WISH Away The Pounds - Marvelous March Challenge ~~ All are WELCOME!

[pjlla]

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

 

[PlutoBaby]

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

Since there are times that my IT Band issues get so bad, I have to stop running for a while. In order to stay in shape, I jump on my elliptical instead. I don't really like it that much, but it's better than sitting on the couch stuffing my yap! Now I don't see it as much as a punishment, but an alternative to doing nothing.

 

[pjlla]

Hi everyone! I think I am through with my funk and once again motivated. It also helps that the scale was a little bit friendlier to me this morning!!

Work is really horrible at the moment, but so far I am OP today, managed to be at the city hall at 8am to get a new driver's licence before work and had a succesful morning at work!

Oh - and that evening when I felt like eating lots of junk while sitting on my sofa: I ended up buying a pineapple as a healthy treat and a glossy magazine! And was quite proud of myself!

Sorry I missed this yesterday! That is a GREAT success!!!

Two things are different for me: So far I always lost weight just on my own - and I did not do too bad with it. But this time I became involved in this thread and it really helps to have a support group. It helps me especially when I need to get back into the routine of eating OP and exercising after a lapse in good habits. I am really counting on the support here to get me back on track immediately after my vacation! The good thing is that this threads pops up in my subscribed threads on the DIS anyway. So when I come to the DIS to read about WDW for entertainment, I also find my weight loss support group. Much more difficult to ignore than if it were on another website.

I agree!

The other thing is that I think that I finally found some strength exercise that I enjoy. I kind of knew that I ought to do some cross training with my running, but hated the gym and never was motivated. I never expected to enjoy fitness DVDs, the whole concept of jumping around in my living room just seemed bizarre. But now I am in love with my 30 DS - and am looking forward to trying out different ones!

Glad you are loving the 30DS. I am going to pull out and dust off an old BL workout DVD today! I haven't done it in AGES and I'm sure it will kill me, but I need a change!!

Pamela, sorry to hear your news. Many hugs!!!!

Thanks.... I really needed that!

QOTD for March 11th?

Different this time and why I will be successful?

1) DH had a heart attack and triple bypass surgery, heart healthy diet is important in this house forever. We are trying to get his numbers under control.

2) I am "injured" and in order to to "be normal" I have to PT exercise. Which will help me to exercise SAFELY so I do not repeat this mess.

3) I have less than 2yrs to get into great shape for turning 50.

4) I need to get employed for the long haul and cannot do it in the condition I am in.

5) I want to do step classes, Zumba, walk the dogs, etc...without injuring myself. I used to do plenty of exercising without any issues and it is really ticking me off that I am so far gone with being out of shape.

Steps I have taken to ensure success?

1) Got all my medical stuff done and working on it. There are no questions about anything in that dept. It helps with my goals.

2) I am actually eating the fruits and veggies I buy. Which seems dumb but let me tell you it is not easy changing that mindset!!!! I have to force myself sometimes. It is so weird.

3) Not buying "junk food". The 16yodd begged me for cookies when I went to Walmart yesterday. I told her I will not BUY any cookies. However she is welcome to come into the kitchen and help me make homemade chocolate chip cookies or a homemade dessert from stratch. I am not against "desserts" or "treats" but I am against the factory made processed food.

You have a great solid PLAN in place and that will go a long way in insuring your success this time around! I love your 3rd step to success. I don't mind making an occasional treat at home for the kids.... but I REFUSE to spend money on easy, quick, GARBAGE from the store! We don't buy Goldfish, Oreos, Little Debbies, Froot Loops, Chips Ahoy, saltines, etc. Glad to find another parent on board with that!!

That's an easy one - WW and the DIS! Since I've been doing the WW thing for over a year now, it's become such a habit that I don't even have to think about it any more. But on the (good) flip side, by checking in here almost daily, it does keep me "thinking" about what I stuff in my yap every day (i.e., veggies, fruit, junk, etc).

Love, love, love another WW success story!

Great news on the maintaining - hey it wasnt a gain so that's positive! Sometimes when I boost my workouts I tend to get that 'oh I can have an extra helping or bite'. So frustrating. If only I could get both the diet and exercise going together at the same time

Keep working on it.... it will all come together eventually!

I was like you and watched FS&ND and researched and went out and bought my juicer. Got mine at Bed Bath and Beyond w/ my coupon. Can't recall which one (as it's out in the garage) but I think was Jack LaLanne one for like $100 before discount. We used it faithfully and enjoyed it. Found a bunch of recipes and had fun playing w/ flavor combos. My concern w juice was you are not getting hardly any of the fiber and I did not stay full hardly at all.

Honestly cleaning it was a pain and my husband stopped using it. You have to empty the pulp, clean that container, the chute lid, plunger and that razor sharp 'filter' thing. We used a toothbrush to get in all the nooks and crannies.

Mine isn't too bad to clean (I think I have the same Jack LaLanne one).... I keep a small dish brush near the sink.... I wash most of the smooth parts just with a soapy sponge, use the brush on the blade and on the mesh strainer... if you wash it from the outside in, it works best. I make a full day's batch of juice all at once.... sometimes two days worth. I know it is best made and consumed fresh, but this is the concession I've made.

