Friday:

That's an interesting question, Jill! I would definitely have a treadmill, a large mirror so that I can control my form when I am doing exercises and a few more weights of different sizes. Oh, and I love Eliza's idea of a pool! But it would have to be at least a 25m pool!! Not sure how I ever could fit that into my home gym.

So far my "home gym" consists of a yoga mat and two 1.5kg weights.

A treadmill and weights is a good mixture and it's something that doesn't require a lot of room. Although, the 25m pool may be a tad too big

Thank you, I really enjoyed coaching!

I think I will sign up for another week of coaching before I leave on vacation. So, Pamela and Rose, do you already know when you will need someone to coach in March or April?

And I decided that I would sign up as hostess for the June challenge. According to the first post that month is still available. I will be back from my trip mid May and I think committing to hosting the challenge shortly afterwards will make sure that I get back on track immediately!

Getting involved in these threads instead of just lurking really made a huge difference for me! So all your lurkers out there: Start posting, we would love to hear from you!!!

Thanks for offering to coach and host!

Smiley police got me! BRB.

 

[jillbur]

First of all, great question!

We do have some home gym equipment, but it is spread around the house. In the basement is a totally unused weight set that DH bought and used for about 8 weeks 5+ years ago. I might try to resurrect it at some point in the future, but I pushed it off to the side and gave the room to DS for a Lego room a few years ago, so it just gathers dust for now.

I have a TM that I bought many moons ago and it is still going strong! It has definitely gone through periods of less use and more use, but I am pretty proud to say that overall it is used fairly regularly (unless it is nice out and I am exercising outside). The TM is in my bedroom. When I bought it I didn't want the "out of sight, out of mind" excuse, plus I needed to be near the kids and near the tv. I also have an exercise ball and 3 sets of handweights (10 lb, 5 lb, 3 lb) that I use in my bedroom (my room is very large). I also have a small collection of exercise DVDs that haven't been used in a while.... JM 30 Day Shred, several WATP videos, DWTS exercise DVD, and a few very old VHS exercise tapes.

In the garage I have two mini-tramps that really need to be gone, as they never get used.

It would be really nice to have everything all together in one easy to use place (maybe the playroom that no one uses any more?), but for now it will stay where it all is.

For DD's sake I really wish we had a lap pool!

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

I'm at work and the kids are here.... I'm out of time! TTYL..........P

I'm jealous of your space for exercise equipment. We have a fairly large house, but no real room for equipment. It sounds like you have a good mixture of cardio and toning equipment. And, don't get rid of those trampolines! you can jump back and forth on them and give your kids a good laugh, right?

Oh this is an easy one. First of all, pretending for just a moment that $ was no object , I would install a PERSONAL TRAINER! Having someone on my case to push just little bit harder would be great! Back to reality though, a treadmill would definitely be the first thing, along with a full set of free weights and a really good multi-use weight machine - one that would work out every body part. I had a Bowflex a couple of years ago, and it started out great, but those rods wore out in no time and lost their resistance. Talk about a colassal waste of money!

I have various pieces of workout stuff: ab ball, bands, 5lb hand weights, elliptical, and a ton of DVD's that I never use. I just can't seem to find the motivation to work out to a DVD at home. Plus I just don't have a good place to work out to one. We're building an outdoor tiki bar area complete with a tv, so maybe being able to work out in my back yard (basically) will be more inspiring .

On a side note, for the 3rd week in a row, I haven't lost and ounce! I am so right now, it's difficult to not let it get to me. Any encouragement you ladies can send my way today will be GREATLY appreciated!!

Oh yes! A personal trainer would be awesome! How about Jillian Michaels right in your house yelling at you to push harder? I think a lot of people start out strong with dvds and then fade out. Or maybe it's just you and me?

Don't get discouraged about your weight. Plateaus happen all the time. Be patient and I'm sure it'll change soon!

Missed my plank yesterday, first day I've missed all month. My back is killing me and I tweaked my knee trying to get across the school parking lot. I hate it when I get moving and then have a set back. I'm also fighting a wicked migraine today.
I have a chiro appt for this afternoon, hopefully it will help.

Sent from my iPhone using DISboards

Oh no I hope you are feeling better!

good one!

Hope everyone is having a great Friday. I am still going strong with my mile a day challenge. (I have run every day this year except one when my back was really hurting--I walked that day, so I am counting it. ) My weight--eh, not as good as I would like, but I am hanging in there.

Great job! You are such an inspiration!

Thanks for coaching this week, Jill!

I do not have good success with exercising at home. My bad case of PF started with using the Wii fit and I just can't get into DVDs. My dream would be a pool with someone to take care of it! I really like my gym and they can get cool new stuff to try and have a lot of choices for classes. It's just blasting my butt out of bed that is hard sometimes!

I was so happy to have a 5 lb loss at WW yesterday. Thank goodness that whacked out gain went away as fast as it appeared. That puts me at 6.6 pounds lost since I joined WW 4 weeks ago!

Have a great day all and keep those PMs coming!

I completely understand the at home exercising thing. I love going to the gym or being outside running. What kind of classes do you enjoy at your gym?

