LAWL Losers & Friends - April '05

[vibrantecho]

:flow1: Here we go, all ready for tomorrow! :flow1:

[synn1977]

Ok....ladies you were asking about the Goddess workout set, no, they are not yoga booty ballet...they are straight up bellydancing. I have not gotten them in yet, but as I stated, I am looking forward to it.
I will certainly let everyone know how it goes once they are here!
Chugging away at the water already, but have not eaten breakfast yet. I will be OP today just as I have been all week! Woot!

[SyracuseNY]

Good Morning everyone.

Welcome Mandy: In your post, you said you've lost 75 lbs. Are you at your goal weight? I'm almost there and plan on being at my goal for my BD at the end of the month. I have been going between 6-9 lbs from my goal since mid-December. Got any hints or tricks to make my mind and body realize that I CAN reach my goal?

Sy

[auditgirl]

Hello ladies,

It’s been a while since I’ve checked in…had a great Easter, but of course ate way too much and have been working myself pretty hard this week to get back to pre-Easter weight…should be there by this afternoon’s WI. I’m about 20lbs from goal, but have been struggling since Christmas…kind of frustrating…but I’m so close to the 170s, I just know I’ll be there by Monday! My mom is coming to visit May 19 and I want to be 170 or even in the 160s by then.

Mandy-Welcome and you give me hope!!! It looks like your starting weight is about the same as mine and your goal also similar (actually a little less)…yours is the goal I really wanted (around 150), but I thought 74lbs and 160 was unrealistic enough when I first signed up. Do you mind me asking how tall you are and how many weeks have you been on plan? Also, are you exercising? Feel free to tell me I’m too nosey, but I really enjoy hearing other’s success stories :-)

Star-I’m glad someone nice is getting your house, I’m kind of sentimental about that kind of thing. I drove our old house in GA when I was down there for work and it made me sad to see how the new owners had let the place go. Also, I’ve been trying to fit tanning into my schedule, I went on a shopping spree and bought all new Capri pants, but need some color on my legs. I need to get started now, so I can go nice and slow, but still have color when my mom and her pals come to visit. It’s a total girl weekend, we go to the Longaberger Homestead, eat, drink cocktails, stay up late talking, and shop, shop, shop!!!! I can hardly wait!!!!

Julie-Your trip sounds amazing….I can hardly wait to do some traveling. Our son just turned 16, so in a few years we’ll have some freedom to do a bit of traveling. My DS schedule is so full and most of trips are related to his activities or visiting our parents.

Sy- I have faith you’ll meet your birthday goal…I’m pulling for you!

Keri- Great job in getting back on track and all the success you are having now that you are!

Carmen-I have never had a pedicure, also thought I had fat kind of ugly Fred Flintstone feet (nice self-talk, huh…guess I need to revisit that chapter in Thin for Life :-) but lately I’m feeling pretty good about me (feet and all), so I think I’ll try a pedicure this spring and get myself new sandals too!

Hi to Fiona and Beverly and anyone else I might have missed. I’ll post again later today.

Skinny vibes to all of you,
Jen

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies

Happy April 1st.

Should we set some April goals? Mine are:
- to continue with the exercise at least 5x a week, and aim for 6x a week. . .
- to try to break this 190 marker (although I know that part of that is this medication I'm on - Saturday is my last day, thank goodness)
- recognize NON-SCALE progress (clothes fitting better, etc.)
- try to do something good for myself - like the pedicure!

Mandy, glad to have you join us, chickie! We've had some good success stories on this thread, and I (like Jen) want to know how you've kept going! It seems like there's a 30 pound slowdown - and once we can get past that, things will start to click again. I'm also interested that you've substitued other food for the lites - I'm also suffering from lite burnout. I didn't buy the suppliments, but did get the lites in bulk.

Keri - can't wait to hear about the goddess package.

Jen - we must have been separated at birth - I also have Fred Flinstone feet - (great analogy)- I blame it on the Russian Peasant blood. About the traveling - it's something that I wanted to do for a long time, and finally realized that if I didn't do it on my own, I'd be 70 and not gone anywhere. Your girls weekend sounds terrific! I love that kind of stuff.

Beverly - it is so much easier for men to lose weight than women. It is simply not fair. I think you should ask you husband to throw out his own leftovers. How much should one woman have to bear? BTW, are you doing any weight training? And do you rotate through your cardio tapes?

I'm betting that Star won't be on today since she's moving. . .

Hugs to all,
Julie

[Star]

:coffee:

Fiona - Thanks for starting the new April thread and Thank you for adding LOSERS in the mix. I think it says it all ;) Ofcourse I would be "friends"
Also, good to know about the MK suncreen, I'll have to check that out!
BTW, I have only tanned twice in the Matrix bed and I already have color without the burn. I should have good color by the trip to CA.

Mandy - Welcome! I read your bio and that is some story you have there. We are the same height and same deal with not gaining until after kids, etc. However, you are doing better than me as far as being close to goal. I think I'm in a temporary burnout (from LAWL) phase. :( Maybe you can share some of your success tips here.

Speaking of LAWL I am thinking of going back to the center of doom :devil: But am wondering if I should go prior to the 14th (CA trip) or just wait until I get back :?: Opinions please. I did go ahead and reinstate my ticker...

Jen - I was wondering where you were - missed ya! Your girls weekend sounds wonderful! Aren't capri's the best thing since sliced bread? They pretty much cover all the problem areas for me - I have them in all the basic colors, but your right - you need just alittle color :o

Tonight is crunch night for us, as the movers will be there bright and early in the morning. I think we are in pretty good shape. I think DH's only real concern with the movers is that they take all the heavy stuff. Our apartment is only like 15 minutes from our house. Also we don't have to be out of the house until May 5th if need be, but we should probably be completely out by next weekend. DH is still doing some work on the 57 Chevy which is in the pole barn on a rotary machine :dizzy: (It's a guy thing).

Hi to all you other chicks - Julie - we posted at the same time, I'll go ready yours and respond later... ;)

[Mitchypoo]

Hope nobody minds but i put a link on the last thread so people can join us here.

Going to WI today, no matter what. Not sure what to expect. Have to work today on water and staying POP. Good so far...

[vibrantecho]

Morning everyone - just wanted to pop in and say, don't expect to see much of me today! :dizzy: I'm at work, surrounded by about six inches of paper that all needs to be typed or stuffed or updated, and I'm taking an hour off this morning to go do DD's "art show" at preschool. I'll try to read while I'm stuffing envelopes, though. Catch ya later!

Fiona

[Chklithunder]

Good Morning Everyone.

Welcome to Mandy. You really are an inspiration here. I'm sure you have a lot of pointers and experience under your belt that could be a lot of help to a "LA newbie" like myself.

Jen - don't worry about your feet! If you have Fred Flinstone feet then I'd say mine are probably like Captain Caveman's. Just long, wide and ugly. I'm 5'4" and my shoe size is an 11 (down from an 11w). I always go barefoot and I hate shoe shopping, so I just figure my feet may as well look their best. Plus I found that DH is more willing to rub them when they look good. :lol:

Keri - reading about your comeback this week is just the inspiration I am needing right about now. I have been OFF plan for about a week now, since Good Friday, starting with little indiscrepancies and now they are getting bigger and bigger. I am afraid to go WI and my eating has gotten steadily worse, culminating in a cheese muffin this AM. I will resolve to CUT IT OUT, go get my water, and turn this behavior around...immediately. You all, wish me luck. PLEASE.

I'm off to a meeting for now, busy morning for a Friday around here.

[Star]

hey - Maybe we should of called this thread
"LAWL Losers, Friends & Cheaters" lol
You know where I would fit in (so I can make the funny)

[MetalChic]

Hey Chickies.....

Welcome Mandy!

It seems that we are in the same boat.... I am 7lbs from my goal, and I have been pretty much just maintaining for the past 4 weeks. I have become a little aggravated, considering that I have been on plan. I do like the new "Free to Live" plan, but I do think it might be keeping me from my goal. I may have to start limiting certain foods as I did before. I talked with the counselor last night at the center. They were supposed to call the dietician and find out if they need to change what I am eating. I haven't heard anything yet though.....

It is the lovely TOM for me, which makes it very hard with the water weight... I may have actually lost some weight :shrug:

Even if I don't manage to loose the last 7lbs, I guess I should just admit that it is amazing to loose 83lbs (even though I want it to be 90lbs lost).

Mandy, you have done great 75lbs is wonderful! :cheer:

I guess as long as all of us loose some of the unwanted weight that we are winners!

After reading about Terri Schiavo's life and death, I think we should all think about whether loosing the weight and the rollercoasters that we put ourselves on with our weight are worth what could happen to us. I don't think any of the ladies here actually have an eating disorder, but dieting can lead to eating disorders when you continue to binge, regain, and have low self esteem (which comes with being overweight). I know that I have re-evaluated my life, and I am determined to maintain a healthy weight without binging, regaining, and continued dieting. I am definately going to keep up the healthy eating habits that I have learned through LAWL. I have never eat as healthy as I have on this plan.

Anyways, I will stop depressing everyone.....

Have a great Friday and weekend, I hope everyone reaches their goals!

Thanks!
Karen

[textjewel]

Karen - hear, hear on poor Terry Schiavo - I saw the A&E special on her last night, and I can't believe that she'd have wanted is to be in the middle of such a struggle.

One thing I've been thinking about, too - sort of in the back recesses of my mind - there is a goal past a scale goal, right? I know that I've learned to eat right 95% of the time. The weight will come off as my body decides that it's going to release it. I've learned portion control. I'm eating a variety of food, and have moved chocolate, ice cream, etc., to nice to have, not have to have. .

Carmen -we all need that push sometimes when we've been off plan for a few days .. .

It is a long journey to lose weight. . .

[mandyd26]

Hello all,
Ok first things first. I'm 5'7" I think I have a medium to large frame. So I figure that 149 is a pretty good goal. Of course I'm not going to complain if I get down to 145. :) Also thanks for the warm welcome. I already feel like I belong here. It's so great! so here it goes...

Sy- I'm actually about 12 pounds from my goal weight. Although I have changed that a few times throughout the process. It was 155 at first and then 140. I finally settled on a 149. So as far as the hints and tricks to realize you can reach your goal... I'm in the same boat. The main thing to know that it is all within you. What I've been doing is just trying to remember how far I've come. I've also tried to keep busy and not think about food every second of the day. I know that is easier said then done, but it is working right now. I've had a few set backs a long the way. Where I maintained for a month or so or had to lose the same 5 pounds a few different times. I guess this last 3 weeks since I've been back on the wagon I have just decided that this is it. No more messing around. The 5 minutes of satisfaction I get from eating something off plan isn't worth it. I also try to imagine myself comfortably fitting into size 8's. Anyway, I admire you for your amazing weightloss. Keep it up. You WILL reach your goal.

Audit Girl- I'm 5'7". I have been with LAWL since March 29 2004. But I took a couple of months off and tried a pirated version of ww. I was losing at such a slow pace that I went back to LAWL. So I'm technically in my 41'st week. I actually haven't been exercising. I know I need to to get some tone back to my body, but I will try something for a few days and then stop. Right now I'm doing a 20 min. denise austin pilates tape. I really like it and it helps me feel like I'm doing something good for myself.

Text Jewel- I once bought a la lite substituion list off ebay. I guess it's for people who for medical reasons can't eat the lites. Anyway, what I remember of it was you can substitute the lites with... String Cheese or 1 (or 2) eggs. There were a few other things on there, but I don't remember. :o Anyway, I've also just been buying some pria bars (protein bars). They are pretty cheap and they taste pretty good. I don't eat them every day though. I just eat them when I'm on the run. I used the lites and supplements for a good portion of my program. I'm not using them now and am losing weight at the same rate. Live and learn I guess. I guess how I've kept going is just really focusing on my goal. Sometimes it's hard. Especially when we become more comfortable with our new thinner bodies, but aren't where we want to be yet. I've also had some times where I just maintained for a while because I wasn't following my plan. It would take a little while and then I would just feel a fire within in me and I would think. OK time to hit it again. Sometimes what I do to help me if I'm having a bad day is to put on my size 20 jeans that were getting tight. Then I think... Look at where all of these good choices and days of staying on plan when I really didn't want to, got me.

Starlynn- First of all my advice would be don't go to LAWL until you get back. :)
That is neat to hear that we have a similar story. It's great to have people that can relate to you. I've been going to LAWL only 1 time a week. That seemed to help me for some reason. Maybe because I realized that I'm not accountable just to LAWL. I'm mainly accountable to myself. For some reason that has made me feel empowered (sp?) Also one thing that has kept me going is checking in with my sister in law everyday. It's good to check in with someone who really cares about you. She is maintaining right now, so that is why I'm soooo glad to have found you guys! Plus she doesn't do lawl so it's nice that we all have that in common.

Chiklithunder- I would love to give pointers and also get pointers from others. If you ever need support or advice feel free to ask. That is why it is so great to have this forum. We can all inspire and be of support to one another.

MetalChic- Hello there. 83 pounds lost! Yes that is a great accomplishment. We have to remember that. I know it's hard to sometimes. Maintaining for 4 weeks is probably pretty aggrivating, but you are just 7 pounds from your goal. So it's just taking a tad longer to come off. You know what though... it WILL come off, so just keep with it. (can you just tell me that in a few weeks when I start maintaining) :) I also like the change with the "Free to live plan" it came at just the right time for me. I was wanting to go back to lawl, but didn't know if I could stick with it. So the plan made it a little easier. Anyway, I've found that I can't do the Carb cravers plan and lose as much as I do without it. So I just try to use it as a reward. Or something to look forward to. So today I'm going to go have 1 piece of veggie pizza. Great comments about Terri Schiavo. I really hope that even after you reach your goal you will stick around. I plan to. I think we will all need the continued support to help keep this healthy lifestyle.

Ok Sorry about the HUUGGGE post. I just have a lot to say. I hope you all have a good day!

Mandy

[vibrantecho]

Hi again...still stuffing envelopes... :dizzy:

Mandy - great points across the board!

DH and I went to DD's school thing, then the two of us had a nice lunch at Applebees. They have a WW section on their menu, and their "Tango Chicken Sandwich" was awesome. They are putting up an Applebees in the little shopping center directly behind the development that we are thinking of moving to (actually, I think we've DECIDED we're moving there, assuming we can get approved for enough $$$$!) - anyway, so it's probably going to become one of our favorite places to eat out, once we move. :hungry:

Well....back to my envelopes, I guess. :p

Fiona

[SyracuseNY]

Mandy: I'm also 5'7" and our goals are very similar. A great post and glad to hear more about you.

Hi to everyone else. I'm headed to WI so hopefully my after Easter weight is off. Have a great weekend everyone. Star, hope your move goes well.

Take care, Sy

[Star]

Sy - good luck at WI.
Mandy - Really enjoyed your post. It wasn't too long, it was just packed with good stuff! Thanks for your advice to me!
Keri - I just saw your picture and your hubby/bf? I don't know where it is or how I got there but I found it. Your were hugging hubby/bf.
Fiona - I love Applebee's.......

[textjewel]

Mandy - lot's of good things. And I guess one tangible thing I can relate to right now is that my size 20 jeans are really too big. And that it is really all within us. All of us have to reach that point as to whether the off plan foods are worth it, according to where we are in the journey. (Sometimes that :devil: just says 'go for it')

(Star, I finally took my measurements so I have a baseline for May 1st - now why is my right leg one inch bigger all around?). I also think that you should wait until after you come back before rejoining - although with your horror stories, I'm not sure what you'll be getting out of it. Did you give up on the calorie counting idea?

Fiona - I like applebee's too. :)

Sy - my fingers are crossed for you.

The other thing I've been wondering about are 'planned weeks of LAWL' - maybe at that 30 pound mark??? Sort of like a vacation, and when you come back you're recommitted. .

Julie

[Star]

Julie - It is not uncommon for one leg or arm to be alittle bigger than the other. Like I'm right handed and use the calculator alot. My right arm is in better shape than my left. ( I know that sounds silly :lol: ) If you work out enuf at some point they will even out (or so says the mighty PT).
About me going back, I'm not sure it's a good thing either. But I did give up on counting calories (too much work). I'm at the point where I want to jump back on the wagon and drop this last bit of weight. Becuz this weight loss journey won't be over til I make it to goal.

[textjewel]

Star - I am VERY right handed - so I know what you mean - my ring sizes are smaller on my right hand, etc.. I was just surprised that there was that much difference between my right and left legs. I'm thinking that I may actually have more muscle (ha) in my right leg since I probably favor it. Thanks for the hint from your PT (I'm beginning to think I should chip in on your fees).

About the calorie counting - it is boring - it is much easier to follow the LAWL exchanges - have you thought about just doing that, and adding in about 350 cals somewhere to replace the lites?

[Star]

Julie - When the PT told me they would even out I didn't really believe him. I thought I should work the more flabby side alittle more. Lo and behold, he was right, I never did do extra sets for the flabby arm but somehow it is looking more like the 'good' arm...
About going back/not going back to Center of doom, I think I need the counslors treating me like a stepchild if I got off plan. I don't know that I would be hard enuf on myself to do plan without having to weigh in front of someone. Maybe I should just set a date and try it for a week or maybe till the 14th, afterall I know the plan and I have you chicks.

[textjewel]

Star - just goes to show that an expert really does know more after all.

Why don't I nag you on 4/18 - and then you can try to go back on plan for a week on your own? (not that I'm encouraging you to go and eat french fries for the next two weeks.)

[Star]

Julie - About the PT, maybe that certification means something afterall....tee-hee

I will take no offense to you being my personal nag. Start nagging on Monday, I'm ready to start prior to vacation. Since you do so good on plan, you have the right to nag me.....thanks.

[Star]

Well it's time to take my April Fool's Day ticker down, it was fun while it lasted.

[textjewel]

Star - I'm not sure that I'm doing that good, since the scale is sitting in this 3 pound range. . . but we can nag each other. I am trying not to obsess, since tomorrow is my last day on the prednisone - and then hopefully, things will start to move again next week.

I hope your moving day is full of strong, good looking guys. . .

[Star]

Julie - You are doing great and I like all that you are learning (& sharing Cliff notes with us). Like you have said victory is not all shown on the scale.
Thanks for the good wishes about the move. If things get bad I can always ask DH to do the Michael Jackson moonwalk for me (always makes me laugh so hard).
I'm leaving my ticker so I can just put the right numbers in on Monday - meaning weighing and that is a scarier thought than moving.

Hope everyone has a great weekend. ;)

[textjewel]

I think you should video tape it!

Thank you -- I still have to continually remind myself about non-scale progress . . .

[Star]

When I'm sick, mad, sad whatever he moonwalks and it is hilarious......
I'm out - catch you Monday......

[mandyd26]

Hello again,
Ok here is my question/problem. I started out at a snug size 20. I am 5'7" and I weighed 235. Now I'm at 160 and here I am fitting in to 10's and even some 8's. The eights have to be stretch jeans (levis or something like that) or dress pants. So today I go to the store and just for kicks and giggles try on a size 6 pair of dress pants and I swear I'm not lying... They fit!! Now I know that I'm not a size 6. I'm having a hard time even believing I'm an 8 or 10. I'm 160 and 5'7". I shouldn't be fitting in to these small of sizes. It's driving me crazy though. I don't know if I'm crazy or if all of the stores are trying to trick me into thinking I'm smaller or what. Now I know that the stretch factor on pants are helping me out a bit. I've got some curves, but I still shouldn't even be able to pull a size 6 dress pant up over my thighs and hips. Ok I'm done obsessing for the moment.... Just wondering if any of you have had some similiar experiences with sizes. Talk to you later.

Mandy

[beancounter_fl]

Hi,

I've been lurking for a few days and thought I should actually register and say hey.

I'm 33 years old, married, with two kids: boy 13, girl 9. I'm an internal auditor at a large state bank.

I started LAWL last week and have lost 4.4 lbs so far. I am 5'1" and my goal is 120lbs.

I'm doing LAWL without the LA Lites, so I am on the purple plan (without the Lites). They started me on yellow, but since I refused the bars, they needed to add some extra food so I wouldn't starve to death. They weren't happy that I didn't want the bars, but they were the ones that said they were optional.

So far I haven't had any problems. Its certainly enough food to keep me satisfied, and I haven't had any uncontrolable cravings yet.


Mandy - I do know that when I was a size 8 I could fit into some 6's and even the occaisional 4. I also fit into some 10's. It really depends on the brand name and the cut. For example: Old Navy sizes are cut bigger than Gap. As a side note, my husband came accross a 1967 sears catalog when he was cleaning out his mother's house. The women's clothing sizes went from size 8 to size 18. The size eight measurements were the same as what a size 2-4 would be now. (waist: 23-23.5" hips: 34-34.5) I know that I was not that small in a size 6 not so long ago. There wasn't anything smaller than that, and there were no "plus sizes". Also, there were no juniors clothes. It went straight from girls to womens. Cool to look at old stuff like that.

[textjewel]

Good morning chickies,

Hi Beanie! (if you don't give us your real name, you'll be stuck with that!) If you've been lurking on the boards, now you know all about us! We're usually pretty quiet on the weekends, but still some of us pop around and check in.

Mandy, it is true. (The stores do realize that a size is a mental thing, and if you can get in a smaller size, you'll buy it) The last time when I was at 140's I was wearing 6's and 8's in pants, and the occaisional 4 on top. That was why I didn't think I wanted to really go below 140 for a goal weight. I mean, what was the point? Every store has different 'size models' and there are definate differences in cut. Buy them, enjoy them! Also, the other thing I found is that the 10 pound rule = 1 size isn't as true when you're smaller - when you reach goal, you really may be in more 6's than 8's - depending on how your weight is distributed.

Hugs and skinny vibes to all!
Julie

[SyracuseNY]

Welcome Beanie. Good for you for doing LA without the Lites!

Good Morning. Boy did I sleep in today. Well, at WI I was down 2.2 (back to 162 even). Now I can move forward. Maybe the Blue plan is finally kicking me for me (and I"m doing better at sticking POP). If I keep up what I've been doing, (my mantra) I WILL make my goal!

About the clothes sizes, I'm 5'7" at 162 and fit into size 12s, or teens 13. I have some 10's my sister gave me. I can get them on, but they are still too tight for my comfort because I have a wide flat butt. Body shape has a lot to do with sizes as well as no quality control at mfg plants, and the fact that our clothes are made in every other country but America. Even Levi, they are not made in America, you can try on 5 pair of the same size jeans and all will fit differently. I wrote an email to Levi about a year ago because my non-shopper DH needed new jeans, I brought home several pair (about 6-8 in several different shopping trips) and he found 1 to fit in the waist, and all were suppose to be the same size.

Mandy, I would definately take bragging rights if I could fit into a size 6!

Well, I have to get moving. Take care and I'll stop back later. Sy

[BAS]

Good Morning GIrls and welcome newbies - its absolutely gorgeous here but my hubby informs me that the bears are out. I may have to drive out to the high way and park and walk - not sure - I really want to walk outside. But I could walk up and down my own short road here back and forth , back and forth until I get 45 minutes in - May have to dig out my CD for music because it will get boring.

I am down two pounds this morning on my scale which makes me happy. Somewhere in my freezer I have a turkey breast which I'm going to dig out and make tomorrow. I have lots of cleaning to do today - no grandkids :( I"m lost without them. So I have to keep busy or I"ll eat. Shopping is tomorrow with hubby - he's going to a gun show while I shop. WIth the price of gas we decided to go together. @2.39 per gallon :mad: SIckening and we have to have it. My friend at work asked if we should start carpooling and I said sure. We haven't decided yet.

