WISH Away The Pounds~ Marvelous May 2014 Challenge! *All Welcome!*

[Rose&Mike]

I liked this one:

 

[Connie96]

I will be interested in hearing how that works for you, Connie! As someone else struggling with motivation now ITA that something new and radical may be just what the doctor ordered.

I've got a few FB friends who just rave about Plexus. I mean, they make it sound like some kind of miracle. And, heck, who couldn't use a miracle? So... I gotta give it a shot. And, if I achieve some decent success with the products, then my next goal is to achieve at least enough success with the business portion to offset my personal cost. To have products that work and get them for free... what could be better?

I will definitely keep you guys in the loop and let you know how it works for me. I think I'll get my shipment by Thursday-ish of this week.

Congrats on hitting your step goal every day, Connie, that is something to celebrate!

That app looks really interesting. I use RunKeeper quite often for running because I can set it to any interval I like. It does suck the life out of my phone though so I can't use it for really long runs. Anything that helps you to move more is great in my book. I have been known to do some laps around the house to get my activity monitor to get to 100% so I do think that these things can help motivate you.

You are so nice to be our "guinea pig" and report about all the fun things to us!

I use RunKeeper too. When I run. Which hasn't been since last Summer.

Lol about laps around the house. I did laps up and down my back yard on Sunday evening because I was such a total lazy bum all day. I was about 2000 steps short and I didn't want to miss my goal and have to start my "streak" over after getting a few days under my belt.

And... if I try anything else new, I'll let y'all know.

 

[Rose&Mike]

Awfully quiet around here.

I use Runkeeper too.

No chips, no coke. Considering today a success.

Hope everyone is having a good Wednesday!

 

[jillbur]

Thought this was great!
Exactly how I feel some days--doing good, doing good, oops eating everything in sight.

Sadly, that must be me in that picture. I do so good during the day then I snack at night.

Hope you enjoyed your family night! I cannot WAIT to have one with the four of us this weekend!!!!!

Thanks! I'm sure your 2 weeks with all four of you will be so much fun. Have you and DD been to Niagara before? We usually go every summer but haven't been in a couple years. We are about 3.5 hours away so it's a great short trip. What all do you have planned?

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

Hey friends! Finally got a day here at home and I STILL am tardy getting the QOTD posted. I should be FIRED!!

I'm picking up DD tomorrow for TWO WHOLE WEEKS of fun and freedom from school (well, at least for HER) and I am feeling like a kid on the day before Christmas!! She has busted her BUTT this year in school and has made me proud every day! She has dealt with SO MUCH stress with the obvious "freshman" type of stress, living away from home for the first time, the whole swim team situation, meeting new people, and obviously school work plus a real job for the first time! She has managed it like a BOSS! That being said, she has not really had any kind of break. She was only home at Christmas time for a little over a week before she went back to live on campus and work on a research project for a professor. Then she was home for spring break, but had tons of school work and got a bad cold part of the week, so it wasn't exactly fun and relaxing. So here we go.... two weeks of just FUN and RELAXING (I hope!).

Well, today is an early release day at school, so I will need to head out at lunch time to pick up DS plus today is my WW meeting day, so I need to spend some time prepping for that, so here comes the QOTD and I'll BBL to chat a bit more!..................P

Fun and relaxing probably sounds good to DD (and the rest of you)!

QOTD for Tuesday, May 13, 2014:


What do you consider your three biggest TIPS to leading a healthy/healthier lifestyle???

1. Track all your food
2. Drink lots of water
3. Find an exercise that you enjoy and have fun doing it

(If I could add a 4th it would be don't give up. You'll have ups and downs, but never give in and throw in the towel. It's not worth it)

and personal 4) don't be afraid to say no to all the food your nana offers! I love her, but man she is a constant destroyer...but always the first to point out a weight gain.

This made me Grandmas are the best

****

This is my first adult vacation that I've had to do everything myself. Anyone have any do not forgets that you would suggest bringing? Already got the Brita water bottles for the parks so we stay hydrated and aren't tempted by soda!

My advice is not to forget the sunscreen. And, reapply! Also, remember all your chargers for phones, camera, etc.

Of course, I pack the whole house just in case lol. There are some great lists online if you look up Disney packing lists. DH thinks I'm crazy for bringing every otc med I own, but I usually use some (and so does he).

If you have any more questions, just ask!

Hope you enjoyed your unexpected family night, Jill! How many days until summer? (Not that I think you are counting or anything. )

We did, thanks! And...15 more school days! But, who's counting

Jill--how is the foot??

Hope everyone is having a good Tuesday.

Actually, it isn't too bad. I've been trying to roll my legs and foot daily. It really only hurts after I stop exercising. I can walk 8 miles fine and after I stop and sit down, it hurts when I get up and walk again. I am taking advice to wear shoes at all times and it is definitely helping. Thanks for asking

How's the pup?

Awfully quiet around here.

I use Runkeeper too.

No chips, no coke. Considering today a success.

Hope everyone is having a good Wednesday!

I also use Runkeeper.
Great job with the chips and coke!


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

Hello all! I thought I would have more time to check in at work, but I am administering state tests this week, so I can not be on the computer. I am getting a lot of grading and reading done, though!

