Working on Weight Loss and getting Lean!

[Worfiedoodles]

I promise to do a long, lovely catch up post/race report later -- got back Wednesday, went to work yesterday, have to get an application out the door this morning -- so probably won't get to do it until this afternoon.

Wishing Debra safe travels, Beth an excellent prognosis, and marvelling at the awesome "postiness" this week -- catching up may take awhile!

Also, I've decided to start the Challenge next Tuesday, at least in full form. I'm so behind everywhere, I need to get my mind and body settled and then I will post my starting weight (don't worry Beth, it will be more than yours!), and jump in with everyone. I am going to go back and see what we are supposed to be doing, and try to begin getting on board.

Happy Friday, my Lean Buddies!
Maria

 

[rubato]

Welcome back Maria! I can't wait to hear about your trip. I think it makes sense to wait until next week to start. Did you have an amazing time or what?

Beth: Good luck today. We've all got our fingers crossed for good news!

Debra: Have a fantastic trip. Good luck with the breakfasts and the working out.

Jackie: Well, it sounds like you're getting enough water for sure! No one can say we're retaining water anymore! That pot pie does sound good. Maybe when I'm off this diet, I'll try it. It certainly sounds easy enough for me to make it, since I'm not the best cook. I can understand buying the stuff already cut up, but, since I'm a stay at home mom, I don't think I can justify it! Something about having all day to cook and clean.

Vicky: The cake sounds good, but I'm not going to make it right now. I have no willpower. I would just eat the whole thing. Really! Thank you for the compliment about my weight. You are sweet. I weighed 136 the day we went to Disneyworld, but I got up to 146 by the time I realized what I was doing to myself. Something about eating as if you are training for a marathon, but you aren't running much, kind of did me in!
I think you would do really well in some sort of nutrition, fitness field. You are very motivated and knowledgable about it all. Plus, you seem to have a passion for it. Just my 2 cents worth. I'm sure you'll figure it out.

AFM: Boot camp was a KILLER last night. The instructor (I wish I could remember her name) had us do a lot of sprints which was really fun for me. Wind sprints were fun. I was ahead of everyone by at least one line, and sometimes 2. They all kind of looked at me funny, and one of the guys seemed pissed. I told him I was a runner, and he relaxed a little. It's just a class dude! The worst thing she did was this leg exercise where we tied an exercise band around our ankles, which meant we had to keep tension to keep it from falling down and then we did this whole set of exercises. It really worked the outside of the thigh/butt area. And, let's face it, that's a good area to work! She did situps, so I got that in. 2 days of those so far!

I ate cauliflower again last night. Have I mentioned how much I dislike cauliflower? Well, I ate it again, and it's still just as bad. So far, I haven't tried my new recipe. I have to figure out if that's even going to happen this week. With all these WW meals, it's just too easy to not really cook.

Oh, Frank and Harrison are still doing great. Harrison has lost another pound so far this week. Frank isn't sharing, but I'm sure he's going to lose tons again. He was really hungry for a treat last night. So, he ate some whole wheat Ritz crackers and a Laughing Cow cheese. It satisfied his need for a salty snack and was only 195 calories. He was so happy to be able to have it, that he didn't care that it's only about 1/10th of the serving size he normally eats.

I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend. Keep busy ladies!

 

[MouseDogMom]

Tandy - Have you tried mashed cauliflower? Put it in the food processor with some garlic and a little butter and puree it. Almost like mashed potatoes, but healthy instead of pure starch. I didn't care much for cauliflower either, but learned to like it by starting that way. Just an idea!
And the exercise band is my new enemy. It's replaced the elliptical as my most hated item in the "gym," as they call the workout room at PT. Jason had me do monster walks - put the band around my ankles and walk sideways across the room. Sounded really easy, until both hips and thighs started screaming at me. Like you said, obviously it's working, but wow, did it hurt. I have a whole list of equipment I want to buy for home now.

Maria - Welcome back! Can't wait to hear the full report. I've put off looking up your time online so I can hear the whole story from you.

2.1 miles on the TM last night. I think I'm going to sign up for my favorite 5K at the end of April. Even if I walk it, I'll do the 3.1. It's a fundraiser for fallen police officers, and last year it was so inspirational that DH and I swore it would be on our to do list from then on. And maybe, just maybe, I'll be able to run at least part of it!

Jackie

 

[Creativebeth]

Well, my doctor's appointment got cancelled due to the PA being sick. Since all my tests were done, I got to talk to the main spine doc on the phone. He looked at my MRI and assumed I have been lying around in alot of pain for 2 weeks. From the scan, he said that I was probably in alot of pain b/c I have totally blown out the disc at L5/S1. Great.......now waiting for an appointment for a steroid injection! I'll let you all know.....I am not supposed to go to the gym now..... ugh.

Beth

 

[bunnyfoo]

Happy Friday leanies!

Beth - I don't know much about spines or backs but that sounds pretty serious. Does the steroid injection help with the pain or does it help to repair the disc. Are there any arm exercises that you can do with light weights or are you not allowed any kind of exercise? Sending lots of and your way. Make sure your guys are taking care of you!

