"JUST DO IT!"challenge [Archive] - 3 Fat Chicks on a Diet Weight Loss Community

TBJ333

11-01-2005, 04:11 PM

Happy New Challenge, everyone! (Kind of like New Year, when so many people make that resolution to improve their health... fortunately, we can make that resolution every day in this group... :D )

My plan for the next four weeks:
1. Eat no more than one serving of junk food per day, with my monthly exception, which will be Thanksgiving. (SURPRISE!!! :lol: )

My goal:
1. Weight goal to be determined after I buy a scale in another week. :)

***
MsRD -- Thank you for setting up the new challenge. The theme of "just do it" is great. That theme seems to be what everyone in our group needs right now.

Eilsha -- You sound positive, as always. Good luck with the onion ring challenge tonight. Visualize a lion jumping through a ring of fire in a circus. You can jump through those onion rings! :p

Julie -- Swearing off sugar? Girl, that is HARD! As for gaining weight while starting an exercise program, when I started biking, I made up for the physical tiredness by eating a lot. In my mind, I convinced myself that three hours on a bike could let me eat double my normal amount of food and still lose weight. In reality, I couldn't eat as much more as I thought I could. Are you perhaps thinking that your exercise burns more calories than it really does, and overeating

Joy -- You're very specific about your plan. I bet you can do it.

Rosie -- Welcome! You are so right about journaling every bite of food. Yesterday my husband offered me a snack candybar and a cookie... seemingly small treats, but they would have added 150 calories to my day. So it is good to remember that we have to keep track of what we eat.

Timeforachange -- Welcome! Posting here regularly will definitely help you.

***
OK, how about a discussion? It would be nice to hear people's thoughts about the last challenge (or for Rosie and Timeforachange, what you've noticed about your recent weight-loss attempts.) I'm curious what successes people have had, what failures, what they could have done differently, what their main obstacles are, why you are hopeful for the future.

And everyone, let's each pick one small, itty-bitty realistic way we can take action to lose weight during this challenge, and JUST DO IT. I so badly want us all to be successful, because right now we all seem to be in a slump, and we have to get over it!!!

My action will be that sometime during this challenge, I formally will set up some sort of regular exercise program here in my new town, such as joining a gym or picking a particular walking route.

Happy Tuesday, everyone.

Betani

11-01-2005, 05:47 PM

I've discovered that I'm far more likely to fall off the wagon if I try to change too many things at the same time. That's why I'm only focusing on exercise this month. If I can ingrain that into my habits once and for all, I won't even have to think about it when I form my next habit.

The last challenge left me mindful of what needs to be done, and with several half-formed habits that I now need to cement.

miss_elisha

11-01-2005, 06:10 PM

TBJ--I like your discussion idea! I've already taken my action though, in the form of Yourself! Fitness. My action is to exercise on a regular basis and to stick with it and actually do it on the days I say I will do it, even if it means 10 minutes of marching in place. I feel so motivated right now, I wish I could send each one of you a little portion of my motivation.

I'm just the opposite of Betani--I have to do it all at once, exercise, diet, and water, all at the same time, or I'm like "why bother?" I've just got to go "cold turkey" with the bad stuff.

I look back at last spring when I was actually losing steadily, and really I didn't do anything amazing. I think about what I ate and did and what my life was like at that point. I'm still amazed at some of the things I ate--lunch was a Lean Pocket, some fat-free potato chips, and a diet soda almost every day. I never snacked, because I never had time (working retail, didn't get breaks to snack). I'm eating so much healthier now--I'm actually eating fruit and vegetables! I guess I'm just eating too much of the healthy stuff. (No, that's not it--I'm just eating too much other stuff too.) But the main thing I did was not let anything stand in my way. I was getting on that treadmill, no matter what else was going on. Of course, I didn't really have a life at that point--no BF, barely even any friends, no social activity to speak of--so there were a lot less things getting in the way.

But the thing is, I learned that it's possible, and that I CAN lose weight. It wasn't even that tough. After I got started, it seemed to happen almost automatically. So it CAN be done. I just have to switch that flip again, and the weight will come off. I CAN do it.

I did have an idea though (I stole this from someone on the Yourself! Fitness site): you know those committment bracelets you can buy packs of? Well, we could get a pack of those, sign them, and mail them to each other. That way we have a real tangible reminder that there is someone out there rooting for us. (It would be great if we could send them around and all sign one for all of us, but the logistics of that is a little much.) Actually, it doesn't even have to be bracelets, just something physical that we can carry with us wherever we go, something we can look at an instantly refocus. If you chicks like that idea, I'm willing to get it going.

Also, I was going through some random files on my computer last night, and I found my old quotes and questions. What would you chicks (those of you that remember, anyway) think about me starting that up again? For those of you who weren't around for that, I just posted a daily inspirational quote or question to get us thinking. Anyone up for that again?

OK, I think I've rambled enough for now. I'm so ready to leave this stupid office! Today has been the longest day ever!

Have a good evening, chickies!
~Elisha

scale_challenged

11-01-2005, 06:24 PM

I am totally new to this site...but I'm in!! I could use a challenge to kick my behind back into gear. I hope you don't mind another joining in!

My Plan:
Drinking more water...this has always been a major issue for me!
Exercise at least 45 mins a day....I was already up to 35 so 10 extra should be doable
Watch my carbs!...always tough around the holidays
Lose 10 pounds by Dec. 1 (although I'd be thrilled with 5--DREAM BIG!)

babsisawinner

11-01-2005, 06:59 PM

I'm in!

Just registered.
So I'm a newbee.
Also new to using a message board...in fact really new to using a computor...
So someone please send me a message so I know you are out there and that I did the 'right stuff' to reach you...Thanks, thanks, thanks

I think this challenge sounds great...I need the support, and I'm willing to give support.

I've been doing Jenny Craig for 3 weeks...already I've gotten to 'that place'...you know where...telling myself "I can't do it"

So my # one goal is to tell myself at least every hour of every day:

1. YES YOU CAN! ...also
2. 9 to 12 pounds off by Xmas...How?
3. Follow the J C plan
4. Drink lot's of water
5. Go to gym at least 3 times a week
6. Use positive affirmations
7. Communicate
8. Ask for help

Extrinsic Rapture

11-01-2005, 07:36 PM

OK, how about a discussion? It would be nice to hear people's thoughts about the last challenge (or for Rosie and Timeforachange, what you've noticed about your recent weight-loss attempts.) I'm curious what successes people have had, what failures, what they could have done differently, what their main obstacles are, why you are hopeful for the future.

And everyone, let's each pick one small, itty-bitty realistic way we can take action to lose weight during this challenge, and JUST DO IT.

Ohhh discussion Q's....now we're talking ;)
Well I can talk about the last challenge because I participated in one of my own (same title but ended earlier, 'cause it started earlier). I learned to look at the whole picture. I lost almost 12 inches but very little weight (like 2 lbs). I still fail to stay away from confiding in junk food during bad/stressful times. My main obstacle is staying in routine. I tend to lose focus on my health goals alot (which is why I love finding new challenges). I wouldnt say I'm hopeful for the future. Although I wish I were. Right now unfortunately I'm just trying to get through each day, if I even do that successfully.

My small action would be to be mindful (recording, measuring, paying attn). When I went on vacation in august, I recorded everything and it helped me to find the caloric intake I needed to get to losing again. Now to get back to recording, and being in that range I need once again.

Rosie

MsRD

11-01-2005, 11:00 PM

Hello!

Wow! Looks like we have a great group here! I'm off to a pretty good start.....1500 calories today and 30 minutes WATP.......starting a new challenge seems to energize me!

Joy....I liked Elisha's questions too.....and thank you for reprinting them here on this challenge. If we just stop and think about our reasons for eating.....they should be for nourishment and not entertainment!

Elisha......I liked your thoughts on establishing new habits and 'breaking old ones'.....those are always the hardest! You ARE transferring some of your high energy to us just by posting here! I remember your quotes/questions were always thought-provoking, so, by all means, post them here! I hope we can all contribute to keep our spirits up and make this challenge a success!

Betani.....focusing on just one thing and conquering it before moving on is perfect. I started with focusing on water.....and now it is something so ingrained that I don't even have to think about it.

Rosie.....Welcome! You are going to love this challenge and this group! I have to start journalling my food too.....it is the one way to make myself aware of what actually goes into my mouth.

Time4achange.....Your name says it all! I think we all were kinda stuck for the past week or so and are ready to make this challenge work for us! Getting more active is a good goal......were you thinking exercising or maybe getting into some kind of sport?

TBJ.....Yes, the slump we were all in is hereby cancelled! We are all ready for success! Cutting down on the junk food is such a good idea! Start reading those ingredient labels......some are downright scary!

Scalechallenged.....Welcome! We love new faces! Ten pounds off by Christmas is very realistic.....you can do it! As for the water, I just grab a water bottle and keep it with me throughout the day. If you keep the water handy, you will be surprised at how much you actually drink!

Babs.....Yep, you did eveything right and your post is right where it should be! Don't worry about being a newbie....this is a great group! You can do anything you put your mind to....just do it!

When the last challenge began, I was so discouraged and on the verge of just giving up......so I had a major turnaround to accomplish! I began my re-establishing the positive habits....drinking water, exercising, eating OP.....it was a rocky start, full of backsliding, and it sure didn't happen overnight! Like Betani, I feel like I have a base of good habits started, but they just need to be 'cemented' in.

JoyG56

11-01-2005, 11:46 PM

So what I said was

:welcome2: Extrinsic Rose, Scalechallenged, Time4achange & Babs.

:bravo: on your recent successes Rosie. 12" WOW

Elisha & TBJ I :love: the idea of discussions and topics.... the more we keep focused and see our options the better. I get lots of different tips and strategies from different sources that I will share too.

My ONE ITTY BITTY LITTLE THING will be journalling. I journal on Fitday if anyone can figure out how to read entries there let me know ....Help Elisha
(suttle aren;t I?) :write:

MsRD... :thanks: Thanks for setting up the new challenge. I'm so glad that you are seeing success and staying with the eating plan and getting your exercise in. So tell me ... how did you get rid of the "evil treat or treats". I still have some left... cookies too ... UGH they are calling my name but I'll resist. :cookie:

Well .....hmmm .... that's all I can remember... it's getting past my bedtime... plus I'm old. :rolleyes: and I got distracted by the thought of cookies .....

Extrinsic Rapture

11-02-2005, 01:06 AM

My day in summary:

Things I'm proud of:
-Did 52 minutes of exercise: 20 min of Hula for weight loss in the afternoon; 30 minutes of upper body strength training this evening
-Kept confidence in my efforts despite my mother's hurtful words (saying I'm not getting employed b/c I'm fat (I just graduated college so I'm out on the job hunt))
-Recording ALL food today

Things needing tweaking:
-Didn't have an agenda today nor did I relax much
-Underestimated the caloric value of my day's foods (didn't go to over but not in proper range either)
-Wasn't willing to listen to someone else's point of view during a discussion ( i have stubborn tendencies :o )

Rosie

hikein2005

11-02-2005, 08:41 AM

OMG...I'm sorry for not posting yesterday. First of all...Welcome to all the new chickies! What a suprise to see so many new faces here! YEA!!!!

MsRD...Thanks for setting this up! Great job!

