Working on Weight Loss and getting Lean!

[MouseDogMom]

He got the job!

We don't have a start date yet - they're really funny about requesting days off, apparently, and don't want to start him and then have him ask for the next 3 Saturdays off. Since we're going to Indy next weekend, and then his soccer team has their final game the following weekend, we're trying to figure out how to pick a date that won't have him looking like he doesn't want to work. At least there's a light at the end of the tunnel now, so I can go to Indy without feeling quite as guilty!

Thanks for all the good wishes!

Tandy - Yes, I did absolutely no exercise yesterday, except for 20 squats (which I did in the front yard while walking the dog at bedtime last night! I'm sure my neighbors think I'm nuts.) I left work at 2:00 with a migraine, went home, crawled into bed, and crawled out at 6:00. I love the veggie sandwich at Panera - that's my favorite menu option, usually with a salad or bowl of soup! Sounds like you're having so much fun with your mom - I'm jealous. Like Maria, mine has been gone for 4 years now, but even when she was alive, she was basically a hermit and we could never get her interested in going out and doing things. And I remember the last weeks of school, and I am not at all unhappy that DD is in college now and I don't have to deal with that schedule! She's also an only child, and was always much more comfortable around adults than her peers.

Beth - for Heidi. I'm afraid I would have had to say something to the guy at the portapotty. But it's probably a good reminder for all of us that you never know what reason someone has for taking longer than usual... Good job for her for finishing the race, and good for you for being such a wonderful friend and standing by her!

Vicky - I'm pretty sure our weather is safe now. We keep getting a few cool days thrown in, but the really bad heat is lurking right around the corner. After Sunday's run, I know it's there, and I'm really afraid it's going to rear its head before our half in Indy. Somehow I imagine running 2.5 miles around the track will be very, very hot if the temps start climbing.

I should run tonight, but I may do the bike instead and try to ease back into regular weekly runs gradually. DH has soccer practice and then he's going to REI for a heart rate monitor class, so my running partner is bailing on me. My calf has been sore since yesterday, so I'm back to the ibuprofen, and I think I'll continue to treat it nicely until this weekend. Then it has to give this up and get back to business. The Galloway season starts May 29, and I'm not babying it after that!

Jackie

 

[deekaypee]

Quick shout-outs today. I'm teaching myself HTML & it takes all the brain cells I have!

Whoo hoo to all my strong women WISHers! You (we) are all doing great with the challenge. Just the motivation I need to do a run this evening, as I skipped this morning.

Beth: Hugs to your friend Heidi. I can't imagine how difficult that must be. And you're such a wonderful friend. I hope the race was what she needed, and am super proud of you for being her support system. (And restraining yourself from physical violence against the jerk.) Your time on the race was great, and that experience of racing...priceless.

Cindy: Yay for Jillian and feeling on top of things with the eating! I feel the same way about quinoa. I like the taste, and with spicy stuff especially, but I'm not putting it on my list regularly.

Maria: You are so racking up the miles! And I promise you that I'll never serve your roasted seaweed. (Or anyone else, for that matter.) I think your weight loss is fabulous. I can so see you in a "Mom on the Go" outfit. Your DS is proud of you, I can tell! And "Boston Shines"? That sounds really cool. Pittsburgh is a lot of small communities, so Earth Day & street clean ups take on a sort of ad-hoc feel. (At least the ones I've done.) Very cool, nonetheless, but I want the t-shirt.

Vicky: I love cheese plates for dessert. They make me feel, I don't know, European and "grown up!" Yay for your successes with the BL! Thanks for the review of Kick- A$$. I'm a fan of the series, but haven't seen it yet. (It was on DOOD's list of things I can't see without him.) I want to see a pic of your hair!

Jeanne: I'm sorry to read about the injury, but glad to know you're RICE-ing and recovering. The impromptu Greek dance lesson, plus mandatory jello shots, sounds like fun. You'll have to pass on what you've learned to us! Are you excited about the wedding?

Tandy: It sounds like you have great, close & understanding relationship with your mom. That's just wonderful. You know, she'd be a great spectator when you run Goofy. Just saying... And I hope she loved Zumba, wine or no wine! I think you inspire her.

Jackie: Woo hoo to Bill and the new job! And fabulous job with your LR after your PR 5K! Wowsa. (I hope the migraine has run its course, too.) Take it easy with the calf. Oh, and good vegan cooking is a skill I don't have. I hung out at a vegan co-op house in college for a while – dating a guy there, who was oddly a meat-eater – and they made the best food. But me, I tried to go vegan. I was always hungry. Not a good cook, that's for sure.

AFM: I got up late this morning. DOOD got back late last night from his weekend. (12 hours on a bus to Chicago, with students, each way. You couldn't pay me....) So my schedule is a bit off. I'll get the run in, though, as well as errands. The squats are done already, during this morning's teeth brushing!

I'm looking at getting a new digital SLR camera. My little rinky-dink one is dying and I'd like something better (depending on budget). One reason why is that I'd like to do some weekend "hiking" this spring/summer/fall & explore all the greenspace here in Pgh. I think that would be a nice combination of an active exercise that's not a WO (one of my New Year resolutions) and a creative outlet that isn't related to writing, which I kind of need right now. Any of you have suggestions for camera?