Catch everyone later.

[textjewel]

Sy - WHOOHOO! The blue plan IS the one for you! And I know what you mean about the same style/maker not being the same size-I've seen that with walmart jeans.

Beverly, WTG on the scale loss! What ever you're doing is working!

I love the stories you tell about where you live! I have NEVER seen a live bear. (I have seen a live President, though).

The price of gas is totally outrageous. It's gone up 30cents in the past 3 weeks. What a sticker shock! Good luck with the carpooling - it never worked that well with me - I don't like to talk to people that early in the morning.

Julie

[Mitchypoo]

Julie, which President?

Welcome to Beanie...

Mandy~Wow, just enjoy being in a 6! That's cool. I do agree though that sizing is very different according to the manufacturer. It's hard to say you are a certain size anymore. My goal use to be to stay a single digit, like an 8, but i'd be happy to reach goal and i think when i am i'd be a 12/14. But it's been so long since i've been in those sizes, who knows.

I have my cousins wedding in CA in June, got the invitation the other day. So I have another incentive to get rid of this weight. I'm really excited to be there and share her day, she's a really dear person. She's marrying a cop. Good flirting material at the wedding i'm sure! ;) Well, we'll have to see where this goes with Eric... he's continuing to call and we're going to see eachother tomorrow. :love:

Star, that is so funny about DH :rofl: and doing the moon-walk for you. I had an x-boyfriend who would make an elephant noise that cracked me up. Weird how those little things are so funny.

I was up at WI yesterday...but i'm not giving up. Doing good so far today.

[mandyd26]

Good Morning! Thanks for all of the info on sizes. I think if someone were to ask me I would just say I'm in a comfortable size 10 and can fit in to some 8's and a rare 6. Boy that is a lot to say. I guess I need to stop worrying about sizes. I'll just focus on my goal and whatever size I end up being is fine with me.

Beanie- I'm new here also. Although you've probably been here longer. I lurked for about 5 minutes before I registered. :) I've also heard that sizes have changed over the years. I read a post on one of the forums the other day that said a size 6 today was a size 8 10 years ago. I was in high school 10 years ago and wore a size 7-9. That makes sense to me because I weighed between 135 and 140 then and now I'm 160 and can fit in to a size 8-10. So with today's sizes I would have been about a 6 back in highschool. Oh well, I can't get caught up in that. I'm 10 yrs older, don't play sports all of the time and have had a child. I can't excpect to be as thin as I was in high school. I just want to be the healthiest me.

Sy- I'm on the gold plan. What is the difference with that and the blue plan? We have the same stats right now. 5'7" 160 ish. (I was at 160.6, today I'm at 161.4) Just curious, because I want to get these last 11 to 12 pounds off! About my size.. I think I carry my weight pretty evenly, but I have a bigger chest and a J-lo booty. (I wished it looked as good as hers though) So I can't fit into the ultra low rise slim fit jeans. They won't go over my bum.

Mitchyoo-That's always great to have a date to look forward to where you can show off your success. It's a good motivater. Mine is April 16th. We're going to see some of my husbands family who haven't seen me since I was at about 177. I hope to be around 157 by then, so I'll be 20 pounds lighter this time around. Cool. I just now figured that out. I'm even more excited now. :)

I know! what is up with these gas prices? I heard a rumor that it could be up to around $3 by summer. I hope that isn't true. I wish all of the people would organize and not buy any gas for 1 or 2 days. It seems like that would make the prices go down. (at least temporarily)

Juile-I want to know which President you saw also. It's always fun to live vicariously through other people. :) I've also seen the size thing with wal-mart jeans. I guess that again goes to show me that I can't be obsessive about a size. Because it will vary depending on style/brand.

I'm going to a Sting concert tomorrow with some friends. I'm really looking forward to getting out of the house. My DH will have to stay at home with my DS though. Although that'll probably give them some good bonding time. I'm worried about going off plan tomorrow. I guess I shouldn't worry. I should just plan ahead and eat on plan. Any tips or suggestions would be appreciated. I do really well OP when I'm in my regular day to day routine, but throw and event in there and it messes me up. I'm too close to being under 160 now. I don't want to gain 2 pounds in one day and have to lose it all over again. Anyway, hope you're all having a good weekend so far!

Mandy

[bride2bMeg]

I'm new to this board. Have been doing LAWL since December and have fluctuated SO much an am only down 7 pounds, but NOW I'm getting serious as my wedding is in November!!!

So how does this board work? Talk.. goals?

[BAS]

Hello Bride2bMeg: Talk, support, motivation, encouragement - friends - were all that. I'm not doing the LAWL right now but they still support me big time. The board on weekends are usually pretty quiet because everyone is busy doing things. I actually have more time on the weekends than I do at work because I can't post at work - I'm in the main office and everyone can see the screen and they would know I was chatting. Although when everyone leaves for a few minutes I do read the forum. It always makes me smile.

Just reading other people's posts keeps me motivated and makes me realize that I'm not the only one with a weight problem who cares about it. Loosing weight is so dang hard (for me anyway). You know I was just cleaning out a drawer and found an old report card of mine from 8th grade. I was 5 feet tall and 115 pounds - Why did I keep eating :( ( Oh I know why -) I was too shy and poor and knew it. My clothes were made by my mom the sweetie but most of it was cotton and straight down. Or we got hand me downs from real old folks - Yep - that was my wardrobe until I started babysitting at 14 and earned some of my own money. But that money - I spent on my parents mostly too because we struggled. Dad worked hard and mom was a stay at home mom who babysat some kids. Sometimes supper was hot home made bread, soup and cake for dessert - lots of carbs - meat was just so expensive.

Well welcome aboard and I wish you luck Meg to loose the weight before your wedding and more luck to keep it off. When I was a senior I weighed 190 pounds at 5.6 tall. When I married three years later I was 125 pounds - they had to take my wedding dress in. I stayed thin until the second child 7 years later and oh well - the story goes. ;)

Happy Day

[textjewel]

Hi chickies!

Nice to see some more new 'faces'!

Meg - we can be a pretty chatty group - we discuss dieting, exercise (there is another thread for that) and our journey along the LAWL life. Most of us here have been or are on LAWL - so we ditscuss the program, the plan, successes, and the trials and tribulations. There's also a fair amount of 'chick chatter'. It's pretty quiet around here on the weekends, since most chickies have lives away from the computer, but it can get pretty lively during the work week. Don't beat yourself up - you're SEVEN pounds lighter! Think where'd you be without the diet!

So, yeah, go ahead and post your goals - we'll be right next to you . . .

My goal is to try to lose 15 pounds by June 3rd - which is when I leave for my European vacation - although if I'm in size 12's I'll be pleased. That may not be possible, but it is a goal!

Michelle - sounds like we have similar goals! I'm glad that you're in touch with Eric. . . And I like your attitude about the wedding. .And good luck for the rest of the weekend. How is the knitting going? I'm considering a shawl/triangle shape for my travels. . .

Mandy - lucky you, getting to see Sting! I'm not sure I can really give you many pointers - you can have alcohol if you save a fruit or a starch - depending on what you drink. What kind of things will be around to tempt you? About the blue plan - it's supposed to be for people exercising, or diabetic, or on shift work (I think) - you get an extra 1/2 protein and a starch from the gold plan. Did you start on gold? (I'm on purple)

Okay - the President thing - many years ago I had a car that was in pretty bad shape, and a rattle because one of the heat absorbing things was loose. I used to work very close to the White House, and 10 years ago, you could actually drive in front of it. . . Mr & Mrs. Clinton were accross the street (I think they may have been visiting at Blair House - that's where many dignitaries stay - and Of Course, the police stopped the traffic while the President and First Lady where outside . . . And of course, there were a lot of press/TV/etc. . . And my poor car rattling away. Height of summer (may have been July or August) so of course, car windows open. . .I wanted to crawl UNDER the hood. I was suprised that no secret service man came up to me and ask me to turn off the engine. . . Boy, was I glad when they finally released us and I could get off Pennsylvania Avenue. . .Squirm time. However, I have a friend that got Bill Clintons biography autographed and she was pretty amazed at his charisma. (I only saw him from about 200 yards).

Hugs to all,
Julie

[mandyd26]

Welcome Meg! I'm new here also, but already feel like an old timer. This is a great group of ladies or should I say Chicks.

So, I guess what I'm worried about tomorrow is not the concert itself, I suppose it's hanging out with people who aren't trying to lose weight and being tempted to eat whatever they eat. We have a 2 1/2 hour drive to the concert, so I'm sure we'll either go to dinner or go somewhere after the concert. I don't drink, so I'm not concerned with that temptation, but I'm worried that I might eat pizza or hot dogs or something really yummy like mozerella sticks. :T Ok why do I torture myself like this. Now I'm craving all of the above things. Anyway, I think what I'll do is eat a really big salad or something before they come to pick me up and then maybe take a couple protein bars or something and drink a lot of water. That way I won't be hungry and will be less likely to overindulge. I'll probalby save my starches until dinner, so I can have more choices if we eat out somewhere. I can do this!!!

Well, I will talk to you all later!

Mandy

Cute story Julie. It gave me a chuckle :lol:

[textjewel]

Mandy - it is tough - could you try to use carb craver, and plan for a piece of pizza as a protein? OR, stand tough, and choose a place for dinner that gives you latitude to choose what you want.. .Alot of times, we go with the flow, when what we want is just as important!! (Can you tell, I face this alot!)

[videochick]

Here's an article from ediets.com and Jorge Cruise, a little reading for a rainy night, at least in NYC. There's another article from that site I'll post over in the exercise yard. I'll be back on to catch up later. Work was a "beach" this week! - Melissa:

The 3-Hour Diet: Eat More, Lose More

By Kim Droze
eDiets Managing Editor

Spring has sprung. It’s time to put away those bulky clothes and flash a little flesh! If you need a little help shedding those extra pounds, click here to see what eDiets has to offer and choose from over 20 fantastic customizable plans.

Stop hunger, derail deprivation, and start losing belly fat -- your 3 greatest weight loss wishes are about to be granted by none other than renowned diet guru Jorge Cruise.

In this eDiets exclusive, Jorge unveils his groundbreaking new approach for melting away those extra pounds. The secrets are easily accessible in Jorge's new book, The 3-Hour Diet (HarperCollins). First, learn the 6 reasons you might not be losing.

Hot on the heels of his bestseller 8 Minutes in the Morning (HarperCollins) comes Jorge's latest offering which goes where no other diet has gone before.

"Timing is critical for effective weight loss," Jorge tells eDiets. "That’s my one statement. It’s not just what you eat but when you eat. It’s really a new way of thinking."

In a world of carb cutting, calorie counting and miracle foods, Jorge’s approach is a novel one. While other diets focus on what you eat, The 3-Hour Diet revolves around when you eat.

Jorge says that by eating every three hours you’re resetting your metabolism and preventing your body from going into starvation mode. That’s the bottom line of his innovative new program.

Forget food scales and carb counting manuals -- a watch is about to become your most important diet tool!

"It’s not five hours or two hours. Three hours is ideal because if you allow more than that your starvation protection mechanism is turned on," Jorge t ells eDiets.

"That’s when the body starts to burn calories. Most people would say that’s fantastic. But when you’re in starvation protection mode, you burn a combination of fat and muscle. When you lose muscle, you lose metabolism. The key is to never go into starvation protection.

"This plan prevents you from doing that. You only burn 100 percent fat and never any muscle. You maintain your metabolism. My worst pet peeve is when I have clients who skip breakfast and won’t eat until noon. All that time in the morning, you’re eating up and cannibalizing lean muscle. You’re eroding the resting metabolism and that erodes all success."

Among the other benefits of good timing: increased basal metabolic rate, increased energy levels, suppressed appetite, lowered cholesterol and reduced levels of the belly-bulging hormone cortisol. By following The 3-Hour Diet, your daily itinerary should look much like this:

7 a.m. breakfast
10 a.m. mid-morning snack
1 p.m. lunch
4 p.m. mid-afternoon snack
7 p.m. dinner

Jorge says with his new plan you eat what you want. It’s that simple. Jorge is a firm opponent of cutting out any foods or food groups. He says deprivation may equal short-term loss but it leads to long-term gain. Jorge’s not giving you license to go out and binge.

"It’s about new thinking," he explains. "You have to break with old thought. If you like chocolate, eat it... just don't eat the whole box. If you like carbs, eat bread... just not the whole loaf. It’s common sense. Everyone knows that."

With The 3-Hour Diet, you enjoy three meals and two treats each day. As a guideline for meal planning, Jorge has created The 3-Hour Plate which provides a visual aid for portion control. He recommends using a standard 9-inch plate. Fill half the plate with vegetables the equivalent of three DVD cases. Then fill the other half of the plate with carbohydrates the equivalent of a Rubik’s Cube, protein the equivalent of a deck of cards, and a teaspoon of fat the equivalent of a water bottle cap. (See graphic at left.)

As for snack choices, they can range from M&M’s to Nabisco 100-calorie packs. It's important for you to stay around 100 calories, he says. Overall, you’ll enjoy the foods you like… every three hours you're awake.

The side effects of his healthy eating regimen include losing two pounds a week -- starting with belly fat -- and lowering your hunger threshold.

If you hit a plateau and stop losing weight, check to see if any of these 6 factors are to blame:

1. You’re menstruating. Most women retain water and therefore gain a pound or two during that time of the month. Don’t sweat it. Once your period ends, you’ll step back on the scale to find that you really did continue to lose fat.

2. You’re taking a new medication. Certain medications, such as steroids, some heart meds and birth control pills, can cause water retention which will boost your weight on the scale. Others, such as certain antidepressants, can boost appetite and slow your metabolism, triggering weight gain.

3. You’re consuming too much salt. Sodium can cause water retention. Although this isn’t fat gain, it is frustrating to step on the scale and not see results. Keep your salt intake below 2,000 milligrams a day. Switch from salt to a salt substitute such as Mrs. Dash and read food labels.

4. You’re been exercising. If you’ve been incorporating Jorge’s 8 Minute Moves into your program, you’ve added some lean muscle, which may boost your weight on the scale. This is good weight, so don’t stop. His 8 Minute Moves will add about one quarter-pound of muscle per week, or about one pound per month.

5. You’re using the scale inappropriately. Your body weight fluctuates throughout the day and week, which is why he recommends you weigh yourself just once a week at the same time of day. You’ll find you weigh more later in the day than in the morning.

6. You weigh less than 150 pounds. In this case, you may need to switch to a slightly different eating plan.

To get your copy of The 3-Hour Diet, click here.

Get ready to become a weight loss winner. To get started, click here and fill out a free diet profile.

[mandyd26]

Julie- I forgot to mention that I did start on the Purple plan. They switched me to the gold plan when I hit about 190. (approx 45 lbs lost) Thanks for explaining the blue plan. I didn't know it existed.

Mandy

[textjewel]

Good morning chicks!

Happy Daylight Savings!

Melissa, thanks for posting that list. Today is the first day off steroids. I guess one of my goals should be to drink lots of water! Also, I think it's interesting about eating every 3 hours - that is also part of what I've been reading. Apparantly, we burn about 10% of the calories we eat in digestion - and if we eat frequently, we keep the fires going. PLUS - our bodies get used to the idea that we keep on feeding them, so they don't worry about holding onto excess fat! (I am not too sure about his cookie snacks, but that's me. . .)

Mandy - I'm supposed to move to gold after I reach 183. Although I may fight them on it. . . I think it's awesome that you've had such success on the program.

One of the things I'm thinking about is post-goal-weight goals. Have you thought about that?

Hi to the new chicks!
Hope all have a good POP day!

Julie

[BAS]

Good Morning Julie and anyone else up. Its a gorgeous day -already got my walk in outside. Were going shopping in a little bit - fleet farm, walmart etc. I have been OP perfect (three days now). I got even more determined when the scale was up a pound today so now I have the measuring scale out and was surprised at what two ounces actually is. So I've been over guessing. Not any more though.

I've decided I've cheated enough and no more. I want control and I even sleep better going to bed knowing I was OP today. But come Friday may be a challenge - I'm meeting my daughter and my sister for lunch. We all have doctor appointsments in the big city. You know when the doctor weighs you and if your over 200 at my height of 5.5 they write you down as obese - never again will I let that happen - I'm sure it says overweight but hopefully never obese again. But NOT FOR LONG!!!

Okay I gotta get my lunch in and then were gonna get going. Have a great day. I'll check back later tonight. I can't believe the weekend is almost over - :( But then the sooner this week goes the sooner I get my grand daughter - YAE. :D

Bye

[mandyd26]

Good Morning!
I haven't thought about post goal weight loss goals. I suppose I need to start thinking about that. The obvious one is to maintain my weight, but I haven't thought further than that. I guess another one would be to get in shape. I really want to tone up.

One thing I'm having a problem with now is not getting enough water in. I was going to ask for tips, but I know that I just need to do it. It's as easy as that, but sometimes it can seem hard.

I eat about every 2 to 3 hours. Sometimes I can't wait 3 hours to eat, so I don't know if I could just say only every 3 hours. I know that I rarely go over 3 hours without eating though, so I guess at least I'm doing that right. :)

I've been maintaning my weight for a couple of days. It's my TOM (am I saying that right?) So I really shouldn't even be weighing myself. I have an unhealthy scale obsession though and can't go a day without weighing myself.

Bev- I know what you mean about being able to sleep better at night when you've stayed OP. It's true for me also. I've went through phases where I was miscalculating oz too. And the other day I realized that for a few days. I was measuring my meat after it was cooked and not subtracting an oz. Congrats on eating OP for three days. Keep it up. I was on a roll for a few weeks. Which is uncommon for me. I usually cheat a little here and there. I had something off plan the other day and gained a pound. It was just one silly italian sub! Oh well. I didn't let it get me down. Just have to keep going.

Well, I hope you are all having a good day. It's cloudy and rainy here. I want some sunshine!

Mandy

[SyracuseNY]

Happy Day Light Savings!

Well, it's been raining here for 2 days and looks like it will be continuing through tomorrow and then we have a 2 day break and it's suppose to rain for another 3 days. It's spring! The buds are coming out and although I hate rain, it sure does some amazing stuff (like budding of the trees and flowers) and unamazing things like flooding. I my sister just called and her stone wall and fence has collasped. Many roads in the CNY area are closed due to flooding, and rivers and lakes are over flowing. Many people without subpumps in their basements have had basement flooding. Yikes - so far, I have been lucky!

Mandy: It may be too late to tell you this, but my sister found these chicken sausage type things at BJ's in the meat department. They are 140 calories and taste like kielbasa - had one for lunch yesterday. They are low in fat, so if they are having hotdogs, this might be something that you could bring with you to avoid the hotdog temptation? Of course, if you could eat them cold? Maybe another time. Have fun at the concert!

Welcome to the board bride2bemeg. We have another bridetobe who is getting married this weekend or it may have been last week and she's on her honeymoon? I'm not quiet sure.

Well, just wanted to stop by and check on everyone. I have to get dressed and go pickup some patio furniture that a friend is giving me as she is moving to NC and doesn't want to lug it with her. Can't wait to see it. I told her I would take it sight unseen. Have a great day. (and yes, it's after 3:00pm and I'm still not dressed - it goes with rainy days, doesn't it? :o ).

Sy

[mrsSmiley]

Good Day to all!!!

I joined LAWL on March 15th and am doing fairly well. I basically like the program but find it frustrating that the counselors aren't trained more. If you ask 3 different counselors a question, you will get three different answers. That is very frustrating. I have dieted for many years and am a diabetic and a nurse and feel like I know more about things than they do. I would like to be able to combine foods for dishes but have received little help from them. I know how to count proteins, starches, etc... but they don't count them like I do. Cheese has always been counted as a protein. Anyway......

Congratulations to those doing so well!! Those cheating or off plan for whatever reason, tomorrow is a new day, why not make a fresh start and get that weight off before the heat comes. One thing that is keeping me on plan is the cost. My hours have dropped lately so I don't want to be paying them and then gaining. :yikes:

When I joined, I put my whole family on the plan. I adjusted it for my teenager and my 8 yr old. They eat slim fast bars and south beach bars instead of LA. In 2 1/2 weeks my husband has lost 16 lbs and two pants sizes, my teenager 10 lbs and the 8 yr old 5 lbs. Together we have lost THIRTY NINE LBS in just 2 1/2 weeks!!!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D
:dance: :cb: :cheer:

Does anyone have any recipes besides the cookbook ones? Things like muffins, cornbread? Does anyone know whether we can use Krusteaz muffins?

I look forward to getting to know you all.

Thanks,

[textjewel]

Hi again, chickies

MrsSmiley, you are absolutely right - the LAWL way of counting exchanges is nothing like any other diet I've ever been on. Like why is cheese a dairy, but cottage cheese is a protein? And you probably do have more knowledge - you've got training most people don't have, but also not many of the conselours have much nutrition training outside of the LAWL way - so that's the way they'll answer a question.

I also agree with you about combining foods - it doesn't seem to be a LAWL suggested way of doing things, since the portions are counted as full proteins, etc.

About the packaged mixes - there doesn't seem to be any prepared/canned stuff in the program except for frozen dinners like lean cuisines, etc. The food is pretty plain. The only reference I can give you is that the most calories per serving for a starch is about 70-80 cals - about 1 small whole wheat pita bread or 1/3 c of pasta - if you can make the mixes work in that range, you could give it a try. However, there may be added sodium to watch out for.

It's terrific that your whole family is doing so well on the program!

Sy - we had flooding here, too, but it looks like we'll finally have sunshine and upper 60's this week. My azaleas are beginning to bud. . . I think.

Mandy - I have the same scale obsession. I actually don't think it's that bad, since I have a better idea of what causes it to go up. (One tip for the water - try a straw. I always seem to drink more that way) (and yes TOM is the right way to say it). The reason I asked about post weightloss goals, is that I've been overweight for so long, and it's been such a big part of my life for so long, that I need to have a goal PAST that. Otherwise, I'll lose focus. It's just one of those things in the back of my head - I still have many pounds to go.

Beverly - did you see any bears? I have to pull out the scale too sometimes - I get too used to eating lean cuisines, or a can of tuna. . .and my eyes don't measure the same from day to day. I also UNDERMEASURE things sometimes, which is also bad. About the cheating - maybe you should decide on ONE cheat a week. And then you can look forward to it. And once you've had it, it's over. I know you can handle Friday. Just pick the place that has the most choices! You deserve it! Are you trying to follow calories at all?

Enjoy the extra sunshine, chickies!
Julie

[BAS]

No bears but a friend said they saw one and they are definitely out. I took the dog this morning and when he quits going in one direction then I stop too.

I am embarrassed to tell you this again :o I'm back to doing the 6WBMO with M Thurmond again. Boring but it works - because I just keep climbing up. :rollpin: Its so strict and thats what I need - not even a chocolate kiss. :mad: I also know I have to stick with it no matter what - its the only plan for me. Hopefully I loose it by summer otherwise my Luna Bars will get old on me. :dizzy:

I brought myself size 12 black Riders jeans - I just tried them on- they fit great! I almost cried. But I couldn't tuck anything into them yet. I also brought two neon colored t shirts - orange and blue just to be colorful - and not my age at all. Those I want to wear tucked in - thats my goal - my huge big goal. I was really pretty good today - cooked up all my foods. My treat to myself was a new plant. I love plants in every room hanging plants though - so I'm excited to put that up. I also brought a small bulletin board because I want to put old and new pictures on it of everyone in my family - sort of like a colage (sp). Something to do right.