I don't have too much to chat about tonight. We have some pretty nasty storms heading our way, so I thought I better check in in case we lose power or phone (internet). I am planning to spend a little time tonight looking for some new healthy recipes for summer (as long as I have internet). I usually use Skinny Taste and Skinny Ms. Any other suggestions for healthy recipe websites? I would love to find more recipes that all 4 of us will eat so I am not making a meal for 2 or 3 of us while the other/s eat something else.

DSs just went on the front porch to watch the storms roll in (thunder is getting closer) so I am going to head out with them. Have a great night!

Jill

Btw~I did it! Last night I registered for the Rock N Roll Half in Cleveland! Yikes! I walked a half with my sister last year and we are walking one in June, but this will be the first I run (and walk a little). Anyone want to join me??

 

[myweegirls]

Hi!

Having a stressful week work and homewise...work has been so piled on lately, but today I got some welcome news that a part of my portfolio (my least favorite part) is getting transitioned to someone else. This will actually make my workload manageable again, and I'll be able to actually devote time to the projects I'm supposed to be doing instead of dealing with the devils in the details! It's supposed to be a long transition, and it's all I can do not to dump the files on the new person and run.

At home, DD7 has her second UTI in as many weeks. Poor kiddo has been dealing with constipation issues for two years, and she's had a few of these. Every time I think we've turned a corner, it sneaks back. Today our doctor recommended that we get an ultrasound of her bladder and kidneys to make sure there aren't any trouble spots. She's back on a different antibiotic for this infection, and hopefully this time it won't come back.

But even with today going a bit haywire, I still got out for a 3 mile run in the misty almost-rain tonight! I had about given up, and then I realized I had enough daylight and that we didn't have a thunderstorm bearing down on us. Tomorrow's a no-go because I have to commute early for a board meeting, so I'm especially glad to have gotten this in.

Now to do more work, but this time planted in front of the TV.

XO
Liz

 

[lisah0711]

And... if I try anything else new, I'll let y'all know.

Thanks Connie!

Awfully quiet around here.

I use Runkeeper too.

No chips, no coke. Considering today a success.

Hope everyone is having a good Wednesday!

on no chips and coke, Rose!

It is quiet around here -- busy spring time!

(If I could add a 4th it would be don't give up. You'll have ups and downs, but never give in and throw in the towel. It's not worth it)

True dat!

We did, thanks! And...15 more school days! But, who's counting

I just hope the summer passes as slowly as the last few days of school do.

But even with today going a bit haywire, I still got out for a 3 mile run in the misty almost-rain tonight! I had about given up, and then I realized I had enough daylight and that we didn't have a thunderstorm bearing down on us. Tomorrow's a no-go because I have to commute early for a board meeting, so I'm especially glad to have gotten this in.

Busy times at your house, Liz, way to get that activity in!

for speedy and complete healing for your poor DD.

I think I am starting my coaching gig tomorrow -- someone please let me know if I am wrong!

 

[Connie96]

Awfully quiet around here.

I checked the thread several times yesterday and, best I could tell, it was just me and the crickets.

No chips, no coke. Considering today a success.

Sounds like success to me.

Any other suggestions for healthy recipe websites? I would love to find more recipes that all 4 of us will eat so I am not making a meal for 2 or 3 of us while the other/s eat something else.

I don’t know about websites but I really like the Biggest Loser Family Cookbook. Lots of family-friendly stuff in there.

Btw~I did it! Last night I registered for the Rock N Roll Half in Cleveland! Yikes! I walked a half with my sister last year and we are walking one in June, but this will be the first I run (and walk a little).

Awesome! I need to put a race on my calendar sometime soon. I’m so out of shape that a 5k would be stretch at the moment but, I’d love to get back up to doing halves again. Good luck to you!

Hi!
Having a stressful week work and homewise...work has been so piled on lately, but today I got some welcome news that a part of my portfolio (my least favorite part) is getting transitioned to someone else. This will actually make my workload manageable again, and I'll be able to actually devote time to the projects I'm supposed to be doing instead of dealing with the devils in the details! It's supposed to be a long transition, and it's all I can do not to dump the files on the new person and run.

At home, DD7 has her second UTI in as many weeks. Poor kiddo has been dealing with constipation issues for two years, and she's had a few of these. Every time I think we've turned a corner, it sneaks back. Today our doctor recommended that we get an ultrasound of her bladder and kidneys to make sure there aren't any trouble spots. She's back on a different antibiotic for this infection, and hopefully this time it won't come back.

But even with today going a bit haywire, I still got out for a 3 mile run in the misty almost-rain tonight! I had about given up, and then I realized I had enough daylight and that we didn't have a thunderstorm bearing down on us. Tomorrow's a no-go because I have to commute early for a board meeting, so I'm especially glad to have gotten this in.

Now to do more work, but this time planted in front of the TV.

XO
Liz

Liz, all the work stuff sounds SO familiar to me. I mean, I could have written it. Mine finally got to the point that I accepted a position in another department at my company because I just really couldn’t take it anymore. 7 years of exhaustion and frustration is now gone. And I’m so glad of that but I’m also disappointed because I loved what my old job was *supposed to be* but really hated what it had actually come to be. And, I often worked in the evenings in front of the TV too. Seriously. We could be twins. I hope that your transition is successful and quick as possible.