 

[Creativebeth]

Good morning Lean Ladies! It's Wednesday! I love Hump Day.

Debra: I did get my dh a Power Shot camera for Christmas, and he loves it! I did some research with the camera guy at Best Buy, and he seemed to really like it and it was easy to work. It even came with a 2G disc! It was on sale and I got it for about $200.00. Seems to be working out well for dh.

I am glad you are getting back to the workouts! It's never easy.....those first runs are the worst! You will get the mojo back soon, I know.

You are doing fantastic with the challenge! Keep up the good work!

Jackie: for dh getting the new job! What a relief! I am glad that you can enjoy the weekend of the race, now that you know he got the job! Have a great time!

Tandy: I am glad you get to spend time with your Mom! I lost my mom in 2001.....I still miss her everyday. I didn't live far from her, and saw her many times during the week, and talked to her everyday on the phone. I still want to pick up the phone and talk to her......wish I could. Enjoy the time with her!!!! And, fantastic that she joined you in Zumba!

AFM: I did get a fantastic 7 miles in yesterday morning. I got 4 miles in at 11:00 min miles, and the last 3 miles in 10:00 min miles. I felt really good, especially since I just ran a 1/2 on Sunday. I was pleased with that! Last night was a bad night though.....didn't sleep well, and had a bad headache...so I didn't get up today to run. I will have to try to run later. I knew it wouldn't be a good run, but I have hopes that my headache will improve over the day, and a later run will be better.

My marathon is luming soon.....beginning of June! I am getting freaked out now!

Beth

 

[bunnyfoo]

Morning everyone!

Beth - Congrats to you and Heidi on running the 1/2 last weekend! for Heidi, I can't imagine what's she's going through. Sorry about that jerk you ran into on course. That made me really angry reading about it. I mean who the heck times people while they're using the toilet and second of all, he's a guy - he can go in the bushes or behind a dumpster!! WTG on your 7 miler yesterday, especially the last 3 miles! You keep getting speedier!

Debra - Hmm... a picture, I'll have to figure that one out It will probably be of me taking a shot of myself in a mirror. I have a Canon 790IS which I bought 2 years ago. It's really great and easy to take with me on races like Disney. The funny thing I noticed is that it stops my waist pouch from riding up and bouncing around. The hiking sounds like fun! I'll bet you find a really nice spot for writing. Watch out for the wildlife Good luck with the HTML - does this mean you're starting up a site?

Jackie - Congrats to DH on the new job! That's fantastic news! for your calf! Are you going to try an ART session to treat it or even better a massage Did you end up biking or running last night?

Maria - WTG on your 6 miler! I have no doubt that the weight will be coming off, especially with your consistency with your exercise and workout routines. That's so cute that your son notices your weekend wear! Does he ever have offer any critiques on your outfits?

Tandy - Your Zumba story reminds me of when my mom use to take me to her aerobics class many (many) years ago. She was an ace on all the routines and I was the one with two left feet Glad to hear to hear she stuck with it for the whole class. An esthetician I use to see told me that no matter how bad you think your feet are, someone else always has worse feet ... and that there isn't much that bothers her because she says she's seen it all.

AFM - I've made an appointment to get an accupuncture session on Thursday after training. Yikes! Did I mention I hate needles - lucky for my chiro I think when I was talking to my PT about, he was somewhat relieved he wouldn't be doing it. I did end up talking to one of the other girls at the gym about it. She said she doesn't like needles either and had accupuncture done on her knee a couple of weeks ago with my chiro. It was actually pretty reassuring because she described exactly what happens and it didn't seem too bad. Will let everyone know how it goes tomorrow!

DF got an invite to an ex-girlfriend's wedding in Boston but wasn't sure if I was invited. I think he "talked" to her about the wedding over email but hadn't actually received a paper invite yet. He said something about them trying to keep the ceremony small but I can't imagine a wedding invitation that doesn't include a guest.

But ... I figure it's just as well since we seem to be back on the relationship troubles again. Can't remember if I mentioned what the whole thing was about before - it started back in March when we were having a talk about spending too much time together (which was true). It kind of threw me off because I'm pretty good at seeing these things coming. He then told me that he wasn't sure if we should be together anymore. He gave me a couple of reasons - he felt that he wasn't growing as much with me in terms of relationships with other people, he felt he couldn't talk to me about certain things like abstract concepts vs. practical concepts but mostly that he didn't feel like he was the same person when we met. We were doing a "one day at a time" approach but now I'm thinking maybe I just shouldn't be seeing him for a while. What a mess Sorry for the long post...

 

[Creativebeth]

Vicky: Oh, how I know! Relationships can be hard. No way around it. Sometimes the hardest thing to do is walk away (even if you know it's for the best). I have to say, it doesn't get any easier when you are married!

I am not a relationship expert, but sometimes taking 'a break' is the best way to know what to do. Your df seems indesisive with what he wants. That's never a good plan. In the end, it always becomes "our fault"......been there with my husband.

Maybe give him some time to figure it all out himself! He's a big boy.....let him know that you are there, but don't make any decisions for him. Better that than to be blamed if things don't work out later.