I love going to Williams Sonoma - except everything there is soooo expensive! I try to go to their outlet whenever I go to the US! I'll have to go and look up that recipe. Sounds yummy!!

Jackie - Ohhh!! I'm right there with you! I HATE monster walks!!! I can make it about 3/4 of the way across the gym floor without stopping but you know how you have to go back the opposite way to work the other leg... grr!! Check Craiglist for fitness equipment listings - sometimes people have to move and that stuff is too heavy to take with them. My PT mentioned he got a good deal on some medicine balls that were barely used.

I'll definitely come and hang out with you! Have you been to Georgetown Cupcakes My friend's house is in Dupont Circle. It's a pretty quick walk (pre-marathon) or Metro ride anywhere. I know it's early but maybe we can look for a place to have a pre-race pasta dinner.

WTG on the TM miles! I've signed up for a couple of races myself and figure I'll do run/walk intervals if it comes down to it. The 5K sounds like it's for a wonderful cause!

Tandy - I think everyone should get to job shadow a stay-at-home mom for a day to see what they do. I doubt it's as easy as everyone thinks it is. I don't mind cooking but wouldn't like the cleaning part.

I definitely would like to do something food or fitness related! I looked at a few nutrition courses which are about 1-2 years for a certificate but it's not the same thing as being a dietician. To be a dietician, I'd have to go back to school for an undergrad degree. I'm still not 100% sure of the difference between the two - I wonder if it's like the difference between a psychologist and a psychotherapist.

Your boot camp sounds killer! You are going to have some wonderful results at the end of it!! How many more sessions do you have? Like I was telling Jackie, I'm not a fan of the exercise band either. Oh and guys never like it when you can do more than them in the gym Remember when I was working out with Darryl last year?

Maria - Welcome back! I can't wait to hear your trip and race report!

Debra - After Liz showed me the King Cake picture on FB, I had to go and look up a recipe. I may give it a try in the summer. It sure does look yummy (and colourful). I'm glad that DOOD decided to freeze for the time being. Is he looking to lose weight as well? Hope you have a great trip and if you're reading this at Disney - step away from the lattes and sugar!! Just kidding! It's a vacation...

Kim/Jeanne/Cindy -

AFM - I got to the gym last night and did 25 minutes on the bike and my crunches and the push ups. I would have liked to workout more but was meeting a friend for dinner so I was pressed for time. I used yesterday as my cheat day as I had a drink after dinner and a two squares of Lindt chocolate. If anyone is looking for low sugar dessert 85% Lindt chocolate has 4g/3 squares. The 90% has 2g but doesn't taste as good. So food wise, I'll have to be good this weekend

Got in all my water, fruits/veggies and crunches yesterday so it's looking good!

Have a great day/weekend everyone!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Morning, Lovely Lean Ones!

I keep thinking about starting this post, and then I have to do something, and then it doesn’t happen because I realize I don’t have enough time…so this time I’m typing it in Word and then I’ll paste it when I’m done. That way I can leave it if needed and come back until I finally have the entire post!

This was my first solo trip, so I had a lot to think about and process, as well as the race. It kind of merges together into a combined solo trip/race report. An inauspicious start, my flight was delayed out of Boston because we had a air conditioning problem (i.e. it didn’t work), and then we lost our place in line. At this point I wasn’t too stressed. I had just scored big getting 18 Rabbits granola bars at the airport to have for breakfast every day, so that was a win! You can’t get them in stores around here, only at the airport, so I already had a treat in place. Anyway, after going down the wrong side of the terminal, I finally found my way to Magic Express – so I could wait in a very long line. I just made it on the next bus, and I was on my way to the All Star Sports Resort. I checked in and found my room on the 3rd floor of one of the Touchdown! (football) buildings, facing the football field. Not a bad location, and it was a bright sunny 80+, much nicer than the 30s I left at home.

I went to the food court and had a turkey sandwich kids meal. My strategy was to eat kids meals for lunch, but it turned out not to be the best one. The turkey part was fine, the hamburger bun was less than thrilling. I had double grapes with it, so not too bad. And I bought a refillable mug, so I could have unlimited light Minute Maid lemonade and unsweetened tea. Then it was time to head for the Expo! Keep in mind the only big Expo I’ve ever been to before is for WDW Marathon Weekend in January. I was surprised that this Expo was a bit smaller (packet pickup and the vendors all in the same building), but there was still plenty to see! I was ecstatic to find myself in Corral D. Since they were running A-F, I figured this put me right where I should be. Another WISHer online had said Track Shack (who runs the race) had D at 2:51-2:59, which was definitely my goal range.

I didn’t find anything I needed with the various vendors, but I did stop at the Disney store. I bought 2 bondibands, a singlet and a long-sleeved shirt. They had a great variety of merchandise, and I noticed right away they had more in larger (i.e. not just XS, S and M) sizes.

