Working on Weight Loss and getting Lean!

[Creativebeth]

Good morning! It's weigh in Tuesday! ((((and my scale is happy today!!))))

Weigh in: down 2.0pounds!!! at 182.0

Points:

weight loss: 1
dairy: 1
fruits/veggies: 1
water: 1
exercise: 1
weekly challenge: 0
new recipe: 1 Italian pasta casserole (Taste of Home Diet book)
new food: 1 (roasted cauliflower)
temptation: 1 (controlled the night time eating!)

total points: 8

I have been working the weight watchers with new vigor. I have been measuring EVERYTHING, and even bought a new food scale that tells me the nutritional value of 2,000 different foods. I had two weigh ins that were sub par, so decided to re-new some of my efforts. It seems to have worked pretty well the last couple of weeks since I lost 1.0 last week, and this week 2.0 pounds.

I have limited my exercise to hour every other day since I have the back pain, and foot numbness. I can't really ramp the exercise up yet....until something changes with my back, so I have to concentrate on the eating portion of the event!

I am pleased to see a positive outcome from my efforts, but prepared for a 'no-loss' week next week!

Beth

 

[deekaypee]

I'm just gonna pop in here and report just on totals, ignore the fact I've been incommunicado, and try to go from there.

No reports from when I was at Disney and gone, because I wasn't good at keeping track. Or I did, and I failed in so many areas..

I'm up .5 pounds from when I was at Disney. I gained 1.5 pound there, but haven't been good about about getting back on track on anything. Did some good running there - faster than here and in better weather - came back on ended up with shin splints after my first run. And I wrenched my neck and right shoulder somehow? Not enough to stop working out, just enough to make it really light. DOOD thinks it's stress. I think my ab and upper back muscles need my concentration.

Anyway, 5 points for the week, not that I announced so you can count them. No triceps (only twice this week) and I avoided my temptation - snacking during at-home and in-theater movie watching. But I didn't tell you about it, so I'm not counting it.

More later today or tomorrow, I hope. I made you the first stop of my working morning.

 

[bunnyfoo]

Good morning leanies!

Debra - Sounds like a massage is in order I know that stress all kinds of crazy things to your body. With me, it makes me really tense - shoulder up around my ears, jaws clenched but I don't usually ntoice it until the muscles are all sore from being tense. Good job on the running while you were at WDW! I'd say the gain shouldn't count because it was from vacation eating - which in my mind doesn't count. Which movies have you seen lately? The last one I saw was 'The Adjustment Bureau'. It was so-so.

So I know you posted on FB that you're planning to go Goofy. Just wondering what kind of finishing times you're looking at.

Beth - Congrats on the weight loss! You are kicking butt! How was the roasted cauliflower? I've never been a fan myself. The blown disc sounds painful Any word on the treatment? Is it just a matter of rest and healing over time?

Tandy - WTG on the points! I'll bet you traded fat for muscle and that's why there's no movement on the scale. I have questions for you about the underarm IPL - I've been thinking of doing it myself. I've had IPL done on my upper lip (I have one more treatment and have been really happy with the results). I got my sessions through a group buy site too! The first few sessions I had a bit of redness but nothing more than that. How are you finding the underarms. I'm just wondering if there's more discomfort because you can't avoid contact with clothing or skin. The sleep has been getting better so now I'm averaging 7-7.5 instead of 5-6.

Speaking of shadow boxes ... I'm thinking of buying a second so that I can put all of my PR medals in there. I'm also toying around with the idea of ordering the marathon photos... I'll have to send you a few if that's the case. I'm also going to check out the link you posted after I finish here.

Cindy - I saw that you've got the Warrior Dash graphic in your signature now! You'll have to let me know how that goes! Yes, I'm thinking of Goofy! The problem with me is that I always want to run for a PR so you're right. This is going to be good in the sense that I'm not going to be trying for time. I might run it with VilliansRock (Eva) on Hakuna Matada. I think for the full she's looking to run about 5:00-5:30. I haven't registered yet but I am watching the numbers and will probably do so when it's closer to the end of April. I think that's when the discount code expires. I just like holding onto my money for as long as I can Any advice you can pass along for running back to back races would be most appreciated!

I also didn't realize there were official state desserts - I was laughing when I Googled that story!

Maria - Have you lost 20 lbs already?! You're a Skinny Minnie! You must look amazing! When are you going shopping for new clothes? I vote for a Leanies race in Honolulu LOL Yes, the Princess sounds like a great race - I'm not sure about finances since I'm planning to run the Goofy this year. I also like the idea of the Hershey Half since there's probably chocolate involved somewhere.

Jackie - How goes the running and the rehab exercises?