Wow! Congrats on that weight loss!

Weigh in is on track this week.

The Biggest Loser scale has also been a huge help. We measured out the pasta dry beforehand to decide how much to cook. AHA!!! What a novel idea!!!No more dumping the whole box in the water to cook.

As far as the QOTD, well with my issues, I would love a stationary or recumbent bike and an elliptical.

I have an old treadmill that is very hard on the feet and a BOWFLEX that I have not used.

I do use my balance ball. I also have free weights, just a few. Oh and I have a reg. bike. I have to get it down though and dh can't do it right now.

Have a great weekend!!!!

Glad to hear you weight is on track this week! I should probably invest in a scale. And, what do you mean I shouldn't just dump the whole box of spaghetti in the pot of water?

You can get in some great exercises on an exercise ball, especially with some free weights.


They got me again! I love my smilies!!

 

[jillbur]

Oh my heavens to Betsy! My patience is GONE!! It is going to be a VERY long afternoon! The talking, tattling, poking..... I am SO done with 1st grade today!! Hopefully recess will get some of this out of their systems!

Off to read and reply before lunch!.........P

Oh you poor thing! I'm guessing some parents let their kids have Valentine's candy for breakfast. And, they are probably excited to have a 3 day weekend (assuming you are off Monday for President's Day). Hang in there. You could be in a class full of teens with attitudes!

Okay friends.... almost time to warm up my lunch so I can sit with the kiddos and eat. Neck pain is pretty bad today (although I can move okay) and coincidentally I did a full hour of incline work on the TM again last night.... probably not so much of a coincidence.

Hope your neck is feeling better. I was thinking of you this morning. DS9 is taking Scuba lessons tonight and for the next 3 weeks (Friday night from 6-7 of course). It's an introductory class for 8-12 year olds and he is so excited. I know how your DD got certified and how excited she was. I'll let you know how it goes. Tonight is more of an intro to equipment and fittings, so not too much in-pool time.

I have to laugh at all the "veggies" out there. I am trying to head in that direction myself but boy do I love chicken! But hot dogs and bacon??! Blech!!! You would all LOVE an event that's going on down here at the Seminole Coconut Creek Casino - BaconFest! It's over 20 vendors cooking their best bacon dishes, a bacon poetry contest, and even an appearance by the Bacon Brothers...yup, THAT Bacon brother Kevin. It turns my stomach just to think about it. The bacon, not the brother. What is up with this crazy pig fat obsession??? So far all you pig fat fans, here's the link to the website. Drool away my friends!


http://www.seminolecoconutcreekcasino.com/entertainment/baconfest-fl

Ummm...a bacon fest?!?! Genius!! It's too bad it's so far from PA Bacon is good.

Welcome Jill

A good sized nice mat, free weights, elliptical, top of the line tv and stereo system.

I really don't have anything at home anymore that I use anyway. Still have a mat, and the free weights--somewhere---. Have my bikes and my skateboard.

I'm down 2 pounds this week! Cool I get to go to the animated short thing.
It's funny--I'm already at my goal for the challenge this month, but of course I made myself a new long term goal. I am getting more and more excited about getting the tattoo. It is extremely motivating-- plus I went and told everyone so that is added motivation.

Had a great V-Day yesterday, love my new coffee pot-- it's so pretty! Husband also got me a cadbury egg which are my favorite, waited until this am to have it, tried to cut it in half-- of course that didn't work so I ate it all lol.

A lot can be done with a set of free weights. A skateboard would be the death of me! I have no coordination. I can see my feet flying out from underneath me & me landing on my head.

Congrats on the weight loss! And, I love(d) Cadbury eggs. Chocolate with sugar inside? Yes please! Then I had one last Easter and I thought it was disgusting. I guess my tastes for sugar have changed.

DD is swimming NHSA Regionals this weekend, but it will be later in the day on Saturday and Sunday (traveling about 90 minutes each way both days). I would much prefer to rise early and get the day started, but will adjust my schedule accordingly. That said, it will mean dinner on-the-go both days. I may make some quinoa stew tonight and pack my thermos both days.

Good luck to DD!

Since the number on the scale this morning was NOT what I was looking for, I will need to be careful over the weekend. Maybe my weekend splurge(s) last weekend were too much?? Anyhow, time to take inventory of my fridge and freezer, plan next week's meals, and make sure I have a really great OP week next week!! I will post my menu and workout schedule tonight or tomorrow. Having some accountability here will definitely help, especially with the exercise! With DD not heading to the Y in the morning any more, it is a bit tougher for me to be motivated to get in all of the exercise that I should. I am also working at least two days next week, which will make things a bit tighter. But the money is appreciated, especially with a new roof in our near future!

TTYL............P

I can't wait to see what your menu is. I love looking at other people's ideas. I am thinking of buying some things in bulk and separating them into snack size portions for me and the kids for after school snacks. I think a trip to Pinterest is in order!


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

I'm going to answer my own QOTD before I forget! I would love a quality treadmill, a spinning bike, a variety of free weights and a Bosu ball. I already have an elliptical, which I hate. But, I have no room for a large, loud treadmill so I compromised on the elliptical. I do use it when I can't get to the gym, but it's not fun. I also have dvds which I pull out now and then and a few free weights.