I have made some decisions in our married life, that I always go back to look at. Hoping that I made the right decisions.....you never really know, do you?

I am glad you felt like you could share the issues here......I know weight loss is our original focus, but life issues need to be addressed too!

Beth

 

[mandac]

Hi All -

Hope everyone is doing great. I don't have time to read through all the old posts right now, and it has been a LONG time since I have posted. Hopefully it hasn't been too long and I am still welcome

I got home from a wonderful vacation on Monday and it is time to get back to living! The trip was great (a week in Grand Cayman - LOVED it!) but the pictures of me in a swim suit are not . I am signed up for a 5K next week. I thought it would keep me motivated and moving on the trip, but it was SO hot and SO humid (I am from Utah, we don't do humidity here) that I couldn't do it. I hoped I could count snorkeling and scuba as my exercise, but I don't know if that works.

But I am back now. I have my 5K next week, and then 6 weeks to my 10K. I hope to get back in to the routine. I really want to lose some weight - really really really really want to! I am going grocery shopping tonight to fill the empty fridge and pantry, hopefully I remember how much I want to get healthy when I am filling my cart.

Thanks for all the support you all give me. I really need it now - it is time to make some serious changes in my life, and I can't do it alone!

 

[bunnyfoo]

I thought about going back to erase the post after I made it - I thought what a great way to kill a thread. But then I figured everyone would have gotten it anyway in that new post email ...

Thanks for the advice Beth! Definitely will think about it and I have to agree with you about the "our fault" part I think a lot of it jut feels like a big kick in the pants .. But I definitely have some things to think over.

 

[Creativebeth]

Vicky: I am glad you felt you could 'talk' to us. All of these issues can bring us down, and make a healthy lifestyle very difficult. This is truly a safe zone to discuss our issues. You are one of us, and you are always have good advice when we need it. I only hope that our advice helps you. If you are sure of what YOU want, never settle for less. You are strong and independent, and worthy of all the best!

Beth

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Vicky -- You aren't keeping me away, it's my work! I am determined to get on today and do a "real" post...for now, I had an application due yesterday, I have to give testimony at a hearing tonight, and I have to start the next application which is going to be more complicated than expected, and also has a quick due date. I've woken up for the last 2 days with the chills and unable to do anything but just keep going to work...yep, that's 2 days without a workout. My streak ended at 23 days. STill did those squats, though...

As for the relationship advice -- what Beth said! It's hard, and of course no one wants to lead you astray. Just do what feels best for you -- trust your instincts. Sometimes when our conscious minds are confused, we can see what we need through our feelings.

You have our sympathy, our empathy, and a safe place to let it all out. No matter what, we're always on your side

Maria

 

[Cindylou]

Good Morning Leanies.

Maria: Hope you are feeling better soon and things at work ease up a bit. Most weeks I probably do get 28 activity pts, but it’s not spread out evenly thru out the week. I think I need to do a better job of that. More about that below.

Vicky: So sorry for the issues with DF. Much better to deal with it now and be sure that he’s the right one, or not, than to question it forever. Maybe now is a good time to focus on yourself. Remember that you are a catch and if DF doesn't acknowledge that then maybe he's not the right one. Good luck to you and many HUGS.

Manda: Welcome back. I’m glad you enjoyed your vacation, now get back to work! I’m hoping you feel rested and full of energy and ready to tackle the healthy eating & lots of exercise lifestyle that you know is right for you.

Beth: Hope your headache has gone away. Great job on your half and all the support you gave to Heidi. I’m so sorry for her loss. Unfortunately I know how hard that is as I lost one at 16 wks and one at 22. She will get thru this. I hope that running gives her an outlet for her grief. No freaking out over your marathon yet, that’s what the taper is for.

Debra: Good for you for teaching yourself HTML. I tried that once and gave up. It was right after my twins were born so I didn’t have enough brain cells for it. I have a Canon EOS Rebel. I’ve been meaning to check to see which model as I don’t remember, but now I’m at work and the camera is not. I really like the camera and am much happier with my pictures than I was with my point and shoot digital. I have an 18-55mm lens I use routinely and bought a 200mm for shots of the kids playing soccer, baseball, etc. I haven’t had the time to experiment with it much, so I generally just leave it on Auto everything and it takes some pretty good pictures.

Jackie: Yea!! For DH’s new job. Hopefully he can enjoy the next few weeks off before starting up. Will he have to work on Saturdays? I hope that won’t interfere with your race schedules too much. Hope the calf is feeling good. I hope you enjoyed your day off and your piriformis is feeling better.

Tandy: I’m so glad you are having a good time with your Mom. I feel guilty that every time my Mom comes to visit I put her to work cleaning my house or folding laundry. She’ll be here in a couple weeks, so I’m determined to find something fun to do with her. Hmmm.

Jeanne: Congrats on still losing weight with all the celebrations going on. I hope your injury recovers soon.