AFM - I'm slowly taking my running back out to the streets. I'm stick to the roads and going pretty slowly. I'm still working with intervals because I haven't worked my way back up to running continuously. But I'll get there I'm looking at doing a 5K in June as my first race.

This week, I'm down 1.4 lbs which I'm happy with but I know I could be doing better. I just haven't gotten a handle on my eating and that with the lack of running is doing me in. I also made Red Velvet Whoopie Pies on the weekend - yeah I know. I ate three and gave the rest away. It was just a peculiar and stressful weekend I suppose and I feel like baking and cooking (not necessarily the eating) help with the stress.

So for points:

1 weight loss
1 tricep exercise
1 dairy
0.5 food
0.5 temptation - I managed to stop eating at 8PM but never got the full 8 hours of sleep
1 dairy
1 veggies and fruit
1 new recipe - Sweet Ginger Shrimp with Dill & Quinoa (I'll post this in a bit) and the whoopie pies *ahem*
0.5 exercise
1 new food - green eggs and ham (the eggs were blended with spinach to make them green)

I'm going to keep journalling and not eating after 8PM and trying to get 8 hours of sleep. I'm hoping to get out for a 5K run tonight after I get back from work. It's really nice to have the extra daylight in the evening now Not much else planned…

Have a great day ladies!

 

[bunnyfoo]

This is from the Running Room magazine. It's a really quick recipe unless you decide to peel all your shrimp ahead of time.

Sweet Ginger Shrimp with Dill & Quinoa​

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup quinoa
• 1 T vegetable oil
• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1 T minced fresh ginger root
• 1 tsp finely grated lime zest and garlic (I used 2 big cloves because I like garlic)
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 lb large shrimp
• 1/4 cup fish stock or chicken stock
• 2 T fresh lime juice
• 1 T liquid honey
• 1/2 cup diced red peppers
• 1/4 chopped fresh dill (didn't find this made a big difference)

Directions:

1. Cook quinoa according to package directions and set aside.
2. Heat oil in skillet over medium heat. Cook onions, stirring for 2 to 4 minutes until lightly brown.
3. Add ginger, lime zest and black pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring until ginger and garlic are fragrant.
4. Add shrimp, stock, lime juice and honey. Cover and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring once (scraping any bits from bottom of the pan), until shrimp are pink and cooked through. Remove from heat.
5. Toss prepared quinoa with shrimp mixture, add in dill and peppers. Makes 4 servings.

Nutritional Information:
188 calories
5 g fat
12 g protein
23 g carbohydrates
2 g fibre
122 mg sodium

If you buy your quinoa from the bulk store and there are no cooking instructions. It's basically a 1:2 ratio of quinoa to water. So for this recipe it's 05:1. You bring it to a boil, and the simmer for about 7-10 minutes. It took me about 8 minutes on my stove. Oh … and you have to rinse and soak the quinoa in water for about 3 minutes before cooking (I don't know why).

 

[jeanneg]

Hello leanies, reporting for weigh-in......

Weight this morning was 205.3 for a loss of 1.7. It's not coming off anywhere near as quickly as I had hoped, but as least it's moving in the right direction.
Points are 6.5, as follows

Exercise: 1
Triceps: 1
Weight loss: 1
New food: 1 (ha,ha.....I have to type "Italian ham" because when I try to spell the correct word it keeps coming up prostitute!)
Temptation: 1....there were many, but I passed up the fried chicken special for a salad.
Water: 1/2
Veggies/fruits: 1/2
Dairy: 1/2

Jackie: I still can't believe I missed you and Bill this weekend. So sorry, cuz.
Any other WISHers do the race?

Beth: great job with the weight loss. I'm sorry to hear that your back issues seem to be a long-term issue.

Maria/Cindy: I see you are both signed up for the Providence Inaugural. I'm going to take another look at that one and see if I can swing it. I know there are a whole lot of other WISHers also doing it.

Debra: always a thrill to hear from you. Going Goofy, eh? I keep saying there's a Goofy in my future, but I don't know if it's as soon as next year. I love doing the events, but have come to abhor the long distance training. I once did a half totally untrained and it was ugly. I can't imagine attempting the Goofy without putting in the time and distance and I don't feel up to making that commitment right now.

Vicky: recipe sounds yummy, but I am experiencing a brain fart regarding quinoa.....I know I've heard of it, but can't remember exactly what it is.

Oops...gotta go...no time to respond to all....wanted to make more comments but can't.....

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Jeanne -- Wow, it would be great to see you at Providence! We already have our hotel booked, we will definitely be there the night before...

Vicky -- I took some license with my "almost" 20 lbs. -- I'm actually down 16.8. in 8 weeks. 20 is coming, at least I hope so...don't let Dennis know there's such a thing as red velvet whoopie pies, or I'll be having to try to make them!