Elisha...I love your idea of the comittment bracelets and also doing the questions and quotes right here! I can help with that...it might give me some "purpose" this time around. I find that if I am involved more, I tend to be more accountable! ;)

I'm still working on trying to figure out what I'm doing this month! But it will involve more exercise, and perhaps that is what I need to focus most on. Since walking is really not much of an option, I will focus on biking and toning! And I still keep thinking about hitting Weight Watchers to just get this first 10lbs back off! The thing is, I KNOW what I have to do, but for some reason, it just isn't happening! And since I came back from vacation (I was at 172 then), I have gained 7 lbs! HOw did that happen? Anyway...I will post my "real" goals tonight sometime

Yesterday I had a good day food wise, but no exercise which was actually in the plan for my day. My calories yesterday were wonderful until I was alone in the house on the couch in front of the TV last night...I heard the icecream was having a party and I was invited!!! YIKES!!! So I got up and ate some right from the carton! After such a great day caloricly...it was like pure sabbotage! I didn't have ANY sugar the rest of the day, either! Grrrrr!

OK...today is a new day! I am having some wierd cramps and stomach pain this morning, so I am having tea (which I should drink every day instead of coffee!) and a bagel (instead of my usual Slimfast with protein). Cold food did not sound good! I will have leftovers for lunch today. And I haven't figured out supper yet, but I'm thinking salad sounds good! I'm just wanting to get through the day, but when I get home, I will post more to each of you!

As I said, so great to see all of you here! I'm going to try to get Lisa to come back...and maybe Jennifer, but she's pretty busy with Hurricaine clean up and moving into their new house! Lisa did say she would check in, and that was a week ago, so...I'll be getting with her for sure!!

Hugs to all!

miss_elisha

11-02-2005, 09:55 AM

What do you most want to accomplish by losing weight?

The number on the scale isn't an end in itself. No matter what weight we're aiming for, there's always another reason we want to get there. Perhaps you want to get back down to your "fighting weight," or maybe you just want to get in better shape. Or maybe you just want to fit into a size 8 (or 10 or 4 or whatever it is). Maybe you're trying to get healthy. Maybe you're looking for some self-confidence (although on that score, losing weight is only half the battle, IMHO). So what is it you're after, and why?

miss_elisha

11-02-2005, 10:38 AM

Morning chickies!

Wow, we're off to a great start, aren't we? How lovely to have all of these new friends!

:welcome2: to babsisawinner and scale_challenged! It's wonderful to have you with us! You've both got some great goals set up, and we're all here to cheer you on!

Now let's get cracking!

Let's see, comments first, so I don't forget!

Julie: Something I've noticed with both of us--evenings are a problem. For me, it's not necessarily late night snacking that gets me, I just seem to have no willpower at dinner time (second helping? sure, why not!). Also, we've both been heading in the wrong direction for far too long, and I think it's high time we change that! So there was ice cream--that's over now. You didn't have any sugar the rest of the day, and that is an improvement, right? As for Lisa and Jennifer, it would be great to see them back! I hope they are doing well. Jennifer is moving into her new house already? How time flies! Anyway, try to drag them back if you can, but if not, send them my best. :)

Rosie: You had a good day! WTG on the exercise! Your mother actually said that to you?!? Finding a job is not easy, no matter what size you are. Besides, you're working to improve yourself, and that has to count for something. 12 inches?! That's amazing, no matter how many pounds it amounts to! You should be proud!

Joy: I'm afraid I don't use the journals in FitDay... haven't used FitDay at all in a while. But if I have some spare time at the office I will investigate and let you know what I figure out. ;) In the meantime, I suggest finding a notebook and writing everything out on paper. Sometimes that helps me more anyway, since I am more likely to go back and read that.

MsRD: Woohoo! Sharing the love! hehe... Good job on the calories and the exercise! Kicking it off on the right food! No giving up for you--we'll tazer you!

Babs: You're doing fine! Are you liking the Jenny Craig program so far? Can I ask, what are some of the positive affirmation you are using (if you don't mind my asking)? Your goals look good, and just remember, WE are here to communicate with, and we're always here to help. All you have to do is ASK!

Scale_Challenged: Drinking water is a big help, probably more than you realize. I always notice a difference in how I feel if I don't drink enough water one day. It's not pretty. But I am probably THE water advocate/drinker of the group. I find, like MsRD said, if it's there, I just keep drinking. Water has that effect on me more than any other beverage--I can let a bottle of soda set for hours, but water? No way, that stuff is gone!

TBJ: How are you doing on your No Junk Food diet? I hope you're enjoying the island and settling in!

Betani: How did you do today? Get in your exercise?

Time4aChange: How did you do today? Did you drink your water? Exercise?

Question of the Day: What do I want to accomplish most by losing weight?
First and foremost in my mind is looking good. Perhaps that's shallow, but I never claimed not to be. I've got a cruise coming up, and a vacation, and eventually a wedding. I want to look good for the first time in my life. And, of course, I want to get fit and be in shape and prepared for when I have kids. I want my body to support me through an easy pregnancy, and I want to have the energy to chase my kids around and play games with them and do all the fun activities that parents should do with their kids. Most of all, I want to set a good example for my kids by showing them what a healthy life looks like.

OK, now that all that mandatory stuff is out of the way, it's time to say something about ME! hehe... (can you tell I'm feeling corny today?)

Well, yesterday... hmm... not the best of days. I felt hungry all freaking day. And not just "Oh, I could eat something," but literally tummy-growling hungry. So I was snacking all day yesterday. There was an incident with Halloween candy, although that was not extreme. But then there were the chicken wings, and the onion rings, and celery with lots of blue cheese. I did share the onion rings with my brother, so I guess it could have been worse. In any case, I felt gross afterwards, and guilty. I just shouldn't go out to eat at all, I never do well.

Bowling was fun though. I managed to match my best score ever, but I also managed to almost match my low score ever. And there was this guy who kept trying to give us advice, but really he was only being annoying and telling us all the things we were doing wrong. Umm.... yeah, I know I suck at bowling, you don't have to point it out to me. I'm perfectly aware that the ball is not supposed to end up in the gutter, thankyouverymuch. :p

Well, now that I've proclaimed I should never go out to eat, we're going out to eat again tonight. Steve offered to take me to the Chinese buffet, but luckily for my diet he asked me while I was in the midst of feeling guilty about eating all those wings, so I said no. I imagine we'll end up eating at Subway. I've actually been craving a turkey sandwich, so that would be a good thing, and healthy too (even though there will probably be some SunChips or Baked Doritos in there too). Then football game! Yay! So there will be some walking this evening, and lots of squats (in the form of stand up, sit down, stand up, sit down). I will try not to eat food at the stadium, but no promises. There's just something about sporting events that says you have to have a hot dog or a pretzel or *something.* I know, I know. BAD girl, Elisha. JUST SAY NO! Diet Coke is acceptable.

Let's see, what else? OH! We're taking a trip to Cincinnati this weekend. Steve's sister is having her very first art gallery show, so their whole family is going. I imagine his parents will put us up in a hotel, since Caroline's apartment is fairly small, but we'll see. Chances are food won't be great, but I will try to do my best, and I will try to exercise. I don't know what the schedule for the weekend is just yet, but I'll figure it out.

Also, we spoke to the realtor, who spoke to the listing agent of the house we're trying to buy, who said that we should hear something either today or tomorrow. I sure hope it's today. I'm tired of waiting! I just want my stinking house already! :tantrum:

OK, I think that's enough from me for the moment. I need to get some work done. Have a good one, chickies!
~Elisha

TBJ333

11-02-2005, 02:05 PM

Hi everybody --

First day of the Very Little Junk Food Diet (I like the caps, Elisha :) ) went well. It was hard not to have a little piece of chocolate, or a small glass of soda, or "just one more dinner at a restaurant." But I managed to keep to my promise.

Yes, I am game for inspirational quotes and real-world stuff-sending. In fact, I bought craft string so that I could make some friendship bracelets for people back on the mainland. So I have the supplies all ready. How convenient. :cool:

QOTD -- I want to lose weight so that I can avoid Type II diabetes. My father has it now, after a lifetime of obesity and alcoholism. I rarely drink, but my weight crept up on me during college and the first years of law school, so I will learn from what happened to my dad. I need to concentrate on staying healthy through adulthood.

Also, I enjoy shopping for clothes and feeling confident about the way I look. I have a lot of tattoos, which bring attention to me (not why I have them, but I still get the attention). I feel like if everyone is looking at me, I should look better. :p

Will comment tomorrow. Happy day, everyone.

Extrinsic Rapture

11-02-2005, 02:10 PM

What do you most want to accomplish by losing weight?
So what is it you're after, and why?

I want to be able to have the knowledge that I did this for me. I want to feel my age. Lately I look at myself and don't feel like I'm in my 20s...don't feel like I look like someone in their 20s. I want to be fearless. And I feel that one of the things to help that is accomplishing my goal. I'd know that I unmasked all my layers of pain, shame, vulnerability and sometimes disgust and that after all that, I'm still whole.

Rosie

Weighed in today: .6 lbs down, 5.4 to go :carrot:

Betani

11-02-2005, 03:03 PM

QOTD:

Yes, I would like to wear the smaller sizes and feel sexier, but I think the thing that presses me most to get to an ideal weight is that I have no access to my medical history. I am adopted and have absolutly no desire to find my birth parents. I have no idea if I have any family history risks for anything, so I just want to live as healthy as I possibly can, while not making myself miserable.

As far as today goes, I did get 30 minutes of aerobics in this morning, but it was hard to drag my butt out of bed. I think I discovered part of the problem. One of the new meds my doctor has me on for my cough has codeine in it, and that probably makes me want to sleep much longer than usual. I don't know whether to get the one refill I have left and just live with this tiredness until I finish it, or to chuck the syrup (still taking the brain med, though) and get my sleep schedule back on track.

Rosie-- That is a great reason for losing weight. Doing it just for yourself is more effective motivation than anything else.

TBJ-- I know several people who have diabetes, and you're right. I want to learn from them so I never put myself at risk for it. Glad today is going well so far!

Elisha-- Unless wanting to look good is an all consuming passion, that's not all that shallow. Looking good = feeling good which leads to motivation to keep getting healthy.

Hikein-- Ice cream is a suicide hypnotist. It does everything in it's power to convince you to eat it. It's really good at it, too! Don't get down about it, though. You can always pick up right where you left off.

missgreen

11-02-2005, 04:30 PM

I've been challenging myself a lot lately, so I need some public/online challenging!

My plan:

mini goal: 10lbs down
how? 3 meals, 2 snacks a day via glycemic index.
I'm happy with my meal habits, I've been sticking to a healthy routine for 2 years now... but
I work at home, I don't go out much, and I don't move much...
I've only managed to lose and keep off a little over 50lbs in 2 years, by making eating less a perment habit.. but the real acheivement is that I feel a million times better! So, even though it doesnt show on the scale, I've really been working on feeling great and happy. So I feel totally successful in that aspect.
But I know I can pick up the pace through exercise.
so my challenge is,
fitness?
So my fitness goal is to exercise for 1 hour everyday and then hopefully I'll lose 10lbs this month. However, its not just about the pounds, I want to feel better on a constant basis. On the days I exercise, I glow for about 48 hours thereafter just from 1 exercise session. Exercise is pretty amazing...
I've done an average of 20 minutes aerobics and belly dancing most days in October. It resulted in a 5 lbs loss.
I'm glowing today, I did some aerobics to my favorite dvd, Fitness with Bliss Standing aerobics higher intensity.