I am feeling pretty motivated to lose this extra weight I’ve found over the past 3 months. I realized this past weekend that it was just 10 weeks until 4th of July. If I really try I can get to my goal weight by then. It will be so nice to enjoy the entire summer feeling lean.
I have been pretty good this week about tracking WW pts, but I still have a hard time counting my dinner pts. That is the busiest time of day, so to take the time to measure things out and calculate pts seems too much. I should just estimate it and write it down and be done with it. That would be better than not doing anything. I’m planning on getting back to WW meetings next Monday. I will try to make it to meetings 10 weeks in a row. Please hold me to that.
I’ve figured out that if I really want the WW thing to work for me I need to be able to eat more pts. When I first joined I was allowed 28 pts. But now that I’ve lost weight I only get 21 pts. 28 seemed manageable, 21 does not. I figure that if I can earn 7 activity pts a day then I can eat a reasonable amount of food and save my 35 flex pts for a splurge once a week. We have First Communion and birthday parties for most of the next 8 weekends, so I can use them there.
I sat down with my calendar and tried to figure out how to fit in 7 activity pts each day and it was something like a jigsaw puzzle, especially on days I work. 9 hrs of work, 2 hrs of commuting, 7 hrs of sleep so that leaves 6 hrs for cooking, cleaning, taking care of kids, DISing and exercising. Yikes! Weekend days should be a bit easier. I have several yard projects to do, so as long as we are not at one of the parties I mentioned I can earn some activity pts by working in the yard.

Have a great day everyone.
Cindy

 

[deekaypee]

Oh, Vicky! You didn't kill the thread! (I've been checking in every other day.)

My sympathy – my empathy – for the relationship situation. What Beth, Maria, and Cindy said. Every relationship has its ebbs and flows. (Mine enjoys a lot of low tides.) I think it's good that you and DF are having up-front conversations. And just to piggyback/restate what others have said: whatever DF is saying, and however he's wording it (which perhaps isn't the best), I think he's trying to express something that's going on with him and that affects the relationship. It may be an "our" problem but it's not your fault or responsibility to solve it for him.

When this happens with me & DOOD, I try to take a deep breath, step back, and say the serenity prayer. Focus on me and what I need and my reactions. Much easier said than done, and I often fail. But like running, I get better at it the more I do it!

Not trying to minimize your situation, not at all. To be honest, my first reaction in reading the post was, "The relationship 'issues' are not about you. They're about him, and on him. Jack slap a little sense into him." But that's coming from a protective position for you. Relationships are much more complicated than that. (Why are we in them, again?)

So I hope you take some time for yourself, looking at what you want, need and deserve. Just know we're all hear to listen and be sounding boards.

Speaking of support systems, welcome back Manda! Your trip sounds wonderful, and you really were active. I do hope your 5K goes well, but just getting out there is a big step. I've also been off the band wagon and just getting back the mojo, so I know how it feels. (Wouldn't want to see pics of me in a swimsuite. )

Beth:[/B Negative splits on your 7 miler. That's fantastic! I don't think you have anything to worry about with your marathon, if those blasted headaches will stay away.

And ITA that the life issues are often those that complicate our attempt to live healthier (and happier) lifestyles, whether work issues, moving, relationships, even happy things like Jeanne's string of weddings!

It's all so complicated, particularly because we live in a multitasking world. I was reading an article about mindfulness, saying that it's hard to take care of ourselves because most of us (in American culture) aren't present and "in the moment" whenever we're doing things. We're always planning the next thing, thinking about something else, feeling like we should be doing something more "productive." That's the way I feel, anyway, and one reason I like running. More than other exercise, except yoga for me (sometimes), it keeps me in the moment. Aware. And that's healthy, I think.

Okay, sorry for the digression....

Maria: Wowsa, another busy day! You are so productive and such a fast writer. I stand in awe. Well, really, I'm sitting but the smiley speaks for me. Your streak didn't "end" at 23 days because you still did squats. And secondly, your streak lasted over 3 weeks! I hope you're feeling better, though.

Cindy: I can so hear the motivation to get rid of those 10 pounds in your post. You've got the deadline, the WW point plan down, and doing your jigsaw puzzle for activity points. Just looking at your schedule gave me a headache, btw. Two hours of commute time. Ouch. I think you should put cleaning to the way side, not the DISing. If my vote counts. Btw, I was pleased to see you didn't think about cutting back on sleep!

AFM: Thanks for the recommendations for cameras. I'll be looking at those, and DOOD suggested I look at some of my Flickr contacts to see what they use. (Good idea, too.) I've got time to explore a bit, as I want it to be a camera I can be happy with for a variety of photographic situations.

I did get out for a run Tuesday (and worked out yesterday). Our post office hasn't been picking up or delivering the mail to our building, so I decided to run up to the main office and then go from there. On the way out the door, I ran into an elderly neighbor whose bills hadn't been pick up for delivery. So I offered to take her mail to the office along with mine. She was grateful, but I had to endure a lecture on how running isn't good for the body and I should walk. Why, people, why say things like that?

I haven't headed out yet today, but I'm planning on repeating the route generally & do an errand run. It kind of disrupts the non-training but keeps me outside and active a bit longer. It's good, too, to have the breaks while I'm still trying to get up to speed again.

 

[rubato]

Good afternoon everyone.
I’ve been a little MIA since I feel guilty hanging out on the computer when my mom is trying to talk to me 24 hours a day! Sorry.