I was off work today so I was up bright and early to do my taxes. Then, DH and I took DSs to the roller skating rink since we didn't have school today (teacher inservice). Our roller rink has a HUGE play area with tubes, slides, balls, etc., a rock climbing wall, and laser tag. DS9 skated and DS6 played in the play zone. The rink gave the school free admissions for today so all we had to pay for was the inline skates for $3. Not bad for 2 hours. DSs both knew other kids there, so DH and I got to sit and talk while we watched them.

I'm going to have to run so we can have dinner before DS9 goes to his 1st intro to scuba lesson. This should be fun! And, I get to sit in a nice warm pool since I've been chilly all day.

I am planning to spend some time editing my Photopass pictures tonight seeing as though we've been home for 2 weeks! Usually, I am dying to get on the site and start the process, but I've been so busy that I decided to wait until this weekend. So, I'll check back here sometime later when I get frustrated with how slow that site is!

Jill

 

[Eliza32]

Hi Jill

It's the space for a pool that is the problem for sure...my backyard is only 12ft x 18ft!!! Then of course there's the cost!!!! Think I'll just go to the public pool once in a while.

 

[Mary•Poppins]

[quote}

Helped daughter move today--husband saw her and her boyfriend walking, pulled over and made her talk to me. We had heard this week she was homeless for a few weeks....was a little worried....but she found a good place, everything is in her name so she can kick out useless if he $%#*'s up again. Some womens program is paying 1/2 the rent. She also says she's going back to school--he's been a problem with this.
Still had enough time to lift weights at least tonight. Tomorrow I'll probably just do the elliptical.

About your daughter. I am glad you helped her work out a place to stay.

Happy Valentines Day!!

QOTD:
Yesterday was Ash Wednesday, so the lent has started which is a period of fasting and abstinence. While that is different from weight loss it is in a way similar. Many people take the idea of lent - whether in its religous context or totally seperate from that - to consciously abstain from something, be it food or anything else, maybe even something intangible. Have you ever consciously decided to do without something for a certain amount of time just for the experience of it - whether for lent or for any other reason?

I am trying to give up alchohol and sweets. However, yesterday was Valentine's Day and I gave myself a pass. My DH got me chocolate covered strawberries and truffles. And since both my boys at home were on a skiing trip, we went out to dinner. It was a nice treat.

Well, my house was attacked by Cupid this morning. When the girls and I woke up we found the kitchen table fully decorated with rose petals, stuffed animals, chocolates, flowers and cards from DH. He is so sweet The girls and I also made him cookies that they decorated last night. So right now our house is a dieter's nightmare!! I sent some of the stuff to school with my 5 year old to give to her friends on the bus. The Lindt chocolates are 2 points a piece, so I figure I can eat 24 of them with my weekly points! (I'm only kidding). Honestly, as I said above I am just so on track and I know that I am worth it, so all these chocolates aren't even tempting me. Yes, I'll have a few and indulge my sweet tooth, but I'll count the points and I won't feel badly about it.

I hope everyone has a great Valentine's day with the ones you love!

AHHH ... you have a great DH! I think chocolate on Valentine's Day has zero calories ... LOL!

Good Friday morning and hello! I am Jill, your coach for this week


QOTD Friday, February 15
If you could design your own home gym, what equipment would be a necessity to have? Or, if you already have a home gym, what equipment do you have and what do you use the most?

Jill

I like the personal trainer. I had a treadmill years ago and didn't really use it. I do much better when I go to a class of some sort ... or a goal for running a certain distance. I would love to have someone forcing me to work out.

 

[jillbur]

Good Saturday morning! I am going to be spending my morning loading pics onto Walgreens.com, doing laundry, generally cleaning around this house, and meal planning. So, in honor of my fun chore of meal planning comes the QOTD:


QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?


I'll be back in a bit to catch up

Jill

 

[pjlla]

I'm jealous of your space for exercise equipment. We have a fairly large house, but no real room for equipment. It sounds like you have a good mixture of cardio and toning equipment. And, don't get rid of those trampolines! you can jump back and forth on them and give your kids a good laugh, right?

I've tried using the tramps before.... but my old-lady weak bladder definitely doesn't like it!

Oh yes! A personal trainer would be awesome! How about Jillian Michaels right in your house yelling at you to push harder? I think a lot of people start out strong with dvds and then fade out. Or maybe it's just you and me?

I agree! I was very faithful to my WATP DVDs in the beginning, but I almost never think about them now. That being said, I'm not ready to dump them, as they are great when I need something "different" to do.


Glad to hear you weight is on track this week! I should probably invest in a scale. And, what do you mean I shouldn't just dump the whole box of spaghetti in the pot of water?

I still get horrified when I realize that I used to cook an entire POUND of pasta for two adults and two kids! And we would sometimes finish it!


They got me again! I love my smilies!!

