WISH Away the Pounds -- Spectacular September Challenge!

[Zoesmama03]

Down .2 since my last weigh in(wasn't quite a week since I weighed late last week) but I wasn't expecting a 1-2 lbs loss because of not tracking. I'm trying to choose healthier and avoid snacking too much. Got work to do on the "diet" still but its coming along more towards mostly protein(hard for me since I'm not a big fan of meats) and veggies. Going to have to work on a meal plan so I can fine tune it a bit more. 10 lbs to my first mini goal. Still a long journey after that yet but will be exciting to finally be back in 200s. I look forward to getting back into some of my jeans.

I have loads of housework and some donations to get taken to a charity thrift store so if I work on this I can burn some calories too I'm sure. My room has two overflowing boxes I need to get taken but I also keep having to re-sort and check that nothing got thrown on top that wasn't supposed to. I have two boxes of hamster cage accessories to clean and sort what we will keep and what we will donate. And another project lined up to start scanning some family photos. I'd like to get some of the aunts and uncles their pictures but really want to scan them so I have copies too. It was a tote full of them my late grandmother had and I keep thinking it would be a great gift to get them in albums for my aunts and uncles to enjoy. I have lost one uncle, an aunts spouse passed this year and she struggles so much financially but I think she would enjoy the pictures even though they had a rough early life. They lost a brother when young that probably didn't help my grandparents much who became alcoholics and kids were in foster care some. Such a rough start for them and I do admire them all a lot even though I don't know them that well since my mom moved us here across country from them when I was 12. I've seen one aunt and my uncle a couple times since but my other aunt(that struggles a lot) I haven't seen since I was little. I keep wonder if maybe any of them will know who some of the others even are. I don't know my grandpas side of family all that well but some are in U.S.(north in Minnesota I believe) and some are still living in Sweden.

 

[Zoesmama03]

Okay a bit of a long "catch up" post.

Hi everyone! I hope you all had a great weekend.

DD's birthday party was Saturday, and we were at a trampoline place. I stopped short of joining the kiddos on the trampolines, but they were very impressive, going off the slanted trampoline walls. They definitely didn't have places like this when I was a kid! She had a great time; her official 10th birthday (!) is this Wednesday.

I sang with our church houseband yesterday, so the chords got a workout...we did Age of Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In and a Peter Mayer tune called Holy Now. Talk about a wide variety...tonight it's back to my chorus rehearsal; our Bernstein choral work concert is in just three weeks!

I also had a really good run on Saturday, which was in doubt. I had 10x800 (so 10 half mile segments) on the schedule but wasn't sure if the tummy bug was totally gone. But the weather was beautiful, so I went out around 6:45pm, and it was great! The walk breaks between the half-mile segments were energizing, and I felt strong all the way through. Today I was feeling very procrastinate-y about work, so I added exercise (I have NO idea where that motivation came from, but I'll take it!). I did my planned 45-minute run, then a 20-minute PiYo workout. And then I biked to my local Subway for lunch instead of driving, so about a 4-mile ride total. Woo! Tomorrow is a desk day in the city, so I'm glad I got this much exercise today.

DH is still job hunting - he got some promising responses last week, but now it's a matter of things turning into actual interviews, and hopefully an offer sometime soon. He might be driving me a little bit crazy here, one more reason I hope he finds something soon!

Hope everyone's havnig a good Monday...it's an absolutely beautiful day here, but I really do need to get some more work done...

XO
Liz

Those trampoline places are so neat. Yep definitely didn't have that when I was growing up. Though a neighbor did have one when I was in high school that we used a few times. Super fun and even aerobic(the one by me has aerobic classes even on certain day). I went on a couple times the first time I took her but was embarrassed by how far it sinks so the other times I didn't go on. It will definitely be a NSV when I feel confident enough to go jump with her. I ran for a bit in high school and after but didn't keep with it. I started walk/jogging and built up. I loved how I felt during and after. I mean at first just sucking air was sucky(LOL pun) but in time it was better and I enjoyed it. Too afraid of injury but I can start with walking.

Best of luck to your dh in the job hunt. I really need to find something too, tough with my car broke down but maybe something part time in evenings would work and I can use my brothers car if need be until I get mine fixed. Just hard to schedule interviews with no car during day hours. But suppose I could pick up some bus passes if it was on a bus route. Problem is when I apply for retail I get little response or am basically told I'm over qualified. But really want to find something so we can start saving for a trip to FL and WDW. I wanna take dd to other parks she's only been to MK.

well I've fallen behind again ...darn! my DH is burning his last vaca days next week to, so I hope to be spending lots of time with him and less online

I broke my momentum...I did so well this month that I felt like I could lax a little. I just hope and pray I haven't done damage on my WI tomorrow!! I need a final push for the month to keep my lime green status!! also, I'm so close to the next size down...I gotta stay focused. you know how your current size is getting roomy, and so you feel like you are doing so great. the next size is still too small to wear in public so you wear the bigger ones, then think...I can stop at starbucks. let's go out to lunch....

for my my mini-rewards have been digging out the smaller clothes and getting rid of the bigger ones!! there will always be a slim, but realistic chance that my Cushing's could become active again and then if I gain for that reason, I will not have any clothes to wear. I'm choosing to claim my victory in remission and have faith that day will never come!

It happens pick yourself up where you left off and add new habits back slowly you will get back on track. I can't get and keep a steady momentum but I'm still trekking along. Its coming off slowly(as long as my scale isn't playing a huge joke on me). Hope it doesn't relapse on you.

Hi!

Just back to work after back-to-back doctor's appointments today, all routine and good. I do really love my gyn; she's so funny and irreverent and *quick.* I'll never truly look forward to that appointment, but I'll always look forward to seeing her!

DD is TEN! Her birthday was yesterday, and we celebrated with Red Robin, lemon cake, and presents. I customized the heck out of a Red Robin salad and got it down to 8 points (!) - and still enjoyed it. That left room for cake, although I did finish DD8's piece when she wasn't crazy about the lemon. Not a terrible indulgence, though.

DH has an interview tomorrow! Happy day! He's started to hear from recruiters in the area, which is great, and I think he's starting to feel like he'll actually find a job again. It's been a month, but it feels like so much longer - we're trying to be patient.

In the meantime, I got a consignment check today for some clothes/coats I brought in last month, so I'm taking the family to Noodles & Company tonight, where I can eat light and we can sit out on their patio. It's beautiful here today, and I think we could all stand a little break. By late last night, we were all overtired and a little snappy, despite the birthday celebration, and I think we need to relax the kids a bit. We've been trying not to project our stress outward, but it's so hard, and I know they're sensititve to everything that's going on right now. I feel like it's a really fine line to walk between keeping them appropriately informed without scaring them. :/

I don't think I'm getting a workout in today - I've been running from one thing to another and will be until after my rehearsal tonight...but tomorrow! I might shoot to get my long run in early tomorrow, or I'll hit the PiYo sweat workout (first time). Not both. I have a feeling I'll be about the same for tomorrow's WI, but last week was so dramatic that I'll be okay with that!

XO
Liz

I try to keep stress from my dd(11) she has totally taken on stress or anxiety after me. She has some anxieties that really bother her. Darkness and dental work. I make sure when she does stress stuff though that we talk about ways to overcome it or work through it. But even when we try to hide it they are intuitive and pick up on it. I know my bff has been in some horrible places lately and though she had done a bit of a 180 still money struggles but when she was school shopping her 12 year old declined new shoes and outfit because he knows money is tight for them.

Good morning all!

Well Being Week-end

Do you have a minute? Then you have enough time to do something good for yourself! With some help from our friends at sparkpeople.com, of course.

When it comes to losing weight or making healthy choices, you probably think that it takes hours at a gym plus long nights preparing and planning nutritious meals. What you may not realize is that quick and easy changes can really improve your immediate health and wellness.

So just how quick is quick? One minute—that’s it! Try any one of these 60-second activities to easily reap the healthy benefits.

1. Drink a tall glass of water. We all know the many health benefits of drinking water, but did you also know that even mild dehydration can cause fatigue? So, the next time you feel your energy waning, grab a glass of cold water and guzzle it down!

2. Twist it out. So many of us spend every weekday seated in front of a computer. Not only can sitting all day wreak havoc on your posture, but it can also compress your spine and exaggerate its curvature. Not fun. A simple twist can help undo this. As you sit in your desk chair, simply twist your upper-body to one side, hold for 30 seconds, and then repeat on the other side. If you have the space to sit on the floor, try this torso twist stretch. It’s guaranteed to make you feel better!