Debra: I’m interested in a DSLR too, but hubby is balking. He seems to think they are too big, cumbersome, and limited unless you have tons of lenses. But, I really only take outdoor, vacation pics, and enjoy taking quality photos, so it makes sense to me. Most of the artwork on my walls are blown up shots I have taken around the world.
Don’t you just love the unsolicited advice you get from people about running? Thanks, but worry about yourself people!

Cindy: It sounds like you have a super busy time coming up. It’s great that you’re already planning everything out all the way to the 4th. I loved WW until I lost enough weight to only get 20 pts a day. I never lost another pound after that. But, if I had just stuck to the 22, I probably would have been fine. Your plans all sound great and I hope they can all be worked out.

Maria: I hope you make it back soon and update us on your busy life.

Beth: Is the headache any better? Did you get your run in last night? Great job running 7 after the half. That’s really outstanding! I am sure that looming marathon is started to become real, but your mileage is up there. What is your goal for the race, if you don’t mind sharing?

Manda: Welcome back! I have been a size 2 and hated myself in a swimsuit (of course that was a long time ago and I would kill to look like that again!), so maybe it’s not as bad as it seems! I love Grand Cayman. Actually, I love anywhere with turquoise water and white sand. I am a huge fan of the Virgin Islands. Can’t wait to hear more!

Vicky: What a mess. I’m sorry you’ve been dealing with this. I have to agree with everyone that it sounds like his issue, not yours. The one good thing in all of this is that he is communicating. If that can continue, it will work out if it is meant to. If not, it sounds like you are ready for it! I hope it can resolve itself one way or the other. Hubby and I have been together for 20 years and we have been on our way to divorce 3 times. We’ve managed to come back stronger each time, but man, relationships are HARD!!!!

Jackie: Congratulations!!!!! That’s the best news I’ve heard in a long time! I’m so happy he got it. Now, if we could just get your leg healed up!

AFM: Well, we’re on day 6 of the visit and we’re still getting along! It’s a bit shocking because we usually drive each other crazy after 3! She’s gone walking with me 3 times this week, and seems to enjoy herself. I’m sorry to all of the ladies who have lost their mothers. I can’t imagine how I would handle that at this point. But, my mom is only 58. Of course, I know that doesn’t mean anything.
My eating has been atrocious! I have been getting all my points, but I’m overeating a ton because we’re going out all the time. I’m just now home from lunch with my brother at a burger joint where I ate a whole ¼ pound burger, a whole order of waffle fries and a pina colada shake! Japanese steakhouse last night with a mango martini (yummy) and I can’t even remember past that point! At least I’ve been running and walking. No lifting though, because my mom is just sitting whenever I do something, and again, the guilt! I did get my vegetarian day point, which was so easy!
My son turned in his school project today and has no school tomorrow, so we are taking a nice breather tomorrow. Baseball game tonight where he gets to be the starting pitcher in 40 mph wind gusts. It will make for an exciting game! I just hope the wind is at his back!

Hope everyone is doing well!
Tandy

 

[Creativebeth]

Hey Lean Ladies!

Tandy: I am glad you are having a nice visit with Mother! And, bonus that you are getting along! My marathon goal is to finish better than my previous marathon (not hard, it was something like 6:20!) and feel strong. That's all. And I hope I can 'vacation' afterwards without much difficulty!
My kids have a baseball game here too.....also with the winds a blowing!!

Debra: I agree with Tandy......people can keep their opinioun to themselves! Did you get your mail ok? What's the deal that the mailman isn't bringing it? I am glad that you got a run in!

Manda: Welcome back!

AFM: Yes, I got my run in last night (5 miles) and 7 miles this morning. My day off, and I am still having to get up at 5AM to get it done. I had way to many things to do today......it couldn't wait! I did the same thing as Tuesday......4 11 min miles then ended up with 3 more at 10:00 min miles. I have to be creative to get it all done!

Tomorrow I am attempting 20 miles.....ugh! I am looking at 4 hours of running! Don't know if I am ready for it or not!

Beth

 

[mandac]

Thank you all for the welcome back!

Cindy: Sounds like there is nothing standing in your way! I guess I may need to join WW one of these days. I have never done it, but know a lot of people who have. Most people I know didn’t succeed too well. But the people on this board seem to do just great! Maybe I will buy it for myself as a present. I need to make some changes, and maybe that will do it for me.

Debra: I love the idea of running out to do errands. Back in my thinner days I would even walk to the store. However, that was more to keep my shopping down (I knew I had to carry back whatever I bought, so I didn’t buy as much). I moved and that isn’t as convenient for me, but maybe I should get back into doing that type of thing more often. Sorry for the neighbor’s comments. If it helps, I get them too, and I am a walker. I have people tell me that I could burn so many more calories if I would run. Sure I could – only my knees don’t let me! OH well. People will be people.

Tandy: Good luck at your son’s game. Baseball in the wind is not the best, but it is always fun to have a game to go to. Sounds like you are doing great even with the visitor. Good job on not letting it be an excuse. Amazing!

AFM: It was a wonderful trip. We spent a week (Saturday to Sunday) in Grand Cayman. I had never been there before. It was a large family trip, and went better than expected. My parents, my little sister, my older sister, her husband, and her 3 kids (4,2, and 1) came. We stayed in a house near Rum Point. It was perfect. We snorkeled nearly every day. I did get a killer sunburn which I was trying so hard to avoid! Guess my white winter skin wasn’t ready for the sun yet. I finished 2 books and just relaxed. Something I really needed.