So sorry that your daughter is sick. That just sounds miserable. I hope y'all find some answers soon.

I think I am starting my coaching gig tomorrow -- someone please let me know if I am wrong!

I don’t know if it’s right or not but, sounds good to me. for Coach Lisa!

----------------------------------------------------
I received my first Plexus shipment yesterday so today is *Day 1*. So far just this morning, I can say that I do feel a little bit more awake and energetic. Which is nice because I'm not typically a morning person. So far so good.

Today is also my sweet daughter's 7th birthday. Wow! I have no idea where the years went but... what a wonderfully sweet ride it has been so far.

Happy Thursday, ladies!

 

[bigsis1970]

Just a quick flyby posting a pic of myself, DS and Hubs from Prom on saturday... I hope to be on tomorrow.. till then everyone take care..

 

[pjlla]

VERY belated QOTD for Thursday, May 15, 2014:

How do you/would you handle INTENSE stress WITHOUT food? Meditation? Yoga? Therapy? Prayer?

 

[pjlla]

Happy Thursday all! SO VERY SORRY I missed yesterday's QOTD. I absolutely forgot about it in the morning, then it popped into my head while driving to DD's, but then slipped out again until....NOW!

Hoping and praying you all are well and having a lovely week! I will try to find some time tonight to come on and catch up, but right now I am trying to help DD sort/organize all of the stuff she brought home and catch up on laundry.... plus DS had his braces off this morning, so I was out of the house for a while. His teeth look really good!

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

 

[Connie96]

Just a quick flyby posting a pic of myself, DS and Hubs from Prom on saturday... I hope to be on tomorrow.. till then everyone take care..

Nice pic, Michelle! I have been loving all the prom photos everyone is posting on FB and such. All these "kids" looking so grown-up!

VERY belated QOTD for Thursday, May 15, 2014:

How do you/would you handle INTENSE stress WITHOUT food? Meditation? Yoga? Therapy? Prayer?

I need to watch everyone's answers on this one and see if I can pick a new stress reliever. That whole stress eating thing is what's made me the woman I am today. Not cool.

I do think prayer and Bible study can help a lot. When stressful things happen, I think that if we can shift our focus from ourselves to loving God by reaching out to others - thinking more of meeting another's needs rather than dwelling on our own turmoil (real or imagined) - there is great relief to be had. I'm not saying that this is my gut reaction when stressful times come. But, it's something that I will aspire to.

Happy Thursday all! SO VERY SORRY I missed yesterday's QOTD. I absolutely forgot about it in the morning, then it popped into my head while driving to DD's, but then slipped out again until....NOW!

Hoping and praying you all are well and having a lovely week! I will try to find some time tonight to come on and catch up, but right now I am trying to help DD sort/organize all of the stuff she brought home and catch up on laundry.... plus DS had his braces off this morning, so I was out of the house for a while. His teeth look really good!

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

You were missed yesterday but, I'm certainly happy you're back today!

Sounds like you've got a busy day going! Glad you've got your DD home and I bet the whole family is enjoying your DS's new smile.

 

[pjlla]

I've got a few FB friends who just rave about Plexus. I mean, they make it sound like some kind of miracle. And, heck, who couldn't use a miracle? So... I gotta give it a shot. And, if I achieve some decent success with the products, then my next goal is to achieve at least enough success with the business portion to offset my personal cost. To have products that work and get them for free... what could be better?

That is kind of the way I am thinking about my WW meeting. I don't make a ton of money, but if someone PAID ME to attend WW, I'd be delighted! So this meeting is MY weekly WW meeting and I get a (tiny) paycheck! Hope it works out for you!


I use RunKeeper too. When I run. Which hasn't been since last Summer.

Summer is here again!

Lol about laps around the house. I did laps up and down my back yard on Sunday evening because I was such a total lazy bum all day. I was about 2000 steps short and I didn't want to miss my goal and have to start my "streak" over after getting a few days under my belt.

And... if I try anything else new, I'll let y'all know.

Whatever it takes! I did the stairs to DD's third floor dorm room 10 times yesterday (to load up the car) plus we walked to lunch and took a short walk along the beach.... so I was DEFINITELY considering that my mile for yesterday!

Awfully quiet around here.

I use Runkeeper too.

No chips, no coke. Considering today a success.

Hope everyone is having a good Wednesday!

Keep up the great work!!!

Fun and relaxing probably sounds good to DD (and the rest of you)!

I pray that we get at least ONE fun family evening while she is here, but of course, everything is kind of wonky right now with school committments for DS and such.


1. Track all your food
2. Drink lots of water
3. Find an exercise that you enjoy and have fun doing it

(If I could add a 4th it would be don't give up. You'll have ups and downs, but never give in and throw in the towel. It's not worth it)

Help me with #3 please!!!!


We did, thanks! And...15 more school days! But, who's counting

You are going to beat us to the finish by about 12 days!

Actually, it isn't too bad. I've been trying to roll my legs and foot daily. It really only hurts after I stop exercising. I can walk 8 miles fine and after I stop and sit down, it hurts when I get up and walk again. I am taking advice to wear shoes at all times and it is definitely helping. Thanks for asking

Glad you are finding some improvement!

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

Hello all! I thought I would have more time to check in at work, but I am administering state tests this week, so I can not be on the computer. I am getting a lot of grading and reading done, though!