After making my purchases I headed back to the resort, and my luggage had arrived! I unpacked, and did a little walk around the resort. I liked the big sports icons, and I noticed teenage cheerleaders and football players strolling around. Soon my buddy Corinna arrived, and we headed over to the Wave at the Contemporary for dinner. It was great to catch up with her, and I tried really hard to make good choices for dinner. I had a buffalo mozzarella flatbread (ok, but not really yummy), and a bowl of butternut squash soup (delicious!). And that was it. I was comfortable, and didn’t mind skipping dessert. I made it a relatively early night, and slept ok. The bed was not particularly comfortable, and I was up at 7. Which turned out to be a good thing, since the cheerleaders started practicing outside my door at 8…I took myself for a tour of the other All Star Resorts. I really liked the giant icons at All Star Movies. I don’t think I could stay at All Star Music, because if I got stuck in the Country Fair section I might do someone bodily harm if I had to listen to that music all day. Yep, there is music playing from each of the buildings reflecting their design. After my tour, I hopped a bus to DTD. I had to stop in at the Christmas store, but nothing new since Jan. I went into Once Upon a Toy, and bought a “Goofy as Chewbacca” for my son. I was starting to get hungry, so I headed over to Fresh A Peel (where Mickey D’s used to be). I had a citrus grilled chicken salad that was absolutely delicious! I asked for very light dressing, and found the meal to be perfect and filling. After a swing through the World of Disney, quick stop in Ghirardelli for espresso beans for dh, and quick look at Tren-D, I headed back to my resort.

I got changed and ready for the WISH Meet. I was really looking forward to this, I had several ladies from the BL I had never met in person, and I kind of felt like Corinna and I encouraged them to do this race, so I wanted to make sure I met them! The Meet was lovely, also got to catch up with O’hana cousins JenB and Kathy and meet O’hana and BL buddy Rose (and Mike!), all in all a fantastic time. So, after the Meet Corinna and JenB and I went to the Swan or Dolphin (I think Dolphin, but honestly, I’m not sure which one I was in…) and ate at a Buffeteria. I was able to get just a slab of lasagna, and then we had soft serve ice cream. By the time I made it back to my room it was about 9. I quickly set out my race stuff, put my D-tag on, and I was ready for sleep. Well, sort of. Remember this past summer when I had to stop running because I had too much bacteria on my eyes? I was having a relapse, and it wasn’t pretty. I went to bed not sure if I would be able to even get my contacts in the next morning, but I was determined to run in glasses if I couldn’t. Luckily for me when Stitch called at 3am, the contacts went in ok. I dressed, grabbed my stuff, and was out the door around 3:30. What a huge line had already gathered for the buses! I’d never seen anything like it in January, but then again I’ve never left from a Value before. I opted to leave behind my throwaway jacket, just taking my Mylar blanket from January. I had no problem getting into a port-a-pottie right away, but I never found the WISH folks. I went down to my corral and settled near the front. The wait didn’t seem too bad, and we were off!

I felt good at the start, which is a great sign. Once again I managed not to see the clock when I crossed the start, so I wouldn’t really know how I was doing until I hit Mile 2. I should also say that while there were a great many ladies in costumes (and some fellas), there were also plenty of runners like me, in regular, non-sparkly attire. I seemed to be hitting splits around 12minutes at Miles 2-4, so I felt pretty good about things. Made it through the toll at MK, so on a roll! Approaching the Contemporary the sun came up, which was not quite so good. This was going to be a record high day in Orlando, and it started early…still feeling pretty good, but I could feel myself slowing a bit. Lovely run through MK as usual, and then to the narrows and the long stretch of pavement and sun. By the time I hit Mile 10, I knew it wasn’t going to end pretty. I just kept going as fast as I could. I think my last 2 miles probably took 15 minutes each, but I knew that with my great start, I could still have a PR, so I kept pushing. I crossed the finish line in 2:52, a full 4 minutes faster than January! I was so pleased – and I do think if the sun hadn’t been so incredibly hot, I might have been even faster!

After a 20 minute massage, I found the other WISHers at the T-Z tent. I was a little stunned to see one of my BL buddies there (this was her first race, and she had been worrying about the time), but unfortunately she had been swept at Mile 8. She was in very good spirits, and I was so proud of her. She lost 49 lbs to get to the Princess, but she is still in the middle of her weight loss journey and from a cooler climate and I think the heat did her in. We had some group photos, and then back to the hotel. I was quite surprised to find I actually felt pretty good, like I didn’t need a long nap. I took a shower and had a little rest, then met up with Corinna and we went to Epcot. After splitting a veggie wrap at Sunshine Seasons, we did a KimPossible mission in France, and listened to the Voices of Liberty in America. We had a delightful peach tea schnapps slush in China, and headed for the buses to make our way to AKL. We met Rose and Mike for dinner at Boma, and I was very restrained. Then we all went to JellyRolls, where we met JenB. I had never been there before, but I’m already planning to go back! The dueling request pianos were so much fun! I didn’t ask for a song, but I will the next time I go. I was just so tired, but we were dancing, we did a conga line to “Copacabana” – it was a great time had by all!