I have a goal to come on here and post everyday – at least every week day. (weekends get away from me). I think if I do that I will have to be honest and maybe that will motivate me to stay on track. I don’t know how I let the entire month of April go by and not do a single thing! I have to admit that I didn’t exercise yesterday, or this morning. I am planning on a 30 minute walk after work. It is snowing outside, so I guess it will be on the treadmill, but anything is better than nothing and I need to get back! I think I am at my maximum weight. I seem to have stayed here for about a year without trying. But it is time to try, and try hard. I am really motivated this time (I keep telling myself) so I am also going to try and keep a WISH journal, maybe that will also keep me going.

It isn’t just about looking good in a swim suit this time either. Maybe that will help me in the long run. My DH and I have been married for going on 3 years. I turned 30 this year, and we have been more serious in our talk of starting a family. However, being over 30 it is already an increased risk. I really want to be at a healthy weight before we start seriously trying. Then again, it my never happen anyway, because I have told DH I don’t want to have kids until he gets a real job (he is unemployed, I make all the money and handle the insurance). I think that is one of my main frustrations. I want to get in shape for this big event – but I don’t know if it is going to happen. I don’t want to work crazy hard and then have him not keep his end of the bargain. I guess the worst case is that I am healthy and we wait another year of school. Nothing wrong with being healthy right?

Sorry if that is way TMI. It is nice to get it out. It is hard sometimes when I feel all alone in this.

 

[bunnyfoo]

Hi ladies! I tried to get on all day at work and everytime I'd log onto DIS, someone would show up at my desk and I'd have to close the window. They must have known I was trying to post

I just wanted to say a big thank-you for all the support and kind words. It really means a lot to me that I can share with everyone I can definitely use all the perspective I can get. We've been together for 14 years so maybe I've gotten too comfortable in our relationship. I dunno. DF and I are going to meet tomorrow and talk some more - should be interesting.

Manda - Welcome back! Your trip to the Grand Cayman sounded like a lot of fun! I don't think you can ever go wrong with a trip where you can just sit on the beach and relax! You should join our BL challenge. Beth posted the details about it a couple of pages back.

Beth - Good luck with your 20 miler! Sounds like you're planning to do it all in one shot. I think you're awesome at fitting in everything you do along with your running. Can't wait to hear how it goes.

Tandy - Glad your mom's visit is going well and that she's coming out to exercise with you. Eating is a tough one when you have guests. When we go out for meals, I try eating a little something just before we leave - baby carrots, yogurt, a piece of fruit, a small bowl of soup and then I find I won't eat as much while I'm out. It usually works ... unless dessert is involved and then all bets are off.

Debra - I wonder what's going on with your mail. Maybe the mail carrier is off sick? So no good deed goes unrewarded huh I've gotten my share of "running is bad for you" lectures but some of them are slowly coming around. Especially after they realize that it's a lifestyle change for me. Are you keeping up with yoga? I've found a yoga studio close to my new office building so I may try going to a couple of classes after work.

Cindy - When I did WW way back, I found that 20 points was tough to do. 23 worked out well for me - funny how the 3 extra points can make a difference. I think the points will be great for helping you to stay on track during the next few weekends. And I have to agree that there are not enough hours during the day. I spend about 2 hours commuting too - I wish I could live closer to the downtown core but the prices go right up.

Maria - That sounds like a crazy busy day. Hope you're not coming down with anything - remember to take a few moments for yourself. I am impressed that your workout streak has gone on for three weeks and I agree with Debra, it hasn't ended because of the squats.

AFM - I had a quick training session today. Thursdays seems to be my deadlifting days now that I've got my workout bud Darryl with me on Mondays. Today, we did a few light sets and moved onto heavy sets of 140 lbs - 6 sets of 3 reps. I made it to 5 and then my back didn't feel up to it anymore.

I did my acupuncture treatment right afterward. My chiro was really good at explaining everything he was going to do. He used four needles - one in my foot, two in my outer upper calf and the last one went into my ankle ligament. I didn't really feel the needles go in except for the ankle one - that was not pleasant. Then he had to turn the needles which helps the muscle fibers straighten out. I kept my eyes closed the whole time ('cause I'm a big baby ) but the needles stayed in for less than 5 minutes. It wasn't the worse thing I've had done but I hope it helps my ankle heal because I'd rather not do it again I'm going to try running a short 2-3 miles on Saturday and see how things go. I'm really looking at getting out there after spending the past month watching all the runners in my neighbourhood.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed for a loss or maintenance this week. Too much stress and I went to Chipotle one night. I ate a salad but it had cheese on it. I guess we'll see...

Have a great night everyone!

 

[Creativebeth]

Biggest Loser Results Week Three:

It's Friday Ladies! Time to check in!