I don't have too much to chat about tonight. We have some pretty nasty storms heading our way, so I thought I better check in in case we lose power or phone (internet). I am planning to spend a little time tonight looking for some new healthy recipes for summer (as long as I have internet). I usually use Skinny Taste and Skinny Ms. Any other suggestions for healthy recipe websites? I would love to find more recipes that all 4 of us will eat so I am not making a meal for 2 or 3 of us while the other/s eat something else.

PINTEREST!!! Loads and loads of great recipes there! If you can find someone to follow that has similar food tastes/requirements, that helps a lot.


DSs just went on the front porch to watch the storms roll in (thunder is getting closer) so I am going to head out with them. Have a great night!

Jill

LOVE watching a good storm roll in! Especially on vacation at the lake!

Btw~I did it! Last night I registered for the Rock N Roll Half in Cleveland! Yikes! I walked a half with my sister last year and we are walking one in June, but this will be the first I run (and walk a little). Anyone want to join me??

WISH I COULD (sort of.... just for the company, not for the running!). CONGRATS!

Hi!

Having a stressful week work and homewise...work has been so piled on lately, but today I got some welcome news that a part of my portfolio (my least favorite part) is getting transitioned to someone else. This will actually make my workload manageable again, and I'll be able to actually devote time to the projects I'm supposed to be doing instead of dealing with the devils in the details! It's supposed to be a long transition, and it's all I can do not to dump the files on the new person and run.

The better trained they are, the less likely it will be that they come back to you with problems, so take your time!!

At home, DD7 has her second UTI in as many weeks. Poor kiddo has been dealing with constipation issues for two years, and she's had a few of these. Every time I think we've turned a corner, it sneaks back. Today our doctor recommended that we get an ultrasound of her bladder and kidneys to make sure there aren't any trouble spots. She's back on a different antibiotic for this infection, and hopefully this time it won't come back.

SO sorry she is dealing with "issues". How about a nutritionist to help with the constipation??

But even with today going a bit haywire, I still got out for a 3 mile run in the misty almost-rain tonight! I had about given up, and then I realized I had enough daylight and that we didn't have a thunderstorm bearing down on us. Tomorrow's a no-go because I have to commute early for a board meeting, so I'm especially glad to have gotten this in.

Now to do more work, but this time planted in front of the TV.

XO
Liz

Good for you for getting the run in! My last run attempt was hampered by MAYFLIES!! YUCK!

It is quiet around here -- busy spring time!

Partially my fault for being MIA during my coaching stint!! SO SORRY!

I think I am starting my coaching gig tomorrow -- someone please let me know if I am wrong!

I'll check page one and let you know if anything looks different....otherwise I'm happy to hand over the (neglected) reins to you tomorrow!

I checked the thread several times yesterday and, best I could tell, it was just me and the crickets.

I have definitely had days like that here.... but don't give up on us.... we usually manage to come back strong!!

----------------------------------------------------
I received my first Plexus shipment yesterday so today is *Day 1*. So far just this morning, I can say that I do feel a little bit more awake and energetic. Which is nice because I'm not typically a morning person. So far so good.

GREAT!

Today is also my sweet daughter's 7th birthday. Wow! I have no idea where the years went but... what a wonderfully sweet ride it has been so far.

Happiest of birthdays to her!!

Happy Thursday, ladies!

Just a quick flyby posting a pic of myself, DS and Hubs from Prom on saturday... I hope to be on tomorrow.. till then everyone take care..

Great photo and HANDSOME son! Lucky girl who got to be his date! And you look great! I can definitely see a difference from the Disney picture you posted recently!!

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

Okay friends.... I SWEAR I'm in a time warp.... this day has flown by incredibly fast (as did yesterday). Why can't work days go like this?

Laundry is hung out, despite the heavy clouds, but I just noticed that the sun is trying HARD to peek out!!

I need to get out for today's mile before I head to the high school for tonight's event (Senior Expo and DS is doing a presentation with the Costa Rica group). Not even sure what I am doing about dinner yet! This week is just a total jumble!!

Thanks all for being patient with my slow/delayed/nonexistent QOTD this week... I really didn't mean to get so distracted with real life! Hope you are well and loving life and loving spring!

Today is the anniversary of the death of a friend's brother.... he died in a tragic car accident at the age of 21 (he was in the car with the drunk driver). Not that I would have remembered the exact date, but she posted a picture of her brother on FB. So take a minute to hug your spouse and your kiddos and thank the powers that be (whatever you believe) that they are there and safe.... because life can DEFINITELY change in the blink of an eye. Love to you all!......................P

 

[weswife]

Hello!

I would like to join this! I am a little confused about how it works but I will give it a shot!

A little about me!

I started my weight loss journey in Feb. So far I have lost 16.2 pounds! I have a looong way to go but I am on my way! My goals are small... to lose 10% of my body weight, 50 pounds by October for Disney and 80 pounds in total!

My weigh in for May

May 7 lost 3.8

May 14 lost 2.6

Having a great month so far!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Actually, it isn't too bad. I've been trying to roll my legs and foot daily. It really only hurts after I stop exercising. I can walk 8 miles fine and after I stop and sit down, it hurts when I get up and walk again. I am taking advice to wear shoes at all times and it is definitely helping. Thanks for asking

How's the pup?
I am planning to spend a little time tonight looking for some new healthy recipes for summer (as long as I have internet). I usually use Skinny Taste and Skinny Ms. Any other suggestions for healthy recipe websites? I would love to find more recipes that all 4 of us will eat so I am not making a meal for 2 or 3 of us while the other/s eat something else.