Debra -- So great to hear from you. Let's get back on track together! I really hope you do think about a massage, I bet it would work wonders!

Beth -- You are doing great! I think you've found a formula that can work for you with the exercise and measuring everything is a great strategy! You are doing this!

Tandy -- Hope I'll make a better effort with the shoulder press than I did with the triceps. I think I was so distracted last week, not much good happened...I know you can resist going to the dark side. I've heard a rumor it's an easier path, but it leads to your destruction The shadow box sounds awesome, you should put it up and be proud of it!

Cindy -- Evacuation Day would be a lot more enjoyable if it was a holiday for me. Taking it because the kidlet has the day off from school isn't really as much fun -- but, like you said, I can do a long run! Who knew whoopie pies could cause such controversy? I'm hoping we can go to the Boston Expo on Friday. I leave for St. Louis around 6am Saturday, so that's my only real chance. I get back Sunday late afternoon, haven't figured out exactly what to do about the course yet -- whether to be on it or where. Dennis doesn't want me there so not real sure yet. Maybe it's because I tried to send him to sleepover camp for 2 weeks

Jackie -- How are you feeling now? Better, I hope! I'd like some fresh air minus snow -- but it looks like we're getting more tomorrow night into Thursday. Can you believe it?

0 weight loss 186.6 again this week at least it's not more...
0 tricep exercise
1 dairy
0 temptation
1 water
1 veggies and fruit
1 new recipe - WW tuna and rice salad
0.5 exercise
1 new food -- white popcorn -- note: doesn't pop up as well as the regular...

5.5 pts total

Ok, so here I am...this weekend was absolutely crazy. My BIL called Thursday night to let us know he and SIL were coming down Saturday to go to a hockey tournament, and staying at our house Saturday night. Um, ok. I changed my normal Friday afternoon "me" time and spent 2:45 cleaning the house. Then we went grocery shopping, then I collapsed by 9. I got up early Sat. for my WW meeting, where I was down .4, but feeling really bloated and yucky...we'll get to that later. BIL and SIL spent Saturday afternoon with us, which meant me. DH and DS already had a commitment at church all afternoon. I was so tired, but they took naps in shifts -- so I had to entertain someone the whole time. Then Sunday morning dh ran a Half, which once again left me in charge of entertainment -- 'cause after the Half he went to work! I had them all day Sunday. I took them to the International Seafood Show for lunch (where dh was working, in charge of the City's booth), and theoretically we could wander around and eat at will. They assured me they wanted to go, and SIL (with sciatica sp?) would be fine. Well, she wasn't. She sat three times in between walking, and I barely got to see anything, although I'm sure I ate way too much. They are nice, but we only have so much to talk about, and they hit the kitchen about 7:30, so no sleeping in for me. After they left I discovered TOM had arrived -- and this may have colored my view of the weekend, as I bet I was a bit cranky.

I wanted nothing so much as to stay home and in bed yesterday, but I had to go to this conference which I knew was going to be a complete dud when I had to sign up for it. It lived up to expectations. And then it was snowing when I went outside to drive home. Seriously?! When I got home last night I felt blah. I haven't run since Friday, and I just didn't want to do anything. So, I had a bit of a rebellious moment -- I stayed up until midnight and finished the book I started reading last night. Of course, I regreted it this morning.

Today was my last yoga class at work, which was kind of sad. I am really going to miss it. I did spend an hour walking this morning, so that's something. Anyway, just checking in...my BL weight was the same as last week, so I guess that's a small blessing. I am genuinely worried about my WW weigh in on Saturday morning, I have a feeling this won't be pretty I know I need to get up and run tomorrow morning, but I'm so tired...

Maria

 

[Cindylou]

This week I am 146, so down .6.
Pts for wt loss, dairy, exercise, new food (WW breakfast quesadilla)and fruits/veggies = 5.

Doing horribly with my no nighttime eating and my water.

Must get to bed early. Have a good night everyone.
Cindy

 

[jeanneg]

Quick question.....what's a shoulder press? I know there are machines at the gym for this, but is there a home version?

 

[Worfiedoodles]

This may not be right, but since I don't go to the gym... I put 5 or 10 lb weights in each hand and rest them on my shoulders, then I push up simultaneously and twist, so my hands end up in the air completely extended above my head, facing forward.

I have a workshop this morning, then a conference call this afternoon, probably won't get to post. No run for me this morning, but I am feeling more "normal" after a good sleep.

Maria

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Back to back posts...don't be too frightened!

Ugh. It's been a long day already...I didn't get up for my run today, I was in a very boring workshop all morning, and I had a conference call for most of the afternoon. If I could take a nap...anyway, at least I got to bed earlier last night, and I'm counting my points and eating well today.