3. Take a deep breath. How often do you think about breathing? If you are like most people, you probably don’t think about it often enough. For a quick pick-me-up, simply take five deep breaths. Slowly inhale for at least five seconds and exhale for 10 seconds each time. Your body will thank you for the extra oxygen.

4. Do 20 jumping jacks. Research has shown that long periods of sitting can be detrimental to the body and our overall health. So get up out of that chair and jack it out! Just one minute of jumping jacks is an easy way to get your heart pumping and blood flowing.

5. Smile. Smiling can actually make you happier. So go ahead—smile!

6. Go outside. You’ve probably heard the health buzz about vitamin D lately. Preliminary research suggests that vitamin D helps regulate the immune system, supports heart health, can help normalize blood pressure and promotes healthy aging. Vitamin D has also been linked to improved mood. If you have a minute to spare, step out into the sunshine!

7. Put on a favorite song. There’s nothing quite like your favorite music to perk you up and get you feeling good. Listening to music has been shown to improve immunity and release endorphins. Bonus points if you dance along!

8. Sit up straighter. Did you know that bad posture can put unnecessary stress on your low back? Take a minute to focus on sitting up straight with your shoulders down and back. Don’t you feel better already?

9. Be grateful. Write down five things you’re grateful for, no matter how large or small (your hair, your family, your morning cup of Joe—whatever). Do you feel more thankful, generous and overall happier after? Funny how a little reminder of what we have can turn a frown into a smile.

10. Tell a joke. Awake your inner child and tell a silly joke—whether it’s a knock-knock joke or even a funny line from a movie. Anything that gets you laughing is enough to get your happy endorphins flowing!

11. Do 10 pushups. Being strong is important, but having functional strength is even more important because it makes everyday activities easier to accomplish. A push-up is a great, quick exercise for building functional strength. Drop down and give me 10—or as many as you can do in 1 minute.

12. Encourage someone. Isn’t it interesting how you always seem to feel better after helping someone else feel better? Whether you post a supportive comment on a SparkFriend’s page or write a few kind words in a card or an email, taking a minute out to help someone can quickly boost your mood.

13. Set a goal for the day. Fact: People who set goals have more success than people who don’t. So why not take a few seconds and write down what you want to do today? Then, just commit to making it happen!

14. Focus on one thing you love about yourself. At times, we put so much effort in focusing on what we don’t like about ourselves that we fail to see the good. Take 60 seconds to think about what you like about you. Is it your eyes? Your strong legs? Your giving nature? Thinking about how great you are will instantly increase self-confidence.

15. Wash your hands. It seems like cold and flu season is always in full force (or just around the corner). One of the simplest and easiest ways to stay well year round is to wash your hands. All you need is warm water, soap and 20 seconds of rubbing to rid your hands of unwanted germs.

16. Compliment a stranger. What better way to make yourself feel good than to unexpectedly brighten someone else’s day? The next time you admire someone’s clothes, positive attitude or eyes—say so!

17. Try aromatherapy. A number of different smells can have a positive effect on your mind and body. For example, peppermint is known to calm the stomach while its smell can energize you through a workout. And the scent of jasmine has been shown to reduce anxiety. To benefit, grab some scented lotion and either take a whiff from the bottle or rub some on your hands.

18. Salute the sun. Sun salutations are a well-known set of yoga poses that are said to warm up the body and increase blood flow and flexibility. So grab your mat and do one or two sets—rain or shine!

19. Give yourself a mini-massage. Massage has a number of health benefits, including reducing stress, lowering blood pressure and speeding muscle repair. While you may not be able to spend the time or money getting one at a spa, pampering yourself with just 1 minute of self-massage by rubbing your own hands, feet or shoulders can do wonders.

20. Be absolutely present. When we are wrapped up with work, to-do lists, and just getting by, sometimes we can forget to focus on what we are doing in the here and now. Try spending a minute just being. Focus on sounds, smells and whatever else is going on around you; instead of thinking ahead to what you'll do next, think about what you're doing right now. You’ll be amazed at how peaceful you feel. Just be!

See? In the quest to be healthier, you don't have to spend a lot of time. Even if all you have is a few spare seconds here and there, you can make a positive difference in your overall health!

Here is a link to the entire article if you are interested:
http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=1557

WATP Musings Which of these 60 second health boosters would you like to try this week-end? Do you have a minute health booster idea that isn't on the list? Bonus points if you do one or more and report back on it sometime this week-end!

Morning! I'm down 1.2 this morning, yay! I didn't weigh until after my long run this morning, so it could be a little lower than steady state reality, but...you know what? I'm just going the own the number and be happy with it. I zipped up my jeans today, and that's a big win.

XO
Liz

I really love these. Some I do instinctively now. Like water and stretching(which includes posture checks and breathing techniques I was using to overcome anxiety and panic attacks. I would like to add some like yoga back in my day. DD and I used to do a small bedtime routine so maybe we should go back to that.

I've never done any real rewards, but I definitely started buying more clothes when the weight was coming off!! And I'm not afraid to buy "investment" pieces now that my weight has been off and relatively stable for a number of years..... although I'm so cheap that I don't often splurge.

I will often do a mini-massage on my neck, shoulders, and jaw area.... mostly to help relieve pain and stiffness. But it helps. I'm also fond of doing a quick stretch.... and if I'm in a classroom, I often get the kids to get up and stretch with me!! A few "reach for the sky" and "touch your toes" movements can really help ALL of us!!


Wish I could claim it was intentional...... but it wasn't. Good catch!!
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Evening all! Sorry I couldn't take the time to do replies to everyone. Glad to see so much good news though! Looks like some great runs, good exercise, some weight loss, and other positive family news (birthdays, job interviews, recovering from injuries, etc).

Nantucket was delightful.... not quite the weekend I had in mind, but still wonderful. I guess I wasn't really sure what to expect, traveling with my Mom and Aunt, both in their 70's. They were a bit slower than I expected them to be, but we still had plenty of fun. And when they were "done" for the day, I just brought them back to the cottage and went out on foot to do more exploring!!

All three of us being WW gals was a HUGE bonus! We ate well and healthy and light and OP (other than a few cocktails). Food-wise it was a big success... and I did walk a few hours every single day.

It is a BEAUTIFUL island and if you EVER get the chance to visit, do so! Especially if you like early American/New England history!! The place is LOADED with history!!

Anyhoooo... prayer request here, so if you aren't "into" that sort of thing, feel free to skip. My BIL (DH's next older brother, turns 55 next month) was just diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. Other than this he is the picture of health and doesn't look or act his age. They are now talking about 8 weeks of radiation and chemo and then surgery that will result in a permanent colostomy. He is just too young for this. He is also currently unemployed and I'm not sure if he has healthy insurance through Cobra. And he has 11 year-old twin girls. So any how.... if you are the praying type, PLEASE add this gentleman to your prayer list. I think he has a long haul ahead of him.

Well.... dinner is ready! The men are busy with other things so I am on my own for dinner so it was a new type of packaged soup, which I will NOT be recommending (Dole brand in a carton..... Southwestern black bean and corn. Not great.... weirdly sweet and too spicy). And I have a tray of veggies roasting in the oven to top things off.... so off to enjoy my green beans and carrots!

BB tomorrow to chat.........................P

I've never done real rewards either. I know I'd like to reward myself with clothing though. Even though I have some smaller sizes I will shrink back to I will need more. I've been living in rags for the past few years. Pants I bought a couple winters ago are wearing out especially in the crotch. I will try to stitch them up for at least wearing in the house this winter because I hate to spend too much. But if I find a part time job I'll be sure to splurge a bit to have decent clothing.

Prayers for some healing for your BIL. My bff's dad went through similar situation with prostate not long ago his is in remission. Not sure if similar results happen with colon.

Sorry for being so absent lately. I guess I am once again a bit frustrated by the lack of movement on the scale. Well, it is that time of the month, so hopefully next week will bring some improvement.

I am keeping nice and active. Had a 6km run on Friday evening. It was not fast at all, but it felt great to run the distance that I will run in two weeks in a race. I definitely have the stamina for it! I have figured out that taking a short 100 step walk break every 10 minutes improves my running quite a bit. Interesting.