Btw~I did it! Last night I registered for the Rock N Roll Half in Cleveland! Yikes! I walked a half with my sister last year and we are walking one in June, but this will be the first I run (and walk a little). Anyone want to join me??

foot--try stretching your calf before you stand up. If it is hurting right when you start walking, then my understanding is that every time that happens you are creating tears and laying down scar tissue. You could also look at a strasburg sock to wear at night or even while you watch tv.

The puppy is doing ok. Healthy at this moment. We thought we were going to have to cancel our trip next week, but it looks like we are good to go.

I second pinterest. Let me know if you need an invite--I think they are still doing invites.

Congrats on the race registration!

Hi!

At home, DD7 has her second UTI in as many weeks. Poor kiddo has been dealing with constipation issues for two years, and she's had a few of these. Every time I think we've turned a corner, it sneaks back. Today our doctor recommended that we get an ultrasound of her bladder and kidneys to make sure there aren't any trouble spots. She's back on a different antibiotic for this infection, and hopefully this time it won't come back.


XO
Liz

Liz--one of my biggest gluten issues is constipation--believe it or not. The more whole wheat fiber I threw at it the worse it got. It is often assumed people have the opposite issue with gluten problems, but not always. I know there is all kinds of stuff going on online about food issues being in people's heads (we are all a bunch of hypochondriacs), but it might be worth talking to your doctor about a food challenge. I hope things get better soon!

Today is also my sweet daughter's 7th birthday. Wow! I have no idea where the years went but... what a wonderfully sweet ride it has been so far.

Happy Thursday, ladies!

Happy Birthday to your DD!

Just a quick flyby posting a pic of myself, DS and Hubs from Prom on saturday... I hope to be on tomorrow.. till then everyone take care..

Great picture!

VERY belated QOTD for Thursday, May 15, 2014:

How do you/would you handle INTENSE stress WITHOUT food? Meditation? Yoga? Therapy? Prayer?

I don't, which is why I am up yet again. Boo! I feel so much better when I meditate. The program I use is literally 8 min a day. Who doesn't have 8 minutes!???

I have been trying to take vit d every day and even though nothing has really changed (gotten better) at our house, I do feel a little better. And I find that if I avoid certain trigger foods (hmmm chips and coke....) and give myself permission to not worry about what else I eat, I do tend to do better. Not great, but better.

I do think prayer and Bible study can help a lot. When stressful things happen, I think that if we can shift our focus from ourselves to loving God by reaching out to others - thinking more of meeting another's needs rather than dwelling on our own turmoil (real or imagined) - there is great relief to be had. I'm not saying that this is my gut reaction when stressful times come. But, it's something that I will aspire to.

This was a good answer. Thanks for sharing. We keep saying we need to find a new church (we are very, very, very lapsed catholics) but we just haven't gotten around to it.

So take a minute to hug your spouse and your kiddos and thank the powers that be (whatever you believe) that they are there and safe.... because life can DEFINITELY change in the blink of an eye. Love to you all!......................P

Hello!

I would like to join this! I am a little confused about how it works but I will give it a shot!

Welcome!

*****
I am off work until May 27!!! I only work part time, but my position has evolved into something that should be full time and I am burned out! So happy for a nice long break. All the work will be sitting there waiting for me when I get back, but I am determined to not think about it at all until I walk back in the door on the 27th.

I cannot figure out if I got glutened or something else is causing a nasty stomach issue. It feels like a gluten stomach does, and I did eat one thing that could have been cross contaminated, but goodness this is the pits. I look like I am pregnant!

I hope everyone has a great night.

 

[bigsis1970]

Thanks ladies.. I just can't believe he was short and chubby 5 or so years ago.. then one summer he just shot right up!!! and I think he is very handsome if i don't say so.. LOL, I actually think he takes after myside of the family vs. his dad's (altho that is where the height comes from - his dad is about 6'1".)
Rose I love your quote at the top of this page! Enjoy your mini break!!
Hugs to you and your friend P!
Zumba class last night kicked my butt (and legs and core and arms LOL) it's the normal class - I have been going to gold (and gold starts on Tuesday!) so pretty soon my body will remember and be ok.. but AAAAHHHHH today! haaaa.. advil it is..
my WI is reported - I have stayed the same .. accomplishment since I was at my mom's a majority of the week so I'll take it..
I hope you all have a fantastic weekend - we are getting lots of Rain here in Maine but oh well.. least it warm.. Hugs and pixie dust to those who need it.. Michelle

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning all!

I'm Lisa and it is my pleasure to be your coach this week. I am on PST so it may seem like my questions are posted late to you EST folks but I assure you it is o'dark thirty here.

In honor of Fitness Friday (something I just made up ) let's talk about fitness rules meant to be broken with a little help from my friends at sparkpeople.com.

Just as there is plenty of questionable diet and weight-loss advice going around, some exercise "rules" that people live by are downright misleading, misguided or just plain out wrong. Why does it matter? Because you want to make the most of your time in the gym—and stay safe while you do it.