After all the talk here about smoothies versus juices, I made up a half and half drink on Sunday morning..... I used 2 C of a juice I had just made (celery, carrots, red bell pepper, papaya, apple, kale, parsley) with 1 C of unsweetened almond milk and one banana and whipped it up in the blender. It was actually VERY tasty and satisfying! I got an astounding quantity of drink for just 4 Points and it filled me nicely for the morning. My tummy appreciated something like that after having some distress on Saturday. I will need to remember this in the future! It would be a change from straight juicing, but still stick with the plants-only idea and is much more satisfying!

If that's the only thing in your budget possibility then go for it. iT's still great to do I think compared to the junk we eat sometime. I definetly had never eaten so many fruits and veg in my life!

I had been watching smoothie videos on youtube and really agreed w/ the benefits of getting the whole food in my drink plus being able to add more things like the flax and seeds and beneficial oils. Due to a work bonus we had a little extra money and invested in a Vitamix (top of the line but oh so worth it). They do sell them at BB&B and I've heard people have gotten the discount w/ the coupon even though it says Vitamix does not apply. If so just say no thanks then I didn't read the print

There are some other powerful blenders out there that can do similar results but you may need to cut things a bit more. Again tons of youtube videos on reviews and watching them use it.

Someday I'll have the $ to invest in a Vitamix. I keep drooling over the demos at Costco, but cannot bring myself to spend the $400+!

I've been doing the Dr OZ 3 day cleanse and was so full throughout the whole day I even skipped one of the 4 smoothies. No way could I have only had 3 glasses of just juice.

The blender styles you just dump it in and blend and rinse out the container. Soooo much easier that a juicer.

Anyway its a great way to substitute a meal and ultimately you have to work within your budget.

I have a newer Cuisinart blender in the back of the appliance garage I haven't used (even though I've had it 2+ years). I have been waiting for my 20 year old one to die.... but I'm wondering if it is time to send the old one to the dump and see if the new one might be able to handle smoothie making!


You WILL make it through! So sorry about your bad news. I've been hearing friends more and more talking about so and so having a heart attack. Now that I'm in my mid 40's I wonder is this the norm now? Hoping has a good recovery.

Yup.... at my age I seem to be hearing about folks having heart attacks and getting breast cancer... at my parent's age it is all about who is dying!!

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

Well my crop did not go quite as planned but really who was I kidding! I did not eat 28 turtles and only ate 5 over the whole day - BUT - I did eat 2 pieces of Sopapilla cheesecake. Have you ever had that?? Its so evil and delicious. For dinner we went to a place known for thier enchiladas but they also have rotissiere chicken so I just ordered that (white meat) and no sides. Figured I had plenty of other junk. NIbble some carrots and hummus and only drank water all day.

AND what did I have for breakfas today?? The piece of Spapilla cheesecake the girl gave me to take home oh yes I did.

So...It's smoothies for lunch! I did burn ~550 on the treadmill so hopefully that negates my breakfast.

Have a great day!!

Do not even TELL me what sopapilla cheesecake is! We had sopapilla(s) while we were in NM a few years ago and we STILL dream about how delicious they were!

Good afternoon everyone!!

Its been a great day so far, already got my workout in and had a huckleberry protein drink for bfast!! Now just drinking my coffee checking out the boards.

Mmmm... huckleberry sounds GOOD! I don't think I've ever bought them. Where do you find them?

As for the QOTD.....
The difference this time is definitely where my head is at! Last time I lost weight it was more out of anger & competition. So naturally after time passed, the weight returned. This time I am not in that toxic relationship and I can just focus on being healthy.
I am going to succeed because I am only doing it for me, no one else. I am not trying to fix all my problems, as I have realized my weight is not the root of my happiness, and I know that even when I get thin, I will still have problems to deal with.
The things I have changed are that we no longer buy things like soda & chips. We have "Meatless Mondays" where we incorporate vegetarian dishes for the day. I only grill or bake my meat & fish, never fry or bread anything. I always take veggies & dip for lunch. And I always have at least a salad with dinner, if not other veggies too. On Fridays I have a "free day" where I can eat whatever I want WITHOUT GUILT!!! If I have a craving for a treat or high carb meal, I wait until Friday and have an appropriate portion. That last one is the most important for me since it gives me something to look forward to so I don't get discouraged and often by Friday I have changed my mind. Although, usually Saturday I feel all bloated and sluggish, so I am ready to stick to my new way of eating even more!!

This has been my working plan for the last month or so and I have lost 10 lbs!

I forgive myself often and love myself always!!!

You are SO ready for success! I'm impressed with all of the positive changes you have made!!

What's Different this time??? It's ME! I'm no longer into the " quick fix ", wanting to lose as much weight a quickley as possible. My girlfriend just did a 3 day WATER diet, only water for 3 days... no food ridiculous.
I want to be healthy and set a good example for my kids - the by product of healthly living is losing this extra weight

I would be passing OUT after 3 days of just water.... not to mention I would be so cranky that I'm SURE my family would have staged an intervention by the end of day 2!!