Oh you poor thing! I'm guessing some parents let their kids have Valentine's candy for breakfast. And, they are probably excited to have a 3 day weekend (assuming you are off Monday for President's Day). Hang in there. You could be in a class full of teens with attitudes!

We do NOT have Monday holiday. For many surrounding states the February school vacation starts on Monday with the holiday, but we are (as usual) a week later than them with no President's Day holiday. Honestly.... I despise the middle school age, but don't have an issue with high school kids.

Hope your neck is feeling better. I was thinking of you this morning. DS9 is taking Scuba lessons tonight and for the next 3 weeks (Friday night from 6-7 of course). It's an introductory class for 8-12 year olds and he is so excited. I know how your DD got certified and how excited she was. I'll let you know how it goes. Tonight is more of an intro to equipment and fittings, so not too much in-pool time.

Hope he enjoys it! DD actually started her swim career because she wanted to be a better SCUBA diver! When she was about 9 we took her to a SCUBA shop to talk about lessons. They told us that while she could start lessons, she couldn't get certified until she was 13 y/o so we decided to hold off for a while and improve her swimming skills. Once she really got into swimming, she was too busy for SCUBA and after we talked about it we realized that it would be a PERFECT Senior Project, so we waited! She actually decided in 7th or 8th grade that this would be her Senior Project.... and she stuck with the idea!

If he has ANY questions feel free to PM me! DD would love to talk to someone else about the experience!


I can't wait to see what your menu is. I love looking at other people's ideas. I am thinking of buying some things in bulk and separating them into snack size portions for me and the kids for after school snacks. I think a trip to Pinterest is in order!

Working on it today!

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

I'm going to answer my own QOTD before I forget! I would love a quality treadmill, a spinning bike, a variety of free weights and a Bosu ball. I already have an elliptical, which I hate. But, I have no room for a large, loud treadmill so I compromised on the elliptical. I do use it when I can't get to the gym, but it's not fun. I also have dvds which I pull out now and then and a few free weights.

Honestly, you can do SO MUCH with a few DVDs and some handweights! I would love a BOSU ball too and I actually asked for one for Christmas a few years ago.... until I realized that they cost about $75 new! I still occasionally troll on Craigslist looking for one on the cheap, but I'm not paying that much for a new one.

I was off work today so I was up bright and early to do my taxes. Then, DH and I took DSs to the roller skating rink since we didn't have school today (teacher inservice). Our roller rink has a HUGE play area with tubes, slides, balls, etc., a rock climbing wall, and laser tag. DS9 skated and DS6 played in the play zone. The rink gave the school free admissions for today so all we had to pay for was the inline skates for $3. Not bad for 2 hours. DSs both knew other kids there, so DH and I got to sit and talk while we watched them

WOW! THat is quite a deal! I would pay dearly for rock climbing and laser tag locally here. Glad you were able to take advantage of the deal. And the kids had a good active day to boot!


I'm going to have to run so we can have dinner before DS9 goes to his 1st intro to scuba lesson. This should be fun! And, I get to sit in a nice warm pool since I've been chilly all day.

I am planning to spend some time editing my Photopass pictures tonight seeing as though we've been home for 2 weeks! Usually, I am dying to get on the site and start the process, but I've been so busy that I decided to wait until this weekend. So, I'll check back here sometime later when I get frustrated with how slow that site is!

Jill

What kind of editing do you do? I've always just ordered the Photopass DVD and that's it. Will you share a photo with us when you get them??

I am trying to give up alchohol and sweets. However, yesterday was Valentine's Day and I gave myself a pass. My DH got me chocolate covered strawberries and truffles. And since both my boys at home were on a skiing trip, we went out to dinner. It was a nice treat.

Glad you enjoyed a nice VD dinner with your family.

AHHH ... you have a great DH! I think chocolate on Valentine's Day has zero calories ... LOL!

EXACTLY!!!

I like the personal trainer. I had a treadmill years ago and didn't really use it. I do much better when I go to a class of some sort ... or a goal for running a certain distance. I would love to have someone forcing me to work out.

I also do better when someone is expecting me. DD is GREAT for getting me out and moving when I don't really want to be. She got me in spin class a few times! I hated it, but I did it!

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

Morning all! Woke to a light coating of fresh snow.... just 2-3 inches, but enough to make the roads slick and such. DS and DH are heading an hour south to a "practice" tournament for Robotics. I would have gone if it seemed important, but they didn't seem to think it was a big deal and since I have to leave with DD mid-afternoon, it would have meant taking two cars, so I am skipping. I asked DS to take his video camera so I could see it later, but he said the battery is dead and he can't find the cord.

As I mentioned yesterday, DD and I are heading about 90 minute NORTH for swim this afternoon and tomorrow. Because this is such a huge meet they have THREE sessions every day and we are in the latest one. Not sure if we will be home before 10-11 pm. And parking at this place is a nightmare and now they've started CHARGING for parking!

I checked the scale again today because yesterday's number was SO FAR off of what I expected and it was MUCH BETTER.... much more in line with what I had expected to see.... a nice small loss instead of a big gain! So I'm feeling MUCH LESS panicky than I was yesterday, but I still plan to write up a food plan and exercise schedule. With DD not heading to the Y in the mornings, it is much more important that I decide exactly what/when my exercise will be!