Also, thanks to someone why wrote about the Sparkpeople fitness videos in one of the last months. I have added in a few days of doing a core workout I found on there and now also added in an upper body workout. I like it that they are relatively short. So they are easy to just quickly do and get over with. While there is still some room for improvement, I feel like I am starting to get a nice routine of adding activity into my daily life. The scary thing I noticed with the fitbit is that I have long stretches every day where I just sit and don't move a lot. I guess I am not naturally an active person. Maybe this is one of the reasons why I had weight issues early on, I just don't like to move.

Foodwise I am doing okish. I kind of skipped tracking the last few days. I am getting to the point where I think I know all the point values and just add them in my head, but then I know that this is not a precise way of doing it. So I need to get back into real tracking!

Pamela - I am thinking of your BIL! I hope the treatment is successful!!

Molly - I hope you can make the last 10 days of the month a success!

Sarah - sorry for your crappy week! But you have the right attitude to let a misstep not lead you totally off the way!

Liz - congratulations for zipping up those jeans!

Lisa - sorry about the ! Hope you had a great race! Was that the one with the bridge you posted a picture of?

I've been somewhat absent too. Sounds like lots of activity so it should show some results on scale soon.

Oh - and I read about a recent study this weekend that I thought you all might be interested in as well. I just picked one of the links that google found for me to that story in English: http://online.wsj.com/articles/rese...e-sweeteners-can-raise-blood-sugar-1410973201

There has always been debate about the effect of artificial sweeteners, but to me the findings seemed not conclusive. However, that new explanation this study has come up with totally makes sense to me: Artificial sweeteners have an influence on the bacteria in your gut. And the type of bacteria you have kind of determines how your food is broken down. It really was quite an eye opener to me! I never experienced being more hungry from artificial sweeteners (that was a supposed effect that made you gain weight), but I had the feeling that drinking too many diet drinks made me stop losing weight even if I was exercising and eating within my points. I have decided to not have any artificial sweeteners anymore. I need to give my friendly gut bacteria time to take over again!!! It will be interesting to see whether this is going to help speeding up my weight loss.

It will be interesting to see how this research is going to go on. I read a bit about gut bacteria and it seems that those are really vital to how your body metabolises food. Unfortunately it seems that overweight people tend to have more of the ones that make it difficult to lose weight while thin people have more of the ones that help you stay thin. The good thing is that it seems that when people lose weight their gut bacteria change, too.

I have no doubts that aspartame and others like it raise them. My mom drinks a steady supply of diet soda after being convinced years ago to switch when she first developed diabetes. And yet still can't get a handle on her levels been insulin dependant awhile and even with that still way too high. I've went a step ahead and gave up soda(which I didn't drink in her quantites anyway) completely. I've read some that seems to think it causes diabetes too. I dunno in my case its been other stuff that raises it. I know some are just high sugar stuff and others are starchy things. Some don't raise it as much but are starchy but I often forget to track and take my fasting glucose so I should get more records going so I know more specific foods to avoid.

Great job with the race time! Five minutes off is a huge thing!!

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

Evening all! STayed busy today, but didn't get as much done as I had hoped.

Cauliflower fried rice for dinner was DELISH! Both of my men like it and DS is taking the leftover (there isn't much!) for lunch tomorrow. It is a HUGE veggie meal and I'm thrilled that we all got so many great veggies and greens into us tonight..... two full heads of cauliflower, about 5 carrots, 1.5 C peas, half a large bundle of bok choy, a large onion, 4 cloves of garlic..... plus two scrambled eggs, some diced ham (about 1.5 C), and a bit of soy sauce and sesame oil. And the three of us nearly polished it off!

Tomorrow night is changing to baked stuff spaghetti squash, since it will be just DH and I.... the calendar was wrong and there is no robotics meeting, so DS will be staying at school for Driver's Ed, some homework time, and then production company for the fall show.

Off to fold my laundry! Was hoping to make it to my room with the cleaning and organizing, but didn't quite get there. oh well...................P

The cauliflower rice sounds great. I love it raw but I want to start learning to prepare it as rice or even pizza crusts. I've still not tried those because I tend to eat all of it raw before I can use it.

I am so sorry!!! I missed my Motivational Monday that I signed up for!! I only remembered that it was towards the end of the month and lost track that we are getting close to the end of September...

Anyway, a day later, here it is:

Goals - we all have them. But do our goals really help us in losing weight? Goals certainly can be a great motivational tool, but they can also frustrate us if we don't reach them. So, how can we make sure to set ourselves helpful goals? I found a good article on this topic: http://www.sparkpeople.com/resource/wellness_articles.asp?id=696 It focusses on the following 6 Characteristics of Effective Goals:

1. Challenging: Your goals should be realistic and suited to your present capabilities. You can’t go from habitual couch potato to world-class athlete overnight, or recover the “look” you had in your 20's if you’re pushing 60 right now. Small, progressive steps toward reasonable, long-term goals are crucial to success. But your goals should also push you to extend yourself beyond where you already are. Otherwise you will get bored and quit the game.

2. Attainable: Don't take the challenging characteristic (above) too far. Make sure you can actually achieve what you're setting out to do. Otherwise, you will get frustrated and quit the game.

3. Specific: Trying to "do your best" or "do better" is like trying to eat the hole in a donut. There's nothing there to chew on or digest. You need to define some very specific, concrete, and measurable action-steps that tell you what your goal looks like in real-life terms. Include how you will measure your results so you can tell whether you are getting anywhere.

4. Time-limited: Goals need to come with deadlines, due dates, and payoff schedules. Otherwise, they'll fade into the background with your daily hubbub, and you'll quit playing the game. If your long-term goal is going to take a while to reach, create some intermediate- and short-term goals. These will make your larger goal seem less daunting and keep you focused on what you can do here and now to help yourself get there.

5. Positive: Goals should always be framed in positive terms. Humans are not designed to white-knuckle their way through life, always trying to not do things or to avoid certain thoughts, feelings, actions or circumstances. We are much better at approaching what we DO want than avoiding what we don't want.

6. Flexible: Good strategies and goals are always flexible, because nothing in this world stays the same for very long, and staying alive and on course means being able to adapt to changing circumstances.

More, including examples, can be found under the above link.

So, do you think your goals are effective? Is there a way you can change them to make them help you better in your weight loss effort?

REally nice things to think about. I have to use some in keeping my goals up in my daily life with some planning and steps. But also trying to give myself more time-limits.

Good Tuesday everyone. I fell off the wagon this past weekend and will now be hard pressed to meet my goal. Granted it was already aggressive but I truly thought I could make it. I have another week to go with my DietBet game and I may not hit that goal either.

I will pick it back up and keep trying. You never know what might happen.

Don't think I'm getting to my aggressive goal and I know its because I failed to plan more. I kinda fell off the higher motivation I started the month with but had some "family" crisis a bit when my bff had some troubles but things are getting back on track.

Wowza!! Did everyone disappear?? I expect quiet, but this is crazy!!

Well anyhow..... GOOOOOOOOD MORNING WISH BOARD!! (Read like Robin Williams in Good Morning, Vietnam!)

How's everyone doing today! Ready to make it a great one??? Last day before the last official Friday weigh-in of September!! Can you believe it? September has FLOWN BY!! By next Friday it will be October and we will be talking about Halloween and Columbus Day (for us Americans)!

So with this year flying by at break-neck pace, ask yourself this.....

Have you done EVERYTHING POSSIBLE this year to reach your weight loss goals? If not, what is holding you back? What little changes could you make, starting TODAY, to finish September on the right note and carry you into 2015 in the right direction?? If you have a GOAL, do you have a PLAN? Remember....."a goal without a plan is just a WISH".

I am up and moving and staying home today. I have some housework to do (as always) and I am working on a decoupage project that I'd like to finish today, so I'll stay busy, but hope to get in a good long walk before the rain starts. I am having my applesauce overnight oats for breakfast (love it when I plan ahead and have breakfast ready and waiting!).

I'll check back in again after I take DS to school and maybe some of you will have reported in by then! .........................P

I was having a time with school this week. Next week we will try to add in some extras so she can take the whole next week off for fall break. We are used to full weeks off and K12 only does 3 days for fall break. But we can do that work week before and log attendance on actual day. One is marked as a catch up day which what can you do if not behind anyway. But still expect 5 hours of attendance but playing violin and any physical activity out of a normal day is considered P.E. too. October I am working on more plans weekly and daily goals to help get me there. I have 10 to reach my first "mini" goal and had a time limit of my birthday in Nov(20th) so I've gotta get a step up to reach that.