I am really looking forward to the abc comedies tonight -- I need a good

I think I told you guys I'm re-reading the Jean M. Auel (Children of Earth --Clan of the Cave Bear) books, because the final one in the series is about to come out. Number 4 is waiting for me at the library. I'm not sure I even read that one before, as I remember the first three from junior high. In # 3, the heroine "shares Pleasures" with someone who she cares about, but doesn't love. I remember because I couldn't wrap my mind around it at that time, and I think I stopped reading the book midway because I just knew that was wrong Well, I finished it, and she commits to the one she really loves, so it all works out I'm looking forward to seeing what happens next, because if I did read the next book (and I don't think I did), I certainly don't remember it!

I also just read Buffalo West Wing -- a murder mystery, where the heroine is the White House Executive Chef, and Death of a Chimney Sweep -- the latest Hamish MacBeth murder mystery. I have been reading too much lately and getting too little done, but every once in awhile I just need a "book break"

Maria

 

[rubato]

Hi ladies. I haven't heard from Jackie or Kim yet, but will give results based on what I have so far.

Our winner for body fat percentage is also our overall winner this week:
Beth!!!!!!
And, she's doing it while working with a ruptured disc!

Jeanne: The shoulder presses are easy to do with weights (or without if you want). Hold elbows out parallel to your shoulders. Hands above your elbows with palms facing forward. Lift hands straight up while either keeping your palms facing forward or turn your palms in toward your ears.

Cindy: It's just one step at a time, remember? You have overcome lots of the things on the challenge. You'll eventually get them all down. Plus, you are losing weight! How are your runs going?

Maria: I'm sorry you had to deal with the inlaws. Especially with almost no warning. But, you made it through. Now, you get to look forward to dealing with your family, right? Is that this weekend or a few more?
Anyway, it's good to take a weekend off from running here and there. Or, even a week, if you need it. Don't worry. Sorry about the yoga classes. You seem to enjoy them so much.

Vicky: I'm glad to hear you're getting some sleep in. I think you are getting mine, because now I can't sleep!
The underarms were kind of irritated for about 3 or 4 hours. But, I did run later, and had no problem at all. Go for it! To never shave again is going to be great. I just need to get the legs done some day and I'll be done with all of it!
You did great on the points this week. You were in 2nd place by half a point! WTG!

Debra: Welcome back and no problems! Sorry about your aches and pains. I will address back and abs together for next week's challenge. Thanks for the suggestion!

Beth: Congrats on being our big winner this week! You are obviously doing great with your eating. WTG!

Kim: Haven't heard from you in awhile. Hope everything's going okay. Check in soon if you can!

AFM: I am not running again for the 2nd day in a row and just feeling lazy. No big deal. Just don't wanna!!!
We are going out to celebrate our month of dieting tonight by going to a japanese steakhouse (makes perfect sense, doesn't it). I am going to worry more about making sure I stay vegetarian than dieting tonight. At least I'll get my veggie servings in! My temptation this week is going to be my sugar free flavored creamer. I bought some yucky plain powdered stuff to keep me in line. Actually, I like powdered creamer, I just don't want to know what it's made of.
I went to a health provider CPR class yesterday which was a joke. I had to spend 6 hours there and could have figured it out in 1 or 2. But, it's the first step in my schooling. I can't become a CNA until I take that class, so now, I can register for school. I have to go get a TB test sometime soon also. I don't know how long they are good for, so I might as well get another one.
I really want to get on the ball here and get this weight off. I think I'm going to have to lower my calories a little bit. Or, work out more I guess.

Oh, I wanted to ask, does anyone have any interest in switching the exercise of the week for maybe a week of clean eating in a couple of weeks? If so, I'll give everyone lots of warning so they can stock up.

Have a good one ladies!

 

[deekaypee]

Hey, Leanies!

Congrats to all on doing so well on the challenge.

Vicky: Yeah, we saw "The Adjustment Bureau" too, because I like Phillip Dick. Serviceable. I haven't signed up for Goofy yet - but on Goofy my plans are always just to finish. I'd like to get pictures in 2011, though. I don't think DOOD has registered us. Definitely order a shadow box or photos -you'll be glad for the mementos!

I, for one, am impressed with how well you're doing with the challenge AND making Red Velvet Whoopie Pies.

Jeanne: Yes, you're moving forward with the weight loss! Whoo hoo! I know what you mean by the (under)training and time commitment. I'm determined not to let that happen this year. You've been crazy busy for the past year, so getting back a regular schedule - on you terms - has to be the priority. Not just jumping into the next crazy race challenge.

Maria: When is the Providence Inaugural? I doubt we can swing a trip - it's been determined it's the year of the family visits, as multiple family members have announced their plans to visit Pgh. (Do I have to be here?)