Read on as we debunk six old fitness myths and replace them with new workout rules that will support your body to be its fittest and healthiest!

Old rule: Tone up a specific area of your body by exercising it more.
There is absolutely no way for you to selectively reduce fat on a specific area of the body. While you can build muscle in a particular area, you cannot get rid of the fat that way.

New rule: Burn fat for six-pack abs and jiggle-free arms.
Truth be told, you do have a six-pack under that stomach—you just can't see it yet if you have some pounds to lose! So instead of wasting your energy by spot training (think thousands of crunches), focus on using your entire body to burn calories through a mix of weight-training and cardio (and see new rule #3 for a powerful fat-blasting combo!). Also, be sure to eat a healthy, lower calorie diet. It's only through exercise and a proper diet that those strong muscles can be shown off!

Old rule: Do crunches for a strong midsection.
Crunches are by far the most popular exercise for working the abs, but why? Turns out, crunches only target the top part of your abdominals and actually don't improve your core strength that much. And, really, what good is fitness if it can't help you easily do what you need to do in everyday life?

New rule: Get a strong core with functional full-body exercises.
Did you know that abs only make up one part of your core? Yep, the full core is made up your abdominals, obliques, transverse abdominis and erector spinae (low back). Some experts even consider your hips to be part of your core. So when it comes to getting a strong midsection, don't just crunch. Do a variety of planks, side planks, twists, rotations, balance work and more to build functional strength and support your body—no matter what activity you're doing. A strong core keeps your back healthy and resistant to pain and injury, improves posture, allows you to move your body with greater control and helps with balance.

Old rule: Always rest between strength-training sets.
You've probably heard that you should rest for 60-90 seconds between sets when lifting weights, right? But the fitness industry has gotten a lot more creative, focused and time-efficient when it comes to weight-lifting, making this rule old news.

New rule: Circuit train to make the most of your workout.
While there's nothing wrong with resting between sets, who has time? Make the most of your workout time with circuit training! Circuit training is a method of training borrowed from athletes and modified for us regular folks. Although circuit training is a broad term and can be done in many different and creative ways, traditionally circuit training is done in stations that alternate between different muscle groups. In this type of training you go from one station or exercise to the next with little to no rest, as you're working a different muscle group. Because you keep your heart rate up throughout the workout, you not only build muscle—you also get the benefits of cardiovascular training. Perfect for those with limited time to work out!

Old rule: Do lots of reps with light weights to get toned and lean, not big and bulky.
I hear this outdated rule a lot, especially from women. For some reason it has been pounded into our heads that lifting light weights makes you tiny and toned while lifting heavy weights will make you big and bulky like the Hulk. And it just isn't true.

New rule: Choose weights that challenge you.
If you can lift a weight 20 times, it's time to go heavier. Lifting heavier weights will not bulk anyone up unless they spend hours and hours in the gym, so don't be afraid to pick up the larger weights in the strength area of your health club. Depending on your weight and how many reps you're doing (SparkPeople recommends 8-15 reps with 1-3 sets for each exercise), you always need to select a weight that is heavy enough to get you to muscle exhaustion during your last couple of reps in a set. Exhaustion means your muscle has worked hard enough and is tired enough that you cannot do another rep with proper form. It's so important to reach exhaustion because it's at this point that your body starts to build more muscle. (We know how important muscle is for weight-loss!) So, if you're regularly doing bicep curls with 5-pound weights and could easily squeeze a few more reps or sets into your workout without really even feeling the burn, it's time to up those dumbbells!

Old rule: Do yoga and Pilates to make your muscles longer and leaner. This is another old rule I hear from women a lot. Truth is, yoga and Pilates don't burn that many calories per hour (less than 200 calories in an hour for a 140-pound person) and while both workouts have some muscle-strengthening benefits, they're not nearly as effective for weight-loss as other more traditional cardio and strength-training activities. Probably more important, no form of exercise has the ability to "lengthen" your muscles. Your muscles are a certain length, and training doesn't make them longer—period.

New rule: Round out your workout routine with yoga and Pilates.
I practice yoga and Pilates workouts, but not to burn calories. I do these two mind-body practices because they reduce stress, improve focus, strengthen the core and greatly improve flexibility—all of which are very important! Yoga and Pilates are fantastic activities that add value to any workout program, but they shouldn't be a replacement for cardio or strength training, nor do they offer the same benefits of these heart and muscle-strengthening activities.

Old rule: No pain, no gain.
I'm sure you've heard this old phrase. But nothing could be further from the truth. While "feeling the burn" is a good thing and signals that the body and its muscles are working hard, there is absolutely no gain to real pain.

New rule: If you feel bad or have pain, stop, rest and modify your workout.
If you have pain, do not take it lightly or push through it. Pain is a sign that something is wrong with your body and it needs rest or a modification of an exercise (for example walking instead of running or doing a front lunge instead of a backwards lunge). Also important, if you feel terrible, black out or have chest pains (more warning signs are here), you must take this very seriously and slow down (for cardio) or stop (for immediate severe pain). Additionally, if you've been working out very hard and feel like you might be overtraining, it's important to give your body the rest it needs. Remember, exercise is supposed to make you feel better—not worse!