Happy FRIDAY everyone and welcome to your

WELLNESS WEEKEND post!! I dug through my own personal archives of weight loss book and articles and information and came up with this gem that I had ripped from Ladies Home Journal 2 years ago and found it compelling enough to keep. I will provide a link to the whole article at the end, but I will paraphrase it here.

The Junk Food Monologues:

When temptation strikes, why do we always obey that self-destructive inner voice that commands us to do a face-plant in the nearest dessert?

"....Most of us are well aware of what constitutes healthy eating. I can't blame my splurges on lack of nutrition know-how, and chances are you can't use that excuse either. Nope, the real problem is that we feel powerless to challenge that inner monologue that gives us permission to eat the (many) enticing treats we encounter every day. Who can argue with a voice that is so utterly persuasive?

Well, you can. The next time you're faced with temptation, you're not going to fight it - you're going to reason with it instead. How? By asking yourself these five very simple questions.

1. Do I really have to have this?

2. Am I even hungry right now?

3. Is this food splurge-worthy?

4. How will I feel after I eat this?

5. Is the world going to end if I don't have it?"

Here is the link to the entire article..... she gives a compelling argument on how to answer each of those question realistically and how to face DOWN that voice in your head with another voice of REASON.

http://www.cbs5az-digital.com/cbs5az/lifestyles14?pg=8#pg8

I'll try to pop on later to chat, but I'm off to work for now!..................P

I have a bit time with chips in particular probably the MSG that makes you crave more. ahhh I just avoid buying them but on occasion I allow myself some. It wouldn't be so bad if I could stick to serving. I've known some that can despite MSG. Just not something I've ever managed to do. I do okay if I plan it in my calorie expenditure. One thing I do like to allow for every so often is dark chocolate. I had to grow to like it at first I hated it.

I'm here. Just another drive by post.
I'm hanging in there. Life is just one big road trip right now though, it's been stressful.

Hope to be back 100% in October. I start my official 1/2 training and I have 5 virtual races to do too. Those I will incorporate into my training though

Its tough when we have road blocks(trips that seem more like blockages). I'm making my plans to make October a lot better. I'd like to start walking training with dd so we can sign up for a 5K walk.

 

[ohMom]

I always seem to struggle with my checkins come the end of the month! I knew last week would be slim with DH home burning some vaca days. next week I'm determined to paint the spare bedroom so I fear it will be the same

I didn't weigh in this week, I had to stress dose a couple days and it makes me swell right up. unfortunately it makes me hungry too ;( I feel super puffy and not at all like I did two weeks ago. just keep swimming......

hugs to all!

 

[Flossbolna]

Molly - sorry that your week did not go well! Hopefully the next will be better!!

Michelle - I hope you will be able to work in that one week break! How strange that they only want to give you 3 days off. I always think that kids learn better if they do get regular breaks and 3 days just seems way too short. Hope you can work it out! And do some nice stuff together in the week off!

Buffy - great to see you checking in! We miss you!

Pam - were you able to finish your decoupage project? What did you make? You always seem to be so productive with making/refurbishing things! I am already proud that after living here for 10 months, I finally managed to sort through my book shelves. Now I have a huge box for the charity book store.

Lisa - I am going to send in my last weigh in on the 30th. I am still hoping for getting it down a little bit more until then!

Thanks for the encouragement on the running group. I really really should join them! But I think I need to get a bit fitter before I join them as they always run for one full hour and I think I am not yet fit enough for that. And I always run with my phone, I have a small belt to hold it and my key and I need to put some tissues in my belt as well, now that it is getting cooler as cold air always makes my nose run!

It is sad, but it really seems that these challenges don't really have much life in them anymore. I am interested to see what you come up with for October.

I guess we really need to think about what we want to do for the future. Do we at least want to keep a chat thread around? I would be very sad if our little group that is left over just totally went away. Where is everyone? On Facebook? I am quite happy to chat about my weight loss failures on the DISboards and the level of anonymity here. Not sure I want to do it under my real name and with the danger that if I mess up the complicated privacy settings that everyone can read about my weight.... No thanks!

---

Had a very nice weekend. Not the best eating wise, but not horrible either. But both days were very active. My sister and I got to try out our new running shoes this morning. Mine are wonderful! The first time in many years that I ended up with shoes that were not Asics. I got the Saucony Mirage 4 in blue: http://www.saucony.com/en/mirage-4/...10221-4#cgid=womens-running-guidance&start=16

It turns out that I need less stability in my shoes. The guy in the running show store said that it happens if you train more, you gain strength in muscles and tendons and this can correct things. He even said that the shoe I had before the one I have now, he would not sell that to me anymore as it would be totally wrong for me now! It turns out that my sister needs even less stability than me though...

Looking forward to finishing the months strong and then have a great start into October with the new format that Lisa hinted at!!

 

[Flossbolna]

Happy Monday everyone!!

My week started very well. First I managed to have half a pound less on the scale!! But more importantly, I also had a non scale victory!! I was going to wear a very nice skirt (it is part of a set with a matching jacket) to work today. I really like the skirt, but I bought it when I was quite a bit heavier. I had already put it away last winter because it was just far too wide, it fell off me! I had planned to donate it to a more high end second hand clothes charity store. But did never get around to it. Then I put on weight over my long vacation and suddenly my nicer work clothes were too tight. So the skirt and jacket came out of their bag again. This morning when putting on the skirt, it nearly fell off - I can't wear it anymore!! It is kind of a bittersweet moment because it is such a pretty set. But I much orefer having to say goodbye to pretty clothes because I lost weight than the other way around!!

 

[lisah0711]

Congrats on the job find Liz!!

I kept meaning to come back and see how things were going. DH did send your DHs resume up the line but he's been buried in a crisis with another company for 2 weeks. I haven't seen him in almost that long.

So I managed to lose some weight this week. I really need to scale back my starbucks visits. I've only been twice in the last 2 weeks and it think that's why there has been major improvement on the scale.

on a loss this week, Buffy! That is a big accomplishment when you are being a single parent and juggling four kiddos schedules! Starbucks is a big temptation especially when the pumpkin crack stuff is out.

Down .2 since my last weigh in(wasn't quite a week since I weighed late last week) but I wasn't expecting a 1-2 lbs loss because of not tracking. I'm trying to choose healthier and avoid snacking too much. Got work to do on the "diet" still but its coming along more towards mostly protein(hard for me since I'm not a big fan of meats) and veggies. Going to have to work on a meal plan so I can fine tune it a bit more. 10 lbs to my first mini goal. Still a long journey after that yet but will be exciting to finally be back in 200s. I look forward to getting back into some of my jeans.

on making progress toward your mini-goal, Melissa! You will need those other jeans as the weather cools down. Hope you didn't get washed away in all the rain on Saturday.

I always seem to struggle with my checkins come the end of the month! I knew last week would be slim with DH home burning some vaca days. next week I'm determined to paint the spare bedroom so I fear it will be the same

I didn't weigh in this week, I had to stress dose a couple days and it makes me swell right up. unfortunately it makes me hungry too ;( I feel super puffy and not at all like I did two weeks ago. just keep swimming......

hugs to all!

Hang in there, Molli! Hope that you had a good time with DH on vacation and got to do something fun together. Just keep swimming is a great motto!

Molly - sorry that your week did not go well! Hopefully the next will be better!!

Michelle - I hope you will be able to work in that one week break! How strange that they only want to give you 3 days off. I always think that kids learn better if they do get regular breaks and 3 days just seems way too short. Hope you can work it out! And do some nice stuff together in the week off!

Buffy - great to see you checking in! We miss you!

Pam - were you able to finish your decoupage project? What did you make? You always seem to be so productive with making/refurbishing things! I am already proud that after living here for 10 months, I finally managed to sort through my book shelves. Now I have a huge box for the charity book store.

Lisa - I am going to send in my last weigh in on the 30th. I am still hoping for getting it down a little bit more until then!

Thanks for the encouragement on the running group. I really really should join them! But I think I need to get a bit fitter before I join them as they always run for one full hour and I think I am not yet fit enough for that. And I always run with my phone, I have a small belt to hold it and my key and I need to put some tissues in my belt as well, now that it is getting cooler as cold air always makes my nose run!