You DID have a crazy week. I find entertaining people, esp. loved relatives, exhausting. Combined with a conference, snow, TOM...whew. I'm tuckered out just thinking about it. So your book break makes a ton of sense. I'm the same way, and have my eye on the Charles Finch mysteries when I get a chance.

Oh, and I haven't yet congratulated you on Spock. How adorable and what a great fit for the family!

Tandy: Eating vegetarian at the steakhouse will present its own challenges, but I'm sure it will also help you keep (more) on track with the diet. Congrats on the month of healthy eating! And congrats on the CPR class and making yet another step to making your career change! That's wonderful news! Clean eating would be cool!

Beth: I'm glad you went back to work...that would drive me stir crazy, too! How is your back/leg recovering? 19 pound in 9 weeks? You have been working it!

Jackie: Woo hoo for running on the TM and being a poster child! You're recovering smart, running smart. And love that you've been drawn into the strangely mesmerizing world of Whole Foods. I'm an addict.

Cindy: I'm with you on the challenge of finding new, healthy foods. I mostly stick to new varieties of my fruits and veggies that I haven't tried - or haven't consciously tried outside a restaurant including them in a dish I order. (If I don't remember it, it doesn't count right?) I admire you for tracking/journaling. I can't seem to make myself do it.

AFM: I should mention that I'm stealing a page from Beth/Vicky this week and trying to not only not snack at night but to eat before 8. It's been 9:30 at night for meals recently, and 5 hours of sleep. I'm a 9-10 hour a night girl, so that's not good.

Updates from what I did do last week. New food was with a new Thai dish - green papaya. I like a spicy lime sauce with my Thai food, which I think (hope?) is lighter than most.

My shoulder/back is still hurting, although better. I've been doing extra stretching at the gym and DOOD's trying to help. Just can't get a massage. That's a stranger touching me, which is squicky. (Yeah, I have issues.)

I didn't run on Tuesday because of the back, but walked. I'm headed out here before the snow returns to try walking extra long and then a wog - remember those? - if I loosen up. Then I'll do some modified floor exercises.

In personal news, I've been invited to do a weekly column for Disney Dispatch. I'm trying to work out the details and the time, but I'll let you know what happens. (Not for pay, but for "fun" - and how much fun is writing for me at this point? Tell me it's about the networking. Truly, I like the site and its voice. Just feeling over-committed.)

 

[Creativebeth]

hey Lean Ladies!

So, I won the week? Can't believe it! Thanks Tandy!

Weigh in at weight watchers went well too! I hit my 10% this week....so I am down 20.2 in 10 weeks! That is 2 pounds a week as an average.....I will sure take that!

These back issues are teaching me patience...... a lesson I continually pray for.......and I think my prayers are answered in ways I wouldn't have imagined! I am a firm believer in exercise every day, but I certainly can't do right now. I wish I could. But, I am proving to myself that I can still lose weight, even working out only 3 to 4 days a week. I guess that is a good lesson.....but a tough one to live!

I will state my temptation now.....I want to only eat one plate of food for dinner this week. My problem really is portion sizes. I am measuring all my food, and one plate really is enough to eat physically, but mentally I always want seconds! I am working on that really hard........

My new recipe is currently in the crock pot...."Crock Morock Chicken" from Saving Dinner the Low Carb Way by Leanne Ely. You marinate the chicken, brown it, and crock pot it all day! I love my crock pot! Probably will do yellow rice with it to serve. I am only feeding my kids, but they love a new recipe as much as I do! They are tough critics though.... It certainly smells good now, I will let you know how it turns out.

Debra: Sorry to hear of the back issues! Never fun, I know. I would love a massage right now, but I would probably run screaming in pain once it started! I will hold off until the disc/numbness issue is resolved!

Tandy: It is as difficult to 'fight' the lazys' as much as an injury. There are times I run out of juice and can't get anything done....always a struggle. I hope it gets better once the weather improves for good!

Jeanne: My motto is 'as long as the scale keeps going down, all is good'..... You can't get to down on the week to week struggle......we all have to remember the big picture. It's just like training for a race......you can't do it all in one week.

Maria: You are doing a fantastic job with WW. The program is sound, and works! My part of 'working' the program comes and goes. When I buckle down, and do things right....success usually follows. Can't seem to get to the point that I 'work' it every week though! This challenge helps though, doesn't it?

Hello to Cindy, Vicky and Jackie!

****get those fruits and veggies in today!!!!

Beth

 

[MouseDogMom]

Sorry Leanies... it's been a crazy week, and I'm not handling it well mentally. I just don't feel up to playing in the challenge any more. I'm still doing most of the things I'm supposed to do, but the stress of keeping up with it is just too much right now.