Maybe I'm more forgetful than lazy. you know, the day winds down, and then I get sidetracked...
So thats another goal, stop forgetting. remember to exercise!

missgreen

11-02-2005, 04:44 PM

What do you most want to accomplish by losing weight?

Seriously, I want it to be something that doesnt harp on my mind anymore. I want to be free. I don't want to be obsessed for the rest of my life. I want to reach the goal, maintain, and then keep up with the habit like its not a big deal. One less stress, one less worry...
The most annoying part of it, is that it feels like a chore, something that I tell myself, you have to get this done, youre putting it off... so yeah, its not right to avoid it, and then it just follows me everywhere I go.
The whole issue gets on my nerves, like its an internal nag.
I want to be nag free!

Anthony Robbins says, discipline is a way of achieving freedom.
I totally think that NOT putting off exercise, will set me free... I have a HUGE internernal nag that I have to start listening to when it comes to fitness.

wnnabthin

11-02-2005, 04:45 PM

I really want to join this challenge so that I can help motivate...and feel motivated! It is November 2nd...so I'm a little late.

My goal is to drink 80 oz. of water daily....Log all foods into FitDay....and exercise even if it is only for 15 minutes daily.

Right now I am hit and miss. Consistancy is my issue....PLEASE HELP!

http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/img/tulip-bar/slider-but5/lb/0/45/7/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/index.php)

wnnabthin

11-02-2005, 05:09 PM

Elisha - You are sooooo right about sporting events. My husband would live there if he could, and eat cheesy everything. I completely understand. Your postings make me smile. It's okay to eat the bad things....periodically, and in small portions! You can do it!!!

Heiken - I am in the same place that you are. I work hard, try and try again...and the scale barely budges. I don't know what I am doing wrong. I guess stopping off at the Dairy Queen on the way home from the office probably doesn't help. ;) The worst part of that is I stopped off at a gas station to get rid of the evidence so that my husband wouldn't notice!!! Shameful......He and I have our own version of "Biggest Loser" going on. So far he's winning by .6%. And with my slowdown....I can't catch up. The final weigh in day is December 31, 2005 at 8:00 AM. Winner takes $500.00 to spend selfishly! NO PRESSURE!!! :lol:

Rosie - Two words for you GREAT JOB!!! Don't allow anyone to bring you down. My mother says hurtful things about me, just to make herself feel better...so I can empathize!

I want to lose weight so that I can shift focus. Focus less on what I look like and more on what I have to offer. Free my mind so to say. I went clothes shopping recently and nearly passed out when I stood in the dressing room with all those mirrors. I didn't realize how big I was. That is what has driven me here.

We can do this! Together! I look forward to the friendships and the successes!

http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/img/tulip-bar/slider-but5/lb/0/45/7/.png (http://www.3fatchicks.com/weight-tracker/index.php)

miss_elisha

11-02-2005, 05:47 PM

:welcome: missgreen and wnnabthin!

Missgreen: I can SOOO relate to your wanting to be free. I have this constant dialogue going on in my head about food--what I can eat, when I get to eat it, how long it's going to be until my next food, etc... I want it to be gone. I don't want to have to worry about it so much. GREAT job on your progress so far! 50 pounds is amazing! And you're right--the best part is how much better you feel.

Wnnabthin: Glad I can make you smile! I must say, though, that I am feeling particularly energetic and corny these past few days. I assure you I am not always this goofy. Well, ok, maybe I am, but I don't always type all of my goofiness into my posts. I go through my phases, just like every other Gemini on the planet. As for dressing rooms... I honestly think they would sell WAY more clothes if they only put one small mirror in there. :lol:

It sounds like a lot of us are aiming for consistent exercise, even if it's only a few minutes a day, the whole point being just to do it (because you all know as well as I do, chances are if you start moving you will keep going--it's a law of physics!). So, is anyone up for an exercise minutes challenge to kick off the month?

Just post your goal minutes for the next 7 days (Wednesday 11-02 through Tuesday 11-08), then post how many minutes you actually complete. It's that simple! If you'd prefer, you can keep track of miles walked or biked, # of exercise sessions, or whatever else you want to track, just so you have a goal and stick to it!

I'm going to figure out my schedule for my weekend trip before I set a goal, as I want this goal to be realistic. If I'm stuck in a car or doing family activities with Steve's family from 6am Saturday to 10pm Sunday, exercise is not very realistic for me, and I know that. I don't think it will be that bad, but we'll see.

OK, time for me to get to the football game! Have a great evening, chickies!
~Elisha

MsRD

11-02-2005, 09:08 PM

Hi Chickies!

I just read your posts and you really have me pumped! Everyone is doing such a good job in setting goals and planning how you are going to achieve them! Today, I kept the calories down to 1300....and there will be 30 minutes w/Leslie after I finish here!

Joy.....Good idea on the food journalling.....I just have a little spiral notebook to scribble my daily food into and then just log on to a calorie-counter database to find what the damage is. As for the evil Halloween treats......I think I mentioned before that I ATE THEM! Not the best way to get rid of goodies, but certainly the most efficient.

Rosie....Wow! You are doing great! 52 minutes of exercise....you are one motivated chickie! It must be hard when you Mom criticizes you...and I am glad you are getting past that and can deal with it. Sometimes Moms just want so badly for their kids to have wonderful idealized lives that their 'encouragement' gets a little sharp. As for that 'stubborn' streak......if indeed it is true.....make it work for you in this challenge! We have to be a little more than a little stubborn to stick out a weight loss regmen!

Julie....So glad you checked in! When you can't get in the exercise you want, you have to be even more vigilant when it comes to food. Make your life easier by getting on that bike and going......or do I have to get that tazer out again?

Elisha....It is sooo tempting to go out to eat when you come home tired and don't feel like cooking....I never give DH an argument when he suggests it! Not only do you have to be mindful of the choices you make, but also the portion size!

TBJ.....Great first day on the Very Little Junk Food diet! The first day is always the hardest....so tomorrow should be a piece of cake (whoops....I mean carrot stick)

Betani.....Even though you didn't feel like it, you got your exercise in this morning! Good for you! Be careful with those meds, chicklet, as I would rather you were a little sleepy than risked a relapse at this point.

MissGreen.....Welcome! Looks like you have those healthy eating habits down like a pro! by adding daily exercise, you are sure to see positive results! "discipline is a way of achieving freedom".....how very true! Those naggy little voices will go completely away if we accomplish what we are supposed to!

Wnnabthin.....Wow! Another new face! We're glad you are here! You have all the essentials.....drink water, log food and exercise.....now, JUST DO IT!

What do I want to accomplish by losing weight? I think of adopting a healthy lifestyle as a kind of health insurance.....won't bore you with the details, but there are an abundance of chronic conditons and illnesses in my family tree....many of which are caused/aggravated by being overweight. I know that living healthy doesn't guarantee that I will live to be 100, but perhaps I can bypass the worst of it for awhile yet!

Extrinsic Rapture

11-02-2005, 11:00 PM

My day in summary:

Things I'm proud of:
-Did 18 minutes of exercise: 1 mi of Leslie Sansone Brisk Walk (good b/c I didnt want to do anything)
-Kept within day's caloric range (under/at 2100; more than 1950)
-Recording ALL food today

Things needing tweaking:
-Still allowing emotions to dictate my day (was so emotionally exhausted I didnt do much but concentrate on my diet)
-Wayyy under day's needed water intake (only drank one cup!)

Rosie

Extrinsic Rapture

11-02-2005, 11:50 PM

I'm in for the exercise minutes challenge; My goal's 140 minutes for the week (I can't do daily). 18/140 done so far.

Julie: Sorry to hear about your stomache...hope you're feeling better

Elisha: Hope you get the house you want; sorry about your eating fiasco yesterday; hope today was better; yes my mother actually said i wasnt getting employed cause im fat...i think she's the :devil: LOL

TBJ: Good going on sticking to your minimal junk food diet

Betani: Hope your cold goes away soon so that you won't have to take that icky medicine and will feel more energized

MissGreen: Great goals; congrats on your loss so far

Wnnab: You aren't late for the challenge; take things one day at a time- habits are learned. I'm sure things will look up once you get the hang of things

MsRD: I'll try to make my stubborness work for me; but its hard. Good going on achieving your day's goals!

Don't kno if I'll be able to do personals each day. But it was fun writing to everyone who posted today. "See" ya tomorrow!

Rosie :carrot:

JoyG56

11-03-2005, 12:11 AM

:wave: Evening everyone....
:welcome3: Missgreen & Wnnabthin

WOW ... lots of great comments. Unfortunately I don't have time to respond to everyone tonight (I've been procrastinating about doing homework for four nights now... and Saturday is coming), but I will try to keep up to date and let you know what's going on with me.

Yesterday, I ended up not journalling, because after I posted last night I had an "extreme hallowe'en treat attack" and didn't want to face all those calories ... so I just DIDN'T do it. I think I will use a book and just figure out the calories on line... maybe I'll JUST DO IT then.

Today wasn't too bad, although I did have :cookie: :cookie: :cookie: :cookie: I drank only 32 oz of water so far... okay I'm off to grab a big cup of herbal tea (counts for water).

I went for a brisk 15 minute walk during my morning coffee break. I'm going to try to go twice a day... my current walking partner isn't too reliable ... so I'm trading her in for a new one :lol:

Elisha .. Yup ... okay I'm in for 420 exercise minutes by next Tuesday, November 8th. Thirty minutes a day IS DOABLE. 15/420 todate

I'm doing some real "soul" searching about the real reason for my weight loss goals. It get's pretty obvious when you're 100 pounds over weight that there are health issues. And like I said "I'm old" but I'd like to get older ... and be healthy, happy and pain free. There's other things too, I'd like people to see me for who I am and not have to judge me on my "lack of control" over my food, I'd like to be seen as a confident and successful person, and face it there is definate prejudice in peoples' minds when you are obese. I'd like to think that I could get away from having to worry about what I eat by developing good life long healthy eating and exercise habits. I know I do enjoy eating healthy and exercising and enjoy the way it makes me feel when I JUST DO IT.... not just the euphoria (sp?) or high after exercising ... but the way that it makes me feel to be in CONTROL and SUCESSFULL at something that's important to me, personally. :shrug:

Rosie Hang in there chickie.... You know that you can do anything that you try to. Don't let MOM get you down. It's funny, as a child I remember always knowing that I could do anything if I just tried hard enough. I know that it wasn't my Mom or Dad telling me those things, but I believe we all have "help" when we need it - so listen to your own intuitions and remember you have us all of us cheering you on. I'll never forget when Elisha finally told us about her "first big girl job". I know alot of my comments previous spoke about the attitudes towards heavy people, but attitudes are changing and people do look beyond the surface ... a lot of my comments are based on personal influencies when I was growing up... like I said "I'm old". :rolleyes:

Hmm ... I said this was gonna be short :rofl3: I know verbal diahreah (sp)... I'm off to hit the books.... by the way I did jot down my food, exercise and water before I logged off here.... All is good in the world.