It is sad, but it really seems that these challenges don't really have much life in them anymore. I am interested to see what you come up with for October.

I guess we really need to think about what we want to do for the future. Do we at least want to keep a chat thread around? I would be very sad if our little group that is left over just totally went away. Where is everyone? On Facebook? I am quite happy to chat about my weight loss failures on the DISboards and the level of anonymity here. Not sure I want to do it under my real name and with the danger that if I mess up the complicated privacy settings that everyone can read about my weight.... No thanks!

---

Had a very nice weekend. Not the best eating wise, but not horrible either. But both days were very active. My sister and I got to try out our new running shoes this morning. Mine are wonderful! The first time in many years that I ended up with shoes that were not Asics. I got the Saucony Mirage 4 in blue: http://www.saucony.com/en/mirage-4/...10221-4#cgid=womens-running-guidance&start=16

It turns out that I need less stability in my shoes. The guy in the running show store said that it happens if you train more, you gain strength in muscles and tendons and this can correct things. He even said that the shoe I had before the one I have now, he would not sell that to me anymore as it would be totally wrong for me now! It turns out that my sister needs even less stability than me though...

Looking forward to finishing the months strong and then have a great start into October with the new format that Lisa hinted at!!

Love the new running shoes, Magdalene! Just goes to show that you need to get refitted and reevaluated every time to make sure that you are wearing the right shoe. That will definitely help how you feel.

I am a Brooks girl myself. I just my second pair of Addiction as I need stability shoes but this is one step down from the highest stability shoe I wore for a couple of years. I ended up with a toenail that is going to be lost after this last race. First time for that toe ever.

I made the October challenge very simple and something where we can measure our progress through the process instead of hoping the scale will cooperate with our efforts. I don't know if this is a good as an ongoing format but hopefully we can have lots of discussions about what we would like to see and lots of folks volunteering to help out.

Happy Monday everyone!!

My week started very well. First I managed to have half a pound less on the scale!! But more importantly, I also had a non scale victory!! I was going to wear a very nice skirt (it is part of a set with a matching jacket) to work today. I really like the skirt, but I bought it when I was quite a bit heavier. I had already put it away last winter because it was just far too wide, it fell off me! I had planned to donate it to a more high end second hand clothes charity store. But did never get around to it. Then I put on weight over my long vacation and suddenly my nicer work clothes were too tight. So the skirt and jacket came out of their bag again. This morning when putting on the skirt, it nearly fell off - I can't wear it anymore!! It is kind of a bittersweet moment because it is such a pretty set. But I much orefer having to say goodbye to pretty clothes because I lost weight than the other way around!!

Would it be worth going to a tailor to have your skirt and jacket taken in? It would have to be something that you love and I've read that even a little bit of tailoring can really make your clothes look fabulous. It's one of those things I might spring for as I get to my goal.

 

[Flossbolna]

Love the new running shoes, Magdalene! Just goes to show that you need to get refitted and reevaluated every time to make sure that you are wearing the right shoe. That will definitely help how you feel.

Indeed! I have been hopping from shoe to shoe every time over the last 10 years since I started to buy running shoes. I never end up with the same shoe for some reason.

I am a Brooks girl myself. I just my second pair of Addiction as I need stability shoes but this is one step down from the highest stability shoe I wore for a couple of years. I ended up with a toenail that is going to be lost after this last race. First time for that toe ever.

So sorry about your toe!!! Sounds painful!

I started out with Brooks, Adrenaline. I tried them on again last time I bought new shoes and I could see why I once liked them. But the others were more comfortable. This time I did not even get to try any Brooks. But it does not matter as the ones I got are wonderful!

I made the October challenge very simple and something where we can measure our progress through the process instead of hoping the scale will cooperate with our efforts. I don't know if this is a good as an ongoing format but hopefully we can have lots of discussions about what we would like to see and lots of folks volunteering to help out.

Oh - I see the new thread is up. Will go and check it out!!

Would it be worth going to a tailor to have your skirt and jacket taken in? It would have to be something that you love and I've read that even a little bit of tailoring can really make your clothes look fabulous. It's one of those things I might spring for as I get to my goal.

I have been thinking about it. The problem with the skirt is that is partly pleated and I don't think that it can be tailored. But I really ought to take it to a place and talk about it with them instead of just giving it away!

 

[Zoesmama03]

Gross: http://www.getholistichealth.com/40...-not-want-to-know-about-their-favorite-foods/

Could turn some items off to me now for sure. Some I already don't consume.

 

[Zoesmama03]

I had a wild hare to weigh in. I think my scale is broke. LOL First one I was moving as it was taking longer than usual and said 288. Yeah freaking right. So I waited longer and twice now it is trying to insist I weigh 299 or so which is really not possible. LOL

I'll try batteries since we got some finally. Though I haven't seen Lo which means batteries are low. It's old and has been through cross country moves. May have to brave my fear of stepping on glass scale and try my brothers fancy one that is supposed to measure body fat and all that. LOL I'm scared to stand on glass ones.


Okay editing to update: I did both. Weight on my brother's scale is consistent 305.8(which is still less than my last report weigh in still but not as much only 4 lbs or so, I'll just see what it says on 30th or 1st). Replaced batteries on mine and yet still says 299 something. ARGH Guess it's just too worn out. I'll either weigh in on my brothers from now on or get my own for my bathroom. Now that I'm not so close to his scales max I feel a bit better about it. Was neat to see the other features even if they are startling. I did have twenty some percent muscle according to it. Plus quite a bit of water weight. Thought I'm sure they aren't all that accurate. I really like the scale.

 

[SarahDisney]

I read through everything, but I don't have the time/patience/energy to respond to everyone ... so, hi all.

Liz - congrats to your DH on getting a job!

I have one WI so far for the week-end. I'll take them all week-end and through the 30th, of course, but I think that the writing is on the wall that the days of the WATP are drawing to a close. This format isn't working as well as it used to and I think the challenge has run its course. I'm going to try something totally new for the last month of the challenge in October to see if we can't go out with a bang instead of a whimper. Stay tuned!

I really hope we can find a format that works for a lot of people. Even though I'm not always as active as I would like to be, I do enjoy having the challenge as a way to help me stay accountable.

So I managed to lose some weight this week. I really need to scale back my starbucks visits. I've only been twice in the last 2 weeks and it think that's why there has been major improvement on the scale.

Ditto - I stopped going to Starbucks at the beginning of the summer because I was making iced coffee at home, and I was losing ... but since I started going back, my weight has been going up a little more. I'm trying to cut it down to maximum twice a month (I need that much to maintain my gold status) and hoping that helps. I hope cutting down the starbucks continues to help you!

I was down mid-week last week, and then didn't get back on the scale until yesterday, when I was up more than I wanted to be. Hopefully my final weigh-in tomorrow will be down again. I got about 15,000 steps in today, so I'm counting that as a good exercise day, and I'l allowing myself a clementine for an after-dinner snack and nothing else ... so hopefully that'll put me where I want for tomorrow's weigh in.

So, that's what's up with me. I'll check in tomorrow and see what's going on with everyone else.

 

[pjlla]

Congrats on the job find Liz!!

I kept meaning to come back and see how things were going. DH did send your DHs resume up the line but he's been buried in a crisis with another company for 2 weeks. I haven't seen him in almost that long.

So I managed to lose some weight this week. I really need to scale back my starbucks visits. I've only been twice in the last 2 weeks and it think that's why there has been major improvement on the scale.

Glad you are at least down! Those darn Starbucks lattes!! And glad to see you back again!!

Down .2 since my last weigh in(wasn't quite a week since I weighed late last week) but I wasn't expecting a 1-2 lbs loss because of not tracking. I'm trying to choose healthier and avoid snacking too much. Got work to do on the "diet" still but its coming along more towards mostly protein(hard for me since I'm not a big fan of meats) and veggies. Going to have to work on a meal plan so I can fine tune it a bit more. 10 lbs to my first mini goal. Still a long journey after that yet but will be exciting to finally be back in 200s. I look forward to getting back into some of my jeans.