Anyway I'm off to a good start especially for a weekend - watching my hubby eat chips and my son eating crackers and I just walked away with my big glass of water. I'm so dang proud of myself - I only hope that being true to this plan really really does work quickly. The last time I did this (two years ago) I lost 20 pounds in six weeks. I need to do that again. Well have to see . Six weeks is a long time but I told my 9 year old grand daughter - I promised her I would wear shorts this summer and by George I am. :cool:

Okay I"m gonna go do something. TIme for my mini snack too - two boiled egg whites and a few strawberries.

Have a great night- Hugs

[haylo921]

Hello girls, Wow! I was at a convention for almost the whole week and I can't believe how many postings there have been!
Tommorrow is my first day, I am starting the two-day thing and then going in on Tuesday to get the meal plan I am excited. I am ready to shed some pounds.

Beanie: I was happy to see that you refused the bars, I was wondering what they would do in these types of cases, because I have a thryoid disorder and I have heard that people with thyroid disases should not have a high intake of soy, which I think from what I have heard that these bars do?

Keep up the good work everybody and thanks for being motivated.

[videochick]

Hi, everyone,

I thought I would get on-line sooner than this but work has been a royal pain and then this weekend I babysat for my sister who started back to work after maternity leave.

Just a quick cheer for us to all do the best we can this week!

It was miserable here all weekend, I tried to eat on plan while at my sister's but she has way too many goodies in the house for my dear BIL who is still as trim as when we were in high school. Ack!

As for sizes, I'm 5'6" and at WI Friday I was 162. I wear a 12, there is the odd ten I can get into. I agree that body shape also has a lot to do with it, even at my smallest, about 135-140 I usually wore a ten, maybe a few eights. I'm broad through the hips and the shoulders and my arms and legs are pretty long. LA had my goal at 135 but I had them change it to 145, I will be happy to be a comfortable, loose size 10. A friend of mine was a buyer for The Gap about 10 years ago and she told me that they had "downsized" their sizing, meaning what was once a size 10 was now marked as size 8, hence people felt better that they fit in a smaller size and would buy, when really they were buying their regular size (if that makes sense). I don't think the gap still does this from my own recent experience or else with all these low cut, skinny leg jeans things just fit different. Anyway, I say buy what feels good on you, not based on the size tag.

Oh, and if anyone sews here, did you ever consider the sizing on clothes patterns, sometimes my measurements are for size 16. So really there is no standard in the industry.

Well off to bed, sweet dreams

Melissa

[Fashnvictm]

Beanie: I was happy to see that you refused the bars, I was wondering what they would do in these types of cases, because I have a thryoid disorder and I have heard that people with thyroid disases should not have a high intake of soy, which I think from what I have heard that these bars do?

wha...wha...waht? I have Hypothyroidism and Prolactinoma and I've never been told to stay away from soy. Can you explain? What is the reason to stay away from it? now ya got me curious! :s:

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies!

(I can tell TOM is creeping up on me, when I wake up at 4:30 in the morning, and that's with daylight savings time. . .)

Marisa- please check with your doctor! I've heard this too, that soy is NOT recommended for people with thyroid problems! Did you tell LAWL that you were hypothryroid when you started?

Melissa - yes, body shape and bones definately have a lot to do with sizes - I'm pretty narrow above the waist, which is why I could get into 4's when I was at 135 the last time. And my limbs are shorter than average (really!) so I'm always rolling up sleeves - any height I have is in my trunk -and it is true that the sizes for sewing patterns haven't changed in YEARS. I have patterns from the early 90's through now that have the same measurements.

Haylo/Janelle - yes, the lites are supposed to have soy protein in them and the luna's do, too.

Beverly - I am so jealous that you can fit into size 12 jeans! That is absolutely terrific! And WTG that you bought some bright colors. I was going through my spring clothes and found a tshirt that is bubblegum pink - and I looked at - and thought, now will I ever wear this really? You inspired me to at least put it on (although I'm not sure it fits - it may be one of those 'carrot' things I've bought). Please don't be embarrassed about starting 6WBMO over again. It seems to be something that you are comfortable with and trust that it works for you.

Mandy, tell us how Sting was?

Star, how did the move go?

Woohoo - temps are supposed to be above 60 all this week!

Hugs to all!

[mrsSmiley]

Good Morning All!!:wave:

Thanks for much Julie for the reply. I'm planning on asking them tomorrow when I go back to give me some guidelines to what equals what. If they would do that then I would be able to do some combination dishes.

Does anyone has any real good Low fat, low sodium dressing recipes??? I would love to be able to make my own. My favorites of course are Ranch, thousand Island, etc.. Haven't found a vinegarette that I really like yet, except a raspberry at a restaurant we sometimes eat at.

Well, I hope everyone has a GREAT Monday!!!

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: Wow, in the 60s this week. Don't you just love living in VA? I'm so happy that you can see azaleas in bloom! My SIL lives in Portsmouth, VA and is always talking about her azaleas in blooming this time of year. A true sign of Sping. I get excited when our lilacs are in bloom but that's not until the end of May. LOL! Plus, I love the scent! I went to 2 weeks of training in RTP outside of Raleigh, NC a few years ago. It was in May and I swear, I thought that I died and went to heaven. It was early May, warm, and each morning I would drive to training and smell the honeysuckle in bloom. It was awesome. Something we don't see/smell in the NE. Julie, about the size 4. My workout buddy is small on top and has a very tiny waist, she weights about 140 at 5' 4" and she wears a size 4 as well. I don't think I've ever worn a size 4 - maybe when I was 5 years old. LOL!

I have to say, I had a pretty good weekend as far as OP. My WI on Friday really has me excited about reaching my BD goal.

Bev: Wow, bears? And you still go for a walk? Yikes! I know they bears in the Adirondacks Mts but have never seen one. Hopefully I won't either. I'm not a camper type of person so it's likely that I won't ever get the chance. Your a brave lady!

Haylo: Good luck at starting LA. I'm so happy your starting. I started the same week last year and you will be amazed at how much weight you can lose if you can stick to the plan. We are all here to root you on!

Smiley: Welcome, and WTG on the weight loss. Great that the whole family is involved. I don't think there is any muffin or cake type of item that will fit into LA's plan. As far as mixing things. There are several ways if your creative. I'll write a few things in the Recipe Board of some of the things that I have used - maybe that will help you out. Give me a few days. My sister is always thinking up new ways of combining foods. Tell me what you like and I can ask her and it will give me an idea of where to start on my posting. She and I made this cabbage dish yesterday. Her's are always yummier than mine as I'm on the Blue Plan and she's on Purple.

Fashion: Welcome to the board too! Have you ever posted here before as I I don't recall seeing your board name before. If you have, sorry I miss it. How long have you been doing LA? Maybe you posted on the BIOs page and I missed it? I'm just interested in everyone that posts. Hope you get your answers on the soy before you have any adverse reaction.

Video: Your doing great. I'm 1 inch taller than you but our weight is the same.

Starlynn: How did the move go? I don't envy you, but I'm sure it's exciting to have a new place to live (and just think, no lawn mowing). If you ever feel the urge/need for some lawn work, I'm sure I could arrange for your visit to the NE. :lol:

I gotta run. Take care everyone! ~Sy~

[BAS]

Good Monday Morning: Julie - this size 12 must be weird in that style because I can't wear 12's in other jeans but it makes me smile. (wildlife) Hubby is going to walk with me and I take my phone just in case. There is a little traffic out this way and I"m always checking to see which tree I think I can get my butt up. (Ha ha).

Smiley - try this vinegrette: 1 cup vinegar, 3 tsp chopped onion, 3 cloves garlic, 1 tsp basil (Fresh if possible) 2 tsp oregano, 1 tsp pepper, Splenda to taste. I haven't tried this but I"m making it tonight if you'd rather wait until I try it out. I got it off the 6WBMO recipe forum. I"m quite the lettuce eater so I need to find a good dressing.

Oooooooooh was it hard getting up at 5:30 and in my head I kept saying its only 4:30.

Star I also hope your move this weekend was fun. How exciting to set up the new house. Enjoy. ;)

Gotta go - time is ticking away. Hugs to everyone.

[Mitchypoo]

Well, it finally happened yesterday! Two people made reference to me losing weight! My cousin was behind me yesterday in church when we went for communion and she said i was looking good when we got back to our seats! I was thrilled inside, i was taken back b/c like we discussed earlier, i was a little discouraged b/c i knew my efforts but no one seemed to. So i was thrilled. Then at my church group last night my Aunt took me aside and commented that I was looking great. I know they are family so maybe that's it, but it was wonderful.

Saw Eric this Sat. too! :love: He had a golf-lesson that cancelled so he asked me to dinner. Had a wonderful time.

[SyracuseNY]

Mitchy: So glad that someone finally noticed your efforts! I love that feeling. I know it can be discouraging until the first time. Once 1 person notices, more will too. Keep up the good job! Forgive me, but is Eric the one that had issues, or is he the one after that?

Where is everyone today? Board seems so quiet. Sy

[SyracuseNY]

Mandy and Fashn: I just read your bios. Thanks for posting.

Mandy, any time you want to talk about your WI journey, please don't feel like no one will want to hear it. We love reading your stories and sharing our own stories here. You have come a long way, and -75 lbs in a year is awesome! You have a lot to be proud of!

Fashn: You didn't mention how tall you are?

Take care, Sy

[Mitchypoo]

Sy, no Eric isn't the one with issues, that was Bruce, and i'm not sure what happened to him, he was ill, said it was hard for him to communicate and then wouldn't return my call. So i just pray for him.

[Mitchypoo]

Speak of the devil, he just sent me this: Michele, I apologize, I have not been here much though. Please dont think this has any reflection on you. I think you are very special and appreciate having met you. I am doing OK, and id like to thank you for your friendship. I hope to make it up to you, Bruce

Still won't tell me what is wrong, it's aggravating...

[Star]

Afternoon chicks!

First, Geez I go away for a couple days and all the excitement happens......WELCOME to all you new chicks! Hope you find it fun here and if you learn something along the way then that's good too....lol For me, this site makes me feel really normal, like I'm not the only once trying to get the weight issue under control.

Second, thanks to all the well wishers regarding my move. WOW is that moving ever a good butt kicking (maybe that should be on the Exercise Yard post?) We did really well, Two Men and A Truck said we should of had Three Men and A (bigger) Truck...haha They got the job done and only one mirror got broken. DH and I worked all weekend arranging, unpacking boxes, etc. I think we have afew items of furniture to take up north and about 12 boxes left to unpack. Ofcourse none of the wall hanging stuff is done. Even though I got rid of alot of stuff beforehand I still moved too much. So more stuff goes to garage sale!
On a fun note, we locked ourselves out of the apartment this morning at 6a.m. Had to have our neighbor (who we didn't know yet) call the manager at the emergency number and come over and let us in.....lol We have the door going to the garage that locks automatically. The neighbor says he's done it and so does everyone....So today I had a key made to keep in the garage just incase.......oh and we both had on our sleep stuff......
Well, good to be back chicks - later.....again welcome to the new chickees.....

[textjewel]

Hi - may have to cut this short -I've got a telephone man coming to change my service. .

Michelle - how nice that Bruce got in touch with you. And also nice that people are beginning to notice all your hard work. I'm having lunch on Friday with people I haven't seen in a while; hopefully, they'll notice the same for me.

Star - I hope the movers broke that mirror. I've also locked myself out of an apartment, and had to climb through the window. (I stepped on a spare tire to get the height - and was black and blue afterwards.)

Beverly - if I were you I'd buy those jeans in every color they come in!

Sy - that is one thing I love about the south. I was around Savannah GA in the first week of February a couple of years ago - the azaleas were about to bloom THEN. That was when I first started dreaming about living in the south. (do you have 3 sisters?)

Hugs to all!
Julie

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: I have 4 sisters and 2 brothers (my oldest sister passed away 3 years ago so I'm not use to using the number 4, has always been 5 sisters), and me of course. So, I have 2 healthy brothers, 2 healthy sister's and 2 sister who have MS. One is in a nursing home and she's only 54, the other still lives at home with her DH, although she is wheelchair bound, she still has use of her hands and upper body and hasn't got much worst over the past few years. TG for that. Enjoy the blooms. I did see a few buds popping out of the ground, and the trees are budding. So happy it's Spring!

Michelle: When it rains it pours when it comes to guys from what I remember. If I wasn't dating anyone, there was no one around. As soon as I started dating, I had several offers. Good luck with Eric, sounds like Bruce is a nice guy with issues? You can always stay friends, right!?

Star: LOL! about getting locked out. What a way to meet your neighbors. Great that you have a summer home to put the extras at until you have time for a GS. Man, I can't believe how fast it has all happened. I'm sure your glad the major part of that is over.

Hey, we are missing a few ladies. Karen/Rusty are you out there? What about Athena, haven't heard from her in a while either. Hope you ladies are doing okay. I know there are more, my mind just went blank.

Catch you all later. ~Sy~

[mandyd26]

Hello,
So today I'm doing take off. Has anyone tried this with knudens juice instead of the Take off juice? I saw it posted somewhere on the forum and am trying it today and tomorrow. If it works as well as the take off, I'll be happy because I can save money, but upset because of how much they overcharge for this stuff at LAWL.

Sy-Thanks for your comments. I guess I should realize that we are all in this together, so it's a good thing to be able to post about your Weight Loss journey and be able to read others. I will feel free to post long posts from now on. :)

Mitchypoo-Congrats on people noticing your weight loss. I didn't have people make comments until I had lost about 30 to 35. That was really hard for me. The majority of the people that have made comments didn't start making them until I had lost 50 or so. Now that I've lost 75 (now 72) I have people making comments every time they see me again. So I feel like this year of work as finally paid off. Keep it up! :)

Julie-Sting was great! His voice is even more amazing and pure in person. He sang a lot of police stuff. I only know the really popular police songs, so I found myself not know a lot of the stuff he sang. It was still great though. So I did really well with my eating all day, but my friends decided on mexican food for dinner. Now I know there were things that I could have ordered that would have been healthier for me, but I just went for it and had a regular old meal. Although I didn't eat all of it. So today I'm up 2 pounds!! That is why I decided to go ahead and try take off again. Maybe it'll get me that jumpstart and get me under 160. That would be great. I'm at 163.4 now though, so I don't know if it will. Last time I did it I lost 6 pounds (the most I've ever lost) I don't know if that'll happen again. I'm also glad I'm not the only one with the scale obsession. I know that it helps me stay on track an realize what not to eat next time, but I hate that it can control my mood. Although I wasn't upset at the 2 pounds gain today, so maybe I'm getting better with it.

Mrssmiley- Welcome :) I love your Eeyore. Congrats on the weight loss. That is great that you are doing it as a family. That will help you out so much. It's great to have that family support. I know what you mean about getting different answers from counselors. You'll just have to find one that you can trust and always try to get the same one.

Sy-thanks for the hot dog tip. I will try to find some of those the next time we have a get bbq get together at our house. I'm a sucker for a good sausage/hot dog. Good to know their are healthier options.

Ok I'll talk to you all later.

Mandy

[vibrantecho]

Hey gals...it's official (almost)...

We're.
Buying.
A.
HOUSE!!!

:hyper: :hyper: :hyper:

Finally found one that is absolutely perfect for us, and the price is right, too, so I think we are going to be making an offer this week. EEEEEEEEK!!!!

Fiona

[textjewel]

Fiona - you go girl!

Mandy - Yes, I've used the Knudsen's juice a few times for TO. I commend you for choosing something that you wanted for dinner, instead of what you thought you should have had. Now, you know that it's just water weight (and you've got TOM creeping up on you, too?) - so do you do the hot lemon water?? I'm so glad that you enjoyed Sting - it must have been AWESOME. (He does the one about something like Field of Gold, right? I just melt at the music, even though I don't know the words)

Michelle, I also haven't had very many people say anything about my weight - although I'm hoping that now the weather is getting warmer, and I'm not draped in sweaters - SOME improvement will show.

Sy - what a big family! I only have 3 sibs - 2 brothers and 1 sister - but we are all within 5 years - so we're pretty close. I feel very lucky that I'm so close to my family and we all get along well. Did your DS have to change her house to handle the wheelchair?

Julie

[Star]

Hey chicks - it's 63 degrees here and Sunny..........yes!
Julie - the movers broke the mirror, but it was just a cheap full length one, no major deal.....
Sy - I must of missed your post are you in a run for MS? Congrats on being back down, but you have worked so hard, you deserve to be at goal! I'm rooting for you chick!
Mandy - Really cute picture of you and cutie boy! We love you success story, that's what we all want to be able to have one day! I love hearing it all, to the silliest little detail. And YES we have all done the Knudsens juice.
Fiona - Way to go with the house! Will we be seeing you on House Hunters? I love that show, I just wish they would give city names and house prices. AND I really wish that Susan Wong would gain alittle weight......lol
More MIA - Marcie, Tammy, Megs......Like you Sy, I'm sure there are more - Where are they now?

[textjewel]

Yeah, and whatever happened to my birthday buddy, BRITT???? She must have gotten lost in scrapbooking!

[Star]

Yeah - there are so many that have come and gone, it's hard to remember them all by name, but Britt was a good ole TN chickee........
And Megs is probably jogging around the United States or something........
Marcie got a job on the food channel with her famous recipies
Rusty is doing the Nascar circuit since she got her DH a pit crew job for Rusty Wallace.

[Star]

64 degrees here in Michigan and :devil: my motorcycle is up north

[Chklithunder]

Hi Everyone, and A BIG HELLO to all the new ladies.

I have been quasi-MIA (lurking is more like it), for a couple of reasons.
:comp: #1 - WORK! Whoo WEE!! :comp:When projects come near due, it really is crunch time isn't it? I am trying to stay caught up with the posts, but there are so many out here it gets a bit difficult for me. Sometimes I think I suffer from adult ADD. Seriously.

:devil: #2 - I'VE BEEN BAAAAD. :devil: Today is my first day being POP in more than a week. When I am not being true to myself I feel unworthy of posting here. I have tried all weekend to stay OP, but it was a very social weekend for me, :hat: and I found myself caving in, too often. Which brings me to a question (you guys know I love my questions): Does there ever come a time when you feel that you've truly got the hang of staying OP? When you don't dread social occasions for fear of slipping? When you feel that you totally understand the lifestyle change and you know you will be able to stay committed to it?

Not sure if the answer to that one even exists. But, today is a new day and I have done a great job with today. I guess the most I can say about this past week is "what's done is done" or "Life Happens" and move on. But wow do I feel like a failure right now. Sorry you all, I don't mean to be a killjoy, just venting a little. I probably should've put this one in my journal instead of out here.

Oh well...Here's to the rest of the day POP.

[textjewel]

Carmen, sweetie, I feel your PAIN!!!!

Never feel bad about being off plan - we all have done it -- we call it LIFE happens. I am not sure if I will ever really get the hang of doing it automatically. . . but I do think we have an opportunity to try to get it right every time we lift our hands to our mouths. . .At some point, it's really what we want more. And sometimes I just want the sugar more. Luckily, I haven't had a real range of bad days lately (vacations are different, right?)

How long have you been on the program? Truly, I found that once I started making the tough decisions when I was eating with friends and continued to make them for a while, it did get a easier to stick to the right decisions. But, if I have an opportunity to try something I don't get very often (like Easter) then I don't blow a gasket - Easter only comes once a year.

I journal too - it helps me keep on track -

Hugs,
Julie

[Chklithunder]

Julie - thanks for the encouragement. To answer your question, I've been on LAWL for about 8 weeks. For me, the past week has been more a comedy of errors than anything else. For instance, I need to go grocery shopping and have been too much of a social butterfly to go and get the healthy things I need to eat. And then when I am out someplace, there are no healthy choices. I tend to do well at restaurants, because I love grilled seafood. I ALWAYS order the grilled salmon salad whenever I go anywhere. If they don't have salmon, I order the chicken instead and just pretend. Not a biggie there.

I get in trouble whenever I go to anyone's house. Saturday I went to my DBro's house for a night of pool, cards, music, games, etc. I had one beer (not bad), and some tortilla chips with salsa (not too bad), and PIZZA. I should have gone home (better yet to the grocery store). Every day this past week has been similar to that.

I suppose I really need to learn how to separate having a good time from eating. Either that or carry a veggie tray in my car trunk 100% of the time. You are so right that it is usually just a basic decision about what we want more at the time. I need to keep that thought in the front of my head instead of the back of my mind. Maybe I should tattoo some inspirational thoughts to my forefinger and thumb so that everytime I go to put my hand to my mouth I can reinforce what I already know?

Thanks again for the encouragement. I plan to go to WI Wednesday night. I know I will show a gain (I earned it). But at least then I will know the extent of my damage, and it will likely be that much more motivation to get back on track and stay that way.

[haylo921]

Hello everyone, well today was my first day of the two day express. It has been different from what I am used but not to hard to do, although I do find myself wanting to eat carbs.

Fiona: congratulations on the house

Mitchypoo: you should be proud that people are starting to take notice in your weight loss, it is hard work and I am sure you deserve the recognition.

Mandy: what is this about Knudsens juice? it it something you get in the store? I have a friend who wants to follow the LAWL plan, but can't afford to go to the center, so I am planning on helping her along.


Fashnvictm: I have done some research on the internet hypothyroidism, because that is what I have also. Some of the internet articles that I have run across, suggest that new research has been done or continue to be done on the intake of soy. I am not to sure but I think it (soy) can interfere with thyroid function so if you have hypothyroidism it is probably not wise to take in a lot of soy. There is an internet site called: www.thyroid-info.com it is very informative and has lots of articles on it about thyroidism. One of the articles I read recently titled A weight off my Mind, Thyroid/Autoimmune Diet Newsletter is addressing LAWL and how it is actually one of the best diets for people with thyroidism. The author also states : "don't get nervous about the soy protein contained in the protein bars (la lites)- they don't contain isoflavones (the hormonally active part of soy). and don't appear to interfer with thyroid function. She also stated that she has not had any problems with the bars. :D :?:

I have heard that the isoflavone part of the soy is the ingredient that interfers with you thyroid function.

The author of the article is Mary Shomon, she has a book out titled: The Thyroid Diet, she references this book in the article stating that the diet plan that she has in her book was actually taken from LAWL. I have to book, it is informative, I don't know if it talks about the soy thing but I will look and let you know.

I hope this helps: I am planning on asking them some questions tommorw when I go in about these bars when I go in to get my meal plan. I don't know if they will be able to answer my question about whether or not these bars have isoflavones but it will be interesting to find out.

I hope this information helps you.

Janelle

[mandyd26]

Hello-

Julie-You know I actually didn't even think about it being water weight that I gained. I'm just so obsessed with the number on the scale that sometimes I just get irrational.I think I need a reality check. Thanks for giving it to me. I always forget about the hot lemon water. It probably would help me feel less bloaty while doing the take off.

Haylo- I'm actually just trying it for the first time. I read on a post somewhere on the lawl forum (of course can't find it again) that knudsens juice can be a good replacement for the Take off juice.... So I went to the health food section in my grocery store and there it was! It was 2.50 a bottle. There are 4 servings in one bottle so I bought two of them. Still $5 is a lot better than $25. Anyway, I will let you all know if it works for me. It seems like it must work though, looks like lots of others have done the same thing. Also there were a few different kinds of the juice. The label on the one I got said Simply Nutritious vita-juice. It looked to have the most vitamins etc.. It also tastes exactly like the take off juice to me.

Starlynn-Thanks for the comment about my cute little boy. :o He is a cutie. Also I don't feel like I'm a success story yet. I hope to feel that way soon. Probably will feel better once I reach my goal. Isn't it funny how we can never seem to be satisfied.