I got back to my room and went to bed at Midnight. I was up for 21 hours Sunday…and I think I’m now just starting to feel normal. Nevertheless, I popped up at 7am Monday and met Corinna for breakfast. Then we parted ways so she could pack and catch her flight. I went to the Animal Kingdom, just making it in before EMH ended. This turned out great, it allowed me to get on the safari before the hordes hit. After the safari I did the rainforest trek, then I meandered to Kali River Rapids, and did it for the first time. Meh. Then I grabbed a vanilla rooibos tea, and warmed up. Just as I was finishing my tea, it was time for Finding Nemo. I’d never seen the musical either, so I took a seat. It was cute, I thought it was very well done. Then I went to ride Dinosaur, and had a grilled barbecue chicken salad at Flaming Tree Barbecue, which was yummy. Then I took a turn around the Tree of Life, I’d never been on the back side before. I decided I was going to try to do something new at every Park this trip, and so far I’d succeeded in AK and Epcot – I’d never done a KimPossible Mission, either. I came back to the hotel and had a quick rest, then it was off to the MK for the evening.

I had a list of a few things to accomplish, since some upgrades had been made since I was last at the MK. But I decided to start it off my doing something I hadn’t done since ds was 4, the train ride. It was pleasant, and over before too long. Then I grabbed a fast pass for Space after riding the People Mover, and rode It’s a Small World and Mickey’s Philharmagic. I really wanted to catch the Main Street Electrical Parade since I’d never seen it before, so I had a seat close to the front of the sidewalk and enjoyed it. Then I rode Pirates and the Jungle Cruise (never ridden after dark before), and Big Thunder Mountain during Wishes, which was pretty cool. I also did the revamped Haunted Mansion. I was just so tired, I couldn’t make it to the Hall of Presidents. I decided to adapt my plans for the next day to come back to just do that.

I awoke early again Tuesday so I could get to Epcot for EMH. It was pouring and nasty, but I had a poncho and I was determined to enjoy my day. I was planning 3 Parks today, so I had to be efficient. I rode Soarin’ and got a fastpass for later, then it was off to Mission Space – orange side, of course! I was a little skeptical because of the rain (still raining and pouring in spurts), but I got in line for Test Track. I did eventually ride, but we were stuck on the course inside for awhile, while they waited for the pouring to die down. Then back to Soarin’. Still raining, so I did Living with the Land. Then it was clearing up, and World Showcase had opened. I headed for Norway and did the Maelstrom. I’ve never stayed for the movie after before – turns out that was a good choice. Then on to Germany, where I was going to buy a caramel apple – but when it came right down to it, I looked at them and I just didn’t want one – it just looked like too much for me. So, I went to the American Adventure and watched it for the first time. Ok, one inaccuracy I have to point out – John Adams never said Thomas Jefferson was a better writer than he was. He actually thought the opposite. In any case, then I was starving, having aborted the caramel apple lunch plan. I went to France and selected a turkey and brie on French bread. I was standing in line to pay when guess who found me? Mike and Rose! It was great to run into them again, and I was so glad I had passed on the chocolate mousse! It looked good, but like too much. This was my usual response with the desserts this week, so I didn’t end up really eating them, just a half a carrot cake cookie. Anyway, tummy filled I wandered to England to go through the garden in back (another thing I never did), then it was off to DHS.

I was going for one reason, to see Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage, which I had never seen. I got there 10 minutes after the start, so I decided to hang around for the next show. I did the Great Movie Ride, and Prince Caspian (for the first and only time, trust me), and then I was able to get in line for the show. It worked it’s magic on me, I just love Belle…Anyway, I didn’t see any other reason to hang around the Studios, so I took the bus to the TTC, and then the monorail to MK.

My first stop at MK was Columbia Harbor House, which was closed…so I ended up eating at Starlight Ray’s. Here is where I totally fell off the wagon. I had chicken breast nuggets and fries. This was my only clear indulgence of the trip, so I consider that massive progress. After being sated, I headed off for the Hall of Presidents. I liked the update and enjoyed the show. Then one last ride on the PeopleMover, and I left the MK for the resort. I got back and packed while I watched the rest of BL, and went to bed. I had to drop my luggage before 7 and catch the ME at 7:05, so I wanted to be up early.

I took some last photos of the resort, and headed out for the airport. My flight was uneventful, other than JetBlue moving to a terminal where they don’t have McDonald’s (so no planned oatmeal for breakfast – but I did find another 18 Rabbits bar!). It was great to be home, but I was so tired, I couldn’t really have a coherent thought, and I had to go to work the next day.

Since then I’ve been catching up on sleep, I ran 2M Thurs., 3M Fri., and 4M yesterday, and I’m taking today off. Yesterday we went to a AAA travel show to book a cruise as a gift for my dad’s 75th birthday, and to get information on a drive vacation to Canada.

So, for the big result – I weighed in at WW yesterday, and I was down 2.4! I could not believe it! I am so pleased to have finally lost weight after a WDW vacation! This brings me to a total of 14.6 lbs in 6 weeks, which feels awesome.

I have truly written a book here, and now I have to go to church. Hope everyone is doing great, I promise to have replies soon!

Maria

 

[rubato]

Maria: Your race report brought tears to my eyes. I am sooooo proud of you. What an amazing experience! And, you did so good with your eating! Wow! Your vacation sounded really, truly wonderful. I can't even imagine going to MK just to ride 2 rides. Not with my family. Again, I am just so proud of what you did!