When it comes down to it, the new rules for fitness are common sense and easier to stick with. Incorporate these new "rules" into your repertoire and you'll be amazed at what a difference such small changes can make!

Here is a link to entire article which includes some links http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1656

Oops! Sorry hit reply instead of preview.

Which brings me to the QOTD Friday, May 16, 2014: Do any of these fitness rules surprise you? Is there another fitness myth that you hear that you know is wrong?

BRB with my answer and replies. Obviously I need some caffeine!

 

[lisah0711]

I received my first Plexus shipment yesterday so today is *Day 1*. So far just this morning, I can say that I do feel a little bit more awake and energetic. Which is nice because I'm not typically a morning person. So far so good.

Today is also my sweet daughter's 7th birthday. Wow! I have no idea where the years went but... what a wonderfully sweet ride it has been so far.

Happy belated birthday to your sweet DD, Connie! I can't believe that she is 7 already!

I'm glad your Plexus arrived quickly and am looking forward to your report.

Just a quick flyby posting a pic of myself, DS and Hubs from Prom on saturday... I hope to be on tomorrow.. till then everyone take care.

That is a very handsome young man you have, Michelle! You all look great and very happy!

I'm sure it's nice to go to Zumba to unwind after a busy week.

VERY belated QOTD for Thursday, May 15, 2014:

How do you/would you handle INTENSE stress WITHOUT food? Meditation? Yoga? Therapy? Prayer?

Taking 5 or 10 good deep breaths goes a long way to help calm down when the times get tough -- even if the stressful situation hasn't improved you usually feel better because you gave your body something it really needed.

Happy Thursday all! SO VERY SORRY I missed yesterday's QOTD. I absolutely forgot about it in the morning, then it popped into my head while driving to DD's, but then slipped out again until....NOW!

Hoping and praying you all are well and having a lovely week! I will try to find some time tonight to come on and catch up, but right now I am trying to help DD sort/organize all of the stuff she brought home and catch up on laundry.... plus DS had his braces off this morning, so I was out of the house for a while. His teeth look really good!

No worries, Pamela! I know you are glad to have your DD home and I bet DS is enjoying his new smile!

Hello!

I would like to join this! I am a little confused about how it works but I will give it a shot!

A little about me!

I started my weight loss journey in Feb. So far I have lost 16.2 pounds! I have a looong way to go but I am on my way! My goals are small... to lose 10% of my body weight, 50 pounds by October for Disney and 80 pounds in total!

My weigh in for May

May 7 lost 3.8

May 14 lost 2.6

Having a great month so far!

weswife! Read the instructions in the first couple of posts and let us know if you have any questions. A good place to start is a little intro and answering the QOTD.

I am off work until May 27!!! I only work part time, but my position has evolved into something that should be full time and I am burned out! So happy for a nice long break. All the work will be sitting there waiting for me when I get back, but I am determined to not think about it at all until I walk back in the door on the 27th.

I cannot figure out if I got glutened or something else is causing a nasty stomach issue. It feels like a gluten stomach does, and I did eat one thing that could have been cross contaminated, but goodness this is the pits. I look like I am pregnant!

I hope everyone has a great night.

Glad that your puppy is doing okay and hope that you are feeling better soon, too. I know that you will enjoy your break.

Which brings me to the QOTD Friday, May 16, 2014: Do any of these fitness rules surprise you? Is there another fitness myth that you hear that you know is wrong?

I wish they would have figured out the deal about crunches a long time ago -- I don't know how many thousands of sit ups I did in my day that were not helping like I thought.

A friendly reminder that today is weigh in day so please PM your info to our lovely hostess, donac!

 

[Rose&Mike]

Thanks for coaching Lisa!

QOTD--
I knew yoga didn't burn very many calories, but that is even lower than I thought. I have taken some power yoga classes where I have been dripping sweat, so hopefully those were burning a few more calories!

On the crunch/plank thing. I feel stronger when I do planks and other core stuff, but I have to be careful or it aggravates my back and Mike and I have both injured our shoulders doing side planks. I think I am too old for side planks.

****
I am now coke free since May 1 and potato chip free since May 9.
Adding in water today. I am setting a goal of 32 ounces a day.
Baby steps.

Have a great Friday!

 

[pjlla]

Hello!

I would like to join this! I am a little confused about how it works but I will give it a shot!

A little about me!

I started my weight loss journey in Feb. So far I have lost 16.2 pounds! I have a looong way to go but I am on my way! My goals are small... to lose 10% of my body weight, 50 pounds by October for Disney and 80 pounds in total!

My weigh in for May

May 7 lost 3.8

May 14 lost 2.6

Having a great month so far!

WELCOME!! We are so glad to have you along! Things have been quiet here lately..... I think we are all busy enjoying SPRING!

Take a minute to read page one and see how things work here. Then PM your starting weight and goal for the month to donac (she is our hostess for May). And then just start chatting and answering the QOTD with us! Thanks for joining us and for introducing yourself!

The puppy is doing ok. Healthy at this moment. We thought we were going to have to cancel our trip next week, but it looks like we are good to go.

So glad Jessie's health is improving!

I second pinterest. Let me know if you need an invite--I think they are still doing invites.

I didn't even think about the invite thing! If anyone wants to follow any of my boring boards on Pinterest, I am Pamela Anderson.