By wanting to be HEALTHIER, in addition to being slimmer, and set a good example for your kids, you are setting yourself on the path to SUCCESS!!!

the steps i'm taking are " slow and steady wins the race ". This is a lifestyle change - not a temp change. I started slowly, just exercising. Then i cut out eating snacks with every meal, and in between meals. Eventually moved into eating healthly, less processed food, dairy, sugar, caffine etc. Now i'm trying to put that all together -healthy eating an exercising. Its taken about a year - but im in no rush, i plan on being around for about 45 more years

Stay healthy my friends!
Melinda

I love that you are doing it in stages! I was in a BIG hurry to lose my weight this time around and kind of dove in head first.... but fortunately it didn't really backfire (although it could have). But as I have been on this journey for a few years now, I have continued to make positive changes, slowly, to my PERMANENT eating pattern. Doing it slowly makes it SO MUCH MORE likely to STICK!

The main difference this time is that I am not doing this for just weight loss. I'm getting healthy overall. I love working out, especially running. I love having more energy. I love feeling healthy & not sluggish or run down. It's my choice and I'm doing it for me & for no other reason.

WOOHOOO!!!!

I hope your uncle is doing well after his surgery. Prayers to you and your family.

Thanks so much. No news yet this morning, so I am assuming that is GOOD.

Is this pokey 1st grader my son?!?!

Could be!!



Good evening everyone! I'm sitting at drums while its rainy. We had such a beautiful, tease of a weekend. 50s and 60s and now possible snow tonight

My regular aide in my 9th-12th grade all boys room was back today after missing last week with a sick daughter. While he was out, I had 3 out of 5 horrible days. But, today was back to normal & I'm actually not stressed at all He's a great aide & the kids really respect him, so it felt good to be back to normal. It's so funny how high school kids act when there is a change. They just wanted to see how far they could push it with the substitute aide & it made my days stressful! When's spring break?!?!


Since I am occasionally that substitute, I can TOTALLY appreciate what you are saying! Middle schoolers are the WORST at pushing my buttons.... so I avoid that age group.... but high schoolers can be downright scary! Some of them are FAR bigger than me and have no problem telling me what I can do with my authority!


Pamela~did you find a new exercise or class yet? I love my circuit training classes. We do weights for a minute then move to the next machine or exercise if we are using free weights (similar to curves). But, our instructor mixes in Tabata. It's a great workout. I also love spinning. It's a kick butt workout, but you either love it or hate it. I bought a DVD set that's similar to P90x but shorter workouts. It's good to use at home, but I do better at the gym. How about a kettlebell workout? I like using those as well.


I did try something a bit different last night and spent a few minutes after my run/walk on the rower. It is a great overall workout, but since I have neck and shoulder issues, I try to take it easy. I only did a few minutes, but it certainly got me panting!

I'm pulling out an old DVD today to change things up. I did take a circuit training class a few years ago and really likedit! I loved the camadarie (sp?) of having the same folks there every week.... I loved the instructor/trainer, and I enjoyed challenging myself with some really different stuff! I guess I should look into taking a similar class where I am now.


Also, DS had his last scuba lesson & they turned the lights out in the pool. So his "night dive" was pretty cool. They used flashlights to look for "treasure" which was plastic coins, gems, & necklaces. He loved it! I think he & DH are going to get certified when DS turns 12. I still don't get it, but I know you have a water/scuba living DD

Okay...drums are finishing up, so I better run. Have a great night

Jill

Sounds like he is having a GREAT experience with the SCUBA class! When we visited the college last week, the Marine Science department head was talking about the advantage that kids with their SCUBA certification will having regarding certain opportunities, etc, DD was just about jumping out of her skin with excitement! I'm certain we will NEVER regret her doing getting certified!

Hi all!

The weekend was as busy as I expected, and I'm behind on my reading and my QOTDs...I don't think I'll catch up except for big hugs to Pamela - I'm sorry to hear about your uncle, and your family is very much in my thoughts.

Thanks!

Food attack - I made a cake for the school carnival's cake walk this weekend. While I was perusing the silent auction and class basket auctions, DD6 won on one of the cake walk turns and promptly chose Mommy's Cake. Oh boy. I *love* this cake. The good news is, at the rate DH and I are tearing through it (and DDs, to be fair), it'll be gone soon! :/

XO
Liz

Oh my! Well.... maybe you could freeze a few slices to save for another time???

1. Misty!
2. My friend. He never ceases to amaze me.
3. My husband. For many reasons mostly endless patience.
4. My kids. I haven't had this kind of freedom for years. It's nice their grown and I'm starting to really be able to let go in so many ways.
5. My beautiful angel kitties-- even the 'bad' one Harvey lol.
6. My parents. Again endless patience.
7. My job/the union.
8. Our house. I moved around a lot when I was young, had split custody with my parents between Illinois and Oregon. This house has been my home longer than any place I lived.

Nice that you have SO MANY blessings!


Because I want my tattoo. Ha.
Cut back on drinking-- that's been a lot easier than I thought, and I love riding my bike to work now. It means a lot to me too consuming less fuel. I really wanted a bio diesel car or some kind of car with amazing gas mileage and ended up falling in love with a little red truck. It does get great mileage for what it is but I feel I'm balancing out the mileage with biking to work, the gym, the store. It's come in handy too.