For starters I'll tell you that breakfast today will be an egg white omelet with spinach and red bell peppers and light provolone, with a corn Vitamuffin on the side. YUM! I'm already hungry!

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

 

[pjlla]

QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?


I'll be back in a bit to catch up

Jill

I am all over the board with this. I like finding recipes in magazines and on Pinterest and online other places. Weight Watchers Magazine and Cooking Light both have great stuff. I also make up my own recipes a lot of the time, trying to use whatever I have on hand. And of course, I make adjustments to recipes I already have to try and make them healthier and lighter! I have tried to learn many techniques for making traditionally "heavy" things much lighter.... like white sauce and cheese sauce, breaded and fried items, etc. And I am big on adding BULK to foods to make them more filling for few calories.

I hestitate to buy cookbooks because often there will be just one or two recipes I like in a big book. In fact, one of my spring cleaning plans has been to copy a few good recipes out of some of my existing books and then dump the books. I have a big cupboard dedicated to cookbooks/magazines, but I use the same 10-20 recipes over and over!

This is a GREAT question and I'm excited to hear what folks have to say! .........................P

 

[The Mystery Machine]

.
QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?

Good morning!

I have a lot of cookbooks but no favorite. Basically I read a recipe and then adjust it to what I want. Most of my cooking is done without a recipe. I have been looking for "heart healthy" recipes and "low fat" recipes at the present moment.

I am considering getting rid of most of my cookbooks (not all)! I love books and this would be very hard for me, I am a book junkie.

We do not alter food much. Steam or saute veggies, grill, roast, broil meats/fish. I have been cooking like that for a long while already.

Now I just eat smaller portions and I MAKE SURE that there is a veggie or 2 on that plate every time.

Have a great Saturday!!!

 

[BernardandMissBianca]

Sorry you missed the plank, but don't worry about it too much. What did you do in the school parking lot??

Chiro will make you feel better!

With the thaw and refreeze the whole lot is an ice skating rink in the mornings. I hit a bad spot and kind of slipped but caught myself. Must have twisted me knee somehow.
Never made it to the chiro, my head hurt so much I just laid down instead. Of course my head and my back still hurt today, I need to go back on Monday.

 

[DisFam95]

Hello all. Been a busy week as usual. Well despite many extra valentines treats and snacking I'm down .9 of a pound. Hey I'll take it.

Had a moment of weakness yesterday. I swear I can tell a difference in my hormones starting immediately after ovulation. After infertility issues I'm keenly aware of the moment I ovulate . It took all I had not to pull into McDonalds yesterday. I hurried home and made a veggie burger instead w just a few potato chips.

Re: a previous QOTD, I can't even remember the date but I have not had a soda in more than a week - maybe 2. I had no tea made the other day and water seemed boring so I opened a can of DHs diet coke (not my usual coke zero) had a sip and it was terrible!! So I poured my ice water and realized I preferred it. OMG have my tastes changed. I hope I can keep this up!

What's the opinion on Splenda? I here mixed things. Better than aspartame for sure I plan to only use it in emergencies!!

 

[pjlla]

With the thaw and refreeze the whole lot is an ice skating rink in the mornings. I hit a bad spot and kind of slipped but caught myself. Must have twisted me knee somehow.
Never made it to the chiro, my head hurt so much I just laid down instead. Of course my head and my back still hurt today, I need to go back on Monday.

Oohh... painful. Sorry to hear about that. I've done similar things and tweaked knees and neck. Hopefully your Chiro can see you Monday!

Hello all. Been a busy week as usual. Well despite many extra valentines treats and snacking I'm down .9 of a pound. Hey I'll take it.

WOOHOO!

Had a moment of weakness yesterday. I swear I can tell a difference in my hormones starting immediately after ovulation. After infertility issues I'm keenly aware of the moment I ovulate . It took all I had not to pull into McDonalds yesterday. I hurried home and made a veggie burger instead w just a few potato chips.

Good girl!! My ovulations days have passed (it seems that way at least) but I always could tell that better than the TOM feeling!

Re: a previous QOTD, I can't even remember the date but I have not had a soda in more than a week - maybe 2. I had no tea made the other day and water seemed boring so I opened a can of DHs diet coke (not my usual coke zero) had a sip and it was terrible!! So I poured my ice water and realized I preferred it. OMG have my tastes changed. I hope I can keep this up!

Another WOOHOOO!!

What's the opinion on Splenda? I here mixed things. Better than aspartame for sure I plan to only use it in emergencies!!

Worst... aspartame and saccharine; slightly "not so terrible (but should still be kept to a minimum)"...... Splenda; better...... stevia; best..... real cane sugar (or no sugar at all). That is MY opinion anyhow (based on what I've heard and read).

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

Made my quinoa with black beans with extra veggies and divided it up for the week..... it made 6 servings, so I had one for lunch and will have the rest during the week. Also made oven roasted broccoli, green beans, and parsnips for lunch for DD and I. She isn't swimming quite as late as I thought tonight (should be done by 7pm) so I will pack just a snack and maybe we'll stop and share a baked potato and small chili at Wendy's on our way home.