Carmen- I am so there with you on this comment..... "I suppose I really need to learn how to separate having a good time from eating." That has been my BIGGEST obstacle. Have lost about 75 lbs and it is still a problem. I did great this Easter though. That was a huge deal for me. I hadn't survived one holiday or occasion since being on LAWL without gaining at least a pound. It's a hard one to overcome, but we can do it... Right? :) As far as feeling like I've got the feeling of staying OP. I don't know if it'll ever be easy. I know that I know how to eat healthier now and make better choices though. Also we should try not to be afraid of slipping we should just tell ourselves we aren't going to. That has been another struggle of mine. I feel like I'm getting better at it though.

Also to those of you have have used knudsens.. did you feel that it worked about the same as the take off? Just curious. I'm already almost done with day one. I'll be interested in seeing what the scale says tomorrow.

Talk to you all later!

Mandy

[bride2bMeg]

Thanks everyone for the warm welcome! I will definitely be seeking as much support as possible as I journey through wedding planning and weight loss... should be fun!

I stayed exactly the same from Friday morning until today at lunch, which I actually am pleased with as I had heavy jeans on then, as well as my period and of course it was in the am... so hopefully when I go back Wednesday afternoon I will have lost weight!!! Wish me luck :-)

[vibrantecho]

Mandy - I've had equal success with the TO juice and with Knudsens...about 5 pounds in a week (2 days TO plan + 5 days OP) each time.

Speaking of...maybe I should do it, too. I'm having trouble getting back into proper "fruit & veggies" mindset, except for the occasional banana. ;) I didn't realize how much I missed bananas until I could have them again! :lol:

Fiona

[mandyd26]

Fiona-What plan are you on I miss bananas too. :) I had been OP for a few weeks and just these last few days, I've been starting to stray. I feel like doing Take off right now will be a good thing for me. Hopefully it'll get me back on track.

[vibrantecho]

I'm on the "new" Free to Live plan - Purple. 1/2 "small" banana counts as 1 fruit...I usually just eat the whole thing and take care of 2 fruits at once. :)

Fiona

[vibrantecho]

Wow, not only are we most likely buying a house this week, my mom and I are also planning a trip to Wisconsin this weekend to look at a horse! And not just any horse - a pregnant one! Woo hoo, two for the price of one! :lol:

Fiona

[peacefuljoy27]

Hi everyone - I'm new here. Please let me know if I'm breaking any rules by posting here. I joined because I'm really frustrated. I started LAWL at the beginning of December weighing in at 306.6 pounds. I had NO IDEA that I had let myself get that heavy. I have since lost 25 pounds. I was really committed to the program the first month, then cheated heavily in January and February. During the past few weeks I have re-committed myself. I started the Free to Live program two weeks ago. The thing that really frustrates me is that last week I did so well and really stuck to the plan, and I only lost 1 measly pound. My counselor said that was normal for people who don't take the supplements, so I bought TriMax and the fat blocker (FB100? I'm too lazy to get the bottle right now) and have been using them since yesterday. My question is, do they work? Did I waste my money? Or will I start seeing 3-4 pound losses/week? It seems like the only weeks that I lose more than 1 pound have been when I've done Take Off. I am going to do it again this week. I don't do the lites, I'm not on birth control or antidepressants, I try to get moderate exercise, and I shouldn't have any bloating or anything until next week. If anyone has any help at all, I'm listening.

Thanks!
Suzanne

[BAS]

Hey Fiona - where in Wisconsin are you going to buy a horse - you lucky thing. I"m lucky too though. I don't own a farm but I live in the country and I'm surrounded by horses - Yae. There are two forties attached to our property and there are always horses in the field. ANother reason I feel comfortable walking with the bears is if the horses don't act funny then it must be okay.

Star - you lucky girl with the new place. I envy you?

Well I"m four pounds down in four days doing the 6WBMO. I'm so happy. Two more pounds and I get my 20 pound aviator which is a blessing too. And most importantly after four tough days my cravings are gone along with hunger pains. I only eat because its time to eat. I was at work yesterday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.- they had meetings after work that lasted that long. I had brought some protein bars and had one for supper and one for my pm snack. Drank lots of water too. Anyway I feel like I missed the whole day. Today is going to be extremely busy too so I'm going in early in hopes that I can come home on time. I want to walk to night and visit my mom.

OH my son's ear infection is still bad (he's 25) they gave him another antibiotic for another week and said if its not better he has to see a specialist who may put a tube in his ear. ANyone know of anyone else who has a different cure for this. THe poor kid can hear him self munching - but he can't hear me talking- has to turn his head.

Well I better get going - Welcome to all the newbies - I hope to catch up with the forum tonight. Hugs

[SyracuseNY]

Yesterday, the first time in months I got comments that people have finally noticed that I've lost weight. First it was my boss, then a guy at the gym. 2 in 1 day. I love when that happens. Makes me want to try harder! I can feel my goal is in sight!

Fiona: Wow, a new house and a family of horses. How exciting! Can you sell the house to yourself and make the commission?

Peaceful: Welcome! I have found that after doing the LAWL Plan for a while, we all get sloppy at weighing and measuring. Maybe that is what has you stuck? Are you drinking all your water? Wow, you lost 25 lbs in that short a time? That's amazing. Maybe you stopped trying so hard when your body was trying to adjust at losing the 25#s? It happens. I mean, we all can't have huge weigh loses each week. I have to say, that a losing 1 pound is a step in the right direction, try not to go crazy with the numbers, as long as your not going up - keep plugging away because it does work if you stick to it. Also, if you were POP last week, and you only lost 1# - you could have gone in this week and been down another 2-3 lbs. If it stick to plan, it will show up on the scale eventually. About the supplements. There was 1 person on this forum named June, she did all the supplements and she said they worked great for her (then she had so many crisis happening in her life, she doesn't post anymore). I don't think anyone else doesn't them on a regular basis. LAWL items are so over-priced that you can cut the price in 1/2 by going and selecting the same items at a place like Wal-Mart. I have purchased the Carb Enders, they didn't hurt me, but can't say they helped either.

Thunder: I've got many trigger foods. Foods that make me want more, after tasting them. I try like mad to avoid them. We can have pizza twice a week as a carb craver.

Well, I'll check back later. Didn't get to read/respond to everyone. Take care, Sy

[Karen]

Good Morning Chicks,
I'm back once again and hopefully there won't be anymore days and days of interuptions with the boss being in town... :mad:
I haven't had a chance to catch up on any of the posts so I'll be starting fresh this morning.
So, congratulations to all the losers and welcome to anyone new to the thread. ;)
I'm back on plan as of the this morning but this time around I'll actually be doing weight watchers (hope it's ok to continue posting here) I did alot of research on the flex plan and think it's something I may actually be able to do. Well atleast I'm really going to try. We will be going to Talledega at the end of the month and I'm going to try and stick with it there as well. I have to make this a way of life and atleast with the flex plan I can still enjoy what I used to call off plan foods. But anyway, wish me luck. :o
I still have my birthday goal of 25 pounds and they recommend only weighing once a week (we'll see how that one goes)... :s: So, I'll be weighing in next Tuesday.. :cool:
Ok Chicks, I'm off today so I'll check back in later... ;)

[MetalChic]

Good Morning Chickies!

Welcome all the NEWBIES!

I went to weigh in yesterday.... :goodscale Down 2lbs!

Now I only have 5lbs left.... :dance: :crossed:

I gotta get back to work :comp:

[Karen]

Congratulations Karen... :cheer:

I had to change my goal. It's now 10% of my weight... :o

[SyracuseNY]

Karen, we are kind of like a credit union on this thread. As long as you know someone and can type, you can belong. :lol: Good Luck on WW. I have been on that before too, so if you need any recipes - I have a few, and the WW board is great too.

MetalChick: Wow, congrats to you! I'm hoping to be in your shoes soon. :cp: :cb: :dance: :hat: :dancer: :sunny: :cheers: :cheer:

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies!

Janelle - very interesting info about the thryoid stuff (my mother had an overactive thyroid, treated with iodine, now she's on thyroid extract so I look out for info on it). I seem to remember that when I signed up on LAWL there were health questions, and that there were a series of blood tests, too. I do think they adjust the plan depending on what the tests say. But, mine came out pretty clean, so I was just on the regular purple plan. NOte - anytime you don't get an answer that makes sense, you can ask for them to check with the nutrionionist -- they do have a central number they can call. And I remember the first two days -- it is tough, but it does make it easier to go on the regular plan. They will try to sell you various packages of lites and supplements. . .And they will give you a few days to think about it.

Mandy - about the juice - I always seemed to make one bottle last the two days - do you dilute it with water - 4oz juice w/ 4oz water? I also have had good results with the Knudsens - the juice semi-fast seems to kick things going again.

And I guess I would make one other comment, Mandy - do you realize how far you've come, that you can have a holiday meal, and get back on program the next day??? That is a TRUE victory. And that has been something LAWL has given me - with a structured eating plan to go back to the next day. And, hopefully, that is something I can carry into maintainence.

Carmen- the other thing I've noticed with us chicks that have LOTS to lose. . . We are going to have these times when it's hard to stay on track. We look at the number of pounds we have to lose and say, it's going to take us another 40 weeks to get there, what difference will one week off plan make? It's hard to focus on the habits that we can change. And sometimes we have to change the habits for ourselves even when the people around us don't change theirs. I am not sure if I'll ever go everywhere with a veggie tray in tow, but at least I can try to make the best choices for me out of what is available. (That is one of my mantras - I DESERVE the BEST choice).

Meg - ah, the clothes! I have my fingers crossed for you!

Suzanne -Welcome - (we have no rules, post early and late!) Sometimes these weeks of small or low scale change can really be frustrating. I don't use the supplements, truthfully, I am not sure what is magic in a vitamin. About the fat blocker - really, in a day of normal LAWL eating, how much fat do you eat?? All this said, Sy gave you some good points - I have to pull out the food scale regularly to see how many oz that chicken breast really is! Also - I really think it would be hard to lose 3 to 4 pounds a week for a long period - did your center promise that to you? What type of exercise do you do?

Beverly - WTG on the 6WBMO success - glad to see you smiling, chickie! Hope your DS gets better soon.

Sy - I am doing the happy dance for you! (loved the credit union comment!)

Karen/RWF - please don't stop posting! Did you join WW, or did you just decide to do it on your own?

Karen/Metalchick! -- WOW! Two pounds gone! That's terrific!

Hugs to all, and a good POP day!

Julie

[Karen]

Julie...I ordered the "weight watchers at home" from there website. I can choose between the core plan and flex plan. Of course I chose the flex plan... :lol:

Sy....I like the "credit union" ;) I'll let you know about the recipes when I get back into cooking for the program. Right now, I'm trying to make it simple... :D I'm glad to know that you have done WW. Now I know where to go with my questions... :p

[Star]

:wave: Morning Chicks.....

Carmen - I can just see you riding around with that veggie tray in your back seat.... :rofl:

Mandy - About your questionable :?: success, to me 75 pounds is a huge success, it's like losing a small person. I guess from another point of view, not being happy til you make goal is admirable becuz I got close to goal (withing 10 pounds at one point) and become too happy :lol: Now I'm back sliding and can't get up...... :mad:

Fiona - Sounds like a fun trip with your mom. Good luck with the horse.

Rusty - WW? Well keep me posted on how that goes for ya. I have done WW several times, it works if you work it......I remember your first goal being 10% of your weight, that would put me within smelling distance of my goal.

Bev - congrats on the loss! How do you like being back on 6WBMO? I came across my plan during the move and quickly put it with my vast collection of diet/exercise stuff. I found my DH's 'before' pictures, the ones they suggest you take prior to going on plan. Well I had 'before' pictures too but ofcourse I distroyed mine :lol:

Hi to all you other chicks.....later

[Mitchypoo]

Haylo~thanks for the hypothyroidism link and info. I have it too. I've been taking medication since about 1991. I never heard about the concern with Soy, but i was one of those who thought it was impossible to lose weight and LAWL has shown me that that is not true. I can't wait til my weightloss makes me have to take a lower dosage. I got a viral infection that attacked my thyroid and so it basically does not work so i produce no thyroid hormone.

It does feel good that people are noticing my weightloss but i've noticed that it's brought up some issues with me too. I was really uncomfortable when it was brought up. I think it'll take getting use to being thin when i get there. Know what i mean?

Fiona~really exciting about the house and the horse! Can't wait to hear all about it.

My 2 cents about the Knudsens juice instead of Take Off, i like the juice, i don't dilute it 1/1, i don't put as much water with it. But it doesn't seem to work like the TO for me.

Congrats to all the losers! :dance: I'll try to post more individually later. Be happy with all your efforts, no matter how big or how small.

[Chklithunder]

Hi Everyone! :wave:

You all are not going to believe this (or maybe you will), but I just spent the last HOUR typing my post, then went to preview it and it disappeared and I got booted from 3FC. Don't quite remember what I said to everyone but I will give it a shot. This is a long one, I will warn you in advance.

Okay, my blues are gone. I want to thank you all again for your encouragement. You're awesome. I have finally caught up with reading all the posts. There are a LOT of new chicks out here. WELCOME TO YOU ALL.

Suzanne - I can totally relate to your plight. Impatience and self doubt are my 2 biggest problems. Losing weight is not an easy undertaking, which we all know. I got off track in part because I was not really seeing the type of results I thought I should be seeing for all of my effort. That way of thinking made it really easy to slip off plan and to stay off for an entire week. Someone made a great point when they said one lb lost is a step in the right direction, and that as long as they know that they are doing the right thing, eventually their hard work will show. AMEN Sister! Suzanne, keep up the great work and please keep sharing your experience.

Karen/RWF - Good luck on WW. My cousin has been doing WW the core since January 5 and she has lost 21 lbs so far. She said it is the easiest program she has ever tried.

MetalChick and Beverly - congratulations on your losses! :dance: Bev - I have been trying to figure out what 6WBMO is since I started posting here, and I still haven't a clue. Please explain?

Sy - Way to go on folk seeing your efforts. That must be the best feeling. I can't wait to get there. Soon...

Fiona - CONGRATS on finding the perfect house for your family. I pray that everything works out exactly the way you want it to. We have only been homeowners for 3 years and so far it has been an awesome experience. GL on the horse hunt. I was kicked by a horse when I was 6 years old, and haven't been near one since. It would be a kick to see one being born though.

Star - I am glad that your move went well. I am also glad you guys weren't the ones who broke the mirror. And about the veggie tray - that really might be the way to go, don't you think? :lol:

Mandy - your DS is a CUTIE PIE! He looks like a little angel. Thanks for your advice, and congratulations on making through Easter without a gain. One day at a time, one holiday at a time. Let's see, the next big holiday for us will be Memorial day. I know DH will be grilling and I know we will have guests dropping by. I should be okay, because I will be sure to have plenty of salads, the prerequisite veggie tray, and some fruits on hand. We shall see!

Julie - you were right on the money with your assessment of my attitude about the amount of weight I have to lose. I have 65 lbs to go (provided I haven't gained - which I probably have). The thought of having so much more to lose is daunting to say the least. I realize also that it is unreasonable of me to expect that others around me would change just because I have committed to this lifestyle change. I have to be strong and stay committed for myself, because no one else can do this for me. I can do this. BABY I'M BACK! :D

OK so tomorrow night is WI. Depending upon what the verdict is, I may be doing the Knudsen's over the weekend...we shall see.

[Star]

Carmen,
When I'm on plan and sometimes when I'm not I always take food to family dinners. My family is from the south and they don't cook 'healthy' by the plan standards (but the food tastes awesome). So I just take something on plan and eat more of that. I've noticed the younger relatives like my 'lighter' additions.

[textjewel]

Carmen, thank you for understanding what I was trying to say - I started off with over 80 pounds to lose, so I'm on the same journey. And truthfully, while I like the LAWL food plan in general, I am not sure I agree with their suggested 2 pound a week schedule - because someweeks I don't lose 2 pounds. . and then I feel like I've failed esp if I've been POP -- and I need to be POSITIVE about changing my habits and losing weight and getting fitter. (this is why one of my goals is to recognize non-scale victories). Also, we are the ones that have to change - if you look at the way a skinny person eats, they don't let other peoples expectations put food in their mouths :?:

BTW, I am glad that you are no longer blue!

Michelle - you also brought up a point - that being thin will have other issues for me and I'll have to learn how to deal with them (hopefully, without food). .

Mandy, Star brought up a good point - you've lost about one THIRD of yourself!

Karen, it used to be in WW that they'd figure about 12 weeks to lose the first 10% - good luck! I like the WW plan in general, just got tired of going to the meetings.

Hugs,
Julie

[Chklithunder]

Star - my parents were both born and raised in SC. That's where a large portion of my family still is. That's where the horse incident occurred as well. So yes, I can relate about the southern cooking. Unless I'm following a recipe, that's really all I know. I try to make more healthy foods for the family during the week, but on Sunday I still have to burn, baby burn or there will be complaints from DH and my DS's. So on Sundays I end up cooking 2 separate meals, one for them and usually a dinner featuring a chicken breast on the Foreman grill for myself.

Julie - I noticed early on that you and I have similar goals. I think your end goal is a lot lower than mine though, and you are well on your way. You seem so well grounded and you always have such good advice for everyone. How long have you been on the program?

[Karen]

Julie...12 weeks to lose the first 10%...Oh no.... :o
I think my main objective is to just get it off this time with a plan I can do...We'll have to see how it goes..I'm more hungry today than usual. Probably because I know I'm back on a plan.... :lol:


If you go to provida.com you can read all about the 6wbmo. It's a hard plan to follow... :s:

[Star]

Rusty - 12 weeks to lose the 10% for you would be 1.7 pounds a week, that isn't too slow ( or are you planning on speed-dieting this time?).

Carmen - I do the same thing, one meal for DH and the George Foreman chicken for me. Somtimes he will eat the GF chicken too, but gets tired of it as often as I eat it.
Also, I agree with you 100% about Julie being grounded and full of _____ oh I mean information.... ;)

[textjewel]

Carmen, thank you - not sure if I'm really that grounded - I started LAWL in early October - I'd had some lifestyle changes and put on too much weight - saw the commercials, and signed up. Then, thank goodness, I found 3FC, which has helped me enormously in figuring out some stuff about this weight loss journey. My weight has gone up and down since I was about 10. Now I'm 46. So what do I really want? What I'd really like is to be able to eat ice cream and cake all day AND to wear size 10's. I guess now I know that's not going to happen :D I really can eat ice cream all day, but not the size 10s. And I'm tired of feeling fat!

If you haven't yet, have you read Thin for Life? There is a separate thread on this book in the Maintainers area. It has lots of good stuff about making the transition between losing weight and maintaining weight loss.

I think one thing that about 3FC that has helped me is that we learn all about peoples lives outside the diet - and how the scale affects them up and down - when it's obvious from reading the posts how wonderful we all are. :o So the scale is just one part of our lives, but it seems to affect everything we do! I celebrate just as much with a scale loss and hate a scale gain as much as anyone. So I come here, and jump a little, or cry a little, and everyone reminds me that it's just water weight, or celebrates along with me! Now, how cool is that?

Julie

[textjewel]

Star - smile when you type that ______. ..

Karen/Rusty - 17 pounds in 12 weeks - if you stick to your points you can do it! Also, make sure you eat your AP points (I know you're still doing that AM exercise, right) - everything I'm reading is suggesting that not eating enough is just as bad as eating too much. . .

About two dishes at one meal - I think that's the way it's going to be for life. . .Now why is it that Women Have To Cook Everything???

[Fashnvictm]

Fashion: Welcome to the board too! Have you ever posted here before as I I don't recall seeing your board name before. If you have, sorry I miss it. How long have you been doing LA? Maybe you posted on the BIOs page and I missed it? I'm just interested in everyone that posts. Hope you get your answers on the soy before you have any adverse reaction.

~Sy~


Thank you! I'm a newbie - but I'm very excited to have found you gals! I went in today for my program explanation and I've already lost 2.8 pounds! Hope this a sign of what's to come. :dizzy:

I'm a 27 year old Texan that has slowly put on 40 pounds over the past 3 years. I think it's partially due to my hypothyroidism and prolactinoma - but partially due to my busy schedule and inability to plan ahead. I'm excited to start the LAWL program - my mom and I both joined last Friday!

Thanks for the welcome. :) And I wil definately reserach more about soy and thyroid...as I'm a semi-vegetarian and eat A LOT of soy products! :^:

[Star]

Fashionvictim,
Where in Texas do you live? That's cool that you and your mom both joined.....Welcome!

[mandyd26]

Hello,
day two of the take off (knudsens) I usually don't have that hard of a time doing this for two days, but this morning I woke up and just felt like eating everything in the house. I lost about 1 pounds yesterday, so that is good.

Julie- I didn't dilute it. It says that 8 oz is one serving, so I just drank 8 oz 4 times a day. So there is a knudsens juice called Semi fast? I'll look for that one next time. I know that I've lost a good amount a weight. It feels great and I can't believe that I've done it. I'll just feel a lot better when I reach my final goal. I want to just make sure that I stick with this until the end. I don't want to give up before I get there, so I guess that is why I don't feel like a success (yet). You are also so right about being able to get back on plan after a holiday meal. This plan truly has worked for me and I'm so much healthier because of it. I have a lot of things that I've learned and accomplished over this past year. Also... thanks for pointing out that I've lost about one third of myself. That is crazy! I have a big german sheppard/collie. He weighs about 75, so I look at him and think I've lost a whole dog! Or x's 3 of my Son.

Peaceful- I used the supplements and bars about the 1st half of my program. At the time I thought they were helping because I was having great success. Well, now that I'm not taking them or using the bars... I'm having the same results. I think it is good to take a multivitamin though, but you don't need to buy them through lawl. Those counselors get commisions just remember that next time they are offering you something. (don't mean to sound negative, but this is just the lesson I learned with lawl)

Carmen and Julie- I was one of the girls that had a lot to lose also. Sometimes when I would get overwhelmed I would just think about the next 10 pounds. I always celebrated when I broke a ten pound barrier.... like 230, 220..... 190,180 etc. Right now I'm working on the 160 milestone. I was at 160.4 or something like that and then I had two bad meals one week. So now I'm back to 162.8. OH how funny!! It doesn't look so bad when I type it out. The past few days I've felt really disouraged because I've felt like I was sooooo far away from 160/159.8. It's not so bad. Anywho, that is what has worked for me.

Metalchic-Congrats to you!!! I hope to be where you are (only 5 lbs left) in about a month. Wish me luck!! I guess I didn't realize before that we had about the same starting weight and have a a similar goal weight. (mine was 155 then 140, and now I settled on 149) Anyway Congrats to you. I have about 13 pounds to lose right now. Do you feel that the last of the weight as been harder to lose or just about the same as before? I'm worried about hitting a plateau. It hasn't happened yet. So I'm crossing my fingers.

I'm getting a major headache it's probably time to eat again. I can't wait until tomorrow. I want some carbs! Or even a tomato or and apple sounds yummy.

Mandy

[Fashnvictm]

Thanks Star! I'm in Ft. Worth and my mom lives in Dallas. :) My name is Marisa and she is Mary. I gave her the web address so hopefully she'll join us!

[Fashnvictm]

By the way - my center didn't have any Take Off drink, so I've been doing the 2 day thing without it. Hoep that is ok!