:grouphug:

JoyG56

11-03-2005, 12:22 AM

Ever get the urge to snack on something crunchy while watching a movie or working at your desk? It might be part reflex and part hunger, but there's also something really satisfying about the act of chewing. Instead of reaching for chips or other high-calorie, high-fat snacks, try 2 cups of air-popped popcorn, 3 rice cakes, 1/2 cup of unsweetened cereal, or raw vegetables. You'll get the crunch you need without the calories!

missgreen

11-03-2005, 07:03 AM

Miss_Elisha: There was this episode on Oprah, about these people who thought they were SOOOO UGLY, they hated themselves, and its stopped them from living. Although, these people were REALLY good looking... Of course, I'm fat, and that to a lot of people its not beautiful... but to me, when I see overweight people, I think the opposite. And I think, overweight people are down on themselves unfairly, and wrongly, more like I am too. And its just not right.
In the past 2 years, I've taken HUNDREDS maybe even thousands of photos of myself. lol Its become one of my part time hobbies. I LOVE to record myself on webcam while I'm exercising, because it motivates me to exercise more... and then I watch it, and see how I can improve. But part of the transformation process, is the goal to feel more beautiful and to see more beauty in myself, and to feel happy and free and healthy of course comes first... but feeling ugly due to the weight, is an old, long time habit... and I just think it turns into a trap, and when someone feels ugly, they just get deeper in it...
I think its a huge thing with women and their weight. So I am putting a lot of effort on a daily basis on trying to feel pretty, HEAD TO TOE, not just on the head and face! lol
Most fat women have the prettiest faces, I've noticed, but they neglect the body... I'm starting to gain a new appreciation for the love and admiration of my body.
I think positivity and self love multiplies itself, and makes you want to love and pamper youself more. And thinking youre great and feeling great has to start somewhere.

Hey Joy! My moms bday is June 1st also! I love Gems! I'm doing the soul searching thing too. I drink tons of tea too. Have you ever tried Chocolate tea? I'm about to order some online. I'm a recovering chocoholic, I'm doing low glycemic, so I've detoxed the kitchen from things that are bad. I believe in, controlling the environment, because controlling the self takes a long time. But the environment is much easier to control, and it helps to eventually control the habits. I learned it from Dr Phil.
Oh my gosh, 420 minutes by Nov 8th? haha I think I can do 100 mins. But maybe not... maybe 60? I'm going to try anyway. If I did 420 minutes... I'd have to buy myself a gift. lol

MsRD: Thanks for the new challenge! I'm also glad youre finding your power and finding new ways to get remotivated! ME TOO! I'm about to get my 20 mins minimum for the day! Its not the 1 hour like I want, but I've definately made it a #1 priority to do the 20 minutes. I re-evaluated my daily priorities, and I'm seeing exercise as being as valuable and essential as going to the bathroom or eating.
If I slack off for 3 days, I feel it, and I start feeling negative and like I'm going backward.

Extrinsic Rapture: Hi Rosie! You know... things are changing. And some people are asleep to the movement. Plus size, full figured, bbw's are MUCH more admired and accepted and in demand... I joined a bunch of the BBW dating sites online, WOW, what luck! SWAMPS OF MEN! WORSHIPPING MEN! HOT MEN! lol And I met one, WHO ADORES ME and my shape and size and he knows my weight! WHo loves bbw women! NOW I know you didnt say anything about boys... but, its all relevant. Love and career, go hand in hand. The process of finding a job is the same as finding a guy! lol And I notice people think, I need to lose weight to start dating, or to do this, or that. Funny, we're in the JUST DO IT challenge. I don't think any weight should stop anyone from being gorgeous and successful. So as far as getting a job and being successful, I promise you, weight will not be an issue in the corporate world in NY. You'll totally get quality work. I have some curvy friends out there who rule the corporate world. So don't worry about it.

scale_challenged

11-03-2005, 08:06 AM

OK ladies...

I was so busy yesterday with interviews(i am actually looking for p/t work after 10 yrs at home!) that i just wasn't able to post.

As for the excercise challenge--i have to say i am such a gym rat. I am there everyday almost 2 hours. I know you're thinking, ok 2 hours? I have made so many friends there we get to gabbing on the treadmill and i actually forget i am done and just keep on walking! lol

QOTD--I haven't and will not lose weight for a man, a job or anything. Its never happened that way and never will. However, I did lose weight for my kids. The days I refused to go to the pool because i felt huge and that all the other mothers would judge. All the amusement park rides i couldn't fit into. All the roller skating and laser tag games i sat out of because i just couldn't move. Those days are over! To me, losing weight and eventually reaching my goal means i can actually say yes to my children and live for them instead of sitting on the sidelines wishing i could.

OK so now that ive cried a bit....as far as food...did great yesterday. One of my mini goals is to ease up on the cheese. I swear I was a mouse in a former life! lol I controlled that yesterday.
Water--ladies I read what all of you posted for me about the water. I am going to try to keep a bottle with me at all times. I'll let you know if it works...if it does, anyone can do it cause i HATE water! lol

Well time to wake up the kids for school....

Connie

hikein2005

11-03-2005, 09:16 AM

Good Morning Chickies...
Because it IS a good morning whenever the sun shines! I've been sitting here reading all of these posts, but I've been thinking about exercising! Now...isn't that ridiculous? I should be down riding the bike, but decided I would post!

WAIT JUST A MINUTE HERE...I AM GOING TO STOP RIGHT HERE AND GO EXERCISE for 20 minutes!!! I'll be back!!!!

OK.........25 minutes later!!! I DID IT!!! I JUST DID IT!!! And I feel so much better....25 minutes on the bike! :bike: Lookit that smiley face!! LOL!
Yea me, Yea me!! :cheer:

OK...For the question of the day:
What do you most want to accomplish by losing weight and why?
I feel like I'm repeating myself because I've been doing these challenges for quite some time ;) , but for many of you, I'm a total stranger just like you are to me, so here goes:

1. To look better and wear a size 10! ;)
2. Because my family's history is full of heart disease, obesity and diabetes.
3. Because I want to be fit so I can continue to do things with my DD when I am 60 and 70 years old.
4. Because I want to climb more mountains!
5. Because I don't want to end up in a Nursing Home (which is where I work) because I never took care of myself!
6. Because I don't want to end up with orthopedic problems and I want this Plantar Fascitis to go away!
7. Because I have never been below a size 14 in my whole adult life and I want to prove to myself that I can do it!
8. Because I deserve it.
9. Because I have failed so many other times at weight loss and given up...this time I will not give up!
10. Because I believe I can JUST DO IT!!!

I'm sure there are a million other reasons, but those were the 10 I could think of this morning!

My goals:
To lose 5 lbs by Thanksgiving and another 5 by Christmas! That way, I will be back down where I was at the beginning of the summer and then at the New Year, I can start to really kick it up a notch!

You all have been so inspiring to me with all that you have said and done! I'm so proud of each one of you for the work you have done and the weight you have lost (even if you have gained some back)!

Exercise Challenge by next Tuesday: (Does today count?) OK...I'm going to really step out here and say that I will exercise EVERY DAY for at least 20 minutes until next Tuesday! But I am going to TRY to get in a total of 160 minutes

Gotta fly chickies...DD needs to get to school!

Hugs to all!

miss_elisha

11-03-2005, 10:08 AM

This was posted on the journals a few weeks ago, I believe by happytx, but I am too lazy to go through all of those journals to find the reference for it! But no matter where it came from, this list is certainly something to think about.

1. You are still looking for a quick-and-easy solution to weight loss.
2. You think that diet and exercise are the only essential factors in weight loss.
3. You have not identified the psychological reasons that drive your eating patterns.
4. You have not learned to manage or heal the psychological reasons that drive your eating patterns.
5. You have a fear of or resistance to growing up and becoming a full adult.
6. You use food as a reward or a treat after any or all stressful events.
7. You think you can lose weight without making exercise a regular part of your day, every day.
8. You think you can lose weight by doing it “your way.”
9. You expect to lose weight without making significant lifestyle changes.
10. You refuse to learn to become a good receiver as well as a good giver.
11. You have never learned to be effectively and appropriately assertive.
12. You have not learned to express your anger in a healthy, honest fashion.
13. You have not learned to be self-nurturing except with food.
14. You are excessively self-critical.
15. You resist or refuse to take responsibility for your life.
16. You resist learning to love yourself.
17. You resist learning to love your body before it is thin.
18. You have not faced your inner fears of being thin.
19. You are certain that spirituality (a connection to a force greater than you) is irrelevant to weight loss.
20. You think you can lose significant weight without the support of others.
21. You have deep emotional wounds that you refuse to explore and heal.
22. You are not prepared to have weight be an issue that you will have to face each and every day of the rest of your life.

O.K., now you have some incredibly important information about yourself and what is blocking your weight loss. You now have a choice. You can get depressed and go into denial or avoidance and eat or you can choose to make a renewed and informed commitment to your growth and well-being. This decision could change your life and your body for good. Decide. You can do it.

hikein2005

11-03-2005, 10:21 AM

Awesome Elisha! Thanks for posting that list! I know there are at least a few of those items that apply to me!
Julie

miss_elisha

11-03-2005, 10:59 AM

Good Mooooorrrrrnnnning Chicks!

What a beautiful day it is here in north-central West Virginia! The sun is shining, the air is cool and crisp (but not freeze-your-toes cold), I've got coffee, and I'm in a good mood!

I'll start out with comments, then move on to updates on yours truly. :spin:

Julie: WOOHOO! :encore: Way to go on the biking! And I know that a couple of us may be repeating ourselves on these questions/discussions, but I think that's ok. It's good to reaffirm your reasons for losing weight! It will help remind you of what you're doing and why, and that can help keep you on track.

Connie: 2 hours a day in the gym!?! :yikes: Egads, woman! But hey, it's a good thing, so keep it up! I didn't know if you wanted to be counted in our exercise challenge or not, so I didn't put you in the tally. Which is perfectly fine--the whole point is to give those of us who aren't working out enough something to work towards and a reason to get off our behinds, so if you've already got that base covered, there's no need. Kids are a great reason to get healthy--that's part of my reasoning as well. My parents have always been overweight, and I know that the lack of healthy eating and exercise in my youth contributed to my unhealthy lifestyle now. I don't want to do that to my kids, I refuse. As for the water... stick with it for a couple days and you will acquire the taste. If not, you could always use unsweetened tea, Crystal Light, or some of the new calorie-free flavored waters, like Fruit2Oh or Aquafina Flavor Splash, or make some KoolAid with Splenda instead of sugar, or add some lemon, lime, or orange to your water. Lots of options!

Missgreen: My former job was managing a cosmetics department, and I absolutely love being girly and making myself feel pretty. I'm all about wearing nice perfume (read: I had to go half way across the country to get the perfume I want!), makeup, high heels, manicures, pedicures, facials, the whole nine yards. Ask anyone--almost all of the rewards I give myself are of the girly variety! What I'm trying to say is, I agree. We can, and SHOULD feel pretty no matter what we weigh. I might weight 215 pounds today, but I'm stinking H-O-T! :yes: And my wonderful BF, Steve, tells me every day! The truth is, guys *love* curvy women! At the bowling alley every week, all the guys let me go first, and I say it's because they want to look at my butt. Yep, that's my story, and I'm sticking to it!