I have loads of housework and some donations to get taken to a charity thrift store so if I work on this I can burn some calories too I'm sure. My room has two overflowing boxes I need to get taken but I also keep having to re-sort and check that nothing got thrown on top that wasn't supposed to. I have two boxes of hamster cage accessories to clean and sort what we will keep and what we will donate. And another project lined up to start scanning some family photos. I'd like to get some of the aunts and uncles their pictures but really want to scan them so I have copies too. It was a tote full of them my late grandmother had and I keep thinking it would be a great gift to get them in albums for my aunts and uncles to enjoy. I have lost one uncle, an aunts spouse passed this year and she struggles so much financially but I think she would enjoy the pictures even though they had a rough early life. They lost a brother when young that probably didn't help my grandparents much who became alcoholics and kids were in foster care some. Such a rough start for them and I do admire them all a lot even though I don't know them that well since my mom moved us here across country from them when I was 12. I've seen one aunt and my uncle a couple times since but my other aunt(that struggles a lot) I haven't seen since I was little. I keep wonder if maybe any of them will know who some of the others even are. I don't know my grandpas side of family all that well but some are in U.S.(north in Minnesota I believe) and some are still living in Sweden.

I've had some good luck taking PHOTOS of old pictures rather than scanning them. I made myself a "photo box" of black paper and propped the photos up in there and took pictures of them, kind of assembly line. It was SO MUCH faster than scanning them all individually. Just thought I'd share that.

Pam - were you able to finish your decoupage project? What did you make? You always seem to be so productive with making/refurbishing things! I am already proud that after living here for 10 months, I finally managed to sort through my book shelves. Now I have a huge box for the charity book store.

I "think" it is about done. I covered a bookcase with old book pages for DS's room. It was a bookcase I bought second hand and the woman definitely LIED to me about the condition of it. It was totally scraped and scratched and dinged and it actually FELL APART as I loaded into my car (the woman dropped it off and dashed). I considered trying to get my money back, but I decided it was partially my own fault for not asking more questions and asking for more pictures. I was going to try and just paint it, but decided that the laminate wouldn't take paint well.... and the next step was going to be trash it and take the loss.... so I decided it would be a good experimental piece to use as a test subject to try some large scale decoupaging! It came out really well!! I put three coats of water based polyurethane on it yesterday (and spilled about half a quart on my carpeting as well.... ). The finish looks pretty good. There are a few spots that dried a bit "bubbly" before I got a chance to smooth it out completely, but I don't think it is worth the effort to sand it down, since this is just a temporary piece for DS's room.

For the decoupage medium (if you are interested) I used a combo of water and regular old white school glue (Elmer's here in the U.S.) in a 1:1 ratio. The books were bought used (10 hardcovers for $1 can't be beat!) from a local book dealer. I used an old WWII submarine book, an old mechanical engineer's index, and an old Reader's Digest book from 1952. I must say I really LOVE the way it came out! I'll share pictures when I get the shelves into it!

Good for you for getting the book shelves sorted!



Thanks for the encouragement on the running group. I really really should join them! But I think I need to get a bit fitter before I join them as they always run for one full hour and I think I am not yet fit enough for that. And I always run with my phone, I have a small belt to hold it and my key and I need to put some tissues in my belt as well, now that it is getting cooler as cold air always makes my nose run!

It is sad, but it really seems that these challenges don't really have much life in them anymore. I am interested to see what you come up with for October.

I guess we really need to think about what we want to do for the future. Do we at least want to keep a chat thread around? I would be very sad if our little group that is left over just totally went away. Where is everyone? On Facebook? I am quite happy to chat about my weight loss failures on the DISboards and the level of anonymity here. Not sure I want to do it under my real name and with the danger that if I mess up the complicated privacy settings that everyone can read about my weight.... No thanks!


I agree, we probably need to change up the format a bit.... but I'd love to keep it here on the DIS.
---

Had a very nice weekend. Not the best eating wise, but not horrible either. But both days were very active. My sister and I got to try out our new running shoes this morning. Mine are wonderful! The first time in many years that I ended up with shoes that were not Asics. I got the Saucony Mirage 4 in blue: http://www.saucony.com/en/mirage-4/...10221-4#cgid=womens-running-guidance&start=16

It turns out that I need less stability in my shoes. The guy in the running show store said that it happens if you train more, you gain strength in muscles and tendons and this can correct things. He even said that the shoe I had before the one I have now, he would not sell that to me anymore as it would be totally wrong for me now! It turns out that my sister needs even less stability than me though...

Looking forward to finishing the months strong and then have a great start into October with the new format that Lisa hinted at!!

Funny about that. THe last time I bought running shoes I SWORE I wanted Aasics again and that is what I bought. But then I went sneaker shopping with DD and she wanted Sauconys and when I tried them on I LOVED them! I bought myself a pair that day! Glad you loved them!

Happy Monday everyone!!

My week started very well. First I managed to have half a pound less on the scale!! But more importantly, I also had a non scale victory!! I was going to wear a very nice skirt (it is part of a set with a matching jacket) to work today. I really like the skirt, but I bought it when I was quite a bit heavier. I had already put it away last winter because it was just far too wide, it fell off me! I had planned to donate it to a more high end second hand clothes charity store. But did never get around to it. Then I put on weight over my long vacation and suddenly my nicer work clothes were too tight. So the skirt and jacket came out of their bag again. This morning when putting on the skirt, it nearly fell off - I can't wear it anymore!! It is kind of a bittersweet moment because it is such a pretty set. But I much orefer having to say goodbye to pretty clothes because I lost weight than the other way around!!

BIG victory! And imagine the WONDERFUL outfit you can buy to replace it!!

I had a wild hare to weigh in. I think my scale is broke. LOL First one I was moving as it was taking longer than usual and said 288. Yeah freaking right. So I waited longer and twice now it is trying to insist I weigh 299 or so which is really not possible. LOL

I'll try batteries since we got some finally. Though I haven't seen Lo which means batteries are low. It's old and has been through cross country moves. May have to brave my fear of stepping on glass scale and try my brothers fancy one that is supposed to measure body fat and all that. LOL I'm scared to stand on glass ones.


Okay editing to update: I did both. Weight on my brother's scale is consistent 305.8(which is still less than my last report weigh in still but not as much only 4 lbs or so, I'll just see what it says on 30th or 1st). Replaced batteries on mine and yet still says 299 something. ARGH Guess it's just too worn out. I'll either weigh in on my brothers from now on or get my own for my bathroom. Now that I'm not so close to his scales max I feel a bit better about it. Was neat to see the other features even if they are startling. I did have twenty some percent muscle according to it. Plus quite a bit of water weight. Thought I'm sure they aren't all that accurate. I really like the scale.

NIce that you had another scale handy to check with! I've definitely had some issues in the past with scales. I've tried using them in different rooms with different floors, changing batteries, etc. But it seems like once they don't weigh right, they just go downhill. You can probably find a good one for $30 or less at Target if you look.

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

Evening all! I've been sitting here for nearly an hour trying to get this post done, but between interruptions,etc.... oh my.

Worked today, so I didn't have time to pop on this morning... so sorry. And after work DS and I dashed out to try and find him an outfit for homecoming this weekend. We started realizing that between his schedule and mine, this is the only evening we had! Fortunately I found him a nice pair of pants and TWO good shirts at the thrift stores (plus 3 Fiestaware plates and two glass pitchers for me ).

Today was a GOOD DAY in the kitchen! I prepped my breakfast last night (applesauce overnight oats), so that was ready when I came down this morning. My lunch was split pea soup (and an apple) that I made a few weeks ago and froze in mason jars to grab for lunch... so that was easy! And dinner was a crockpot ratatouille stew that I prepped yesterday, so this morning all I had to do was toss it all in the crockpot and turn it on! So dinner was on the table within 5 minutes of getting home tonight. And it was a one pot meal, so just ONE pot to wash! LOVE days like this!!! Trying to plan for ANOTHER day like that tomorrow. Dinner for tomorrow is actually ALREADY MADE (veggie egg pie) and in the fridge, since it is a work night for me. DH will eat alone and then warm up a portion and bring it when he picks up DS after driver's ed and before robotics. And I will warm up my portion when I get home from work.

Off to have a quick snack before my 8pm "kitchen is closed" deadline! TTY tomorrow...........P

 

[Flossbolna]

Hope everyone will end the month with a fantastic weigh in!! I am kind of happy with mine. I did not reach my goal, but I end the months with a nice loss nevertheless. And I am feeling good about keeping the momentum going into October and November!