I love that your concern for the environment and your concern for your health can combine into an activity that will benefit BOTH!

You've had a week Pam-- sorry 'bout stuff, you are kind of an amazing woman...

Awww... thanks!

Pam - so glad to hear your uncle is doing better!

Thanks so much!

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

Happy Tuesday to friends! No Bible study today due to voting, so I have today at home. Of course, that does NOT mean that I have nothing to do! In fact, I have SO much to do that I am SURE that it will not all get done today.

First priority will be to throw in just one load of laundry, make the beds, and then get a solid 30 minute (or more) workout.

Then I must spend some time in the kitchen. I have last night's chicken carcass magically transforming into some lovely chicken stock for future use. I also bought a quantity of ground beef, beans, and veggies to make some healthy meatballs for the freezer. And of course, there is always sweeping, dusting, vaccuming, toilet cleaning, etc that calls to me and I must shower and make myself presentable!

I have to pick up DD at 3pm, dash home for just a bit, and then head to the chiropractor for 4:45 appointments for both of us. From there it will be straight to the Y for t-shirt making (that got postponed from yesterday) and then swim practice. Somehow DS needs to be picked up an hour NORTH from practice during that time (DH is away).... not sure how that is going to happen yet. Working on it.

Last chance to get in weigh-ins from last weekend. I will be working on updating page one today as well!!

I will answer the QOTD later, after some of you have had a chance to respond!.......................P

 

[pjlla]

Oh my GOSH! I killed it... I killed the thread! Where is everyone today???

Hoping you all are busy staying healthy and enjoying life! I'll be back later hopefully to chat!......................P

 

[nocomment711]

I've never done a 5K before, but I can't run or walk long distances (granted that's on a treadmill). My shins just aren't up for the task.

It's something to work on.

I prefer Zumba and nia to running.

 

[Lindaland]

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

I would have to say that my restriction would be mostly physical. I have RA and with my weight the way it is, my MD has told me not to take up jogging, running or any impact aerobics at this point. I would love to do the C25K one of these days so in order to get to that point (and to one day achieve my secret goal of doing a Disney half marathon), I need to loose weight before I can even begin. This has allowed me to explore other exercise options. I bought a recumbent bike so I am not stressing my joints and I do what I call "floor work" which is crunches, leg lifts & squats. I also bought one of those over-the-door pulley systems for arm & shoulder exercises along with small weights. I love using the bike!! I get a great workout without any joint pain and feel a wonderful sense of accomplishment when I use it. My DD, who also battles with weight, is also starting to use it!!

Also I have to say that joining this group and getting such a warm welcome and support from all of you has been an unexpected gift that I enjoy daily!! You give me such great encouragement and I love the daily questions, even if I do tend to ramble a bit in my answers! Thank you all for being here.

 

[Flossbolna]

Also I have to say that joining this group and getting such a warm welcome and support from all of you has been an unexpected gift that I enjoy daily!! You give me such great encouragement and I love the daily questions, even if I do tend to ramble a bit in my answers! Thank you all for being here.

Yes, this group here is a great support system! And I love it that it is so accessible - I can jump in from work or home. And I even look at it on my phone when I am in the city and tempted to get a muffin at Starbucks with my coffee.

And don't worry about rambling! I love to read what everybody has to say!


As to the QOTD:

At first I had no idea about how to answer it. But now - after a 12.5 hour day at the office and then arriving home after 9pm and then still getting into my workout cloth and starting my workout DVD I realise how a restriction became a celebration for me!

I always said that I had so much trouble exercising when my work life got busy. I love running, but only outside and I can't really run outside when it is dark. After 12.5 hours at work like today, the last thing I want to do is travel to the gym, get changed, do my stuff, take a shower and travel home. I want to spend time at home. The one thing that appealed to me when I first looked at the 30DS was that it was a shortish workout and I could do it at home. So I decided to give it a try. And it turns out that this is just the right type of exercise to be incorporated into my life. It's fun, challenging and does not eat up all of my spare time! So my time limitation as lead me to a new workout that I love!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

ok, this is a very, very hard one for me. Seriously.
I did fine with eating less and eating healthy until the whole gluten free thing.
I love exercising, except for the chronic injuries which don't heal.
Whine, whine, whine--I know.

The only thing that keeps me sane is knowing deep down that I am healthier for all of this. It was a ridiculously painful way to get healthy, but at the end of it all it is a good thing.

I can celebrate the fact that there is pinterest and I have access to all kinds of fun recipes and the fact that even though I am probably not going to get the half pr that I wanted this year, I am on day 71/365 of moving at least a mile (68 days of running and 3 days of walking).

Mike and I are also making plans to do some biking this summer and we have started exploring some of the parks in our area.

So while I am still a little sad about the running injuries and frustrated with the food, I can find positives in all of it.

 

[jillbur]

It's a whole other AMAZING world under the waves Jill. Trust me on this one!!

I'm sure it is amazing! But, I will trust you and let other enjoy it

QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

I have to give this some thought

Sounds like he is having a GREAT experience with the SCUBA class! When we visited the college last week, the Marine Science department head was talking about the advantage that kids with their SCUBA certification will having regarding certain opportunities, etc, DD was just about jumping out of her skin with excitement! I'm certain we will NEVER regret her doing getting certified!