Joy: Thanks for adding the crunchyness tip! As an added bonus, I'll add a little tip of my own: to add flavor to air-popped popcorn without all the calories, add some LF Parmesan cheese--yummy, and a lot fewer calories than butter! Good job on the walking--15 minutes is a start! When my calories start to go bad my journaling always disappears too. Perhaps that is something we should focus on--journaling *no matter what.*

Rosie: 140 minutes is a fine goal! The point is to set a goal that challenges you, but is still realistic. It's not realistic for me to say I'll exercise daily either, because I know it isn't going to happen. But hey, 18 minutes is a good start! Keep it up and you'll have 140 minutes under your belt in no time! And it is hard to keep up with the individual comments every day, and we all know it, so if you slack off sometimes, no one is going to tazer you (we save that for slacking off on the diet and exercise :lol:). It happens. But if you can keep us updated on what's going on with you, and post comments when you can, that's great. Heck, I hardly ever used to post comments, and no one kicked me out! Then I got a job not doing much of anything but sitting in front of a computer all day, so I've got considerably more time to comment now. Perhaps the same could happen for you, you never know. Can I ask, just for curiosity's sake, what field are you in?

MsRD: WTG! Sounds like a "green" day for you (to steal TBJ's terminology)! Are you in for our exercise challenge? As for eating out... it's not so much being tired for me, it's mainly just a time issue when we go out. Since we live about 25 minutes from town, if we go home, we usually don't go back out, so if there's something to do in town, it's so much easier to just eat out. We really are trying to cut down on eating out, both for financial and dietary reasons, but this week has just been a real bear. And now with the upcoming trip to Cincinnati, it's not going to get any easier. I will have to really focus on watching both the quality and the quantity of the food I'm eating. Once we get settled into our house, Steve and I are planning to have a regular night out, with an actual decent meal rather than fast food, but keep it down to about once every other week or so. I'd much rather do that anyway than waste my calories on fast food.

OK, did I get everyone who posted since my last post? I think so! If not, just yell at me. I'm feeling talkative today (Obviously), so it won't be hard for me to find something to say. :lol:

Now, on to... ME!!! :lol3:

I did pretty well last night, at least for me. I had a few too many dried apricots (I love those things) for a snack, but it's fruit so I'm not too guilty about that. Dinner was Subway, as I predicted, but they were out of turkey (can you believe that?), so I had roast beef instead. The nutrition chart says they have the same calories, so it's all good. And some baked potato chips, since they didn't have any SunChips. *sigh* Guess I'll have to go to Quizno's if I want SunChips with my sub. Anyway, at the football game (which we won 45-13, Go 'Eers!), I skipped food in favor of hot chocolate, since I was freezing. I did, however, have 2 small bites of Steve's Philly cheesesteak hoagie. And if you know me, that's an accomplishment, because cheesesteak hoagies are my favorite.

Lunch yesterday was ok, but there was still that Halloween candy issue. I had a mini Butterfinger, a mini KitKat, and a few Hershey kisses with almonds. It would have been worse, but the rest of the office picked out everything but the Krakle bars and the plain kisses, neither of which I'm crazy about, so I suppose that was a good thing.

Oh, and I was hungry when I got home, so I had a little bit of chicken broccoli rice casserole that Mom had fixed for dinner. Like I've said, it had chicken, broccoli, and rice, therefore my mom thinks it's completely healthy. Even if it is smothered in cheese. But it's a step in the right direction, so I'm not really complaining. If I complain, she'll just stop cooking altogether, so I'd rather not. :lol:

Today, I'm already a little over my calorie budget, and I haven't eaten anything entirely bad. Coffee with skim milk, 1/2 a bowl of LF granola cereal with skim milk, and whole wheat toast with peanut butter. Lunch is more of the chicken broccoli rice stuff, only with more chicken and less stuff this time. I have an apple for a snack, oh, and a Diet Dr. Pepper--yummy!

I don't know what dinner will be yet. This morning Mom was complaining because we didn't have anything for dinner and she would have to go to the store. Umm, did she think to check the freezer? I distinctly remember planning meals for 2 weeks and buying enough food for all of those meals. We have a freezer chock full of food! So I told her to pick something from the list that we haven't already had in the past few days, and if she needed help, I can help cook when I get home.

I am absolutely NOT going out to eat tonight or tomorrow! I have a couple of recipes I want to try, so if I end up cooking, great. If Mom cooks, that's fine too. But I am NOT going out.

And Steve has band practice tonight, so I will be left peacefully alone this evening. Time to exercise! Woot! Yourself!Fitness, here I come! I'm excited! (And how often do I say that about exercise? Not very! This is a good thing.)

In other news... we're not leaving for Cincinnati until early afternoon on Saturday, so I will be able to exercise Saturday morning, and we should be back late on Sunday, so perhaps I can exercise then too. Although I may not exercise Sunday, since we've got bowling, and if I exercise today, tomorrow, and Saturday, I'll most likely use Sunday as a rest day. Yep, that's the plan. OK, so let me add up my forecasted minutes... 180 minutes. That's my goal. I didn't exercise yesterday, but I did make a deal with a friend to do 20 crunches before bed, and I DID! Yay Me!

I'll post our exercise challenge minutes in a separate thread, but right now I've gotta run--meeting time! Have a lovely day, chickies!
~Elisha

miss_elisha

11-03-2005, 11:01 AM

Minutes are listed Actual/Goal

Joy: 15/420
Rosie: 18/140
Missgreen: /100
Julie: 25/160
Elisha: /180
TBJ: /140

Group Total: 58/1140

TBJ333

11-03-2005, 02:14 PM

Ah, good morning, it is a nice day here and I have some serenity at the moment, for which I thank God. Mornings are beautiful in this part of Honolulu. It's pleasantly cool, with a nice breeze wafting in off our lanai. The sun is morning-golden and the light is soft. Mmm.

Hubby and I watched "Legend of Zorro." Funny movie! I thought it would be a no-brainer, but the humor was witty. Hubby and I really liked it. Sometimes movies surprise you that way -- "Pirates of the Carribean" and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" were the same way for me.

***
My exercise goal for the week is 140 minutes.
Group goal: 58/1140.
Personal goal: 0140.

Elisha -- Good for you for doing well at the game. Hot chocolate sure is a better choice than buttery popcorn and a sandwich and a pop and a hotdog and some fries and more and more and more! Isn't it depressing how many calories hotdishes can have? Cheese, broccoli, and rice go so well together, but, ah, the fat! :( I posted some relatively healthy hotdish recipes in the Vegetarian recipes forum. They are nice and goopy, so they have that hotdish feel, but they aren't too bad.

Julie -- Heh heh, wtg on your "aha" moment and exercising. :D I am so rooting for you to reach that size 14. Just imagine the new clothing options. You will have so much fun! You have to share that moment with us, 'k? How far do you have to go?

Connie -- What a touching story about how you feel about your children. :) And cheese, yep, hard to stop eating the stuff. Apparently it does have an addictive chemical (casomorphine SP?), which explains why it's hard to give up the stuff. So many people I know, in the vegetarian community and in the better-eating community in general, say that they wish they could stop eating cheese. I'm with you on the goal to cut down on the stuff.

Miss Green -- Hey, it's nice that you have so many pictures of yourself! A lot of us don't... it's sad not to see pictures of us with our loved ones.

Joy -- Ooo, your goal about being pain-free as we age made me realize that I have that goal, too. My parents have diabetes and bad joints. Other overweight seniors I know have joint pain, exhaustion, depression over their bodies. And then there are my husband's grandparents, who grow and eat their own organic vegetables and go for a walk every day. They are in their late eighties, and fine. Wouldn't it be nice to grow old in that way?

Rosie -- You are way realistic about exercise. :cool: You'll reach your goal. :D Good point about emotional eating... I just had a problem with that yesterday. A lot of us seem to know that we have problems with emotional overeating, but what can we do about it besides thinking and talking? I am looking for advice rather than the chipper ol' "Exercise instead! :D :D :D " because that idea is NOT working for me.

MsRD -- Good for you on your successful day. :)

Wnnbthin -- Welcome. Dressing rooms... stores should put curtains in front of dressing rooms, so that we can draw back the curtain AFTER we've changed clothes. That little change would save so many women emotional trauma. :p
***

Well, those are the comments for people who've posted as far back as the "reply" screen records. :p If I missed anyone, sorry!

AAAAAAAARGH!

(What was that?)

OOOWWWWWW!

(Huh?)

EEEEEEEEAAAAARRRRGHGHGHGOWOWOWOW!!!

(It's that blasted tazer! Must be punishment for my completely awful disgusting failure yesterday! Um, the day involved a used car salesman and emotional overeating. I need to deal with the emotional overeating, and "do something else instead" isn't working for me. Advice would be appreciated.)

*TBJ rubs her sore butt and glares at the tazer.*

scale_challenged

11-03-2005, 06:25 PM

Another pretty good day here!

Elisha...totally fine not to include me in the exercise challenge...that one i do have beat as i LOVE to go to the gym.

Don't worry ladies, I may have the exercise thing down, but man is that candy the kids have calling my name. lol I will resist...i will resist

As for the water...not a great day, but I actually do drink plenty of the crystal light stuff in water..does that count? please please say it counts lol

OMG I had a small...tiny really...amount of cheese today...TBJ...thanks for helping with my addiction theory..I KNEW IT! LOL

Well its time to make dinner....so far so good, but night time is my worse time just like so many of you...so we shall see....

Connie

Extrinsic Rapture

11-03-2005, 08:56 PM

My day in summary:

Things I'm proud of:
-Did 23 minutes of exercise: yoga/cardio; thats a personal week's total of 41/140 min.
-Recording ALL food today (no matter how mischievous)
-Actually did something today! (Searched for jobs online; gotta apply to them tomorrow)
- Got in all 66 fl oz of water!

Things needing tweaking:
-Had wayy too much pizza (i usually let myself eat whatever I want on thursdays but I went toooooo far with 5 slices!!!)
-Still not emotionally sound (heck, I don't think I ever am) but I'm just feeling REAL alone

Well aside from that, I look forward to tomorrow and Saturday. I plan to go out. Well friday is errands day for me so I HAVE to go out but Saturday I get to chit chat with an associate. I'll have to lower my cals tomorrow to balance things out; wish me luck with that one :lol:

Rosie

MsRD

11-03-2005, 10:33 PM

Hello!

Is it Thursday already? Yikes! I splurged and bought myself a new pair of exercise shoes....and it really makes 30minutes w/Leslie much less painful! Speaking of exercise, put me down for 240 minutes for the challenge.....and I did 30 minutes yesterday and another 30 today.....60/240

Rosie....good going on the exercise. I think it should count double when you exercise when you don't want to.....hmmm?

Joy.....420 minutes? Wow! and double Wow, because I know you can do it! Thanks for the good weight loss tip......I used to chop up celery and eat it while watching tv and it was always just as satisfying.

MissGreen.....We aren't in a race to see you can rack up the most exercise minutes.....we all have to be aware of our own limitations and concentrate on consistency instead. You are so right in trying to develop a positive self-image....just because we feel we have 'failed' in the weight control aspect of our lives should not mean we are less of a person in any other way.

