Keep It Up Challenge

[miss_elisha]

So now it’s February, and we’re all coming down off of our “It’s a new year, so let’s start fresh!” motivation high and settling back into the routine of daily life. Now is the time when we start slacking, right?

WRONG!

This year, we are NOT going to start slacking now that our New Years motivation is all dried up, NO! We are going to kick it into high gear and bust some major tushie!

Our focus this month is going to be consistence. We cannot let ourselves get lazy and slide back into old, unhealthy habits.

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again—the truth is that we all KNOW what we need to do, how to do it, and why we need to do it. So why haven’t we, as the intelligent, capable women we are, conquered our weight problems already? Simple: we are not following through, and we are not being consistent.

So the challenge this month is to set a goal of consistency. You don’t have to be perfect and do every single thing every single day. (I think we all know too much about the nature of life to believe that every day will go perfectly.) The idea is to do your best and stay on plan MOST of the time. Your goal can be to work out 5 days per week, or limit your eating out to only once a week, or staying within your calorie range for 6 days per week, or whatever. You can even add goals that don’t really relate to dieting, but are instead general lifestyle consistency goals, like getting to sleep earlier on weeknights. Whatever.

With consistency being the main focus, the big goal is to stick to your target for the entire 4 weeks of February. 28 days. Just think, 28 days is long enough for a habit to form, so when we all come through this challenge with flying colors we’ll have new healthy habits to keep our weight loss rolling!

And here’s the good part: rewards. Set up some rewards for yourself, perhaps a small weekly reward for meeting your weekly goals and then a big monthly reward for staying consistent all month. These rewards need to be something you ONLY get once you’ve met your goals. Write them down (or find some pictures) and post them where you can see them every day to remind you of what you’re working towards.

One caveat: don’t overextend yourselves. Don’t try to fix everything you want to fix about your life within the next 28 days. Set maybe 1 or 2 goals to work towards, and really strive for consistency in those areas. If you try to do too much at once, you may end up accomplishing nothing at all, and that’s not what we want!

So pick a reasonable goal, write down your rewards, and get to it!

[miss_elisha]

Well, it’s February. I didn’t make the 4-pound loss in January, but I did hold at 213.8, for a grand total of 3.6 pounds lost, and I’ll take it! This morning’s measurements showed me down 0.5 inches in my hips and another 0.5 in my calves, and not a whit elsewhere. But, an inch is an inch, and the more inches I lose, the better!

My other good news of the day: the bank wants to close either tomorrow or Friday. YAY! So this weekend I’ll be cleaning and painting, moving a little throughout the week, and major moving next weekend!

Bad news: I was so excited last night that I barely got any sleep! :lol:

Anyway, I should have expected my weight not to be down any more this morning because I had Burger King for dinner. Calories still came in at 1447, as I figured out my meal and calories before I went, so all is well. Water was only 72 oz, but that’s better than none, which is what my exercise was. But that was planned, so I guess I can’t really complain about it.

And I did get some things done last night, but still not as much as I wanted. I had to run some errands after work, and that took longer than I would have liked, but oh well. I managed to clean the black hole that is my desk, and I changed my sheets, and I even packed up some random stuff, mostly just to get it out of my way. Tonight I will “finish” my tasks by putting away my laundry and vacuuming, and probably doing a bit more packing, or at least preparation for packing.

Also tonight I’m going to do my WATP dvd, and perhaps a few sets on the weight machine. Bah, that thing is going to be a hassle to move! Oh well. You gotta do what you gotta do, right?

OH, I didn’t explain this reward option in my opening post, because I just thought of it. :) But here it is anyway: weekly rewards should only be for meeting ALL of your goals (if you have more than one), but you can set different end-of-the-month rewards for each of your goals. You don’t have to, but it’s an option.

My goals for this challenge.
1. Drink 100 oz of water EVERY day, including weekends.
2. Exercise 5 days per week, for a total of 20 days this month.
3. Eat within calorie budget of 1500 calories 6 days per week.

My rewards:
1. Weekly facial, pedicure, manicure, and bubble bath for meeting all three goals.
2. At the end of the month, an aerobic step for achieving my workout goal.
3. At the end of the month, 1 day without worrying about calories, and even eating dinner or lunch out, for meeting my caloric goal. I know you’re not supposed to reward with food, but one day isn’t going to kill me, and I think that if I know it’s coming, it will be easier to resist temptation until then. Besides, 4 weeks from now I’ll be PMSing again, and craving chocolate and fried cheese like a madwoman. ;)

I’d like to set an end-of-month reward related to my water-drinking goal, but I can’t think of one. Any ideas?

OK, chickies, that’s it from me today. I’m going to go browse the internet for home improvement ideas. :D Have a good one.
~Elisha

[TBJ333]

Yay, a consistency challenge. :D

1. Green days four days per week.
2. One day of non-jujitsu exerside per week.

Reward: A new shirt.

***

MsRD -- Woah! Did you find your car in a cave in France? 'Cuz your car seems to have come from the paleolithic era. :p And :hug: good job on no binge after seeing Mom. :)

Elisha -- OMG, woo-HOO on the house! :cheer: And thanks for setting up the new challenge. Hmm, reward for your water goal... maybe something wedding related that's a little more expensive than what you had planned? Like a nice cake topper or some extra flowers.

***

Yesterday was green. At the end of the day, I was tempted to get a Starbucks insanely-sugary coffee drink. It would have put me in yellow range, not red, so I almost convinced myself that it was OK. Then I remembered that I didn't want to post here that I did something stupid! So I refrained. :yes:

Today was another big-ish lunch. I will be fine for the rest of the day, since everything is planned. But I have to stop the big-lunch habit, because one day I might not be able to control what is for dinner. Tomorrow I will plan a small lunch.

[**Jennifer**]

Ok, so day one on the new challenge, and I sure did need the kick start. Our new girl started today, and if there is anything I need now, it's something to focus on that I can control, because it sure isn't going to be the Roid at work, or the new girl, who will probably be named within the next week or so. We'll just have to see what she does that I complain about. ;) Yes, it isn't fair to pre-judge her, and sure, that makes me a beeeyotch, and a horrible person, but you know what? I'm human, and we all do it. I just won't pretend that I'm that evolved...lol. My issue (for now!) is that this is just another person hired because of a personal relationship- either a direct relative, or 1 step removed, coming in at a high level of pay, and no experience to back it up. And having her nose shoved in the crack of our LC's butt doesn't hurt as far as who gets the crap to deal with, and who gets to sit back and be lauded just for being her best friend's neice. Grr.

My goals for this month, which I am going to consistantly follow through on, and consistantly be looking for prodding to complete:

1. 96oz of water, minimum, before I can leave work. Period. Chugging at 4:59 is ok, but not recommended, especially once we're in the new house full time, and it'll be an hour drive to a bathroom. Start early, refill early, drink with lunch, and then in the afternoon, bonus time! :)

2. Exercise- this one is rough, and yes, here comes the excuse. VCR is at the new house. Exercise bike is at the old house, but covered with laundry that can't be put away due to packing/moving process. Goal is to consistantly wear my pedometer, because until we're in the new house full time, I know the only sure thing is going to be walking. So, walk at lunch, or get to work 10 minutes early and take a walk. It'll be good for my head, and stress.

3. Food- also difficult, due to a) moving, and b) post hurricane ice chest in hallway instead of freezer, and small 4 cubic foot fridge on kitchen floor instead of big fridge which died a tragic death during 2 plus weeks of no electric, and major icky issues. Zone bars are already at the office for breakfast. Stop at Publix, and bring in cottage doubles, and leave in the office fridge. With 20 people in the whole office, it isn't like that's taking up precious space that someone else is using. Plan ahead, again.

4. Weekends- this is where I can have the most control, and maintain my consistancy. Have the new appliances, plenty of newly unpacked, nearly brand spanking new cookware, silverware, etc. Take the time to make good, healthy meals while there on the weekends. Use this time to recharge, and re-energize. Work hard to make up for lack of structured exercise during the week. Sweat. Soak in the tub to relax sore muscles, and get sleepy. Get up early and enjoy the peace and quiet in the country. Drink a bottle of water on the front porch, and watch the neighborhood come to life, as people get up and start mowing lawns, taking out trash, getting newspapers.

Reward: weight loss of more than 1.6 pounds for the month, first off. Second, less feeling like a slug, less joint pain, less butt pain. Third, and actual reward- spend 25.00 in the Asian market we found, buying new spices, and sauces, and soba noodles, to try my hand at several excellent, low fat, good carb, lean protein recipes I have come across and been dying to try.

Chickies, I'll comment more in the morning, once I've spent my "mandatory hour" with the new girl showing her what my job entails, and why I don't have 6 extra hours a day to screw around like the Roid does.

(Super bonus consistancy goal- to limit the complaining, and to somehow find, and specifically state, the silver lining to whatever the black cloud of the day is.) Happy February, chickies.

[hikein2005]

of course!

OK...last month's weight loss first! I am down to 178, which means I lost 2 lbs the whole month! Not what I had hoped, but I won't beat myself up about it, either! I'm just happy not to see 180 anymore!

My goals for this month are pretty much the same as they have been (wish I could be more original!)
1. Aerobics 3-4 days a week
2. Toning 2-3 days a week
3. Planning meals weekly and preparing a grocery list weekly for things that are healthy!
4. Lose 5 # by the end of February...Yes I can...Yes I can...Yes I can..(This will take me to 173 which is a weight I have not been since summer!)


Now...to let you all know my plan...I went shopping tonight (how is that a plan, you ask?) Well...I bought a pair of Winter White dress pants which were just waaay too cute and waaaay too cheap to turn down...they were 75% off Clearance prices...so I got them for like $5.00!!! OK...here's the plan...they are just too tight to wear right now, but 10# down, they will fit just fine (I still may have to hem them, but that's not a biggie)!!! And did I mention how CUTE they are??? What I should do is take a picture of my FAT butt in them now, and then when I lose the 10#, take another picture! I think I will...and that should motivate me, don't you think?

Elisha...thanks for setting up the new challenge! And YIPEE on the house finally closing! That has sure dragged on long enough, wouldn't you say??? ;) And GREAT JOB on the 3.6 lbs! That is awesome, chickie!

Jennifer...I like your "realistic" goals! Very good! With all that is/has gone on in your life, you are smart to not go overboard with all that you WANT to do! BUT...I will hold you accountable to checking in here several times weekly...dont' think I won't!!!! BTW, I like your 4th goal the BEST! YES!

TBJ...Aloha chickie! Your logic just kills me! :lol3: I wish I had that kind of thinking...seriously! I would be much closer to my goal weight if I could think like you! Have you weighed yet? I didn't hear the final "last challenge" count... Glad you are enjoying the islands! Any beach time lately? Please go check out Diamond Head Beach for me...it's where all the wind surfers hang out...right near Diamond Head (DUH!) It was my favorite beach...especially this time of year! So....beautiful! Ahhhhh! I can hear the waves and feel the salt in my face! OK...I need to go to bed and dream about it! :D

Hugs to all! Have a great Friday!

[JoyG56]

Hi everyone :wave:

Just a quick note to let you know ... I'm up for the February consistency challenge.

I'm afraid my scale weighed me in at the same 249 I was at the start of January this morning. Hopefully, that was just holding water or being constipated or something... I haven't been that out of it.... :?:

It's been a busy week so far... class both Tuesday and Wednesday evenings. It will be nice .. .to be home ... and back to normal tomorrow.

My goals for February are:

Continue my consistency goal of no eating after 8pm I gotta beat this habit... I'm getting bored (and boring). I'll ease up on the rigidity (?) and limit it to Sunday through Friday and leave some room for the weekends.

Exercise 30 minutes per day, everyday or 210 minutes for the week. Bonus points for over 1000 minutes for the month.