On the positive side, I was down a whopping 0.6 pounds this week. Or not. Really? That's the best I can do? Of course, it's TOM week, so I can't expect too much, but I'm very frustrated that I'm not making any progress. Then again, the milkshakes and the chocolate chip cookies probably aren't helping very much... I THINK I got 6 points for the week, but I can't be sure. I don't even know what my temptation was, so it's a given that I didn't get that point!

Jeanne - Bill was the only WISHer doing Tobacco Road this year. And he actually wore a WISH shirt! I think it's the first time he's done that. I worked a water stop from 6:00am till around 10:30, then went over to the finish line to see him finish.

Maria - I can't believe you have more snow. It was 82 degrees here when I read your post! Tonight we're supposed to drop back into the 30's, but we can definitely tell spring is here. I'll try to ship you some! And I definitely can relate to the book break. I've had a couple of those this winter. I've lost track of how many books I've read since the first of the year. And congratulations on surviving your weekend!

Debra - We LOVE the hot bar at Whole Foods. It's our favorite "restaurant." Unfortunately, we always overeat and overspend. The city has been anxiously awaiting the arrival of our second (actually, it's the third in the area, but we don't count neighboring Cary as part of Raleigh) store for a couple of years, so its opening last week was a really big deal. Sorry you're having such problems with various aches and pains while running. It's no fun!

Beth - Sometimes the smell from the crockpot is the best part! I'm surprised that my dogs haven't figured out a way to open the thing. I've walked in the door from work and been amazed at how good the house smells and wondered how they can stand to be here with it all day and NOT figure out how to get into it.

Cindy - I try to drink at least a bottle of water while I'm getting dressed in the morning, just to get 16 ounces out of the way. Just an idea... Sometimes I can even get 2 down, but then I spend the entire morning at work running back and forth to the bathroom!

In other news, I actually went for a run outside with DH last night. First time since November 9th that I've run outside, other than the Turkey Trot I did on Thanksgiving. We did 1/1 intervals, but managed 2.5 miles. Pavement is much less forgiving than the TM! I whined a lot for the first 10 minutes; then my body remembered that it may have enjoyed running at one time and I quit griping so much. But it was hot, we were running uphill, and into a headwind.

And I feel like I've told this story before, but we're drastically short-handed at work this week, again. The other girl in the office has the flu and has been out all week, so I've been doing her job and mine. The warehouse manager was out Wednesday, so I had to cover for him too, but fortunately that didn't involve much. To add to the stress, we've been told we have to reduce staff by at least one person, maybe two, and my boss told me that the girl whose job I've been covering is one that might be let go. Which would mean that I'd have to do her job all the time. I told him that if I had to, obviously I would, since I'd like to have a job, but it is absolutely NOT an ideal situation. I do a very good job of doing my job, but I do a very mediocre job of doing both jobs since both are very detailed. I tend to make mistakes in both when doing both, and I don't like to make mistakes. So I'm not very happy right now. (Which makes me want chocolate. And alcohol. Which isn't good, since it's TOM week, which means it's also migraine week. And alcohol and migraines don't get along very well.) Like I said, it's been a crazy week!

Jackie

 

[Creativebeth]

Jackie: I am sorry that life is so stressful for you. I always believe that stress is the route to all evil......it changes everything in our lives, including the body and our chemical balance. I think the challenge should enhance your life, and if it's not doing that for you......don't worry about it. Our lean ladies know how it is and will do nothing but support you. Just keep visiting, right? We love you! I hope work gets better for you......I am so lucky working with Nancy, because I love my job! It is actually a stress reliever most of the time (except when we get busy!).

Maria: I am making the chocolate cake recipe from the weekly WW magazine (with sauerkraut) (*another new recipe!*). I will let you know, but it smells delicious!

AFM: The new recipe yesterday was ok, but not our favorite....probably won't make it again. The chicken actually got kind of dry.

I got an hour of the ARC yesterday, but sort of paying for it today. My foot is cold and very numb. I will hold off on the gym today I guess ..... I was hoping to get there today......

My goal for the week in 1.8 pounds....it will get me into the 170's! I know that will be a big mental boost. I will feel further away from the 200's!

I have been doing well with the one plate at dinner. I think that is a big mental boost too. I am eating all my points daily, but the weight loss is supporting that it is the way to go!

Hope everyone else is doing well!

Beth

 

[rubato]

Good morning ladies. I hope everyone is having a good weekend. It is ridiculously cold here, and I'm not happy about it. I thought it was spring.

Beth: What is ARC? I'm sure I'm just not thinking. I know you will have no problem at all hitting the 170s!

Jackie: I'm so sorry work is so bad right now. Frank has been going through that as well. So, I feel for you. Are the migraines any better? At least you got to run. That really is wonderful news!