We are leaving here in 30 minutes, so am going to dash and get ready! The wi-fi at this particular venue is spotty, so I'm not sure if I will be back on tonight or not.......................P

 

[NightAngelX]

I think many people have hobbies that are very important to them. Some people are collectors, others spent all their time in the garden. So why not having trip planning as your hobby???

Do you move your scale around? I find that I get the best consistency when I do not touch my scale besides stepping on it. Maybe it just needs new batteries?

I have lots of hobbies...too many hobbies. I need to get started on my gardening and I've been neglecting my gaming guild. But yes I think Disney planning is a definite hobby as well!
I think DH decided it was from looking down at the scale while he is on it. If he stays looking straight ahead and then looks when he gets off it seems to be the same. So that's good. I still might get us another scale but I dont have to right now I guess.

Good Saturday morning! I am going to be spending my morning loading pics onto Walgreens.com, doing laundry, generally cleaning around this house, and meal planning. So, in honor of my fun chore of meal planning comes the QOTD:


QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?

I should do that cleaning stuff too....

I get alot of ideas online. Either from pinterest or I will just think of an unhealthy meal I am craving and then search online for a healthy alternative.
As for magazines I subscribe to many that I get for free using coke points (i drink a diet coke a day). I get Redbook and Fitness right now. In the past i've gotten all you, good housekeeping, glamour, in style and self. Self and Glamour used to be my faves but I think I may have 'outgrown' them. They seem aimed a younger crowd. I don't know. I still like Self but I thought I would give Fitness a try. I've only gotten one so far but I like it. It had some good recipes in it and workouts I have yet to try.

Sorry to all for being MIA. Its been a busy week at work and at home.

I've been doing my plank everyday and walked the dog everyday but one (but that was because I went grocery shopping that day and by the time i got home it was dark).

DH and I went out to eat on Valentine's and I didn't count calories that night so it was a bit of a cheat. I still show a loss for the week so I guess that's good but its not as much as I would like.

I hope to get better at replying to all but in the meantime, I hope everyone is doing well and has a wonderful weekend!

 

[sskem96]

Sorry I haven't been posting this week, but I have been keeping up with the thread at least. I haven't really had any computer time, but I do read on my phone any time I get the chance so I don't get behind. I do want to try to catch up with the QOTD though!

I work 12 hour night shifts every weekend plus 1 additional day/week. After working all weekend last week, my mom came down on Monday. It was her brother's birthday and he passed away a couple years ago, so she just wanted to have something to do to keep her mind occupied. She stayed with the girls Tuesday night so DH and I could get away. We ate at a buffet (bad!), did some shopping, and stayed at a hotel about an hour from home. We had to be back around lunch time Wed to take DD13 to get her retainers. She had just gotten her braces off Tues morning. I had to work Thurs night so I slept most of the day on Friday, and I've been cleaning all day today because my niece is coming to visit tomorrow. She's coming on the train from Kansas City so I can take her to a Black Veil Brides concert on Wed night. I have no idea what I'm going to wear to that since my wardrobe basically consists of Disney t-shirts with a couple Justin Bieber shirts thrown in for good measure! Anyway, she loves BVB and I found out they were coming to town, so I offered to take her. She's my sister's daughter and my sister isn't really in the picture anymore, so I'm just thrilled that her dad is letting her come visit. We haven't seen her in almost 2 years.

I need to get showered now and take DD13 to softball practice and pick up DD 16 from dance. I feel like all I do is run these kids all over town all day and then rush off to work right after dinner!

 

[NightAngelX]

I received my 2013 WDW planning dvd in the mail today!! I signed up for it awhile ago.

I am such a dork I literally got goosebumps when I opened it and read

"The Fantasy Awaits Lastname Family"

What is wrong with me??

 

[jillbur]

QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?

Jill

I actually love the magazine Fitness. It has great articles about all around health. They have some good recipes, too. I usually just look online for healthier versions of what I'm in the mood for. I usually use Pinterest, All recipes, Skinny Ms, and I found Cooking Light today.

I am not a cook, so I need to follow recipes. I am not the type of person who can just do my own thing and it tastes okay enough to eat!!

What kind of editing do you do? I've always just ordered the Photopass DVD and that's it. Will you share a photo with us when you get them??

I am going through all the photos and adding borders. I am also enlarging some of the really nice ones of the boys together or all of us together to put in 5x7 or 8x10 frames. I also change some to back and white. If I can figure out how to post a pic, I will as soon as I get the dvd. I don't use any photo sharing sites. I just upload to Walgreen and print when they have a good code. I can actually walk to our Walgreens, so I just order regular and they are usually done in one hour.

DS loved scuba last night. They just learned basic hand signals and about the equipment. Then they swam in the shallow end for a bit and played underwater Frisbee. Next week they are going to try to work together to build something with pvc pipes (I can't remember what though) and they will also be doing a simulated night dive the last week with the lights out & using flashlights. He is so excited.