[Star]

Marisa,
I ask, becuz I lived in Katy (outside Houston) for 16 years and my younest son was born there - gotta love Texans! I have two nephews&wives in Ft Worth area too.
Yes, you can do Take Off without the LA Take Off Drink. You can replace it with the Knudsens Juice from the grocery store or I have heard of people doing it with canaloupe also.
Hope your mom joins us too - the more the merrier.....

[textjewel]

Mandy - I'd guess it's also the TOM monster - I'm facing the same thing - I want chocolate and lots of it. . .I am not sure about the Semi fast -the one I've used is called Simply Natural Breakfast Blend. . . I treat it like TO juice 1/2 c juice and then as much water as I want.

I am also trying to deal with smaller goals - otherwise 50 pounds left to go is a little overwhelming. My next goal is to try to lose 15 pounds by the time I leave for my summer travels (of course, I'm going on hold again, then). I feel like I've been on hold a lot this year.

One thing that I noticed the last time I lost down to the 140's - walk someplace on a street with lots of storefront windows. . .catch a glimpse of yourself - you look like all the rest of the skinny people on the street. I almost didn't recognize myself. Actually I didn't recognize myself. (it was very enlightening!)

Hugs,
Julie

[MetalChic]

Thanks Mandy!

You will make it to your goal eventually....lol

I have noticed that the last of the pounds are taking MUCH longer to come off. I have been leveling out for about 3 weeks and then POW 2lbs gone, but 2lbs in 4 weeks sucks! I spoke to the counselor last week and yesterday about the leveling out. They were supposed to call the dietician last week but didn't, so maybe this week they might get around to it.

I actually run out of weeks last week. I know one thing, I am not paying for more weeks when I have been leveling out alot, and they didn't do anything about it. Actually, I have done everything they have told me. I have stayed on plan, and when I started the manager told me that they would continue to work with me until I lost the weight as long as I did what they said. So I don't think I should pay more. Not to mention the manager calculated my weightloss weeks incorrectly where I was 5 weeks short of my 90lb goal from the very beginning.

Anyways, everyone GOOD LUCK!

[MetalChic]

Oh, I almost forgot.

I have NEVER used the Take Off, FB500, or the TRIMAX. When I did the medical questionaire, they determined that I couldn't do any of them. I have had an ulcer and high blood pressure. Although, my blood pressure is normal now they are not talking me into buying that expensive stuff.

I don't get pressured about the products; I don't even do the LA Lites at all. The most they might ask me is "Do you need anything today?"

I just eat according to the plan they gave me. I am on a modified purple plan. I get to have PP1/2, VVVVV, F, SS, and 12oz dairy or 3oz reduced-fat cheese (I don't drink milk or eat yogurt).

I also take birth control pills and an anti-anxiety/depression medication. They were also concerned about me losing the weight due to these medications. So far I haven't noticed any restraints due to my medications. I struggle real bad right before TOM... ugh-WATER WEIGHT GAIN!

By the way, someone was asking me about the new Gold Plan. Does anybody have the information that I can give her?

Thanks! Later!

[Star]

Just went to the Harley Store window shopping on my lunch hour. This helmet sticker caught my eye:

Eat right, stay fit, DIE ANYWAY!


Ofcourse I had to buy it.... :devil:

It's 67 and sunny here, hence trip to Harley Store.....

[textjewel]

Star that sounds like it was written with you in mind!

Karen - no Fruits? I got this thing called a Luau bowl of fruit salad today - it was too expensive, but looked terrific (it does taste good) melon, strawberries, sliced kiwi, blueberries - had it with yogurt and a few almonds (for fat). . YUM. Is that the purple plus plan? Sorry - can't help you out with gold. . Sounds like you have a really good center. I'm surprised that they didn't move you to gold as you got closer to goal. I can see that you're going to be on one of those commercials and we can say we knew you when!

[Star]

Julie,

Yes it does, but the 'eat right' part is alittle iffy right now.....
I'm outta here for today - check back tomorrow.....
Hugs...

[MetalChic]

Julie, I do eat one fruit a day. I don't like fruit all that much and it was impossible for me to get three in a day, so they changed it and gave me an extra veggie and dairy. They modified my plan because I am very picky about what I eat, and I don't do the LA Lites.

They have also told me that Purple would be the lowest plan that I would go because I don't eat the LA Lites.

[textjewel]

Amazing! (I never knew they would do that) I have a hard time getting in the fruit, too - so I usually just make sure I get in the veg - do you get in a fat somewhere? Are you in the new plan?

[MetalChic]

Julie,

I usually either get in my fat with butter, margarine, light mayo, olive oil, or peanuts (since I went to the new plan). I haven't ate any black olives yet, but I can't wait to eat a pizza with some..mmmmmm.. GOOD! I only get one fat. :hun:

The counselor told me that the last week of stabilization you get three fats a day :cp: I can't wait!

[textjewel]

Yeah, I've been using nuts too, usually almonds. . .

What other nuggets of info did they give you about stabilization?

[MetalChic]

The counselor that I had is on maintenance now, and I think that is why he told me anything at all.

He just teased me with the fats.....

But, previously one of the other counselors said that they introduce more condiments. This was also before the new "Free to Live" plan, so I am not sure if that is still true.

[textjewel]

The only thing I heard about maintainence was that it would be more food! Well, yes.. .

Karen - are you exercising at all?

[mandyd26]

Metalchic-Sounds like you have a wonderful center! I am on the free to live gold plan. What kind of info do you want? Here is the basics PP VVV FFF SS 1dairy (now it's 2oz instead of 1oz) 1fat 2lalites (I use string cheese or a pria bar). If you need more info just let me know. I'd be happy to share all that I have.

I don't think you should have to buy more weeks either. I wouldn't! If you have to just have them put your file on hold until you are ready for maintenance. Also how long have you been doing LAWL? It's been about a year overall for me, but I'm only in week 42 or so. I had them put me on hold for a few months. I took a break and tried ww then ended up coming back.

Star- LOVE the sticker. :)

Julie-You're right it probably is that TOM monster. Luckily I pushed through and am making it through day two of take off. I'm not even cranky! (yet).

Also, I think maintenance has a lot more choices and bigger portions. I bought it off line a while back and that is what I remember seeing. I had it saved in my e-mail, but lost it when I had some problems with my computer.

Talk to you later!

Mandy

[mandyd26]

One thing that I noticed the last time I lost down to the 140's - walk someplace on a street with lots of storefront windows. . .catch a glimpse of yourself - you look like all the rest of the skinny people on the street. I almost didn't recognize myself. Actually I didn't recognize myself. (it was very enlightening!)

I've also been noticing this on those servaliance (sp?) cameras at banks and gas stations. I'm like... "that can't really be me". I been looking at myself in the mall windows also. It's great to feel like I look like my old self again. One other thing is that when I see pictures of myself I'm pleasantly surpirsed at how much thinner I look. I don't always feel that way when I look at myself in my mirror at home. What is funny to me is that those very things that make me feel better now are what made me realize how overweight I was before. I felt like the same old me when I looked in the mirror, but when I would see pictures or my reflection in a store window it caught me off guard.

Later

Mandy

[mandyd26]

ok can you tell that I'm lonely. :) Anyway, I was just wondering if anyone else is from the West Coast? I think I'm 3 hours behind most of you, so after you guys get done posting for the day I feel lonely. :(

[haylo921]

Hello everyone, well I have survived the Two-day take off. I went to do my program explnation today and found out that I had lost about 2 pounds. I have to say that was pretty good.
Tomorrow starts the real fun! Of course they gave me a bunch of samples, of the bars and some other stuff, I know the Sales pitch is coming so I sure they will be suprised when I continue to tell them that I am not interested so much in the bars, but we will see.

To everyone who is going to do WW, I have done that flex plan it is good and it seems like you might have more flexibility, just be careful, I often found myself not eating balanced only because I love carbs! and I would find any way and every way to eat them in abundance.

Mandy: so you don't feel lonley I decided to post something after you! I check my email pretty late, so I am just like you, except I don't live in the West Coast.

Fashnvictm: I did some more research on the soy thing. It seems pretty controversial. I did ask the center about the La lites, they said they were going to ask a nutritionist. The girl at the center, told me that there were several people with hypothyroidism on the program who use the la lites, and that they have not had any problems. Are you using them? If so have you been okay?

[haylo921]

BAS/Beverly: I am not sure that there is any other alternative to putting tubes in the ear. I am not a specialist, but I am a speech therapist and know a little bit about ears. If I am remembering correctly, a tube in put in the ear in the cases of sever infections. I believe, that sometimes there is usually a fluid build up behid the ear drum and it is not able to drain. The purpose of the tube is to allow the infection to drain. I know that antibiotics are usually the first way to get rid of ear infections, but sometimes they do not work, so the result is putting in a tube. This is very common in children. The tubes fall out on their own after I think 6 weeks. I think that if that is what the doctor suggest it might be best, after all severe ear infections left untreated can cause hearing loss, especially if ear infections are common in the person.

Mandy: I was noticing that you said you used string cheese as a replacement for the la lites. Is that all, do you just eat a string cheese instead of the la lite?

[BAS]

Good Morning Haylo and thanks for the advice - Doctor says to try the antibiotics one more time and we will first. Then we will follow through with the specialist - if he weren't so dam stubborn with his bad bad cold this never would of happen - maybe he'll listen to his dear ole mom now.

I miss being on the board during the day- you guys have soooooo much fun and I really clicked on what Julie said. That our life should not revolve around how much we weigh - but thats so hard. I actually choose my clothes, my foods, places I go because of what I weigh. Sad sometimes.

It was sooooooooo windy here last night that it took every thing I had to walk towards the wind without blowing over :dizzy: I think it was a good work out because I was wiped out and relieved when I got home.

Star - I really like being back on 6WBMO - Its a tough diet but because it works for me I"m gonna stick it out for a long while I hope. I feel great - my clothes feel so much better already - this is for me right now. I found some good high protein bars so every other day I"m having one - its my treat sort of cause I miss the Luna bars.

WOw - times just a going- its gonna storm shortly and want to be at work before it does. Have a great day everyone- have fun here.

Think Happy Thoughts!

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies!

Haylo - congrats on surviving TO -AND- being down two pounds. That is AWESOME!

Mandy - that was the point that I was trying to make -it's something about not looking at ourselves critically (as I ususally do in a home mirror). . . I think part of the process is to make that mental shift - give ourselves credit for changing ourselves to be more like the way we would like to be! And those glimpses show us how close we've come.

Beverly - I guess I would say that all of us choose what we wear based on what we weigh and the way we want the world to view us. No matter what we weigh. And at some point, we have to choose what we eat based on how we want to feel and what we weigh. Because, what we eat does affect our bodies - has to. And, I also agree that the what I weigh does affect where I go, and that is a hard thing to change. But it is worth it, and it does get easier in time. The one thing I have not been able to face are things that show my legs - shorts, capri's, a bathing suit. That is the goal for the summer - my friend in Dubai put her foot down - I have to have a suit. It is a hard thing to do, but truly, do the people who look down on us because we are carrying extra weight really matter?

And, I'm glad that you are getting something out of the 6WBMO, and feel more control.

Hugs to all, and skinny vibes!

Julie

[Star]

Morning Chicks!
Just a quick hello and I have to do some 'work.' As you know, that is not my favorite part of my job.....
Julie - Good for you, getting a new bathing suit. You deserve that and shorts and capri's! I have a couple wrap around coverups for my suit and I really like them since I carry (more than I want) some weight in my thighs. One wrap is short and one is long. Geez if you had time prior to your trip you should just come to MI. I could take you to our beach, where you would see women and think "Did they look in the mirror?" Another place I would take you would be to a biker rally....the old biker babes in leather and halter tops that outweigh all of us (put together) would have you feeling pretty foxy! But I agree, we do need to change the way we think about ourselves. Our weight is only a number - like age........
Okay I'll be back later....

[Karen]

Morning Chicks,
Just a quick hello. I'm working with the manager today so if I get a chance later, I'll be back... :dizzy:

[MetalChic]

Good Morning Chickies!

Julie, I have not been exercising. I work full-time and until recently part-time too. I go to school at night; I graduate with my degree next month! And, I have two kids, plus my fiance' has two kids. Needless to say, I am a very busy woman; and I haven't found the time to get to exercise.

BTW, I love buying new clothes now that I have lost weight! I am trying to hold off until I loose the last 5lbs to go buy my summer clothes. I am so bad about waiting to buy new clothes that today I have on a pair of 10s, and I have them rolled up in the waist so they don't fall off.......

I haven't been the size I am right now since before I got pregnant with my daughter in 1990. She will be 14 in August. Strangely enough, I left the hospital after having my son weighing less (126) than I did before the pregnancy (135). He will be 16 in November.

Mandy, I have been going to LAWL for exactly a year on this past Monday. I didn't even know they would put you on hold. I will have to ask if they insist on my buying more weeks. I know if I follow the plan for awhile longer that I can loose the last 5lbs. My weight loss has just slowed down so much here lately. One of the counselors also told me that you still loose weight in stabilization, so we will see what they come up with when I go back to weigh in. As for the Gold Plan, what are the portion sizes for beef, chicken, fish, pizza, and etc.? I think some of them are different on Gold than Purple.

And, about the time zone, I am on EST. I'm all the way on the East Coast in North Carolina.

It is supposed to be 82 degrees today! :dancer:

Anyways, Have a great on plan day!

[Mitchypoo]

Good morning all! :wave:

I was doing very well being POP last night and then i ended up staying late at work, boss needed something right when i was leaving that took over a half hour, then i was running late for my support group, so i stopped and ate quick. So how do you prepare for that? Maybe i should have ate after the meeting? But then it'd be late, like after 8:45. Oh well, today is another day.

I have an interview tonight for a pt time at that Knit Cafe, it's a dream job, but not sure how it'll work out. It's a little far for me and it has to be worth my while. It's an ideal job, but i need to make money too. Going to take some of my work to show them.

[mrsSmiley]

Good Morning All!!

I'm sorry I haven't posted in a couple of days and have spent the last 45 min reading. Boy, ya'll are a talkative group. LOL Thank you for all the welcomes and the kind words.

I went to WI yesterday and was, get this UP 0.1 lb! *sigh* :( I was disappointed but this week is my TOM so I'm not surprised. I sprung my questions on that poor girl and made her a nervous wreck. I asked couldn't she give me some guidelines like how they categorize their food groups like, so many calories is a protein, so many is a starch, etc.. Like I said before in my own opinion there is no methed for their madness. In one place a HB bun is a starch, then on the CC it's a protein. :yikes: I am a nurse and teach portions and food groups all day most days but everything I know is wrong with LA. Like ham is not listed on the program yet it's in the cookbook. I told her I had 4 excellent low fat cookbooks and I could create more recipes if they could give me some information. Her reply was that I needed to stick to the program in my red book and not try to "combine foods". Then because of my weight gain, she looked at my diary, and I had made Veg beef soup one night. She asked me how I made it. I told her with 1 lb very lean gd meat, lots fresh veggies and two small potatoes and a 1/2 cup corn but I made a 5 qt pot of it. Then she asked me what liquid I used. I told her some water and a large container of low fat low sodium beef broth. She took my red book and thumbed through it and told me I couldn't have it cause I couldn't have beef broth and that's why I had gained weight. *sigh* Anyway, I told her I had talked with another counselor last week and she told me which brand to buy and plus the broths are in the cookbook. Well, I think I made her mad, cause, she wanted to know WHICH counselor I talked to and exactly HOW I was to count the broth. UGH!!!!!!!!!!! I left so frustrated and will probably not ever let her be my counselor again. Oh, and I asked her how long she had been doing the plan and she told me she never had and that she had just finished her trained earlier this year and knew what she was talking about. As the kids say, "Well, DUH!!" I don't think so!

I would love to address each of you directly but I have to get to work. Hope everyone has a GREAT OP day!!!!

[vibrantecho]

Smiley - your post made me :lol: and :rolleyes: Sometimes these counselors just talk nonsense. They unfortunately really have no "nutrition" training, and I'm sure they'd NEVER let you actually talk personally with one of their sacred nutritionists! :lol: Good luck, though...!

Michele - good luck with the job, and oh well about the food - we do the best we can do, right?

Hey everyone else!

Fiona

[MetalChic]

Smiley,

I like the counselors that have been on the plan, they understand much more than the ones that haven't. All of the counselors at my center right now have been or are on the plan now. There is a beef broth that is in the cookbook that is very low sodium. I think it is Herford or something like that. I finally found it and it is a powder and not in a can. I noticed that even the low sodium beef/chicken broth in the cans are loaded with sodium. It is possible that the extra sodium made you gain some water weight. I wouldn't blame the entire thing on it like the girl did though. I can tell a difference when I consume too much sodium. And, I usually get my TOM water weight gain for 3 weeks, then after TOM it's gone for a week, then starts all over again. Men have it so easy.....

An idea for making your own combinations, try using full portion sizes in your meals. For instance, 8 oz chicken breast, 1/2 cup broccoli, 6 baby carrots, 1/4 cup skim milk, 1/2 oz reduced-fat cheese-for a chicken vegetable casserole. Of course, you will probably have to adjust for additonal family members, but that is the basic idea.

[Chklithunder]

Hi Everyone.

Two whole days POP for me! Tonight is my first WI after my indiscrepancies. No matter what I am not going to flip out about whatever I have gained, because I earned it.

Anyway, GL to you all today.

Carm

[SyracuseNY]

Smiley: LOL! I can't believe they made such a big deal and such an investigation with your diary when you were only up 01. You could have sneezed and been down 0.1. Did you tell her that it was close to TOM because if it was me, I would have been up 2-3 lbs - I know it's frustrating, but don't allow yourself to use it as a free for all (food wise) (I do that sometimes when I'm upset that I'm not down when I've been POP). Some counselors are impossible to please (and maybe it was her TOM and she was PMSing :lol: ). I agree with you on the portions and food combinations but you will never get a straight answer. The one that is crazy for me, is why can I have 6 ozs of chicken and only 1/2 cup of 1% cottage cheese as a P?

Too tell you the truth, I ask questions all the time and it works out for me because when I leave there, their heads are spinning and they rarely remember to ask me to purchase anything. LOL! :s:

[vibrantecho]

Okay this is cool...I've been noticing the last few days that my bras haven't been fitting "right" - they're being kinda slidy around my middle, I actually have a little irritated spot on my right side where the underwire was rubbing...took me till just now to figure out that the problem is THEY'RE ALL TOO BIG!!! I wish I had an actual ribcage measurement from when I started so that I could compare, but it's the only thing I can think of. Neat!!!

Fiona

[Mitchypoo]

Fiona, you kind of do have a measurement, if your bra is a 38" lets say, that means on the first connection it's suppose to be 38", and maybe 2-3 inches if you latched it on the last connection it'd be 40-41", So you can measure yourself around, under your boobs and that's your size. Make any sense?

[iheartsushi]

I just found this site! YEA!

Smiley: When I first joined LAWL the counselors (one in particular) were a little cold and didn't really seem to care. After a few snide comments about my weight loss from one of my counselors I decided to take some action. I went on their website and e-mailed customer service and let them know what was going on at my center. That same day I got a phone call from the district manager for my area. She personally went through things with me and answered all of my questions. And of course had some lame excuses why my center manager was acting the way she was. The next time I went for WI everyone was very "accomodating".

I hate to stir things up but I had forked over what was ALOT of money for me (and almost everyone I know). That being said, don't be afraid to ask questions, don't take their sales pitch crap, let them know up front that your not interested in the supplements/LA lites/Meal Replacements etc. You are paying for their "expertise". If you don't feel like your getting the customer service you should then let them know.

Ok, I'm stepping down from my soapbox now, it's time for my LA Lite LOL :dizzy:

[textjewel]

Hi again, chicks!

Karen, I am with you about buying new clothes - I am still wearing 18's which I am sure that don't add anything to my looks - I have some 16s that fit - I am really trying hard to wait until next month before I buy anything new. I have read also for people in other plans that they continued to lose weight once the portions were increased, so that is something to look forward to! You definately sound like a very busy chick and I'm impressed that you've done so well!

Michelle - good luck with the Knit Cafe - that sounds so cool! About eating on the run - what options did you have - was it only fast food? About eating at 8:45 - personally, I find that really tough - I get so hungry it sends me into a tailspin.

Smiley - you sound like me 6 months ago! Good for you for going armed with all your questions (I used to stick post it notes on the guide so I could remember). However, about the beef and chicken broth - the only kind they recommend, and I think it's only in the cookbook, not in the guide - is the HerbOx low sodium - it comes in packets or in loose granules. So show THAT to the counselor next time. And I can't believe that she gave you a hard time for being up only 1/10 of a pound! Also, in the cookbook, there are sections at the end of some of the ethnic sections that give OTHER selections. However, the cookbook I have is from the older plan and does not have quite the right portion sizes. Just think, after a few weeks you can start creating your own LAWL cookbook. I'm sure that you'll have a ready made audience! The only other advice is what is probably 'teenager' - do what you want, but lie to them!

Carmen, nice to see you smiling again! Good luck at WI today!

Fiona - I've been noticing that about my um, undergarments, too. . .

Hugs to all!
Julie

[mandyd26]

Good Morning!

Metalchic- First off that is so great that you are the same size that you were in 1990. That is so great! I love buying clothes now too. It's so much fun. I remember when I switched from not thinking I looked good in anything to wanting to try everything on and wishing I could buy it all. It's a great feeling. I can't wait until I'm having to roll up my 10's. I can fit in to some 8's and a crazy size 6 (I think the person that sized that pair was on drugs!), but my 10's still fit just perfect. So we have both been on the plan about the same amount of time. I started on March 29 2004. I wish I would have stuck with it all of the time, so I could be where you are right now, but I've only hopefully got about 6 1/2 more weeks.

Here are some potions sizes
Beef: 4oz
Chicken: 6oz
Salmon 4oz
Shrimp 5 oz
Tuna (fresh) 5 oz
Tuna (canned, drained): low sodium or regular 6 oz
Tuna (in pouch, water packed) low sodium or regular 3oz
Turkey: 5 oz
Turkey lunch meat low fat, low sodium, thin, fresh sliced: 6 slices
Pork: 5 oz
Lobster: 5 oz
Eggs, large, whole: 2 (up to 6 per week)
Egg whites: 4
Egg beaters, plain: 1/2 cup
Egg substitute, plain: 1/2 cup
Halibut: 5 oz

Ice Cream, nonfat, NSA: 1/2 cup
Tortillia 6 inch: 1/2
Pasta (cooked): 1/3 cup
Oatmeal plain: 1/2 cup
light bread: 1 slice

Pizza (carb cravers)
1 plain or veggie slice (mushroom broccoli, or spinach), pizza shop style; 7-inch long by 6-inch crust (1 slice of a large 14-inch pizza);pat oil

Hope that helps. If you need anything else just let me know.

Fiona-Congrats! It's always great to notice when your clothes start getting too big.

Haylo-Thanks for trying to make me feel beter. :) Also congrats on the 2 pounds! I just did take off again and lost 2 pounds also. It's going to be great to eat some "real" food again today. Also, just stick to your guns about the la lites. My center was really good about sucking me in to buying them. Looking back I realize that they really played on my emotions. I didn't really get that they were optional. I just thought if I want to lose this weight I have to buy these bars. Yes I usually just have string cheese in place of a lite. I also buy protein bars (I buy the pria ones) and eat them every now and again. I bought the lites in bulk and used them for the first half of my program. (I bought them for the whole program, but ended up selling them for extra cash) Now that I'm not using them, I'm still losing at the same rate I was before.

Mitchypoo- good luck at the interview. I hope it works out for you.