That is so great for your DD! It sounds like she is going to have an awesome time!

Oh my GOSH! I killed it... I killed the thread! Where is everyone today???

Hoping you all are busy staying healthy and enjoying life! I'll be back later hopefully to chat!......................P

This post made me crack up! Thanks for the laugh!

I've never done a 5K before, but I can't run or walk long distances (granted that's on a treadmill). My shins just aren't up for the task.

It's something to work on.

I prefer Zumba and nia to running.

5Ks are so much fun! We have a lot in this area and most are for runners or walkers. There's no pressure to finish in a certain amount of time. If you decide to do it, I'm sure you'll have a great time with your coworkers.

Yes, this group here is a great support system! And I love it that it is so accessible - I can jump in from work or home. And I even look at it on my phone when I am in the city and tempted to get a muffin at Starbucks with my coffee.

And don't worry about rambling! I love to read what everybody has to say!


As to the QOTD:

At first I had no idea about how to answer it. But now - after a 12.5 hour day at the office and then arriving home after 9pm and then still getting into my workout cloth and starting my workout DVD I realise how a restriction became a celebration for me!

I always said that I had so much trouble exercising when my work life got busy. I love running, but only outside and I can't really run outside when it is dark. After 12.5 hours at work like today, the last thing I want to do is travel to the gym, get changed, do my stuff, take a shower and travel home. I want to spend time at home. The one thing that appealed to me when I first looked at the 30DS was that it was a shortish workout and I could do it at home. So I decided to give it a try. And it turns out that this is just the right type of exercise to be incorporated into my life. It's fun, challenging and does not eat up all of my spare time! So my time limitation as lead me to a new workout that I love!

I love your positive attitude! I really cannot bring myself to workout late, but if that was my only choice, I guess I'd have to do it. Good for you!

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

Hello all! I do not have much time tonight. I spent my planning period today watching the PSSA training video for administering the test (PA state test) and taking a test on it. I passed I read online that it cost $250,000 to design this training & test for PA teachers. Too bad they didn't spend that money directly on students

I ended up taking an exercise break today to rest my legs from running. I think I'll do some stretching after my kids go to bed. So, since I had extra time, I cleaned DS9's closet. Yikes! He also organized his Legos and we organized a bunch of other stuff. Now, I have to do DS6's room. He is good at making a mess and hiding things in there!

Sorry I don't have more time to catch up. I better get DSs off to bed and get myself organized for my day tomorrow. Have a good night.

Jill

 

[pjlla]

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

I turned my calorie restrictions into a celebration by finding new HEALTHIER treats that are lower in calories! I can celebrate eating healthy by having a big salad topped with organic black beans and organic avocado.... I LOVE the taste, it really is a treat! And I can celebrate eating healthy! If I wasn't trying to restrict my calories, I might have indulged in fast food for dinner instead!

Since there are times that my IT Band issues get so bad, I have to stop running for a while. In order to stay in shape, I jump on my elliptical instead. I don't really like it that much, but it's better than sitting on the couch stuffing my yap! Now I don't see it as much as a punishment, but an alternative to doing nothing.

Nice job finding an alternative exercise!

I would have to say that my restriction would be mostly physical. I have RA and with my weight the way it is, my MD has told me not to take up jogging, running or any impact aerobics at this point. I would love to do the C25K one of these days so in order to get to that point (and to one day achieve my secret goal of doing a Disney half marathon), I need to loose weight before I can even begin. This has allowed me to explore other exercise options. I bought a recumbent bike so I am not stressing my joints and I do what I call "floor work" which is crunches, leg lifts & squats. I also bought one of those over-the-door pulley systems for arm & shoulder exercises along with small weights. I love using the bike!! I get a great workout without any joint pain and feel a wonderful sense of accomplishment when I use it. My DD, who also battles with weight, is also starting to use it!!

Also I have to say that joining this group and getting such a warm welcome and support from all of you has been an unexpected gift that I enjoy daily!! You give me such great encouragement and I love the daily questions, even if I do tend to ramble a bit in my answers! Thank you all for being here.

Good for you for not throwing in the towel regarding exercising with restrictions! Most folks would have used those restrictions as an excuse to give up!

Glad you are loving our little part of the DIS world! I can honestly say this group is a HUGE part of my life!

Yes, this group here is a great support system! And I love it that it is so accessible - I can jump in from work or home. And I even look at it on my phone when I am in the city and tempted to get a muffin at Starbucks with my coffee.

And don't worry about rambling! I love to read what everybody has to say!

Come on.... no one rambles (on and on and on about the most USELESS STUFF) better than ME!!

As to the QOTD:

At first I had no idea about how to answer it. But now - after a 12.5 hour day at the office and then arriving home after 9pm and then still getting into my workout cloth and starting my workout DVD I realise how a restriction became a celebration for me!

I always said that I had so much trouble exercising when my work life got busy. I love running, but only outside and I can't really run outside when it is dark. After 12.5 hours at work like today, the last thing I want to do is travel to the gym, get changed, do my stuff, take a shower and travel home. I want to spend time at home. The one thing that appealed to me when I first looked at the 30DS was that it was a shortish workout and I could do it at home. So I decided to give it a try. And it turns out that this is just the right type of exercise to be incorporated into my life. It's fun, challenging and does not eat up all of my spare time! So my time limitation as lead me to a new workout that I love!