Vicky: Great job on the workouts. And, you just have so much self control when it comes to eating. It's no wonder you're so small. I have 3 more bootcamps and am thinking about signing up for another round. It's only $24 for 6 sessions, and is the same price as zumba. I figure if I do zumba once a week and bootcamp once a week, I'm getting a good mix of workouts.

Beth: Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that news! What can be done for a blown disc? Are we talking surgery here? Yes, I know, you haven't seen the doc yet. I just hope there's some relief that's not so intrusive. As far as working out, I know how bad it sucks to be told to stop working out or run, but you have to heal. Maybe, when you do finally get to see the doc, they can give you a list of things you can do.

Jackie: I like all your races that you have scheduled. Sounds like a fun year for you. MCM just sounds great. I'm so glad you and Vicky are getting to do that. Yes, the stupid band stinks! I didn't know that the exercise had a name, now I do! I'm curious to see what she's got up her sleeve for this week.


AFM: Frank and I broke down a little last night and ordered a pizza. We did pretty well and only went over our allotted calories by 500 each. I'll take it. It's important to be realistic about your life when trying to lose weight. I still managed to lose a tiny bit overnight, so it worked out.

I got a 6 mile run in yesterday. I always forget how good those slightly longer runs feel. Unless I'm training, I keep putting them off. Well, I had energy to spare and debated doing 8, but ran out of time. I think I'll do 8 next weekend. Harrison and I are definitely in for the race at the end of April. We're going to find out today if he wants to do the 5k or the 10k. I think he could handle the 10k if we run/walk, so I kind of hope he says yes to that one.

 

[bunnyfoo]

Happy Monday leanies! Hope everyone had a great weekend!

Tandy - I don't know if it's self control so much as just not having anything in the house that I can snack on But thanks for the awesome compliment! You made my day

That's an awesome price for your bootcamp classes! Stuff in the city is a lot more expensive - we pay on average about $20/class whether it's yoga, pole dancing, MMA, spinning, Zumba etc. The only time we get breaks on class prices is when they're offered through group buy sites.

I don't think a pizza is so bad and like you said it's all about being realistic. It's hard to be 100% perfect all the time. Besides, I've read that it's okay to go off diet every so often because it keeps your metabolism guessing.

WTG on your 6 miler! I also tend to put them off unless I have a race I'm training for as well

Maria - Fantastic RR! Congrats on your PR!! I heard about the hot weather - what a difference a month makes! Too bad there couldn't have been a balance in between the weather for January and the Princess.

I'm so glad you had a great solo trip! And you lost weight on top of it all!! WTG! How did you like All Stars Sports? Would you stay there again? I've heard stories about the cheer teams - I wouldn't have been happy. How did your guys do while you were gone?

AFM - The eating went pretty well this weekend! I did go out for brunch with some friends but managed to stick to my low/no sugar. I had an egg white scramble with ham and spinach, whole wheat toast and potatoes. I didn't strike potatoes from my diet because I just don't eat them often enough. No juice or sugary pancakes though

I also ran on Saturday for a bit. Managed 4:1 intervals for about 25 minutes. Like Tandy, I was also thinking - how did I manage to run a marathon in January But I know I will get my mileage and endurance back!

Just wanted to pick your brains for some ideas -- what are some of the cooler things you've seen done at races? At Disney, they have the high school bands and performers on trampolines... for the Scotiabank marathon in Toronto, they have neighbourhood cheer squads. I'm trying to give my friend some ideas because she's involved organizing a race. And potentially I hope to see if she can help with my job search... So if you have any ideas, send them my way

Have a great day everyone!

 

[rubato]

Hi ladies. I am, apparently, just in a posting mood. Please excuse my over posting!

Vicky: Sorry, no ideas for the race. I have only done Disney and one little dinky half here that had nothing. I think, as far as Disney, the most imspirational thing for me was the gospel choir.
Great job eating this weekend! The omelette sounds really good. And, I'm so glad you are running. Did I tell you that yet? Keep up the good work!

AFM: It's official. Harrison is registered for his first race. We are running the Run For Mercy 10k here in Shawnee on April 30th. He's a little nervous, but I have assured him that I have no expectations except to finish. We are going to start 4/1 intervals even though he says he just wants to run. I finally talked him into the intervals by explaining that I could NEVER have finished that marathon without Vicky's intervals. NEVER! (Thanks again Vicky.) They are having a pancake breakfast afterward, and his school running club will be running the 5k, so he'll be able to hang out with his friends and enjoy his bragging rights. He is, afterall, doing double what they are, right?

I got a 3 mile run in today. I ran as fast as I could, and feel as if I ran a half. Eating is going great. My family's weigh in is on Mondays and I won this week. Frank lost a few pounds and Harrison gained half a pound (poor guy). I have zumba tonight. The instructors have been taking a belly dancing class, and have warned me there will be new choreography. I'm kind of excited to try belly dancing again. The last time I took a class, my knee was messed up from my bike wreck and, since I couldn't bend it, I couldn't do the moves very well. I also have choreographed a new routine and may, if I get brave, do it in front of the class. We'll see. Frank is trying to download the song without the video and is having a hard time, so I maywait a few weeks.