Gross: http://www.getholistichealth.com/40...-not-want-to-know-about-their-favorite-foods/

Could turn some items off to me now for sure. Some I already don't consume.

Interesting link. And it makes you really think about what we do to our bodies. I try to eat mainly non processed foods and I do read labels. I love pickled mini corn cobs and I recently found a new brand that I really liked. But after the first jar I read the label and compared to the ones I usually got they have all kind of stuff in there. The old ones only had corn, vingegar and spices. The new brand had colour, sugar and what not!

However, here in Europe we generally tend to have more "natural" food. Certain things are not allowed and this is actually always a big political issue between the US and the EU that we have so many restrictions, especially with regard to genetically modified crops and hormone treated meat products.

IDitto - I stopped going to Starbucks at the beginning of the summer because I was making iced coffee at home, and I was losing ... but since I started going back, my weight has been going up a little more. I'm trying to cut it down to maximum twice a month (I need that much to maintain my gold status) and hoping that helps. I hope cutting down the starbucks continues to help you!

I was down mid-week last week, and then didn't get back on the scale until yesterday, when I was up more than I wanted to be. Hopefully my final weigh-in tomorrow will be down again. I got about 15,000 steps in today, so I'm counting that as a good exercise day, and I'l allowing myself a clementine for an after-dinner snack and nothing else ... so hopefully that'll put me where I want for tomorrow's weigh in.

So, that's what's up with me. I'll check in tomorrow and see what's going on with everyone else.

Interesting that both of you have Starbucks problems! Have you ever considerd to just get a plain coffee there instead of something with lots of calories? I decided to cut down on my cappuccinos (even though our European ones are about 1/4 of the size of a small one at Starbucks ) and go back to drink normal coffee with some milk in it.

Pam - your book shelf sounds amazing! What a creative project. I would love to see a picture!

 

[lisah0711]

I have been thinking about it. The problem with the skirt is that is partly pleated and I don't think that it can be tailored. But I really ought to take it to a place and talk about it with them instead of just giving it away!

As you can tell, I have no sewing expertise at all or I would have a better suggestion!

I had a wild hare to weigh in. I think my scale is broke. LOL First one I was moving as it was taking longer than usual and said 288. Yeah freaking right. So I waited longer and twice now it is trying to insist I weigh 299 or so which is really not possible. LOL

I'll try batteries since we got some finally. Though I haven't seen Lo which means batteries are low. It's old and has been through cross country moves. May have to brave my fear of stepping on glass scale and try my brothers fancy one that is supposed to measure body fat and all that. LOL I'm scared to stand on glass ones.


Okay editing to update: I did both. Weight on my brother's scale is consistent 305.8(which is still less than my last report weigh in still but not as much only 4 lbs or so, I'll just see what it says on 30th or 1st). Replaced batteries on mine and yet still says 299 something. ARGH Guess it's just too worn out. I'll either weigh in on my brothers from now on or get my own for my bathroom. Now that I'm not so close to his scales max I feel a bit better about it. Was neat to see the other features even if they are startling. I did have twenty some percent muscle according to it. Plus quite a bit of water weight. Thought I'm sure they aren't all that accurate. I really like the scale.

I know your old scale has been a big source of frustration for you, Melissa! Nice to get a new perspective and some new info on the other one as well!

I really hope we can find a format that works for a lot of people. Even though I'm not always as active as I would like to be, I do enjoy having the challenge as a way to help me stay accountable.

You're doing a great job getting all those steps in, Sarah!

I hope we can find a format that works, too. I think the thing that people like the most is the ongoing discussion and support. :

Today was a GOOD DAY in the kitchen! I prepped my breakfast last night (applesauce overnight oats), so that was ready when I came down this morning. My lunch was split pea soup (and an apple) that I made a few weeks ago and froze in mason jars to grab for lunch... so that was easy! And dinner was a crockpot ratatouille stew that I prepped yesterday, so this morning all I had to do was toss it all in the crockpot and turn it on! So dinner was on the table within 5 minutes of getting home tonight. And it was a one pot meal, so just ONE pot to wash! LOVE days like this!!! Trying to plan for ANOTHER day like that tomorrow. Dinner for tomorrow is actually ALREADY MADE (veggie egg pie) and in the fridge, since it is a work night for me. DH will eat alone and then warm up a portion and bring it when he picks up DS after driver's ed and before robotics. And I will warm up my portion when I get home from work.

Off to have a quick snack before my 8pm "kitchen is closed" deadline! TTY tomorrow...........P

Sounds like some delicious things to eat at your house this week, Pamela!

Hope the drivers ed is going well. We have that going on here now, too, and honestly it is the scariest parenting thing yet! Maybe it's easier since it is your second time around?

Your bookshelf project sounds great! Can't wait to see a picture.

Hope everyone will end the month with a fantastic weigh in!! I am kind of happy with mine. I did not reach my goal, but I end the months with a nice loss nevertheless. And I am feeling good about keeping the momentum going into October and November!

on ending on a nice loss, Magdalene! I know you will be able to keep that momentum going in October and November!

I will be taking your final weigh in all day today and updating tomorrow morning.

Have a great day!

 

[leholcomb]

I didn't hit my aggressive goal but I did lose almost 6 pounds! Not too bad for 2 weekends out of town and one "cheat" weekend. I have one more day to reach my dietbet goal. I think I can I think I can.

I am ready for October. I have a 10 mile race and will begin training for the Princess Half Marathon. My first one ever!

 

[pjlla]

Hope everyone will end the month with a fantastic weigh in!! I am kind of happy with mine. I did not reach my goal, but I end the months with a nice loss nevertheless. And I am feeling good about keeping the momentum going into October and November!

I didn't hit my goal either, but still happy with the progress! And you are RIGHT... that will keep our momentum going, hopefully right through the holiday season!

Interesting link. And it makes you really think about what we do to our bodies. I try to eat mainly non processed foods and I do read labels. I love pickled mini corn cobs and I recently found a new brand that I really liked. But after the first jar I read the label and compared to the ones I usually got they have all kind of stuff in there. The old ones only had corn, vingegar and spices. The new brand had colour, sugar and what not!

However, here in Europe we generally tend to have more "natural" food. Certain things are not allowed and this is actually always a big political issue between the US and the EU that we have so many restrictions, especially with regard to genetically modified crops and hormone treated meat products.

Yup, in the UK you all are MUCH BETTER about food labeling, etc. We are TERRIBLE here in the U.S. and as a result I think many, many folks are unaware of how badly we eat here! Too much crap, additives, artificial sweetners and colors, GMOs, hormones and antibiotics in our meats, etc, etc, etc!! Why are we so terrible? Our GOVERNMENT is OVERRUN by folks who are supported by the big food producers! They vote with their POCKETBOOKS! Sad but true. (Quietly steps off soapbox now.)


Interesting that both of you have Starbucks problems! Have you ever considerd to just get a plain coffee there instead of something with lots of calories? I decided to cut down on my cappuccinos (even though our European ones are about 1/4 of the size of a small one at Starbucks ) and go back to drink normal coffee with some milk in it.

I can't comment too much on the Starbucks thing. I don't care for Starbucks when I've tried it. And while I love the Dunkins special drinks like the currently available pumpkin latte, it isn't available without the sugar, so I usually only splurge once or twice a season. That being said, I CAN get it made with skim, so that is one step in the right direction.

Pam - your book shelf sounds amazing! What a creative project. I would love to see a picture!

Maybe today!

I hope we can find a format that works, too. I think the thing that people like the most is the ongoing discussion and support. :

I'm sure we will!!!!

Sounds like some delicious things to eat at your house this week, Pamela!

Wish I could have MORE of these "prepped ahead" and organized weeks!!

Hope the drivers ed is going well. We have that going on here now, too, and honestly it is the scariest parenting thing yet! Maybe it's easier since it is your second time around?

DS likes to drive with DH more than me (he claims I'm too nervous ), so I haven't had much experience this second time around. DD is a really good driver now and since she got much more experience this summer I am feeling much more relaxed when she has to drive (she has the "kids" car on campus with her now). And I'll have to get used to DS driving alone pretty quickly, as I'm sure we will let him drive himself to robotics a few times this winter.... plus his best friend/robotics buddy got his license in August and we've let DS go with him a few times already (breaking our long-standing house rule of no getting into a car unless the driver has had his/her license for at least 6 months... ). Honestly.... it isn't MY KID'S driving that makes me nervous. It is the OTHER crazies out there! Like the guy stopped on a local highway around here this week going 136 MPH!! Lucky he didn't kill someone!!!