WONDERFUL ANSWER!!! Just what I was hoping to hear from someone!

ok, this is a very, very hard one for me. Seriously.
I did fine with eating less and eating healthy until the whole gluten free thing.
I love exercising, except for the chronic injuries which don't heal.
Whine, whine, whine--I know.

The only thing that keeps me sane is knowing deep down that I am healthier for all of this. It was a ridiculously painful way to get healthy, but at the end of it all it is a good thing.

I can celebrate the fact that there is pinterest and I have access to all kinds of fun recipes and the fact that even though I am probably not going to get the half pr that I wanted this year, I am on day 71/365 of moving at least a mile (68 days of running and 3 days of walking).

Mike and I are also making plans to do some biking this summer and we have started exploring some of the parks in our area.

So while I am still a little sad about the running injuries and frustrated with the food, I can find positives in all of it.

I must honestly say that I was thinking a lot of you when I posted this. The blog was talking mostly about food restrictions like CD, food allergies, etc and finding healthy new ways to eat well. I know you have struggled SO MUCH with the GF/vegetarian eating combo. And it seems like you have been PLAGUED by injuries over the last 6+ months. But you have NEVER given up! You are a HUGE inspiration to me! I know you are struggling to get back to your goal weight, as well.... but here you are, still with us, still working hard at staying healthy and active.

That is so great for your DD! It sounds like she is going to have an awesome time!

I agree!

Hello all! I do not have much time tonight. I spent my planning period today watching the PSSA training video for administering the test (PA state test) and taking a test on it. I passed I read online that it cost $250,000 to design this training & test for PA teachers. Too bad they didn't spend that money directly on students

I ended up taking an exercise break today to rest my legs from running. I think I'll do some stretching after my kids go to bed. So, since I had extra time, I cleaned DS9's closet. Yikes! He also organized his Legos and we organized a bunch of other stuff. Now, I have to do DS6's room. He is good at making a mess and hiding things in there!

Sorry I don't have more time to catch up. I better get DSs off to bed and get myself organized for my day tomorrow. Have a good night.

Jill

Glad the test planning/prep is behind you! Good way to spend your day off exercising, by cleaning closets! Wanna come do few of mine??

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

Evening friends! Got a few unexpected minutes here between dropping off and picking up kids to say hello.

Trying to stay busy, as I am having one of those evenings where I want to eat everything that isn't nailed down! It is almost a certainty that I will end up using some of my Flexpoints tonight, as I still am a bit hungry but only have one Point left!

Gotta fly for now.... picking up DS at the high school at 9pm and then we will dash to the next town over to pick up DD. I managed to arrange for her to get a ride at least half way home from practice tonight, so I don't have to do that two hour roundtrip ride TWICE!

See you in the morning!..............P

 

[araes2102]

Happy Monday friends!

QOTD for Monday, March 11, 2013:

Tell me why it is DIFFERENT this time, this journey to health. Why are you going to be succesful? What steps have you taken to insure continued weight loss/weight maintenance??

Sorry to be so MIA over the weekend and I am at work today. I may have a bit of time when the kids head to recess about 11 am and I will try to pop on then!...........P

Well for me the chnage is that I am willing to do the work this time! Which, for the first time in my life includes real exercise... about an hour or two 5-6 days per week! And I LIKE exercising now, and I feel yucky when I don't. Amazing for me! Plus I do watch what I eat, which I have of course done every time I tried to lose weight, but I am now trying to really NOT think in terms of "doing it right" and "cheating," just eating clean 99% of the time and occaisionally fitting in something I would consider a treat.

Morning all of my friends! I received an interesting email from one of the healthy blogs that I follow and it has inspired this QOTD.


QOTD for Tuesday, March 12, 2013:

How can you turn your RESTRICTIONS into CELEBRATIONS?

Rather than moaning and groaning about not being able to eat something because you are allergic, or intolerant, or just plain "avoiding" that food (for health reasons or Lent or any other reason), let's find an alternative (food, recipe, ingredient) and a reason to CELEBRATE!

Instead of complaining that you can't run/walk/bike or _____________ because of an injury, lack of gym access, or something, let's celebrate what you CAN DO! Perhaps you couldn't run any more so you found out that you love YOGA!

Hmm, this is a hard one. I guess for me it is hard because I don't think I have restrictions... I am in good health (other than my weight) and have no food restrictions, and no injuries... So I guess THAT is something to celebrate! I am the only thing holding me back and I am ready to conquer ME!

Oh my GOSH! I killed it... I killed the thread! Where is everyone today???

Hoping you all are busy staying healthy and enjoying life! I'll be back later hopefully to chat!......................P

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

I have been MIA I have just been so busy at work I haven't had time to keep up! I also did not exercise yesterday But I was tired that I went to bed at 8:30 I need to get back into the swing of things tonight, planning to watch my DVRd episode of Biggest Loser and do some strength :yes:

 

[DisFam95]

ugh Spring break craziness w/ planning play dates w/ everyone!! Busy day. Had a munchie attack and was eating some soft gingerbread cookies I found from from Christmas (sealed). They're some kind of German or swiss cookie I think w/ an icing on them.