I hope everyone has a wonderful day!!!!

 

[Hockeychic]

Sorry just checking in quick, need to hit the TM before getting ready for work. I was up 1.2pds. I know why so not going to excuses...Will work really hard this week, starting now!!!! Off to the TM!

Good luck to you all

 

[Cindylou]

Hi LMs. Just a quick post before I go to work. Kim, I am with you on the weight gain this week. Not the way I wanted to start off the challenge. I was away this weekend scrapbooking and the food they provided was delicious and high calorie. I started out the weekend taking small portions, but my resolve left me by Sunday and I was chowing on all the desserts. Back to it this week. I scored 6 challenge pts since I did the crunches, fruits and veggies, dairy, exercise, new food and new recipe. I'll have to post the recipe for the Asian vegetable soup because it was very good and just 1 WW pt+.

Have a great day everyone.
Cindy

 

[rubato]

Happy Weigh In Day ladies! And, it's fitting that it's fat Tuesday!!!

I am down 1.8 pounds. Any loss is a good loss!
I accumulated 8 points. I was unable to get a new recipe in, but I did everything else. And, that 10th point is only awarded to this week's winner.

So, check in everyone.
And, this week's exercise challenge will be squats. We will have different levels. Beth, are you able to do wall squats? I was trying to figure out what your back could handle, and thought you might be able to do those. If you can, hold it for as long as possible, and that'll count for your squats. Don't want to hurt you. For the rest of you, I would like a minimum of 25 squats for each of the 4 days. But, if you're up for more of a challenge, I would like 20 squat thrusts. Here's the description:

Squat-Thrusts
Stand with feet together. Squat down and place your hands on the floor next to your feet. In an explosive movement, jump feet backwards into a push-up position, jump feet back between hands and stand up.

Have a great day ladies!

I must edit: I just did the squat thrusts and they are hard. I'm changing it to 15 of those.

 

[MouseDogMom]

Happy Fat Tuesday!

I'm feeling very happy. 6 points, and down 2.4 pounds.

I surrender the exercise point for next week. I will NOT do squats. I still blame the squats from last year's challenge for starting all the problems with my hip last summer! And at PT last night, Jason had me squat down to pick up a 10-lb weight - I was supposed to do 5, but after 3 he made me quit because my right knee was cracking so bad he was afraid I was going to hurt something. I haven't been able to walk without pain since. So, no squats in Jackie's world any more. The body just won't do them. (Can't do planks either, since apparently my ankles have the same reaction!) I may try the wall squats and see how they do...

I did, however, "graduate" from PT last night. They even hummed "Pomp and Circumstance" as I signed my paperwork. I got a t-shirt, along with resistance bands to take home with me and new exercises to do at home. It was really sad to leave!

Vicky - I'm trying to think about what I've seen during races. It's amazing how they all run together! Usually it's the more unusual food at the end that I remember, like the chili at Victory Junction, or the cookies at the Indy Mini. At Indy, all the water stops were designed to look like pit stops in keeping with the race theme. That was cool. It's more the unplanned things, like the Krispy Kreme donuts in Richmond that make races memorable.
Have not been to Georgetown Cupcakes - thought about it last year after hearing you talk about it, so we'll have to make a trip together this time! We're definitely at the Hyatt Arlington, which is only a couple of blocks from the finish area. I'll start thinking about pre-race dinners. Last year we ended up skipping the BOT meet - they were going to Maggiano's and it was just too much food for us. We had pizza at a little place close to our hotel instead.

Maria - What a WONDERFUL race/trip report. I absolutely felt like I was there with you. I whimpered a little when Columbia Harbour House was closed. It's absolutely my favorite counter service in the entire resort. We went one Sunday night after the marathon, and DH and DD were meeting me there, and they kept the place open waiting for them to arrive. We were the last customers served that night. I'd waited all day, and would have died if we'd missed it! Congratulations on your PR, again! The heat does make such a difference, but good for you for holding on and beating your time despite the temps.

Tandy - Hooray for Harrison! I hope he really enjoys his first race. My running buddy just ran her first 10K - she'd never run anything shorter than a half. I'm trying to talk her into doing the 5K with me next month. (It's the same day as your 10K) I'm actually leaning toward 1/1 intervals, at least until I build back up. I may even do MCM that way - Jeff Galloway is doing his marathons either 1/1 or :30/:30 and he swears by it now. I figure coming off an injury like mine, it might be smart.

Work... suppose they ARE paying me to be here. I finally finished the book I had hidden (Three Cups of Tea - what a slow read, but it was worth it in the end), and the one I was reading at home - Stephenie Meyer's The Host - I'm not normally a scifi fan, but I really enjoyed that after a slow start. So now I have to do the stuff I'm being paid to do.

Jackie

 

[rubato]

Jackie: Congratulations on your graduation! You will do great doing the exercises at home. I am the opposite of you. Whenever I leave pt, I am thrilled.