Debra: So, are you going to take the new job? Do you really have it in you to take on something else right now? It sounds like fun though.
Yes, eating late and not sleeping are not a good combination. I hope you can get a handle on that.


AFM: I have taken a cue from Debra and managed to hurt my back and shoulder somehow. It's making the shoulder presses really fun. I just lowered the weight and am forcing myself. I think it's a recurrance of my old back problem. I've had it since I developed because my frame is way too small to hold up this stupid chest. But, I haven't had any pain for months, so it was a shocker to wake up to it again. Then, I went to boot camp and she kicked my butt. 1 solid hour of weight lifting on a ball. My shoulder, which was already hurting, got even more sore. And, then, my triceps and pecs were screaming too. That's finally going away, so now, I just have the back pain. I did finally run yesterday, and was able to run slowly.

Eating has been horrible. I've gained weight. I'm getting all my points in with no problem, but just overeating big time. But, I recommitted myself yesterday and am back on track. I am joining the zumba weight loss challenge tomorrow and have to pay $20, so I'd better take it seriously, right? I know I can't lose enough weight to win, but they are also doing a prize for body fat %, and I might be able to do that, if I really commit to it.

Anyway, I hope everyone has a good weekend.

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi Leanies! Hope everyone is having a great weekend so far! Lots of sunshine here but really chilly winds! No snow thankfully but it does feel a little like the winter weather has returned.

Tandy - Try alternating a heat pack/Magic Bag on your shoulder with an ice pack. But it sounds like you need a massage too I had a really difficult time with the eating recently - the thing was, it wasn't even bad food, just huge quantities of food. You know, I was thinking that maybe the cold weather had something to do with it - like how your body wants to eat so it can store up. Sounds like boot camp was a good butt kicking! So I say the next time you reach for a snack, think back to the boot camp and how hard you've been working - say is this snack/food/drink worth my boot camp sweat and tears? Oh and I forgot to mention that the journaling was a big help for me in the last week. Maybe you can give that a shot as well? Oh and I'm totally in for a week of clean eating!

I only bought 6 IPL treatments from the group buy so I'm going to go in on my final appointment and ask if they'll give me another 6 treatments for a similar price. There are a few salons around the city offering a similar package but if they can give me a good deal, I'd rather stick with them.

Beth - How did the cake turn out? I'm really curious because I never thought of putting veggies into a cake before but I'll bet that it makes the cake extra moist! Plus anytime I think of sauerkraut, I think of sausages so I'm really curious! I have a recipe for chocolate zucchini cake but haven't tried it out yet. I'll bet that you make your goal of 170 and then some. You've been giving all of us here a good run for our money! And I'm another one who doesn't know what ARC stands for...

Jackie - Sorry to hear about all the work stress. It seems like the expectation is now for everyone to do (a lot) more with less. It doesn't seem right in a lot of cases because quality drops and stress increases. It's lose-lose in my eyes except I guess the company gets to save $$ Is it possible for them to hire a temp or something like that to pitch in for a couple of days a week. Summer is around the corner so maybe you'll get a summer student to help out?

Congrats on the loss, especially on TOM week! That's a toughie and 0.6 is fantastic!! And WTG on the outdoors run! Definitely different than the TM but so much better in other ways. I had a hard time the first time I ventured out a couple of weeks ago but it's getting better. And like you I'm working on the run/walk intervals. We'll get back to where we were soon enough And congrats on the loss! Stay strong - if you feel like chocolate, try a darker chocolate like Lindt's 85%. I believe there's a little bit less sugar in there.

Debra - I spaced on the dates and missed the 13% code for the ASI photos. Maybe they'll have a code for Easter. Too much going on lately between work, you know who, and trying to find my own place. But that's everyone I think ... lots of stuff going on and not enough time for it all The Disney Dispatch writing gig sounds really interesting! I'll have to check that site out. How many different Disney sites are you writing for?

How's your back and neck doing? Try using a heat pack on it. Sometimes the relief is just temporary but it definitely feels nice and not sure if you're having similar weather but definitely nice on the cool nights.

Post the recipe for the green papaya if you can. It sounds yummy!!

Maria - Yikes what a weekend! Gotta love when you have house guests just suddenly drop by. I don't mind when I know they're coming ahead of time but when you have to scramble and clean. Not fun

For my shoulder press, I held weights in each hand with my palms facing forward, they were kind of in a 'U' shape and I lifted the weights above my head and then brought them back down. I did the shoulder presses as part of a squat, curl and press exercise that I normally do.

You're a fast reader! A coworker lent me 'Kitchen Confidential' and I'm slowly making my way through that. If I could read on the subway to work, I'd be finished in no time. The shaking of the book gives me a headache though.