Connie....I am so impressed with your exercise regimen! when it comes to exercise, I am still a work in progress :lol3: I hear you on the cheese.....so totally addictive! I have been buying mozzarella string cheese.....it is all individually wrapped and only 80 calories and makes a perfect snack!

Julie......You made me smile when you stopped everything and went to exercise! You broke the 'not exercising cycle' ....doesn't it give you a tremendous sense of power!

Elisha....Wow! The 'reasons you might stay fat' really hit home with me! Just by seeing it in print gives me areas that I know I should work on....just to be a better person.

TBJ.....ha! That tazer can sneak up on you! I can really relate to emotional overeating.....it just happens, and no matter how I try to make myself stop, my hand keeps shovelling food in my mouth. My only answer is to purge your house of unhealthy snacks and treats.....at least then you will be overeating on semi-nutritous stuff....hopefully, minimizing the damage.

Calories today came in at 1500.....according to my calculations, that amount of calories (plus exercising every day) CONSISTENTLY, should equate weight loss. Patience has never been my strong suit, so I have to remind myself that healthy weight loss happens slowly and steadily.....rapid weight loss means losing water weight or muscle tissue, rather than fat. I'm still aiming for a 5lb loss by the end of November.....a very do-able goal!

hikein2005

11-04-2005, 12:11 AM

OK...I just figured out my calories from the last two days and I've averaged about 1600 each day. A little over one day, and a little under the other...but what I'm figuring is that if I can just cut out the eating of the sugar snacks, I'd be around 1500 which would be ideal for me! So....I'm asking for some good vibes/prayers/whatever sent to me to stay away from the sugar snacks at work and at home!!!

Thanks everyone. I will comment tomorrow to everyone! I promise! You all are kicking butt and motivating me! Thank you sooooooooooooo much!

:grouphug:

JoyG56

11-04-2005, 12:52 AM

We know it's difficult to stay motivated to exercise regularly. One great way to keep up a workout routine is to pair up with another dedicated person, or with a small group of friends. You'll be surprised how much fun it can be to have a special group for walking, running, or working out at the gym. The camaraderie and support (not to mention the healthy peer pressure) can keep you motivated and feeling positive. Plus, you'll get some necessary together time, too.

Just a "quickie" again tonight chickies. Messed up on the exercise today, co-worker/break issues had me stressed out. Food was okay until the :cookie: x6 attack. Can't wait for them to be gone from the house....

The trick or treats are gone as of last night ... hmmm ...followed your lead there MsRd. :lol: I'm sure you'll get good mileage on those new exercise shoes. Gotta go see Leslie, I've missed her. See you Monday morning?

Elisha thoroughly related to a lot of those 22 reasons I stay FAT. Thanks for that.

Rosie ... feel free to PM me if you need some company, you've got friends here!

MissGreen "so I've detoxed the kitchen from things that are bad. I believe in, controlling the environment, because controlling the self takes a long time. But the environment is much easier to control, and it helps to eventually control the habits. I learned it from Dr Phil. " This makes SO much sense to me.

Scalechallenged - YAY for the "green day" :)

Aloha TBJ, is this tazer lag... I meek lazer tag ... whatever... point it in my direction, I'm a glutton for punishment :rofl3:

Julie ... keep it coming - I know that motivation of yours is contagious ....

Gotta go and get that reading done... procrastinating again .... OH BTW, I think that everyone involved in this challenge is a "cheese addict"... I know I am ... DH calls me a RAT :cheese:

:grouphug:

miss_elisha

11-04-2005, 09:54 AM

Since I posted reasons to stay fat yesterday, I'll give you some of the benefits of working out today to help you lose the fat.

1. Help you lose weight, especially fat
2. Improve your physical appearance
3. Increase your level of muscular strength and endurance
4. Maintain your resting metabolic rate to prevent weight gain
5. Increase your stamina and ability to do continuous work
6. Improve fitness levels, or your body's ability to use oxygen
7. Provide protection against injury
8. Improve your balance and coordination
9. Increase bone mineral density to prevent osteoporosis
10. Lower resting heart rate and blood pressure
11. Lower Body Mass Index (BMI), your fat to height ratio
12. Reduce triglycerides, bad cholesterol (LDL), raises good cholesterol (HDL)
13. Enhance sexual desire and performance
14. Reduce heart disease risk and stroke
15. Reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer
16. Increase insulin sensitivity, prevents Type 2 diabetes
17. Reduce your level of anxiety and help you manage stress
18. Improve function of the immune system
19. Improve your self-esteem and restore confidence
20. Help you sleep better, relax, and improve mood

miss_elisha

11-04-2005, 10:16 AM

Morning chickies!

OK, where am I at? Work, oh yeah. Bleh. But, at least it's Friday, right?

Yesterday turned out ok. Calories came in around 1800 or so, I don't remember exactly. Too high, but I'm getting closer to where I want to be. Still arguing with Mom daily about the definition of "healthy" when it comes to food. Grrr... won't get into that here, definitely a journal issue.

Water yesterday was decent, but not great, at least not for me. I got in somewhere around 70 oz.

I did manage to get in 45 minutes of exercise with my Yourself!Fitness. I made it to Bronze level by sticking with it! Woot!

Breakfast today was a bit high calorie, but not too bad. LF granola cereal with skim milk and the last piece of my chocolate marble banana bread with a little bit of Smart Balance spread, plus coffee with skim milk. Lunch is a Lean Gourmet grilled chicken and an orange, and I brought some string cheese for a snack. Dinner, who knows (another argument with Mom).

Today is Steve's last day at his old job, so he's going out to celebrate with a few of his friends from there, giving me another free evening. Tonight will be a repeat of last night--dinner, probably some reading Dr. Phil, exercise, and early to bed.

I get to sleep in a bit tomorrow, and that is definitely a good thing, as you all know I never get enough sleep. But I will have time to exercise before we leave to Cincinnati, and I'll make us a large, healthy brunch before we go so we don't have to stop for fast food.

Joy: The treats are gone now, so it's time to get back on track. I'm sure Leslie is lying around your house somewhere just waiting for you.

Julie: Those calories are headed in the right direction! You can do it!

MsRD: Shoes sure do make a difference, don't they? The first couple of times I did my Y!F I did it without shoes (they were dirty, and I didn't want to get my carpet dirty)--bad idea. Last night I finally managed to clean my shoes, and the workout was so much easier on my feet! Now my shoulders, that's another story...but it has nothing to do with shoes!

Rosie: You did well today, and you should feel proud! We all get attacked by pizza from time to time, and there's just something about pizza that makes us all over-indulge. But still--looking for jobs, exercising, drinking your water, journaling your food: all good thing. Focus on that instead.

Connie: Sure Crystal Light counts! Pretty much any non-calorie (or very low calorie) beverage counts. Whatever works! Stay away from that candy! You can resist!

TBJ: We all know that used car salesmen are trained in the fine art of getting people to do things they know they shouldn't do. Obviously overeating is on that list. But today is a new day. So get over it, and get on with your diet. Don't make it into a bigger deal than it is.

That's all from me for now! Have a wonderful day, chickies!
~Elisha

miss_elisha

11-04-2005, 11:08 AM

Minutes are listed Actual/Goal

Joy: 15/420
Rosie: 41/140
Missgreen: /100
Julie: 25/160
Elisha: 45/180
TBJ: /140
MsRD: 60/240

Group Total: 186/1380

Betani

11-04-2005, 12:35 PM

Well, I've gotten my exercise in the last two days, but I'm still struggling with breaking the snoozing habit. I gague myself by my shower radio, since no two clocks are the same in my place. When I get in the shower and they do the "Today in History" segment, I know I'm right on time. If they're on the "Blast from the Past" song, I'm running late.

Anyway, I added a small new rule: No snacks after 9pm. I've come close a couple days, but I've followed it so far this month.

I'm only setting a "days of the week" goal on my exercise, as setting a minutes goal has proven counter-productive for me. 3 out of 4 days since the 1st so far. I'm aiming for 5 days a week starting next week.

Elisha-- I here ya on the defination of "healthy" issue. Everyone has a different idea of what that is. There are some people I've given up on and just exercise extreme portion control when I'm with them. As long as I can plan ahead, I'm ok.

Joy, Hikein, and Scale_Challanged-- We should all get our sweets together and have a big sugary bon fire to get rid of the temptation once and for all!

MsRD-- I know what you mean about the shoes. When I finally bought a good pair of cross trainers, my Leslie DVD got MUCH better for me. It was just killing the balls of my feet!

Rosie-- It's easy to go overboard with pizza. Sounds like you had a really good day, otherwise! *Sending you good vibes*

TBJ-- I've had a small amount of success with emotional eating by sucking on a very strong mint or something else like Altoids (working on a tin of curiously strong licorice currently). When I'm not really hungry, that strong flavor lessens the desire to put something else in my mouth.

TBJ333

11-04-2005, 04:00 PM

Morning, everyone...

Yesterday was a good food day. No exercise, though. This morning I have to work on my bar application, and Hubby decided to amuse himself by walking down to the post office while I'm working. Wish I could have gone with him... :(

***
Scale-Challenged -- Heh heh, glad you were able to cut down on the cheese. Have you ever seen Wallace and Gromit Wallace is obsessed with cheese. That's kind of how I am. :p

Rosie -- Sorry you're feeling alone. We're here for you. :)

MsRD -- Ooo, shopping for new shoes. Fun. Glad you like them. Thanks for the tip on purging the house. My home isn't my problem, it's the restaurants. That's why I try to minimize eating out. I seem to be able to do OK for one restaurant meal, but then at the next one I add a soda, and then at the next one I add an appitizer, then a dessert... Eh. It's a challenge to work on.

Julie -- I just said a little prayer for you on your sugar challenge. :) Hey, if you are keeping your calories down, you will definitely lose weight. :D

Joy -- Thanks for the exercise tip. If it hadn't been for my biking buddy, I never would have been able to do the MS 150.

Elisha -- What's up with your mom? I'll check out your journal. Tell Steve Happy Last Day. My friend says it's a great feeling to walk away from a job.

Betani -- Thanks for the tip on emotional eating. I like the fact that you gave me an idea for something to do with my mouth. That idea might work. In fact, back in high school, I used to suck on candy -- just one piece in the afternoon -- and I didn't have any urge to run home after an emotional day and eat bad food. Heh heh, your shower timing is cute. :)
***

Yesterday we picked up our new used car. Hubby says it drove well, and he should know, because he kept getting us lost. :lol: Actually, we had a spat over it. :( But we got through it. During arguments, he tends to focus on the issue and I tend to focus on my wounded pride and negative emotions. He's probably mentally more healthy. :) I admire that about him. :love:

Chicas, wish me luck. I am going to work on the bar application now. I will be optimistic and determine to be done with it soon.

Happy Friday!

JoyG56

11-04-2005, 10:26 PM

Taking time to enjoy a meal can often seem like a major inconvenience. An excellent way to moderate how much you eat is to slow down, relax, and focus on your food. If you're eating while you're driving in your car or while you're working on your computer, you're rushing through the process and potentially overeating. It takes 20 minutes for the body to start really digesting food, so take your time and enjoy your meal!