I will talk to you chickies later!

Mandy

[textjewel]

Iheartsushi -Welcome! Glad that you found us! You are right, the $$$ are alot for anyone I think! So often we forget that we really can complain - I never thought about contacting them via the website. So often we just vote with our feet, and leave the program (and lose the money) instead of doing something about it.

Julie

[Star]

Fiona-
You just made me laugh :rofl: You can measure your success by a rash under your boob......... :o I'm hoping for the rash ;)

[textjewel]

Fiona - that's the kind of non-scale victory I'm talking about!! (hope the rash gets better, though!)

[vibrantecho]

It's just a little owie - more like a pimple than a rash. And the bra I'm wearing today doesn't rub it...but keeps sliding up in the back because I can't get it tight enough. DARN, HUH??? :lol:

Fiona

[Fashnvictm]

Hi everyone! Happy Wednesday!

[Star]

Fiona - Honey this is good practice for when you get older. That's when you can't get em high enuf no matter how tight the dang thing is......Also, you wouldn't know if you had a pimple/rash or not....Thank God you have a good sense of humor........

[Chklithunder]

Being a very well endowed chickie, I have that problem now and I am only 34! Mine went south about 2 years ago. Now, the only bras that seem to help me are the ones from Lane Bryant and they cost about $35 EACH! I hope mine shrink as I lose.

[textjewel]

You guys are cracking me up! I can't imagine anyone over 180 that's not well endowed! But, Fiona, I too, know the feeling of sort of 'floating' in a bra - but not sure if it's that I'm getting thinner, or if they're getting stretched out . ..

Carmen - EEEK ---35$$!!!

[Fashnvictm]

<------- no boobs

[Fashnvictm]

Question - can someone explain the different color plans? Do they change as you lose? Does your counselor pick a color that is best suited for your lifestyle? I'm confused!

[textjewel]

Fashion - as near as I can tell, the plan seems to be based on how much you weigh, how much you exercise and if you are a diabetic or something. I started on purple at 228. I'll be on purple until I'm at 183, then on gold until I reach goal. That's without exercise - I think Jen (she checks in occasionally) is on Red, because she works out 5x a week - I think if you want to go below 130 they put you on green, which is next to no food at all. . .

Did they start you on gold or purple?

Julie

[Fashnvictm]

Thanks for the info, Julie! I'm on Gold - they never told me anything about other colors. I'll go in on Friday and ask. I feel like my center isn't filling me in on all the "ins and outs" of the program! Or maybe I'm just nosey? :p

[vibrantecho]

Julie - your comment made me laugh because I told DH at lunch about my bra being too big and his first response was ":( Bye boobies!" and I was like, no, down around the band part, and HE says, "ah, getting stretched out?" I almost slugged him before calmly replying, "No, you idiot, I'M SHRINKING." LOL! :rofl:

Fashnvictim - There is some secret LAWL formula that they use based on your starting weight and how much weight you want to lose - I think anyone that has more than about 30 pounds to lose goes on Purple, at about the halfway point they switch you to Gold which has slightly smaller protein sizes and I think maybe one less fruit? Then when you get to the last 5 pounds or so they may try to put you on Green, which is not enough food to keep a rabbit alive :lol: and I don't know anyone who has stayed on Green all the way to maintenance. Then there are the "Special" plans for people who either can't/won't do the Lites, or exercise a lot, or work swing shifts, etc. Hope that helps!

Fiona

[Fashnvictm]

A-ha! Thanks for the info. :D

[haylo921]

Hello Everyone,
Yeah today I got to eat real food!

Question????? What do they mean by low-sodium, lunch meat. I went to the store and was not sure exactly what low sodium meant. I found one by oscar meyer that was deli thin 6 slices for 570 mg (smoked turkey breast). Is that still to high, I couldn't find anything lower??????

Question???? What happens if you have eaten all your foods on plan and you are still hungry? Do you continue eating, something else? I was just wondering because sometimes I have those days when I feel like no matter what I need more food.

Fashnvictm: I am new to the program also, they put me on the red plan because I told them that I exercise 5 times a week. When I told the counselor that sometime I do less then that she said, I needed to be sure because if it was less, than I would be on another plan. I told her it was always closer to 5x. I don't know if you are being nosey but I am the same way. I want to know everything about everything.

[Fashnvictm]

Yay Haylo! I'm glad I'm not the only one... :) PS - I also have the question about what to do if you eat the foods on the plan but are still hungry!

[mandyd26]

If I'm still hungry I snack on baby carrots. I also try drinking water. Sometimes if I'm having a bad day and it's late enough at night.. I just go to bed. Also it will get better. I was pretty hungry the first week or two, but then my body adjusted and I was ok with the portions. Still baby carrots are great!

Mandy

[textjewel]

I'll be honest -- I was hungry on and off the first couple of weeks, but it also was partly TOM. There is no LAWL concept of saved foods from one day to the next - or stealing from tomorrow for today. I just tried to distract myself, drink tea, coffee, water, sometimes soda fills me up with the bubbles.

About the low sodium - not sure, since I don't buy it - but it's probably labeled low sodium? Look at what the healthy choice brand says? Or if you want to get stuff from the deli counter, you can probably just get roasted turkey breast -not smoked.

Haylo & fashion - I had loads of questions when I joined - ask away - you'll probably find someone here has an idea at least.

Julie

[textjewel]

Oh,and Fashion, they don't tell you more than they think you need to know at any one time - they don't want to confuse us ;-)

But, I've also found through out the months that if I ask they'll tell me. But I have to know what to ask.

[haylo921]

Hello guys,

Textjewel and Mandy thanks for the tips on snacking.

I have another quick question? Do you have to take a carb enders supplement, if you want a carb cravers meal, or is that just something they suggest to take.

[danbasi]

Hi guys - I just started LAWL yesterday with the purple plan. Is anyone on that plan and if so, are you eating the LA Lites? I was told two different things by the counselors and now I'm trying to figure out which is correct. I'm not doing the LA lights and was told by one counselor to substitute protiens for the LA lights and the other one said the purple meal plan already includes additional foods to replace the LA Lights.

It's great that this website is out there. I need the support.

Thanks

[BAS]

Whats all this talk about boobs?

You guys are so dang funny. I"m happy to say I still have nice full perky boobs - size 36 C. WHOO HOO. The reason is probably because I have always worn a good bra day and night. I have supported them always (lol) Okay lets get serious here.

Had a much better day today then the last two. My hubby said I was actually cussing in my sleep last night saying "Get the XX%&*$()#@ out of my office."
Yikes huh. IT was a zoo and this one person kept talking and talking and I was trying to meet a deadline and I didn't care what he had to say - I didn't even look at him but he kept on and on and on. I'm a pretty patient girl but underneath - well I must of exploded in my sleep . No wonder I felt so much better. Actually when that same person came in today I had to chuckle to myself - thinking of what I said in my vocal dreams (Lol)

If you want to see what I look like you can go to www.crandon.k12.wi.us - My cheeks are pretty red - but not usually. Must of been the lighting.
and look under District Office. - There I am ! And thats what I look like. THe other gal is the one that can eat and eat and eat and is rail thin - I know I know not normal. (Lol)

Today is WEdnesday - no exercise night (freebie) - Enjoying it too. I did laundry, baked a scrumptulous dessert, did dishes, etc etc. Now I"m just relaxing for a bit.

Did pretty good today but unfortunately had to sample the dessert I made and of course the sample had to be cut straighter and straighter so it looked nice. By the time I got done it was about 2 inches by 2 inches - and dang I only wanted a taste. Well at least it wasn't 4 inches by 4 or worse - right? Now don't tell me thats okay - tell me to knock it off - will ya :rollpin: or You'll do that!

Okay I"m gonna get going since I got my two cents in about boobs (Lol). :o You guys are soooooooooooooooo funny!!!!!

Happy Thoughts!!!!!!

[mandyd26]

danbasi-Welcome to LAWL and this site. I'm new to this site, but I've been doing lawl for about a year. I started on the purple plan. I'm pretty sure that if you aren't taking the lites you should substitute them with a protein (not a full serving though). So I would go with what the first counselor told you. I started off by using the lites and now I don't. I either substitute string cheese or another type of protein bar from the grocery store. I think it's wonderful that this site exists also. I've only been posting for a little under a week now, but it has already helped me out so much.

Haylo-With the new free to live plan they say you don't have to take the carb ender supplements with the carb craver meals. I don't think you ever actually had to, but of course I bought into it for most of my program. They now say that they are just suggested. I though have found that I don't lose as much weight when doing the carb craver meals, so I try to just limit them to 1 or 2 times a week. Also make sure to drink a lot of water after those meals.

Talk to you all later!

Mandy

[mandyd26]

Beverly-You look every bit as thin as the other ladies in those pictures. You're a very pretty lady! I imagined you to look like a mountain woman, with all of your bear stories. :) Also about the boobs. I wish I had your luck! I'm 26 and am already feeling like saggy sue. I now wear a 36/34 DD. They were around 40 DDD at my highest weight. Anyway, now I would say they are still large, but I feel sort of normal. They are not perky though and I don't think they ever will be again. I thought this happened later in life! Oh well. :)

I have a question for everyone. I'm getting a little worried about myself and wonder if anyone else ever feels like this. I'm starting to feel guilty for even eating OP. I made a taco salad today (totally OP) and felt like I shouldn't be eating it. I also sometimes think it's ok to skip a fruit because that is less calories. I know this is totally irrational and that I need to eat balanced and not starve myself. (don't worry I'm not doing that) but I've been having this challenge lately. I guess I'm either totally crazy paranoid about eating OP or I'm cheating and gaining weight. Where is the happy medium? I think this has developed recently the closer I get to my goal the crazier I get.

Anyway, that is all for now. Talk to you all later.

Mandy

[haylo921]

danbasi: Welcome to LAWL. I am not on the purple plan, I am on the red plan, but from what I understand it seems like there would be a substitution for the LA Lites. I know when I went in to ask them question about it, they said that there was substituion for those people who can not eat them for whatever reason. I agree with Mandy I don't think that any plans have additional food that would replace them.

[Fashnvictm]

Hi everyone. I need some good advice before I do something rash.

As many of you know, my mom and I signed up with LAWL last Friday. My mom is a former Veteran with many health problems, so the center needed to get doctors approval before beginning her program. Since my mom is a veteran, her doctor works at the VA. Monday, when I had my appointment, I was told to relay a message to my mom that said that the center cannot get through the maze of government phone tag to actually speak with her doctor. They left messages but the doctor was not calling back. Keep in mind - they told me to tell her this.

I told my mom and she called them back on Tuesday with a direct humber for the doc. She did not hear a word from them on Tuesday. Today by noon I was starting to get angry about it. I contacted the center and asked them kindly to PLEASE call her doctor today so she can begin her program. They said they would and neither my mom or I heard a peep out of them for the rest of the day - nto a callback confirming that they spoke with the doc, not a callback statig that they left a message - nothing!

Today came and went and no one contacted my mom to let her know what is going on. Actually, all communication has been initiated by us - no one bothered to call my mom AT ALL. EVER.

Now, I'm very upset by all this as it is apparent that they do not care one bit for our feelings. My mom is feeling discouraged, unloved and unwelcome by their lack of support during this interim period.

It is my opinion that she paid a large sum of money to join and the least they can do is keep her updated on their attemps to contact her doctor. They have done nothing. Had it not been for my phone calls to the center she would still be in the dark.

So, tomorrow is Thursday and I plan on calling the center first thing and giving them a huge piece of my mind. They are treating her very unprofessionally and rudely by not giving her the respect of just keeping her informed.

I plan on sending a letter via email to the corporate office this evening. It will be more eloquent....I'm just uber mad right now. and - quite frankly - I feel badly for my mom! She was so very excited to start the program and I am shocked, appalled and dismayed at their unprofessional and UNCARING behavior.

Am I wrong for this? Help!!! Any thoughts?

[Fashnvictm]

By the way - Beverly! You are gorgeous!!! :)

[SyracuseNY]

Bev: You are beautiful! I love seeing what everyone looks like. I had the same image in my head (like Mandy) of what you looked like by the bear stories. LOL!

danbasi: Welcome!

Fashion: IMHO, if I was your Mom, I would go to the VA or give her doctor a call and ask that they give her or send her (or fax to LAWL) a note of authorization. I'm sure she would have better luck at getting the authorization than LAWL would. Or, I would go to LA and demand my money back, that will surely get their attention! Sometimes we have to take the bull by the horn and handle things on our own. I guess I would sent the email to the LAWL website too. I'm too stubborn to allow things (like others peoples lack of concern) to get in my way when I set my mind at doing something, and when my money is involved - WATCH OUT! Good Luck and let us know how you/Mom make out.

Mandy, I agree that veggies would be the thing to eat if all your food is gone for the day. In the summer months when they are fresh, I use radishes as my filler in the evenings. Carrots are a great choice (just remember that carrots are the veggies that we should have the smallest amount of when it's out veggie choice). I think that something 'green' would be a better choice.

Haylo: I know that locally Oscar Myer has some ham that is labled "low sodium". As far as the deli counter, I'm sure if you ask - they can tell you if they have something that is low in sodium. Locally, we have Plainville Turkey - No Salt coldcuts in our deli. Tastes just like fresh turkey that I cooked myself (but I can buy it by the 1/4 lb). I know that LA will insist that you take Carb Enders when you choose a Carb Craver meal (especially if you happen to gain that day). My sister who has made her goal never used any supplements and would have Carb Cravers at least twice a week. Enjoy! If you think you need them, purchase them at WalMart or anyplace else but LA as you can get them for 1/2 the price. And, of course - expect LA to tell you that those don't work and you should be using theirs. You know the usual sale/commission type talk.

Another way to handle being out of food for the day and still hungry. Choose different proteins. I think the chicken fills me up the best and that is the main reason why I make that choice. When I eat fish, I'm hungry a hour later. Carb Cravers like pasta make me hungry shortly after too. Try switching what and when you eat during the day. I always save my LA Lite for the evening because I know that I will be starving when I come home from the gym. I try to eat it the closest to 7:00pm as I can so I won't be hungry before going to bed. The main point around having a limited amount of food is to teach to new eatting habits so you don't eat just because we are bored. It's a hard habit to break. Make sure you measure you food too, because you can over do, but you can also underestimate what your eatting. I mean, 5 ozs of chicken is a lot - it's like 1 1/2 chicken breast. Other diets consider a protein as 3 ozs. I'm on the Blue/Gold plan but I know that the Red and Purple plans, proteins are more ounces. Hope that helps.

Sy

[MetalChic]

Good Morning Chickies!

Welcome Newbies!

danbasi, I do NOT eat the LA Lites, and I am on Purple. The adequate amount of protien is included in the Purple. If you were eating the LA Lites, they would reduce your plan to another color; for instance, Gold or Blue.

Fashnvictm, I actually had to call and talk to the nurse at my doctor's office to get the form signed and returned. The doctor's office had the information and were not getting it back. I was worried that if it went on any longer that I would chicken out......

Mandy, don't fell guilty for eating on plan. I know sometimes with what I eat I can't believe I am on a diet.

Haylo, you don't have to take the CarbEnders with a Carb Craver meal; but what I do is buy a comparable supplement that costs MUCH LESS. I go to the deli and have them tell me the sodium content before I have them slice my lunchmeat. I usually get roast beef which has about 300mg of sodium per 3oz serving or turkey that is about the same. Our bodies have to get used to the different foods and portions and adjust, it is normal to be hungry for awhile. I suggest eating high fiber foods from your list; for example, grain bread, brown rice, wheat pasta, broccoli, and etc., to keep you fuller longer. If you still are hungry a serving of vegetables is not going to hurt you. Most vegetables are fat free and have very few calories.

Have a great day chickies!

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies!

Beverly, you do not look like an apron grandma at all! About dreams - isn't it wonderful when you can get all that anger out and never have to deal with the consequences! Tsk, tsk about the cake. . . now, who else will eat this luscious desert that you've made? Do you bring it to the office so that rail-thin co-worker can eat it?

Haylo - I don't do the carb cravers (and I don't do the carb enders) - I usually have a LC for that carb need - even if it counts for a P and a S. I find most of my meals are pretty plain - usually a P, lots of Vs and some sort of starch.

danbasi - glad to see you here on our main thread! How much weight do you have to lose? If it's over 40 pounds, the purple plan is probably the right plan for you WITH LITES. If you're confused, please ask the question to your conselour in as many different ways as you can think of to get the answer that you want. Explain that you were given two answers and you can't figure out how they work together. Your center needs to know that it's giving out unclear info. What I think happens is that for those people who do not do the lites (either by choice or because of medical reasons) are moved to a higher plan - meaning one that has more servings, and bigger protein servings. If they ever ask you where you got certain info that you're asking about -- like we've suggested something here on the thread - just say you have a friend following LAWL in a different part of the country, and they mentioned what ever you are asking about. (does this make sense? I just read it, and got confused :lol: )

Fashionvictm - I would definately contact the main office via the website, and tell them. However, there could be a good reason that they could not get back to your mom - the office could be short staffed, it could be really busy --- plus, it could just be that anything out of the ordinary throws them for a loop! Did your mom pay by credit card? If so, tell them that if they don't handle it by a due date, she'll stop payment on it. If she's paid the full price now, she is a full member of LAWL and should get all the service that she's entitled to! Is there another center locally that you could go to? There can be a wide range of customer service between the centers in your area.

Mandy, (first of all, post your recipe for the taco salad!) if you can, try not to look at food as the enemy - it is the fuel that your body needs to do all the stuff that you do - caring for your DS and DH , especially. You want to reach that goal number so much that you're trying every way you can to get there faster (skipping foods) and then angry when it's not happening (eating off plan). Many people on the thread (Sy for one!) has had a real hard time losing that last ten pounds. If you're stalling, have you asked the center for help? Also, sometimes I find I've fixed something to eat, and I just don't want to eat that thing - it means I need to add a little variety in my diet. (I may be misreading your post, if so, sorry for the lecture!)

Karen, I agree with you - with the protein sizes on purple, I don't think I'm on a diet either!

Hugs and skinny vibes to all!
Julie

[SyracuseNY]

MetalChic: I totally agree with the whole grains as you mentioned. If I eat a piece of white bread, I swear that there is something in that stuff that makes me want more and I'm hungry after. Must be the white flour!

A tip for the newbies: Thomas's makes 4" 100% Whole Wheat pitas, I have them everyday for breakfast (for my S). Today I had mind with 1 T of RF peanutbutter (for my 1/2 protein) but most days I have them with eggbeaters and a wedge of Laughing Cow cheese spread - it's my breakfast sandwich and tastes great (if you microwave the eggbeaters for about 1.20 minutes in a plastic bowl, they slip right out). I discovered that if you put the pitas in a toaster oven using the toast button, they puff up in the middle and makes then a little crunchy and easy to cut in 1/2.

Sy

[textjewel]

Sy - I love those mini pita's -- i get three eggs as a P, and that's dinner lots of nights.. also have to agree with you about white bread. Still working through the stash of regular pasta (takes a long time to go through it at 1/3 cup at a time!) - do you count that laughing cow wedge as a dairy - also love those wedges. But my dairy is usually yogurt with fruit - it helps me get the fruit in.

[Chklithunder]

Hi Everyone. :wave:

At WI last night I was (drumroll please......) DOWN 2 LBS! :cb::cb::cb::cb:

Of course I am happy although I don't understand how it could be. I'll take it though. Still, the way I was feeling about not doing the right things is enough to make it a little easier to remain OP.

Beverly - You're pretty! The other ladies look no thinner than you, and certainly no better. But, just to be "nice," I too suggest that you bring that dessert right on into the office and let them dig in! :devil:

Danbasi - I have oatmeal every morning and that truly gets rid of the cravings. When lunchtime hits, I am usually still not hungry, but I force myself to eat. In the evenings if I am really hungry I will have brown rice for my starch and an extra serving of veggies. Also, try experimenting with new veggies that you would normally not have eaten if your plan didn't require so many servings in a day. This should help ease the boredom from not really being able to combine foods the way we'd like. Since I started LAWL, I have found that I REALLY LIKE brussel sprouts, asparagus, arugula, and raw red bell pepper cut into strips with FF dip.

Haylo - One of the counselors at the center looked in my diary and saw that I had recorded 2 carb cravers meals within a week. She told me that for best results, I should try to view CC meals as "legal cheats" but to make sure I drank the extra water. She said that I should not have them daily, but to try to reserve them for myself as a treat after I've had a couple of days strictly OP. When I joined LAWL I couldn't take any supplements because I have hypertension. The counselor told me to be sure I drank ALL the water and that I should be okay on CC days.

I am on the red plan, and now that I am used to eating so often throughout the day, I find the protein sizes to be a bit large for me. It's hard to get it all in. So I eat a lot of fish now, because its not as filling as chicken, which I usually will eat when I am very hungry.

I hope you all have a good day!

[textjewel]

Carmen -way to go, chickie!

I must admit - i usually have a lite for breakfast. Then a couple of hours later, I have fruit and yogurt. . .I finish off the day with another lite. . .

Sometimes it is really tough for me to get in all the fruits - I often have applesauce at dinner.

[mrsSmiley]

Good Morning All!!!!:wave:

Wow, ya'll are quite talkative. I've been reading for over 30 minutes again. LOL I'm so thankful to have found this LA site. I went to the LAWL site hoping several weeks ago to find out more information, but there's not much there. I had hoped there would be quite a few recipes but there's only a few. Well, yesterday was TOM so that is for sure why I gained that 0.1lb. I knew I felt bloated but she wanted to blame my poor soup. LOL Oh well, I probably won't get her anymore, she probably won't want me either.

Syracuse~ I look forward to the recipes. Yes, I told her it was that TOM but she just kinda looked at me and didn't nod or say anything. I think maybe they must hear that a lot when it's not the reason. Well, honey, it will be with me the week of it, cause I always gain. :yes: And I will continue to ask questions cause the way I figure it, I have paid for the answers. Congrats on people noticing you're losing!! That's an awesome feeling!

Beverley~ Thanks for the vinegarette recipe, I look forward to trying it! You're a very beautiful woman!! I honestly think much more beautiful than the others. ;) I hate this time change too. It's killing me in the mornings. I have always gotten up early but now, it feels like I'm getting up at 3 or 4. :o Congrats on the 4lbs gone forever!!! Sorry to hear about son's earache. I have had them all my life. I agree with Haylo if the antibiotics don't work they will probably have to put tubes in to drain the fluid, but it's a simple procedure. We are having lots and lots of wind right now too, and I am getting tired of it. I've had to try to anchor everything outside down. Congrats on your boobs too. You are lucky, but you deserve it. I'm not dedicated enough to wear a bra day AND NIGHT! Nope, not me. :no: I'm been having a lot of dreams lately, maybe I'm venting from my day, like you. At least that person coming into your office, has you smiling anyway. :D

Star~ Congrats on your new place. I bet it was a terrible feeling being locked out in your pjs but at least you weren't in a teddy . . . . . . . or were you? LOL I look forward to having that "bra rash", too. :D I love my indoor grill too. I have a GF and a new Hamilton Beach with removable grids and I love that!!! I love that sticker you saw, and that's right no matter what we do in this world we are going to still die, that is unless the Lord comes back first. And that is something we can take care in this world. Ya know?

Mandy~ Hope your Take off went well. They never let me do any of the fast stuff since I have health problems, I just started on the plan on day 1. They don't let me take any of the supplements except the 3 vitamins. Which is probably good. The counselors tell me it's very important for you to eat EVERYTHING on your plan for you to lose properly. If you start shorting yourself, your body will think it needs to hold on and not let go of some of the weight and you won't lose. Hey, can I have your recipe for your Taco Salad, too???? Pleeeeezzzz.