If you can't do the wall squats, come up with something else that you want as your exercise challenge.

Oh, and did you include your point for weight loss in your points? I did, so just want to make sure I'm keeping track properly.

 

[MouseDogMom]

Ooohh! No, I didn't. But let me figure this again, just to be sure. And tell me if I should count the chicken pot pit as a new recipe or not.

Water = 1
Exercise = 1
Dairy = 1
Crunches = 1
Temptation = 1
Missed the new food and the fruit/veggies.

So if I count the pot pie, it's 6. If I don't, it's 5. But then, I get to add the 1 for weight loss, so it's either 6 or 7. I don't care! The pot pie isn't healthy, but it does have veggies, and it's easy.

Also, do we keep the same temptation for the entire challenge, or does it change from week to week?

You'd think simple addition wouldn't be so difficult...

Jackie

 

[rubato]

Ooohh! No, I didn't. But let me figure this again, just to be sure. And tell me if I should count the chicken pot pit as a new recipe or not.

Water = 1
Exercise = 1
Dairy = 1
Crunches = 1
Temptation = 1
Missed the new food and the fruit/veggies.

So if I count the pot pie, it's 6. If I don't, it's 5. But then, I get to add the 1 for weight loss, so it's either 6 or 7. I don't care! The pot pie isn't healthy, but it does have veggies, and it's easy.

Also, do we keep the same temptation for the entire challenge, or does it change from week to week?

You'd think simple addition wouldn't be so difficult...

Jackie

Nope, you get 7!!!!!! No one said the new recipe had to be healthy.

 

[rubato]

Cindy, I just realized that you posted this morning while I was writing my post. Sorry. Good job getting in the points. Sorry you didn't lose. Hopefully, you and Kim will be able to make up for it next week.

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Afternoon and Happy Fat Tuesday, Luscious Leanistas!

Jackie -- I am going to have to learn to calculate, too, so don't feel bad! Excellent loss, and congratulations on your "graduation"! Definitely progress, and I know you are happy to say "Goodbye to PT"! I was totally disappointed CHH was closed. I've never eaten there, and it was my plan to try it. Maybe next time...

Tandy -- Squat thrusts are beyond me, but I will do the squats. My starting weight is 190.0. I think it is fantastic Harrison is registered for his first race! Ben went to a Track info session yesterday afternoon, but decided to pass since it's every afternoon after school, and that means he would have to drop Improv. Plus, they have to run under a 7 minute mile, and he's not sure he can. He's never tried, but I bet could I envy you doing a race with your son, I think that's fabulous!

Cindy -- I'm glad you had a nice, relaxing weekend, even if it didn't go exactly as planned foodwise. It sounds like you were able to do a creative activity and have a great accomplishment, and that is always good.

Vicky -- The fellas had a great time without me, but Ben wishes he could have come. I would stay at All Star Sports again, but I think I would make Movies my first choice. They really are identical, but I like the giant icons better, and there aren't obvious places for the cheerleaders to practice I wouldn't hesitate to stay in a Value if I were solo or with one other person. Three people would be too crowded. If my family came, we would need at least a Mod. Plus, with more people I would want a fridge and dh needs a coffeemaker, so Mod would be the "family speed". I haven't done many races, so I don't really have ideas to contribute. I do think it is always fun to have your name on your bib so people can cheer for you individually, and I liked the men in spandex on the trampoline at the Princess this year

Kim -- You have the right attitude. It is a new week, and there's no reason why it can't be a stellar one!

Beth -- omgoodness, you poor thing I'm not really sure what all that means, but I hope the steroid is helpful and you are feeling better.

Jeanne -- Ok, I know this is from awhile ago, but now it's bugging me -- what did your daughter win the Emmy for? Enquiring minds! I keep hearing one of the abc soaps is about to be cancelled. I hope not, that would be a shame.

Debra -- Hope you had/are having a blast in WDW! Did you try Fresh A Peel at DTD? I thought they had good Vegan options Are you watching the Being Human on SyFy? I don't think it's as good as the BBCAmerica version, but I'll give it a chance. SGU came back last night for the last 10 episodes. I've got it in that Tivo pile. In the best news I've heard all day, Torchwood comes back July 1 on Starz (which we don't get, but that means it will be on Netflix). I'm not sure what the premiere date is for Dr. Who, but I'll be watching!

I ran 3M yesterday morning, and today was supposed to be yoga day (just cancelled ). I did get an hour of office laps in this morning. On a very sad note, yoga is ending at work at the end of April, so I will have to modify my Tuesdays, maybe this is an opportunity to modify my week so it fits just a little better...

I've decided to give up crunchy for Lent. That means popchips, pringles and popcorn -- with the exception of Sundays, because "every Sunday is like a little Easter" I think this will be good for me. I'm already planning to hoard my SyFy tivo for Sundays, so I can enjoy with popcorn I was seriously considering giving up chocolate, but my dh was scared We also give up meat on Fridays, so that's another easy low point day just waiting to happen. We are skipping our traditional pancakes for dinner tonight (Fat Tuesday), and instead having turkey burgers. I will enjoy my last Popchips for awhile with it

I think we're going to register for the Providence Rock n' Roll Half. We've always wanted to do a Rock n' Roll, and it's hard to get closer than Providence for us. It's in August, so I will have a definite weight loss goal to shoot for to improve my time. It's going to be hot, but maybe I'll run well if it's relatively early in the day?