Jeanne - WTG on the 1.7 loss!! You're so close to onederland!! Keep up the good work!! Quinoa is a grain - it cooks similarly to oatmeal or millet and on it's own it really has no taste. It has a lot of proteins and carbs so if you're looking for an alternative to eating pasta before a race, you could give this a try. I first came across it when I stayed at AKL CL back in 2007 and it was one of the foods they were serving for breakfast. Whole Foods also makes a version at in their prepared foods section that I really like - it has sweet potato, spinach and a citrusy dressing to it.

Cindy - Congrats on the loss! Water intake is tricky when it's cold out. I usually drink room temperature and sometimes I add a bit of lemon or lime to the water. Lemon and ginger is a pretty interesting combo as well. No worries about the other stuff! It's a new week and a new start!

AFM - The eating has been going a lot better since I started journaling. I haven't been 100% good with the sugar but I have stayed away from foods with added sugars and refined too. I keep reading that palm sugar (coconut sugar) isn't considered refined sugar so I've been using that to bake with. My new recipe for the week was for cashew cookies - I sort of made the recipe myself, I hope that counts as a new recipe LOL I'm also looking forward to trying out a recipe for cinnamon coconut cookies today - I'm just waiting for the rif raf to clear out of the kitchen.

The exercise has been going really well! Thanks so much for the challenge Tandy! I haven't been exercising everyday but each day I work out, I make sure to do extra to make up for those days. Thursday I had a killer workout session. My trainer wanted to do a boxing routine - so for those of you who watch BL, it's kind of like the stuff that Brett and Cara do with the contestants. A lot of hitting boxing pads while incorporating squats, pushups, planks and knee ups. And so about the knee ups, apparently I had a lot of stress to get out because I ended up with a nice shiner on my knee. The picture that I posted on FB, was just a couple of hours after it happened. My entire right kneecap is now purple and red I went for a massage today and the RMT did a double take. I think it just looks worse than it really is. But aside from the bruise, it was a kick butt workout and something I really needed. I think he told me afterward that it was a 60 minute workout squeezed into 30

And a lot of the stress is coming from me thinking over whether I want to be friends with my ex. Aren't you all tired of this after a year now I wasn't thinking of a short break - I was thinking of something permanent as in we couldn't be friends again ... ever. I had a talk with him recently about just that and it was upsetting to him. Part of me wishes he would have just said good so it would have been done with but it's hard to throw a friendship away so I keep thinking about it. *sigh* Hence all the baking, it's taken the place of running somewhat. It gives me a chance to clear my mind and relax. And I'm not eating everything I make btw

Have a great day everyone

 

[LisaNJ25]

Hi Ladies!! I know some of you eat chia seeds. Has anyone been having any side effects? I have been taking them for a little over a week. I started having knee pain yesterday and now its going down my legs. It hurts to walk. My fingers are also bloated. This is totally out of the norm for me. I know the seeds has absorbs the water when you soak them and I do drink them like that with water. I am wondering if this is my body getting used to them or if the are just not agreeing with me?

 

[Creativebeth]

Hi girls!

Vicky/Maria: The cake turned out great! You can't taste the sauerkraut at all....cake is really moist and quite rich. Only 6 points a piece! I included a link to the recipe. I recommend it!

http://www.weightwatchers.com/food/rcp/index.aspx?recipeId=140351

Tandy: I am not sure what ARC stands for but it is very much like an elliptical, but I stand straighter on it, which helps me not have back pain. Very low impact, but it does have different programs. I have just done the manual setting, with low incline.

I ended up doing an hour yesterday and today......we'll see how I feel in the morning!

I have been really good about journaling the last few weeks. I know it helps, but I usually don't journal as well as I should. I have been writing everything down for several weeks, and it sure makes a difference. I avoid those foods that I don't want to admit too!!!!

I hope everyone had a nice weekend!

Beth

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi Ladies!! I know some of you eat chia seeds. Has anyone been having any side effects? I have been taking them for a little over a week. I started having knee pain yesterday and now its going down my legs. It hurts to walk. My fingers are also bloated. This is totally out of the norm for me. I know the seeds has absorbs the water when you soak them and I do drink them like that with water. I am wondering if this is my body getting used to them or if the are just not agreeing with me?

I sprinkle chia seeds into my oatmeal or into my protein shakes. I know that you can soak them and drink them with water. I've never done that.

Is it possible that you're having an allergic reaction to it? I'm not a doctor but the swelling makes it sound like it could possibly be an allergy or your body not tolerating them. Or maybe chia seeds are just something you might have to eat in small doses - like how too much of a herb can be toxic to your body?

I would get it checked out with your doctor to be on the safe side. Hope everything works out.