I don't, which is why I am up yet again. Boo! I feel so much better when I meditate. The program I use is literally 8 min a day. Who doesn't have 8 minutes!???

I've been feeling that way about the "mile-a-day" thing, since it really only takes me 15 minutes or less, depending. If I can't find 15 minutes a day to improve my health, then clearly my priorities need to change!

I have been trying to take vit d every day and even though nothing has really changed (gotten better) at our house, I do feel a little better. And I find that if I avoid certain trigger foods (hmmm chips and coke....) and give myself permission to not worry about what else I eat, I do tend to do better. Not great, but better.

Good for you!

This was a good answer. Thanks for sharing. We keep saying we need to find a new church (we are very, very, very lapsed catholics) but we just haven't gotten around to it.

The door is always open, no matter how long you have been away.


*****
I am off work until May 27!!! I only work part time, but my position has evolved into something that should be full time and I am burned out! So happy for a nice long break. All the work will be sitting there waiting for me when I get back, but I am determined to not think about it at all until I walk back in the door on the 27th.

WOOHOO on a vacation!!!!!!!!!!

I cannot figure out if I got glutened or something else is causing a nasty stomach issue. It feels like a gluten stomach does, and I did eat one thing that could have been cross contaminated, but goodness this is the pits. I look like I am pregnant!

I hope everyone has a great night.

Sorry your belly is hurting. Feel better fast!

Thanks ladies.. I just can't believe he was short and chubby 5 or so years ago.. then one summer he just shot right up!!! and I think he is very handsome if i don't say so.. LOL, I actually think he takes after myside of the family vs. his dad's (altho that is where the height comes from - his dad is about 6'1".)

Amazing how boys do that! My DS also grew I SWEAR about 10 inches in one year! And his feet literally grew 4 sizes in about 2 years! It was INSANE!

Rose I love your quote at the top of this page! Enjoy your mini break!!
Hugs to you and your friend P!
Zumba class last night kicked my butt (and legs and core and arms LOL) it's the normal class - I have been going to gold (and gold starts on Tuesday!) so pretty soon my body will remember and be ok.. but AAAAHHHHH today! haaaa.. advil it is..
my WI is reported - I have stayed the same .. accomplishment since I was at my mom's a majority of the week so I'll take it..
I hope you all have a fantastic weekend - we are getting lots of Rain here in Maine but oh well.. least it warm.. Hugs and pixie dust to those who need it.. Michelle

Rain here in NH as well. Good job with the maintain while at Mom's!

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

Morning all! Things, as usual, aren't quiet here! DS has a friend who has been having some "issues" at home with his Dad (his mom passed away several years ago) and I have told DS to tell him that he is welcome here, any time, for any reason. Well, yesterday was the time. He showed up here after school, visibly upset and he stayed here with us last night and will be going home after school today... at least for now.

So my evening got a little screwy with making dinner, then finding cleaning sheets, helping DS pick up his room a bit to make room for the cot, etc.

(ETA: I was told that I provided TMI, so YES, if you read this story earlier and it seems shorter, I did edit it.)

Anyhow.... the evening flew by but I did manage to get my one mile walk in about 8pm.... and all of the kids came with me.... DD, DS, plus the friend! It was fun and the bugs didn't bother us!

Satisfaction with the number on the scale continues to allude me.... basically I have maintained (bounced within .1 each week) for three weeks now. Clearly I need to pick up the pace with the workouts. I will give myself permission to peek at the scale again tomorrow, just in case, but today's frustrating number will probably be my "official" for this week.

Off to be productive! Plus I'm guess the QOTD has been posted by now, since I have been typing this off and on for two hours! ...................P

 

[pjlla]

Good morning all!

I'm Lisa and it is my pleasure to be your coach this week. I am on PST so it may seem like my questions are posted late to you EST folks but I assure you it is o'dark thirty here.

THANK YOU!!!!

In honor of Fitness Friday (something I just made up ) let's talk about fitness rules meant to be broken with a little help from my friends at sparkpeople.com.

Love "FITNESS FRIDAY!""

Which brings me to the QOTD Friday, May 16, 2014: Do any of these fitness rules surprise you? Is there another fitness myth that you hear that you know is wrong?

Nothing terribly new, but disappointing to hear that Pilates and yoga burn so few calories!

One "fitness" thing I have heard recently is something to the effect of "what you do in the kitchen makes you look good in clothes, what you do in the gym makes you look good naked." Basically you can get SLIM by eating right, but if you want to be strong and toned, you must work out! So I guess I will NEVER look good naked!

Thanks for coaching Lisa!

QOTD--
I knew yoga didn't burn very many calories, but that is even lower than I thought. I have taken some power yoga classes where I have been dripping sweat, so hopefully those were burning a few more calories!

On the crunch/plank thing. I feel stronger when I do planks and other core stuff, but I have to be careful or it aggravates my back and Mike and I have both injured our shoulders doing side planks. I think I am too old for side planks.

****
I am now coke free since May 1 and potato chip free since May 9.
Adding in water today. I am setting a goal of 32 ounces a day.
Baby steps.

Have a great Friday!

I'm so proud of you!! Try buying a new water bottle to make the water more interesting..... or a new bendy straw or a slice of lemon!

***********

Breakfast is done, time to get moving with my day!...................P