MsRD

11-04-2005, 10:43 PM

Happy Friday! :dance:

Work was great today....the time just zipped by! Then I stopped at the store to get my Mom some stuff and then picked up some fast food for dinner. Then, out to Mom's and then on to the grocery store and home. I unpacked the groceries and put in the WATP dvd..:carrot:....did the 30 minutes and it relieved all the stresses of the day!

As I said, I had fast food for dinner......and for lunch too..:mcd:...and then there was the pumpkin bar birthday treat. Yikes! Calories came in at 1700.....which I will consider a minor miracle....and hopefully I can stay away from snacking tonight!

Julie....Already you have the food thing under control...:bravo:..1600 calories is great! Breaking the 'sugar cycle' is hard.....expect a headache for a day or so. But, once you stop eating sugary treats, you will stop craving them and then it gets easier.

Joy....Ok, treats are gone..:high:....by whatever means.....and now you can get down to more healthy eating. Why wait until Monday to walk with Leslie.....join me tomorrow AM!

Elisha......Each generation has its own definition of healthy food. I remember my Mom insisting we eat beef liver at least once weekly, because it was good for us......and never gave a thought that it was an organ meat and therefore :bomb: full of cholesterol! Have a wonderful time in Cincinnati!

Connie......Crystal Light is definitely ok for water intake. :coffee2: Any beverage that is sugar free and caffeine free will do.

Betani.....If your exercise goals work for you, then go for it! :) We are all unique individuals.....on the inside and on the outside....so there is no 'one size fits all' diet. What works for one person, doesn't work for another.

TBj.....congrats on the new (to you) car. When DH & I travel, he always drives, and I sit in the passenger seat, with a road map on my lap and 'navigate'! :rofl: Get busy with the bar application, chickie.....just getting that done will give you a sense of accomplishment!

Extrinsic Rapture

11-04-2005, 11:44 PM

My day in summary:

Things I'm proud of:
-Didn't eat 1500 calories like I wanted but I was within my day's usual caloric range
-Recording ALL food today
-Applied to jobs today as planned

Things needing tweaking:
- Didn't have enough water
- Did no exercise (I felt the need to do nothing)
- Let other people's words effect me

Rosie

miss_elisha

11-05-2005, 10:24 AM

Morning chickies!

This morning I just want to post a quick report on yesterday before I get moving (and before I forget)! Calories came in around 1727, not great still but an improvement. Water was decent, but again, not great, at around 70 oz. Exercise was good--45 minutes. I planned on 30, but when I was done with my 30 minute workout I turned on another 15 minutes. Though I didn't do the entire routine she gave me (you want me to do 14 freaking sets of squat lunges?! I don't think so!), I do keep moving, my heart rate stayed up, and I kept sweating, so it's all good.

This morning I woke up around 8 and couldn't go back to sleep, so I got up and had some LF granola cereal with skim milk. I'll exercise here in a little while, as soon as breakfast settles down--30 minutes today--then get ready for our little trip. I'll fix us a healthy lunch before we go so we don't have to stop.

I agreed to start selling Avon yesterday. The lady who sells it in my office wants a break, so I said I'd take over for a while. You all know how I love cosmetics! I figure, she's already got the established client base, and it's almost Christmastime, so people will be buying stuff (great for stocking stuffers, you know), plus I could use the extra cash (that is, if I don't spend it all on Avon!). I'm kind of nervous about it, but hey, I guess it can't hurt anything, right?

Rosie: Applying to jobs is a stressful process! And you still managed to eat within you calorie range and record all your food. Those are all good things. There are things in all of our lives that still need tweaking, but I think the best way to handle them is one at a time. Start out by concentrating on doing just one thing until it becomes habit--eating a certain number of calories, recording your food, drinking your water, whatever. Then when you get that one mastered, move on to the next.

MsRD: You had fast food twice and you still managed fewer calories than me! AND you walked with Leslie! WTG! Exercise really does help relieve the stress, doesn't it? Funny how that works...

OK chickies, I'm going to get moving here. I probably won't check in tomorrow, so have a wonderful weekend!
~Elisha

TBJ333

11-05-2005, 02:43 PM

Morning, everyone.

Food was good yesterday, no exercise, must improve on that soon. Last night I went to a dojo and watched a jujitsu class. I was scared to go, because bad-***-ness is NOT me, but the vibe was good and there was no punkish attitude or behavior. That dojo was the first one that I've looked at, so I still have to look around, but I like it enough that unless I find something else, I'll probably join.

***
Joy -- You're right about taking time to enjoy food. Yesterday, Hubby and I had to go to a restaurant because the food in our fridge had gone bad. I was eating this yummy Chinese noodle dish, and I wanted more, but I waited a few minutes, and sure enough, I was full.

MsRD -- Hey, what a good day, to splurge and still be under calories. That means you must have exercised portion control. Good for you. :)

Rosie -- Ooo, any interesting story on applying for jobs? Applying can be stressful, hope you find something soon.

Ellisha -- You're so pretty and well put together that people will flock to you for Avon goods.
***

Today Hubby and I move in to our new apartment. That means shopping for housewares. Even though money is tight because we just moved so far away, I am looking forward to shopping for sundry items. At least I can choose colors and styles. :D

See you ladies later.

scale_challenged

11-05-2005, 04:36 PM

OK ladies....bad bad day today and last night...didnt eat anything real bad, but bad enough to go over my normal calorie mark. Ok im done...will not be eating anything unhealthy! Pinky swear!

As for exercise, i normally take saturdays off because im so active with the kids. We went roller skating at 9am and stayed til noon so i did pretty well even for my day off. Looks like i can maintain this loss, but just cannot seem to get over the hump. Any ideas for breaking thru a slump ladies? This is the first real biggie ive hit since I began and im starting to get annoyed.

Connie

Betani

11-05-2005, 11:57 PM

Not much time to post today, but I had to mention an article I just read in the tub. (Yes, I read magazines in the bathtub.)

If you have the opportunity to check out the November issue of Prevention (libraries usually have back issues if it's no longer in stores), there is a great article about emotional eating in the Food & Nutrition section. It's by Geneen Roth, who has already written 6 books on the subject. I have a feeling that I might be checking out her books pretty soon...

JoyG56

11-06-2005, 01:19 AM

Cutting out the meat doesn't always cut out calories, especially when it's replaced with high-calorie, high-fat vegetarian foods like cheese and nuts. Plus, many prepackaged garden burgers and fried veggie patties have just as much fat as meat products. The trick is to balance your diet and try not to replace meat sources with other fatty foods.

Thought you guys might enjoy this one. I'm not vegan, but I do try to encorporate some non-meat meals a couple of times a week.

Today was a very loooong day downtown in the classroom. This condensed course is very intense. Week three next week, and already mid-terms ... so I'm afraid I'll be studying organizational behavior models all week, among other things.

I did take my lunch along to avoid eating out, but managed to get in one Tim Horton's muffin, 3 cookies and an iced mocha.... and a Chai Tea Latte....

Got on the next stop and off early for the bus... for about twenty minutes exercise today. Puts my total to a grand 35 ... ahem :o. Okay, I've got three days to make up time.

Well, it's been a long day (up at 5am) so I'm off to bed soon.

Hugs everyone. And remember to spend some time renewing your spirit, appreciating yourself and being thankful this Sunday.

MsRD

11-06-2005, 11:34 AM

Good morning! :)

Sorry I didn't check in yesterday.....just busy doing Saturday stuff. DH & I cut some more wood yesterday, then I fixed lunch, headed to the grocery store, then home and some serious house cleaning! We worked on the woodcutting for 3 hours.....there was a lot of walking, lifting,throwing....but I don't think I should count the whole 3 hours as exercise. Give me 30 minutes worth, to be conservative, and then add another 15 minutes on a very brisk dog walk......brings my total to 135/240. Needless to say, by evening I was sitting with my feet up and was too tired to get up and put in the WATP dvd...:faint:...too bad, but I was also too tired to get up and have a snack, so my daily calories came in just under 1500!

Rosie.....It is all too often that we allow 'other peoples words' to affect us, drag us down, and make us question our actions. Although we should always listen (never know when someone else might present an enlightening opinion), we have to be strong enough in ourselves to know what is still the right thing for us. :halffull:

Elisha......HOpe you are having a great weekend. :) Selling Avon is a great way to get up and meet people.....with very little investment on your part...and Christmas it a perfect time to start!

TBJ......Hope you are settled in your new apartment. Tell us more about this dojo..:?:...I have no idea what that is.....exercise? jujitsu?

Connie.....Plateaus are the worst! This is a true test of your determination. You might try varying your exercise routine..:idea:...if you mainly do weights, go to cardio....anybody else got any ideas?

Betani......Could you please give us a brief synopsis on the emotional eating article? :hun: How do we get beyond emotional part and separate it from eating?

Joy.....I don't think I would make a very good vegan. My parents raised us to think that if we did not have a main meal, heavy on the meat and potatoes, that we wouldn't see another sunrise! Hard to get away from that ingrained attitude :rofl:
What class are you taking?

MissGreen.....Hope you are having a great day! :sunny:

DS just called and said they wouldn't be down for dinner, as they were sickly. That leaves just 5 of us for dinner......and I have 2 pies made! Hopefully, I can talk DD into taking home the leftovers! :crossed:

scale_challenged

11-06-2005, 10:30 PM

Evening ladies...Im on a little later than normal cause my little one has a bit of a cold. He gets a bit cranky. Well not too bad on the food this weekend. Worked out today as normal and then walked the mall for 2 and a half hours. I am exhausted and poor! lol

MsRD--I do alot of both cardio and weights. I was thinking maybe using a different piece of equipment other than walking for cardio...anyone else have to do this to break a tough plateau?

Hope you all had a terrific weekend and
Connie

hikein2005

11-06-2005, 11:10 PM

Howdy Chickies!
Just a quick check in...sorry I didn't make comments last week like I said I would, so maybe I should just start right off with that!

MsRD...Your day certainly sounds like it was a busy one with all that wood cutting, it suprises me that you aren't losing more quickly! Man...that would wear me out! No wonder you didn't get up to put in the DVD! You are doing awesome with your calories!

Connie...Don't give up! Try increasing the intensity if you can with the exercise or add some toning. Weight Watcher's site has some good ones that you can do without any equipment if you need ideas. Also, I don't know what your diet consists of (can't remember if you mentioned a food plan) but try increasing the protein and decreasing some of the "bad carbs"! Just some thoughts! I think I posted on one of our last challenges an article about Plateaus...you might check out the article thread. It might be there! You are doing awesome! Roller Skating for 3 hours! That's some exercise program you have there!

Joy...We used to have a Tim Horton's where I lived. I loved their cinnamon rolls! OMG!! What class are you taking? I'm guessing you are a psychologist just by some of your comments and motivating way you have??!!! What do you do? Just curious!

Betani...Hope you enjoyed your bath...Was it a calgon bath? LOL! I will have to check out that article. I've been getting some Prevention magazines donated (to the nursing home) from someone and Ihave found some really good articles in them. I have a pile of them right here on my desk for my leisure reading! HA! The other magazine I have found is Cooking Light. There are some great recipes in there. I'll post a few...