Fiona~ Congrats on buying the house and the horse and baby. Your life is making some wonderful changes. ;) Nope you're right, they wouldn't let me talk directly to the dietitian. They told me to tell them what I was interested in "combining" and they would talk with them and get back to me or have an answer for me the next time I come in. Congrats on your "bra rash"!!! Your effforts are paying off! Hang in there, literally!!! :rofl: Your hubby's comment sounds like something my dh would say! Men they're so funny!

Carmen~ I've dieted for so long, I don't know how not to dread something. LOL Let me know where I can order those veggie trays to go in the trunk. I think that's a fantastic idea, maybe the car dealers could start installing an small refrigerator in our trunks and that would solve a lot. No more melted LA bars, we could carry fresh veggies, yogurt, our water bottles, etc... I think I'll recommend it. In fact, I really think it would be a little more handier if they could put it in the dash somewhere. Then if we stopped in traffic or a light we could just reach in and get us a little something without having to go to the trunk. :yes:

Ok, continued on Thursday #2 . . . . . .

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: Here is my 'personal' way I handle the Laughing Cow cheese wedges on the LA plan. The new plan you can have 2 oz of low fat cheese that equal a Dairy (which equals about 80-90 calories per oz). Here is what I do:

1.) Laughing Cow (green) - Lite = 35 calories
2.) Laughing Cow (blue) = 50 calories
3.) Laughing Cow Bella (red/yellow) = 70 calories
4.) Laughing Cow Bella (white) = 50 calories
5.) Low Fat Cheese in general = approx 80 calories

If I use #1, I spead a wedge on my pita, and eat the other while I'm making my sandwich and count for 1/2 D.

In other words, I use it by the amount of calories - not the amount of cheese. I normally only use 1/2 Dairy per day, so I know in the evening that if I'm starving, I can have a #1 without going off plan.

Some days, when I have my 3 LF Triscuts or a slice of ww diet bread after work - I use the remaining 1/2 of dairy.

Also, I normally only buy the Lite and occassionally I but the others for a treat (and extra flavor).

Locally, you can get the Lite in Garlic or Onion flavors. I perfer the 'original flavor'.

Occassionally I switch and use a LF Yogurt for my Dairy, and if I have that - I that as 1 dairy.

Sy

[SyracuseNY]

Hi Smiley!

Julie, sorry - probably more info that you want to know. Sometimes I get carried away.

[textjewel]

No, Sy, that was perfect. I usually do the ounces, but each of the lite ones are only .75 ounces, so I'd only do two - I find that two are too much for three triscuits! I like the garlic ones, but they are tough to find. The regular lite ones are good, though. I also like the cabot lite cheese (it's 70 cals/ounce). You do get two oz on gold/blue, right?

Hi again, Smiley! where in Texas are you from? We have a lot of texas chicks here! I admire your spirit - never back down from your questions - although realize that you probably know more than they do! The other thing I noticed at my center - I am not sure how many of the counselors there REALLY understand what it is like to have to lose A LOT of weight!

Julie

[mrsSmiley]

Janelle~ Good Luck with the two day express!!!

bride2bMeg~ Good luck with weigh in.

Suzanne~ Congrats on your 25 LBS DOWN!!!!! You are doing awesome! Keep up the good work!!

Karen (RWF)~ Good luck with weigh in!

Karen (MC)! Congrats on your TWO lbs DOWN!!! And EIGHTY FIVE lbs OFF!!!!! Good luck with your 5 #. Congrats on your GRADUATION next month!! You are such an inspiration with all your family and busyness and yet you have still achieved with education and weight loss!!! WTG!!! The broth I used was Herbox and I told her that even. From now on I want one of the counselors that has done or is doing the program. I really like three of them and this was the first time I had had this lady. But she is bean pole size and has never done the program or even needed to, I'm sure. :rolleyes:

Julie~ You are so very right about how people are effected about the iron demon (scale). Yeah, I've decided as suggested to be a "teenager" and just not vounteer any "extra" information unless they ask. But I will continue to ask questions, and want answers since I feel I have already PAID for them.

Marisa~ Congrats on your 2.8lbs DOWN!!!! :yay: I'm also in TX kinda close to Abilene. I'm so sorry for your mom and all that she had to go through. I had to have a medical release also since I have had health problems. I called my doctors' office and told them they were faxing the release and if they would sign it and send it back then I could get started right away, other wise I would have had to wait several days to go back to the center to get started. I live an hour away from the center. They got it back pretty quick. All LA required was just a signature for me. But, If I hadn't called it would probably have been pushed aside as not a priority and got to in a day or three. Ya know?? But, I'm a nurse and deal with these folks on a daily basis, too. I would still do the email, because the center did not handle it professionally. In fact, if your mother wrote it would be better. They should have respected her rights and privacy, even though you are her daughter. So, has your mom got started on the program?? Did you get the release?

Haylo~ Congrats on your TWO lbs DOWN!!!! My counselor recommended the Healthy choice lunchmeats or any that had less than 150mg per slice. The HC turkey has 450mg for 4 slices. They only recommend the turkey or the roast beef, no ham. I find that if I'm still hungry, I can talk a walk and then drink a glass of cold water and that helps but if it doesn't you may need to rearrange your eating to have something left in the evenings to snack on. We love graham cracker/lf peanut butter.

iheartsushi~ I like several of the counselors fine. It's just when I told this one about the broth and that "so&so" told me to get this, she seemed to get frustrated. When she told me that I couldn't have it, I told her, maybe she needed to go ask "so&so" about it. Well, that made her mad. But the one that had told me about the Herbox is also an LVN and is much more knowledgeable, but she was off that day. But you can bet, if I have further problems with her or anyone, I will complain. I think for the price, we should be able to ask anything and get a STRAIGHT answer. Glad you're here. ;)

Danbasi~ Welcome

Carmen~ Congrats on your TWO lbs down!!! Tell me more about your oatmeal, what kind and how much?

Sy~ Those pitas sound wonderful! Where do you get them??

Michele~ Congrats on folks noticing your weight loss!!! That is so awesome!!! It's so good to be talking with you again. Good luck with the Knit cafe. How's your love life these days?? Thanks for emailing me. ;)

HOPE EVERYONE HAS A WONDERFUL THURSDAY AND STAYS OP!!!!!

[MetalChic]

Smiley,

Thanks for the congrats!

If you used Herbox, I wouldn't worry about the broth at all. I am sure it was just your TOM. I am sure weigh in next week will be better. Always remember, the counselors that have been on the plan understand MUCH more than ones that haven't. Just because she just finished her training recently does not make her an expert whatsoever. As you know, we all learn from trial and error. You can learn anything in a book or a class, but until you do it in real life you don't know everything (or like me, still don't know everything).

[Chklithunder]

Smiley - I use plain Quaker oats (not the instant kind), mixed with water and cooked in the microwave for about 2 minutes or less. I sweeten it with just a little Splenda. I usually follow my oatmeal up with my 8oz of peach lowfat yogurt and I'm good to go until lunchtime. BTW - I read that Splenda is coming out with brown sugar. Yay!

[textjewel]

Smiley - about the pita breads - in my grocery they are in the bread aisle by the other specialty breads, like bagels (and the little debbies ;( ). If you look at the nutrition info it says 140 cals for one serving - which is TWO pitas - that really confused me for a while.

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: You must get the large Pita's. Locally they sell "Thomas' Sahara Pita Bread" 100% Whole Wheat - 8 mini size to a package. They are 70 calories a piece. It would be the same as cutting the larger ones in 1/2. I guess I just figure, if I have a large one - I'm afaid I'd be temped to continue eatting the remaining 1/2.

[vibrantecho]

Hey gals - wow you've all been chatty this morning! :gossip:

This is embarrassing to admit, but you know that 25-pound ticker in my signature? I don't remember what number I used as a starting weight. :o I think I'm going to use 203 cause that was my weight yesterday and today I'm down so I get to move my ticker and that's a plus!

I'm going to WI today, finally - I think I'll be right about the same as my last WI which was over a week ago. I won't be able to show them my diary, though, cause it's in the other car - gee, darn! (it's got lots of blank pages - oops.)

Have a good OP day!

Fiona

[textjewel]

No -Sy, they are the small ones - the packages here say 140 cals for a serving, which is TWO pitas. I kept on putting them back, because I didn't understand how the large ones were around 100 cals, but the small ones were 140. . . must not have had my reading glasses on those first couple of times. I guess the labeling is just a little differerent here.

Fi - good luck at WI. Confession time - I lost my last diary - just around the time I went on hold for the meds. . .

[Karen]

Hello everyone,
Well, I finally have peace and quiet around here....It just drives me nuts when someone else is working in the office with me. It would be different if there were two computers... :rolleyes:
Congrats to everyone that has lost weight.. :cheer: It looks like everyone is doing really well...WTG
I'm now on day 3 of WW and it's going pretty good. I wasn't going to weigh yet but I couldn't stand it and hopped on the scales this morning. I was down 2.8... :D But, everyone knows I usually lose alot in the first week of being on a plan so I'll see how I do after my second week. Like I said, I'm only on day 3 now... :lol:
No exercising yet but hope to get back with that soon.... I just can't seem to get started again... :devil:
Ok Chicks, I'll check back in later.. ;)

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: Thomas' must be packaging mine in newer or older packing bags because I took mine out of the freezer at work and my read only 70 calories? Maybe different rules per state, or different bags per mfg plants. In either case, we are eatting the same pitas. :dizzy:

Karen: Nice to see your back. I wouldn't like sharing a computer either, because I would want it to myself all the time as well. Good job at keeping up with WW. Staying OP for 3 days is 3 days closer to your goal, right? It's a pretty flexible plan, so that may be what you need. AND, GET YOUR BUTT UP and get on that bike! :lol: How was that for the wet noddle?! ;)

Hey, what happened to our other bride2be? Bridezilla to Star :lol: ? Shouldn't she be back from the honeymoon/wedding soon?

Later, Sy

[Karen]

Sy...Star just told me the same thing about exercising. She's giving me until I get back from Talledega.... :lol:
I'm really hoping that WW is what I've needed. I'm liking it so far... ;)

[mandyd26]

Hello Chickies!
Thanks for all of the advice. I know that not eating all of my food would be just cheating myself and not getting me to my goal, but lately I've just been having this problem with food. It's mainly after lunch. Anyway, I will continue to eat all of my foods. (I do occasionaly miss a fruit) I know that if I just stick to the plan I will lose this weight. I'm down a little from yesterday, so that is great. I'm still relosing the three pounds I gained last week, but 1 more pound to go and I'll be making progress again.

Textjewel-you read my post right and everything you said in your post was exactly true. I just want to lose the last of this weight as fast as I can. I guess I'm afriad of not reaching my goal, so I want to hurry up and get there.

About the purple plan and lites. It must be different for different people. I was on the purple plan for a long time and I had to use the lites (or substitute them).

The taco salad recipe is in the cook book. I don't have it anymore because I sold it :) But this is what I remember of it.....It's just beef (I use 4oz on the gold plan) lettuce (2 cups for me) and tomato (1). Then I use cheese if I have any servings left for the day and 2 tbs of salsa. I think the trick is in the seasoning for the beef. I cheat and use real taco seasoning, but I know in the cook book they had some spices you could use. Sorry that it isn't some amazing recipe, but I love it and feel like I'm cheating when I eat it. (I guess I kind of am with the seasoning) Sometimes I do just use morton lite salt and pepper. That tastes good too. I wish I still had the cook book, so I could share recipes with you all. I just didn't use it anymore, so I sold it on e-bay. :)

Well, I will talk to you all later.

Mandy

[mandyd26]

Sy-Thanks for the tip about carrots. I didn't know that! You learn something new every day.


Mandy

[vibrantecho]

Back from WI - I moved my short-term goal ticker down but had to move my long-term ticker up. :( Oh well, I know that I've been OP yesterday and today and it will show when I WI again tomorrow, right?

I had a new counselor today - she must be a transfer from a different center because she knew her stuff, she wasn't BRAND new. She was okay - tried to be very motivating and "why do you think that is" but she just kind of bugged me. Whatever. I swear, even though I'm sure I'll have to purchase more weeks when I run out, I think I'm definitely getting my money's worth out of this plan just in new diaries - LOL!!!

Mandy - I will have to check out that taco salad recipe. I used to use the packaged seasoning but not anymore - I about keeled over the first time I actually looked at the nutrition label and realized how much sodium is in there. The cookbook taco seasoning is actually quite good, and I made up a lot of it and put it in a little Tupperware thing so I'm all set for the next few taco-y meals. Maybe I'll do that for dinner tomorrow night...does anyone know if they make whole wheat tortillas? I'm sure they do, I've just never looked for them. :hungry:

Fiona

[mandyd26]

Fiona-That is so funny that you just posted that.... I was just in my kitchen and looked at the sodium in the taco seasoning. I won't be using that anymore either! I remember the cookbook seasoning being good. I just don't have it anymore. If you have it could you post it? That would be great.

I have bought wheat tortillias before. I don't know if they were whole wheat, or what the difference would be, but they were good. I just found them at my grocery store with all of the other tortillias.

I had a counselor that did that too me once. She was new and just had started the plan herself. I had been on it for about 9 months and could tell that I knew a lot more than she did about the plan. I hadn't been to the center in a couple of weeks and went back to get remotivated and start fresh. So I told her I didn't have my diary and she was like you really need to bring your diary in.."it helps us, help you" . Now I know what she was saying was right, but I was not happy with how she said it and the timing. I actually rolled my eyes at her. It was just annoying to me. So I still see her in the office and try my hardest not to get her. She just rubbed me the wrong way I guess. I guess what bothered me the most is she acted like I didn't know anything about lawl, when I had been there and on the plan longer than her. I guess this all sounds pretty petty, but you would of had to of been there. :)

Anyway, I just ate and all I can think about is eating more, so I guess I need to get busy doing something.

Mandy

[SyracuseNY]

Fiona: I just happen to have some Whole Wheat tortillas in the freezer here at work. Here is what I found. Mission Low Carb Whole Wheat Fajita Size (which are small for a fajita). 10 to a package. Here's more info:

Nutrition Facts:
Serving Size 1 tortilla
Calories 80
Total Fat 2g
Sodium 240mg
Carbs 12 g
Dietary Fiber 8g

[Fashnvictm]

Hi everyone! I go in for my weigh in tomorrow morning at 9am! w00t!

[textjewel]

Sy, you are the grocery store QUEEN! I've never bought WW tortilla's, they are going on my next shopping list. Do you count a whole one for a starch?

Fashion - have you really lost 8 pounds already??? I am GREEN.

Fiona - WTG for going to WI today. I know what you mean about the diarys!

I have also had counselors like you've described. I find that they sort of settle in to the way the rest of the counselors act after a while. (Also, if I've given one a bad time, THEY tend to avoid ME - I always get a chuckle out of this).

I am going out to dinner tonight- the place we're going has grilled seafood. It is totally awesome, and usually I eat too much. I am going to try to only eat half the plate. Wish me luck.

Hugs,
Julie

[Fashnvictm]

Well text - I lost 5 pounds pre-LAWL...and 3 after starting LAWL. :)

[textjewel]

Marissa that's terrific! What's happening with your mom?

[Karen]

My last experience with any counselors is the day they tried to charge me 29.95 for the new plan and I walked out. They haven't even called me or anything and I'm paid up until the end of the year..... :lol: Atleast for this year, I'm only out the 99.00 special...They can all kiss my butt.... :o Sorry, it's the :devil: in me.... :lol:

[Karen]

Julie...I just noticed your ticker. Where are you going on vacation at now?.... :p

[Karen]

I was just figuring. When I complete 3 goals of 10%, I'll be at my goal....Easier said than done.. :^: If only it could be that simple to do... :lol:

[textjewel]

Karen, that's the way to look at it - just 10% at a time. Hm.... have to think about that one, too.

Vacation - drool... I'm heading for a two weeks in England, then one week with a friend in Dubai (in the United Arab Emerites. . .) I'm leaving on June 4th.

[Mitchypoo]

Hi all! Way to go to all the losers!!! :dance: Welcome to any new people.

I got the job at the Yarn Cafe! I start tomorrow, after work here i head up there and will work til 9 pm. Then i'm working Sat. after this job 2-6, Sun 11-5 and then next week MWF 6-9 and the followin weekend. I'm not gonna have time to even eat!! Ya right! ;) I'm excited about it. They loved my work, it's such a neat place. I'm looking forward to it.

Woke up with a migraine this a.m. didn't go in, but i slept it off, took a shower and came in.

[Fashnvictm]

Thanks for asking, text. She is frustrated with the whole ordeal and is probably going to cancel. I made a thread about it askign for help with the cancelation procedures. I don't blame her, I'm upset too. Bad thing is if she cancels, I'm gonna cancel! I'm not doing this without her as we are each other's support. I spent 30 minutes on the phone with the Medical center tryign to speak with SOMEONE - ANYONE who could give the ok to LAWL and got nowhere. I called LAWL and spoke with the manager infornming her of my mom's intent to cancel and she just cheerfully said "OK! I don't blame her!" I get upset when people treat my mom unfairly. I feel like LAWL has really started off on the wrong foot with her...and subsequently me! *grouch face*

[Star]

Julie, remember I warned you don't you (or Fiona) get Rusty started on uncontrolable thinking....... :nono: :gossip: Although she did come up with the 10% on her own, that is my point, poor thing thinks 24/7. Hum now that I think about that, you and FI fall into that catagory ;)

[textjewel]

Marissa, I have no clue on the cancellation procedures. I am sorry about what your mom is going through. It sounds like neither the medical center (in Washington DC you just get used to how many hoops you have to jump through to get the gov't to do anything FAST) and LAWL are not working really hard.

Please, please, read through your stuff about cancelling for yourself, and be well armed if you decide to do it.

Star - you are talking to the wrong person - I think too much, too.

Julie

[vibrantecho]

Fashn - I replied to your thread about cancelling. Good luck!

Fiona

[Star]

Julie,
"Star - you are talking to the wrong person - I think too much, too"

I know, so does FI that's why if you three (you-FI-Rusty) get going you might get in a thinking spin and lose control.......lol

Bye for today - catch you chicks tomorrow.....hugs

[mrsSmiley]

Hello Again!


Marisa~ I can't believe that about your mom. I'm so very sorry. That is not right. I know you both are frustrated! I will say a little prayer that things will still work out for you both. ;)

Michele~ Congrats on the job!!! What all will you be doing there? Be careful my friend and don't overdo it. And btw I visited CE earlier and posted. ;) I hope your migraine is better.

Julie~ Oh, England. I would love to go there. You go girl and have a fantastic time!!! When is that??? All tortillas count as 2 starches according to my counselor. :?: I thought maybe the whole ~ whole wheat ones would be only one. Nope. I still don't understand all this. :rolleyes: Good luck at dinner tonight. Make good choices. ;)

Karen (RWF) If they had tried to charge me $29.95, I would have walked out too. I don't blame you one iota.

Good Luck to all the big losers that weigh in tomorrow!!!

[Karen]

Star....You know when I'm not talking, I'm thinking.... :lol:

[Karen]

Julie...Your vacation sounds wonderful..Can I go.. :?:

Smiley...There is only one good counselor at my center and she is the one that had to tell me that... :mad:

Fiona...Any news on the house?

Marissa...If you and your Mother have the same amount of weight to lose, you can always share the plan with her. But, if you want a refund as well, I'm sure we can help you out with the plans... :)

[Karen]

Ok Chicks, I'm just about out of here so I'll talk to you all tomorrow... :D

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: LOL! I have been called the grocery store Queen more than once, it's funny you picked the same phrasel LOL! Yes, I'm a "Nutrition Facts" junkie. I won't buy a bread type starch if doesn't have 100% whole wheat and lots of fiber. I've only used 1 of the tortillas since they are 90 calories. I put all my starches in the freezer at work so I have a selection and not get bored. I would say to count them as the 1-2 times a week type starch. I try to save my yummy starch for Saturday mornings for some reason.

Hey, all you chicken fans (like we have a big choice). I found a new product. It's Salt Free Mrs. Dash 10 Minute Marinade. There was a coupon in this Sunday's paper if anyone is a coupon junkie like me. Yikes, I'm revealing all my secrets tonight. :lol: It comes in 3 flavors. I have tried the Southwestern Chipotle, the Mesquite Grille is okay, and then there is a Herb Garlic I picked up tonight. I really like the SW Chipotle. :o Here are the Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 Tbsp
Calories 20
Total Fat 1.5 g
Sodium 0mg
Total Carb 2g

The ingredents are kind of strange combinations, like orange juice, tomato paste, garlic puree, applesauce. Guess the applesauce is what makes it seems a little chunky - enough to stick to the chicken.

I didn't use it as a marinade, I used it as a dipping sauce.

I tried the Mesquite Grille in a spoon, it's not bad. The garlic is okay too. I'm not sure what the actual price was, but the sale price was 2 for $5.00.

1 of the reasons why I go to the store so much is because I run out of fresh fruits and veggies about ever other day it seems.

Be back later,

Sy

[haylo921]

WOW! Everyone was busy,busy typing today. Thanks everyone for all the pointers on what to do is certain situations. You guys are the best!!!!! I love this message board!!!!

Thanks for the ideas on the pita things it sounds good. When I go to the store this weekend it well definatly be on my list.

Today was a good day for me, I think I am starting to adjust a little better. Although, I am having a little trouble with the protein thing. I am on the red plan an it is a lot of protein. In a way I guess that is good for me though, because in the past I tend to leave protein out. I guess you could say I am a carbaholic. Good thing is I have been doing pretty good these two days. You guys are great motivators. I think ya'll (bye the way ya'll is Texas for you all) are better then the counselors.

[SyracuseNY]

Wow, I can't believe there are so many new people joining here. The more the merrier. There are more intro's on the BIOs page. Hope they join and post over here because it's enough for me to keep up with this thread.

Day Light Saving Time has messed me up this week. Last night was the first night since Sunday that I feel like I got a normal nights sleep, woke up at a good time, and make it to work before my scheduled work time. It's going to be a good day.

Sy

[textjewel]

Good morning, chickies!

I enjoyed my grilled seafood last night, although it was a little too salty, and I had spaghetti (but not the whole serving) and bread - but today should be much better (even though I am going out for lunch again! :dizzy: )

WOW - welcome to all the NEWBIES. I wonder how everyone has suddenly found us???

Karen/RWF - of course you can come to England. . .although I think the tour I'm on is closed now :(

Michelle - WTG, chickie on the new job! This sounds like a job for the heart, one that will nourish you on the inside! (just make sure you have some time for yourself along the way)

Sy - (didn't you know that I'm psychic - somehow I knew you were the Grocery Store Queen). Thanks for the info on the marinade. (I also use coupons whenever I can find them). What type of special starches do you use on the weekend?

Haylo - the limited starches is also hard for me. That's why the LC's I usually pick are the ones with pasta or rice. . . They are a nice change from the chicken, chicken, chicken. I did have tuna yesterday for lunch, it was almost like a forgotten friend! When I first started, I thought LAWL was a low carb diet. Then I logged stuff into fitday.com for a few days, and with the lites, and all the fruit and veg, it's actually pretty balanced. But I still have trouble getting in 7oz of cooked chicken in at a time.

Skinny vibes to all!