Monitor and record calories on fitday and limit intake to 1800 per day.

Up the water intake to 72 oz per day.

... :yawn: It's almost 11pm so I'm off to bed.

Goodnight :grouphug:
Joy

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

Well, we made it through the first day of the month. How did everyone do yesterday?

Me? Not so great. I got a salad at Bob Evans at lunch, but it turned out to have about a bazillion calories, and then I just had to eat the rolls that came with it, and then I had one of those “Oh, I’ve already ruined my day, I might as well keep going” moments at dinner. And not nearly enough water. And still no exercise. And I’m still so tired I think I could curl up under my desk and go to sleep right now. And to top it all off, ToM showed up yesterday, and that’s not helping at all.

It doesn’t look like I’m going to do much better over the weekend, either, with all the stuff we’re planning to do to the house. It’ll most likely be fast food and little sleep. Great. I’m going to try to sleep in a little Saturday morning though, and go to bed earlier tonight. We’ll see.

I have a feeling this month is going to be really hard for me, dietarily speaking, or at least the first couple of weeks. I know I’m going to be busy, and I’m already tired, and I’m not going to feel like working out. I just hope I can maintain this month. Ha… as of this morning, “maintaining” will actually require losing, as the scale was up to 214.4 yet again. But, I know that’s because of ToM, not enough water, and the aforementioned bazillion calorie salad. Today’s food will be better, if a little high calorie (I’ve planned additional snacks, as I’ve just been famished these past few days—I blame that completely on ToM), and I didn’t even bring a soda for lunch, so I’ll get in more water. Still not too sure about the exercise, but we’ll see. I might just go home and go straight to bed.

So we’re closing tomorrow morning sometime. Don’t have an exact time yet, but Steve is supposed to call me when he finds out. I’m going to be busy at work over the next few days, as the other person who does my job is having minor surgery tomorrow and will be out until Wednesday or Thursday. I hope nothing incredibly important comes through, as I have a bunch of my own stuff that suddenly needs to be done *now* as opposed to *whenever.* So anyway, tomorrow after we close Steve is going to work on getting the utilities transferred and the heat turned on and so forth, then I’ll go over tomorrow evening and start cleaning. Saturday my whole family is going to come help clean, paint, and fix up. Sunday… I don’t know the exact plan for Sunday, because we already had other things to do, so let’s just say it will be busy. Then next Friday I am taking off work to move in the big stuff. Saturday we’re going to Pittsburgh to pick out tuxes and bridesmaids’ dresses. Then next Sunday I guess we’ll finish moving.

Ugh… just thinking about this upcoming week makes me want to sleep. *sigh*

Anyway, I’d better get to work. Hopefully I can get a bunch of my stuff done today. Bah. Stupid work.

Have a good day, chicks.
~Elisha

[Extrinsic Rapture]

Hello My Motivating Queens:
Sorry I was MIA for January but that challenge kinda confused me. Well for January my weight's been up and down and at the end of the month well I didn't gain at all so that's okay. And the jeans I bought at the end of December are getting wayy loose so I'm happy about that.

My February goals:
*4 days exercise, 1 day rest, 1 day going out
*drinking water...I'll start @ 22 ounces (I have a cup that big) and work up from t here
*Stay within 1900-2000 calories with BETTER choices (i'm more concerned with my choices than the calorie range @ this point)

February reward:
Buying/Finding a dress that goes with the new shoes I bought about 2 wks ago

~~Rosie~~

[lisa girl]

Want to say hello, and say I'm definitely IN for this challenge :). I weighed 2 days ago, and I was (surprised to be...) down 2 more pounds. That puts me at 4 pounds down the last challenge. I have been exercising really well the last week..liking my treadmill(another pleasant surprise!!!)

My goals for this challenge : Eat right and exercise. Period.

I have sick, sick kiddos here. Thought the youngest may have pneumonia, but a chest x-ray at the hospital ruled that out. He's just plain SICK. The actual diagnosis is viral bronchitis. As I was taking him to the Dr. this morning (once again!), the school called for me to come pick up my 6 yr. old (who was in the clinic with a fever/aches). I've not had too much sleep. Yet, this morning I made myself do 30 min. on the treadmill. I want to go to yoga tonight...we'll see...

It's good to see all the chickies here on the challenge! Yay! Maybe those of us that post over on the journals could do a little advertisement blurb over there about this new challenge?? Just a thought.

I hope to comment later..maybe tomorrow when I can think better! Hope you all have a great day!!!

[Betani]

Consistency is exactly what I need right now. I'm in the midst of beating my head against several brick walls at work, and I really need to save some of my focus for bettering myself.

I'll set two goals for this month:

1. At least 4 days each week with a star on the calander (4 bottles of water, 15 minutes of exercise, and eating at scheduled times, not exceeding 1800 calories)

2. Brush teeth after each major meal, or at the very least before bed

I know it sounds gross, but I've been so stressed out that there are days when I'll completely forget to brush lately!

As for a reward... Hmm... Maybe I'll pick something off my Amazon wish list. Or maybe two smaller things, one for each goal.

Anyway, yesterday could be considered a "negative star" day. It was a rock bottom stress day and I ended up binging again, which I thought I had under control. Guess not.

Today is looking better so far. All meals on schedule so far, I've brushed both after breakfast and lunch, and I got my library laps in. We'll see what this evening brings...

Oops, time to get back to work.

[TBJ333]

Hellooo everyone.

Yesterday was green. Not much longer until I weigh myself... 20 more hours, 20 more hours... No excuses for messing up today. Lunch was light (I kept that goal), dinner is planned, and I have room for snacks. I even biked this morning. The Conan the Barbarian soundtrack is good bikin' music... it sounds like you're setting out on a great adventure.

***
Jennifer -- Yeah, so often we feel guilty for having normal human emotions. Be a B for a while and enjoy it. :evil:

Julie -- It's so good to hear that you're below 180 again. :) Yes, do take a pic of you in the pants! You can try them on at the end of every week for motivation. :) I'll weigh tomorrow morning... hopefully with success. :dizzy: Hmm, no beach time last week... right now is crunch time for the bar.

Joy -- Glad to see you here. :hug:

Elisha -- Woah, are you busy. You are such a determined lady... you can keep up the good work.

Rosie -- Welcome back. :)

Lisa -- Sending cool-on-the-forehead thoughts to your kiddies. Good job on the loss over the past month.

Betani -- You're off to a good start; now keep it up. :D
***

Tomorrow I can post my January challenge weight loss total, and then make a goal for this month.

255 days until Elisha's wedding. I only need to lose half a pound to stay on pace. ;)

[MsRD]

Hi!

Checking in to the new challenge..... would have signed in yesterday, but I got on the scale and spent the rest of the day giving myself a stern lecture. I have been giving weight loss high priority for two years now.....have lost 73 pounds, and gained 74 pounds.....guess I can't call it a 'journey' if I'm not going anywhere! :rofl:

So......thank you, Elisha, a consistency challenge is exactly what I need! I am going to start out with goals of:
1. exercise 6 days a week - 30 minutes a day
2. count calories - keeping it under 1500
Rewards? Hmmm.....will have to give that some thought.

Elisha.....congratulations on the NEARLY 4 pounds lost! Incredible job! I am so glad to hear you are finalizing buying your house! You are going to have a busy couple of weeks!

TBJ.....Good job on refraining from a Starbucks indulgence. Remember, we are always looking over your shoulder....

Jennifer.....I know it must be difficult to exercise and eat right while in the moving process. (All the more reason to get it done!) I will be looking forward to some new recipes made with the Asian market ingredients.

Julie.....And you lost 2 pounds last month too! This group of chickies is awesome! You are going to be my inspiration this month!

Joy.....Sometimes the scale does not more for no good reason whatsoever! You have some great goals there.....I know you can do it!

Rosie....Welcome back! You have been missed! And loose jeans are something to cheer about any day!

Lisa.....Good job on the January weight loss! Sorry the kidlets are not feeling well......get the exercise in and stay strong for them too!

Betani.....You are going to be seeing stars this month! You have to stay healthy to manage all the work stress!

Getting late, so I better get up from the puter and get some walking in with Leslie!

[JoyG56]

Hey everybody :wave:

The day in review.... I only walked for 15 minutes this morning. I managed to monitor my calories and keep them at 1763 today. My water is at 64 oz so far... and I plan to have herbal tea as soon as it steeps... It's 7:33 pm and I don't plan on having anything more to eat today....

So... check today off as done.

Talk to you chickies tomorrow ... I'm pooped.

:grouphug;

[hikein2005]

I don't know why...but this week it's been extra hard to get up in the mornings. The lack of sunshine, even though we have had above temps all month (34 days in a row, actually) I think is starting to get to me!!! That combined with the stress from work (which is actually MUCH better than December!) has just been getting me a down a bit! I don't usually complain, but I do feel a bit "depressed" these days! I need a good dose of Miami Sun!!!! ;)

OK...yesterday, was not exactly the greatest food day ever, but I did alright! I got in more than I usually do with water, so that is good (was extra thirsty for some reason...maybe TOM...) The only exercise I got was walking back and forth to our ALC from the NH about 10 times...it's about 500ft one way, and I do it briskly when I do it, so...it was exercise!

Today, my goal is to NOT EAT any sweets! I know this is my biggest downfall and always will be if I don't get it under control. Yesterday I had an iced oatomeal cookie and a small (less than 1/2 cup) choc. chip icecream...and one of the mini Hershey's (dark choc.)

I just drank my Latte, which should hold me over til tomorrow, but if I am feeling like something sweet, I will take some grapes to snack on! yes...that's what I'll do...I'll take grapes...and an apple...and some string cheese or yogurt...yes...that's what I'll do...

OK...now if you all could send some positive vibes, I'll be ok! Thanks for checking in here. It helps me to stay motivated to know that we all struggle together and that we can do this together!

[lisa girl]

Can it be?? A moment of quiet in this house? Ahhhhhhhh....sigh....a few precious minutes on the computer. DS #2 and #3 are home today. DS #3 is still in bed, and DS #2 is playing with blocks in the family room. Both are still a bit puny, but better I think. I have a full day. I have let the laundry go this week, and can you picture laundry literally up to the ceiling?? Add in DH's extra workout clothes (one set for each day), and you have a day of laundry just for dear old ME!! LOL!

Yesterday, I walked 30 min. on the treadmill, and then after such a hectic day, I did something I rarely ever do..I called my MIL. I told her that I was about to cry, that I needed a few minutes to myself, and could she come over and keep the kids while DH and I went to the health club to walk on the treadmills. She was so kind, and said she would be over here in a jiffy. So..we went! Well, I was picturing us striding side by side, and catching up on life, but no....that sneaky DH had a plan!! He insisted that I get on the ellipticals, even though I clearly voiced my reluctance to do so! He climbs on, and starts stepping away (along with everyone else on them). I, on the other hand, looked like a 90 yr. old Granny! I was in slow motion. Yuck! I only made it 15 min, and I was sweating like crazy. Then, I told him I wanted to get on the treadmills as planned, but OH NO..he said I needed to learn about the machines, etc. And he helped me do a workout for my arms! Actually, he was really sweet to me, and I DID enjoy getting out. I am a bit sore this morning, but we found this Baththerapy stuff to soak in after workouts that works better than anything I have EVER tried. It's a miracle. :)

Want to hear something funny :)? When MIL was leaving last night, she told the kids that if they wanted it to snow, then they needed to each turn their p.j.'s inside out and flush 2 ice cubes down the toilet. They are so desperate for snow..of course they did it! LOL!

Sorry to ramble on..I am so stircrazy! Somebody talk to me-please! :)!

Hope you all have a blessed day! I'll comment later....kiddos are all up now, and restless.