Your bookshelf project sounds great! Can't wait to see a picture.

I'll share later!

I will be taking your final weigh in all day today and updating tomorrow morning.

Have a great day!

Thanks for keeping us on track this month, despite the low turnout.

I didn't hit my aggressive goal but I did lose almost 6 pounds! Not too bad for 2 weekends out of town and one "cheat" weekend. I have one more day to reach my dietbet goal. I think I can I think I can.

I am ready for October. I have a 10 mile race and will begin training for the Princess Half Marathon. My first one ever!

Great job for the month! And double WOOHOO on the upcoming Half!

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

Morning friends! Coffee is consumed, breakfast is done and cleaned up, FB is checked and double checked ( ), and it is time to be productive! I am working tonight, of course, so I have plenty to do here today. I meant to take another peek at the scale this morning to see if I could report any more official loss for September, but I forgot. If I remember tomorrow I will check, otherwise I will consider myself "in the books" for the month. Overall I am pleased with my progress, even though the number is tiny. But I know that I could have made BETTER progress if I had moved more. Lesson learned (again).

It looks like a busy October coming up. Every weekend has something, so I'll have to be vigilant with my eating Mon-Fri to stay on track! I am taking DD to Boston next weekend for the D23 Fan event (anyone else going or been to this event in another city??). She is super busy in school, so we can't really make a weekend of it. I'll head down probably Friday night and we will either stay with family (my Mom or DMIL) or find a cheap hotel to spend a night (her roommate has an overnight guest coming, so we are trying to give them some space). Then Boston on Saturday (which probably... no DEFINITELY means some eating out) for the event and then I'll take her back to school.

Okay.... time to be productive!.................P

 

[lisah0711]

I didn't hit my aggressive goal but I did lose almost 6 pounds! Not too bad for 2 weekends out of town and one "cheat" weekend. I have one more day to reach my dietbet goal. I think I can I think I can.

I am ready for October. I have a 10 mile race and will begin training for the Princess Half Marathon. My first one ever!

You did great! Good luck with your ten mile race and starting your Princess training!

Pamela, DH is the primary adult for our new driver, too. It is easier on everyone that way!

Colors are updated through everything I've received so far.

Congratulations to everyone on a great month!

 

[pjlla]

Here are a few pictures of the bookcase.....

And here it is in place in DS's room (obviously his name starts with "L" ). The walls are actually bright lime green.... they look kind of yellowy-green in the pictures.

I may rearrange the monogram wall now that the bookcase is in place, but I think it looks okay for now. The two upper shelves are primarily empty because they will be for bins for school work and other miscellaneous things. I'll have him help me with filling those. Bottom shelf is yearbooks and other "keeper" books, plus his wand from Olivanders! ..................P

 

[SarahDisney]

Interesting that both of you have Starbucks problems! Have you ever considerd to just get a plain coffee there instead of something with lots of calories? I decided to cut down on my cappuccinos (even though our European ones are about 1/4 of the size of a small one at Starbucks ) and go back to drink normal coffee with some milk in it.

I've tried switching to regular coffee, but that's something I can make at home, and when I go out to Starbucks I want something special.
I also had two bad iced coffee experiences in a row, which kinda "forced" me back to lattes. Now that it's getting colder I'll go back to hot drinks, so I may be able to switch over to mostly regular coffee,

Pamela - the bookcase and room look great!

I ended the month up ... I'm not thrilled. I know I screwed up and I'll do better in the future, but that doesn't make me feel any better. Oh well, whatever.

I'm swamped and stressed ... which is not a good combination. Oh well, this will pass.

That's all for me for now - I hope to see everyone over on the October challenge!

 

[Zoesmama03]

I've had some good luck taking PHOTOS of old pictures rather than scanning them. I made myself a "photo box" of black paper and propped the photos up in there and took pictures of them, kind of assembly line. It was SO MUCH faster than scanning them all individually. Just thought I'd share that.

NIce that you had another scale handy to check with! I've definitely had some issues in the past with scales. I've tried using them in different rooms with different floors, changing batteries, etc. But it seems like once they don't weigh right, they just go downhill. You can probably find a good one for $30 or less at Target if you look.
P

I have considered that however I want them to be of some print quality as I'd like to help my mom split them up to send packages to the aunts and uncles but still have a print quality copy should we want to make a duplicate for our own albums. Both grandparents have passed now and I figure they may like them for their collections.

Yeah I will probably just use his a while. I have my car insurance due plus probably will need parts to get it running again without over heating its been out of proper functioning for months now. Means we either walk or do errands in the evening when my brother is home.

Hope everyone will end the month with a fantastic weigh in!! I am kind of happy with mine. I did not reach my goal, but I end the months with a nice loss nevertheless. And I am feeling good about keeping the momentum going into October and November!



Interesting link. And it makes you really think about what we do to our bodies. I try to eat mainly non processed foods and I do read labels. I love pickled mini corn cobs and I recently found a new brand that I really liked. But after the first jar I read the label and compared to the ones I usually got they have all kind of stuff in there. The old ones only had corn, vingegar and spices. The new brand had colour, sugar and what not!

However, here in Europe we generally tend to have more "natural" food. Certain things are not allowed and this is actually always a big political issue between the US and the EU that we have so many restrictions, especially with regard to genetically modified crops and hormone treated meat products.

I wish the US had more restrictions some people seem to get hounded by the FDA while other things slip by as harmless when they really aren't. Its amazing some of the things that come up in foods. I want to eat from whole foods just the low cost drags us in sometimes to keep budget down.

I know your old scale has been a big source of frustration for you, Melissa! Nice to get a new perspective and some new info on the other one as well!

It was super nice to have the backup.

Here are a few pictures of the bookcase.....

And here it is in place in DS's room (obviously his name starts with "L" ). The walls are actually bright lime green.... they look kind of yellowy-green in the pictures.

I may rearrange the monogram wall now that the bookcase is in place, but I think it looks okay for now. The two upper shelves are primarily empty because they will be for bins for school work and other miscellaneous things. I'll have him help me with filling those. Bottom shelf is yearbooks and other "keeper" books, plus his wand from Olivanders! ..................P

Looks super cool in the room when I first saw it didn't make much sense but when you see it in the finished room its really cool. Overload on Ls hehe

I've tried switching to regular coffee, but that's something I can make at home, and when I go out to Starbucks I want something special.
I also had two bad iced coffee experiences in a row, which kinda "forced" me back to lattes. Now that it's getting colder I'll go back to hot drinks, so I may be able to switch over to mostly regular coffee,

Pamela - the bookcase and room look great!

I ended the month up ... I'm not thrilled. I know I screwed up and I'll do better in the future, but that doesn't make me feel any better. Oh well, whatever.

I'm swamped and stressed ... which is not a good combination. Oh well, this will pass.

That's all for me for now - I hope to see everyone over on the October challenge!

Sorry you ended the month up. Its always tough to see. We've all been there. It can be hard to give up a comfort thing. I finally gave up soda months ago haven't even had a desire for it. It was tough for me because I was dependant on the energy of a morning Mt. Dew. But I get by. Lots of other stress relief things like reading or crocheting/knitting is particularly relaxing to stress.





Guess I should go weigh and email that. This is the start weight for Oct too right???

 

[lisah0711]

I've tried switching to regular coffee, but that's something I can make at home, and when I go out to Starbucks I want something special.
I also had two bad iced coffee experiences in a row, which kinda "forced" me back to lattes. Now that it's getting colder I'll go back to hot drinks, so I may be able to switch over to mostly regular coffee,

Pamela - the bookcase and room look great!

I ended the month up ... I'm not thrilled. I know I screwed up and I'll do better in the future, but that doesn't make me feel any better. Oh well, whatever.

I'm swamped and stressed ... which is not a good combination. Oh well, this will pass.

That's all for me for now - I hope to see everyone over on the October challenge!

Hang in there, Sarah! Hope that things calm down for you soon.

Guess I should go weigh and email that. This is the start weight for Oct too right???

It is hard to eat good foods and balance the budget but you can do it!

We won't be tracking start weights for the October challenge -- just the days that you do the habit and those are reported online.

Kudos to everyone for a great month and sticking with it! The final update is done. Thanks for a great month and see you on the October challenge thread!