Our neighbors house caught fire and the mom got out but could not get to her baby!! A neighbor had to make 3 attempts to break windows and run in to find the 2 year old before the firefighters got there!!!!!!!!! OM Freakin G I can't even imagine

Everyone is ok but it's a total loss. Needless to say we had our family meeting tonight and reviewed all options and techniques for getting out of our house - please do the same w/ your family if you have not already.

I have such bad pms I swear. I want to eat everything!!

Focus
Focus
Focus!

Hoping for a better day tomorrow!

 

[Lindaland]

So excited I can access this page from work!!!!

I guess I should be doing work (hahaha) but there are these down times..... right?

Hope everyone is having a great night!

 

[Lindaland]

Everyone is ok but it's a total loss. Needless to say we had our family meeting tonight and reviewed all options and techniques for getting out of our house - please do the same w/ your family if you have not already.

I have such bad pms I swear. I want to eat everything!!

Focus
Focus
Focus!

Hoping for a better day tomorrow!

That is SUCH a great idea that we never do enough!!! We established a plan when we moved in about 1&1/2 years ago, but we should really review it!

Here's to having a better day tomorrow!

 

[Lindaland]

I turned my calorie restrictions into a celebration by finding new HEALTHIER treats that are lower in calories! I can celebrate eating healthy by having a big salad topped with organic black beans and organic avocado.... I LOVE the taste, it really is a treat! And I can celebrate eating healthy! If I wasn't trying to restrict my calories, I might have indulged in fast food for dinner instead!
.............P

I felt this way trying to have meatless monday's. It was like a tasty treasure hunt trying to find good recipes that would mesh with my low carb diet.

 

[pjlla]

Good Wednesday morning to you all!

QOTD for Wednesday, March 13, 2013:


Are you a THRILL seeker? Do you love rollercoasters? Would you jump at the chance to go skydiving or bungy jumping? Do you head straight to Expedition Everest or Tower of Terror while at Disney? What kind of thrilling adventures have you undertaken in your life? What kinds of thrills are still out there waiting for you?

If you said a huge NO to thrill seeking, then how do YOU get excitement and adventure into your life??

 

[pjlla]

Well for me the chnage is that I am willing to do the work this time! Which, for the first time in my life includes real exercise... about an hour or two 5-6 days per week! And I LIKE exercising now, and I feel yucky when I don't. Amazing for me! Plus I do watch what I eat, which I have of course done every time I tried to lose weight, but I am now trying to really NOT think in terms of "doing it right" and "cheating," just eating clean 99% of the time and occaisionally fitting in something I would consider a treat.

Those are WONDERFUL changes! It sounds like you have made a total lifestyle transformation!

Hmm, this is a hard one. I guess for me it is hard because I don't think I have restrictions... I am in good health (other than my weight) and have no food restrictions, and no injuries... So I guess THAT is something to celebrate! I am the only thing holding me back and I am ready to conquer ME!

Glad you can celebrate HEALTH!



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

I have been MIA I have just been so busy at work I haven't had time to keep up! I also did not exercise yesterday But I was tired that I went to bed at 8:30 I need to get back into the swing of things tonight, planning to watch my DVRd episode of Biggest Loser and do some strength :yes:

Sometimes SLEEP is the best thing for us! Maybe your body is fighting an infection or virus??

ugh Spring break craziness w/ planning play dates w/ everyone!! Busy day. Had a munchie attack and was eating some soft gingerbread cookies I found from from Christmas (sealed). They're some kind of German or swiss cookie I think w/ an icing on them.

Step away from the cookies!!

Our neighbors house caught fire and the mom got out but could not get to her baby!! A neighbor had to make 3 attempts to break windows and run in to find the 2 year old before the firefighters got there!!!!!!!!! OM Freakin G I can't even imagine

Everyone is ok but it's a total loss. Needless to say we had our family meeting tonight and reviewed all options and techniques for getting out of our house - please do the same w/ your family if you have not already.

So sorry for your neighbor, but THRILLED that everyone is okay. I am not a high anxiety person, but I have been somewhat fire-phobic since I was in elementary school. We used to go over evacuation drills when the kids were little, but haven't done it in a LONG time. Thanks for the reminder !!


I have such bad pms I swear. I want to eat everything!!

Focus
Focus
Focus!

Hoping for a better day tomorrow!

I know the feeling!!

So excited I can access this page from work!!!!

I guess I should be doing work (hahaha) but there are these down times..... right?

Hope everyone is having a great night!

Glad you found a way to visit occasionally!

I felt this way trying to have meatless monday's. It was like a tasty treasure hunt trying to find good recipes that would mesh with my low carb diet.

Love that bolded statement!!

Meatless AND low carb are exceedingly difficult to mesh. Nut butters/nuts and cheese are the first things that comes to mind. Dh eats low carb and tolerates some beans, but not many. He doesn't care for tofu and most veggie burgers/veggie meat substitutes are pretty high carb (corn, beans, etc). I sometimes bend the rules for Meatless Monday and serve eggs to DH. I also have a few vegetable soup recipes that have a bit of carbs in them (flour or potato) and he will tolerate those as well.... that being said, he is in a maintenance phase and not being that strict. I would NOT have given him these items during Atkins Phase 1.