[**Jennifer**]

What a week! I tell you, I don't know where 2006 has gone so far...can you believe it's the 3rd day of February already???? Today should be a lighter day at work- my Roid is leaving at 2:45 for the day, and our LC will be in from 12 or 1-ish until about 3pm. Will make for a nice, quiet afternoon. Just me, and the new girl. And I'm being nice, and making small talk, and making sure that I don't say anything that could even possibly be miscontrued and twisted & put before our LC. :p

Water was excellent yesterday, and I must have really needed it, because I woke up last night thirsty, and needing to get a drink. The body is getting used to the added fluid, and my ankles are less puffy. Excellent! Breakfast and lunch were good, dinner was kinda thrown together and not the best choices, but better than they could be. Today, Breakfast is done. lunch is planned, I'm ready to refill my water, and slosh my way back to the desk.

Either tonight, or early tomorrow will be the jaunt to the new house. Hubby has so much work, he may have to stay behind this weekend. I'm going to have to be there to deal with the cable guy, and make sure that gets hooked up, and we can be ready to go. I may take my work laptop home, and bring it to the new house & see if I can dial up and check in. If I can't, I can definitely type up recipes & save them on the hard drive, and then post them when I am back here / online.

Elisha- congrats, and good luck on your closing! Now the fun part starts- I'll send you some ben-gay for the muscle aches. ;)

Julie- great incentive there with the pants. And good planning with your fruit & cheese & yogurt!

Joy- Keep up the good work! Lately it's hard to stay up past 8pm, so I'm at least not eating past then! :)

Rosie- loose jeans are always good! :) Welcome back- and hello!

Lisa- way to go with the loss and all that exercise. Sorry about the sick kiddos. I LOL'd here at the snow rituals & the ice cubes- too funny!

Betani- chin up, chickie. Looks like we're both struggling with job-related stress issues. Let's lean on each other- we'll get through this, and try to take those deep breaths and make time to take care of us!

TBJ- good luck on the weigh in- fingers crossed! How long until the bar exam?

MsRD- I totally understand. been there, just did that myself this last year. It was a journey, it was just a round trip. :^: This will be our year. Any requests for specific asian dishes?

[miss_elisha]

Seriously. Prepare for a rant. Or two.

Well, if you noticed the fact that I am posting right now then you certainly realize that I am NOT currently closing on a house.

Why not, you may ask? Apparently there’s a lien on the house that nobody did anything about or even told us about until yesterday.

Umm… isn’t that exactly why they took an entire freaking month just deciding whether or not to accept our offer in the first place, because they were trying to figure this stuff out? Shouldn’t this all be determined *before* they try to sell a house?

I am so freaking mad I just want to scream and throw things and stomp my feet. I wish there was someone I could fire, just to make them lose their job for being so damn incompetent. It does NOT take over 4 months to sell a house! Period. I could learn everything I needed to know about the process AND complete the process AND probably even get certified to do so in less than 4 months, and I’m a terrible procrastinator. And the real pisser is that apparently the most serious problem there was for us to fix took us all of 30 minutes, and we had it done within a week of them telling us we had to fix it, and that’s working around our opposite schedules and the freaking weather. They get paid specifically to do this 8 hours a day, every day, and they can’t manage it in less than 4 months?

I want to growl at someone. Grrr…

And to top it all off, Steve yelled at me because I got mad. He said there’s no reason to be mad, because there’s no one to be mad at. Grrr to him too!

So yeah, yesterday was not the best day for me. Can anyone say “comfort food”? I know I can.

And today… I don’t know. I refuse to eat out for lunch today, whether I feel like eating my frozen dinner or not. I did bring a couple of caramel Hershey kisses to keep me from buying a chocolate bar though. Better 50 calories than 280, right?

The other lady who does share my job is gone for a couple of days. I don’t know of anything going on at the moment, but I’m sure something will come through. I’ve got my own stuff to work on, but I got most of it done yesterday, so it’s not too bad.

But just as another rant, because I’m just generally in a pissy mood… One of the things I take care of is business cards. I create them for the new employees, I update them for the old employees, I do all of the ordering, the delivering, etc. And I’m supposed to take care of the invoices, meaning that I enter the expenses into the system and then turn it over to accounting. Well, all of that would be just fine and dandy, except that for some reason I don’t get all of the invoices, regardless of the fact that they have MY name on the envelope and it’s a federal offense to open someone else’s mail, and regardless of the fact that I’m supposed to own the entire process, and regardless of how many times I tell everyone in the freaking office to make sure I get at least a copy of all the business card invoices. Seriously, I do about 4-5 orders a month, generally, and have done 4-5 orders per month since August, and I have received 5 invoices, all of which I have entered and turned in correctly. Now, they are being paid, according to our printers, so that at least is good. But when there’s an inconsistency in the pricing it’s somehow my fault for not catching it. 1. I wasn’t told how much they are supposed to cost, as that was all settled before I even started working here, 2. Isn’t accounting supposed to notice things like that, and 3. How in the hell am I supposed to catch inconsistencies when I only receive about 15% of the invoices? So the CFO herself calls and yells at me because we’re still being billed incorrectly and the next thing I know I get one additional invoice for business cards that’s already been sent through accounting and another invoice that has absolutely nothing to do with me.

*sigh*

But alas, I am the low man on the totem pole here at my office, and no one listens to a word I say, because obviously I don’t know what I’m talking about, even if it IS my job.

OK, I’ll stop ranting for now.

Today was supposed to be a happy day.

At least it’s Friday, and no incompetent jackass on the planet can change that.

~Elisha

[**Jennifer**]

Elisha, I'm so sorry. I can only imagine the words you want to type over & over right now. This may or may not help, but as you know, I do this for a living. Call the title company who is supposed to be doing the closing. you want a copy of the title work showing the lien that's there. Check your public records to see if there might have been a release that is recorded.

And yes, there are people at fault here. The title co would have noticed the title defect on the title search, which they have no doubtedly had for more than 1 day, and the lender would have also had the title work, and couldn't prepare a closing package without clear title.

The good news is that if they get payoff info for the lien, it can be paid off, and recorded as a part of your closing, so that you don't lose that much more time. Hound them. Daily. If they missed something this big, they will need some babysitting and prodding to follow through. PM or email me if there's anything that I can do- heck, I can conference call them with you and take turns reaming them out. ;)

[miss_elisha]

OK, update.

The lawyer said that the lien release is being taken care of and whatever needs to be done is being done. We've got an offical time for the closing: Wednesday at 10.00 am. Better late than never, I suppose.

On the bright side, perhaps I will get to take Thursday AND Friday off from work next week. I'd much rather be cleaning and painting my new house than sitting in my office being yelled at by people who blame me for things I didn't do. :)

Jennifer, thanks for your offer to help. Personally, I think part of the problem is that my name isn't on the loan so I don't get to hound them at all. They don't even bother to talk to me. I guess they're not aware that if I'm not happy, Steve's not happy. But he's not so good with the hounding, or the reaming. But yes, I think if there had been a bit (ok, a good bit) more hounding from the beginning, we'd have had our house months ago.

OK, back to work! It's turned out to be a busy day.

~Elisha

[Betani]

Haven't been able to tally up calories the last couple days. Last night DH and I were playing computer games, and this morning was taken up preparing the crock pot for tonight. I have everything written down, though, and I will wrestle the computer away for a few minutes tonight to get into my Fitday.

I did my library laps today, even though I didn't want to. I had to, though, and I need to walk more tonight because I secumbed to 2 chocolate covered oreos today. :o

I'm trying to mindlessly coast through work today, but it's difficult with the arthritis in my back acting up. My heart just doesn't seem to be into anything at all anymore. I just can't pull myself out of this funk.

***

Elisha-- Yikes! On one hand, it's great that things are finally getting taken care of, but on the other hand, doesn't it just bite to have the wind taken out of your sails when you need some kind of release? If I'd been in your shoes, I'd need to do 2 hours worth of jumping jacks to get the anger out of my system. I hope you get both your days off next week, you deserve them!

Jennifer-- Sounds like things are going well! It took me quite a while to get used to all the extra water, but I finally did, too.

Lisa-- Sounds like it was a nice getaway for you. That was so nice of your MIL. I can just picture her making up that story to the kids!

Julie-- I'm a little low myself on positive vibes, but I'll cut mine in half and share them with you. Fruit is very sweet! You'll be just fine :)

Joy-- You're doing great! Keep it up!

***

Shoot, time to get back to work...

[TBJ333]

Check out my avatar. 'Nuff said. :D

***

MsRD -- Re: your journey... life is a circle. :p

Joy -- Sounds like you had a nice, solid day. :)

Julie -- <Bzzzz> <-- Feel the positive vibes. :D

Lisa -- What a kind MIL. :) Heh heh about your hubby... he sure got you exercizin'. :p

Jennifer -- Wow, you're being so careful at work... maybe the new chick has some redeeming qualities? And the bar exam date... TOO SOON! :lol: Feb. 21 and 22.

Elisha -- Aw, :hug: Whoah, MAJOR incompetence. Uh, a lien on the house? Uh, hello, major issue? Uh, hello, freakin' negligent agents? Rarr. And why can't men just let us be mad sometimes? :( Gad to hear that you have some of the issues sorted out now. :grouphug:

Betani -- Hey, you're being responsible by slugging through the day... shows that you can accomplish what needs to be done without having to be motivated right at the particular moment. :)
***

My January loss was 3 lbs. On track for Elisha's wedding. (255 days...) My Febuary goal will be to lose 2.5 lbs.

Onwards...

[MsRD]

Happy Friday!

I am soooo glad it is Friday.....it has been a long week and I am bone tired. DH dropped some lumber on his foot Wednesday and went to the doctor today (without my prodding, so that should have been my first clue!) and doctor diagnosed major infection......halfway up to his knee....and if it isn't better by tomorrow AM, I have to take him to ER. Sheesh.

Joy.....It sounds like you had a good day, and if you have enough of those in a row, you will be shopping in the junior department!

Julie.....These Michigan winters are enough to drag anyone down....one gray day after another! We should be used to it by now, right? If it is halfway decent tomorrow, I will take the dog for a walk....that always helps elevate my mood!

Lisa.....What a sweet MIL! And I had to LOL at her ice cube theory! You got 1) time away, 2) time with DH and 3)a workout at the health club.....what a great day!

Jennifer....With everything going crazy in your life, you are still managing to keep the water and food on track! Way to go! And I am counting packing and unpacking as major exercise workout too!

Elisha....Grrrr! You have been patient so long with this nincompoops and now they drop the ball at the last minute! Glad it got put back together for you.....and you sure do deserve a few days off!

Betani.....Yep, I diagnose you with the dreaded February Funk. It's everywhere! Ok.....shoulders back, head up, just keep plowing through! And you get extra points for doing your library laps when you really didn't want to!

TBJ.....Love the new avatar! You go girl! Did you say you were taking the bar exam February 21/22? This year? Yikes. Back to the books, girl.....make us proud!

Water was good today. Food was good.....with perhaps a slight indiscretion of a hot fudge sundae, as requested by DGS. I haven't added them up, so I think the calories are still in line. Did 30 minutes WATP......I can tell I have been skipping exercise of late, as I am really stiff and sore. I think I may wait a day or two before I kick up the intensity.
have a great weekend!

[hikein2005]

in my coffee...no sugar tonight in my tea...la n da la n da la n da da...la n da la n da la n de...(some of you may remember that tune...)

YES! I did it! I went the whole day without any sweets/sugar! :carrot: I didn't even want any. I handled chocolate chip cookies sevaral times at work (the resident sold them), had chips and cheese dip with the residents and didnt' even look in the freezer at work for icecream (I know there's some n there)!!! I'm so proud of myself! I forgot how much of a headache these withdrawls can be! I'll be gentle on myself, though!