TBJ...Hope you are enjoying your new home! Where did you end up finding a place? Did you get my PM that I sent you? I hope you are enjoying the food in Hawaii! Some of the best food I've ever eaten was there! I'll bet you are getting in lots of walking, eh? Hope you enjoyed the shopping! Keep us posted! ;)

Rosie...I like your idea of things you accomplished and things that need tweaking. Maybe I will "steal" that idea from you. My posts always seem so lengthy! You are doing so awesome. Just keep up the good work!

Elisha...I hope you enjoyed your weekend away! Sounds like it could have been romantic! Selling Avon...right up your alley, chickie! :)
You are doing awesome with your exercise! I'm proud of you!

OK....as for me...Well, my weekend could have been worse, but it certainly could have been better! Yesterday DD and I had breakfast with Santa. Fun! I didn't eat too terribly, but there wasn't much of a choice...pancakes vs. French Toast sticks (which were gross) and sausage patties. We did manage to get some OJ! Then we had an afternoon at a campground for her girlscouts. It was fun...we went for a short hike...leisure hike, but did get in some fresh air! Didn't get any formal exercise in, though! :( I can't remember all that I ate, but I know I didn't get in enough veggies or fruits!

Today was not great again in the food dept. Too many sugar ladened goodies. Church was selling pumpkin stuff and my Dad came over for dinner so we bought 3 of the desserts at church! Like we needed 3??? So there they sit...on the counter! They are going in the trash in the morning if DH doesn't take them to work! BUT...I DID get in 25 minutes on the bike today...and about 10 minutes of toning! So...60 minutes so far for me on the exercise this week! Geesh...I better get going on that...I still have another hour to do! 30 tomorrow and 30 on Tuesday ought to do it, right? NO EXCUSES in the morning!!!

Who's with me in the morning to exercise???? Have a great night all!

hikein2005

11-07-2005, 08:37 AM

Connie,
Here's that link to the article on Plateaus. Hope it will help!
Hitting a Plateau (http://www.truestarhealth.com/members/archives.asp?id=11ml3p1a28)
Julie

miss_elisha

11-07-2005, 10:23 AM

Morning chickies!

Well, this weekend was good, unless you're counting calories. But let's not talk about that.

Saturday was fine. The art show was fine, if a little weird. She did rubbings of pet gravestones, and she put them all together in a book. She wrote a few pages on how humans relate to pets as a substitute for relating to other humans. It was interesting, but also rather bitter.

Food... *sigh* Too much. And there was alcohol involved, so that upped the calories right there too.

At least I exercised Saturday morning, right?

Yesterday, food was bad again, and the only exercise was bowling. I did pretty good at bowling this week, at least pretty good for me. Our team actually won all three matches. Woot!

This morning the scale is way up--219. That's just plain ridiculous. I did not gain 5 pounds this weekend, it's not possible. I did not consume that many calories. I'm attributing it to not enough water and sitting in a car for two days, plus I'm sure there was a lot of salt in what I ate.

In any case, I'm starting what I call my "No Excuses" diet today. I will exercise 5 days this week (including finishing out our exercise challenge), I will drink 100+ oz of water every day, and I will eat less than 1500 calories per day (the closer to 1300, the better).

I was so scared when I got on the scale this morning. I'm so afraid of going back, and yet it seems that's exactly what I'm doing. I can't keep doing this to myself.

Anyway, I need to go. I've actually got some stuff to do today. I'll try to make it back later to post some comments. Have a good one chicks.
~Elisha

miss_elisha

11-07-2005, 10:25 AM

Exercise Challenge Minutes: Actual/Goal

Elisha 90/180
Joy 35/420
MsRD 135/240
Julie 60/160
Rosie 41/140

Total 361/1140

Betani

11-07-2005, 11:50 AM

I found a link to the emotional eating article on Prevention's site:

http://www.prevention.com/article/0,5778,s1-1-74-206-5877-1,00.html?

Exercise has been good over the weekend. I did my Leslie DVD on Friday morning, and got a 30 minute walk in both Saturday and Sunday. This morning, however, I forgot to set my alarm and didn't get my exercise. If the sunshine holds out, I'm going to try to walk at lunch. I'm aiming for 5 days of exercise this week.

I have no idea how it happened, but I lost 1.5 lbs last week! It must have been water, but I'll take it anyway. ;)

My "no snacking after 9" rule has not been broken so far this month. This week, I'm going to try a new habit: 4 servings of fruit a day. We'll see how it goes with trying to keep up with everything else.

I'll try to come back for comments. I've got a lot of "catch-up" work to do this morning!

Extrinsic Rapture

11-07-2005, 03:32 PM

Hello All :) :

My weekend in summary:

Things I'm proud of:
-was within my caloric range fri. thru sun.
-Recording ALL food today
-Drank more water

Things needing tweaking:
- Haven't done any exercising this wkend
- actual content of food

I'll do individual posts later or tomorrow.

Rosie

Birdiegirl

11-07-2005, 05:48 PM

I've been waiting for the new challenge...and lost track of time, it's a week gone of November already...but darn it, I'm joining in!

I think it's been about a year since I visited with you guys, and when I stuck with you I lost about 10 pounds.

Pretty sure I have all that back now on my hips. :(

But, I want to lose weight now, and feel more determined than I have in a long long time.

Birdiegirl

MsRD

11-07-2005, 08:09 PM

hi!

It's going to be a quick post tonight.....I got up this morning with a sore throat and a head cold. Went to work anyway, but am really dragging now.

Connie.....That mall walking can be expensive! I have a shopping trip planned this weekend to Chicago.....assuming I can kick this cold by then! Hope your little one is feeling better!

Julie.....Sometimes I am amazed that I don't lose more quickly too! It is probalby the poor eating habits, which I am trying to correct, or just the fact that my tired old metabolism is slowing down!

Elisha.....I think you are right with the weight gain.....too much sitting and riding and salty foods......behave yourself all week and then weigh-in on the weekend.

Betani.....Down 1.5lbs! Now that is the best news I've had all day! You get a gold star!

Rosie.....You kept your calories within range over a weekend? I am so proud of you!

Birdiegirl......Welcome home! You have been missed!

I'm going to go curl up on the sofa now with a box of kleenex . Oops, almost forgot.....I got in 45 minutes of exercise yesterday, so I am now 180/240!

time4aChange

11-07-2005, 09:13 PM

I have been trying to find this thread for the longest!!!!!!! LOL.. good grief! I have to catch up on the posts, but I'll get back to it.

I got back on the wagon last week, and I am down 2 lbs, so I'm happy about that. That means I lost all the weight I gained back =) woohoo!!
Now to make progress and move forward is the next goal. I am watching what I eat (I did good today even though today is my "off" day), and doing some sort of activity every day, so its helping!
I hope to reach my goal and surpass it, that'll be awesome!

time4aChange

11-07-2005, 09:15 PM

hey MsRD, I hope that you feel better!!!!!!!

Take care of yourself so that you can come back full force!

scale_challenged

11-07-2005, 09:42 PM

Had a great day today...ate well, did 45 mins cardio and lifted weights. Been trying out some new low fat, low carb but yummy sweet-type receipes. Kids loved the new one. Its like a fruit trifle...totally yum!

Julie--thanks for the post! I am checking it as I type.

As for everyone else, glad to hear good things for this weekend for the most part. The challenge seems to be going great. I'll try and check back tomorrow.

Connie

hikein2005

11-07-2005, 10:35 PM

Oh what an emotional day it was today! :cry:

Got to work to find out that one of our more active residents had died yesterdy! That was sad. :cry: But I believe he is in a better place now with no suffering! So then I went to Morning report and...well...blech! :p I just can not stand to be treated like I'm "less than"! So, I went to my boss about how I was feeling and just lost it! :cry: I really hate to get emotional in front of the boss, you know? But I also hate to be treated like dirt from my supposed equals! It was a good thing I packed a lunch and snacks today because I went to my office (this was my medical records day) and shut the door and stayed there all day!

On a positive note, I did not sway from my plan of attack today and got a lot accomplished! I ate only what I brought (Yea me!) :) Also, we just recently acquired 2 Zebra finches at work and we found out today that they are laying eggs...3 so far! :D So I did s ome reading up on that, posted some info to the staff (I have sort of been unofficially appointed as their caretakers!) and residents. The day was quite productive even though it started out on a bad note!

OH...I worked out BEFORE I went to work...20 minutes on the bike! It was more like 22 but...hey...20 is good enough for me! I plan to do another 25 or so tomorrow morning!

So tonight I get home and I made supper, etc. DH and I had some words at supper, and he went to bed mad! I hate that! Hmph! I told him not to, but he doesn't ever listen to me! :rolleyes: So there sits some goodies from yesterday's "pumpkin splurge" at church! Of course, I ate one of the pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting! It could have been much worse!!! OK, Betani...I'm reading that article right now!!!!! :lol:

Welcome back to Birdiegirl! You are not too late to join! So glad you are withus! We missed you! There's a good group of chickies here with us! So much fun!

Time4achange...Way to go on the 2lbs down! If only I could...Keep up the good work and mark this page so you don't lose us again!!! LOL!

MsRD...So sorry you are under the weather! :rain: Hopefully you will be feeling your ole chipper self again! :sunny: Listen to your body...REST!!

Rosie...Keep upt he good work with the caloric count! I did it for 3 days and was doing great, but then, I forget, etc...no excuses, eh?

Elisha...it's just a blip in the scale...fear not! You will be back down in no time...and past where you were! Hang on!!! Glad you had a good weekend! The artwork does sound a bit...eerie to me, too!

Joy...hope you are out there, chickie!!! Come post! We miss you!

I wonder where Lisa is????????????????????

Hugs to all!

Extrinsic Rapture

11-08-2005, 02:29 AM

I'm so tired. I'm up job searching. I planned on writing personals and about my day but i'm barely typing as is. so guess i'll type tomorrow...well its 1:30 am here so i'll type later.

Rosie

TBJ333

11-08-2005, 02:48 AM

Hi everyone,

Just a quick post. Food was really good today, exercise was nonexistent, Hubby and I bought stuff and put it in our apartment, I made my first ever Ebay purchase, I missed watching a Judo class tonight because I couldn't find the room in time, we won't have cable in our apartment until November 21, but now we have gas so at least we have hot water, but I think I'll stay here in our vacation rental until everything is done in our apartment, even though Hubby is going back to Minnesota for a month pretty soon.

I didn't buy a scale yet -- we stopped shopping when our shopping cart was full. :p

MsRD -- Hope you feel better! Jujitsu is a martial art. I've always wanted to try martial arts; I've never been in a fight in my life, so I'm not the type to go out looking for some thug activity. I'm looking around a lot before I decide which art to study and what group to join.

Julie -- Hmm, don't remember getting a PM recently... will check. Food here is good. Lots of Asian. I tend to eat Thai and Chinese, am looking forward to trying Japanese and Korean. The last time Hubby and I went out to eat, he said he didn't feel like Asian food. I think he still thinks of Asian food as "ethnic" food, but now that we live on, like, you know, a PACIFIC ISLAND, we are going to eat more of this kind of food. I hope he adjusts. We ended up in an apartment out in Kapolie, 16 miles west of Honolulu. I wanted to live somewhere more urban, but we called about 30 places before we found someone who would rent to us with all our pets. I'll post more about it some other time. :)

Betani -- Thanks for that link. :)

Birdiegirl -- Hi there!

Time4achange -- Glad you lost those 2 lbs. :)