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

Top O' the Mornin' to ya today !! Getting my "Irish" on in preparation for St. Patrick's Day coming up!! I LOVE ME some corned beef and cabbage, but haven't made it in many years. DH is NOT a picky eater, but cabbage is one thing he can't stand.... and the kids don't like it either. Plus corned beef is SO fatty and salty. But I may break down and buy a small one and a small head of cabbage and make a boiled dinner one night next week (we are too busy with swim over the weekend to attempt it). I figure the family can tolerate it for one night to make me happy!

For those who are praying for my uncle, thank you. It appears he will pull through, although the doctors are saying it was a SEVERE heart attack.

And for those who are praying for my SIL, thank you and KEEP IT UP. We got an email from our niece today, who is visiting with her Mom right now.... she said the scan shows that the breast cancer has spread to her skull, collarbone, thoracic spine, lumbar spine, cervical spine, upper left arm, shoulder, and hip bones. While this sounds DREADFUL, we are all still grateful is isn't in any organs. She will be starting IV chemo as soon as they put in a port. She had started oral chemo, but apparently couldn't tolerate it. The chemo will be administered every three weeks and go on indefinitely.

DD was asking me today about having friends over after prom.... and I said "SURE!" "Invite all your friends and their dates!" WHAT WAS I THINKING??? No, honestly, this is a wonderful group of kids and I'm sure there won't be any trouble. She wants to do a Disney movie marathon (several of them are big Disney fans, like DD). I told her I would provide food, drinks, and even make a big breakfast in the morning. They can use the hot tub (probably not the pool.... it will still be too cold) and have the entire play room to watch movies, eat, goof around, play Just Dance... whatever they want! We don't have many neighbors, so even if they spill out into the yard during the night, it won't bother anyone (but me). She hasn't had much time to spend with friends and have a social life, with all of her swimming, so this will definitely be a memorable event. Plus it will keep the kids safe!

Saving my workout time for when I will be at the Y tonight. I will be spending my day here CLEANING! This house is a DISASTER! I have a few more weeks of craziness with swim, theater, and robotics.... and then life will calm down significantly.....just in time for Prom season, AP exams, finals, and GRADUATION!!

Anyone have any great new recipes to share? I've got two new ones I'm off to post on the BL/WISH recipe thread right now!...................P

 

[Flossbolna]

Good Wednesday morning to you all!

QOTD for Wednesday, March 13, 2013:


Are you a THRILL seeker? Do you love rollercoasters? Would you jump at the chance to go skydiving or bungy jumping? Do you head straight to Expedition Everest or Tower of Terror while at Disney? What kind of thrilling adventures have you undertaken in your life? What kinds of thrills are still out there waiting for you?

If you said a huge NO to thrill seeking, then how do YOU get excitement and adventure into your life??

I am easily scared, but I love thrills and it seems that the older I get the adventurous I become. Especially with regard to theme park rides!

But the biggest thrill to me is still hiking in the mountains. On a roller coaster I expect it to be a ride that many people work towards it being as safe as possible. If you are on a rocky trail in the mountains with a wall on one side and the abyss on the other, it is just up to you to be safe. However, I still am only on trails where you can safely walk without using rope and harness. But I am thinking about learning how to do that as well. I am just afraid that I will be a total failure since I am afraid of heights...

 

[PlutoBaby]

Good Wednesday morning to you all!

QOTD for Wednesday, March 13, 2013:


Are you a THRILL seeker? Do you love rollercoasters? Would you jump at the chance to go skydiving or bungy jumping? Do you head straight to Expedition Everest or Tower of Terror while at Disney? What kind of thrilling adventures have you undertaken in your life? What kinds of thrills are still out there waiting for you?

If you said a huge NO to thrill seeking, then how do YOU get excitement and adventure into your life??

Yes and no. Yes, because even with all the anxiety I feel before getting on Rockin-Roller Coaster or Space Mountain, I still love it once it gets going. But I draw the line at ToT. Can't stand that drop!!

I have "jump out of a perfectly good airplane" on my bucket list, but who knows if I'll ever get to do it. The DH won't and I think he'd freak if I did. My cousin jumped out of planes for 13 years in the Army, so if I went with him, he might not have as big a heart attack.

And as weird as it may sound, falling in love with the DH was definitely one of the biggest non-adrenaline thrills of my life. He always says it took us 40 years (and a few marriages between us), to find each other, and it had to happen that way for a reason. I absolutely agree that everything happens for a reason, and thank goodness this time it did happen the way it did!

 

[The Mystery Machine]

Good Morning!!! Still here.

How do I get fun and adventure into my life? We used to go boating but we sold our boat last yr. We still have jet skis but they need repair.

At the moment my thrills are reserved for gardening, landscaping, nature, parks, and flea market finds.

Maybe a concert or casino trip once a yr. Oh I do like exploring new restaurants if that counts because that can be an adventure.

I am so boring right now....sorry.

I used to love the theme parks and all that jazz but lately, just not interested.