I am poised to be in another "decade", but I'm having trouble getting myself focused to get there. I spent all yesterday in a training in a room with no windows and little air, and it was rough. I did eat well even though I had to eat out for lunch. I had a bowl of chicken soup (broth-based) for lunch, followed by grapes and a small square of chocolate they provided at the soup store. I refused the free bagel that came with the soup, so that was big for me!

Anyway, I have to get focused because ds and I are travelling in the middle of April to my dad's 75th birthday party. I want to be as small as possible, because I'm going to feel awkward and barely know anyone. The majority of the guests will be my dad's new family (he remarried in 2006 after my mom passed in 2002), and I don't know these people at all since I live 1,500 miles away...My three stepsisters all have grandchildren, I really don't have anything in common with them at all. Add my shyness around strangers and insecurity in the mix, and whatever I can do to increase my confidence, I need to make happen. On the bright side, I'm dropping ds off for a few days since he'll be on April vacation. I'm literally staying about 24 hours since I want to get back before dh runs the Boston Marathon. All I have to do is smile for a few hours, and then I can get back to my normal life. There won't even be time to go crazy off course with the food, since I think I'll be eating a total of three meals there. I'll be sure I have a really good book to read on the way back on the plane, so I can relax.

That's my plan for now...hope everyone is having a good week, back in the normal again...

Maria

 

[jeanneg]

Checking to post my progress.

I have a question about the point system: It's an all-or-nothing proposition, right? I missed exactly one day of water, veggies and double dairy, so I don't get any of those those points at all? (Teacher, teacher, will there be partial credit?)

If that's the case, I only earned 5 points because I also missed the new food, but I am not very adventurous, so that was no surprise.

The good news is I lost 3.8 pounds bringing me down to 207.2 I am seriously hoping for a return to One-derland before the month is over. I can thank my little Mii for my success.....I'll do anything to make her happy. (Yes, I need to get a life!)

A word about the squats.....not sure I'll be able to do them as I have a bad knee and have not done anything of the sort in years. I just checked the internet for proper squat technique and promise to give it the old college try.
In any event, I'll continue with my 200 daily crunches even if they don't count.

Maria: WTG on your fantastic trip report and fabulous PR!!!!! You just keep getting better and better. Anyone who can return from a WDW vacation and post a weight loss is a hero in my book. And before I forget, my daughter won the Emmy for Outstanding Achievement in Main Title and Graphic Design for a cooking show named Avec Eric which appears on PBS. It was a technical arts Emmy so she wasn't awarded it during the TV presentation with all the actors, but it is identical to theirs in every way. She did the opening credits and graphics for season one, alot of which consisted of her own hand-lettering. She has since left the company, but they continued the concept in subsequent seasons. The funny thing is that, as parents, we recognize right away it's not her handwriting! (I think I asked this before, but do you have Facebook?)

Jackie: congrats on your PT graduation!

Tandy: so excited that your son is interested in running. Many WISHers have children that participate in the shorter events and it's a great way for families to share a common interest. Then, when they get older you can all do the events together which is always a blast!

Cindy/Kim: A new week begins today, so hopefully the pounds will begin to melt away.

Beth: hope the steroid injection gives you some much needed relief.

Vicky: the coolest thing I ever did during a race was the vow renewal in Vegas. About half a dozen couples actually got married and they had to fill out all sorts of official paperwork, but the 30 or so couples that renewed just applied and showed up. We were all assigned to a special corral (just after the really fast runners) along with the Elvis impersonators, who were our witnesses. What time of year is your friend's race? Themes involving some sort of dress-up are always fun.

Deb: your WDW trip sounds like alot of fun. I love reading all your travel posts.

AFM: still trying to decide what to give up for Lent....definitely candy and French fries! (including Sundays, unlike Maria ) I once tried to give up booze and it was OK except for social situations where I really felt envious of everyone else that was imbibing. I would have applied the Sunday rule except that most of the occasions were on Saturday and I had to stretch the parameters by rationalizing that is was definitely Sunday SOMEWHERE in the world and therefore OK. Kinda defeated the whole purpose....

That's it, folks....off and running.

Jeanne

 

[Creativebeth]

First of all.....I wrote a post on Sunday (nice and long) but my internet went belly up around the same time, so it never posted (of course)

Internet still down, but Greg was home to take me in for my epidural so I am using his wireless card.

My weight this AM was 185.0 which is a loss of 2.4 for this week. I don't know why, but I am taking it! I hope I can keep it for Thursday's WW weigh in.

Points (I think) is 6:
temptation
new recipe
new food (Greek yogurt)
water
fruits/veggies
exercise (I got 4 hours in last week before the plug was pulled)
(what am I missing here....I am sure something)

I didn't really get a chance to see how everyone is doing, since I will have to turn the computer over!

Beth