Vicky: Down 1.1 with 34 points

Debra: Up 2.0 with 40 points

Maria: Up 2.0 pounds (don't worry sweetie! It will come back off! ) points 45

Tandy: Up 1.0 pound with 44 points

Jeanne: 195.6 (Down 2.3 for the week!) with 39 points

Kim:

Cindy: 147.2 down 1.0 pound for the week with 45 points

Jackie: 137.8 down 1.1 pounds with 34 points

Beth: Up 1.0 pound at 173 with 44 points

For Week Four:

1. Same points apply for Healthy Habits.

2. Exercise challenge for the week is planks. You need to hold a plank position for 60 seconds. You can do it all at once, or break it up into any increments you want ( 4, 15 seconds each, etc). A plank will really help our core muscles! Hold a push up position with forearms on the floor. 60 seconds a day will add a point a day.

3. Bonus point (just one!) this week will be to find an news, magazine, or internet article about healthy living, exercise, weight loss, or nutrition. Read the article and post one fact that you learned by reading it. Any article regarding your "new" lifestyle will count! There are plenty on the internet to find!!!!

 

[rubato]

Good morning everyone.

Beth: I love both new challenges. This is going to be a great week!

Now, for the bad news. I am up 1 pound to 144. I knew it was going to happen, but it hurt to see it in front of me.

I earned 44 points for the week. Only had 1 bad exercise day and 1 day of not getting all my food points.

Hope everyone else had a good week!

 

[MouseDogMom]

Checking in:

Weight - 137.8
Points - 34 (including a vegetarian day)

Vicky - I'm really curious to hear how the acupuncture works out and if it seems to help the ankle. My niece is actually studying acupuncture, but she's in CA, so I don't have easy access to her or I'd give it a try. Fortunately, I'm not needle-phobic! I am thinking that I should probably call my chiro and schedule an ART session, just to try and get this calf issue under control once and for all. Good luck talking with DF today. And we're always here to listen. I think my favorite thing about this group is the small size and the fact that we can "unload" on each other when things are tough! And like Beth said, we have to deal with these issues as part of having healthy bodies.

Debra - I'm pretty sure Bill has the Canon Rebel as well, along with a collection of lenses. He's getting lazier these days, and has started using the Kodak point-and-shoot that he bought for Annie and me (all three of us have the same camera now), but when he's serious he takes the Rebel. And more power to you for learning HTML. He's working on some website stuff right now (but exactly what escapes me, or maybe I never paid attention int he first place? ) and is constantly spouting terms that mean nothing to me. As for the neighbor's not-so-helpful advice, over Thanksgiving one of my in-laws tried to give me the line about running being hard on my joints. I quickly fired back with the studies that show that runners actually have less occurrences of arthritis and joint pain than non-runners. Don't tell me not to run. I'm not going to listen to you!

Beth - Which marathon did you decide on? I know I'm supposed to remember, but I'm getting old... Good luck on the 20 miles. Somehow that sounds so much less foreboding than 4 hours of running! I am NOT looking forward to those days. I swore earlier this year that IF I decided on another marathon that I wasn't running longer than 16 in training, but I'm sure I'll do more once we get to that point in the training runs. What I don't know about is if I'll do the whole schedule, since Galloway actually goes to 26 in his plan. UGH!

Manda - Welcome back! Humidity is a terrible thing, especially if you're not used to it. We had our first humid day of the spring last weekend, and I not-so-fondly remembered what it's like to run while dripping wet. Like Vicky said, join in our challenge. We're just starting week 4 of 6, but just picking up some of the habits should help you with your weight loss goals. And you are absolutely not alone - that's why we're here. Feel free to share the successes, and the bad moments as well. We certainly have the past few days!

Maria - Hope you're feeling better. Another vote for the streak not ending. You still did some exercise, and that counts!

Cindy - Unfortunately, the new job will require DH to work weekends. He'll get 2 days off each week, which is 2 more than he was getting with the previous job (not that he's a workaholic or anything, but he worked 7 days a week, even when we were away for a race!), but they require all managers and assistants to work weekends. He doesn't get to set his schedule, so it's really going to affect his training, at least as far as the Galloway season goes. And I may have to work my runs around his schedule if I want to continue running with him, which I do! But hey, it's a JOB!

Tandy - I can't get my points if we go out to eat. I order all the wrong stuff, or the restaurant doesn't even offer the right stuff. At least you've been running, which is more than I can say for myself most nights!

Jeanne - How's the knee? Any more showers and/or parties?

After 3 days of being a slug, I finally made it out to run last night. We did 5.5 miles - DH was trying to keep his heart rate at 142, based on what he learned at his heart rate monitor class at REI, which meant that we ran mostly around an 11:30 pace. It felt really, really slow to me, which I think is a good thing, but was probably good for my legs. I think my article for next week will be related to heart rate and fat burning and/or lactate threshhold, which is what he's trying to figure out right now. As with everything else, there are differing opinions depending on what you read, so what we did last night and what he read when we got home varied quite a bit!

And I'll try the planks, but I may not get any exercise points this week if they start bothering my shins like they have been. I'm not going to risk further injury!

Jackie

 

[Cindylou]

Good Morning Ladies.