Julie

[Marci1021]

Just want to say hi. I posted on another board but it was suggested to post on this board. I started 3 1/2 weeks ago. I'm down 4lbs but have started to feel discouraged as my last 2 weigh-ins have just stood still. I guess it's good I haven't gained though. I'm on the gold plan and pretty much eat the same things everyday. I feel as though my counselor doesn't give me much counseling. She just looks at my book, gives me a weird look as to why I'm not losing but doesn't give me any suggestions. That's why I'm glad I found this site. If any one has any tips to offer...that would be great. In my post on the other board, someone said they wondered why my plan hasn't been tweaked. Any ideas how it could be tweaked? Should I cut out a starch? Thanks in advance to everyone for reading and offering suggestions.
http://tickers.TickerFactory.com/ezt/d/3;10720;102;0;1/c/140/t/125/s/144/k/07c8/weight.png

[mrsSmiley]

Good Morning LA LOSERS!!!:wave:

How is everyone this morning? It's a beautiful sunny day here in central Texas and so far not as windy. (Thank goodness!) I'm getting really tired of all the wind. :dizzy: I'm SOOOOOOO excited this morning! I sneaked on the scale this morning and I FINALLY weighed on my scale 279.5, YAY!!!! :cheer: :dance: :cb: :cp: I've been trying for over a week now to get out of the eighties and this morning it finally happened!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D


Julie Your grilled seafood sounds wonderful. Can you tell me exactly how you did that? Yummy!

Sy I'm still struggling with the time change too. I can't seem to want to get up. Of course, with my dd she doesn't want to go to bed at 8:30 because it's still daylight. And I can forget getting her in the bathtub until late either. She is an outside girl! :D "Miss Grocery Store Queen" where did you happen to find that Mrs Dash 10 minute marinade? Was it with the seasonings or maybe with the other marinades or somewhere else??? That sounds wonderful. I usually make my own but it would be good for dipping sounds like it. :yes:

Haylo I'm on the red plan too and have had trouble with getting it all in. And I'm in Texas and will always be "ya'll-ing". :D I agree this wonderful bunch is better at answering my questions than any of my counselors. So give yourself a hand. :cp:

Hello to EVERYONE else!!!

Hope EVERYONE has a GREAT Friday and a GREAT weekend!!!! EVERYONE try to make GOOD choices, REMEMBER . . .
"A moment on the lips, forever on the hips."

[SyracuseNY]

Julie: On Saturday's I normally have a 'real' slice of WW bread, and a couple times while on LA, I have had a pancake. They are what they use to all the 'limited' starches. For pancake mix, I use a New Hope Mills, I think it's 100% buck wheat and I only add water to the mixture (I don't follow directions on bag) - makes pancakes light and thin. It's a treat to have something that tastes normal. :lol: I have some SF maple syrup, but I would rather just have splenda and spray CBINB (okay, I lied - I would rather have butter and sugar but opt for the other). I haven't found a 'fake' maple syrup that is actually good tasting.

Star, I have to tell you - I would have never believed this in a million years. Being on LA and discovering my trigger foods - most of you have heard about me and my peanutbutter, once I start - it's hard to stop. Well, at the beginning of the week, I purchased RF Peter Pan peanutbutter. Used it twice this week and for once I can say, it's not calling my name. Does that mean that I'm actually learning to control some things or have I just given up? LOL!

Hugs, Sy

[SyracuseNY]

MrsSmiley: I found the Mrs Dash marinade along with the catsup and other marinades. Lawery's marinade was sitting right next to the Mrs Dash and I almost didn't take an extra look because the bottles are very similar. Glad I did. I also get a subscription to a nutrition booklet from the Washington, DC area and on the back page, there is always a good food / bad food comparison. It was featured this month, so been on the look out for it. Congrats on getting into the 70s!

Welcome Marci! Glad you found us over here. I tried cutting and pasting your article, but didn't have much luck last night. I tried to put in on this thread as a quote but it didn't work so I gave up. I have no idea what they mean by tweaking the plan? Gold is Gold. If you are going to the center 3 days a week, don't get discouraged by staying the same. If you stick to plan, the weight will come off. Good Luck!

MrsSmiley: I like your quote. My husband resembles that remark. Just kidding. LOL! :devil: I won't even go there. LOL! :lol:

[textjewel]

Hi all,

I've got to run out today, so can't stay and post that much until later in the afternoon. .

Smiley - Isn't it wonderful when you reach one of those 10 pound markers? There is no feeling like it. Unfortunately, I didn't grill the seafood myself, it was at an Italian restaurant. I only go there about every 6 months, and it is wonderful - shrimp. scallops, calamari, salmon AND white fish. There are only a couple of pieces each, so I don't think it's that bad. .

Marci - when I first started LAWL, I lost 5 pounds the first week and then NOTHING for about 10 days. I was ready to throw in the towel. First of all, do you measure your protein? (I did find out that I was eating REALLY big chicken breasts). ARe you drinking all your water? Are you exercising at all? If you are, you may not be eating enough! (they move regular exercisers to a higher plan). Where are you in your monthly cycle? That can also throw you off in losing weight.

It is really hard to lose the last ten to fifteen pounds. No matter what diet you are on. Sometimes our bodies just want to hold on to that fat! Also, I tend to lose weight in clumps - nothing will happen for a week, and then I'll lose a pound every other day for a week. . .

The counselors do have access to a nutrionist. If you are stumped, you can ask that they check with the nutrionist about what you've been eating to see if the expert can give you any help.

There is something called the green plan - I think that's one less veg and one less fruit. . .

You will MAKE it! Don't give up!

Hugs to all, and happy Friday!

Julie

[Karen]

Good Morning Chicks,
And welcome to all the newbies...This is a great group.. :D
I have to work this weekend which has now turned into a good thing. My DH is quitting smoking tomorrow.... :smoking: I know it's going to be hard on him. Been there done that. I told him we could do this together. He can quit smoking and I'll lose this weight... :cool: Please wish us both luck...I told him that I would try not to get on his nerves... :lol:
So, if anyone is going to be around tomorrow and wants to come out and play, I'll be here.
This is now Day 4 and I'm really liking this plan so far..Of course, I've been working since starting this so I'll have to see how I handle it out in the real world... :o
Well Chicks, I actually have some work to do this morning but I'll be back in alittle bit... :)

[Star]

:coffee: and :dancer: (happy Friday dance)

Rusty - Best of luck to DH with the quitting :smoking: I know that is a tough thing! Just try and support him by keeping your distance and remember if he says anything bad, the :devil: made him do it....

Sy - Good for you with controlling your desire for rfpb ;) You know I have the pb addiction :hun: So let me know if you really have grown to have control or if the brand of pb just isn't that good :lol: With your Grocery Store Queen :queen: title and skills- you desreve to be at goal! I know God didn't mean for this to be so dang hard :dunno:

Julie - Glad you enjoyed your dinner last night :cheers: It is nice when your on plan to sneak in some borderline food once in awhile! What's for lunch today?

Michele - congrats on the job and it's so great that it is something you love :cheer:

Hello to all you newbies - welcome to our coupe......in case you didn't know this already I am inbetween plans. So this thread is called "LAWL Losers & Friends - April" I would be the 'friend' part :lol: I was on LAWL (and every other diet known to mankind), but needed a break and on top of that we just moved from a big house into 2 br apt. - My high weight was 216 and last time I weighed (afew weeks) I was 168. I'm fighting now to just be careful as to what I eat and how much. Something happened after Christmas and I couldn't get back in the real swing of things :?:

I'll be going to CA next Thrusday for a week and when I come back I'm going back to the "center of doom" :devil: I'm ready to lose the last of this weight and get to goal (before I go the the retirement home) :lol: I'm gonna use the MetalChic method and tell them I'll do whatever they say (with no tweaking by me) :nono: If I don't take this more serious I'm in trouble becuz I know LAWL doesn't offer customers any retirement plan :rofl:

Fiona -Any news on the house? When is your horse hunting trip with your mom?

Smiley - I am jealous of you living in the Lone Star State :p I love it there and still have alot of friends and some family there.

Jen - Are you still out there? I know you are...hope your doing good ;)

[Marci1021]

Julie....thanks for your response. I am drinking all of my water and (this is probably too much info) running to the bathroom every 20 mins!!! Hard to get work done!!! I'm not exercising but I have a 22 month old that keeps me so active. I do plan to start jogging again once the weather gets a bit warmer (we're almost there, I live in Albany NY). What I do have to get better at is weighing. Maybe that's where the problem lies.

[vibrantecho]

Hey Chatty Cathys (Cathies?)! :wave:

I'm moving a bit slow today - DH and I had tickets to the Lion King last night and we didn't get to bed until about midnite (this isn't VERY late, but later than usual for us). I almost called in "sleepy" to work this morning - LOL!

Nothing new on the house yet - the other agent has been calling me almost every day this week to see whether we're ready to submit our offer yet - I keep telling her no, not until we have our financing pre-approval (which reminds me, I need to call that guy, too). I think she's trying to make me think she's got lots of interest in it, but really doesn't. I'm not too worried, if she ends up selling it to someone else, it just means that wasn't the house for us, and there will be a better one coming up. :D

As for the horse - mom and I (oh, and DD) are leaving tomorrow morning to go take a look at her - she's in Wisconsin, about a five-hour drive. From what the woman who owns her has said, I think she's about perfect for us!! Unless my mom finds something majorly wrong with her, we will probably take her right back home with us on Sunday. :crossed:

Anyway, I've got some work to get out of the way so that I can have a lazy afternoon (I hope) - back in a few!

Fiona

[Chklithunder]

Hi Everybody. :wave: TGIF! Seriously.

WELCOME to all the new chickies.

Well ladies, I am down a total of 17 lbs which for me is grrreat. I work out about 3 times per week to an aerobics tape. I also have a pilates tape which I have not started, and I haven't started weight training yet. I do not see any changes in myself other than my booty is shrinking (not good) and I see stretchmarks all over my arms and tummy. I don't see that they have reduced in size at all. How often should the center be measuring me? I haven't been measured since week 1.

Any thoughts?

Carm

[vibrantecho]

Carmen - my center tries to measure every four weeks, although sometimes you have to remind them. The next time you go in, go ahead and have them do your measurements - you might be surprised. :)

Fiona

[MetalChic]

I have to tell them when it's time to take my measurements, and it is past time....

I was down another .2lbs yesterday, not a big accomplishment. But it is an accomplishment.

I had a weak moment this morning. :nono:

They had fresh, hot Krispy Kreme Original Glazed doughnuts at the coffee bar this morning when I went to refill my water. I gave in to temptation, but only 1.

Oh well, I've been the devil :devil: today. I guess I will be ok....

Can ya tell I have a sugar fix? :devil:

[vibrantecho]

Tee hee, I just remembered this...last night DH noticed that he's put on a few pounds without realizing it - right now he couldn't get his wedding ring off if he wanted to. I guess it's time to put the junk food ban back in place (I pretty much let him bring home any junk food that I don't care for - like Club crackers, and Coke-brand soda...I also know he has a stash of the good stuff in his office at work)!

Fiona

[Fashnvictm]

Hi All! TGIF! Went in for my weigh in and personal success visit and i'm down 6 pounds since Monday. :)

Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Those of you who know about my mom's doctor sign off issue - it's been resolved! I had to spend 45 minutes on the phone yesterday and spoke with about 20 different people in my sweetest "Texan twang" to convince them to help me out and have the doctor sign the approval form for my mom. I got the call just now that the fax has been recieved at LAWL and she's going in today for her 2 day thing.

Today is gonna be a great day! Can ya feel the love? :p

[haylo921]

Greeting everyone and TGIF, hopefully everyone is doing well. Well today I go in for a WI and personal sucess vist so I will let everyone know how that guys.

Smiley: Do you do the LA lites are do you substitute them with something else? I was just wondering since you are on the red plan also.

Textjewl: thanks for the advice on the LC's I am probaly going to be buying more of the ones with pasta, etc. just for those days when I need a fix.

To all the PB fans, I love peanut butter!!!!. When I was little I used to eat it out of the jar. For a while though, I have been using the Reduced fat Peter Pan brand I althoguh it is a little different it definatly satisfies my cravings. As a matter of fact yesterday for breakfast I had some with a piece of bread. For me it was 1 startch and 1/2 protein. As a matter of fact I love PB so much I was thinking of having some for lunch. Anyways, I don't know if PB is something that you can completly get rid of.

[mandyd26]

Good Morning! Well, I guess it's actually good afternoon to most of you. :)

Smiley-Congrats on the weight loss. I love reaching those 10 pound goals. Right now I'm trying my darndest to get under 160. I'm at 161.2 today. Last week I was at 160.8. Oh well, I'm back on track and I'm gonna get to 159.8 :)

Fashn-I'm so happy that everything with your Mom and LAWL is resolved. I'm glad you will be sticking around. :)

So I had a horrible migrane all day yesterday and on top of that I felt starving and wanted to eat everything in the house.(can't wait until my TOM is over) Luckily I managed to stay OP, I'm still only down a bit from yesterday, but it is better than gaining. I just have to stick with it everyday. I'll do good for a week or so and then eat one bad thing and be up a pound or two. I've got to break that cycle if I ever want to get to my goal. I think eating a bigger variety would probalby help me. I think I get bored with eating the same foods and then start to crave everything else.

My sister is coming over for the day. We are going to go out shopping. (window shopping for me) :) I've got to plan ahead to make sure I don't go overboard during lunch. I tend to do that when eating out with others.

Well, It's great to hear about all of the weight loss success. It keeps me going. Keep it up everyone!

Mandy

[Fashnvictm]

You know, Quiznos makes me so mad!!!!! I go in today for a caesar side salad (counts as 2 veggies) - and I get it back to my office and the lettuce is nasty, wilted, slimey and GROSS! BLAH.

[Mitchypoo]

Fashnvictim, i'd email them or call. They in my experience are very customer service oriented and i think they'd want to know. They should make it right with you.

[Fashnvictm]

It's no biggie - I ate it anyway. HA! I think the one near me is franchised....so they are less customer service oriented.

Just finished my LA Lites for dessert. yum!

[vibrantecho]

All Quiznos are franchised, I think...I LOVE their food, and I say that even after working at one, that's the best fast food recommendation a person can give, I think...anyway, I would definitely let them know. (On a side note, I can't believe you ate that slimy salad! I can't deal with even slightly wilted lettuce...bleah! :lol: )

Fiona

[haylo921]

Well I haven't gone to my WI yet, but I was wondering what you guys think. I am going to ask the counselor as well and I am sure she will give me some weird remark. But tommorrow is The Strawberry Festival in Poteet, Texas. I am supposed to go with my parents. In these types of events what do you guys do. Do you eat off plan and be bad :devil: , or do you stay on plan :angel: and try to figure out what fits into it. Just wondering what ya'll would do in these type of situation. I am not sure if I can give with stand the temptation of Strawberry Shortcake. :dizzy:

[vibrantecho]

With events like this, I do TRY to stick as close to plan as possible - but Life Happens, right? Definitely tell your counselor, if you have some ideas of what you might be eating (strawberry shortcake for example! Who can go to a Strawberry Festival without having shortcake?) she can give you some tips on how to count it. (Probably two starches and a fruit, and maybe a fat if there's whip cream or ice cream involved, and if they are huge, plan to share!)

My advice is to NOT go with the idea of eating anything you feel like "just for today," because you WILL be kicking yourself for a long while afterward while you fight off the three-pound gain...:p Speaking from experience, here! :lol: Make the best choices you can, pick one thing you can't resist and enjoy it to the max, drink LOTS of water over the next few days, and good luck and have fun!

Fiona

[solocat]

G'afternoon all!

Found your site while looking for LAWL kinds of recipes. Have been reading through all the threads and love the hints I am picking up. Tossed my bio in the bio thread, but in a nutshell, have been actively doing the program since Mar. 30th. So far so good...I think! STarted on the purple plan, but when I said I couldn't afford the LA Lites, got changed to the Red plan. SO anyone with hints, nudges, swift kicks for me to keep me going - all would be welcome!

My biggest problem is making the time to be more active. Work keeps me busy, and because I commute, I usually get home and want to veg! But my two hounds have been happier I have been making an effort to do the evening long walk thing. Now to dust off my BowFlex!

I also joined a LAWL up by my work, which means that I go from Th. - Mon without accountability. Ackkk! I may actually make an effort and head up there tomorrow - I just need that checking in right now!

Hope your weekends are great!

Cathy


http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/img/bar039/cartoonstar01/lb/210/170/204/ (http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/index.php)

[Fashnvictm]

Welcome solocat!!!

[Karen]

iheartsushi....What part of Alabama do you live and what part of WV are you from? I live in Alabama now but am orginally from Maryland... :cool:

[Star]

hey Chicks - I'm outta here for the weekend - have a great on plan two days!
Haylo -The Strawberry Festival would fall into our "Life Happens" event list. When these come up, you go, you look, you try to eat/drink within plan BUT sometimes things just don't happen that way. If you enjoy the event with food/drink you have to get right back on plan the next day or that night if possible, Like Fiona said and drink alot of water, maybe some hot lemon water too. But most importantly - ENJOY the event!
Hugs to all you chicks and remember bathing suit season is almost here.......

[Karen]

Ok Chickies....I'm just about out of here. I'll be here over the weekend if anyone wants to come out and play... :D
Next weigh in...Tomorrow morning.... :fr:

[textjewel]

Hi chickies, missed you today.

Had a good lunch with friends, went to a chilean restaurant and had steak with onions and rice - sort of like a stir fry, but not, if you know what I mean. . . This is one of my favorite groups of friends, and we shared a jug of sangria. I am glad that I didn't drive home. . . I kept on drifting off on the subway.

You guys were really chatty today!

Karen/RWF - how is your DH going to do it? I wish both of you luck. I bet that you don't want to hear this, but I'm finding that I'm smoking less since I started exercising. (at the very least, I don't smoke while I work out!)

Fashn - so glad that you got your mom's paperwork straightened out! And 6 pounds is terrific!!

Fiona, hope you have a FAB weekend with the horsies.

Carmen, they are supposed to measure you every four weeks, but sometimes you have to remind them. With 17 pounds you should have lost some inches! I think I'd lost 10 all around by that point.

Karen/Metalchick - I have the same sugar problem. It is a real toughie, especially if you can SMELL those hot donuts. . .

Hi Mandy, I love to window shop, and look at those clothes that'll fit when I lose another 30 pounds, it keeps me going. Have you found any non size related apparal to reward yourself with? I don't know - shoes, jewelry, hair stuff??

Haylo - I think Fiona gave you terrific advice - it all boils down to what do you want more? I think the point of going on a diet program is that eventually we get a handle on our eating - at least most times. So, imagine your at goal weight. How will you handle it? Eat everything in site? Or make the best choice you can? Star gave me great advice once on handling parties - drink lots of water, fill a small plate with veggies, and flirt with the cutest guy there. - in other words I think she was telling me to shift the focus from food to the guys!

Hi Cathy! You are doing terrific! - is that really 6 pounds since 3/30???

I'll be in and out this weekend- hope everyone has a great one!

Julie

[haylo921]

Well I just got back from WI I have lost a total of 3 pounds. YEAH

Of course they tried to sucker me into buying LA Lites by telling me they would sell it to me for the low,low price of 1,000 something dollars. I looked at the girl like she was crazy and told her that I am in graduate school and if can not afford to live in my own apartment and that is why I live with my parents right now, then I can definatly not buy 1,000 dollars of LA lites. Of course when I asked about the LA lites and told her that it says they are optional she told me that they have to put that in the manual so that people with medical reason do not feel like they can't do the program. I then asked her what I could subsitute in place of the LA lites for the weeks when I don't have to money to buy them, and she said we will let you know. I told her that since she gave me a lot of samples I was okay for now, but after that we needed to come up with an alternative. I do have to admit they are tasty and do satisfy any sweet craving that I might have.

Starlynn,Texjewel,and Fiona: thanks for the tips on going to the starwberry festival. I think it will be okay. I will just take a vegtable tray with me (j/k). Hey, maybe I should and then I can sell it. You guys are right, my goal is to lose weight and eat healthier and I guess stuffing it isn't going to help the situation. But I do not that if I happen to slip to make sure to not cry over spilt milk and keep on going. Thanks

Fashnvictm: I think it was you that had asked me about the soy and hypothyroidism. I had the girl call the nutritionist and the nutritionist said that there was not enough soy in the product to cause interactions with thyroid function/thyroid medication. Just thought I would let you know.

[haylo921]

TextJewel: You got me thinking I kind of like the idea of talking to cute guys better then I do eating. Interesting point from star! After all I am single.

[textjewel]

Haylo- Star is terrific on that kind of thing. Also, congrats on being down 3! And for holding your ground on the lites. One thing several of us do, is substitute Luna bars for the lites - they have about the same amount of cals and other macronutrients. . you can get lots off of ebay, or from Amazon (I think Michelle does that??) But, truthfully, if you can do it without a daily lite/luna fix, you're better off.

Hugs!
Julie

[textjewel]

Oh, Sy, I added WW low carb tortilla's to my stash this week. Do you count one as two S or one? I think they'd be awesome with those laughing cow wedges spread over it and some vegies on top of it. . .

[mandyd26]

Howdy-
I just tried the luna bars for the first time. I thought I was going to die of happiness after eating the smore's one. YUM :T So I went to the store and bought 5 more. :)

Solocat-welcome!

Fiona-Great advice. I am still kicking myself for just eating 1 bad meal last week. I gained 2 pounds from it. Yuck!

Haylo-I'm sure you'll have a good time. Just try to stick close to the plan, but still enjoy yourself.

Julie-I do have something that I really want!! A suede leather jacket. I found two that I wanted the other day and drooled. My husband will be getting it for me once I reach goal. Although I know I could get the size I want now. I think I'm pretty much in the size up top that I'm going to be 11 pounds from now. I also want a new pair of shoes. I usually just walk around in flip flops. Even in Washington with all of this rain. :) The one thing I've done is I would buy one pair of jeans for almost every new size that I would get in to. I didn't have to buy the higher sizes because I had a lot of those clothes that were sort of still in style. Once I hit 14's and 12's I needed to get some different pants. I think I bought some 16's also, because I was at that size on my birthday, so I treated myself. Right now. I'm trying my hardest not to buy any new pants because I'm so close to a true size 8.

Anyway I'm just rambling on. I have nothing better to do right now. :) My DH won't be home for another few hours and I'm avoiding housework. I will talk to you all later. I'll be online this weekend also. I'm always here. :)

Mandy

[mandyd26]

when I say a true size 8, I just mean one that I can wear in public. :)

[solocat]

Thanks for the great welcomes!

Julie - yep, that was 6 pounds since 3/31. I have a funny feeling it was H2O weight, but a loss is a loss!

When I refused the LA Lites, I was switched from the purple plan to the red one and it added up to one more starch and a half of a protein. I bought some Balance bars, just because the textire and taste is very similar to the LA Lites. I wonder if the same company makes them both and packages them differently? I did like the LA Lites, especially the Chocolate Crunch! But it would have crunched the pocket book :nono: I saw Julie's hint about the Lunas....and I do like those. So next time!

RWF...good luck with tomorrow's WI. I am thinking I may make the effort to go up and get a WI - waiting until Monday is too long!

How long did it take you all to figure out how many P's, S's, etc, etc recipes you have were equal to? I have lots of low-cal recipes, guess I need to sit down and do some calculating.

Time to go task! Thanks for the great site!

Cathy

[haylo921]

Solocat: You asked the same question I had. I think the suggestion from LAWL is to eat things seperatly. But I too have lots of low-cal recipes and always wonder how I could work them in.

Everyone else thanks for the suggestions on the bars.