I am all over the board with this. I like finding recipes in magazines and on Pinterest and online other places. Weight Watchers Magazine and Cooking Light both have great stuff. I also make up my own recipes a lot of the time, trying to use whatever I have on hand. And of course, I make adjustments to recipes I already have to try and make them healthier and lighter! I have tried to learn many techniques for making traditionally "heavy" things much lighter.... like white sauce and cheese sauce, breaded and fried items, etc. And I am big on adding BULK to foods to make them more filling for few calories.

I hestitate to buy cookbooks because often there will be just one or two recipes I like in a big book. In fact, one of my spring cleaning plans has been to copy a few good recipes out of some of my existing books and then dump the books. I have a big cupboard dedicated to cookbooks/magazines, but I use the same 10-20 recipes over and over!

This is a GREAT question and I'm excited to hear what folks have to say! .........................P

I just looked at the Cooking Light site today. I found a couple recipes that I may print out. I tend to agree that I get a cookbook but only use 1 or 2 recipes out of it. Good luck on that spring cleaning plan!

Good morning!

I have a lot of cookbooks but no favorite. Basically I read a recipe and then adjust it to what I want. Most of my cooking is done without a recipe. I have been looking for "heart healthy" recipes and "low fat" recipes at the present moment.

I am considering getting rid of most of my cookbooks (not all)! I love books and this would be very hard for me, I am a book junkie.

We do not alter food much. Steam or saute veggies, grill, roast, broil meats/fish. I have been cooking like that for a long while already.

Now I just eat smaller portions and I MAKE SURE that there is a veggie or 2 on that plate every time.

Have a great Saturday!!!

Sautéed veggies are so yummy! Do you have any favorites? Have you looked at the American Heart Association for recipes? I know my mom did after my dad had a heart attack. It was a great source of information.

With the thaw and refreeze the whole lot is an ice skating rink in the mornings. I hit a bad spot and kind of slipped but caught myself. Must have twisted me knee somehow.
Never made it to the chiro, my head hurt so much I just laid down instead. Of course my head and my back still hurt today, I need to go back on Monday.

Oh no. I hope you get feeling better and that the chiro can get you all adjusted.

Hello all. Been a busy week as usual. Well despite many extra valentines treats and snacking I'm down .9 of a pound. Hey I'll take it.

Way to go!

Had a moment of weakness yesterday. I swear I can tell a difference in my hormones starting immediately after ovulation. After infertility issues I'm keenly aware of the moment I ovulate . It took all I had not to pull into McDonalds yesterday. I hurried home and made a veggie burger instead w just a few potato chips.

Great job avoiding that greasy food!

Re: a previous QOTD, I can't even remember the date but I have not had a soda in more than a week - maybe 2. I had no tea made the other day and water seemed boring so I opened a can of DHs diet coke (not my usual coke zero) had a sip and it was terrible!! So I poured my ice water and realized I preferred it. OMG have my tastes changed. I hope I can keep this up!

What's the opinion on Splenda? I here mixed things. Better than aspartame for sure I plan to only use it in emergencies!!

I saw that Pamela answered your question. I love how you said only for emergencies! I have found that I can do without any sweetener with some things, but I am having a hard time letting it go in my coffee. I would consider my coffee an emergency lol.

I should do that cleaning stuff too....

Except I felt so yucky that I never did clean. But, it will be there tomorrow, right?

I get alot of ideas online. Either from pinterest or I will just think of an unhealthy meal I am craving and then search online for a healthy alternative.
As for magazines I subscribe to many that I get for free using coke points (i drink a diet coke a day). I get Redbook and Fitness right now. In the past i've gotten all you, good housekeeping, glamour, in style and self. Self and Glamour used to be my faves but I think I may have 'outgrown' them. They seem aimed a younger crowd. I don't know. I still like Self but I thought I would give Fitness a try. I've only gotten one so far but I like it. It had some good recipes in it and workouts I have yet to try.

I also used to get Glamour then felt like I was too old for it. But I love Fitness! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.

Sorry to all for being MIA. Its been a busy week at work and at home.

It's okay. Life happens. Thanks for checking in and posting!

I've been doing my plank everyday and walked the dog everyday but one (but that was because I went grocery shopping that day and by the time i got home it was dark).

Way to go on the plank and dog walking!

DH and I went out to eat on Valentine's and I didn't count calories that night so it was a bit of a cheat. I still show a loss for the week so I guess that's good but its not as much as I would like.

Congrats on the loss!

I hope to get better at replying to all but in the meantime, I hope everyone is doing well and has a wonderful weekend!

Have a great weekend as well!

Sorry I haven't been posting this week, but I have been keeping up with the thread at least. I haven't really had any computer time, but I do read on my phone any time I get the chance so I don't get behind. I do want to try to catch up with the QOTD though!