First for the good news. 147.2 today which means I lost the gained weight from last week and an additional lb. Yea!! I earned 45 pts this week. The water thing is the hardest for me. My vegetarian choice this week was actually 2 different ones. I made Thai Curry Soup that was SOOOOO delicious. Both DH and I loved it, the kids didn't which just meant more for us. College Inn makes a Thai Coconut Curry broth and the recipe was on the back. Yum, I highly recommend it if you can find the broth. Of course I looked at the grocery store today and couldn't find it, but since I go to 3 different ones, it might have been at one of the other ones. My second Veggie dish was Ratatouille. I was hoping that the kids would like it because of the movie. They weren't in the mood to try new things that night so I got 3 thumbs down. I found it was only OK, but I'm not a huge eggplant fan. In the past I've used Asian eggplant for soups, and I've liked that, but the Farmer's market didn't have that so I used regular eggplant which was a bit too strong for me. My DH liked it, so that's a good thing. I'm desperately trying to get him to eat healthier.

Jackie: Glad you got out for a run. I'll be interested in hearing what you learn about the HR training. I wonder what is to be gained by running really slow (if you are feeling able to run faster). I hope you do call the chiro to get your calf treated. Too bad about DH's weekends, but you're right it is a JOB. Can't beat that.

Tandy: Glad you are still enjoying your visit with your Mother. Up just one pound sounds OK with all the eating out and no lifting. You'll make up for it once she's gone. I really think you can take great pictures with a DSLR with just one all purpose lens. My 18-55 is what I use 95% of the time with great results. Tell your DH it's not too cumbersome. I just bought a larger purse and it fits in there nicely.

Vicky: Hope the needles helped. Good luck with the run. Your deadlifting is very impressive.

Manda: You need to do your part to get yourself healthy despite what DH decides to do. Having kids is a big life changing event so it's good that you discuss it, but it will be easier to convince him if you show him how important it is to you by getting yourself healthy. Good luck.


Beth: Good luck with the 20. Just think about the mile you are running and don't let the others intimidate you.

I've got to run out now to help in my DS's classroom.

Have a great day everyone.

Cindy

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Well, it's about time I checked in...warning: read at your own risk, I have not been the poster child for exercise or eating right for the last 3 days...

I'm afraid to see what I weigh tomorrow. I'm honestly not going to be surprised if I'm up 4 or 5 lbs. I can also tell my body is getting ready for TOM, so that's not helping...oh well. It will be what it is, and Monday is a new week. Why Monday? Because dh announced he invited my FIL and his wife for lunch Sunday, which means I have to spend my weekend cleaning. And these are not my favorite people. They treat ds like a lower form of life than his cousins (to be fair, they are almost the same to my nieces, but completely different with his dw's grandchildren). The only reason they ever see my nieces is they live in FL and they like to get out of the winter. They live an hour from us, and it doesn't matter whether we offer to go there, meet them in the middle or invite them down, they just can't ever seem to make it. These are the same people who cancelled for Easter the night before.

Anyway, as you know I haven't felt great -- I still have the chills when I wake up and then periodically throughout the day -- and I haven't ran since Monday. I'm hoping ot do my 8M tomorrow, but honestly, at this point it's doubtful. I know I won't have time to clean the inside of the house if I run, and dh has announced he will be working outside, and actually expects me to do so as well (which we had planned and I was looking forward to before he invited the morons -- and I don't use that term lightly, my FIL told my ds then 4 that cats used to be dogs at the turn of the century). He was completely serious...I really wanted to stay home and sleep today, but I knew I needed to go to work. Okay, enough whining. Let's just say all bets are probably off until after they leave. I know that is not a good attitude, but between PMS and the stress of the ILs, I'm finding it hard to be myself.

Cindy -- Fantastic news on the weight loss! I also don't like eggplant unless it's dipped in batter and fried , so not much of that passes my lips. How is spreading the activity points out working for you? I have to remember it's better to do a little each day than nothing. Maybe I will run a few miles instead of 0, since I don't have time for 8

Jackie -- It is really hard to change your schedule when you are used to it and it works for you. I know it is well worth it for the employment, but it's still a change. I think you guys will just have to feel your way through and find out how to make it work for you. If it's not perfect every week that's ok, you are on a learning curve.

Tandy -- Have no fear, I will be up more than you. I'm definitely below the yellow line this week! 44 points sounds great to me, especially with your mom visiting!

Beth -- I can't wait to give plank a try. This is going to be interesting. I wonder if I'll be better at that than the push-ups? 20 miles?! Fantastic. You are going to do great at your marathon!

Vicky -- Acupuncture is definitely not for me. I really hope this is what you need to heal. Sending

Manda -- As any mom here will tell you (ok, it may just be me, but I doubt it), the healthier you are before giving birth, the better it will be for everyone. It will also be easier for you to return to your pp weight, if you are strong and exercise is a regular part of your life. And new babies are exhausting! It's much better if you are feeling your best before you put yourself in that situation. I wouldn't worry so much about being over 30, just over 30 doesn't have much more risk than 28 or 29...all that said, here's a , 'cause it sounds like you have alot to think about and work through.

Debra -- You have the patience of Job. How do I know? Because you just happily went along and got that woman's mail, rather than giving her a lecture about how running is actually a fantastic cardio workout!

Jeanne -- How's that knee feeling, Wedding Warrior? I think that should be your nickname, 'cause you are earning the title!

I hope that every one of you has a better weekend than I'm expecting!

Maria