Tomorrow I will have my Latte (maybe 2) in the morning...and will NOT have sugar again tomorrow! Can I do this two days in a row??? I know all your positive vibes helped! Thank you so much!

Hugs to everyone and I promise I will do comments tomorrow!

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

This weekend wasn’t too bad. I kind of… what’s the word?... ignored my diet from Wednesday through Friday, so I tried to make up for it over the weekend. But, this being Superbowl weekend, I only managed to do so-so.

Saturday was good. Could have used a bit more water, but overall it was pretty good. And yesterday was ok. Again, more water would have helped, but it wasn’t too bad. This morning the scale is at 214.4, so still up overall, but down from where I was Saturday morning.

Food today will be good though. Breakfast was decent, I’ve got a Lean Cuisine Thai-style chicken and some pumpernickel bread for lunch (and I know I’ll actually eat it, because it’s just plain yummy), and fruit for a snack. And I’ll get in lots of water today too, because I’m starting to feel that dull headache that tells me I’m not drinking enough.

My back is still killing me. I don’t know what I did to it to make it give me this much trouble. I think perhaps it’s how I sleep. And I’m still not sleeping well, or enough. *sigh* This Sunday, I’m not going to do anything major, just some slight unpacking. I may even skip bowling just so I can go to bed early.

So we’re closing Wednesday morning, unless something else comes up (which honestly would not surprise me at this point), cleaning and painting Thursday, moving Friday. Saturday we’re supposed to go to Pittsburgh, though we may reschedule those appointments so we can finish moving.

I’m kind of in a mopey mood today, but I think I’m just tired. But anyway, I’m going to cut this short and try to get something done, because I’ve got a lot to do today. Have a good one, chicks.
~Elisha

[**Jennifer**]

Morning, chickadees! :) Happy Monday. Well, yeah, ok, Monday.

This weekend wasn't quite what had been planned. Poured all night Friday night, and all day Saturday. Cable dude stood me up on Saturday, even after calling and getting him at 2pm, confirming he'd be there between 1-4pm. He assured me he'd be there, and then, no show. I called several more times, and even had hubby call from back at the townhouse. After more than an hour of being routed from person to person in different departments, he worked his way to a supervisor, who wouldn't even call the dang cell # of their installer, giving us the runaround. Grrr. So, no cable, so the only channel we get is NBC, with rabbit ears. Not a lot to choose from, right?

Hubby stayed back in order to get caught up with work, and that didn't go as planned, either. He was supposed to come up Saturday night and bring my briefcase, so that I'd have laptop battery & cables, and more importantly, be able to get online over the weekend. No such luck. He decided that he was too tired to drive an hour to the house. So, I was stuck & only had about 2 hours of juice on the laptop battery (it's my work laptop that I took home so I could bring it up) so I basically speed-typed as many recipes from my cookbooks (South Beach, Sonoma, Mediterranean) into a document, and kept saving, not knowing when the laptop would die. After that, I called it a night, and never made it past the 11pm news.

I'll update the recipe thread with the newest recipes- I don't think there are any duplicates, but it has been so long since I added to that thread, I might take a quick once over....

Zone bar breakfast done, diet coke quick-starter done, and into my first 32oz of water. Lunch is going to either be a turkey breast sammitch (delivered) or chicken breast & yellow rice, (also delivered) as I forgot that I have to cover the front desk for the receptionist's lunch.

Have a great Monday everyone!

[lisa girl]

You're not going to belive this!!! But..it's been snowing here! HOORAY! Giant, beautiful flakes all morning long! I think it is the prettiest snow I have ever seen :). Well..now the rain has come, but at least we got to see snow, and it turned everything white for a few hours at least :).

I did poorly this weekend with my eating, although exercise was super. Did 1 hour on the treadmill on Sat. and 45 min. on the treadmill on Sunday. Today, I am planning to get in at least 45 min. And, I am back on track with my eating! It's about time! Why I can't get a grip on the emotional eating is unknown to me :(. Thank goodness for starting anew.

Well, my house is upside down....I didn't do much this weekend at all, and I need to go catch up. Hope you all have a marvelous day!!!!

[TBJ333]

Hello!

Saturday was green and yesterday was yellow. Today should be green.

Jujitsu is really good for cutting down on late night eating. I have to eat dinner by 5:00 so that I don't have food in my stomach when I roll around on the ground and have people throw me. And by the time I come home and finish showering, it's past 9:30, and I'm pretty much ready for bed. No lame excuses from me tomorrow, I promise! :)

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

Well, yesterday was a good day. 1272 calories (7 calories under budget!), water was 108 oz or so, but still no exercise. Right now I feel like I’m just waiting until we move. I know that’s a pitiful excuse. If I want to exercise, I have to clean my room, and I don’t really want to do that since I’m going to have to do it in a couple more days anyway. *shrugs* Yeah, I know.

But the scale is down to 213.2 this morning! Yippee! And if I start exercising again either today or tomorrow, I can still make my goal of 20 days this month… if I exercise every single day. But frankly, I’m going to count moving and cleaning and so forth as exercise, and I have every intention of taking daily walks, so it’s not entirely out of the scope of possibility.

Other random good news… I’ve picked up my writing again. I’ve even started (yet another) blog to keep up with it and post some pieces. Sort of. I’m sure there will be random rantings and ravings on there as well too. Actually, there already is. Expect more. Not really much writing type stuff up there yet, but I promised a friend I would get some up today, so I’ll work on that. But I feel good about it. Writing is sort of a release for me. After writing a bit last night, I’m in a much better mood today than I have been in a while. That’s a good thing.

http://miss-elisha.livejournal.com/

OK, that’s pretty much it for me today, because I’ve got a bunch of stuff to do. Have a good one, chicks!
~Elisha

[hikein2005]

I'm home today! I just felt like I needed a day off and I kept DD home with me too. Hubby just called and he just "doesn't understand" why I would keep her home!!! Whatever! Men...they just have to have control over everything or it's "wrong"!!!!

So...in the food department. I did two days in a row last week without sugar of any kind (Friday & Saturday)!!!! Then on Sunday, it was just a bad, bad, bad day! I took a nap in the afternoon and when I woke up, I wanted to make brownies! So I did! And I had two of them! And on Sunday night, I put them all in baggies in the freezer. Then yesterday I went all day without any kind of sugar (and I was tempted to have some ice cream from the freezer at work) and at a good dinner, then last night the frozen brownies were calling...I broke one in half and ate that! Then about 20 minutes later went and got the other half! So...that's it for the sugar! I'm going to try again today to stay away from the sugar!

In the exercise department...it's been ZIP (well, aside from a quick walk around the block with DH and the dog on Sunday...as well as a brisk walk to the car on Sat. night from the Hockey arena)! I have not felt like exercising, I have not felt like doing much of anything actually (which probably explains why I am home today!) I really think I need to get on something for this feeling of being down. Who was talking about something natural here on this group? I would much prefer to stay away from RX meds, but really think my (growing older) body is in need of SOMETHING to help me feel better! I have an appointment for my annual physical coming up next month and will ask my Dr. about something. I'm pretty sure my hormones are changing and if I remember my Mom when she was my age (45), she became a real BEAR to live with (might have had something to do with raising 7 kids alone...4 of us were teen agers then!)

Anyway...sorry to be such a downer today! I will TRY to go exercise this morning before I get showered! Maybe I can get in 25 minutes. Might do me some good, too!

I weighed myself yesterday, just to see how things were going over the weekend...and while I am watching my carb/protein/fat regimen, the scale didn't show a loss. I will weigh again on Thursday as that is my "weigh day"! We shall see! I'm sure if I could get this metabolism of mine going, the weight would come off a bit easier! Maybe some green tea would help...I have read lots of good stuff about it! Can anyone else attest to that?

I haven't made comments in a while, so here goes...

Elisha...you sound like I feel, chickie! But you have a lot going on inyour life, too...dont' let it all overwhelm you! Just take one minute at a time...write down some things that you want to get done (short & long term) and start plucking away at them (I'm so good at giving out advice, eh? ;) )

TBJ...CONGRATULATIONS on reaching that 30# mark!!!!! Determination is your middle name, I think!!!! WAY TO GO!!! And good going on all those green days! YAY!!!

Lisa...SNOW???? What????? I hope you and the boys enjoyed it! I know you have been wanting it for a while....maybe there is some truth to the MIL theory about PJ's & ice cubes!!! LOL! And you are doing awesome on that treadmill, chickie! Keep it up!

Jennifer...oh what I would give for a night alone!!! LOL!!! Those darned cable guys!!! Stood you up...I hope they got an earful from you! Did you have time to do any sort of a workout..WATP? Your lunch yesterday sounds healthy!

MsRD...Hope the hubby is ok. Sheesh...you sure have been spending a lot of time making trips to the hospital lately! Hope you have some time for yourself soon! You still manage to keep an upbeat positive attitude through it all! You are awesome!

Betani...What's with this mid winter funk, huh??? Geesh...what do we need to do to get that zip back in our minds, hearts and mostly bodies? Maybe we could have a mini challenge the rest of this week. I'll try to come up with something and post it later. Good for you on walking even when you didn't feel like it! Maybe we could call this mini challenge the "Act as if" challenge! As in..."Act as if we are feeling wonderful and full of energy..." Maybe it's worth a try!

Joy...Where are you chickie?? I miss you and your wonderful posts! I hope you are doing well! Just because this isn't the accountability challenge, doesn't mean you don't have to check in....;) Hope all is well :hug:

OK...chickies...I need to go do something productive...I have a bazillion things to pick from, but need to just pick ONE! Maybe ride the bike???

HUGS to all!

[TBJ333]

Eh, not much activity on this thread. *shrugs* Come back, people!

Yesterday was a green day. I ate too much for lunch today, so I am facing the prospect of rabbit food for dinner. Promised Hubby I'd make a new recipe, but I really want to stay in my calorie limit, and the way things are going, all I can eat for dinner is a salad!

I have only myself to blame... need to cut down on the big lunches like I said I would.

[**Jennifer**]

Evening, chickies!

I tried twice today to peek in from work, but since I had the NewGirl (TM) with me, I was lucky to even get a chance to get up to pee! She's finally learning some of the easier functions, so we'll be in a good position by early March, and I can hopefully relinquish some of the many duties still hanging over me.

I was sooo tired when I got home. Sat down for 15 minutes with hubby, and next thing you know, I was dozing off. Still sitting here yawning. I know I need to kick the exercise into gear, but it looks like that may come together soon. Hubby is now more motivated to get things moved into the new house. We might make a BeastRun up there after work tomorrow, which would let us clear out more stuff from storage, and then this weekend, plan on doing it again, both days. If we can get all the minor stuff up, then we can work on the big things.

We did look at furniture for his office, especially since that will be the money-making center of the house, and needs to be set up for long hours and lots of clutter, since he spreads his stuff out over every available surface. We found a nice setup at Office Depot this weekend. I can't believe that it will cost almost 3x as much for the new setup as his original office stuff did 10 years ago. Yikes! And that's just the U-shaped desk & hutch!

I put up a lot of recipes yesterday, so there's some new stuff for ya to check out, and get some ideas from. Lots of things with ginger and garlic, and some new southwest / smoky things with smoky peppers and stuff. Anything to disguise a chicken breast, right?

Ok, time to figure out dinner, before I conk out. Have a great night, chickies. Elisha, good luck on your closing tomorrow- this one HAS to go off without a hitch!

[**Jennifer**]

oh- let me get opinions...hubby & I have seen this breakfast nook / dining set several times, and we keep coming back to it. Opinions? Pros & cons of a glass top table?

http://i23.ebayimg.com/01/i/05/20/f2/13_2.JPG

[lisa girl]

I convinced DH that we needed to go TOGETHER to check out the cardio Hip Hop class at the fitness center we just joined. My DH is very tall, and a big guy-not fat, just big! He was the ONLY man in the room, and the room was full! LOL...here is how we looked doing the moves in the class::carrot: !! LOLOLOL!!!!!!!! Poor DH..he felt so out of place. But, he is the best sport of anybody I have ever met, and I respect him for sticking things out. I am evil!!:devil: This instructor did a lot of choreography..and lots of shakin your booty! I really liked the class, and I will be back. I am already stiffening up..gotta get ahold of the epsom salts tonight!

Food today was excellent..water was average. Exercise consisted of the class I just described, along with 30 min. on the treadmill this morning. A green day for me!

And now..I'm going to bed early! Woo hoo!!!:D


Joy, MsRD...where are you????????:?: Hope you are doing well!!

[lisa girl]

Jennifer, dear, let me bring my 3 boys down there...and you would have the cons of the glass topped table!! LOL!

Seriously, with the 2 of you, it would be more manageable. I guess fingerprints and smudges would show easier than wood...but I know you are a neat gal, and you wouldn't have problems with that like I would!! ;)

That set looks very classy indeed :). I say go for it!

[MsRD]

Hi!

Whew! I feel like I've just 'landed' after a busy day......accountant was in this AM to close out 2005 (which went incredibly smoothly!)....then after work stopped at Arby's for dinner and then on to see Mom. Zipped on home, gave DH a hug, did a load of laundry, mopped the kitchen floor, cleaned the half bath, and did 30 minutes with Leslie (my arms & legs felt like lead.....what is up with that?) Please notice there was no post-Mom visit binge.....I think i have learned to deal with that trigger at last! Just keep moving!

Lisa....So glad you enjoyed the snow! It really is beautiful here too......last weekend we got a couple of inches and it just 'frosted' the trees. Despite the cold temps and a brisk wind blowing across the open fields, I couldn't stay inside.....dog and I had a wonderful walk!

TBJ.....So, the cure to eating after 8pm is jujitsu? Wow! And so much easier than having my lips sutured shut!

Julie.....Those brownies can be so tempting! With me, it's cookies.....can't even have them in the house anymore! When they start calling your name, put on your coat and mitties and walk around the block until the feeling fades!

Jennifer.....I love the dinette set! I suppose fingerprints would show worse than with a wood table.....but a little spritz and wipe and that would take care of that! I don't know the size of your dinette, but a glass table would make the area look larger, if that is a consideration.

[hikein2005]

Quick note here...yea, right! ;)

OK...so despite my "playing hookey" today...some things happened!

1. Hubby optimized the computer and it runs like a gem now! It was getting soooooo slllloooowwww....

2. I went to the Podiatrist...FINALLY! He gave me a shot of cortisone, after taking some x-rays. I have a bone spur which causes inflammation on the plantar fascia...which in turn casues pain in the heel area! I knew that! So the shot has releived some of the "hard pain" but it is achy all over in my foot (whine, whine, whine). I have an RX to get custom orthotics in both my shoes...my arch is very defined which puts more pressure on both the heel and the ball of the foot...yada yada yada! The x-rays also indicated another area near the great toe which could be potential problem area...but he didn't seem too concerned about at this time! I go back for a re-check in 4 weeks. I will have my new orthotics by then and hopefully, I will be able to start some walking again!

Funny thing...he was saying things like "active people like you..." and we want you to continue with your "acitive lifestyle"!!! At one point, I said "You can see that I'm not really ALL that active, can't you???" He laughed and said "but you do enjoy those kinds of activities like walking, hiking & biking, right?" Ok, ok...I give up!

3. I worked out today for 30 minutes on the bike! I guess that's ACTIVE, isn't it? I thought maybe it would do me some good and get my head in a better space...and it did! :)

4. Did some "research" and I'm thinking about getting some "natural" mood elevator. Or...maybe I just need to up the exercise...get those endorphins going! Some sunshine would help, however :sunny:

Jennifer...I like the table. It goes well with your vision of your decor for your home! As long as you don't let it be a "dumping ground" for everything when you walk in the door...especially KEYS! We have a glass table top on one of our coffee tables and it is scratched (Kaleigh plays with her horses on it...thank goodness she doesn't like matchbox cars!), but it does clean up easily. Hope you enjoyed your nap!

TBJ..."Eh, not much activity on this thread. *shrugs* Come back, people!"
What am I...Chopped Liver??? ;) Or perhaps you just didn't like the negative vibes I was sending out... OK...you are forgiven! :p

Lisa...My...aren't we the busy ones...Hip Hop? Do you just TRY to see what you can pack in a day??? LOL!! Thanks for your kindness earlier!

MsRD...Great going on the visit with your Mom. You have had success!!! YEA!!! I'm proud of you! Sometimes just talking about it with a bunch of other chickies makes all the difference...I sure can attest to that!

Hugs to all of you and thanks for sending those good vibes! :goodvibes
:hug: :grouphug: :hug:

[miss_elisha]

Oh HAPPY DAY!

I’m officially a homeowner! Hooray!

And it’s about damn time!

However, I’ve also the new owner of a nasty cold… started yesterday with a sore throat, and this morning I woke up with not only the sore throat, but also with a stuff head, fits of sneezing, and all-over ache. Bleh.

So anyway, yesterday was good. Calories came in at 1437, water was 108 oz. The scale this morning said 213.4. But then I went to Hardee’s for breakfast, because before I left the house the thought of food made me want to vomit, but by the time I was 10 miles away my stomach was about ready to eat my pancreas. Not that I didn’t expect that.
But lunch and snacks will be good.

But I’ve got lots of work to do today, so I’ve got to cut this short. I’m so glad my co-worker is coming back tomorrow. And that I won’t be here tomorrow and Friday (I’ll be cleaning and painting!).

Have a great day, chicks!

~Elisha

[**Jennifer**]

Yawn! Sorry chickies, this will be a super-quickie. NewGirl sat with me again for the better part of the day. I am so tired. And so tired of talking, too! We bought the dining room set tonight, and now that dinner is done, well, I'm struggling to keep my eyes open. My body knows I need the rest, but somehow I know if I go to bed at 8pm, I'll be up at midnight walking the floors, or I'll wake up with a start at 3am, and then be stuck awake :)

Everyone, have a great night. Tomorrow, I will make it in here earlly, even if I have to get to work at 7am to do it without an audience ;)

[lisa girl]

Whew.....what a busy day! I ran all day! This morning, after getting all the kids fed, dressed, hair fixed, backpacks loaded, in the car, drive to school, come home, get the little one to preschool, go to the store to buy supplies for the class I teach on Wednesdays, come home, run some items over to DH at his job, go to a new exercise class (Yo-Lates..a combo of yoga and pilates, which I loved :) ), come home to shower, pick up little one from preschool, go to the school's workroom to prepare some more stuff for my class, run the items across campus to my classroom, drive to Burger King to get my little one some nuggets, run back to school, teach my class, load the students all up in the right cars, drive home, get the kids off the bus, give the kids a snack, load all 3 kids up in the car, take them to their exercise class at the gym, drive back home, get together a shopping list, counsel a crying friend on the phone, talk to a couple of other people quickly on the phone about various things, run to 2 stores to find items to make a tote bag for my ds's kindergarten teacher, go to Publix and grab a taco kit, drive back home, cook dinner while coaching 2 kids on homework, clean up the kitchen, put 2 kids in the tub while I still help one ds with mulitplication homework and grammar homework, get the 2 kids out of the tub, dry them off, get them into pj's, get other ds in the tub, dried off, and then brush teeth of all 3, coax all 3 into bed and chat a bit with each child, return to kitchen to clean up some more and load dishwasher, go out to computer and type up a logo for the teacher's tote bag and realize I have no color ink cartridge, call MIL, e-mail logo to MIL, drive over to MIL's house to pick up logo, drive back home, talk briefly with DH, preheat iron, and then log onto 3FC to write this...............and I'm about to go into the kitchen to work on the bag. And, I have about another hour of stuff to do. REALLY. THIS IS MY LIFE. THIS IS MY LIFE. THIS IS MY LIFE.

I do this every day.

But, I love my life. I really do :). Wow..that felt great to put all of that into words!!

[lisa girl]

K......now that I got all that off of my chest :).

Eating was good today. Water was average. Exercise was really good. A green day!

I will comment tomorrow. Just know, that I am rooting for all of you..all of US! We can do this. We are worth it...every one of us deserves to feel better, look better, BE HEALTHIER. Eating right and exercising, while really hard to work into our schedules is doable. It is possible to work it in no matter how busy we are. I have made excuses of every kind for as long as I remember, and now I am ready to take control. The cookies are losing their power. They do not dictate to me. I absolutely, positively refuse to take orders from a cookie. Ditto for the fries............I am in charge!!

Blessings to all of you! Have a terrific evening! (what's left of it!! :))

[hikein2005]

I just realized I didn't check in last night...I was soooo darned tired! I was awake half the night onTuesday, so went to bed early last night! That sure felt good...Well I guess if you consider 9:30 early...it was early for me. :)

Yesterday I got a good dose of sunshine and it looks like today is going to start out the same. YEA!!! :sunny: I took a walk to the grocery store at my lunch hour yesterday, so it felt good to just be outside and have the sun shining on my face...even if it didn't reach much over 25degrees! ;)

Food was ok. Iate a few bites of raisin oatmeal cookies that the residents & I baked yesterday, but didn't go much further than that! I found some seafood salad (no pasta) and some whole wheat pitas which I made into a sandwich for my lunch yesterday. It was pretty good...probably a bit high on the fat content in the salad, but beats pizza and all those "bad" carbs! Last night was spaghetti. I just realized that I had NO fruits or veggies yesterday (unless you count the spaghetti sauce and the little bit of celery in the salad)...so that won't help with my weigh in this morning, will it? I have a lunch at work that I made yesterday but didn't feel like eating! Guess I will eat that for lunch today.

Water was a bit down yesterday. I feel thirsty this morning which means I need to start chugging as soon as this Latte is gone! I'm thinking maybe I will wait until tomorrow to weigh in...:?:

Lisa...Your day...as usual just makes me tired to read it! No wonder you fall asleep with the boys at night! ;) Goodness...I can't imagine you having a full time job outside of being a Mom and a wife! :hug:

Jennifer...Yea on ordering that table! I hope you have a super day today, too!

Elisha!!! So happy for you chickie!!:woo: :cheers: :cheer: :flow2: :flow1:
It's about time!!!! Now...let's hope things to smoothly from here on...you have fun with this "project" (cause you KNOW it will be one!) and I hope to hear more about what fun things you are doing in/to that house! :) And we need to see more pictures! :D Please! ;)

As for the rest of y'all...PLEASE COME CHECK IN!!! I MISS YOU!!!!

TBJ...you are excused until your bar exam is finished, but maybe just a quick check...have you seen the preview for the movie with the reference to Jujitsu...I couldn't help but think of you!!! LOL!

Have a great Thursday! Hugs,

[hikein2005]

and thought it was worthy of posting here!



Laying down your arms, surrendering, saying you are sorry, realizing that you have been on the wrong track and getting ready to start life over again from the ground floor - that is the only way out of a hole.


-C.S. Lewis

[hikein2005]

Yup...that's my little girl! On her dirt bike! She's a biker chick!!! :D

[hikein2005]

Anyone out there???

[TBJ333]

Hellooo...

*TBJ types on her computer, looking up into the sky, with the song Somewhere Out There playing in her head. TBJ just knows that there is someone out there, full of love... could it be... Julie? :p *

That song always sounded so plaintive!

Red day on Tuesday, green day yesterday. Went biking this morning. I have met my goal of four green days this week and one day of non-jujitsu exercise. Yay. :)

I am just craving, craving, craving a giant restaurant meal of junk food. But tomorrow is weigh-in day. I don't want to blow it.

***
Jennifer -- Maybe there's a recipe for a chicken bra to disguise chicken breast? :p Cute dining set... cons of a glass table include constant smudges, distraction when using the surface for writing, and glare. Invest in a tablecloth!

Lisa -- Heh heh, your story reminds me of when I was in college, and this one guy came to a kickboxing class. He probably thought the class was more martial than it was -- I felt embarassed for him. Yo-lates sounds hip-hop. :p

MsRD -- Suturing your lips shut would probably hurt less than the Crushing Testicles Throw I learned a while back (yes, that's what it's called). Good for you for not binging after you saw your mom.

Julie -- Bet it must have felt good to have your doc call you "active." :D Good luck with the orthodics. My mom had a hard time adjusting to them. Yeah, you know I think of you as chopped liver... chopped tofu liver... mmm, that yummy Julie... *drool* :p And no, I have no idea about what movie you're talking about... details?

Elisha -- Just one thing to say: :dance: So happy to hear you got your house. :hug:
***

Just half a day more until I weigh myself... Must. Stay. Strong.

[**Jennifer**]

Hey chickies. I got to the office early- before the crack of dawn, it felt like. Figured I could get my diet coke, eat my Zone bar in peace, and get a post in. Nope! Guess who was already there, and waiting for me to show up! Yup, the NewGirl. Big ole Eff Word, I tell ya. And then, when I tried to take lunch, she needed computer help, and since I'm apparently 98% responsible for all her training (Roid can't be bothered to make the time) ((or Roid's 3 physical therapy appointments and 1 dr appt per week are starting to interfere with her ability to get work done)) I had to suck it up and get her set up.

Breakfast was good, water sucked. Instead, it was like there was a conveyor belt of diet coke coming my way. I seem to be predictable. Those who want help, come bearing an ice cold can of diet coke, which they present, along with their problem. It's almost comedic, but I had my regular diet coke this morning for breakfast, and then at noon, Roid bought me a can to go with lunch, since she had changed her appointment at the last minute AGAIN, and then by 2pm, a loan officer who was having problems with a property came to pick my brain, gave him 2 options as to how to move forward, told him print up the appraisal & bring it over, and next thing you know, he's there, appraisal, and diet coke in hand. The kicker was that before the 4pm meeting we got called into, Roid comes in with another diet coke. I know at that point, the meeting was going to suck, because she's sucking up twice in one day, so it had to be bad news. ;)

Now that I'm peeing pure diet coke, I think I'll be up late tonight from all the caffeine. Nope, I actually just yawned twice. What's with that?!?!?!

Dinner will have to be a lot more sensible. And water for the rest of the night, even though I discovered the BEST thing in the world next to diet coke with lime. Drum roll....... it's diet black cherry vanilla coke! Hubby got me a little bottle to try, and YUMtastic!!!! Now I'll have to clear the shelves before they discontinue it!

will try to get back here later to comment- seems we're all having that kind of hectic week....time to take a deep breath, and realize tomorrow is Friday, and then we'll have the weekend to make things easier. :grouphug:

[**Jennifer**]

TBJ, missed ya there in the typing! :) I wonder if there's a CTT for women....and what they'd call it. I need to master that for workplace nuisances! :D :lol3:

[**Jennifer**]

:lol3: <---- have I mentioned lately that this smiley just slays me? I can't help but giggle at the poor maniacal laughing green guy. Can you tell I need this weekend?

[MsRD]

Hello all!

Sorry to have been missing in action......I spilled the tiniest bit of water on my keyboard and fried it. Actually, about half of the keys still worked, but the rest made my post like like I had written it in Chinese! Anyway, DH sprang into action and bought me a new wireless keyboard & mouse.....woohoo! Now, I just have to figure out what all these extra keys are for......:D

Julie......You are doing so well with your eating! You have the power! Glad to hear you saw the podiatrist....pretty soon we will have nice weather and you will want to go hiking again!

Elisha.....Congratulations to the happy homeowner! Because it has been such a long time in coming, the reward should be twice as sweet! Hope you feel better by moving day!

TBJ......4 green days this week......another winner! You are doing absolutely incredible! How is the studying coming along?

Jennifer.....Awww....Jennifer has a new best friend in NewGirl. For all your effort, I hope she is catching on and will be a help to you.

Lisa.....The cookies are losing their power over you? Incredible! Those are the kind of cookies I need to buy! I did get a package of cookies from the store this week, but deliberately chose ones I don't particularly care for...hopefully, that will help.

I have been on a dead run all week.....please tell me tomorrow is Friday! Water has been good, exercise ok.....food not so good. I am sure it has a lot to do with my crazy schedule this week.....when I plan meals I do fine, but when I am in a rush, it is a quick fast food drive thru. I really should weigh in this weekend, but am not looking forward to it!

[hikein2005]

Thanks for posting everyone! :D

And...I weighed today! Yes, I did...and....
the scale is DOWN 3/4 lb!!!! So I'm heading in the right direction! Finally!

The bad part is, I have gone almost a whole week without sugar and tonight DH brought home these "Chinese" cookies which tasted like a "nutter butter" cookie...I ate 4 of them...and 2 spoonfuls of icecream (chocolate)...and now...my stomach feels like crap...all bloated and stuff! GRRRR!!! I can't even blame it on PMS!

But...I have forgiven myself and am moving on...forward...Drinking water like crazy...and about to go to bed! That would be good!

TBJ...I love your humor! I'm so glad you feel the love! :hug: And that SONG...was an oldie...and I probably didn't have the "doo-wops" in the right place!!! ;) I can't even remember the reference and the post is too far gone from this page...doesn't matter! LOL! You are doing awesome, chickie...kick some butt for me! You are going to be at your goal in no time!

MsRD...I'm so glad to hear from you! I was getting worried! Glad it's just the keyboard and nothing more serious than that! AND...tomorrow IS Friday! YEA! Enjoy your weekend!

Jennifer...You...stood me up! :p I love that Diet Cherry Vanilla stuff too! Yummy! Have a restful weekend! You need it!

Hugs to all! I'll catch you tomorrow!

[lisa girl]

Hi girls :wave:!

Yesterday was a pretty good day..one very similar to the type I posted on Wed. Today is just as busy. I got some sleep last night..finally! On Wed. night, because I took a decongestant before bed, I was up until 4 a.m.! :(

Food and water yesterday were just average, and there was no formal exercise. I was so sore and exhausted, i used yesterday as a day off. Does that sound like one of my old excuses?????/Hmm........ Anyway, today is treadmill, as I am taking my boys to the gym anyway for an activity class.

I need to run....must shower! Hopefully, I can comment later. Surely next week I will be better with my commenting :). Thinking of you all!

[Betani]

I haven't forgotten about the challange! This just hasn't been a good month for me so far. First mega stress-induced binging, now I'm recovering from food poisoning.

I'm not very talkative for the time being, but I am reading everybody!

[lisa girl]

Betani, I am so sorry to hear you haven't been feeling well. I had food poisoning once-it was so bad I had to be admitted to the hospital! I sure hope you feel better soon. :)

Julie- Glad to hear you are forgiving yourself and moving on. Good girl! Baby steps...we can do this!~

MsRD- Sounds like we both had hectic schedules this week! We usually go out to eat on Friday nights, but tonight I am staying home, getting in my p.j.'s and just resting some. HOpe you get some rest too!

Jennifer- LOL at the diet Coke parade!! I love diet Coke also! Diet Dr. Pepper is awesome too :).

TBJ- Hi! How are you?? HOpe you are well :).

Joy- Are you o.k.? We miss you!!!

Good news! I took the kids to their fitness classes today. For them (my 2 oldest) to participate, it takes a total of an hour. I went dressed to the gym, put my youngest in childcare, and I walked 45 min. on the treadmill, and then did 10 min. on the elliptical! Yahoo for me :)! I'm liking exercising better than I thought I would...now if I will just KEEP IT UP!!

Hope you all have an awesome weekend!!!! Take care :).

[**Jennifer**]

1 minute fly-by post to all the chickies, hoping everyone has a wonderful weekend- we're hitting the road, heading to the storage unit, and then the house, and we'll be back late Sunday night. Be good! ;)

[TBJ333]

Helloooo--

Weight stayed the same this week. I've been having a bit of trouble these past few days... must go grocery shopping soon!

My knee hurt too badly for me to do a back fall last night, so I had to sit out for Nage. I might take the next week and a half off of jujitsu to give my knee time to heal and my brain time to absorb some last minute law.

Cheers.

[hikein2005]

Oweee....TBJ! Yes...your poor knee...and brain! ;) Thanks for checkin in...and it's ok that the scale stays the same...just don't want to see it go up! I'm afraid mine is going to be the same if I don't get it in gear here soon! It's not been a great couple of days fo rme either!

[MsRD]

Hello! :wave:

DH and I worked yesterday building a loft in one of the barns.It will be 14'x10' and used for storage.....and apparently I am getting waayyyy too old for this kind of project, as I was exhausted! We got the main structure up and the 2x8 joists hung. No trouble sleeping last night!

Julie.....Don't you love it when the scale goes down? Good going you!

Lisa....You need some rest, chickie, to get over that cold! Just take a day off...put someone else in charge....get a nap!

Betani.....So sorry you are dragged down with stress this month. We have all been there......and food poisoning! Girl, you be careful...that can be nasty! Thanks for checking in......we know you are out there and are pulling for you, especially during the tough days.

TBJ....knee injury? How did you do that.....did I miss a post somewhere? Time to sit down and rest the body and exercise the brain.....that exam is coming up soon!

Joy...I miss hearing from you! Hope all is well.

Weighed in yesterday and was down a pound......nothing much to crow about, but a minor miracle as I have not been terribly vigilant in the food department. Still, it does give me a mental boost......encouragement to do better in the next week.
have a great day!

[hikein2005]

This is what I absolutely have to do! :) From the looks of this weekend and the things that I ate (a huge bowl of icecream last night, too many carbs for meals over the weekend, cookie at church, etc.) my planning was not successful..or perhaps my lack of planning! :o

So...it's back to the old standby's...cottage cheese & pineapple, whole wheat pitas and turkey, apples, salad, and the usual dinners ( taco salad, crockpot chicken, etc.) for me! I surely don't want that scale to show a gain this week!!! That would not make me a very happy person!

And...the workouts have got to be more consistent! I could have done one this morning...and should have...but I didn't! :( I will try to get in a short walk at lunch today or even ride the recumbent bike (there's one in the therapy room) at work on my lunch if I get a chance (if it's not being used)...

OK...so this week is going to be productive, busy and I am going to stay focused on my goal at hand. I am going to revise my goal of 27 lbs by April first because that is apparently not realistic! My goal is now to lose 1/2 of that... There's incentive now...we are going to visit my sister in Oregon the first week of April...she's the one I went hiking with last August!

Alright chickies...I just had to pump myself up! Thanks for being my sounding board!

Hugs!

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

So I haven’t been here for a few days because, as you can imagine, I’ve been moving. Well, not exactly moving. More like cleaning and painting and fixing with a little moving thrown in just for kicks. But now almost all of that is done, and all that’s left is the actual moving of stuff. We haven’t gotten to stay there yet, mostly because we have no way to cook. Steve is buying the new stove I picked out this morning, and hopefully it will be delivered tomorrow. We’ll move little stuff this week, then we’re planning on staying there starting Friday night. It’s been a lot of work, going to the house early in the morning and leaving late at night, and I’ve just been too exhausted to even check my email.
On top of all that, I’ve been sick as a dog all weekend. I said Wednesday that I was getting a cold, and it only got worse. Today I still feel like crap, but somewhat better than yesterday. I had to come back to work today, as today is my annual review (I find out if I’m getting a raise), and I’ve got a ton of stuff to do. But if I’m not feeling better by this afternoon, I may go home early.
So no formal exercise this weekend, as I was too busy working on the house. And my water and food just plain sucked. As a result, the scale is way up this morning, but I’m not too concerned about it. I’ll do well this week and hopefully be back where I was by next Monday. Food is on track today, and I’m already chugging water (I’m parched!). I don’t think I’ll be exercising, as I’m still… what’s the word?... exhausted. But it will be better. Maybe I’ll even get some sleep tonight. (It’s hard to sleep when you can’t breathe.)
I did take some pictures, but I’ll take some more once things are a little more finished and post them then.
Anyway, I’ve got a ton of stuff to do, so I think I’ll go take some more cold medicine and get to it. Have a good one, chicks.
~Elisha

[lisa girl]

Sorry I haven't posted..we haven't had internet! I have finally gotten a chance to check in!

The weekend was nice...lots of snow. IT was really gorgeous. My kids were very excited. It snowed all day Sunday and even lots yesterday, although no accumulation. It is 27 degrees this morning....brrrrrrrrr....

I ate badly this weekend. DH and I went out for our Valentine's Dinner. It was good..but really unhealthy. I have done really well so far this week..LOL it's only Tuesday!! But yesterday was stellar, with a step exercise class last night. Today is good so far too...gotta keep this up. Tonight will be the elliptical machine at the gym for 20 min. at least, followed by treadmill.

Hope you all have a super day!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[**Jennifer**]

Afternoon, chickies! Whew- finally got a break in the action here. I'm not sure I like being shadowed every waking hour I'm here. New Girl covers the front desk for the receptionist's lunch today, so I get about half an hour now where I'm alone, and loving every second of it! Freedom!

**** frolicking around the forum, and my cubicle ****

La la la la la la la! I'm unattended! And unsupervised! Woo Hoo! Happy No One Is Watching Dance! :)

I was going to get online last night and post the remaining recipes that I typed up from the house this weekend, but when I got home, the BellSouth dude was outside our house, which can never be good news! :lol3: Of course, they once again cut the phone lines to the house, this time, while they were planting some new hedging so that we'd have some privacy from the main road after everything blew down during Hurricane Wilma. We had phones back late last evening, but it is ALWAYS an adventure!

Food- bad today- forgot to bring in Zone bars for the breakfast of champions, and then the New Girl dragged me out to lunch at Chilis. I had the grilled chicken breast sandwich, but I only ate half the bun, and took off the bacon (left the cheese, though). And thankfully, the french fries were overly done & dark brown, so I was only tempted to eat the few lightest ones. I know we're not doing anything for Valentine's Day tonight- it's a "school night" so we'll postpone until the weekend, and do something up at the new house. Whew- already Tuesday, and we are HALFWAY THROUGH the dang month already. I'm not 92, time should not be whizzing by like this!

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone! :grouphug: Here's lots and lots of love for all the chickies who I couldn't do this without, for all their love and friendship and support, always! :grouphug:

[hikein2005]

a bit unmotivated! I guess it IS Valentine's Day, so does that give me an excuse??? LOL! Eating has been horrific for a week...I've got to stop this now! Exercise...non existant! The foot's been bothering me again a bit at night and I haven't felt much like doing anything once I get home...sound familiar??? This is a cycle for me...and I'm in the midst of the downward part right now...I've got to get out this instant!

I am going to try to get up early tomorrow and at least do some Tai Chi. My back has been quite achy lately at night...probably just arthritis, but maybe some stretching would help! Work's been exhausting (as usual) and I had to give two back to back inservices today and somehow fit in an activity for the residents...PLUS it was Valentine's Day! Phew! Thank goodness for my assistant! She saves my butt more than not! They are having a Valenine's/Pizza Party tonight and she's doing it! I'm too tired, anyway, but would have gone if I had to!

I'm off to go watch some TV (American Idol tonight!) and then hit the bed early!

Elisha...so glad you are in your new house (almost). Get some much needed rest and don't worry about us chickens! ;)

Jennifer...Girl...I'll bet you can't wait to get in your new home! One thing after another! Thanks for posting the recipes. Catch you soon!

Lisa girl...SNOW??? Looks like MIchigan is not the only one in the deep freeze, huh? Way to go on all those classes and exercise! You are gonna be a hot momma this summer!

Hugs to all!
Julie

[miss_elisha]

Morning chickies!

OK, so I was AWOL again yesterday. I took off from work and spent the day curled up in bed with my bottle of Vicks 44 and a box of tissues. I do feel better today though, if still not 100%. I think I just needed some rest, as I didn’t manage to get any this weekend. I was asleep around 9.30 last night, and tonight will hopefully be another early night for me.

I did drink a lot of water yesterday, which was surprising since I was at home (we had nothing else to drink in the house), but good nonetheless. I was thirsty all day! And (here’s a bit of trivia for you), your body can be 50-75% dehydrated before you even feel thirsty at all, so I know I needed that water. I’ll keep it up today.

I ate too much yesterday though. It was one of those days where the only thing in my head was food, what I could eat and how much and when, what it would taste like. And once I got started I just couldn’t stop. I resisted a few things, like the tortilla chips and salsa con queso, but I indulged in a few other things, like bread and butter and caramel Hershey kisses.

But the scale is at 214.4 today, still up from the beginning of the month (by a pound), but down from where it was Monday morning, so it’s ok. Then I go and get breakfast at Hardee’s this morning, including orange juice instead of my usual coffee. But lunch is a Lean Cuisine Panini (have you tried those yet? They are SO good!), my afternoon snack will be dried apricots, and dinner… who knows?

Our new stove got delivered yesterday. I’m so excited to cook on it, and with my fancy new cookware that I’ve been saving until we got in our new house. We still don’t have our bed there, so we’re still staying with my parents for the moment. We’re planning to start staying there Friday. I can’t wait!

Anyway, I’ve got a bunch of stuff to do today, after being out yesterday, so I’d better get going. Have a good one, chicks!
~Elisha

[MsRD]

Hello all!

WHAT DO YOU MEAN IT'S WEDNESDAY??!?!! Seems like I have been going in circles doing a hundred little errands.....sheesh! I had to stop tonight and get my car headlight fixed and the oil changed......for what I hope will be the last time! DH has been taking the 'new' car out and getting fluids changed, belts replaced....all the stuff that has gone to pot just setting for the past 3 years!

Julie....Try putting your plan down on paper. Somehow that always gives me someting concrete to refer to when I get off track.

Elisha....So sorry you have been sick, especially in what should be a most exciting time for you. What are you going to cook on that new stove? We will be expecting some wonderful recipes!

Lisa....Snow! Hasn't the weather been strange this year? The last weather report said that tonight and tomorrow we would get snow and freezing rain.....the commute in will be a challenge tomorrow!

Jennifer......I was hoping you would have NewGirl trained and chained to her own desk by now! Thanks for posting the recipes!

TBJ......I know you are studying hard, so I won't interrupt.....except to say YouGoGirl!

This week has been so hectic, I really don't know where I am with the diet program! Food is been okay, as has been the water.....could stand some more work in the exercise department though. (I did 30 minutes WATP tonight to get back on track) I am so tired, I think I will turn in early....

[lisa girl]

Last night ended up being the elliptical for 25 min! Tonight was a yoga class. Exercise has been great, but food just so/so..I've dipped into the flex points for some chocolate. So..I'm still technically on track. But-what's a girl to do when she has 3 boys bringing home all kinds of goodies from school??? Add in a DH that is a teacher bringing home stuff also. Today, I went to see DH at school and he said, "Here..take this...I am about to eat it..." (It was a Snickers bar given to him by a student). I handled it like a smoking gun...shoved it in my purse, and then took it to the preschool with me. Thought I would give it away, but no one wanted it. Come to think of it..it is still in there!! Yikes! I need to sling it into the dumpster.


MsRd- way to go with getting back on track with the WATP! You go girl!

Julie- How was your day?? Feeling more motivated? You can do this :).

Elisha- I sure hope you feel better soon. You need to show us some updated pics of the new house. I'm so happy for you!

Jennifer- You made me crack up describing your dancing around the cubicle! LOL!!

Well...I'm off to unload the dishwasher..and the dryer...and the kids' bookbags, etc. etc. etc.!!!

[**Jennifer**]

Wheee! I have a 10 minute break in the action. We're working on the last of our State Farm Hurricane Wilma claim, and someone had better fork over a big old check in a hurry! LOL.

Today has been another comedy of errors. NewGirl got her laptop today, and then needed help setting things up, so that was part of my day. And they made the announcement that they are closing down several support centers for the bank, so that's going to impact us slightly. Well, more than slightly. Too early to get too aggravated, but what can you do?

Got home, hubby killed an hour while I nagged at him to get to Office Depot. I don't know about other areas of the country, but here, if it is after 5pm, suddenly there's no one with any kind of authority whatsoever. Anywhere. And the hired help...well, run amock. After looking at the furniture last week, and deciding, and telling hubby to go ahead and order it, he procrastinated, ticked me off, and for the first time, it worked out to our advantage, because this week, there is FREE assembly with purchases of furniture, etc. Cool deal. That let us buy 2 other pieces with the $$ we saved on assembly. Now sure, we could put it together ourselves, but if you remember the bed fiasco, and hubby's attempt to remove all toes from my feet...it makes more sense for the pros to do it. And, if they break it, they have to replace it, which is the real reason I don't want to mess with an entire business office full of furniture.

After 2 hours in the store, and despite managers assertions that we can have delivery & assembly on the same day, after payment is rendered, they try to deliver on Monday, assemble on Thursday. Um, no- I only have off on Monday for the holiday. No can do. Can't be there during the day. And cannot expect hubby to cancel appointments & do that 2 days during the week. Pissing contest ensues. Husband ticked. Husband stands & is MUCH larger / taller than young gentleman helping us. Long story short, manager has to come in to the store from home, and call us after having made specific arrangements to have someone there on Tuesday afternoon, guaranteed. So help me, if this ends up like the Cable Guy from 2 weeks ago....office supplies for everyone from Jennifer Depot! ;)

Gotta call tech support for my work laptop tomorrow, too- for some reason, the "Company Proprietary Dial Up Software Thingie" doesn't like my password, since I haven't had to use it in a year. So, this past weekend's attempt to get online was foiled by my own lack of use, and not some complicated other issue. If I am spending 4 days up there (and 2 without cable- maybe more if I get stood up AGAIN on Saturday) I must have a lifeline to somebody! ;)

Missing everyone! (((( :grouphug:))))))) I need to get in here and leave comments, if I ever get 10 minutes of peace. It's hump day, chickies....almost made it through another week!

[cacmsc]

I'd like to join your group. Seems like a very motivated group and honest about life styles , changes etc. Recently I added walking to my weekly exercising and its really got me motivated. I also have a friend who has gotten more interested in changing her lifestyle after her stroke at 46 yrs.old. So together we are exercising with walking. I also belong to a gym and this week have tried to fit that in as well. Since sunday I have walked a total of 10.75 miles. We have a lovely state park with a small lake and then a bigger one. We walk the trails around the lake and it adds up to 4.0 miles. There are other trails and next wk. if weather permits we will go on them more hills etc.. I am trying to stay with in 1500 calories a day, make healthy choices increase veggies, fruits limit breads etc. I also switched to green tea in the afternoon while others have coffee. Changes of course are never easy for any of us but if we do them for at least 10 days it becomes more of a routine.
My reward for reaching my goal will be my trip to see my son and daughter in law in Hawaii 3/9th. So I have reason to be motivated. I want to look good while there and be healthy to do lots of adventurous things. Kayaking, hiking, swimming and of course walking daily when I can fit it in. I have set a goal of 10 miles a wk. and 1500 cals. a day, in hopes to lose 4 lbs. before my trip. My scale day is on friday thats when the white square come out of the closet. Good luck everyone and I look forward to sharing and learning along the way with all of you.

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

:welcome2: cacmsc! We’d love to have you join our group! The more the merrier! It sounds like you’ve got a good plan in place. A trip to Hawaii sounds like great motivation! Best of luck meeting your goals.

Jennifer: I hope everything starts going a little more smoothly with your moving process. We’re supposed to get cable installed on Tuesday, after moving in tomorrow, and I think Steve will very likely go crazy without cable and internet if it takes any longer. Me… eh. I’ll be too busy cooking to notice! :lol:

Lisa: Snickers bar = smoking gun… too funny! I wouldn’t be so strong… Snickers are my favorite. You’ve been doing so well with exercise… Keep up the good work, chick! I’ll post some pics eventually, probably when we get our internet and computers set up at home.

MsRD: I’m going to use this opportunity to try a bunch of new recipes. The first one I’m going to try is my improvised version of the Lean Cuisine Thai-style chicken I so dearly love. If it turns out worth eating, I’ll post the recipe (though I can’t guarantee it will be healthy). I have a ton of cookbooks, but have rarely had the chance to use them. I hope to start doing so.

Julie: You and I seem to be in the same low part of the cycle right now. I just don’t feel like doing anything healthy, and I know that is not where I need my mind to be. We can break out of it—we have to!

TBJ: I know you’re busy studying, but I hope you’re remembering to take care of yourself physically as well as mentally. :)

Betani: :wave:

OK, so what about me? I’m still sick. I feel sicker today than I did yesterday. Food is still not good, though it’s slightly better than it has been. Water’s ok, but no exercise. I’ll start walking once we officially move. If the weather permits, that is, but I’m not really holding my breath for that.

The good thing is, we’ll have to go to the grocery store this weekend, and I don’t intend to buy unhealthy foods. Steve is on-board with this, so I hope it goes smoothly. We’ve decided that we’re going to have Easter dinner at our house, and I want to find and test some healthy recipes. As I was telling MsRD, I have so many cookbooks, and most of them are healthy, and I really want to try a lot of new recipes. If I’m going to make this diet thing a lifestyle change, I’ve got to learn to cook a little differently. Luckily for me, I love to cook (especially since I have all new cooking stuff), so it will be fun.

It’s supposed to start snowing and be nasty again here tomorrow, so I’m going to try to pack up a bunch of stuff and take it to our house tonight. All week I’ve been kind of hesitant—what if we need something?—but since we’re moving tomorrow, there’s not really much I could need. I’m just feeling a bit overwhelmed right now. We’ve got so much stuff, and so much to do. *sigh* Well, it has to be done eventually. And I guess I’m not really in any hurry… Mom’s not going to throw our stuff our onto the lawn or anything.

OK, I’m going to stop rambling now and get some work done. Have a good one, chicks.
~Elisha

[Betani]

High stress month with little time or motivation for personal computer time.

Trying to come out of bloodlust regarding Vendor from Hell. (Not kidding about this.)

Unable to form proper complete sentences.

Binging problem back in full force.

Only thing I want to do after work is sleep anymore.

I'd love to talk to a counselor of some sort, but don't have the money to do so.

[miss_elisha]

Chickies! Where are you?!?!

Well, I'm still here. The scale is holding steady at 214.4, though I'm not sure how that's possible with the way I've been eating. But I'm not complaining. I'll just sit here eating my bagel slathered with cream cheese and drinking my nice sugary vanilla-caramel latte. :coffee2:

But I know I need to get back to healthier eating. How do I know this? Well, there's logic, of course, but there's something else as well: my skin feels icky. I figured it was because I've been sick and dehydrated, but I'm feeling better now and I've been chugging the water, and it still feels icky. And to top it off, I used my thermal exfoliator this morning, which usually makes my skin feel like silk... still icky. Now if that's not a sure sign I need to behave in a healthier manner, I don't know what is.

So tonight we're officially moving into our house. Steve is supposedly moving more stuff today, and I'm planning to fix dinner there. On the menu: grilled salmon, linguine with bearnaise sauce, spinach, most likely some wine, and hopefully some form of dessert (this will be our Valentine's Day dinner). Yeah, I know, not particularly healthy, but it's still healthier than ordering a pizza, which is very likely the alternative.

Tomorrow will be more moving and and the end of the painting, and probably something not terribly healthy for dinner (burgers or sloppy joes--something easy to fix a lot of). After that... who knows. Lots of stuff to do this weekend.

Sunday, if there's time, I'm hoping to go to a bridal show nearby, and bowling in the evening. I guess we'll see.

Anyway, I'm rambling. I need to get to work. Have a good day, chicks.
~Elisha

[lisa girl]

Betani, I urge you to go and see your doctor, either your OB/GYN or your G.P. Depression is a tough thing to go through-I speak from experience. There are a lot of options for you :)..your doctor can be a terrific source, even if you can't afford therapy. Perhaps some of your area churches offer some type of counseling services? At any rate, don't try to make a go of this alone. (((((Betani))))). Your post brought tears to my eyes..I've been in a similar state, and it is pure hell. Take care chickie, and please let us know how you are doing.

[hikein2005]

just reading and comtemplating! Been a busy week and I'll be gone all weekend! Know I am thinking of you all! Gotta get my butt back on track cause I'm up a pound! Yikes!

Hugs to all!

[Betani]

Okay.

I'm beginning to return to normal. So much junk going on, though. The VFH (Vendor From Hell) has the audacity to accuse me of re-using a purchase order to change the ISBN of a book we've been having problems with. I won't bore you with details, but what they accused me of doing is literally IMPOSSIBLE for me to do in the first place! Our computer system would probably explode if I tried to do what they said I did.

Aside from that, I was very close to losing my job (indirectly, and it's still not out of the question) because of massive incompetence from the county tax assessors office. You may have seen it on TV, as I think it made it to national news. A house downtown got assessed at 400 million dollars by mistake. Yes, million. Yes, 400. It would have been a horrible mistake if it was assessed at $400,000. So, the library system has to pay back $73,000 from what we already got, the budget was already cut by $120,000 and will now be cut again by an additional $180,000. That's not even mentioning the $1.2 million the schools have to pay back, and the $5 million the city has to pay back. Please permit me to scream: HOW THE HELL DID NO ONE CATCH THAT MISTAKE BEFORE THE TAX MONEY WAS PAID OUT?!?!?!?!

*deep breath*

Ok. I'm calmer now.

I'm not excusing my binging, but can you see how I slipped? I've struggled with depression in the past, and still do, but I'm sure that this bout is purely situational.

Ok, I have to end this thing on a positive note. Through all this insanity, I've been able to maintain my library laps each workday at lunch time, and I've even graduated to 20 minutes. So there. :p

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

Well, we’re all moved in. Or at least mostly. Still a few things to move, but nothing drastically important. And we’re officially living in our new house! It’s so exciting! So far I’m doing really well at keeping everything clean and tidy, putting things away when I am done with them, etc. That may not sound like much, but honestly I’m not used to it. I even made my bed this morning, and that *never* happens! I want to stay in the habit though.

Our cable is getting installed tomorrow, so we’ll have high-speed internet at home, finally. And we’re bringing our cats either tonight or tomorrow. And we’re hopefully getting our puppy sometime this week.

Of course, eating hasn’t been great. Not terrible, but not great. And I think my scale may be “broken.” One of the legs got lost, and it doesn’t seem to be calibrating correctly now. *sigh* So I haven’t gotten to weigh. I’m going crazy!

But! I do have that recumbent bike now, and we’re hoping to move my weight machine this weekend, so it’s all good. Plus I’ll have to walk our puppy! We’re in desperate need of a trip to the grocery store, so we’ll have to do that in the next few days. All I want to do right now though, is sleep.

Tonight I have to make a quick run to my parents’ house to pick up some more stuff (can you believe that I actually forgot to bring my makeup?!), then it’s home to make dinner and do laundry and put away more boxes of random stuff. There are not enough hours in the day! But hopefully I will get to bed at a reasonable hour tonight. It will help that I got to work early today, so I can leave a little early.

OK, my mom just called, and I completely lost my train of thought, so I guess I’ll cut this off. Have a good day, chicks!

~Elisha

[hikein2005]

Hi all you chickies!
I feel like I have been MIA for a while. I was gone for the weekend, so no posts then, but really super busy last week's end! CRAZY! :dizzy:

Food this past weekend was NOT good (well, it was good...just too much of it!) and there was NO exercise unless you count loading and reloading and unloading the car a bunch of times with my sister's catering stuff!

Today I'm home with DD (day off) and I have the stomach crud! I was set to go to work thinking my tummy stuff was just "food related" but after spending more time IN the bathroom than out of it...I realized I needed to call work...If I'm feeling better by noon, I will go in then! Blech! :barf:

Did you all check out this new "smiley"?
:dust:
I LOVE that!!! That's for those of us who are lacking some motivation these days!! (Would that be EVERYONE???)

OK chickies.. have a good day!
Hugs,

[MsRD]

Hello all!

Here it is the 20th and I am fighting that dreaded 3rd and 4th week of the month doldrums.....you know, when I eat mindlessly and lose all of the ground I have gained this month. That :dust: might come in handy about now!

Elisha.....it must be wonderful to be in your own house finally! :cloud9: Eventually, everything will find its own place and you can settle down into some kind of routine.

Betani......Take a deep breath, chickie.....let it go. Close your eyes and repeat after me "calm blue ocean calm blue ocean calm blue ocean"

Julie....So sorry you have been sick. There is a lot of miscellaneous crud going around......everything from annoying little colds to the full blown flu. Take care of yourself! :sunny:

Cacmsc......:welcome: We are always glad to see new faces! :smug: You have quite a good exercise routine.....and keeping those calories down to 1500! you will see success in no time!

I did weigh in on Saturday.....and was down another 2 pounds. Really don't know how that is happening, as the eating and exercise have been sporadic at best! I made a doctors appointment for next week for a physical..:o ...haven't had one in a while, so best get it done.

[miss_elisha]

Morning chicks!

Well, what to say today? Nothing different from yesterday. Don’t have my computer set up, so I haven’t been tracking my food intake. No exercise. Water was decent yesterday though, as I was at work and drink water all day. Today will be more of the same, only hopefully my intake will be better. I didn’t get enough sleep last night either, but tonight I am planning not to do much of anything all evening and go to bed early. I’ll put a few things away tonight, but that’s about it. There may be a bubble bath involved.

And Steve is supposed to hook up my computer today. We’re having cable and internet installed today, but I won’t have my computer hooked to the internet for a few more days while we wait for our wireless router we ordered to arrive. But I will have Steve’s computer to use for internet purposes, and my computer to use for everything else, so I can start logging again. Of course, my scale still doesn’t work right, so I can’t weigh. *sigh* I don’t know what I’m going to do about that. I can’t really afford to buy a new scale at the moment.

We had a little disappointment yesterday. Steve and I decided long ago that when we got our house we would get a puppy. A few weeks ago we found an adorable cocker spaniel mix puppy. I email the lady that had her a number of times, and told her about our situation and said that we would prefer to be moved in before we took the puppy. She said that was fine and that she would keep her for us and that there was no rush. Yesterday I emailed her to make arrangements and I get a reply saying that she’s already given her away. Apparently she had some health problems and couldn’t take care of her, but I had told her that if she needed us to take the puppy sooner we could. Instead of letting us know so we could work something out, she just gives her away and doesn’t even tell us.
*shakes her head*
But, we will find another puppy. Somewhere out there is a puppy just waiting to come and live with us. It’s just like the situation with the house: the one that is supposed to work out, will work out.

I’m such a fatalist. Everything happens for a reason.

It just occurred to me that whenever I say “everything happens for a reason,” Steve looks at me like I’m an idiot and thinks it’s the dumbest theory he’s ever heard. But when I say “the one that is supposed to work out, will work out,” he smiles and nods and agrees.
*rol