I work 12 hour night shifts every weekend plus 1 additional day/week. After working all weekend last week, my mom came down on Monday. It was her brother's birthday and he passed away a couple years ago, so she just wanted to have something to do to keep her mind occupied. She stayed with the girls Tuesday night so DH and I could get away. We ate at a buffet (bad!), did some shopping, and stayed at a hotel about an hour from home. We had to be back around lunch time Wed to take DD13 to get her retainers. She had just gotten her braces off Tues morning. I had to work Thurs night so I slept most of the day on Friday, and I've been cleaning all day today because my niece is coming to visit tomorrow. She's coming on the train from Kansas City so I can take her to a Black Veil Brides concert on Wed night. I have no idea what I'm going to wear to that since my wardrobe basically consists of Disney t-shirts with a couple Justin Bieber shirts thrown in for good measure! Anyway, she loves BVB and I found out they were coming to town, so I offered to take her. She's my sister's daughter and my sister isn't really in the picture anymore, so I'm just thrilled that her dad is letting her come visit. We haven't seen her in almost 2 years.

I need to get showered now and take DD13 to softball practice and pick up DD 16 from dance. I feel like all I do is run these kids all over town all day and then rush off to work right after dinner!

It sounds like you are getting some great family time in. That was so nice of your mom to stay with your girls so you could get out with your DH. And, how fun to see your niece after such a long time! She is probably so excited!

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

Well, my plan for the day did not pan out at all. I did upload my pictures from our camera and my phone to Walgreens. But then I started not feeling too well. I woke up with a nasty cough and I was just feeling tired and achy. So, I helped DSs build an old fashioned dining room chair and blanket fort, then rested on the couch. DS6 declared me sick when he felt my head and said it was hot. I took my temp and was 100, so not really a fever, but I took some cold meds for the couch and aches. I eventually made a quick dinner then fell asleep on the couch. I feel a tad better now. I hope I feel better tomorrow since my sister is having us over for her and my nephew's birthdays. Not that I need cake or ice cream, but it'll be a fun family time.

It sure is a quiet day here today. I hope everyone is having a good day and enjoying the weekend. I may be back later to post the QOTD for tomorrow in case I feel better and I am rushing the kids out the door for Sunday School and church.

Jill

 

[50sjayne]

Good Saturday morning! I am going to be spending my morning loading pics onto Walgreens.com, doing laundry, generally cleaning around this house, and meal planning. So, in honor of my fun chore of meal planning comes the QOTD:

QOTD Saturday, February 16

Do you have a favorite healthy magazine or cookbook? Where do you find healthy recipes? Or, do you just make healthy adjustments to recipes that you already have?

I'll be back in a bit to catch up

Jill

I love Self magazine. My sis in law gave me a present of a magazine subscription a few years ago and I keep renewing it.

Hello all. Been a busy week as usual. Well despite many extra valentines treats and snacking I'm down .9 of a pound. Hey I'll take it.

Had a moment of weakness yesterday. I swear I can tell a difference in my hormones starting immediately after ovulation. After infertility issues I'm keenly aware of the moment I ovulate . It took all I had not to pull into McDonalds yesterday. I hurried home and made a veggie burger instead w just a few potato chips.

Re: a previous QOTD, I can't even remember the date but I have not had a soda in more than a week - maybe 2. I had no tea made the other day and water seemed boring so I opened a can of DHs diet coke (not my usual coke zero) had a sip and it was terrible!! So I poured my ice water and realized I preferred it. OMG have my tastes changed. I hope I can keep this up!

What's the opinion on Splenda? I here mixed things. Better than aspartame for sure I plan to only use it in emergencies!!

I know my food cravings are always worse the week before my period. It's funny-- I just had an opposite experience than you. I was out of all low calorie mixers for my vodka or rum and tried just vodka, water and lime and yuck!
I put honey in my coffee. My Dad was doing this the last time I visited, so I started doing it and have been doing it for about 10 years. Sometime
s I add a little stevia, agave, white sugar or splenda and I always have to have a liquid creamer.

Had a great week. My friend had the same days as me at work so it was really a nice surprise all week for me. I hope the schedule stays the same-- we used to be scheduled together for years. I suppose they all think I'm supposed to 'get over' him but that will never happen....

 

[jillbur]

Good morning! I woke up still not feeling too well, so the kids are going to miss Sunday school (DH is sleeping after working midnights so he can't take them). So, I am going to post the QOTD and take some meds and relax. I'll check in throughout the day.


QOTD Sunday, February 17

It's a fun question today! If you could possess one "power," what would it be and why?

Jill

 

[dismagiclover]

QOTD Sunday, February 17

It's a fun question today! If you could possess one "power," what would it be and why?

Jill

Hi everyone. I've just been lurking lately, but thought I'd do a brief report. I'm still doing my plank a day challenge. I'm up to 49 seconds! I should be at a full minute by the end of the month Then I think I'll work up to 2 sets of 1 minute planks. Don't want to get too ahead of myself though. The weight loss is coming along, but slower than I'd like this month. Not sure if I'll reach my monthly goal, but I'll still weigh less on March 1 than I did on Feb. 1. (And that is what really matters, right?)

QOTD: I always tell my kids I wish I had Elastigirl's power. (You know, Mrs. Incredible.) Then I could just sit in my chair all day and stretch to get whatever I needed. Of course, that power would not help with weight loss

Hope everyone enjoys their Sunday.

 

[lisah0711]

Sharing this I found on FB this morning: