Chicks up for a Challenge - Weight Loss Buddies III

I saw we were at 500 posts when I logged in this morning, so I made this one. Hope everyone got there PM. I will post more later.

Lindy-I watched level 3 a couple of days ago and decided to give it a try last night. Not sure if I will do it again today or stick with level 2 for a while. Yes I will do 30ds for the next 10 days. I am going to take it with me too. Not sure that I will do it everyday while gone, but I am going to try my hardest. Glad the scale is back down for you. I have glucosamine to take too, but if it made you gain, I dont want to take it. I have it for my knees, they are so bad(hereditary)

Dance-have fun walking your friends dog. I try to walk mine everyday. They love it

AJ-we all slip, just get back to what you know is right for you and you will still see a loss on Sunday.

I slept until 11 today, ahhh!! I want to get a bike ride in but it is pretty hot out right now. May wait until this afternoon when it cools off a little. So I guess that leaves me with housework. I will check in later ladies, Have a great day.

Neesy- I am so sorry for every thing that is going on for you right now. I have had a 15 hour a day job and it laft me with nothing outside of it. Litterally! I am sorry about your hubby. At least you are hearing from him. My twin brothers, during boot, wrote me twice and I thought I was going to die! It was by far the hardest time in my life home alone while they were there. I can't imagine my hubby. SO SORRY!

Burgundy- I am so impressed with how fast you kicked your butt back on to the plan! I need a little bit of you with me right now. And thanks for making the new thread!

Lindy- I am glad that you feel optimistic again. Your hard will really will pay off. And didn't know that either and its good to know!

So you have talked me into 30ds! I am going to get it today.

*I on the other hand have fallen off the wagon for TWO days. =( More than that really if you consider all of my cereal this weekend. I am so mad at myself. Yesterday I told myself it was a new day... I gained a pound so I fell apart. I am really going to try today. Extra water and no starch today to try to flush the crud out of me. I have been fairly stable for 4 weeks and week 5 has just been disaterous! Wish me luck. I am starting my day now!

AJ - you were killing it last week - don't beat yourself up for taking it a little easier this week. This is a long term thing, an endurance race not a sprint, right?

Burgundy - thanks for organizing us!

I'm off to lunch with some friends at a favorite mexican place - I WILL NOT eat the chips and salsa. I'm telling you guys to make myself stick to it : )

Thanks Burgund for the email. I would have been lost!

Thanks for all the well wishes with my headache! Yesterday the migrane or sinus headache did get the best of me. I had had it since the night before. Amazingly the swim helped it alot for a couple of hours it eased up, but after that all **** broke lose. The headache was back and I ate. I had spaghetti, garlic bread and another slice of carrot cake. Ugh. I actually felt sick. I did weigh this morning and didn't gain. It is possible it may show up tomorrow, otherwise the fact that I swam laps yesterday (trying to ease up the headache higher metabolism and blood flow) or the fact I pigged out before 7pm and didn't eat anything else. Who knows, but I am praying tomorrow the scale says the same thing!!! LOL.......

Now today it is still hear - just like a nosey neighbor! It is so annoying, because it is majorly messing me up with my morning walk/jog. I can't go out the heat and workout because it will make it worse. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr. So I am watching my eating, and decided I'll just do another swim this afternoon.

AJ - Glad your back and don't beat yourself up. A change back to healthy eating and some workouts and that lb will be gone, along with more!

Burgund - It sounds like your in for a relaxing day - good for you! For pain, if you want something natural that also helps pain the Acai Berry does. Not the sugary drinks and crap they have in the store - that is all watered down. There is one I use to take, it isn't as strong as my Zoe, but it did help me, it call Treasure Chest and its in the Health Food Stores. Just a thought, as it is also good for red blood cells, energy, pain and all kinds of stuff.

Lindy - May your focused! I need to do something about that! LOL........I am happy for you dropping lbs and feeling better, but hey, it's OK to slow down a bit! LOL........I mean, you know.....I wouldn't want you to feel bad about winning this contest or anything......;-)

AJ- oh girly...you will rebound from your "slip ups", starting over...thats all you can do. It has happened to the best of us,me - more times than I can count. On days that you binge, try to incorporate some extra exercise that day to counter balance the binge, ya know? Anyway...good luck with the rest of the week, I really hope you see 1 lb. down - common, you got this in the bag! lol

Mygrits - ugh, still? That stinks. I woke up with some serious allergies, I brought an extra towel with me to the gym just for blowing my nose. My eyes wouldnt stop watering too, its was horrible. But by 11 a.m., I was as good as gold. Anyway...whats the matter Sandy...you scurred? LOL! Im really just uping the exercise for the possiblity of going to the wedding. Although I must admit, I have not watched tv in 2 weeks and am really loving how I feel these days. I just have so much energy, its amazing.

Dance - so, I have to know - did you steer clear of the chips? If they had fresh guacamole I would be in trouble. God, I LOVE that stuff. Its actually not that bad for you but in large quantities, uh -yeah...thats calorie ****.

I had a good lunch, homemade chicken soup. I actually indulged in carbs too...half a cup of oodles and half a peeled potato (that was cooked in the soup). It was good, not too bad on calories and very filling. I am having lunch with a friend tomorrow and we are doing...duh.duh..duh..duhhhhhh(scary noise) - SUSHI! Ahhhh...control, I need to control my portions and I will be ok. Hopefully, lol.

Lindy - no chips, not even one! If I hadn't said something about it here on the thread, I'm sure I would have been snacking with everyone else. Agree with you on the tv thing - I barely watch at all anymore - it's so much better for our plans to be up and moving around or konked out, unable to snack : )

Am on track for a 1200 day (to offset yesterday) if I can just stick to my plan for dinner (shredded chicken breast in a tomato/onion/garlic/cayenne pepper sauce, called tinga de pollo in mexico, which I have in the freezer, brown rice, sauteed spinach and strawberries). BTW, tinga de pollo is actually super diet friendly for those that cook - google for lots of recipes. I don't add the chipotle to mine as that's not how my friend taught me but it's probably good that way too.

What's everyone else's plan for the rest of the day? I still need to fit in my workout when I get home which I'm not so great at.

Thanks Burgandy for the messsage! I have been looking forward to coming on here all day. I made it up to workout this morning, didn't get much more than an hour in because I had an early meeting but I did get up. I have to admit, I argued with myself a lot but it happened. I finally said my arse ain't gonna get skinny by laying here in bed complaining!

AJ - I hear you about the slipup - sometimes if I allow myself a slip I fall off the wagon for days for some reason and can't get back on - I am trying to limit the slips to almost nothing until I can better control myself. But the main point is to get back on the wagon, whip those horses (well not whip but gently tug on their hair) and sit up proud - look how far you've come already.

I think I missed some posts in the last thread, will go back and read em! Be back later to catch up with those I missed!

For today I have a late work night, until at least 9 - then spin class tomorrow morning - ah callouses on my arse are coming!!! I'm told that you shouldn't eat Tuna everyday - is that true??

I got up after sleeping in, ate a fiber one bar and got my workout in first thing. That is amazing for me, usually I wait until about now to workout. So now I can get my cleaning done and work in the yard. Still want to ride my bike and walk the dogs.

Dance-Mexican food is my downfall. I would not have been as strong as you and would have indulged in the chips and salsa, yum yum. I will have to look up the Tinga de pollo.

Sandy-that damn headache, wish it would go away for you. Maybe the swim will help again. I may try the acai berry. Thanks

Lindy-lunch sounded good. I had a chicken wrap with pico de gallo and taco sauce and a tiny bit of sour cream. It was good. Be good tomorrow when you have sushi, or wait, go ahead and eat whatever you want, lol.

Staccie-thats a long day at work, but at least you got your workout in already and wont have to worry about that. There is mercury in fish, so I dont think it would be good to eat tuna everyday, you need to switch up what you eat so your body gets all the nutrients it needs from different foods.

Off to do the dishes, they arent going to do themselves, although that would be awesome. I will check in later:)

Burgundy - lol, your funny! Ha....it looks like my plans back fired, my friend couldnt get a babysitter so no sushi for me. This is a good thing for sure.

Stacie - ok, I forgot to mention this but after day 2 of spinning...yeah...I got calysis on my arse (lol).

Dance - Im doing baked chicken with frozen veggies, I think Im going to throw some mango salsa in it to mix it up. Its left overs.

Dancer- That sounds amazing! I love spicy.

Lindy- I had a pineapple, cucumber, lime and cilantro salsa last night and it made all the difference in the world! I love summer fruits. ANDddddd I want your recipe for the soup! MMmmmmm.

Burgundy- So are you coming to my house next?? j/k. I am glad you are so on track today.

Staccie- Thanks for the support. Yeah I really fell off this time. Apparently into a 12 portion bowl of cereal and candy. lol. I went to the store. Bought more of what I love and I am doing much MUCH better today.

I am going to our house in the mountains for a few nights. I will try to get on at night or in the AM from my phone. (NO REAL INTERNET!! :eek: ) I am prepairing a bunch of food at home and lugging it up with me so while every one else is riding the gondola for fondue... I can eat my good stuff. Okay Good luck the next two days every one!

<3

Hey giiiirls! I am back and married! I missed sooooo many posts, but I just got done reading ALL of them. First off, congrats to EVERYONE on huge losses last week (and yes I am counting you too Lindy, cause we all know you had to lose something and the scale just isn't reflecting it). I, however, while you guys were working super hard, was stuffing my face on my honeymoon. LOL. I didn't start eating until Saturday night though (had to fit into my dress!!!) So I only pigged out for 3 days. Got on the scale this morning and I was up to 295.6, but ate SUPER well today and drank tons of water and feel like I got most of the junk out already. Weighed when I got home from work just cause I was curious and was already down to 294.4.

Don and I (or should I say my husband (!!!!) and I - still feels pretty weird) are going to leave for the gym in a few minutes for the first time in over a month. Eeeek! Like I have been saying all along, I have been busy. But now the wedding is over, and I have to get back to work (and catch up to you guys!)

There is no way I can comment on everything that has happened in the last week, so I won't even try.

Someone asked everyone's ages...I am 24.

Someone else was adding up total weight loss for our group...I am at 56 lbs with my weight this afternoon, so add me to the total!!!

I am going to try my best to post once a day from now on. You guys are so motivating that I will definitely keep on track with exercise if I read how awesome you guys are doing with exercise then hopefully it will keep me on track. That is my week link right now. I have a super easy time with the food, but I just cant get my butt to the gym since we moved to the new house! It's now 11 miles away, as opposed to like 5 before. But, it's pretty much the closest gym to our new house since we live in the boondocks.

I am going to get the wedding and honeymoon pics up on facebook soon, so everyone who is friends with me on there can see them that way. If you aren't friends with me and want to see them...my name is Tiffany Smart in Naples, FL.

Oh and Lindy! You were right down the road from me!!! I actually was born and raised in Fort Myers and only moved down to Naples a couple years ago when I got my current job. 40 mins was just too long of a commute!!!

Talk to everyone soon!

Tiff - Uh, excuse me, Mrs. Smart! :dance: :hat: CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :celebrate: WOOO HOOOO! :cheers: YOU ARE MARRIED! :hug:

I am so glad everything went well, and you are home safe! So, your an 'ol married lady' huh? LOL..........I am looking forward to your pictures, so hurry it up girlie!

Lindy, Thankyou for mentioning the Mango - Peach Salsa, it is to die for! I baked some chicken in it - delicious!! Yummmy.

I tell you one of my major weaknesses, (I have many) is mexican food, with the refried beans, salsa, sour cream, guacamola and lots of cheese - very dangerous!

Well, heachache is less, but still there - yes, go figure. I did go to the pool, but only got a few laps in, because a storm was coming. So, no real workout today. Tomorrow, headache or not I am going out to workout. I have got to get back into my routine, or I won't lose squat this week.

Check in later!

CONGRATULATION TIFF!!! Woo-hoo, I cant wait for you to share your pics. And thanks for your encouragement about my scale snafu...hoepfully Ill see bigger numbers this week on weigh in Sunday. I feel a whole lot less bloated.

Mygrits - yeah...Im so glad you tried it. It makes such a difference on the taste of plain grilled chicken and the calories are hardly there. 20 calories for 2 tblespoons...not bad at all.

Ok...going to do 30DS and go to bed. Im really tired today.

Awwwe!! Tiff. I am so excited for you. The first 6 months are the hardest in the beginning. Its def an adjustment but fun being newlyweds!! Isn't it weird saying husband?? I still think its weird sometimes.

Congratulations Tiff - I bet you looked gorgeous - and it will be nice to have you on here daily too - your posts are always amazing :)

Sandy - sorry about the headache, I avoided it today and I am glad but I find them hard to deal with sometimes!

Now if I could just stay awake for a few more hours to get work done...but I'm peetering out really bad now. But I am going to continue to work out as a priority, I can already tell I am starting to feel a bit better again. I have decided to not spin until next week. Sometimes I try to do too much at once and then I get tired and burn out - so work my way up to that next week. I think that's why I fall off the wagon a lot is because I push myself too hard. Moderation is not a word that I abide by in my life but I am thinking that going a bit slower at first will help keep me motivated.

I hope you all have a great night! I am away for most of the day tomorrow so logging on will be tough but I definitely will tomorrow night!!!

Holy cow!! I'm gone for a day or two and the board blows up! Well, let's get started:

AJ: don't worry about a few days of being off the wagon. Everyone has slips ups from time to time. Just see what triggered the slip ups and it can help you to avoid them in the future.

Tiff: Congrats married lady! Glad everything went well. We know you'll get back on track, you were a driving force early on in the thread, so I know you will be again. You'll get into a new routine and be as good as gold.

Sandy: Sorry about the headaches...did you go to a doc or something to see what's causing them? I get them every once in awhile, more constant when under stress. The worst are migraines, so hopefully your headaches don't turn into that. I know it's hard to stay motivated when you're not feeling well.

Dance: Good job not eating the chips and salsa!! They are really a downfall of mine as well. A friend at work made this WW low-fat mexican dip with baked Tostitos to dip...I need to get that recipe and share, it was awesome.

Burgundy: Way to go on level 3 of 30DS! I still have yet to go back to it, but if you and LIndy both see great results, I may have to dust it off and try again. I'm still hooked on the gym though...guess I'm not a "DVD person." Which, I probably shoulda guess from the other 100's of dollars I've spent on all the other DVD's gathering dust! LOL

Staccie: great job on the workout. Hey, and hour is still better than nothing! When I do weights, it is usually an hour and a half, cardio is about an hour. Way to go and find some "me time." :)

As for me, I'm still out of commission from my back. It's beginning to feel better, but the meds I'm on make me so dizzy and tired. I'm going to try and do a light workout on Saturday, see how it goes. I don't want to hurt myself, so I'll take it easy. My trainer, who is leaving me :( is going to suggest a new trainer, so I'll be getting back into that soon. SO YOU GUYS BETTER WATCH YOURSELVES! LOL Since hurting my back, I've begun to realize that I'm getting into the routine of working out, and feeling good after my workouts. Since I've been out since Saturday, I feel so lazy, but I can't do anything about it!

Question: when you guys take a day/days off from working out, do you find that you are hungrier on those days? I have been ravenous the past few days and the only thing I've changed is no exercise. Still doing well eating-wise. Breakfast: Sweet and salty bar, snack: grapes, lunch: Lean Cuisine and side salad, snack: banana. Dinner grilled chix breast with green beans. Not too shabby.

Be back tomorrow!

Tiff-I'm so glad you're back. I missed you! Congratulations! I can't wait to see the photos!


Thanks for all the encouragment girls. You always make me feel better=)
I will catch up more tomorrow. I'm exhausted and going to bed. I'm off tomorrow. YES!!!! Goodnight!

Ack...my computer is down for a couple of days and I miss a gazillion posts!

Tiff- Welcome back and congrats on becoming a wifey!!!

MaddiesMom- ouch-- sorry to hear about your back, hopefully this rest time will do you well.


I'm going to try logging in daily and catch up from here ladies. I've been doing pretty well the last couple of days with exercise and food..although- ack, tonight I didn't have dinner until 9:00 and ate a wheat bagel...not incredibly healthy, but just wanted something quick. However, I did resist having anything from McD's when my daughter had an earlier dinner-- and said no to the DQ after soccer tonight..whoo whoo-- all of your encouragement works so great -- thank you ladies!

Maddiesmom - I just saw your note, and yeah busy board. I keep logging in to make sure I don't fall too far behind! LOL.......Anyway, I have always been prone to headaches, most are from hormone imbalance and the all famous sinus headaches. I have had them more frequently the last 5 or so years due to premenopause........fun getting old! Anyway, Tom came a few days ago, so I think this is due to that. I try aspirin and if nothing miraculous happens, I just try to do different things to help it ease up. It sucks, but nobody said menopause would be fun! LOL..........

Sorry about your back, and YES, I eat more on days I don't workout. I think it's due to the working out speeding up my metabolism which burns fat and makes me not as hungry. Due take it easy on Saturday with the trainer, so more injury doesn't occur.

Hope tomorrow is good!

Well girls, day 1 on plan went perfect! I ate REALLY well, kept in my calories, and went to the gym. I did 20 mins on the elliptical and then 20 on the treadmill. It actually didn't feel like I had ever stopped working out. Like I just picked it back up like I had just worked out yesterday.

I want to say something to Dance and Lindy, that I have been meaning to say for a while. Not to exclude anyone, but more to point out something exemplary in you two. You both have an amazing gift with words that I envy. See, I am a numbers person and not good with words. You two, I have always noticed, always know exactly what to say and seem to always have the most insightful advice. Like when anyone is having a problem or things just aren't going as plan, your advice and words just amaze me. You come up with these ideas that would never even think of! Anyways, just wanted to say that. Each of us bring something to this thread, and I think I noticed this about you two because it is a skill that I completely lack. I am not a good advice person. I am more of a listener. Alot of times, when people come to me with their problems, I can listen and ask questions that may lead them towards the solution, but I never have good advice. That is just a weakness I guess.

2nd thing: Lindy and I think Burgandy...you two impress me beyond belief with how long you have consistently done the 30DS. The DVD killed me and I think I am actually terrified to try it again. I failed miserably at it! LOL. So you guys amaze me...lol.

Staccie: GO TO LONDON!!! That would be soooooo awesome to live abroad. I would love to one day. The only thing I don't know about is my pets. I don't know how I could leave them!

AJ: I am not sure if I have ever said welcome in my sporadic visits, but if not, WELCOME! I'm so glad you are part of our group now! 5 lbs lost in one week is AWESOME at your weight!

MaddiesMom: I'm glad your back is feeling a bit better. I am no stranger to back pain. I have pulled my back in some pretty weird ways, including painting, 1 yoga class, and just last week by wearing heels and walking too much in them. Weak backs run in my family, so I think I am pretty much destined for it.

Mygrits, Neesy, and everyone else...thank you for the congrats!

Oh and one last thing since this post is getting pretty long, I am soooo jealous of ya'lls food portion of your diets. I just cannot seem to get into a plan to cook and have these well balanced meals. I tend to rely on the processed foods like granola bars, whole grain waffles, lean cuisines and some fruit. Any tips to help me learn how to get my butt in the kitchen and cook?

I still want lindy's nummy soup recipe!!! Jes.owens2@gmail.com

Tiff- thank you for the welcome. I feel like I know you after reading everything.

Basics- great job with the fast food! The whole time to stop eating thing is hard for me too. Not enough hours in the day to get it all in by early.

Goodnight from the rocky mountains. Maybe I will post a pretty pic tomorrow.

Morning girls!

Wow..you sure are busy when Im in bed sleeping, lol. Yesterday was a beyond excellent day. I need to be careful how low I go in calories though. I used to be excited if I hit a 1200 calorie day but with the level of exercise that I am doing, according to my heart monitor, in exercise alone...I am burning about 600 calories a day, thats not even at rest! Soooo....I should not fall under 1800. Wow...after much research, this whole weigh tloss thing is actually starting to make sense. Moving on....


Maddiesmom - You have to be sooooo careful when you work out with the trainer on Saturday. I mean, I imagine that once you tell them (if you havent already), they wil do a light weight routine for you, but Ill touch on the thought again...does your gym do water aerobics? I know at my gym, nothing but "older" people do it, lol...but its so much fun and really is beneficial. Nonetheless....I really hope you start feeling better. I can totally relate on craving the exercise. Hmmmm...as far as feeling extra hungry on non-gym days...yes, I actually tend to agree with that comment. My rest days are usually Sunday and man oh man do I indulge, lol. I warn everyone, so not put your hands even close to my mouth on Sunday's lol.

Neesy - how you holding up girly? Getting a little bit better? Hows the diet and exercise routine going now that your back to your long work days? You KNOW Im here to hold you accountable, right? lol - common girl...we have to make you smokin hot for your hubbys return.

Back2Basics - woo-freakin-who, yes...I said freakin...lol, because you made it to McDonalds and DQ qithout anything for yourself. WOW!!! This is big. As a fellow mommy of young one, I know this is hard. I have self control to drive past Burger King and say no, but its hard when your actually in line and then ITS IN YOUR CAR!!! Ahhhhh! So, BIG hats off to you. <clapping and whistles> lol

Mygrits - feeling any better these days? Did you get your swim in yesterday? There was a TERRIBLE storm all night last night, so Gab and I really didnt have any outdoor time.

Tiff- WOW, what a compliment. THank you so much, that is very....very kind of you and it completely made my day. You are soooo right, everyone in the forum contributes to making this a great group, including you. When I was in a funk a few months back you were my steam engine to keep pushing and I dont think you have any clue how appreciative I was of that...so, Ill say it now...THANK YOU! :hug: I swear, we are not that far from each other. You, me and Mygrits need to work out a day for lunch and shopping, maybe set a goal and once we are all there...set up a date? Thoughts? It would be so much fun! Oh...and dont let my cooking fool you. I am no master chef, I just pick ridiculously easy meals. Ie: tilapia and mango salsa...I buy the premade salsa from Publix, throw 2 tablesspoons on top of a tilapia filet and bake it in the over for 30 minutes. Thats it! Soooo easy. One thing I hate making that is so simple is salads, it just seems like too much "prep work". If my mom heard me saying this, she would be on the floor laughing (and probably crying)..."what Nicole, salads are hard to make, you have to be kidding me"....lol....yeah, we'll keep that one to ourselves.

AJ - I totally forgot, you had requested that from me before. Which soup recipe was it? I have a couple of healthy ones. My favorite is with Kale, Beans and Spicy Turkey Sausage...is that it? I babble so much, I cant remember what I say anymore, lol.

Ok...so, I get to pass on the sushi today, which is a good thing because I feel kinda bloated today, for some reason, so soy sauce and wasabi is probably not the best idea. Ill have a salad with cheese and chicken and some extra virgin olive oil....mmmmmm...salivating....is it 1130 yet?

WOAH NELLY! I got ahead of myself in posting a novel, sorry girls...Ill try to keep my "author" persona at a minimum, this is my worst one yet. lol

Morning, girls! Wow - lots to catch up on...

Tiff - Major congrats on your wedding! So fun to share it with you vicariously and can't wait to see how gorgeous you looked in your dress. You're such a sweetie for your comments - and you're awfully eloquent for someone who supposedly isn't a words person : ) This is such a great group and we all bring a unique perspective. Really glad I found you guys! So glad you're back with us and committed to your plan. Naples is beautiful - went there for work for the first time last year. Since the gym is so far away, are there some nearby things you could do on non-gym days when it isn't too hot to save yourself the drive time? Brisk walk around the neighborhood/on the beach? Bellydance or any kind of exercise videos at home? On the cooking front, hmmm... Maybe start slow by taking a chunk of time on, say, Sunday afternoon to make a big pot of turkey vegetable chili, freeze some of it in ziploc bags for future meals and then have it a few times during the week in different ways (over brown rice, in a wholegrain tortilla as a burrito, over lettuce as a taco salad). What do you think?

Staccie - hang in there! I hear you on the moderation issue - it's tricky trying to understand why we are drawn to one extreme or the other.

Maddiesmom - I echo Lindy's concern about hitting the gym with a trainer so soon after your injury. And absolutely - I think exercise is a major appetite suppressant for me - I get the munchies much more on days when I don't workout.

Back2basics- way to show restraint!

Neesy - what are you doing with your day off?

mygrits - hope you're finally feeling better!

lindy - congrats on having such a good day - you rock, girl!

Gotta head off to run before it gets too hot - will check back in later. Hugs all around!

God help me today...somewhere between my morning post and now...I have been taken over by "hungry". I am STARVING!!! I gave into a cup of plain raisin bran and am still dying here. I am planning on eating a trough (sp?) of lettuce and chicken for lunch. It may be more than Im used to, but at least Im less likely to binge. Ok, so Im as 2.5 weeks of this strict, low carb, no-to low sugar diet and this is definately an obstacle day, minus the pizza snafu on Sunday after my horribly depressing weigh in. I am already at 9 glasses of water today and its only 11 a.m., this is not a bad thing but it cna give you a clear indication that all the water in the world isnt going to help with this one. **sigh** - I CAN DO THIS, I WILL DO THIS! I am Shera, hear me roar...lol. Sorry, just had to go off on a tangent. Common 1130...get here already so I can vacuum up my lunch, lol.

Hang in there, Lindy!

Am totally beat from my first run using intervals of higher speeds and I'm whupped(sp?)!

Dance - thanks for the words of encouragement. I think it has passed, thank god. I did have a HUGE lunch, but a very healthy one. I had a big..big...bowl of field greens salad with a little feta cheese, 8 oz. of boneless, skinless chicken breast and topped with extra virgin olive oil. It was BIG but well worth it, especially bc of my fair of binge eating being so hungry. So...the hunger is done. For a snack, I grabbed some more field greens salad, added some cherry tomatoes and a side of extra virgin oilve oil. I also have some raw sugar snap peas. For dinner...shrimp with black beans and squash...maybe some salsa.

Dance-I'm just going to relax today. Nothing big. I wanted to go get some new clothes.. but that would just be pointless. I'll just wait until I get 20 more pounds off. ..

Lindy-I'm hanging in there. My diet plan is going really good. I will go to they gym later tonight. I have been eating really well. I am noticing a difference already. It feels good. I have been walking a lot more lately too because it's up to me to take my dogs out. I was spoiled before. haha I am so going to look HOT at graduation. I can't wait. I'm focused!

Wow, busy place today! Hope everyone is doing great so far! I'm hanging in there pretty good - I managed to get home by 9PM and in bed by 1030 and up for a good workout, I feel great today even though I see loonnngg days ahead. What a difference it makes! I do have a few animal crackers that I am snacking on right now but considering the stress I'm under that's pretty damn good!

Vicky: Best of luck on the back situation! It's so true that once you get into a routine of working out its a real drag for your body to get none. And yes, I get very hungry and munchy on my days off from the gym. I think my mind thinks oh no workout means eat bad - so I am trying to do a little exercise on my off days but not excessive - until I train myself a little better! I found that if I eat something crunchy (carrots, celery, microwave popcorn etc) it helps for some odd reason (maybe replacing chips?)

Tiff: I am jealous too, I eat so boring all the time!!!

Lindy - you can do it - and you are doing great and are a major source of inspiration!

Dance - you are rocking the intervals I bet - GREAT TRAINING! I did it before and had amazing results!

I will try and log in later...I'm here at work until late again and people keep stopping by and wondering what I am doing - probably thinking I am online trying to find a bf or something!

Hi Ladies,

I am delayed coming on here, due to stress, stress and stress. I will work through it, but it has been tough for many, many months........no make that a year and a half.......no make that 8 years, because we financially supported his father and all his debts. Its been tough for a lonnngg time, but not this bad. In 2008 we lost everything, including my father-in-law, 2 businesses, a house (father-in-laws), and more. It just really sucked. We did rebound slightly in the beginning of this year, and have been blessed with our home business, as it does help, but it doesn't pay all our bills, or replace our losses the last year and half. My husband has been looking for work for 4 months, with nothing to show for it. It is hard to compete in a bad economy, where even in our small town of Deland one little business gets 600 applications!!!! Plus he is over qualified for almost everything. He was a Navy Seal, then Business Owner for 20 years.......so it is slim pickens. I have looked too, however in Deland they aren't many offices, and the few hiring are for Medical Degree positions. I worked mostly in law and insurance for years. Anyway, at my age I am not 'thrilled' at the idea of office work - kindof burned out on it. I really would love to work in something more creative, but there's none of that either. Anyway financial stress has been smothering us for many months, but it really is at a critical stage now and to boot...............

my daughter let us know she is getting married 9/7/09 - yes in a few weeks. It isn't a total shock, but is. I know, doesn't make sense....lol. They have dated for almost 2 years, but broke up a few times during that......as early as a couple of months back. They do well together, but then don't. Anyway, this is what she wants to do, so I will support her. She is such an awesome gal and knows the financial stress we have been under, and said she is doing something simple and they will pay for it. This is so wonderful of her, but really makes me feel bad, because I want to give her a beautiful wedding, like we did her brother. She said in a year we can do another wedding, but it won't be the same. It just all sucks...

I have rambled enough......sorry. I should have spilled, but I think I have held it in for so long, I just needed to vent again. Lucky you's! Needless to say I didn't work out, but I haven't pigged out either, as my stomach has been upset all day........go figure. I am proud of all of you though - and Lindy, you are really focused! You can have those Cheetos now! LOL....

I just uploaded pictures to my computer from our various memory cards and I have a picture for you girls in my wedding dress...ready? Here it iiiiiis!

Sandy: So sorry for the trouble you are going through. I know that my mom has been out of work for quite a long time, hit bankruptcy, lost a car to repo, etc. etc. Then I was laid off, and in the same week I got a job, my husband was laid off. He hasn't found a job yet either, the severence has run out, and I'm nervous about our savings. We have some, but I don't want to use it. Just know that things will get better...keep looking. I know the office may not be ideal (I'm not a fan either) but maybe until the economy gets better you can find something you can tolerate. Just know, I'm there with you and don't feel bad about venting, that's what we're here for! Good luck to your daughter that's getting married (is this the one that's in the military?)

Tiff: BEAUTIFUL! Love the dress. Can't wait to see more pics!

Lindy: How did you do with your cravings?

As for me, went to WW today and was amazed that they said I was down 2 pounds considering I havne't worked out in almost a week and I feel like fat 'ol Bessie from eating so much over the past week. Guess it did jump start the metabolism after all.

Thank you for the workout concern. I am not working out with my trainer until 8/24, but thought I would try the gym on Saturday as far as working out my arms, etc. Don't want to move too fast. Lindy, no water aerobics are offered at the gym...the pool at my gym looks more like the grotto from the Playboy mansion (literally).

Have a great night!

Sandy, I am sooooo sorry for your financial stress you are going through. I am actually at the first time in my life where I am actually financially comfortable. From the time I was 18 til very recently, I was flat broke, living off credit cards, working very part time because I had to go to school. My parents expected me to go and get a degree but couldn't help. Money was a constant source of stress, ESPECIALLY around the time when each semester's tuition was due. I know that 5 years of being a poor college student doesn't really compare to all that you have lost and are currently up against, but I just wanted to let you know in some small way I can relate. I just really really really really hope and pray that things turn around for you. You seem like an amazing selfless person and it is time for good things to come back your direction.

Staccie...awesome job on making YOU time :)

Lindy...that salad sounded SOOOOOOO good. Now about your boneless skinless chicken....do you cook that yourself and if so, how? If not, what brand do you buy?

I did awesome again today on my diet plan, stayed under my calories, however I didn't make it to the gym because my Mom needed me to do work for her.

Also, one question for you guys. When I ran last night the first time on the treadmill, I got these HORRIBLE cramps in my calfs like right behind my knees and down the back of my calfs. I was able to bring the speed back down and walk them out, but now today it is REALLY sore in that area. I have just really been getting weird cramps in my legs and feet lately. I wonder what it is about. Anyone have an experience like this before?

Tiff - you look SOOO gorgeous in your dress! Love the hair, the sash, the flattering cut of the top, the great pickups in the skirt - the whole package! On the leg cramps, I've heard lack of potassium can cause cramping so maybe add a banana to your breakfast cereal to bring your potassium back up.

Maddiesmom - wooohoooo on the loss - good for you! That's super hard to do when you're mobility restricted. Can you start going on walks again or do they want you to wait?

mygrits - big giant hug! So sorry you're in such a tough spot and have been for so long. Stress is so draining - I don't think we even know yet the full extent of the effect of long term stress on our bodies and minds. Don't worry too much about the wedding stuff - when your ship comes in and everything's better, you can throw them a big party for their "x"th anniversary to make up for it if it makes you feel better. And the job stuff sounds tough - hope you can find something that works for you. Hang in there, sweetie! We're here for you so come vent anytime - I feel bad knowing you've been keeping all of that to yourself for so long when we're moaning and groaning about our little worries. It will get better and things will turn around, I promise. They always do!

Aj-didnt get all my housework done, went to the beach instead and ran and ran and ran with the dogs. A picture of the beautiful mountains would be nice, I am from Alabama, now living in Michigan and I miss the mountains.

Tiff-sounds like you are right back on track. Cant wait to see your pictures. Thanks for the encouraging words, thats what keeps me going with the 30ds. YOU LOOK BEAUTIFUL, your dress is amazing.

Staccie-definitely dont try to do too much, I know if I do, thats when I start to want to quit. Go at your own pace and build up from there.

Maddiesmom-If I didnt have my dvd, I dont think I would do much else. It keeps me on my toes. Hopefully you back feels better soon so you dont have to take the pills that make you dizzy much longer. Down 2 lbs, I need to do what you have done.

Basics-good job resisting the fast food. My husband wanted to eat out tonight but I had to say no.

Lindy-glad your lunch satisfied you yesterday and you didnt splurge. You drink so much water, I would have to live in the bathroom if I drank that much.

Neesy-woohoo on being focused!!!!

Mygrits-I think you found the origin of your headache, that is a lot to take in. Congrats to your daughter. Everything will fall into place. I had a small, intimate wedding in my moms front yard and wouldnt have had it any other way. Good luck job hunting. There is nothing here either, unless you want to work at Kmart and I did that for 5 years, not doing it again. Vent anytime, we are here for you:hug:

Today was a good day. Went to the beach again this morning. Swam for a while and had fun with my niece and nephews. Came home and just relaxed. Got my workout in tonight. I had tons of fresh veggies from the farmers market so I made stir fry tonight, it was yummy. It was cabbage(of course), onions, green bell and banana peppers, tomato, pineapple, chicken, zucchini, and lite soy sauce. Cooked in the wok about 15-20 minutes in a little water. Now I have plenty of leftover for lunch tomorrow. My trip is getting so close, I am so excited. Only a week now. Oh, I put on a dress this morning that used to lood awful on me and I was pleasantly surprised when it looked pretty good. Not yet where I want to be but getting there a little more everyday. :carrot:

Goodnight ladies, have a happy Friday tomorrow.

Dance, Tiff, Maddie and Burgund - You all are the best, and Lindy, Neesy, AJ & Backtobasics too, because I know they would also have such supportive, kind words had they been logged in. I read your three posts and just started to cry. I guess it's a cry I needed, as we women try to keep things inside and be positive for the husband and kids. It was so heartwarming just to be able to read your words and know someone listened (even if written) and was supportive. It really sucks, I won't lie, but what can one do under these economic times? I remember prior to this, living in Orlando, and I had employers fighting over me to hire! Two law firms upping the salary to get me to accept their offer - gosh those were the days. Now we can't beg to get hired, but of course living in a small town doesn't help. Maddiesmom I would take an office job, just to get some money coming in, but Deland doesn't haven't alot of offices. Remember The Andy Griffith Show? Thats Deland. LOL......yes quaint, but not alot to offer. We do have neighboring towns, but then we have 20 to 30 minute drive and with one vehicle we are trying to stay close, so we can share commutes (and gas $). We had two vehicles and got rid of mine last year. I don't know, it will work out is all I keep telling myself. Maddiesmom, I understand the savings and not wanting to touch it. Ours is now gone and that is not a great place to be. Very scary to know there is no backup anymore. All of this is quite humbling, as I can remember as a single-mom living like this and it was normal.....lol. Then when Bubba and I married 6 years ago, money was not an issue, which was such a change. He did very well with his water business. Now look at us, and actually many of our friends who were very well off have lost everything. Anyway, enough of that. Thank you again for letting me let go. Hearing about Alina's plans to marry just put me over the edge with all of this, because I can't help the way a Mom always plans to with her daughters wedding. Oh, and yes, she is the one in the military.

Today I didn't work out, but am going to go out early in the morning and get it done! My food was good today, around 1300 - 1400 calories.

Thank you again - you all are just awesome.

Grits-I'm so sorry you are having a hard time. Money has always been a big stress factor for us. The main reason my husband joined the army was because he has been unemployed for several months, unable to find a job. It's crazy what you have to resort to nowadays to find steady employment. I really feel for you. I know how hard it is to live paycheck to paycheck and feel that burden constantly when you're doing all that you possibly can just to get by. Stay strong. We're here for you. Congratulations about your daughter getting married.

Boy, I feel down. I cannot sleep at all. It seems like everyday just gets worse and worse. I would work 10 jobs if I could have my husband here with me now. I keep trying to stay positive, but I am really losing a little bit of my sanity day by day. I didn't know I could cry so much. It's just hard. I have been with my husband every single day for the past 8 years. I just don't know what to do. It's only been a week and a half since he left and I have 9 more to go.. then I just get to see him for only 6 hours.. then another 4 months of waiting. then what happens if he gets deployed right after training. How am I ever going to deal. You guys really help get me through. Focusing on this diet and getting everything out on here really helps. Sometimes, I just have to get it off my chest.

MyGrits- Oh gosh, I’m so sorry to hear about the stress that you are going through! I am praying for you and your hubby that something great lands your way, that will allow you to use your talents and it’s not “just a job”. I recall from last spring how proud you are of your daughter, it sounds like she is a lot like you- by being mindful and aware of the situation of those around you. Congrats on having a wonderful daughter and soon to be gaining a son-in-law.

Lindy- You’re doing so awesome on watching your calories and doing your research on the amount of calories you need to balance out with the mad-exercise you’ve been putting in! There’s a lady I work with that is in the same boat, she’s been doing the P90x for 4 weeks and she’s GAINED 3 pounds… and she figured out as well that she was taking in enough calories… hopefully it will work for her as well.

Tiff- What a beautiful bride…I love the splash of color, so sassy!!

Neesy- I’m sorry that you’re hurting so much and missing your man. I bet that it is really consuming when everything reminds you of him… I’ve never been through a situation exactly like that, but when I have been in situations where I’m counting down time and feel like I’m falling into a depression, I find that if I can set some kind of a mini-goal outside of the major event I’m waiting for, it helps to redirect my thoughts.
Anyway, I know nothing can substitute for him while he’s gone…just know we are here to read and help you through this… so, hugs from Minnesota to you and MyGrits :)

Okay, I need to head into work, hope all of you ladies have a wonderful day!

Ok...my focus today is on Mygrits...OMG....I cried, I balled my eyes out reading your post, I never knew I could feel so attached to a bunch of girls but as I saw Tiff go through her house sanfus and Neesy with her husband gone and now you, My grits - my heart just breaks. I am happy to hear your daughter is getting married, congratulations are in order, but I am so very sorry to hear about the financial situation. In time, things will work themselves out. Have you looked into all the "assistance" programs they have right now. Not welfare...but like, people are able to get their electric bills cut in half if no one is working in the house...just a thought?

Tiff - I LOVE YOUR DRESS!!! Absolutely gorgeous and you looked stunning it it. The splash of color was such a nice touch. I cant wait to see pics of you and Don (if he's ok with that). Oh, and as far as the running/walking issue. Yes...I have been walking and running since October of last year, more running now...and STILL have that problem. The trainer told me its because I am not stretching properly. You also HAVE TO wear good shoes to support your arches and such. Look on YouTube, I learned some great stretching techniques from there. Lastly, the chicken. Ya know what I do. I buy the rotisserie chicken from Publix and peel all the skin back and then break it into individual portions. One chicken lasts just me..about 5 meals, so I would say thats pretty good.

Maddiesmom- Playboy Mansion Grotto?! Lol...that was great. It was the pick me up I needed. Congrats on your 2 lb. weight loss, so happy for you.


Neesy - were here for you girl...vent away.

Back2Basics - thanks for the encouragement, this is where I let you all down...


Ok, got on the scale again today...where was it? BACK at 187! I cried, I sat on the edge of my bed and cried - A LOT. I know this is only weight loss, its not the end of the world and there are so many other people that have worst things to cry about but I am just beyond frustrated. Ok...maybe Ill take into mind that it could be water weight...BUT, even so, that would mean I have LOST anymore either. SO.....what did I do this morning? Well...I had physical this morning where I was required to fast for blood work, but as soon as that was done...I binged...boy did I binge. I had 1 mini chocolate donut, 2 hard boiled eggs with salt and pepper, 2 mini bagels with regular cream cheese (loaded I might add), 2 glasses of OJ and about 2-3 cups of dry raisin bran. UGH! I wish I could say I feel bad but I feel no worst than I did this morning, if that makes sense? Im not even going to evaluate my calories today. I have a AbsPlus class tonight that Im taking but the rest of the day I really dont even care. In fact, I planning what fast food restaurant I am going to plurge on today...I really just dont give a crap right now, Im am PO'd. So I sit here, typing, raisin bran crumbles stuck in my cleavage because I was such a ravage, I POURED the damn things in my mouth instead of using a spoon like any other human...and think - what now? What can I do now because I have tried so hard and have not seen any benefits. SOrry girls, this just isnt my week for sure.

Ok, Lindy - we're going to do an electronic intervention! First of all lots of hugs for your feeling so frustrated but bingeing is not the answer and I know you know that. Stop now, log everything you've eaten, give yourself enough calories to get through the day without being too hungry and GET BACK ON PLAN!

You know it's the right thing to do and you have the strength to do this. You have been exercising like crazy and eating super well AND WE KNOW YOU WILL SEE RESULTS, just maybe not right now when you want to see them, and for that I totally commiserate with you. I have no idea why the scale is not cooperating but we all know that we use the scale to measure weight loss because it's the most convenient tool we have, but it is certainly not good at just isolating fat loss. You are changing your body completely with this exercise routine so keep doing the right stuff and don't give up. The Lindy I know is no quitter. Seriously, are you going to let one of us win the challenge because you were mad at the scale and then punished yourself (note: the lack of logic here) for it's failings? Also, think about what you would say to one of us if we had the exact same situation. No way would you say 'Go ahead, keep on bingeing!'. Having a treat after fasting is one thing but it stops here! Don't make me get on a plane to come over and talk sense into you!!!!!

Girls, can you jump in with me on this intervention?!?

Lindy, what the **** are you doing? You KNOW the scale flunctuates and it isn't an 'accurate' calculation of fat loss. Get a grip already!!! You would be chewing me out if I had done that, and all your going to do is be pissed off tomorrow if you continue to eat your way through today. STOP IT! You even said it is probably water, and it probably is. Are you now going to blow it completely and make it into fat? Why? Think of all the sweat, stress and exercise you have done and you are shoving Raison Bran in your face! Come on, count out what you have eaten, slow down and plan out the rest of the day. I ask you if this was me, or better yet, your daughter as an adult, wouldn't you want her healthy and happy? What would you say to me or her right now if we were doing that?

Lindy Lindy Lindy- You're better than that girl! Although, the raisin bran crumbles cracked me up.. You can do this. The scale fluctuates. I'm sure you just hit a plateau. Thats what happened to me when I got down to 202 back in March. Then I gave up and gained a lot back. Don't let that happen to you. I know you won't. Just keep with it. It will come off eventually.

Tiff- I love the dress. Very pretty=) I love that color. I bet your wedding looked amazing


I'm feeling better today. It seems like it's the night that gets me. Anyway, I'm gonna go buy the Jillian 30DS dvd and try it out since you girls use it so much. I'll let you know how it goes

Lindy-we are not going to let you do this. NO FAST FOOD FOR LUNCH OR DINNER. See what you have already have and get back on plan the rest of the day. Who knows, by Sunday there might be a loss. Stop getting on the scale so much, remember when a lot of us were staying away from the scale for weeks at a time. Maybe the only day you should even look at the scale is Sunday. We are right here with you and have all been in your shoes. Dont sabotage yourself anymore!!! If you need to vent, then vent, but please dont fail at this(even if only for a day) We love you girl and want to see you succeed.

Sandy-thats what we are here for, anytime you need to talk, then do it, you dont have to keep it to yourself. Or even PM me.

Neesy-I know this is a hard time for you and we are here for you. When you are feeling lonely, log on and talk to us. Just keep in mind how surpirsed your husband is going to be when he sees how smokin you are gonna be. Glad you are feeling better today.

Dance and Sandy-you two are such an encouragement, even though your words were to Lindy, you really inspire me to keep going.

Going to a pet food store with my SIL, then coming home and gonna jump on my bike, get 30ds done and walk the dogs. Anyone have any good ham recipes? I need groceries and that is just about all I have in the freezer. I will check in later, need to get ready. Have a great day everyone.

Ok..ok...ok...thank you girls! It was a little too late, as I just logged on now, but Im not going to let the rest of the day go with it. Thank you! Thank you Dance for staging my intervention! lol...I needed it - bad. I just completely lost it this morning. After my morning binge, I wish I could say I did better, but nope - I had a snack size bag of Cheez its, a can of Coca Cola and sushi. BUT - on the positive side...I CAN rebound from this. According to my workout this morning, I burned 400 calories. Then im doing Bodyworks plus abs tonight, which is like 300 calories, so that is 700 calories. If I have a very light salad dinner, I will end the day at 1900 calories (AFTER working out, thats not total). So...thanks again girls, I needed that intervention, otherwise I might have skipped my exercise class and downed a whole pizza, lol. Ill catch up later, in addition to a bad weight day, its a bad work day.

Lindy - Hey, we all know it could have been much worse, right? <<Remembering past sessions with a giant-size bag of doritos>> We've all been there. Glad you're back on the wagon!

Thanks again girls...I have gained control and am feeling better. Hopefully this snafu wont mess me up too much on Sunday.

Burgundy - I hear what your saying about weighing daily, but I was only weighing once a week and everytime I did, I saw weight gain, which made me depressed, at least my thought process behind weighing daily was if I didnt see the scale going down, I could "tweek" it so that by Sunday, I would be able to report a loss but obviously, that plan didnt work.

Anyway, Mygrits - you had asked me about a pic of "Mr. Sweet 16", lol. He emailed me a pic today since we havent seen each other in a couple of weeks, so you'll have to give me your email so I can "show him off", lol. I dont want to post the photo in the forum since it is for public view and I dont think he'd appreciate his pic showing up all over the internet, lol.

Hey Lindy - It's Friday though, so atleast it's not a bad work day on a Monday! LOL........ I'm glad you are refocused and I know you will be to come Sunday. Sorry I yelled at you, but it's only because I care, and I know you would do the same for me! :-)

Today I didn't get up to workout...........I don't know why, but possibly the stress from yesterday fried my brain. It's pouring here now, so I may possibly swim some laps later to burn off my fat....LOL... My weight hasn't moved since Sunday, and I know it's because I haven't workout at all this week, so need to start kicking in my metabolism or should I say "Wake it up!"

Thanks again for your supportive, kind words everyone - you guys are the best! xoxoxox

Well Lindy, sorry I wasn't able to yell at you along with everyone else during your intervention, but I just can't log on during work anymore. I'm glad you got your thinking turned around. That's one thing I've noticed with you over the past 8 months (can you beleive it's been that long?), you may fall off the wagon, but you don't stay off. Your right back on plan within a day every time. I KNOW that you have probably lost inches with the insane amounts of working out that you have been doing. Plus, I'm not sure if you thought about this yet...you just upped your calories to 1800 this week and your body probably hasn't adjusted to that higher amount yet, hence the small gain. Once it does, you will be sure to see a loss. That's just my opinion.

Burgandy, I'm sorry but I'm no help with ham recipes. That's one thing I never buy except at christmas at Honey Baked Ham. Lol, and the only recipes I could think of involve copious amounts of cheese and potatos and many othe bad things.

Thanks for all the sweet comments about my picture.

So, right after I get back from my honeymoon guess what I get to come back to? Mini-tax season #2 of the year. This next month we will be doing all the returns that were extended and not filed by 4/15. We have 1 month left to do over 100 returns. Ugh! It seems near impossible and I am going to be under alot of stress and working alot of hours...AGAIN. Luckily though, after 9/15, I will be so NOT busy it's not even funny. We will have a month and a half of really slow time, so that is what I will keep in mind to get through this.

On the diet and weight front, I am on day 3 of perfect on plan. Reading about how awesome and motivated you guys all were last week really got me in the mode and kicked my butt in gear. I don't want to lose miserably!!! I have lost all of my honeymoon weight and then some. I am actually down 6 lbs from my weight when I returned from vacation on Tuesday. Now of course, we all know that is not all "real" weight, but I am feeling pretty darn good about myself :)

And last but certainly not least, Neesy. I guess I hadn't really put myself in your shoes and thought about how big of a deal it is that your husband went away. I have never been away from my husband (haha...I wrote fiance first) for more than a day since we started dating. I could not even begin to think how upset I would be if I weren't able to talk to him at the very least. I just know I wouldn't be able to concentrate on anything. So the fact that you are so focused on your diet now, is impressive to me. I hope you have plenty of family and friends to keep you occupied while he is gone. I would think that would help.

Hope everyone has a great friday night! TGIF!!!!

Holy COW I have missed a lot.

Tiff- Your had an amazingly beautiful dress. Isn't it amazing how great a dress can make you feel?? You look gorgeous! Love the color of the sash.
Also, leg cramping can come from a lack of or aclimating to lower doses of sodium. Make sure your diet has some light salt.

Sandy- My heart is breaking for you! I am just hoping that you can hold your head high and remember that none of that determines who you are and you are awesome! I hope you come through this unscaved. As for your daughter... I can not even imagine for 1 minute planning a wedding in 3 weeks. He must be a pretty darn special guy to put aside dreams of a bigger wedding and just wanting to do it! It could be a really good thing that they love eachother that much!

Vicky- 2lbs!! I am up that much (lol). You go girl.

Burgundy- I LOVE MICHIGAN. My fam is from detroit and up north. Where are you from? Take me to the beach!!!!

Neesy- I am so sorry! When my brothers (my best friends) went in to boot, it was as if they died. I wouldn't eat, I wouldn't come out of my room and when they graduated I cried so hard I didn't see anything. It must be like that x20 for your hubby. I promise it gets better once its over. Not always great but better.

Lindy- I have missed so much with you.
I eat cereal the same way! haha. And having a nice shelf to catch the crumbs... I share that too. I hope you have gotten past your binge. Its a few bad things and now you can get back on track. You are one of my #1 motivators so you can't fall off!! I need your solid additude to start 30ds and keep going.

As for me... I have been basically on and off all week. Today was the worst! White bread @ the farmers market, elk jerky (salt), a brownie, 2 mini chocolates, and it gets better... a burrito with no protien, just queso, rice and lettuce! AND regular SODA. I really shot myself in the foot today. I have gained 2 lbs back and I feel like I just can't stop. It's "oh well, I ruined the morning already, better just eat whatever." Then "well my morning was bad so I might as well just eat what eve and start again tomorrow." Worst additude ever. See how bad I need you guys! I have known you all for 2 weeks and I need you more than my local friends!

Okay. I am done. Nothing more in my mouth for the day and I will do a flush tomorrow. Tomorrow--- 30ds day one!

One more side note... Have you ever seen a picture of yourself that just makes you feel so bad about your self you could just quit! The pic of my in the blue with me and my hubby! Each one of my boobs look like it weighs 200lbs. The worst was when I voiced this about the pic, my family all agreed! OMG devistating. Hate that pic!!!!

AJ- I actually thought that was a cute pic. I keep all my really bad photos so that I will stay on track. Here's some of the absolute worst photos ever... I weighed at my max 240lbs. OMG. It keeps me focused. NEVER AGAIN.


http://i628.photobucket.com/albums/uu7/neesy_20/August%2009/th_Momscamera074.jpg (http://s628.photobucket.com/albums/uu7/neesy_20/August%2009/?action=view&current=Momscamera074.jpg)

http://i628.photobucket.com/albums/uu7/neesy_20/August%2009/th_Philadelphia-May07102.jpg (http://s628.photobucket.com/albums/uu7/neesy_20/August%2009/?action=view&current=Philadelphia-May07102.jpg)


Anyone else want to humiliate theirselves and post your worst photo?

I think you have the mose amazing skin I have ever seen! I can see your pretty cheek bones now though so I can tell there is a lot of you gone. =)

I have been dying to get on here all day - it's now 630 - still at work but everyone is gone thankfully - but then again - it is Friday night!!

Lindy - glad the intervention helped - it's frustrating to see no changes but I agree - it's very likely a plateau - I hit many of them when I lost all that weight before BUT I found I was still losing inches - so maybe focus on that a bit more than the scale? It's good to have a back up to that dreaded "tool" - although it can sure make us feel good, it can sure help us to want to poke our eyes out and just gouge down everything in sight. I agree with AJ - you are such a great motivator for all of us :) Nothing like pressure heh?

Tiff - fantastic dress - you looked so awesome - I bet you sure felt it too! And congrats on day 3 - especially during a heavy work time. I agree, this thread is extremely important to me even if I can't get on here much, when I do it really centers me!

Vicky -congrats on the 2 pounds - just go to show that eating well is well over half the battle. My trainer always told me it's 80% nutrition and 20% exercise. I hope your 'rehab' continues to go well - I bet you are itching to get back on it hard!

Burgandy - your day/night yesterday sounded awesome, the swim, the meal -yum! I wish I had a good ham recipe for you - my only advice is to cook it in the oven - yeah that's the extent of my cooking expertise!!! For some reason I am thinking pineapple though - weird!

Neesy - :( - I can only imagine how hard that must be for you - it's quite a life change. I can't relate but I can definitely say that I am glad that this forum helps you. And thanks for posting the picture - I am going to do it too. I have a fat picture and one where I was really healthy and I'm trying to use them both as motivators. I will post them to share!

Sandy - I echo all the comments everyone else said. I really wish there was something that I could say to help. But glad you are talking about, I find for me - it helps to get it out. I usually keep things bottled up too and when I do spill it really helps me. You are such a great person - I don't need to meet you in person to know that. My fingers are crossed for you and if I was close enough I would come with a hug and maybe a clown nose on or something - no wait I am TERRIFIED of clowns so I probably couldn't do that - but I would do something just as nice!

AJ - good for the flush - it's hard once you feel you eat too much to use it as excuse for the rest of the day to go ahead and eat everything, I suffer from that all the time. Good on you for getting on here and re-centering yourself. We've all been there that is for sure! I am thinking right now its Friday and I should really eat some bad food - but I am only eating celery right now - I almost want to dip it in chocolate - but that's kind of gross.

I'm doing pretty good. Yesterday I had two beer at work for a meeting we had and I felt hammered - it was quite funny. I was working on safety plans and felt drunk - WTH - not very smart :) Anyway I went home and fell asleep by 8PM - with my makeup on. I'm a very sad drunk - but sometimes when I have a few then I want to gorge on junk food so passing out early was great! It was probably because I had been up at 5Am working out that day! Today I didn't work out as Friday is my off day and I am looking forward to getting up tomorrow and getting a good one in. Then I have lunch with a special friend and seeing the Zombie march downtown. There are over 2000 people that dress up like zombies and march down the street. It's kind of morbid but since I am super scared of zombies too - maybe I will get over my fear! Food hasn't been too bad, I've had a few snacks today but they have been minor and I've been pretty controlled. And I am proud because I am under a lot of stress and I binge like a nutcase usually when I am like this!

Well this was a super long post - sorry for the long read! I look forward to weighing in on Sunday, I weighed in yesterday and was down 3 since Sunday but then again who knows what this Sunday will bring. I just keep trying on my target outfit on Sunday and changes in that is all that matters to me!

PS - Dance - what's new with you - you are so good at helping us all but how can we help you?

Hope all of you are having a more exciting night than I am!

Lindy-glad to see you turned your day around.

Sandy-did you get your swim in today. I am so jealous, I love swimming. I want a pool. I can go to Lake Huron or one of the smaller lakes, but a pool would be lovely.

Tiff-hope this mini tax season goes by quickly for you. Great job for staying on plan for 3 days. 6 lbs, yay. Sunday may be a good day for you.

AJ- I am in Oscoda, you have probably never heard of it. It is so small. I want to move back to AL, especially during the snowy winters. I think the picture is nice, a good one of you and your hubby.

Neesy-I dont know if I have any pics but a couple but not sure if they are on this computer. I will have to dig some up. I was 236 at my highest, and gained forty of it when my mother in law got sick and passed away all within 5 short months. If only i could have taken it all off in 5 months.

Staccie-how are the long work days going. Sounds like you are pretty tired when you get home. I would probably be hammered off 2 beers too, I never drink.

I decided to change it up tonight and didnt do 30ds, but I did do a golds gym cardio workout I have and man, I was sweating like crazy. It was a good workout. I may have to start doing it more. I have a day with the hubby tomorrow. We are going to pick up a few things I need for my trip and just spend some quality time together. If we stay home, we dont usually have a day where we have no company, there is always someone showing up. Usually my SIL, we love her, but we need OUR time too. Or his cousins come over drunk stumbling around my house. I will probably go back to 30ds tomorrow, just needed something different today. Have a good night girls.

I find trying to get pics on here is so frustating.

Anyway I posted some of my bad ones and where I hope to get again!

I remember looking at the 190 one a few years ago and thinking I have so much more to go - but this is proof that 190 doesn't look like 190 either and the scale isn't always the best way to tell! I love my tiny waist ---sigh!

Good morning girls...whew, its a new day and I am feeling much better! I got back on track for the most part, so thats good.

Thank you girls for your support (once again) and also, thank you for telling me that I am a huge motivator for each of you, I really do care about all of you and seeing you successful and it means the world to me to hear that. I have a HUGE THANK YOU to Dance and Mygrits, in general...everyone was extremely helpful but the two of you did the "tough love" -Im gonna get down right Jillian on your butt, lol, and it worked! Its what I needed for sure. So...

Mygrits - dont apologize! I needed it and you were right, I would have dished it out the same way, lol. Just remember that next time, when Im yelling at you and you want to kill me or even worst...send a bouquet of cookies to my house - lol.

Tiff- ugh...mini tax season, that sucks. Cant wait to have you back here full time, lol. Congrats on the 6...thats awesome!

AJ - YES!!! Your jumping on the 30DS band wagon, awesome! You are going to see a difference, I should have thought of this yesterday but, I have visibly noticed myself a difference in my arms, which is the spot I hate the most, so...I really think your going to love this DVD. I look forward to showing everyone the before and after, because if I can notice, I know you girls will be able to. Oh...the pics...the pics...I actually like the one of you and your hubby, but I understand the whole weight thing. Yes, I do have pics, Ill attach them to this post. :( God, I think I hate these pics worst than my "before" ones, lol. As far as your "off" day....**tisk-tisk**, you know better. When you have days like that, you should really try to make it counter productive with an extreme work out or something...ya know? Your still doing well though, so keep up the good work!

Burgundy - when I read your post about missing the 30DS I was automatically going into "pit bull" typing, as I would like to call it, lol. But then I saw you offset it with another DVD and was sooo proud of you! Yeah...the one thing I will admit about Jillians DVD is that it is soo incredibly boring. Most of the time I mute the DVD (I play it on my laptop) and watch music videos or TV while toggling back and forth with the DVD.

Stacie - OMG! I love your freakin pic...you look gorgeous, seriously gorgeous...too cute for words, lol. Glad to see you on here more often, I often enjiy reading your posts because they crack me up. The buzz off 2 beers..haha...been there!

OK...so I have a really super crazy idea but would be interested to see if anyone is interested, it is sooooo far away but just thinking. What if we create a BIG incentive for us as a group? I know the economy is bad right now but when it rebounds, maybe a year from now, if we can all get to our goal weights or at least very close (within 20 pds.), we go on a "girls cruise", just a small like 3 day one or something to the Bahamas or something? THey are sooo cheap right now, like 200 total for everything! I know, most of us have kids and hubbys but if it was something doable (is that a word? lol), Id totally be interested. Thoughts? Opinions? Also..suggestions, maybe something more "mini"? Maybe doing something in Tennesse (a cabin and hiking in the mountains?) That is a halfway point for most of us. IDK - I know, its a bit out there, just sayin. I would love to meet all of you one day.

Anyway...Im going to Universal today so I probably wont be able to log in today. Hope everyone has a good successful day, I will be here tomorrow for weigh in.

Ok, here's a nasty before pic from last fall (the bangs are fake clip-on bangs in case you're wondering) from an 80s party. Chubby face, big tummy - such fun. The really really awful pics never even made it off of the photocard : )

So I missed a lot last night/this morning!

Lindy - glad you're back on track! Not sure on the get together as most of my vacation time is booked up for a while (Did I tell you guys already that we're going to Costa Rica in January? Can't remember) Major swimsuit motivation for me - yikes! But I'm hoping to see you this fall when I hit Orlando for work at least.

Staccie - love, love, love the new avatar pic! You have the best smile! And just doing what you do - being there and being so supportive is exactly what I need but thanks for asking! This is the best I've done in ages at a weight loss effort and I really feel like I can keep on doing it all the way to goal (and maybe beyond) with all of your help!

Burgundy - good for you on the work out! I ended up using yesterday as a rest day and conked out early. So nice to get caught up on sleep - I have so much more energy today!

AJ - sounds like a tough week, food-wise! If I'm on too strict a plan, I come off the rails big time. What do you think about next week being a little less strict in food allowed or in calories but really sticking to it? Just an idea...

Tifftiff - good for you for sticking to plan! You are going to rock this weight loss thing now that you are focused!

mygrits - hope you're hanging in there with all the stress. Did you make it swimming? I'm curious too.

neesy - How are you holding up? That's such a tough situation. The times my bf and I have been apart (long story - will tell you guys about it some time), I find I have to make sure I don't have time to sit around in the evenings thinking about how sad and lonely I am or I really fall apart. Do you have girlfriends nearby that you can meet up with for meals or walks?


Down 2lbs so far this week (one more until I hit 25 lost!) so I'm still slowly making progress and chipping away at it - I'll never win any speed awards but I'm definitely starting to look more like a normal person and not the chubby girl. Had to go through the underwear drawer this morning and get rid of all the baggy ones, which was kind of nice. Am off for a run as it's cloudy here and not too hot to go this late and am planning on hiking tomorrow if the weather's decent. What's everyone else got planned for the weekend?

Dance - you're sure looking great and woo hoo for the just about 25 pounds...you're doing so awesome. Nice 80's outfit (glad you told us before lol). I love the 80's but the outfits from back then are better forgotten! I actually had real bangs like that (as most of us probably did). Time to buy some new undies - I like buying undies when they are not the jumpsuit kind (lol). My mom always used to buy me horrendous undies - one time for Christmas she bought me ones that I actually pull up over my boobs and wear as a jumpsuit - I pranced out and showed her and she never bought them again until many years later when I had put on some pounds and then bought me the stringy kind and that was no fun either - the strings were not flattering for my hips or anywhere else for that matter! I just tell her now I don't wear any to keep from the hassle (she hates that and doesn't bug me anymore) - but I do wear them just so ya all know :)

Lindy - hope you have fun at Universal - I have never been to Florida, it's on my list of places to go one day - whenever I stop working so much and start seeing parts of the world before I get too old and need a scooter to get around in!

Well I decided to sleep in today but I will head to the gym later this afternoon. The blankets just held me hostage and there was no getting out! Now I am off to lunch with a friend and then checking out the zombies. Nothing else planned because I have to work :( Oh well at least I can work at home in my sweats with no make-up and no one bugging me!

Weigh in tomorrow morning...

Wow, not going on here last night, I missed alot!

Neesy - Love your photo's. I know you feel you were heavier, but you still
look great.

Dance - Love the 80's photo and man does that bring back memories! I had the bangs teased up with the poofed up hair like Farrah - well, not quite that good. But I had he perm and all going on! LOL............

Staccie - First, love your hat! Absolutely adorable, and in your weightloss shots, boy you can tell you have lost. You look great in both, but can really see the weightloss. Your doing awesome! Oh, and the undies story, that really brought back memories!! LOL.......My mom used to by me grannie pantiees too and I also could pull them up to my shoulders. God, so unflattering!

Tiff - Tax Season already? I remember the past tax season and you were just overwhelmed with work. I hope this is quick, so we see you on here alot. I love it when your logged in daily - your such a motivator! ;-)

Lindy- Hope your having fun with Gabadoo!!!! Yes, yes, yes, I would love a 3 day 'chick' weekend. That would be awesome. Dance sounds busy, but like you said it can be a year from now, or whenever it works for everyone. I know Florida is far for many, but a cruise would be fun. If they wanted to come here, I have another option, my family has a beach house in New Smyrna we could use for long weekend too. It would be free, except for food. Its right on the beach with 2 pools - and ocean of course! LOL......Just a thought. Also, the mountains sound awesome too. I love my mountains, and in off season (not ski season) sometime you can find things cheaper. I am in though - whatever anyone wants to do!

AJ - Thank you for such kind, supportive words. I really appreciate it and love having you on here. You too, are a great inspiration.

I did get my swim in yesterday and it was nice to just take a mental break. I am alittle better - alittle. Financial stresses are still nagging at me, and yes I ate last night. I did good all day, and then just set the heck with it. I didn't go crazy, but still, I ate. I think there is just too much going on in my brain with finances, weddings, waiting for work, elderly parents, and weightloss!! This morning I woke up not feeling the best, so I didn't work out. I don't know if its a bug, hormones, or just stress, but I felt dizzy and sick to my stomach. I still have my workout clothes on determined to go do something, but so far I'm not up to it. After a yucky week, and not real workouts taking place, I will be thrilled if I maintained my weightloss from last week!

Will check in later, and you ladie on the 30DS I am sooooooo proud of you! You all are doing awesome!
__________________

Staccie-you look great at 190. I have pics too, just found them

Lindy-a get together of some sorts would be great, I mentioned something like that to my husband the other day. I would love to meet all of you and think we are all going to be lifelong friends

Dance-congrats on the 2 lbs and your pic isnt bad. Not like mine, wait til you see how HUGE I was.

Sandy-hope you get to feeling better and get a workout in today.

I havent done my workout yet today, but I will. Just got home. Spent a nice day with my husband. Ok, here are my pictures, beware!!!!!!

At my heaviest, not sure of my weight here
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/fatallison.jpg

I was around 195 here
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/gettinslim.jpg

June 05 bathing suit(195lbs)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/000_1058.jpg

August 09 bathing suit(222lbs)
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/DSCF2707.jpg

So I took my befores last night, and compared them to all of my pictures. I have actually taken pictures at about every 10 lbs, so I have alot to compare them too. It was depressing. I have lost just of 60 lbs...20% of my body weight almost. I feel like that is huge. But I can barely tell when I compare pictures in just about the same pose. I mean, yes I can tell in my face, which is kinda good, cause that's what people see the most. But I feel like I should be able to tell EVERYWHERE! In some pictures I feel like I actually look fatter in some places. Like my arms...omg....they are not shrinking...they were big before but now seem even bigger! It is my worst feature and my arms ruined some of my wedding pictures that would have been great otherwise if they hadn't shown a huge mass of flab. And we won't even talk about the one picture where the photographer caught me with my arm up...can we say batwings...UGH.

I know I'm complaining and whining. I know everyone has bigger concerns than the size of my arms. But it's just upsetting me today that I have been at this so long and lost what feels like so much but it's no where near enough. Ugh. Ok I'm done. Just ignore me if you want. Just had to get it out on "paper"

And no, I can't post my before...even though I suggested it. Maybe if there is a big enough difference in my befores and afters I will post them at the end. But at this point my ego would just be gone if I posted those pictures on the internet.

Tiff - You looked beautiful in your wedding photo's and I didn't notice your arms. I also bet nobody else did. That is something your conscious about, but doesn't mean it would ruin the pictures for other to see, because they probably wouldn't even notice. I hate my arms too, and lets not forget the thunder thighs and a**!!! I am always gripping about my pictures and my husband always says how awesome I look. He then told me years back, "Sandy, only you notice that stuff, everybody else thinks you look great." It was at that point I realized it was ME seeing the negatives on me.

Burgund - Wow, you can see the weightloss girl. You look wonderful in the blue bathing suit (June 5th). You go girl - your on your way!!

I didn't know we were doing pic's, but here are mine. I lost alot of weight 2 years ago and will post what I got down too, of course I gained back some from the stress of last year. The first one I was at 270lbs (still can't believe it), the second one at about 205, and then the last one at 183. Gosh I wish I was still there!!!

Anyway, still feeling dizzy and just funky, so no workout today. I just don't think it is a good idea. I haven't eaten much either. Tomorrow, if I am better I will, I will, I will workout. It's funny, but I actually miss it LOLO...........

Staccie - love your skinny pic! Isn't it fun to know exactly what you're aiming for?

mygrits - good for you for getting in your swim! look at your teeny tiny waist in the last pic - amazing!!!

Tifftiff - no worries if you don't want to post a before - we were all thrilled to see you in your wedding dress! AJ got us started but I think for some of us it's motivational to share with the rest our progress so far but the last thing we want to do is make anyone feel bad : )

Burgundy - love the cute light blue suit in your 195 pic and you look very toned!

I ended up getting a later start than I wanted on my run and just died in the heat, such a bummer! BF is coming over for dinner - lean steak, grilled eggplant, sauteed zucchini and strawberries for dessert. Can you tell I'm getting hungry already?

Tiff-you looked amazing in your wedding dress. You can share your pictures with us when you are ready. I just shared mine to look at where I was and to motivate myself to get back there.

Sandy-the bottom pic is now, the one with the strapless bathing suit. The other bathing suit is June 2005. I was 195lbs and am so ready to get back there. Hope you are feeling better tomorrow. You look great in the last pic, like dance said, such a tiny waist.

Dance-thanks for the compliments. I was walking and riding my bike during the dayand doing short workouts at night, when I lost those 32 lbs. I gained like 8 back from 2006-Dec2007, then the other 32 in 2008. I am ready to do this and get back to that. I can really tell my legs where smaller. I want it again.

I just got home, went out for dinner. We had..................pizza, but I only had 1 slice and a salad. Now I need to workout. Gonna get that done and hope for a loss tomorrow. I hope we all have losses.

Hi Ladies,
You are all posting your "before" pics...I felt so fat in the past that I never allowed pics to be taken of me. My heaviest (other than being pregnant) was my wedding day, but thank goodness the dress covered up the thunder thighs, and I hated my arms too, so luckily I found a dress that had sleeves.

Still no workout but have begun to feel better. The back hurts here and there and I overdid it yesterday, as my sister in law and boyfriend (whom we haven't met) came over for a bbq with my mother in law. My MIL is a huge stress for me, and I find that when she comes over, I eat more. She is one of those people who will give you a back handed compliment that is more like an insult and she never shuts up. So, I always tend to eat more.

Well, I turned the cycle around yesterday. My SIL brought over this shrimp, avocado, red onion dip with tortilla chips. I started to eat mindlessly, then thought, "Do I really want this?" and walked away. Dinner, I did really well. While they were scarfing down cheeseburgers and corn on the cob with a pound of salt and butter, I made myself a turkey burger and had some roasted veggies. They made brownies for dessert, and I didn't have a single one, so I did really well.

Sandy: hope you're feeling better soon. It's tough watching what you eat, etc. when you are under so much stress and you feel helpless. Trust me, I know the feeling. Keep your head up high and know that we're here whenever you need someone to talk to.

Lindy: I think it would be great to meet! The downside is that I have a little one, so I'm not sure how I could work that out, but if we plan far enough ahead, I'm sure plans can be made. How was it at Universal? Eating wise as well?

Burgundy: You are doing so well! Your pics now definitely show a loss. I think it's funny in all of your pics, your dogs are in the photo as well. Definitely not camera shy!

Hope you are all doing well and we'll talk after weigh in. We'll see how it goes, I had an entire week without working out and it's TOM. Fun times!

Lindy- I'm so in for a vacation. I'm always looking for an excuse to have a vacation. So, definitely! I LOVE cruises. I may even use the gym on the next one.. haha

Grits- You looked great in all your photos!

Tiff- I know there's a difference. That is ALOT of weight to lose. I'm always looking at the negative too. I still feel as fat as I did when I was 30lbs heavier. I don't feel like I look that different except for the fact my clothes got too big. I can't wait to see the before/after pics one day.

Maddiesmom- It sounds like you did pretty well. Way to go on saying no to the brownies!

I got a letter from my husband today. It's actually the third one I've gotten this week. They all sound like he's miserable.. he just keeps saying how he feels like he's in prison and he's homesick. It breaks my heart... but at the same time.. I'm just glad to hear from him at all. I was thinking about doing travel nursing while he is in training in maryland. That way I can see him on the weekends and some weeknights. I'm just scared he will get deployed right after training so I want to spend as much time with him as I can. Travel nursing has 4, 8, 12 wk assignments. They give you a furnished condo with all utilities paid and the hourly pay is double what I make now. So... all positives to me. The only downside is that I would be in a new strange place and I really have to be on top of my game to just go in a place and start work immediately without an orientation. I wrote my husband about it.. we'll see what he thinks. I can't send any of my letters until he gets placed in a platoon or something. So I have a ton of letters stacked up and ready to go and just waiting on an address.



Anyway, I have to work tomorrow. So, I will log in tomorrow night with my weigh in. Goodnight girls!

Hi ladies! First I have to tell you - I had a great lunch with my friend and kept it very healthy - then we went to the movie and I got a small bag of popcorn (now popcorn is my most favorite food ever) and I usually eat a large so I wasn't too bothered by it- anyway at the end of the move (I saw District 9 - it is very disturbing but best movie I have seen in years) I spent like 1/2 hour in washroom and I still feel yucky poo. They say it takes 6 hours to digest but I paid dearly for that popcorn. My body was giving me a severe spanking!! I think it turned me off forever - the cramps were so bad I was crying. Horrible. Anyway the rest of the day was good. I am hanging out at home tonight as the popcorn incident made me a little tired!

Sandy - you are sooo pretty - and I like all of your pics and in the last one you look so proud and happy. You remind me of a southren belle :) I hope as the day progressed you felt better.

Tiff - I have major issues with my arms too - other than my arse it's the last place I lose weight and I'm self conscious of the batwings too. I'm working on them 3 days a week (with weights) and it's reduced the cellulite a bit already. We definitely all have our spots!! I try to find spots that I like or have a bit more control over. I have dimples around my ribs and when I start losing weight they smile. I hated them before but now I see them as a unique thing. If my arms continue to be a problem I will just focus on the other body parts. But just think how far you've come....and how much healthier you get everyday!

Burgandy - wow the hair - beautiful and cute poochies (your dogs lol). We are around the same weight right now so let's keep on going!

Dance - you made me hungry - your dinner sounds sooo good! I really need to start cooking something more exciting!!! Hope you had a nice night!

Vicky - good control...it feels good to walk away!

Neesy - good luck on making the best choice for you and your husband...

And I am in for a vacation, just dependent on where I am as in six months I have no idea! So strange to have that!!

Well I am doing to relax and drink a ton of water. I hope that popcorn doesn't blow my weigh in tomorrow!!!!

Maddiesmom-way to go on not indulging. Hope your back is better soon so you can get back to your workouts.

Neesy-A girl I graduated with does travel nursing, she really seems to enjoy it. Hope you get that address soon!!

Staccie-I want my hair that long again. I love it, I am growing it out, but its taking forever. I love popcorn, sorry it messed with you.

I got my workout in. I am sweating and need to get in the shower, just wanted to check in before. I am addicted to us!! I am looking forward to weighing tomorrow.

Hi Ladies,

Thank you for the well wishes. I am a bit better as far as the dizziness and yucky feeling. The stress.....well.......hopefully soon. I think that is why I love working out, as it really helps me release that tightened up feeling I get from 'thinking' too much about finances. Anyway, I do appreciate all of you saying suck supportive, kind words to me. It really does mean alot.

Now Dance, thank you for the 'tiny waist' comment. I loved it when I was that size. I wish it would have lasted longer. I think I became too confident that I had my food and life under control. A tremendous about of stress hit us when we started caring for my father-in-law with Stage 4 cancer, and well food followed. I couldn't eat fast enough. Bye the way, your dinner sounded absolutely delicious! I hope you had a wonderful evening with your BF.

Neesy - Travel Nursing sounds wonderful. I mean alot of positives all the way around, except like you said the orientation. I am sure your skilled enough to not need that though! LOL......Your husband I know misses you terribly and I pray in a couple of more weeks he feel more comfortable in his environment. Once friendships are made and the muscles aren't sore anymore - I think it does get better. What is his major, or his career choice? I know that has a factor in immediate deployment or not. My daughters best-friends husband went in the Army and loves it. No deployments since he enlisted two years ago. He is in Nursing.

Burgurnd - Wow, your really 'focused' girl! One piece of pizza - I couldn't have done it! LOL......Good for you. I am also impressed with your workout routine!!!!!! I know you will be smiling tomorrow when you weigh in. I am really proud of you!

Brown-eyes - Thank you for the compliment. I felt pretty back then. I will again soon, just need to unload this stress and life will be brighter. Hooked on popcorn huh? I remember when I was. I had it bad though - tons of butter, and more butter......LOL..

Maddiesmom - You and me grounded for the week from workouts......lol......I am soooo proud of you though - Avocado Dip! Yummm. That would have been dangerous if I were there. The brownies too. However, if they were from an unkind MIL then I think I would have walked away too....LOL.... It is interesting you say you eat more when your MIL is present running her mouth. It made me think about my eating habits when certain people are present and I too tend to snack more. I know I do when under emotional stress (like now). I am proud of you sticking to your healthy eating. That reallly shows how strong you are. I am also glad your feeling better!

Seems like everyone is having the same idea. I took pics last night to change my avatar. Will upload them tomorrow and do that.

Neesy- I think that is a great idea. I moved out to LA for 2 years to be close to base and it made a whole world of difference. I hope he starts feeling well once the *** kicking part is over.

Sandy- I am so sorry that you are ill. I was that way all of last week. 3 days I thought I was going to faint. Extra watery fruit helped me (watermelon, cantaloupe, ect...)

Lindy- LOVE THE NEW PIC!!

Burgundy- Can't wait to see the new avitar.

Brown eyed- I think you will do fantastic tomorrow.

GOOD NEWS!! Day one of 30ds.... DONE. So friggin hard. And I got my husband to do it with me and he is even more tired than I am. He is also now counting calories and supporting me more. That feels fantastic. Although I am back on plan and working out again I am sure my weight loss is marginal or non existant this week so my hope is that ALL of you did 20x better than me! <3

Good morning ladies!

Wow...you guys are soo busy. I tried to upload before and after pics in my last post but have such issues with 3FC, I just gave up. So sorry. Its funny, because what most of you consider to be your worst pic, Im like...what?! She looks so cute. lol...I guess its how we perceive ourselfs.

OH...I am so excited about your guys being on board for a get together. As we work towards the end of this year, we can start really coordinating something. Maybe even work it around tax returns so its a little easier financially? At least...for those that get money back. lol

Ok...today is weigh in day and where am I - 185...STILL. BLAH...grrrr...boo-hoo. Im not going to let this get me down, I refuse. THis is week 3 Im going into...if I dont lose anything this week, then I have issues, but week 1 and 2...sure, I could have hit my plateau. Well, I have shin splints (again), so I cant run for a couple of days. But, Im going to take a brisk walk to do something. Also...with the exercises that Jillian does, I think Im going to have to skip 30DS for a few days too....crap, I really wanted to see what it was like to do 30DS straight. Oh well.

Burgundy - how you holding up girl....10 days straight, right? lol

Ill check in later. Going for my walk now.

Holy Cow girls, I am so far behind...I love all the new avatars, super cute gals! And truly, I am so inspired by everyones before, during and goal pictures. Burgundy I can totally relate with yours-- I need to dig out my photos and get them loaded for additional inspriation of what I will be "never again".

Neesy- good for you on the option to be a traveling nurse to spend more time with your hubby. My cousin did that for a couple of years and she always had some good stories to share. One time when she was near Hollywood, the "accomodations" she stayed in were very nice, however, she soon found out that next door to her apartment is where they were filming some "adult movies"....ha ha ha! Anyway, good luck on your adventures if they take you that way!

Lindy- Fun idea!!! I'm in for a girls vacation, although in reality, I wouldn't be able to get away until early spring if that's when it would take place. So, yes, after tax season I'd be game :)

Well, Friday I lifted one of my weights majorly wrong and threw myself out of whack for the last few days...and last night I SHOULD HAVE jumped on here for support, but what did I do instead? I ate pizza with my daughter. Let me rephase that, I gobbled up way too much of a deep dish pizza, while watching a movie -- with a beer of course. And I am paying for it dearly this morning-- my scale only did NOT go down, it went back up a pound from where I was at last week. :mad: I'm so mad at myself!! BUT, instead of wallowing in that and eating more this morning, I already got my butt onto the treadmill and made a healthy protein packed breakfast...and have written out my list of healthy goodness for a grocery trip later today. :carrot:

I am excited to see the big losses from you other gals today!!!

Awww...Back2Basics...that sucks about the pizza snafu and your injury. You'll hop back on this week and hit it hard. We all need a "binge" day, consider that yours for the next 2 weeks...lol.

OK...SO I KINDA HAVE GOOD NEWS - ya know how I weighed in at 185 today, well...I noticed after the fact that I got my TOM today. AND BAD!!! Ok...why ther heck am I soooo excited about this?! Lol...because Im nuts! Lol...no seriously, because Im bloated beyond belief, which means if I weighed 185 today, then I probably have really lost once TOM is gone, I will be able to tell. So woo-hoo! Sorry, I know...TMI post but I had to share my joyous news. :)

AJ-good job for getting 30ds and starting it right away. It is a great workout.

Lindy-sorry you are having to take it easy, but maybe it will help. I am holding up, yea 10 days straight. My arms are really sore today. You use the weights a lot in the cardio in level 3(with jumpnjacks, butt kicks) Hard stuff.

Basics-well yur binge day is over and your head is back on straight so you will see a loss next week.

As for me, I am down a lb. I was hoping for 2 but I will take the one. So I want to lose 2 this week to be back at 216 and 20 lbs down. Nothing planned for the day. May overhaul my kitchen. Cant wait to see everyone elses weigh ins.

This is good news Lindy! That also explains your mood and the baby binge the other morning. I mean that in a good way, of course. I know a few days, sometimes up to a week before Tom I am somewhat more emotional and tend to munch more. Of course I also have the problem with the scale not moving, then it usually goes up a pound or more. So, congratulations!

Backtobasics - Sorry about the pizza, however a 1 pound is not bad with eating that and beer, and remember if you kick in it today exercising, it should drop right back down.

AJ - that is awesome that your husband is doing this with you. I know the extra support really helps. Just being able to have nothing but healthy foods around the house would help me!

Well, it sounds like we may get together a year from now, or a little sooner - awesome! If we meet in the mountains, just think, we could even go riverrafting - woo hoo! If we use the beachhouse, it would need to be after mid-April, because it is usually is rented from January till then.

Ok, my stomach is better today - finally, and I have to say I am pleased with my weight. I am only down .4 from last Sunday, but I am so grateful I didn't gain. I know it could have been much less if I had exercised, however I will make it happen this week! So, total down since we started is 4.4, which puts me at 215.

Burgund, congratulations! I guess this means the race is on girl! You are only 1 pound up from me! ;-0 This means I need to kick it in or you are going to pass me up!

Check it later guys, and oh Lindy, love your new pic - very chic!

Sandy- I am glad you didn't gain. .4 is .4! Its something. Also I can't wait to see what the final decision is on the trip.

Burgundy- Good job! And I am sure 2 lbs is do-able. I am going to join you in cleaning out the kitchen today.

Lindy- I am so glad/sad/relieved to hear that. haha. I am sure you are down. You work SO hard!

Basics- Good for you for correcting yourself right away. I am sorry about the injury. Hope you are feeling better soon.

As for me... weight loss 0. *Celebrates* with every thing I put my poor body through this week its amazing I din't gain. Now its a new week and I can hit it hard.

We are moving to Arizona (boooo) in a month so I am busy busy packing and cleaning. I will chea\ck in later to see how every one else did!!

Good morning chickadees! Well for most of you it's already the afternoon but not here in the land of the Maple Leaf :) I am so unmotivated to go to work as it's beautiful outside but I have to. Oh well!

I am down 3 - I think it might be more but I did have that salty popcorn last night. Anyway I am happy with that. My dimples were noticeable today - and I sweat it hard at the gym.

Nice new pics - what a bunch of hotties!

BacktoBasics - sorry to hear about the pizza, but perhaps the salt is a reason you are up a pound if that was your only binge...drink tons of water today and try again tomorrow. But good on you to start with determination today!!!

Lindy - glad to hear TOM is in town as I bet that is a contributer to no change - and again I bet you have lost inches!!! TOM is a arsehole - but for you today he was a shining star :)

Burgandy - good on the 2 - and a good week will ensure 216 I bet!!! I wish hair grew as fast as my arse!! It would be down to my knees! Your hair is such a beautiful color too. Lucky!

Sandy - good for you as well - you, me and Burgandy are all around the same weight - I am at 216 - can't wait to get away from that 2!!! I never want to see that number again (unless of course it's like 142, 152, lol). Glad you are feeling better too!!!

AJ - better to stay the same than gain - and good luck with packing and cleaning - I dread doing that!!! Especially when I am somewhat of a packrat!!

Well I have to get ready and go to work :( ewww. Hope everyone else has a great Sunday!!

S

Wow, Browneyed 3 lbs is awesome! Congratulations! You are really doing awesome. Ok, now it is a close race for 3 of us - U, Burgund and Me! Woo Hoo!

AJ, Moving is tough, but is also great exercise - lots of arms, leg workout with much sweat.....LOL.... What takes you both to Arizona? I have never been there, but some friends of mine moved their temporary (Army base) and loved it.

Burgund - Love the pic and you can see a difference in your face - slimming down. Hair has grown too - wow!

Ok, I have done nothing today, except be a professional at laziness. If it doesn't storm, I may hit the pool for some laps later.

Bye for now!

Sandy- My husband is finishing school there. He is a musician and is going to open a recording studio. (hopefully Seattle!) Any ways, his school requires 8 months of education to be in Tempe AZ. Basically Phoenix. Its only hard because we have dogs and we are scared of scorpions and all of my friends and family are here. We lived in LA for a few years so 8 months should go by fast. I HOPE! We just found our new place and the gym is SOOOO nice. That is a huge plus!

Whoo whoo, I'm done with lunch and recharged! My daughter and I had lemon pepper grilled shrimp and red peppers--along with some steamed green beans. Funny thing, my 4 year old eats about 2/3 of the shrimp I make, so I only get stuck with a 1/3 which is okay-- I'm just lucky she loves this kind of stuff!

Lindy/Burgundy/MyGrits/AJ/Stacie- Exactly-- I actually hope/will work on that being my only binge day for the month! Pizza loves me, as much I love it-- it sticks around-- here and here and here and here! That's one food I need to just stay away from for awhile--- I can do it :)


Stacie- Great job on the 3 lbs down!!! Your rockin' it chica!

AJ- good luck on the move for you and your hubby-- 8 months isn't too bad and what a deal if you get to move to Seattle in the end of it!!!

MyGrits- congrats on the continued movement DOWN the scale! I'm so envious you get to swim laps so often...I love to swim! Just hard to do so and watch a 4 year old at the same time...


Now I'm off to finish up some laundry that is way overdue!! Have a good one ladies...

Sandy-me, you and Staccie are neck in neck and I am gaining on you. You better watch out!!! Congrats on the .4

Aj-maintaining is always better than a gain. I havent started my kitchen yet, but about to get up and do that. I'm sure 8 months in AZ will go by quickly for you

Staccie-3 lbs!!!! you rock.

Basics-lunch sounds yummy. I went the easy route and had a 6" from Subway.

Gonna get up and get started on the kitchen and get my workout in. I have to finish out these next 5 days of 30ds, not sure if I will get it in every day on my vacation. I wish all of ya'll could see my cute puppies and handsome husband all sleeping around me. I want to cuddle up with them too, but if I go to sleep, I will sleep the day away so not gonna do it. I will check in later

I am sure trying to get my time on here as much as I can before the week comes. But I built some time in my calendar each day to check in. AJ - Arizona is really great - my mom lived there in the winters for awhile and it was beautiful - my mom's dog never got bitten by a scorpion at all - but she ensured to spray around her place - hopefully wherever you are going they do that as well - it pretty much eliminates spiders and scorpians. I saw a few but I had to really look for them. Good for being supportive for you husband's career - it sounds pretty exciting.

Backtobasics - your lunch sounded really good...I keep saying I have to make more of an effort to eat more fantastically tasting food. When I do to Safeway soon here I am going to buy some more herbs and stuff. And great for getting recharged - that happened quick and that's awesome! Sounds like pizza is what theatre popcorn is for me - stay away altogether. As I said below I dont' cook much but I tried this pizza recipe once and it was good and really healthy:
Whole Wheat pita (about 150 calories)
Coat the pita with some salt free tomato paste or salsa works too (25 calories)
Put on 2 oz chunks of cooked chicken (100 calories), diced white and green onion, tomato, (20 calories) and whatever other veggies you like, and put a few pieces of fat free swiss cheese (70 calories) and bake it in the oven. It's really good. And you can substitute with shrimp, etc.

Burgandy, Sandy - we are neck and neck - :)

Well I really better get moving!

Howdy, girls! I'm still at 2lbs total for the week. Just got back from another hike and it was great. It's funny as I'm the one on the health kick but since I keep pushing to hike every weekend, my bf is getting in much better shape too (he doesn't need to lose weight but more exercise is always good). We were noticing how we just charge up the mountains now instead of taking millions of breaks and huffing and puffing. Kind of a cool NSV : ) My treat afterwards was some chips and salsa - it's definitely working for me to have a little bit of a treat (I log the calories all the same and make sure my net calories stay in the right range) on Sundays when we exercise a ton - my weight loss has stayed steady and I don't feel deprived the rest of the time. Do any of you guys do something similar?

AJ - sorry to hear you're leaving CO but you picked an excellent time of year to move to Arizona - fall, winter and spring are great but summer just kills you with the heat : ) And maintaining is good - after your mega-losses the other week, your body was probably just adjusting. I can feel a good week for you coming on! And congrats for starting 30ds - that's great!

Lindy - glad you've found the reason you haven't seen a loss as fast as you deserve. After this week, I'm sure you'll see a big drop! Love the new avatar pic - so gorgeous! Sorry to hear your shins are still bothering you. I had to switch to running on dirt paths instead of concrete or asphalt and avoiding jumping jacks and other jumpy exercises entirely. Once you're healed up, you might want to experiment with changing up where you run to a softer surface and substituting lunges or squats for jumping jacks with your videos - just an idea.

Burgundy - Love your pic too! A big giant WOOHOO on losing a pound - good for you!!

Back2basics - bummer on the pizza but great job turning things around!

Staccie - 3lbs!!??!! While you're working like crazy? I think that calls for a dancing carrot: :carrot: That's awesome - you rock!

mygrits - congrats on the .4 - with everything you have going on, that's impressive! And you're doing great overall - 4.4 since 8/1 is really great!

Apologies if I missed anyone or anything big - there was tons to catch up on and I'm afraid I'll lose my post if I don't hit submit soon.

Dance I love hiking. I really wish I lived in the mountains. We used to go yearly and I felt like I was 'home.' The last two years we haven't been able to take the trip - boy do I ever miss it ;-( Sounds like your hiking has really help your lung capacity and muscle strength. Good for you! I do have a treat day, which is Sunday. I try to stay within my calorie range for whatever I endulge in. Today is was 2 slices of pizza......yummmy.

Staccie - Yes we are neck and neck with Burgund! The race is on! LOL.....From your writings, it really sounds like you have done some traveling......boy am I envious. I have always wanted to do that, but never able. Good for you!

AJ - As Staccie said, just make sure they have some exterminating services. I am sure all will be fine, and I bet you love it there. Look at it as a new travel adventure! Woo Hoo!

Basics - I tell you - you should open up a healthy cafe! Your a great cook, and you would do really well having a cafe! LOL......seriously! I think that is really awesome that your daughter its healthy foods and loves them. That says alot for you as a mom!

Well, today has been extremely lazy. I mean really lazy. So, tomorrow is a kick butt day. I am getting up early and moving my body!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Time to drop another 4 lbs! LOL........

Wow girls...weight loss across the board for the most part...awesome! CONGRATULATIONS, especially Stacie...thats huge!

Burgundy - I LOVE your pic, I didnt even recognize you. BEAUTIFUL!

I just got home from shopping, Im in a size medium. Its crazy bc Im so far from my goal and the fact that I can fit into a medium makes me wonder if my goal is too low? Idk...its a good problem to have.

Ill check in tomorrow.

Grits- He signed up for mechanic. So.. who knows..

AJ-What part of AZ? I lived in Tucson for a while. I loved it! And it is a great time to be there.

Lindy- I'm jealous. What a problem to have. Boy you have it tough. =)

I lost 3lbs this week. YAY! I'm getting closer to onederland again. I can taste it. I know this pace won't hold up, so I'm going to kick it into gear at the gym this week. I'll catch up more tomorrow. I'm too tired to even sit right now. I need my bed. C-ya!

My weight this morning was 290.4, so it fluctuated up a little less than a lb from earlier this week. but I know it's just me being bloated. Hopefully tomorrow I will be back down again. I have only lost 2 lbs since the beginning of our challenge. As for all of us going on a vaca...count me in. Just tell me where to be and when to be there!

Neesy - Oh my gosh, awesome on the weightloss. I am jealous because I was on your butt, now you zoomed ahead! I will catch you though - watch out......lol....... Mechanic that is a tough one, but you never know. A friend of mines husband and her son, were both mechanics and stationed in Georgia for a long, long time. As far as I know the son never went over seas, and the husband elected to for a two year stint, then came back. I am not sure where he went when over there. Mechanics are needed everywhere, heavens you may get to visit some really nice places too.......Italy, Japan, Hawaii......I have known several friends stationed in Japan and all loved it over there.

Tiff - What a beautiful picture you of and your husband. Absolutely gorgeous! Congratulations on your weight too. You are down, even after a honeymoon and that is awesome!

Lindy - Loving the medium now! That has to feel great. It just means those workouts are paying off.

Check in tomorrow ladies.

Boy, I really need to get on here throughout the day! I had a lot of reading to catch up on.

AJ: Maintaining is a good thing, better than a gain. Hope you enjoy AZ, I've never been there, but I'm sure it's beautiful. The gym thing sounds wonderful as well.

CONGRATS TO ALL ON THE LOSSES! We're really kicking some butt! I'm down 1 pound, and I'll take it after the week I've had as well as the TOM from ****. This has to be my worst ever. I'm on muscle relaxers for my back, and you think that would help with the cramps, but it doesn't. I was laying on the couch in complete pain...so much so that I forgot about my back! LOL

I think my back is getting better, didn't go to the gym this weekend...I wanted to play it safe just in case. I'm going to go back slowly, but I do have an appt. with my new trainer next week. We'll see how that goes. I just have to get up and motivated again. I'm worried about getting back in my routine after no working out for a week. We'll see.

Neesy: Hope you are doing well. I hope your hubby's letters are some source of comfort, even though he sounds miserable. I'm sure he's missing you as much as your missing him. It's a tough time, but in the end, I'm sure all of this will be worth it.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend ladies!

Burg- Great job on the DS...only 5 days left, that's awesome!!

Stacie- I hope you picked up some good herbs today, I need to branch out on those and try something new. And your pizza sounds delish and best of all, pretty healthy! I'll have to give that a try sometime when I feel the beast come back...

Dance- Wow, you are so amazing to do all that hiking! I'm in my 2nd week of jog/walking and I'm tuckered, can't imagine adding elevation at this point... but I'm working towards it!

MyGrits- somedays I feel like my home is a personal cafe to my 4 year old :) My parents actually owned a couple of restaurants while I was growing up... it's a non-vacation kind of a job, unless you hook up with a good manager you can trust... but, thanks for the kudos, perhaps I'll keep that idea in the back of mind to think more about.

Lindy- A medium? Awesome girl! How I long for my clothing to not have an "L" involved in it...

Neesy- Great job losing 3 pounds!!!

Maddies- Good for you to rest on that back, no sense in making it worse last week! I hope it goes well for you on your week back into the gym.


Well, I just finished up my jog/walk for the day...ack, I am staying positive, but have to say at this point, I have no idea how I'll be running a 5K in 9 weeks. However, I AM going to finish it no matter what, but the goal is to run the entire thing. Like one of my friends said, "Don't stand in your own way".. LOVE THAT, think I may have to copyright that and put it on my signature.
Also, I'm so stoked-- now my brother and SIL are joining in..that makes 12 so far of my friends/family that will be running the Monster Dash with me!:running::running::running::running::running:

I am suffering from a huge lack of motivation - for doing my work :( I think my mind and body literally shuts down on the weekend and doesn't allow me to work so I can make it through the week - perhaps I should listen to it. I am sitting here totally procrastinating and thinking well if I don't get this particular thing done what are the consequences? Then I get a little squirrely.

Neesy woo hoo on the loss - 3 lbs is great - I'm trying on my outfit tonight too, maybe it was 3 inches as well - ah one can't wish too hard!

Lindy - medium - woo hoo too! Like Back2basics I can't wait to get the work L out of my fitting, just like the number 2!! What a great feeling!! As for your goal, I say go until you are toned, with healthy BMI and then what it is, it is. I have a few girlfriends that weigh 150 and look amazing. Fact is, you are getting closer everyday - wait until that small slides on you!!!

Vicky - that's great too - I hope the back continues to improve - are you doing some stretching to keep the muscles from tightening up?

Back2Basics - good for you on the 5K - what an amazing feeling that will be and with support too!! I wish I could do that but I don't like running - at least now anyway - even though I found a supportive bra, I think I still might get black eyes :) 9 weeks - doing lots of cardio and training - you will do awesome!!!!!!

Dance - thanks so much for the carrot! I love that little guy!

Well - deep sigh - I wish you all a great week! I will be on at least once a day, hopefully more - especially if the crunchie munchie visits me during my stress this week. The week leading up to the event is always nuts and I have so much to do but as long as I get that work out in every morning and stay below my calorie range - I bet it will be much easier to get through than if I was eating junk and being lazy. Short term pain for long term gain. Funny how the gain happened so much quicker with my arse!!! :carrot:

Morning, girls!

Neesy - you are a weight loss machine!! Onederland is within reach - you can do it!

Maddiesmom - congrats on the loss! With all of the obstacles in your way right now, you are still making it happen!

back2basics - keep on truckin' with your training and I bet you'll surprise yourself on the 5k! Someone gave me some advice once that was really helpful and it was to slow it way down while you're getting started as a lot of people try to go too fast and totally wear themselves out. Does that apply to you at all?

Tiff - good for you on the loss! What food/exercise plan are you on right now?

Lindy - congrats on the M!!! Fun, isn't it? I've bought a few lately and they make me ridiculously happy : ) Last week I panicked about not being able to find shorts and capris this winter before our Costa Rica trip and bought a few in a size 8 (which I should fit into when I'm about 145 if memory serves) as I have 12s and 10s still around from earlier smaller times but I'm really hoping that they'll be too big by the time January rolls around. I think 145 will end up being my goal in the end as I remember feeling good at that weight. Do you have memories of 125? If not, how did you pick it?

mygrits - this is your week, I just know it! If you shoot for more exercise than last week, I bet it will help with stress management. Tell us how it goes - we're rooting for you!

Better get ready for work...

Goodmorning Ladies!

I don't know what this week brings, but I did get my workout in this morning. I got up early, hit the concrete and got my workout in. Can you believe it was already hot by 7:30am? Florida is just gross this time of year...lol. I really was miserable and gripped the whole time - but I got it done. I am feeling better already, just praying this week brings good news.....other than hurricanes! LOL........

Dance - You are doing so fantastic and I do believe you will be wearing those size 8's when you hit the Costa Rica sands....... I do remember being 125, but that was too thin for me. I remember my mother-in-law coming in my bathroom and asking me if I was anorexic! Hilarious, as much as I like food! LOL.......I have high cheek bones and when I am smaller my face just looks thin. I good weight for me is around 135 to 145.

Check in later, my daughter is on her way from Georgia to show me her wedding dress! I can't wait to see her!!

Good morning girls...I am soooo sleepy today, I stayed up talking to Mr. Sweet 16 until after 11 at night! Thats WAY past my bedtime and I will not be doing that again. It wasnt intentionally done, I just lost track of time.

Anyway...

Dance - no, I do not have memories of 125...as I think I was 10 last time I weighed that little, lol. No, but seriously, I was never obsessive about my weight when i was younger, so I never weighed myself. The lowest I got was 170 and I was a size 10, that was a good size but I definately want to be smaller than that. I love the fact that you purchase size 8 clothing, its almost like those are your "goal" outfits...great motivation. I almost bought this dress I saw yesterday, I saw it and fell in LOVE. It was so HOT...size 6, but I didnt have the extra money to make the purchase this time around. Maybe next time?

Stacie - its crazy that you work weekends too. I just couldnt do it, I would be so lazy during the week if I worked that much. More power to you. It never seems to fail...arse....cracks me up everytime.


Back2Basics - you'll get there girl. Its amazing how fast you warm up to running. I never in a million years thought I could run more than a mile, but now I do 3 miles a day. Its fantastic that you have so much support!

Maddiesmom - a pound without exercise...ugh, Im jealous! I mean...congratulations, lol! Good job.

Ok...so its settled, a girls "GOAL" vaca is agreed upon. When November gets around, we will take a poll to see where the location is and then I will work on coordinating the additional details. This is so great...so excited!

Ok..I have been typing this for 1 hour already, I have to get to work. Ill touch base later.

Staccie-your pizza recipe sounds yummy, I may have to try it. Hope your week isnt too crazy. Dont get too stressed.

Dance-your hikes sound amazing, sounds like you are trucking right along on them too.

Sandy-I am with you, we both lost 4 lbs, now time to lose another 4

Lindy-not sure about my new pic, may end up changing it again. My husband picked that one. *jealous* mediums, thats awesome. Sounds like things are going pretty well with 16 pack. I dont know if I said anything yet. But I am in on the vacay. After tax season would be great.

Neesy-you will be in onederland SOON!!!! 3 lbs is great.

Tiff-thats not even a full lb, you will be back down soon. You are doing great

maddiesmom-glad your back is getting better. You will be back to your routine and giving us all a run for our money. Make sure the trainer takes it easy on you the first couple of times.

Basics-I keep saying I want to do the couch to 5k. Let me know how you like it. I may have to start it when i get back from NY

I got on the scale this morning and was down another .5lb, 217.5, yay. Hope it stays there and goes down to 216 this week. I may end up weighing in on Friday morning this week. I will be in NY on Sunday and wont have my scale. Thats the only scale I will go by. I am so excited to go....gonna have a great week next week. Dont know how often I can log on here though. Ok, need to go to town for some dog food and get my workout in. Have a great day ladies.

Ahhhh...this is just me venting...no need to reply.

So, Mr. Sweet 16 is taking me out on a date tomorrow, since he's a cop, its hard for him to get weekends off so I gave in and took a personal day from work. Well, we were planning a trip to Epcot but realized there really wasnt much going on there, so were going to wait till fall until the food and wine festival. Anyway...we decided to just "stay in" and hes going to come to my house to watch movies and then were going to grab lunch and go from there. So..why am I griping? My mom lives 4 houses down and even if Im late for work, shes calls and says "Nicole, is everything ok, why are you running late" lol. So naturally I had to tell her I was having "company" over. HA...that went well. My mom is not happy about the separation and yes, I will openly admit that maybe I started dating too soon after my husband moved out but wehave been separated since March. Point being...if things do work out to be favorable with Mr. Sweet 16 (which is sooo far down the road),then my mom already doesnt like him. And she keeps saying "ya know Nicole, looks arent everything, your going to find a better guy who makes more money, takes care of you financially and will cheat on you bc thats what guys like that do". Grrr...it makes me mad. She just rather see me complascent and "safe" then with someone who makes me happy, that Im attracted to and is willing to take care of me. Its like...she thinks I cant do any better, and if I do...he's a dog. Meanwhile, I tried explaining to her that he's a good guy with a good job who is self sufficient and is somewhat religious...but noooo...shes just like, "you live your life how you want to". Which I know is true but Im so close to my mom, I just would hate to disappoint her.

There is absolutely no point to this story, I just needed to get this off my chest.

Lindy-Oh.. mothers. We try so hard to make them proud and yet it always feels like we are disappointing. My mother is the same way. She absolutely hated my husband for the first 2years. Now.. she loves him. I guess she saw that he does care about me and has stuck around 8 years and just basically got to know him more. Maybe when and if you and 16pk get serious, you can introduce him and they can try and get to know one another. You can't please everyone, all you can say is that you tried.


I'm feeling really dizzy and lightheaded today. I think I need to eat. I just got back from work... which is my off day, yet I had to go do this class for like an hour. Well, I park in the guest parking garage. The only time I ever did this and I got a ticket on my car. These security gaurds at work are pricks. I don't have to pay anything, but it says next time I will be towed. If they ever tow me, I will quit. I refuse to pay to go to work. Just ridiculous. Is it really that serious. Just me venting too. haha
Oh and in other news, my husband is not in basic training yet!!! He is still in whats called "reception" He was suppose to start last week, but they delayed it until later this week. So.. he still has to 9 weeks after he finally starts basic. It's just pushing his graduation date further and further. The army is stupid.

My scale said 208 this morning, but I feel dehydrated or something. I'm gonna go drink lots of water and eat a good meal. Not a lean cuisine like I normally do. I think I will go get a grilled chicken salad from a restaurant nearby. That sounds good. well. talk to you later!

Good afternoon chickadees,

Yeah I am logging in during lunch time - woo hoo! And Dance - you will be proud - I couldn't get all my cardio in this morning so I jogged home from the gym. Whew - that was hard but it felt great. I might try that more often!

Sandy - feels good to get that workout done early heh - I can't imagine the heat there - it was hot here for a week and I thought I would die (we are by the ocean so the humidity is horrible). I saw there are some hurricanes on the way - hope they don't hit you!!! I was 115 when I was in high school, I was way too skinny too - I think I will be around 150 or so and look great. Have fun with your daughter and seeing the dress - so exciting!

Burgandy - you are on my behind...or arse I should say! Good for you - you are steaming right along. I so agree about using the same scale, especially with scales having calibars off - I use the same one at the gym each time. And going to NY - so lucky. I have never been and really want to go!! I think I would love it there - shopping, the people, the architecture...I am so jealous!

Lindy - date - that's awesome!!! Sorry about your mom - sounds like (and I could be wrong so if I am, I apologize) that you hadn't been happy for a long time so it's not dating too soon at all. Attraction - physical, mental and emotional is more important than anything. If I met a guy that worked at Subway and he had all those things I really wouldn't care. Plus, how long has it been since you've had feelings like this? It feels great doesn't it!! Our mom's sound very alike and we are close too for the most part, although somedays - ohhhhh!!!! Anyway, I bet if she sees the happiness and the change she will forego her other thoughts and comments - it may take some time :)

Well I am back to my lunch and my day, looks like a 14 hour one today - eck! But I had an awesome workout and felt all rubbery this morning. I said to my co-workers I feel like a rubber - lol. It brought smiles all around - I tend to have a bit sick of a mind - I got to keep things interesting ya know! I am eating a great lunch and feel good. I have to remember this when I hit my stress spot - but hopefully I won't now that my balance is good with things.

I will log in later. I hope everyone is having a fantastic day!!!

Howdy all! You guys wouldn't believe what a big part of my day you are - I think of this group when I plan my day, at every meal and everytime I workout or make exercise plans with a friend. Honestly - you guys are the best! My mom and my bf are probably sick to death of me telling stories that involve 'one of my friends from the board'.

Staccie - you continue to amaze me! Good for you for running home from the gym - that's seriously disciplined!

Neesy - sorry to hear about the delays in your hubby's training - that's a bummer! And yes, if you're dizzy, some seriously good nutrition and lots to drink will probably help. Hang in there!

Lindy - too bad about your mom's reaction - that must be really hard on you when it's something you're excited about and you get those waves of disapproval. Sounds like you and Mr. Officer will have a great day though. The all important question - what are you wearing? : )

burgundy - you are so on a roll - way to go!

mygrits - You rock for getting your exercise in early - I know how hard that is!! And thanks for not busting out laughing about my size 8 trip shopping - you are always so encouraging!!

Doing great foodwise today - had a team lunch today and had grilled trout and sauteed spinach, very diet friendly even if I felt super high maintenance for asking for it that way instead of the way it usually comes : ) Am planning on white chili over brown rice and veggies for dinner tonight - what's everyone else having for dinner?

Hugs all around to my best girls...

Thanks girls for the love and support...especially lately, man oh man have I been on a rollercoaster! Anyway...I am happy with my situation, with Mr. Sweet 16 and I think as long as I dont talk about him too much with her, she'll get over it and when the time is right to meet, then so be it. But trust me...that will honestly not be until maybe next year or even Christmas time.

Neesy - the Army does stink! Pooh on your news about your hubby, gosh...well, lets try to find the positive in this...um, well...oh...ok...you have more time to get svelt for him, maybe even take off a little more? Ok...thats good, right? No? ok...I tried, lol. How are you feeling now? Maybe your getting too few calories and thats why your feeling dizzy? Nonetheless...I hope you feel better.

Stacie - go you...go you...its your birthday...go you. Ok, its not your birthday, lol...but Im super stoked to see that you were able to log on. You have quite the schedule. Kudos on the jog too. How long is the run anyway? Oh and thanks for relating with me on the guy and mom front. I feel the same way as you, as long as Mr. Subway guy has all the qualities Im looking for...why not? lol.

Dance - I am the same way! I tell my mom stories ALL THE TIME about you girls, hope you dont mind, lol. Wow...reading the description of your lunch made my mouth water....<drooling>, I want some! Hmmmm...for dinner, I am having rotisserie chicken without the skin and squash, kinda bland but it works. Oh in reference to what Im wearing...I want to look like "im not trying but yes Im smokin hot" lol...so, Im wearing a pair of boot leg jeans and Im going to pick up this black top that I tried on yesterday but didnt buy. Anyway...I probably wont log in until tomorrow evening, so wish me luck. :)

Umph, I've had an arse day. I kinda feel like crawling into a corner and ripping my hair out! AHHHH! But I'm looking forward to sleep and then working out tomorrow (I really think working out in the am is the only thing really keeping me going). It's 630, I got here at 8 and I will be here for at least another 3 hours.

Anyway - just had to vent!

My jog was only about 5 city blocks so not too far - it was tough!!! But a good way to get in some extra cardio and about 10 more min sleep!

Dance- yum for your food. I didn't pack enough for lunch today :( Damn. I guess it's yogurt, almonds and a protein bar. Got to ensure I pack lunch tomorrow.

Lindy - good luck with woo hoo..kissy kissy! And that outfit sounds smoking - you go girl!

Well if I ever want to get out of here....I better get back to work. Tomorrow is another nasty arse day so I hope to log on at lunch!

Toots!

S

Burgund - You are doing awesome, wow 217!! You will be 216 and heck maybe 215 if you do alot of walking in NY! Sounds like your planning a fund weekend and yes, I agree about the same scale. I can't weigh anywhere else except my bathroom......lol.

Neesy - Dang Army. That really sucks, and I am so sorry. Now I know exactly what he meant when he felt like he was in prison. Since he is on reception, that means he is making no progress and doing nothing and not allowed to do anything else......lol. Really sucks. Sorry, but like Lindy said, be positive that this gives you more time to reduce and be smokin hot for him. I know it's tough though. My thoughts are with you! Oh, and eat some protein with some healthy greens. This may help the dizziness.

Lindy - Well, Mr. Sweet 16.........lol. Momma will see the light, when needed. My mom was the same way. It was always, "Oh, Sandy, is that wise." and more and more and more comments............ugh. However, she always came around when needed, but it took time. She is very old fashion and wasn't use to the younger lifestyles..........you know, single mom dating. Anyway, just take it slow, don't overwhelm her and she will adjust. Have fun.........well, not too much fun..........LOL...........smooch, smooch.

Dance - Yummm, I love trout and any kind of fish, and spinach is one of my fav's. I have loved spinach with just a touch of salt since I was a kid. Dinner for me.......well I was bad. I was still out with my daughter and had a 'mother load' of a burrito with the works.......yummm - I was bad, but it was good. ;-)

Staccie - Your a hoot. Love the gym workout......outdoors.....lol......You really do put in some long days......gosh 14 hours is alot of worktime! I would have to workout too just to relax the muscles. I hope tomorrow is better for you.

Today was great and spent with my daughter. Her wedding dress is absolutely stunning. We went out with one of her Navy girlfriends - another MA and shopped for bridesmaid dresses and stuff for the reception. I can't believe she is getting married........dang I am getting old! Well, I am signing off, as we were out for 10 hours and I am pooped.

I will check in more tomorrow. Nite.

Hey girls. I didn't forget about you. My internet is struggling. I had a really bad day over all but I got a ton of exercise and I did my day 3 of 30ds. Love it. So friggin' sore.

Lindy- I am glad that you are smitten with that guy. He sounds hot.

Sandy- I can't wait to see pics? Did you get a mothers dress. Its a great excuse to buy a beautiful dress.

Burgundy- Awesome! You are going to hit your short term goal in no time.

Neesy- I am so sorry. The military sucks. They do that with deployments too and that REALLY sucks. *HUGS*

Hey girls - not a lot of time, really quick post:

Mygrits - I cant wait to see the pics of Alina in her wedding dress. I feel like I know your families we talk so much on her. So the question is...did you ball your eyes out when you saw her? lol.

AJ - dont you love how much pain your in with 30DS? lol. I will admit, it is virtually impossible to do it 30 days straight and if you do, some days you pretty much just half arse (haha-Stacie, arse) it.

Ok...so, on the day that I spend the day with Mr. Perfect...sorry, ahem...Mr. Sweet 16, lol...I hop on the scale and it has finally decided to make up with me and be my friend...183! Yes...2 pounds!!! Woo-freakin-hoo. I was already having a great hair day, great make up day, ****...my nails even looked good, lol...so to have this as the icing on the cake...Im golden. Also...I went and got a pair of jeans yesterday and I was able to fit into a JUNIORS 13. This is great bc a 13 in juniors is equivilant to about a 12 (or extremely tight, I cant breath, going to die...10) for me, lol.

Ok....When Im on my up...Im on my up....and this is great. Have a great day girls!

Lindy-Hope you have a wonderful day with Mr 16 and just give mom some time and I am sure she will come around. Congrats on being down 2 lbs and having a great day overall.

Neesy-hopefully your husband can enjoy himself soon. You just gotta think of the positives(lookin hot) for when you do she him.

Staccie-glad the workouts relax you for your 14 hour days. 5 block jog is good, and sleeping in is always a plus.

Dance-I do the same thing, tell my families about something we said here or one of you inspiring ladies. Ya'll are all great friends. The trout and spinach sounds yummy.

Sandy-I am looking forward to my trip. I will be there a little over a week. Cant wait. My best friend still doesnt know I am coming. Cant wait to see pics of your daughters dress.

AJ-great job on the 30ds. I have 3 more days to do it before I leave.

We have a BBQ to go to tonight at 6. The last few that we have gone to have been good. I have eaten well, some of the family is vegetarian so there are always healthy options. I will be good, promise. I am getting really excited about my trip and want to lose a couple more lbs. I know I can. Got my kitchen and dining room finished yesterday. Now today gotta work on the bathrooms. I will check in later. Have a great day everyone.

Ok, just finished my workout, level 3 is killer. Lindy have you moved on to level 3 yet. Hopefully if we dont get home too late, I can do the golds gym workout too. Gotta get in the shower.

Howdy, all! I'm a little behind this morning - having a work from home day and was caught up with other stuff earlier.

burgundy - way to go on the workouts! And good luck resisting temptation at the bbq!

aj - good for you on the exercise!

lindy - so glad the stars aligned for you today! And a little bit of we told you so on the weight loss : ) but what perfect timing - I bet you look wonderful!

mygrits - so glad you're enjoying the special time with your daughter.

staccie - hang in there, kiddo! It sounds tough...

Didn't do well at all from dinner on yesterday - went for a walk with a friend after dinner and came back hungry although I'd already eaten and had way too much cheese and crackers. Not enough to gain but definitely at maintenance and not weight loss level : ( Back on the wagon today and cleaned out some drawers this morning, putting the stuff that's too big in the goodwill pile which is always motivational. The too small pile is definitely shrinking so I may have to cruise a few more clearance racks to make sure I still have a few things to wear while I'm still a work in progress. I have shin splints from the hike this weekend so I'm not running today but am going to make up for it with a flurry of gardening activity to get ready for a bridal shower we'll be throwing for my buddy in a few weeks.

What's new with you guys?

Hi Ladies,

Wow, Lindy, you are really putting on the competition!! Dang girl, two pounds and it's not even Sunday! Ok, you have now officially fired me up......LOL. I hope today is awesome, and fun for you. I know you look smoken hot - probably stopped him in his tracks! LOL

Burgund, you too have really put the competition on! I know your on my tail and I have got to start moving! FAST! Hey, why not have alittle of the barbecue and desert tonight? LOL.....

AJ, How's the packing coming? How soon to you move? I didn't realize you were doing the 30DS too! Awesome!

Dance, I know you love the feeling of adding to the Goodwill pile! LOL........and of course lessening the too small pile. Don't be too hard on yourself with the cheese and crackers. We all need a 'snack' day here or there, as it is a lifestyle change, not a diet. Hope your day is good and remember, you can always come to my house and clean out too! LOL.....

Ok, No workout today, but I went to bed late after spending the day with Alina and slept in - big time. I hate sleeping in, but I guess my body needed it. Anyway, I plan on either walking/jogging later or swimming laps. My husband woke up sick with a sore throat and small fever so PRAY I don't get it.

Kinda slow in here today.

Dance-at least you know when to stop with the crackers. Its only Tuesday, I am sure you will have a loss by sunday

Mygrits-Hope you dont get sick too. What did you decide to do, jog or swim? I did 30 ds but hope to get something else in today. We will probably play volleyball at the BBQ.

So, I am doing everything right, didn't even cheat this weekend, which is saying alot since weekends are always tough for me. But yet I still am up a pound as of this morning and it just can't be right. I have stayed at 1200 or below (only below twice) calories every day since last wednesday which is always the calorie amount I aim for when I am hard core dieting. This is how it went:

Wed - 295.6
Thurs - 292
Fri - 289.6 (I know these two big drops had to be water weight from my honeymoon)
Sat - 290
Sun 290.6
Mon - 290.4
Tues - 290.6

What gives?? I am at a calorie deficit of like 1200 cals not including exercise. So I guess I am in the same boat Lindy was in last week and the scale is just not reflecting what is actually going on...i hope MY 2 lb drop day comes soon.

Dance, I think you asked what my diet plan is, and I just count calories. Usually I aim for 1200 during the week because it is so easy to while I am sitting at work all day. Then on weekends I just try to eat in moderation because we're always having friends over or going out with friends or going out to eat with my Mom. So, eating out I can't exactly count calories so I just try to be "good".

Burgandy I hope you have blast on your vaca and I bet it will be fun to suprise your friend!

Lindy, I hope things went well today with mr. 16

Mygrits, I wish I could have slept in today! Me and the sleep fairy have not been good friends since I moved into my new house. I get up early on Saturdays now to get all the cleaning done. That used to be my sleep in day. Then on top of that, I have been having these nights where I wake up 5-6 times throughout and feel like the night must be almost over and look at the clock and its like 1am or 2 am, with like hour increments in waking up. I used to (at my apartment on the old mattress) sleep like a rock and not wake up once and the morning would come super quick. So, I guess I need to figure out it it's the new mattress or the new house. Although I'm not sure how I could figure out if it's the mattress since we threw away the old one.

Staccie, you're my hero...I just can't handle that long of workdays. My first real tax season of 10-12 hour days almost killed me...well that's a bit dramatic, but it was super stressful and I remember feeling like I NEVER had me time. So double kudos to you for MAKING you time. My house was soooo messy during tax season, becuase my days were so mentally exhausting I felt like I had to come home and veg out in front of the TV. Sure didn't win any weigh loss awards those couple months.

Here's to hoping for a loss tomorrow.

Hey Tiff - Your doing great and you will drop. Is Tom coming? Second, are you drinking alot of water? Other than that it could just be your body 'holding on' thinking it's starving, but it will adjust - be patient! Your doing fantastic and to lose what you have lost is fantastic! Tiff your down 5 lbs in a week! WOO HOO!

Burgund - Wow, I am feeling lazy just reading your posts everyday! I am going upstairs and workout right now. Hey, you sure you don't want any treats at the BBQ? Come on......lol

Okay. I am not doing well. I don't know where my motivation went. I am still working out but my "diet" has gone to....

Do you guys have any favorite recipes that we could share. If every one emailed me one or two I would compile them and send it out for every one as one document.

I NEED fresh ideas. I also have just lost it so any advice or motivation would be great. In teh beginning I wanted my old clothes to fit. I wanted to make my hunsband shiver when I wore a little black dress again and now.... I feel like I don't care. I haven't gotten lazy with fitness. WHY FOOD??

Ugh. Sorry for the rant.

Tiff- 5lbs is fantastic and 1200-1300 seems a little low to me. Do you wourk out too?

Sandy- I have gotten no where but we have a little under a month so its okay. I still have to re-paint though. Not looking forward to that. Over all... I am trying to not be a packrat and get rid of most of what we have. I have too much stuff!

jes.owens2@gmail.com

Hi my friends,

Wish I could have logged on earlier today. I am unfortunately not feeling well. I woke up at 430 and felt super tired so fell back asleep with my gym pants on lol. Today I have been feeling kind of dizzy and when I stand up my face and lips are tingling - almost like vertigo...very strange. I have a doctor appointment tomorrow for something else so I will let her know. It's not the first time I've had it but it's been over a year now. Stress, blood pressure I don' t know but I am dead tired. And this is not good :( Anyone ever have this before?

Back to the gym tomorrow morning unless I feel more horrible. Yuck, I hate feeling bad.

Sorry I can't write more, I read everyone's updates - excited for you!!! Will try and check in tomorrow

Hey Chicks,
Sorry I haven't posted in a few days, I guess since the gym is out, as is my back, I really haven't had anything to post. No life event changes, just...the same. Blah. I'm still nursing a hurt back, have begun stretching to ease the pain. I was actually dressed and ready to go to the gym when it started aching again. I was going to suck it up and go, but thought I would be doing more damage than anything. I'll try again tomorrow.

Not sure if I will lose this week, I've had the TOM from **** and I'm trying to watch what I'm eating. Ended up having Culver's frozen custard Sunday night (craving chocolate). Had a small, where I would normally have a medium, that counts for something, right? Other than that, been eating Lean Cuisine for dinner and having a little larger lunch to keep me going and not snacking in the afternoon. We'll see how that works.

AJ: Sorry you're feeling frustrated...I've gone through motivation withdrawl as well. Perhaps becuase you're moving to a new place, the stress is getting to you eating wise? There has to be some kind of motivation for you...are your clothes feeling bigger, smaller clothes fitting right? I think once you get over this "hump" you will be back on track and giving us a run for our money in the challenge!

Lindy: Sorry for the tough time with your mom. I've gone through the same thing. I dated my hubby for 8 year before we were married and my mom actually compared Matt to my father (long story, but let's just say that is an incredibly harsh insult). Then, my MIL told me that she told Matt that he should date other people and not get so serious with me. Guess that worked out well for her, huh? Parents want what is best for us, but God knows they don't always have the right answer. Follow your heart, it will lead you where you need to go.

Burgundy: You are cruising...way to go! Level 3 on 30DS? WOW!! :cp:

Tiff: I'm almost thinking you are taking in too few calories, so your body is going to hold onto that weight. Have you been doing the 1200/day for awhile now? If you are working out/cleaning, etc. your body may be going into starvation mode. Just a thought. Also, I think the sleeping thing may have something to do with it, thought I read something about that not too long ago.

Staccie: You're cruising along as well. Not sure how you manage working so much and working out. Good for you!

Sandy: How exciting...I love weddings. Hope all goes well with the planning and Alina has her happily ever after! Hope you don't get what your hubby has...I hate when that happens.

Dancer: Your "slip up" is very minimal, just keep moving. The fact that you're shopping for smaller clothes has to make you feel good. I put on one of my favorite shirts today (that I spent 15 min ironing over the weekend) and it was too big. Like, way too big! I loved that shirt and my husband laughed at me because I was complained that my "fat clothes" weren't fitting anymore. Too funny! Oh well, even if the scale doesn't move, it seems like inches are still coming off.

Well, this post is enormous, so I'm going to stop. Have a great night!

Oh, AJ wanted recipes. I'll post them here in case anyone else is interested:

I have a really good turkey burger recipe I posted a long time ago, so here goes again:

1 lb. ground turkey
2 tbsp bread crumbs (this is a guesstimate, as I've never really measured)
1 egg white (or you can use the yolk, your choice)
salt/pepper
I put Montreal Steak seasoning in mine, it tastes sooo good
Grill as you would a normal burger. I eat these all the time.

Had this at work today (our cafe is pretty good)
Grilled chicken & veg pita
1 pita bread
boneless/skinless chix breast
grilled veggies: onions, eggplant, mushrooms, zuchini
no sauce, no mayo, etc. just had it with the chicken seasoned. very filling.

Dinner:
another chicken sandwich:
1 Arnold multigrain flatbread
Boneless/skinless chix
lettuce/tomato/light mayo
Lite cheese (I use colby jack)
Just had the sandwich and I was stuffed. Guess I'm getting used to smaller portions now.

To answer sandy's question, Tom was here since thurs/fri. I still haven't been able to figure out when/if it affects my weight loss. Like, I don't know if it makes me gain at the beginning or before or not at all. I guess I will have to tell myself that it made me gain a lb during the beginning of it, and then next month I will have to see what happens.

I have been making sure to drink TONS of water. I actually unintentionally haven't been drinking my usual 2-3 diet sodas a day cause we haven't had it in the house. Dangit, now I will probably crave it now that I mentioned it to my house.

AJ and Maddiesmom, yeah 1200 is always the level I aim for when I am on plan. I do allow for hungry days, and allow myself up to 1500 cals if I am especially hungry.

Maddiesmom, all those recipes sound DELICIOUS!

Tiff - I'm not an expert but 1200 sounds low to me too for your height and weight. Have you checked what the calculator on thedailyplate recommends to lose 2lbs a week (taking into account your age/ht/wt/activity level stats)? That's been a really helpful guideline for me. You might also be interested in calorie cycling (google it for lots of recommendations) - Lindy recommended it to me months ago and I've been doing it informally with pretty consistent results. Anyway, as grits mentioned 5lbs since last week is AMAZING!

Super tired tonight so apologies for not responding to all the new posts but I'll catch up tomorrow. Night all...

AJ - Whats up? You deserve to be healthy and feel good. I want you back on this! You need to sit back and refocus on why you were motivated just last week. Come on AJ, I need to back and charged up. I love reading your posts and what you have accomplished. I also love that your husband is there helping. Maybe ask him to help you get back on track.

Staccie - I am so sorry your not feeling well. I had vertigo years ago with the dizziness, which of course causes nausea. Mine was from fluid in my inner ear, which caused me to feel unbalanced or dizzy. They gave me Antivert (pill) which made me feel better, but tired (alot). Another thought could be hormones, which is my problem. When my hormones are really imbalanced I am dizzy and very tired. I bet that might be your problem. An Endocrinologist can help with that. Hope tomorrow is better.

Maddiesmom - Don't push it, let your body heal. You will get through this, and don't be down. You can still burn calories by just doing arm movements, or circle movements with your ankles, slow walking - anything light. I remember when a contestant injured their back on the show and they had them sit and just do their arms. They burned alot of calories and lost weight too! Stay positive and a treat now and then never hurt anyone! Yes, I better NOT get sick! I will be one ticked off momma! LOL......I am overdosing on vitamins today! LOL.........Bye the way, thank you for the recipes. I copied and pasted them into my Word Documents.

Tiff - 5 lbs is alot and there is good possibility your body is just trying to catch up. Be patient and if you stick to it until Sunday, I bet we will see you in the 180's!

Lindy - ?????????????????????? Well ????????????????????????

I am hungry, but I will wait till tomorrow morning to eat. However, I am hungry! Just wanted to add that. Nite!

Tiff- Try not to weigh yourself every day. That wasy you will pretty much always see a loss. you're doing awesome. 5lbs is amazing.

Maddiesmom- That sounds sooo good. Gotta try it.

Staccie- It sounds like you may be dehydrated or not eating enough or just generally stressed. You may have orthostatic hypotension.. meaning your blood pressure drops when you stand and you become dizzy and lightheaded. Make sure you're getting enough fluids.

AJ- I'll get back to you with a recipe. I'll think of a good one and send it to you. Just tired right now. I love your idea because I'm getting burnt out on the same ol same ol. I feel like I eat the same thing every single day.. probably because I do. haha

Tiff- you know better! Your on your TOM or just getting over it...whatever...thats almost an extra 5 pounds as is, so once its gone, like me...you will probably see the instant drop, common girl. Also, when you go strong...you go strong, maybe you should inch your way into it. You are so strict, to the point where you dont treat yourself which isnt good. Also, I think Dance is right, 1200 is pretty low. I know we do that to see fast results, I know I do. But Im surprised your not starving at the end of each day. Keep your head up girl...you CAN DO IT.


Maddiesmom- as always...thanks for the recipes, the turkey burgers are still a fav. in my book, sometimes I add avocado on top to change it up. Sorry to hear your still struggling with your back. Im out of commission on running right now and its really upsetting for me. I never in a million years thought I would be upset about not being able to run but I am. :( Anywya...I hope you start to feel better soon.

Mygrits - you and I have weather working against us so dont feel bad about your exercise routine. I mean, I have the gym membership but in Deland...theres not much out there and further more...that crap is expensive, lol.

Stacie -yeah, I agree with Neesy...it really does sound like the dehydration, at least, thats what it was for me when I experienced it. Nonetheless, keep us posted on what the doctor says.

OK....drum roll....Im sure you all have been waiting for this, lol...kidding:

My date with Mr. Sweet16 was AMAZING....A-M-A-Z-I-N-G. He showed up to my house with lillies, which is my favorite flower, which I told him on the very first time we met and hadnt mentioned it since...so...check...bonus brownie points. Then, even though I didnt want to introduce him to Gab (WAY TOO SOON), he brought her a cookie bouquet! What?! Who does this?! Wow....I wanted him to put a ring on my finger right then and there, lol. We went out for lunch and were planning on going miniature golfing but it started to storm, so we ended up going to Blockbuster renting a movie and hanging out at the house. Complete gentleman...so, it was just perfect. A perfect date. He is coming back tonight to take me to dinner and then its will probably be a few weeks before we see each other again because Gabriella is starting soccer and the days that he is usually off, Gabriella has practice. :( Oh well...if we can get through crazy schedules, then he is definately a keeper, we will see in time. I am on cloud 9..so this is what it feels like, lol.

Now...on the diet front. I did very well for food, I had a minor snafu last night but nothing Im stressing about. I had a grilled pork chop with 4 mini potatoes and 3 peanut butter cups. Not proud of it, but what can I do? I did do my Bodyworks class today and felt redeemed.

Well...Ill check in later.

Hi Ladies,

Staccie - I forgot about our Nurse on here, yes, Neesy is probably right about your dizziness. Hope the Dr. appt. goes good today and your feeling better.

Lindy - Wow, I like him. I love a guy who thinks of the children, and also remember little things mentioned, like Lillies. I am really happy yesterday went well.

Well, I went to bed hungry last night, but proud I didn't give in. I also did get a mini-workout in last night upstairs. I was going to go jogging this morning, but didn't against it since I had a small headache. I think I will do another mini-workout upstairs later today. I burn more calories with strength training it seems, so make stick to that more.

Hope today is good for everyone. I will check in a bit later.

Mygrits - AWESOME!!! You beat HUNGRY, woo-hoo, lol.

Not much to report on today, Im hungry but will go home and have a good lunch. Im kinda in the mood for breakfast so maybe Ill have egg whites and turkey bacon, thats one of my favs. Whats everyone else doing for luncy today?

It's still breakfast time here - raspberries and light peach yogurt - yum!

mygrits - you are my hero! I am so bad at that. Last night I ate almost a whole jar of pickles really late since I couldn't fall asleep. I'm going to try to be like you today!

I seem to be losing my energy/motivation a bit - right there with you, AJ! I think I need to try on my bathing suit in some really bright light or something to get me focused on what needs to happen! You guys have any tips for when you're feeling demotivated?

Uh-oh....noooooo....it seems my downfall last week has had a domino affect and I will not let this happen!

Hmmm...your motivation....dont you guys remember the skinny jeans you pulled out, or the smokin two piece? Common...seriously?! You guys got me through my hump and Im here to do the same. Do I have whoop out everyones BEFORE PICS (duh..duh..duh...duhhhhhhhh-think scary music, lol). Yep...Ill do it, dont make me report them, lol. You have both done significantly well, why sabotage yourself now? AJ - if its food that has you doom and gloom....then up the anty on your exercise and indulge a little, remember...calories in vs. calories out. We are all going to have our rough patches, just try to counter act it. And Dance...dance...the leader of the pack, the leader of my intervention, what has you down at this point? Food or exercise...ok, lets cover both:

FOOD - does it really taste that good after you stuff a whole pizza (or whatever your amo is)...no, you feel fat and bloated after. Think of one of your favorite heathy dishes and make it, or even treat yourself and go out and have someone else make it.

EXERCISE - ok, we ALL get in the rut of not wanting to exercise. Maybe now is the time to swtich it up; maybe some a little more "light", like Pilates or Yoga. How about bike riding? Point being is, dont give up!

YOU GIRLS CAN DO THIS!!! Do you really want to buy me that new balance ball Ive been wanting on November 1st...or oooh...maybe the heart rate monitor...oh, wait...even better...a pair of hot skinny jeans where I can flaunt it in your face via camera and post it! HAHAHAHA (think...evil laugh)...lol, NO - you dont. YOU WANT THE HOT SKINNY JEANS, YOU WANT THE NEW PILATES DVD, YOU WANT NEW HAND WEIGHTS....when you get to November 1st. So stop the pitty party for 1...or should I say 2, ahem...lol, and get with it.

Ok....now, back to our regular scheduled program (my Jillian alter ego has left the building, lol). Common chickadees...we can do this together. :hug:

Lindy - thanks for the pep talk! I haven't been doing anything horrible food wise - just eating on the upper end of the range the last two days (1800 cals) and all healthy stuff just more food than usual sort of out of boredom. I'm still exercising, just not running so far this week b/c of shinsplints from Sunday's hike. But you're right, I have to get in gear or the scale won't budge this week! I'm going to go to lunch at a place that does yummy chicken stirfry with veggies and brown rice so that I'm not starved come dinner time and I'm going to watch tv while on the rowing machine before dinner to try to kill the munchies.

AJ - you back in? : )

Dance - Whats up? I thought you were wanting to be in those size 8 clothes for Costa Rica? Don't tell me you want to pull out the 'big' clothes for the trip! No, No, No! Remember the hiking and how good you felt? Remember the healthy dinner you and your BF had? Come on.......just think if you slow down you won't lose, may gain and all that sweat was for nothing. Nadda!

AJ - You too. I know you want to feel good for the move, and be ready for the gym near your new home. New home and new you!

Doesn't everyone want to feel healthier, more energetic and just look sexy for the holidays? I DO!!

What movtivates me is wasting soooo many years feeling fat, uncomfortable, unsexy, insecure and just not living life. All those years 20+ not being active like I should have been with my kids and setting a good example. Now, at my age, those years of being overweight catch up and there are major health risks that I don't want to be subjected to. Only I can change my health. I am not allowing 'food' or 'emotional eating' to run my life anymore! The years I have left, I want to feel good about me. None of us now how long we have, so why not live the way you dream about?

Well, I'm at work, so I signed in to see how everyone is doing.

Lindy: The date sounds AMAZING! I kinda miss those early romantic days with my husband (we've been together 12 years, so that was gone a long time ago). And the fact he remembered Gab, quite impressive. And I loved your pep talk to AJ & Dancer...I think we all need tough love from time to time.

AJ: How are you doing? I know that food is getting best of you lately, but have you thought about throwing all that "bad for you" food out? I know it's hard, but since I stopped buying it and having it at the house, I don't miss it. No chips (except Baked Lays), no cookies, etc. It gets easier to say no...but I know the eating takes over your brain, but you need to find what is triggering it.

Dance: Eating in the upper range of calories might not be a bad thing, especially since you're doing so much hiking. I know that I started eating more calories when I was really into my work outs and I still lost weight. It's those nighttime cravings that are killing you, perhaps you can drink some crystal lite or something to help calm the cravings? Just a thought.

Sandy: I'm with ya sister! I've spent 30 years in this body and I'm ready for a change! I'm not only doing it for myself, but also for Madeline. I can't have her going through the same overweight, unhappy childhood I had. I grew up on a farm with a very controlling father who wouldn't let us do anything (including riding our bikes down the road. I mean, there's no traffic except tractors going by, so I was raised in a very sedentary lifestyle). I want Maddie to join sports, eat well, and the only way she's going to do that is to see mom and dad doing it. BTW: Did you get your mini workout in?

Well, as for me, here's what I've eaten so far today:
Breakfast: 1/2 cup blueberries with 1 lite yogurt and Bear Naked granola and water to drink
Lunch: Lemon Herb Chix Piccata (WW meal) with diet coke
Dinner: Turkey burgers! My fav, probably with a small salad

I'm really going to try and go to the gym tonight, even if I can't do the leg/back weights, I gotta go and get my arms, etc working again. It's been a rough week not working out and I'm afraid I'm going to start being lazy again if I don't go back.

Tiff-you will see that loss soon. I am sure TOM has a lot to do with it, you have lost a lot so far. And like everyone said, 5lbs this week is amazing. Hopefully the cravings for the diet soda doesnt come back.

AJ-come on girlie, you know you want this so bad so lets get back to it. Ask your husband for motivation. Cook a nice healthy meal together if you have the time. Get rid of "junk" food, buy some healthy alternatives. You can do this

Staccie-hope the dizziness is taken care of at the doctors, my mom was like that last month, it was vertigo and her BP was sky high. Try to take it easy.

Maddiesmom-sorry to hear your back is still giving you problems. I was probably a good idea to skip the gym, just keep eating well and go back to working out when you feel you wont make it worse. Take it slow if you do go to the gym tonight, start out light.

Lindy-Mr 16 pack sounds wonderful. Glad you had such a great time.

Sandy-good job not eating at night, its hard, but it will get easier. Your pep talk was so inspiring. I know I want to be smokin around the holidays. I may not be at goal, but I can be closer than I am now. I am not giving up, ever!!!


Dance-you can not lose your motivation, you are such a motivator yourself for all of us. Try on that bathing suit and you will see you are already a hottie.

I had a good night last night, the BBQ was fun. I did have some potato salad, but I had enough calories for what I had. There was no dessert, thats always good. We ended up going to the bar, I havent been to a bar in years. I didnt drink, I was the DD. It was still fun to go and hang out with family. There was a little drama, but when isnt there with drunk people. Didnt get home til 4 in the morning so I am pretty tired today. I am going to wait til a little later this afternoon to do my workout. I will do it though. Only 2 days til I leave, gotta get another lb off. Have a great day ladies. I will check in later.

Hi ladies - busy board! Thanks for the notes about my issue - Neesy - I am thinking that might be it too - more water - I've drank two large containers already today. I am still a bit lightheaded but I also took a few sudafed today because I thought it might be ear fluid build-up - I have a lot of problems with that - and I am feeling better. I also got a great deal of sleep last night - went to bed at 11 and slept until 630 - and had a very nice relaxing bath until 7:00AM - I didn't work out because I felt sleep was more important but I am taking tonight off work so I can get in a nice walk outside! Things are crazy here - I can't even explain - we starting building ice for our event (it's ice hockey lol for all you Florida girls - wink) in 4 days and so many things keep popping up, it's crazy. Anyway, it's what I do and I can't wait for it to get here.

AJ - cheer, cheer, cheer - :cheer: - you can do it - if anything all the wonderful things everyone is writing on here should help you out!

Tiff - so agree with Dance, way too low. I went through this when I lost a ton of weight the first time and it stalled me in a major way. There are tons of online sources for you to use. At the least you should be around 1800. But I am no expert either so check out the sources :) Everytime I see your avatar I think it looks so gorgeous - your dress and you!

Yeah Lindy - sounds amazing and you so deserve it - I am so happy for you!

Sandy - good on you for not giving in last night - feels so good when we can make a decision like that - but do you ever find that if you go to bed truly hungry that you have weird dreams? That happens to me all the time - it's crazy. I don't dream about food but other weird stuff I don't usually dream about!

Burgandy - sounds like you had a fun night - and oh yeah the drunk drama - not always fun to watch as a spectator!

Vicky - good luck at getting some exercise in tonight, I bet you are just itching to get back at it!!!

Everyone - great motivation and reminder comments - especially you Lindy! It 's always good to recenter ourselves once in awhile.

Well I have to eat, drink some more water and get back to things...sigh! I have a chicken sandwich, a fat free jello for lunch. I seriously need to get to the grocery store tonight!!

Check in later!

Burgundy - sounds like you had some fun last night. Its rare but when we have a night out of drinking, we just call a cab and everyone crashes at one persons place (most of the time), it kinda sucks being the designated driver when everyone else around you is gone...long gone, lol. Half the time Im like "what, whats everyone laughing at"...idk, just funny. Anyway...your doign so good with staying on point for your trip...you have to go to Chinatown and get something cute. So cheap..knock offs of course, but its still a fun experience.

Stacie - lol, your too funny with your ice rink...us Florida girls wouldnt know what that is. lol. Im actually from Connecticut so I grew up in the cold, I would LOVE to move back but cant imagine not sunbathing 10 months our of the year...but you as a Canadian girl wouldnt know what thats like...lol, Im just kidding. Your doing so well with your diet. How are you feeling these days? You seem to be handling your stress so well. Im glad to see you happy, your quite an ammusing poster, I always enjoy your posts, so glad to have you on the up and up. Oh - and sleep is more important sometimes, to a certain extent. It even says that in all the fitness books and magazines I read.

Anyway...this is my last post today. Mr. Sweet 16 is taking me to dinner...woo-hoo, 2 dates in 2 days, Im so excited, but then we dont see each other for 2 weeks, oh well...Ill take it. Its more my schedule that is an issue than his. Have a good night. Good luck with the late nite munchies...you can get through them!

You girls are just the best, I swear!

Lindy - where in CT are you from? We used to live in Fairfield County ages ago. Have fun with Mr 16 - sounds like he was super sweet and thoughtful yesterday. Where are you guys going for dinner?

Staccie - an old friend of mine always used to get dizzy and nauseous everytime she got congested with a cold so you may be on to something with your sudafed and water to flush out your system - hope it's helping. Lindy's absolutely right - you crack me up all the time - we're lucky to have you here, especially since you're so swamped at work. Aren't bubble baths the best? I take them all the time (even in summer, just lower the temp) as a way to avoid evening snacking (hard to reach the fridge from the tub).

Burgundy - you are too funny! I mentioned the bathing suit since I knew it would make me cringe, NOT feel like a hottie : ) What are you going to be up to on your NY trip? Visiting your buddy, I'm sure, but anything else? I've lived in NY a couple of times, after college and after grad school. Such a fun city!! Grab the Time Out NY weekly magazine to get really up to date listings on museums, galleries, shows, etc. Loved the designated driver story - sounds like you did great foodwise - way to go! By the way, you have been an awesome cheerleader for everyone on the board lately - I've really been noticing how share lots of positive energy!

maddiesmom - good idea! I'm going to pick up a bunch of crystal light popsicles at the grocery store on the way home as they usually fend off the munchies and make me feel like I'm having a treat. I've been out for a while so maybe that's part of the problem! Sounds like you are eating right on plan - good for you!

mygrits - you crack me up! Oh no, not the 'BIG' clothes!! Too funny! Okay, okay - consider me back on the wagon. I think part of it was doing a little clearance shopping yesterday and still really not liking what I saw in the mirror and thinking if I still look like this after losing a bunch of the weight, maybe it's hopeless which I know isn't helpful : ( I am back on plan though and will run intervals in the morning to get this sluggish metabolism of mine revved back up! I love reading about what motivates you - very eloquent! How's the wedding planning going? What are you going to wear?


My friend who's getting married soon (the one I need to wear the bridesmaid's dress for) is having her bachelorette party on the 29th - yikes! I haven't been out drinking in forever, probably since before I met my bf 7 yrs ago. Anyone know what you wear to one of these? (I sound obsessed with clothes with all of these what to wear/what are you wearing questions, don't I?) I feel way to old to be doing this!! : )

Okay - controversial topic for the day, maybe - but I can't find actual evidence anywhere that drinking a ton of water does anything for you particularly, unless you were majorly dehydrated to begin with. I'm just not a fan of drinking water plain (unless I'm super thirsty) so I've been looking for stuff to convince me and I'm not really finding it. Of course, avoiding sugary sodas or even fruit juices or other calorie-loaded drinks is clearly necessary but what horrible things am I doing to myself if I'd rather drink a big thing of crystal light than plain water? I'm not trying to mess up anyone who has a system that works for them of course - just looking for arguments to help me make decisions. I drink coffee first thing in the morning, green tea at the office during the day, and crystal light or caffeine free diet sodas in the evenings and have been all along.

Gotta get back to work but curious to hear what you guys have to say...

Hi Ladies,

Maddiesmom - Yes, I did get my mini workout in last night. I could have done more, but atleast I did something.

Lindy - Wow, 2 nights in a row! I am impressed. I hope your evening is awesome...........well, not tooo awesome yet! LOL.......;)

Staccie - So glad your feeling a 'tad' better. If it is the inner ear, I remember having that and it is just a weird feeling. Hope it is all cleared up soon. Oh, and what a lucky gal you are "Hocky Players" Woo Hoo! LOL.........

Dance - It is funny but I too am invited to a Bachelorette Party - my daughters. My first thought was that I am just too old for this......ugh! I am still debating, but know she may be persistant. They wanted me at my daughter-in-laws too......and it was fun, but after a couple of hours I was so ready to go home. If I go, I will merely where a pair of jeans and nice top........oh wait, it is soo hot here, maybe not. Oh, and drinking......totally not into it, so I may have one Margarita, but that would be it. Regarding water versus flavored drinks, even if it is Crystal Lite. I read somewhere a couple of years ago, that your body treats flavored waters like food, and it doesn't treat it like 'water.' I don't know, but when I read the whole article (can't remember it to write it hear) it made total sense. I only drink water, and one Zoe Life (vitamins) in water, and hot tea. About twice a week I will have a glass of skim milk. I don't do soda, juices, or an other flavored drinks.

No workout today, but I am going up in 20 minutes and do a mini workout like last night. My food has been good, but was more hungry today than yesterday.

I will check in later.

Hey girls. I did 4 miles on the treadmill today and my toes are killing me! I need new shoes. Ugh. Then I had to come home and walk the dogs forever.. I think next time I will just walk them around this outdoor track by my house and kill two birds with one stone.

Anyway, I'm really not liking my city any longer and I can't wait to move. I think I will definitely move to baltimore once my husband goes to training after basic. People here are so "on edge" all the time and they constantly aggravate and test you. For example, I'm driving up a very busy street. This guy just starts walking SLOWLY out into the street on a green light meanwhile looking right at the cars as if to say.. ."what you gonna do." I hate cincinnati so badly. Sorry for going out on a tangent.. but I think this place stresses me out which in turn makes me want to eat.

But I haven't. I've been good. I tried on my "skinny jeans" today and they go all the way up but I still need to lose maybe 15-20lbs before they fit comfortably. So I think I will wear them to my hubby's graduation. It's an incentive. I haven't worn them since 2003 (18yrs old). WOW.. I feel like I'm getting old. Time flies.

Oh.. and I can't stand drinking water plain either. Unless I'm working out. Otherwise I drink crystal light lemonade or diet pop. I tried to stop drinking the diet pop.. but I got this migraine that wouldn't go away and felt shaky. I have to wean myself off the caffeine. I'm an addict.

Okay. Lots to catch up on and to catch you up on.

Sandy- You are so cute! Thank you so much for all of your kind words and the theoretical kick in the A$$!

Lindy- Although I still want to win, I still hope you get your new stuff and strut your stuff if your favorite skinny jeans.

Dance- You are the last person I expected to feel that way. I think of you as SO strong. It actually made me feel good to know I wasn't alone. You really are great at motivating us all.

Vicky- I am doing okay. I really beat my self up for a few days so I am emotionally recovering. I will NOT be buying that junk again. Its so old anyways that it was chewy. Gross.

Burgundy- Thank you! He has really stepped up and listened to me for the last 24 hours. He is trying to the best of his ability to motivate with out offending me.

Staccie- You are so sweet. I needed a cheer leader. Now I have lots =)

Neesy- I have about the same before I fit into my favorite skinnies. I miss them so much. I try them on almost every day. lol. BTW your new pic is gorgeous. I LOVE IT!!!

Update on me: I am back on plan but barely. I cooked an awesome healthy crustless quiche with veggies for dinner but I ate half the pie. haha. I am trying. I sm over compensating by working out A LOT!

I talked to another over weight friend today and really got into it. I even cried. I never cry!! I get like this during diets because I am not sure what my goal and motivations are anymore. I wonder... would I rather be fat and really satisfied with all the awesome foods and smells and every thing I get to eat. Or would I rather be skinny and happy but deprive myself from most of the things that I really really love. (Example: Olive Garden, Mexican food smothered in green chillies and cheese, Chinese food galore or thai noodles) My brain says that this should be easy. Skinny right? Well... Idk. I could go on for hours.

I am back on plan. I am going to start eating all of the food on my diet instead of just what I feel like and I will push through this. I have posted a Why are you eating? sign on my fridge and I will see what I find in the next few days.

I REALLY L-O-V-E you all! I never thought I would say that in a forum or to almost strangers but I need you. More than you know! Thank you.

Neesy - Adorable picture! I have to ask, what's in Baltimore? Is that where your from, or do you have family there, or do you just want to go there? LOL......... I am really proud of your accomplishments, and the 4 miles, wow, that is totally impressive! I don't think I have ever gone that far. The most I did was 3 miles, which I thought would kill me. Thats awesome about getting the skinny jeans on. I need to try mine on too. LOL...... Hey now I can't have you get to far ahead of me!! Slow down!

AJ - Whats up girl! So glad you are making a U-Turn on being focused. I know it's hard, but it is so worth it. I don't want you to look at this as being deprived from the foods you love. You can still have them, but you need to learn to make them the 'healthy way.' They are not bad for you, but when you eat Fast Food, or Restaurant Foods, they are loaded with sodium and preservatives. If you can start having fun cooking, you can re-invent those same foods you love, but make them without all the sodiums and less fat. They will taste great too! Like Olive Garden, well thats Italian. You can have Lasagna, Spaghetti, Pizza and others foods, but make them with whole grain pasta, 2% cheeses, and tomato sauce it really good for you, just use the low sodium kind. Also use whole grain breads in place of white. Chinese food is healthy too, if made from home. The restaurant Chinese foods are outrageous on the sodium. However, noodles, veggies, stir fry meats and chicken with some great spices, is awesome at home. Just some thoughts for you! Many of these I make, I just go online in Google and put in something like "healthy recipes for lasagna"............Hope this helps!

Today food wise was OK, but yes I am hungry right now and my husband is eating a McDonalds hamburger next to me........Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr rrrrr I will be good! Dang It! LOL.............

Staccie-sounds like you caught up on some sleep. I need to do that. I think I could have slept all day today. About being a spectator, that is always me, not a drinker, so it wasnt too different than hanging out with all of them any other time. Drunk people can be quite amusing.

Lindy-we were gonna crash at my husbands cousins, but he was in such a bad mood cos he was tired so he went to car and passed out. Then he thought we locked him in there and he said he was trying to figure out how to get out of the car for 2 hours, it was funny. So he was in a mood so we came home at 4 in the morning. I'm not going to NYC(we might make a day trip there, not sure, there or woodstock) but I would love to find some knock off handbags. I have so many purses though. Hope you had a good time on your date.

Dance-not too sure what we are going to be doing yet. My friends mom is the "entertainment committee", so hopefully she finds something fun and interesting to do. Thank you for your kind words, and you are always an inspiration to me and I am sure to everyone else here. And I just drink plain water, so I dont have anything to add to that topic, sorry.

Sandy-what are your mini workouts?? Just curious

Neesy-4 miles, wow. I need to build back up to doing that many. I walk with my sister in law and she is ready to turn around way before I am. I guess I will have to go twice a day, once with and once without her.

AJ-so glad to hear you are back on plan. Your dinner sounds yummy. The sign on the fridge is a good idea. I may have to do that if I feel a binge coming on. We love you too, glad you joined us.

Today, I just felt totally drained. I cleaned a little and went on my walk. I didnt get in my 30ds, but I will tomorrow. My knee has been hurting today and TOM showed up. Why now, 2 days before my trip, I just knew it would happen. I have some packing to do tomorrow. After tomorrow, I dont know how often I will be on here the rest of the week. I am gonna get so far behind again. Oh well. I am gonna try to sleep now, Have a good night everyone.

AJ-Thanks=) We will fit in them perfectly at the end of this. Maybe even a smaller size.

Grits-Thank you. My husband will be in AIT in MD. Baltimore is close to where he will be.

Dancer- It's good to have a buddy.. but yeah if you feel like you can do more and have time.. you should. But.. I can't do 4 every day or anything.. I just was bored today and had to work out my stress.

Morning, ladies!

Neesy - love the new avatar pic! Awesome cheekbones : ) Both you and Lindy have so much 'tude in your pix - it's great! Nice to have someone else around who's addicted to diet soda : ) On the running shoe issue, since toes seem to slam against the front of the shoe when we run, try to make sure you have some wiggle room at the very tip of your next pair of shoes. That should help a bit : )

Burgundy - have a wonderful time on your trip if we don't get to talk to you before you leave!

AJ - So glad you're back in the game! Love you mini goal for the week - I might have to try something similar on my bf. What movie do you have in mind? I haven't been to see hardly any movies in the theater this summer for some reason - nothing that appealed, I guess.

mygrits - too funny on the bachelorette party thing - I think your strategy of leaving after a few hours is a good one!

Still at 174 after a couple of days of eating more than usual so I'm feeling lucky! Heading out for a run to see if I can lose another pound this week and get another dancing carrot!!

Hey Chickadees!

Ok, first -

Neesy-LOVE...love...love the pic. Wow, it really shows that you have lost weight, great cheek bones is right! Im jealous! Incorporating your dog walk is great, I cant do that because my dogs are fat and lazy and hold me back, lol.

Dance - I know where Fairfield is...thats where my family lives! Haha, small world. I am from Stratford, small city next to slummy Bridgeport (god...I hope you dont know anyone that lives there, lol...if so, please remove foot from my mouth...NOW, lol). Anyway, I hear what your saying about being extra hungry, thats kinda the same boat Ive been in. I have controlled it quite weel and am very proud of myself but I know a pushing point will come. Oh...and fingers crossed on your dancing carrot, lol.

Mygrits - PLEASE tell me you didnt give into McDonalds! I know you didnt...right? Gosh, that is so freakin hard, I can pass it by with no problem but when other people eat it next to me, ugh...thats the kicker. McDonalds is not a favorite of mine at all (except for their breakfast)...but BurgerKing, now thats another story. God how I love that Angry Whopper.

AJ- NO...let me reinforce you on this...food is not more important. There are plenty of yummy, delicious foods that are healthy. Furthermore, you can have your mexican, your olive garden, etc...just in moderation. It should be a treat, not an everyday thing. An indulgence. Dont you feel better when you look at yourself in the mirror and are looking skinny, when other girls look at you in envy? Lord knows I do. And its a **** of a lot better feeling than after stuffing my face at Olive Garden with garlic bread and braised beef tortelloni, lol. Furthermore, when your thinner and healthier you can do so much more in regards to fun activities, like hiking, or what not...ya know? THink of all those positives. Oh...and might I make a suggestion...put your most horrible "FAT PIC" on your refrigerator door. I did that and it was a good reminder to detour from what I might have had.

Ok...here I go. Work is really stressful today, I told you guys how my boss got a promotion and well, he's all over the place and is missing pieces when he's telling me what to do, so it looks like Im losing it, but I know Im not. Ill get over the hump, I just need to sit down with him and work through it. As far as the date last night...AMAZING, again. Dinner at this beautiful restaurant, then a walk around Lake Eola and yes Myygrits, things are going well...nut not "TOO WELL", if you get what I mean. Slow and steady wins the race in the relationships too, lol. Im having a severe sushi craving, so I might give in and make this my cheat day. Aside from that, not too much else going on. Ill check in later.

Sandy- Thank you so much. You are awesome. I am glad you were strong last night. McDonalds is SO not worth it.

Burgundy- <3 I hope you got a great night sleep and that you feel a little bit better today.

Dancer- I want to see Julie & Julia and my husband has resited like no other. We never go to the theater and he always says its a waste of money so now he can not say anything! I also want to see the time travelers wife.

Lindy- I love that idea! I will have to find my worst pic. And your right. I know your right but sometimes my addiction to food gets the best of me. I want to have it once a year and look fabulous. Not every day and look flabby. Thank you!

Today is say one of my new mini goal so as I sit here with a glass of water and grapes I feel good and re-motivated. I am sorry about your work. I hope that you can get a handle on him. Sushi is my weakness too! Maybe Mr. perfect can take you???

Dance-great job still being at 174 and we all know you will get that carrot:carrot: before sunday.

Lindy-hope wrok doesnt get to stressful for you. Sounds like things are going smoothly with Mr 16.

AJ-I like your mini goal. I should try that one with my husband. You are going to do amazing this week.

I got on the scale this morning and it said 216.2!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy about that. That is 2 lbs this week. I am gonna update my ticker in the morning before I leave. I have to stay on plan on my trip too. I do not want to gain. I will check in later, just had to share.

Hi Ladies,

LOL, first, no I didn't give into McDonalds, but it was tough. I am not a big fan of their food (used to be), however to smell the aroma in the air - KILLER. Last night I had attitude after 12am. I went to bed, because I wanted to get up and workout (you know before the heatwave), well my husband was up on the computer (bright light), and the kids were upstairs with the TV going..............Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.....I was pissed. I got up at 1:30 and went to the couch......Grrrrrrrr....came back to bed and got up again at 2:30 pissed and went upstairs to my daughters room to sleep. I hate it when you want to sleep and everyone is still up! So needless to say I didn't work out. I was up at 7:30am (potty break), but said 'heck no' and went back to bed until 12pm..... I must say my husband was trying to be quiet and offered to go to the livingroom, but he looked comfy and I didn't want him to have to do that. OK, done venting.

Lindy - Hmmm I remember walks around Lake Eola........lol.......must have been nice. I hope today is better for you, and the Boss 'regroups'.

Burgund - Congratulations Burgund! Awesome - you are on my ARSE! LOL..My mini workouts are really mini......lol. Sometimes I climb up and down our stairs 10 times - just to get my heart rate up. I then have one of those big workout balls and will do, 20 pushups, 20 crunches, 20 butt up (legs on ball, back on floor and push up back & butt), and 20 leg lifts each. All of this takes no more than 30 mins. (if that). It is quick, but does get my heart rate up and burns calories. If I don't workout during the day, I do this and in the early evening. I don't eat in the evening so it seems to keep my body burning calories throughout the night. Oh, plus I don't sweat alot......lol.

Well, I will check in later - hope everyone has an awesome day!

mygrits - bummer about your bad night's sleep!

burgundy - love the new picture! Woohoo on the 2lbs this week - you are going to look awesome in the pictures on your trip!

AJ - I just know your poor husband is headed to a chick flick soon! : )

NSV for me today - 4 miles in 48 minutes! I used to run 15min miles when I started this whole weight loss thing so it's nice to be getting faster : )

Hi everyone - well the doctor said two things - the first is my blood pressure is very low - better than high but still a problem. He said to drink more water but not too much or it would thin out my blood and make the problem worse. Second is possibly a viral infection. I said it was my ears and they feel full but he said they look fine. I've had tons of problems with my ears and tests have shown nothing. Anyway, I am very tired - my energy level is at a bare mimimum - I would compare myself to a dimly lit christmas bulb instead of a 40watt lightbulb :) I am sleeping but waking up a lot. I am really going to try and workout tomorrow morning just for a bit - it's been three days now and I am feeling worse I think because of it. The food is pretty good, not eating enough so I am monitoring it more today.

Dance - I agree about nothing really certifing that drinking more water is good for you other than that is just what everyone says. I know I feel dehydrated if I don't and get headaches and stuff, but then if I drink too much I am bloated and get headaches - so I can't win. I drink Crystal light sometimes too and the occassional coke zero - particularly if I am sweating a lot. I am most thirsty after I drink my protein shake in the morning :)

Sandy - the party will be fun, I've been to some wild ones in the past - nothing like getting a bunch of women together when the common show-ups are blow up dolls, phalic straws and other misc items - or maybe that's just at the ones I go to - ummm I am seeing a theme here!

Neesy - great pic - love the glasses! I am planning on buying some new ones this weekend so I stop wearing my contacts all the time! Yeah on the skinny jeans - that is more important and rewarding (for me anyway) than any old scale number! Especially since you can lose inches without it showing on the scale! And when I try and wean myself off coke zero I have headaches and real grumpy. I've done it and after about 5 days it's ok. But at work there is a coke machine right outside my workspace and it hums all day and it pulls me in - more I think I drink it for something cold, fizzy and different than water. Oh and new shoes - I bought some last week and it made a huge difference - I actually talked to someone who knew what they were selling too - it helps!

AJ - like the sign! I used to have a pig that everytime I opened the fridge it snorted - half the time I just got peed off and either shut the door or threw it in the garbage (only to rescue it later). It worked for me but was embarassing when I had people over lol. And I can relate to you feeling like you are about the constant fight. But I think maybe it's a fight about changing our habits and when we get there it's not easy to maintain but we've educated ourselves about it - but for some people it's a lifelong battle to stay healthy and fit - I hope someday we all find it and able to hang on for dear life :)

Burgandy - TOM IS AN ARSEHOLE! He comes at the most stupid times! But I hope you have a great trip - I am so jealous! What are you doing to do while you are there? Nice pic too!!

Lindy - you sound so happy and that's so great (other than the work thing) but you definitely have lots of happy stuff to balance it out with!

Well I have to go to lunch - it's a potluck today - GREAT :( anyway I have a headache and not too energetic so it's an effort to each arsey food anyway!

THanks ladies for giving me a reason to a) get away from work for a bit, b) get motivated, c) feel motivated, d) share ideas, frustrations and successes and e) for just being the amazing women you are!!

S

AJ - a friend of mine used to broil halibut and serve it with a homemade salsa of pineapple, jalapenos, purple onion and mango chunks.

Staccie - glad you're getting help from the doctor - was he impressed with your weight loss efforts? Hope so! Sorry to hear about your not sleeping well - that's such a bummer. I had something similar a few weeks ago and luckily it just went away on its own so fingers crossed for that to happen to you!

Bf's coming over for dinner tonight and am fixing grilled salmon and grilled veggies (adding asparagus and eggplant this time) so I'm back on plan big time! Thanks again for all your encouragement yesterday! : )

Just got back from the gym.. and I'm dumb. I wore the same shoes from yesterday. I am definitely buying a new pair. My pinkie toes have huge blisters now. I think I will give my feet time to heal and do some living room workouts for a while.

I really wish I ate fish. It would give me sooo many more options. I just can't do it though... don't like the taste or the idea of it. I'm a weirdo like that. I can't even eat chicken on the bone. Sundays weigh in is fast approaching again. I can't wait to get under 200. I have decided that I will treat myself once I hit 199.. with a new haircut and massage.

Neesy- I can't eat anything on a bone. And I don't eat ground meat so you don't sound strange to me at all. I think it is disgusting. And good for you for rewarding yourself!

Hey Ladies,

Neesy - I love your 199 plan and I think I might do the same! Sorry about your toe blisters, and hope they mend quickly.

AJ - That Salsa Dance mentioned is awesome. I find it (Lindy told me about it) in the Deli section of the grocery store.

Dance - Awesome about your 4 miles! That is tremendous. I can't run 1!! LOL. Hope your dinner tonight is fun and cozy.

Well, today was horrible. I won't go into details, as that will just stir up emotions, but it really sucked. I am going to bed early, as I just mentally can't deal with anything else. I hope you all have a great evening. I will check in tomorrow.

Awwwwe Sandy!!! I am so sorry. :hug:
I hope a good night sleep helps and a new day will bring good things. I know you have been going through a ton and I am so sorry. ***HUGE HUGS***

Sandy-sorry you had such a bad nights sleep and such a bad day. Hopefully tonight and tomorrow will be better for you.

Dance-4 miles in 48 minutes, wow. I need to start running with the rest of you. Your dinner sounds yummy, hope you have a good night

Staccie-hope you get to feeling better and get that BP up. Not too sure what all we will be doing on my trip. She doesnt know I am coming so cant really plan anything yet.

Neesy-go get those new shoes girl. Give your feet a rest day and hopefully the blisters go away. I love your 199 treat too, you deserve it.

I got my workout in today and all my last minute shopping. I still need to download some songs for my mp3 player, then I will be ready. I am gonna weigh in 2 days early. I am hoping to still be at 216 tomorrow. Have a great night girls

Morning, all! Up super early today - yikes!

mygrits - hang in there, sweetie! Hope today is better. Come and vent here whenever you need to!

neesy - Ouch! your poor feet! love the idea of a nurse being squeamish about fish! Too funny - not even tunafish sandwiches? Staccie and I couldn't live without our tuna subs : )

burgundy - bon voyage!

this morning is going to take lots of coffee, I can tell. Just weighed myself and finally got that extra carrot - small happy dance!

Good morning ladies. I am up and ready to go. I weighed this morning and I am still at 216, yay!!!!!!! So thats 2 lbs for me this week and 6 lbs since the start of our challenge. I hope everyone has a fun week. Oh yea, I got another sun. I am excited about my weight loss and excited to go on my trip. Talk to you all soon.

Morning Ladies,
Great Job to Burgundy and Dancer on their weight loss!! Great accomplishments!

Haven't posted in a few days, but I have some news....I went back to the gym! Yep, Wednesday night, I couldn't stand it anymore (even though my back was still a little sore). So, I went and warmed up and then did my normal strength training workout, I know, I know I shoulda taken it slow, but I didn't. My back actually stopped hurting after my workout. I think the stretching and lifting actually helped. I'm still sore here and there, but overall, feeling good. I'm going back tonight to do cardio.

Sandy: Sorry things are so rough for you right now. We're here for you whenever you need to vent. Just know that we're thinking about you.

AJ: Glad you're getting back on track. YOU CAN DO THIS!!!

Neesy: Sorry your hometown is getting to you. I hope your feet feel better soon too! Poor thing. It's the worst when you hurt your feet, I wear heels all day (business professional everyday) and when I get home, I think I want to cut my toes off so I'm not in pain. Not fun...especially when you want to work out.

Gotta get back to work, I'll catch up with everyone else later.

maddiesmom - you exercise addict, you! So glad the workout went well but taking it a bit on the easy side is probably not the worst idea : )

Burgundy - can't wait to hear about your trip! And great job on your losses so far!!!

AJ - how goes day 2 of the on plan binge free week countdown?!?

Lindy - I'm assuming you're swamped at work - hope everything's okay!

Hi TLadies,

Thank you for all the hugs and well wishes. Yesterday was just bad, and I was so stressed I couldn't sleep. I was finally in bed by 3am and up at 7am. I did go ahead and get my workout in, as I figured it might help me relieve some tension - which it did. Today has been better - not great by any means, but better. Again, thank you for your thoughts.

Where's Lindy??????????? Hmmmmmmm

Burgund - I hope your trip is fine and HUGE congrates on the weight loss. You are doing awesome!

Dance - You too - congratulations on your carrot......lol. I am do proud of you and also your running is just impressive.

Maddiesmom - Well you are one tough chickie! I am so glad your back at the gym, because I know moving around makes us feel more productive. I hope today was good and your not too sore.

AJ - So happy your feeling better and refocused on your health. Thank you again for the hugs.

Neesy - I hope your toes feel better today and work isn't causing them pain.

Tiff & Lindy - Hello!

I will check in later today.

Hey girls---yep, you guessed right...Im very swamped at work.

Burgundy and Dance - Awesome job on the weight shed. Dance, I know how exciting it is to add another icon, I cant wait to get to 180 to update mine.

Mygrits - how you holding up? Anything you want to talk about? Sorry things are going so rotten.

Maddiesmom- kudos on getting back into the saddle...try not to push yourself too hard.

Ok, quick update. Im sick...really under the weather, but doing good. Im really busy. Ill try to catch up later.

Lindy - <<waves of get well energy heading your way>> Sorry to hear you're not feeling well - that's especially tough when you're in crunchtime at work. Glad you'll be able to rest up a bit over the weekend, if Gabadoo cooperates that is : )

mygrits - that sounds like a super tough night but I'm SOOO impressed that you worked out anyway, after so little sleep. I officially nominate you as 'Weight Loss Buddies III' Hero of the Day!!! How can we help you get through this tough time?

Okay - I have only three weeks left until I need to wear that bridesmaid's dress so I'm going to try to get more disciplined about what I'm doing as I tend to get a bit wobbly over the weekend - no more posthike treats until after the wedding! We're using some of my hotel points to spend Sat night down in Colorado Springs to be closer to some different hikes and I've already figured out what restaurants we're going to.
Here's my plan through the weekend:
Today: Rest/recovery day, Fruit and yogurt for breakfast/chicken, brown rice, veggies and peanut sauce for lunch/gyro meat and salad for dinner

Sat: 1 hr run, fruit and yogurt for breakfast, chicken veggie chili over brown rice for lunch, trout and veggies for dinner

Sun: 3 hr hike, oatmeal and fruit for breakfast, ahi tuna salad for lunch, rotisserie chicken and veggies for dinner

What's everyone else have planned for the weekend?

Hi ladies!

Quiet the past few days - end of week blues and/or everyone is so busy getting ready for a weekend!

I'm feeling a bit better today other than a major headache but that is caused from looking at the budget all day lol. I kind of had a mini binge - ok not so mini last night and I've barely eaten today - I feel lethargic and lazy - but I am making myself get a sandwich and eat decent the rest of the day. I'm pretty stressed out right now. And the gym in out of the question but I am going for a walk tonight to at least get some exercise in. My body is crying out for some. Arggg! I feel so crappy - emotionally that is.

Dance- woo hoo for the carrot - that is a great incentive, I think I am going to do that!

Burgandy - yeah for the loss - woo hoo :cheer: :cheer:

Vicky - :cheer: for you too! I bet your body was like oh yeah....!!!!

Sandy - :hug:

Lindy - sorry you're swamped and sick - I know the feeling and it sucks arse!

I hope to get re-centered later today and find a way to deal with my issue, my stress and workload by still treating my body like the temple it deserves to be!! Will write more tonight - have to fun off to a meeting

S

Staccie - by my count, you deserve two dancing carrots (or other dancing icon of your choice) already! Good luck with the headache - a walk to de-stress sounds like a great idea!!

oh.. what a long day. My patients were soooo bad off. From the moment I walked in the door it just went down hill. They were very sick. But I made them better by the time I left=) One of my patients.. they suspect has the swine flu. Ofcourse! Just my luck.. Oh.. and they don't tell me until I'm in the room with him for an hour. Anyway.. My feet feel better. I wear crocs at work.. so my feet don't hurt at all even after 13hrs. The rest of my body.. is a different story. Plus I still feel sore from my workout yesterday. I figure I got a pretty good workout at work today. My heart was racing constantly because it was one thing after another. So thats the good in it.

I feel lighter today too. I haven't gotten any mail lately. I'm hoping for one soon with a return address. I write him everyday and my letters are starting to pile up here. haha...

I'll catch up more tomorrow. I can't believe its almost sunday again. Crazy!

Neesy - I just want to give you big hugs and a gold medal... :hug::bravo: Your daily routine and career overall says so much for the person you are. You should be so proud of yourself! I love my crocs they are sooo comfy. I do hope you get a letter soon and I know he will be in for a HUGE surprise when your mail arrives! LOL........Put them in number order on the envelope so he will know where to start! LOL.....

Dance - Thank you for the reward! Today was comparable to yesterday - maybe a tad better. It did kill me to go out this morning, but I know with the stress I am under right now, I need to keep the blood pumping. I love your meal planning - sounds yummy!

AJ - Hope your headache is better now - Its FRIDAY! I really hope you have a couple of days off to relax and start feeling good again.

Well, after my early workout, I haven't done anything today. It really whipped me out. I have eaten, but I think my calories stayed around 1550 - of course that is if I don't endulge tonight...........hmmmmm.

Well girls, after my complaining fest earlier this week the scale completely cooperated. I guess it got scare ;)

Last night we helped our friends move in an emergency, and it was about 80 degrees and 80% humidity. So we made like 5-6 trips with two carsfull and man was it a workout. I am so sore and beat this morning. It took about 4 hours. So I was telling myselfthat I worked out for 4 straight hours...lol. Almost the truth. The scale gave me a big reward for my efforts. LOL. I am down to 285.8. Woohoo!

Lindy, I hope you're feeling ok!

Sandy, I'm glad your days are getting better!

Staccie, Don't let that binge turn into more binges! Turn it around and put it past you. It sounds like things are getting more and more stressful. Good luck in managing it.

Burgandy, hope you are having fun on vacation!

Neesy, greaat job on the 4 miles and sorry about the painful feet. That's the worst! I actually went through something similar at the beggining of the weight loss. I got new shoes from Reebok. They are the most comfortable shoes I have ever had. They have like extra padding in the soles and the shoe is mesh so that air gets through. They feel like walking on air with a bounce to your step. You should check out your local reebok store. I actually got two pairs at the reebok outlet because they were buy one get one half off.

Sorry I can't catch up more but I have to get to the dealership to get this clunking noise in my rear end of my car checked out.

Oh! and I turned down pizza last night! I am on my 11th day perfectly on plan and I am 10 lbs down since returning from my honeymoon. Yaaaaay!

Hi Ladies,

Tiff - WOW is all I can say! You are doing fantatic! I am like 'majorly' impressed. You are just a kick a** diva! lol........ I agree that you got a 4 hour workout!

I am having a lazy day. Haven't done a thing yet. I had plans but just haven't gotten motivated to do them yet......LOL. My daughter is coming down today to move some furniture in that she bought last week, so I know I will have to have my arse (love that word) up and going soon.

I will check in later today.

mygrits - enjoy your downtime!

tifftiff - way to go!! woohoo! 11 days is awesome!

Off to run even though I'm having a really really don't wanna moment. Am going to do it anyway as the scale looked like maybe 172.5 (at least if you squinted at it the right way : ) ) this morning and I really want to be 172 by the next time I weigh in which will probably be Monday as I'll be at a hotel tonight.

Can't wait to see all of your great weigh-in results tomorrow! Count me in for 5 lbs down since the beginning of our challenge on 8/1. What's everyone else's challenge progress so far?

Hi ladies!! Well I didn't bring my computer home last night so I wasn't able to check in. I am work already and will be here for awhile :( I didn't eat dinner or do anything productive last night and went to bed by 7PM. I obviously needed it. Anyway, I feel much better today and I am taking all day tomorrow off to rejuvenate, cook my meals for the nasty arse week, get my hair done, get in a good workout and focus. I may need your advice, push and spankin (for lack of a better word) next week to keep on track. It's going to be a tough one - our event starts really soon and I'm managing 100's of people all that want a piece of me :) I can't even explain.

Neesy - amazing what you do - making peoples lives better and/or saving them, I just set up things for people's leisure! Oh and Croc's - amazing- I used to wear them when I worked our fair and was on my feet for 18 hours a day - I had all kinds of colors (they are in storage now though). Ugly as sin, but who cares they are amazing for you feet!

Tiff - :jig: :hot: :encore: :cheer: :yay: - in no time you will be :belly:

Dance - hope you have a great run - and woo hoo for 172

Sandy - lazy day - that sounds good - but I wouldn't call you lazy that is for sure!

Well I better get cracking - chat later!

Hi girls...Im sorry, Im really behind and am under the weather so I dont feel like playing catch up this time around.

Anyway...from what I could read, it looks everyone is doing quite well. Tomorrow is weigh in day...Ill hop on although Im sure Ill be bloated as **** bc of all the meds and liquids Ive been consuming. I did well food wise but I have easily consumed 1200 calories in gatorade, oj and soda...yes soda. Ive offset it with a ton of water too but when your sick...you just want to drink and drink and drink.

Anyway...good luck to everyone, I look forward to feeling better and being more interactive.

Take care.

p.s. - Mr. Sweet 16 knew I was sick, so last night I got a knock at my door from the local chinese restaurant and its was steak skewers for Gabriella and rice and soup for me. He ordered and paid for it (btw...he's over an hour a away) just so I wouldnt have to cook dinner. I swear to you..I have never met anyone like this.

Hi girls
Quick check in, I decided to stay the night in Detroit with a cousin and am leaving out in about a half hour to NY. I am ready to be there. Hope everyone is having a wonderful day and I will try to catch up sometime this week.

Hey ladies!! Miss you =) I spent 3 hours in 98 degree heat walking around a flee market today. Actually pretty fun. HOT! but fun.

I am feeling better. down 2 lbs. first loss in two weeks. I love 30ds because it kicks my butt ;) Thank you for helping me to commit to that!!!!! <3

OK.. I'm joining in!! So much positivity here!

I need a weightloss buddy. I need ALOT of buddies to keep me accountable!

And maybe someone will know why my ticker isn't working? Doesn't show the middle number. Shows beginning, shows goal, doesn't show current.... I've tried everything!

Have a great weekend!!!

Hotsplashes!- Hello. I am probably the newsest member and you will never talk to more wonderful girls than here!

Sorry I can't help with your ticker. <3

AJ: WAHOO!! 2 pounds down...good for you!!! :carrot:

Hotsplashes: Welcome! This is a really great group of people, and we're very supportive, but can also be the "voice of reason" when you need one and we'll tell you when you need to "put the fork down and step away from the table." LOL All kidding aside, I think you'll meet a lot of great women here. We share quite a bit as you can read, but it really helps, because in the end...what happens in our life does have an effect on our weight loss.

Lindy: Sorry you're not feeling well, that is the worst. Especially when you don't want to drink all the liquids, but know that you need to or else you'll feel worse in the long run. But WOW...Mr. Sweet 16 is living up to his name! How thoughtful of him...looks like you found one of the good ones!

Tiff: Great job on the loss! And the 4 hour workout!

Staccie: Good job on thinking ahead and planning your meals ahead of time. Hope the week isn't too stressful, but we're here in case you need to vent.

So, I've had a couple of really good days. Yesterday I went out to dinner with the family, had a side salad and a dinner roll (our food took forever) and had some chicken kabobs and took half home. I told Matt, looking back, I would have eaten that whole thing without even thinking about it. But I'm really trying to watch my portions. The half plate stuffed me! Then...at 8:00 at night...I got dressed and went to the gym! 45 minutes of cardio, then did my arm/shoulder strength training. I was there for over an hour and I felt good about myself on the way home.

Today I went to the mall with the family to shop for clothes for Maddie. Had a sweet and salty bar for breakfast, then for lunch, we were at the mall, and the first thing I thought of was Subway...had a 6 inch chix breast sandwich...without giving a thought to eating Chinese (my fav). Maddie had some McDonalds and I tried a fry, didn't care for it AT ALL. Guess I'm getting used to eating healthy. Then for dinner, I had the rest of the chicken kabob. Not too shabby. It's back to the gym tomorrow, then I have the trainer on Monday. So, I am thinking weigh in tomorrow is going to be good.

Talk to you all tomorrow!

Hotsplashes - welcome to this forum! As one of the "founding members", lol...we've been together since last December! You will find all the support and ACCOUNTABILITY you need. Just awarning....you are entitled to off days but if it becomes consistant, we will get Jillian on your arse! Lol. Anyway - tell us a little about you.

AJ - 2 pounds...holy crapola! That is awesome chick! You are sooo pretty right now, I cannot even imagine what a bombshell your gonna be when you get to goal weight...your husband is very lucky.

Maddiesmom- what will power. Now that I am on my diet I cannot go to the mall until I eat BEFORE I go, otherwise I too, have a downfall for Chinese, oh...and Aunt Annes cinnamon pretzels....mmmmmm, those are so freakin good. Im proud of your selection, thats a hard thing to do. Did you treat yourself to anything?

Ok...so drum roll please............................

I LOST 3 POUNDS THIS WEEK!!! Woot-woot, the plateau has finally subsided! Wow...finally. Im amazed at this because I am seriously bloated beyond believe, between the meds, not exercising, and all the calorie beverages...but hey, Ill take it! On the sick front, I went into a sleep induced coma last night, I went to bed at 9 and just woke up at 10 and still wouldnt mind sleeping longer. I had to get up to get Gabriella some breakfast. This is the first time since my separation that I wouldnt mind having someone else here. Mr. Sweet 16 offered but its still too soon to meet Gab, and Im really sticking to my guns on that.

Well...Im going to rest. SOrry Im not more chatty. Im hoping Im feeling better by Monday...or even more so...Wednesday, as me and my honey are going to Seaworld for the day.

Hi Ladies!
I've missed you all--- sorry for being MIA, we headed up to the cabin last minute for the week, so I had no access to the web. Ack! I'm trying to catch up on the 4 pages of goodness I've missed out on.

Tiff- It's so awesome how much you've lost and I have to say, your dancing marshmellows give me the giggles each time I scroll through!!

Lindy- Whoo whoo girl! Love to hear about your time with Sweet 16...and truly coming from another single parent of a young kid, it makes my heart happy to hear how he is slowly involving her too!!

Hot Splashes- Welcome to the group, it is a great place of positive motivation!!


Big WOOOOOT to everyone that's lost so much weight this week!! I'm happy to report that I'm down 5 from where I weighed in last week with my added pound!!! I'm looking forward to everyone else checking in today :)

Hello Ladies,

Lindy - I am sooo sorry for your being sick, but wow, it really brought out the compassionate side of Mr. Sweet 16! I am very impressed, and it sounds like he is slowly winning the approval of your girlfriends here ;-) He has to pass our full approval now! Also congratulations on the weight loss - that is awesome.

Basics - Love your picture. What a beautiful lady you are. A cabin trip sounds absolutely wonderful and very relaxing. You my dear deserve a MASSIVE CONGRATULATIONS for 5 lbs down! My gosh what are you doing?????

AJ - A BIG congrates to you also. That is wonderful that you are down 2 lbs with all the stress you have been under. I would imagine with the packing, lifting, moving you will sweat alot more off fast! LOL.....I don't know what you mean by the "bars" you bar for $250??

Maddiesmom - I bet your little girl had a blast shopping and being the princes for the day - well she probably is everyday, but getting news things is special. You sound like you have really gotten great at food choices and I know that will reflect with your weigh-in. How is your back feeling - all better I hope.

Burgund - Hope your having fun in NY today!

Ok, can you believe I have TOM again? I mean 'hello' what is going on here? Must be more menopause moments. I feel for you ladies when you reach this stage of your life - ugh. Anyway, I am telling myself that is my problem with weight loss because several days ago I was down 3 lbs, but now on weigh in day it is 1 lbs - but whatever I will take it! LOL.......I am not upset and know my weight will move more when my body is ready and TOM leaves....lol

On another note, saw my daughter yesterday. She drove down with two Navy friends to move some furniture she bought into our home for a couple of months. She plans on getting an apartment in November. So needless to say you walk through tunnels when moving about in the livingroom and diningroom.......lol. She did have a happy surprise, as her fiance flew in and showed up to help move. He lives in Wisconsin and she didn't know he was coming down. So, it was a fun day for her!

Hope today is great for all of you!

Thanks for all the kind words. On our official weigh in day I am 285.2. So I am 7 lbs down since the beginning of our challenge.

I am sending good thoughts your way Lindy. I really hope you feel better soon. And congrats on the loss!

Basics, glad your back! Congrats on the 5 lbs!

My allergies are really kicking in this morning so I am feeling like complete crap so I'm gonna go find something to eat...good to eat, lol.

Hey girls!

I have some good news. First I'm down 3lbs! this week (10 since the start of this challenge), Secondly My husband called yesterday! It was only a 30second phone call but I loved it! And He's sending something with his address finally! YAY!

Grits-Congrats on the loss and seeing your daughter!

Lindy-Congratulations on the 3lbs and breaking your plateau! Good job! I like that you are taking it slow with 16 pack and meeting your daughter. You're a great role model for your daughter and I hope you have fun at seaworld. I never been.

Basics- 5LBS!!!! What are you doing. I'm so jealous! Way to go!

Staccie-gettin your exercise on. way to go. I know it always makes me feel proud of myself afterward. Isn't it great that you fill up easier now. Thats half the battle right there.

AJ-Great job! I still need to get the 30DS video. I haven't been able to find it around here. I'm gonna try best buy today. Hopefully they will.

Tiff-7lbs is awesome! You are on a roll girl!

Dancer- You are so close to your goal!!! YAY!

Hotsplashes- Welcome!

Vicky- Good for you not giving in to US portion sizes!!! That is still really hard for me. But I agree with you about fries. They just don't taste good anymore. Great job!!

Lindy- **Doing a little dance for you!** 3lbs while being sick is fantastic! You are like my goddess of weighloss motivation. Thank you for the wonderful compliment and I think the exact same as you! I think that you waiting for her to meet Mr. Perfect is such a good idea. Good for you for putting yours first. =)

Basics- 5lbs??!!! Thats wonderful. You are gonna kick our butts. Hopefully we can all meet you in skinny land someday!

Sandy- Thank you. It really is stressful. I am amazed by how it has effected my eating and weight. But at least I am not bored. And fullbar is a diet plan but I sold them on craigslist this morning. I wanted to give them away to one of you if you wanted but a little "extra" cash right now can't hurt. Even though I spent a fortuune on them this summer. ;) I fall for TV things a lot. My husband could kill me. I have a Fluidity Ballet Bar from TV and like a million pills that I never even tried. hahaha. I am weak.

Tiff- I hope you feel better. Mine have been kicking my butt too. ick. And, we are tied but I have a feeling you are going to pass me like a bolt of lightening!

Neesy- 3 lbs!! YAY. And I am so glad you got to hear his voice. That must feel so soothing and relieving. And he is going to love that stack of letters. Its like christmas for them! They love it. That will really help him get through this. Also, I found the DVD @ target. Walmart did not have it. Weird.

Sundays are always crazy for me so I will be back on tonight. I help my hubby work on Sundays for a little extra school $$. I sweat for 3 hours straight so it is so good for me. Its like the best workout ever. We clean and set back up the church he does sound in. HARD WORK!!

MyGrits- Thanks for the compliment :) Even with my purple windblown hair?!?! There's a funny story behind the photo. We went to the Vikings pre-season game on Friday, it's huge deal being Favre signed on Tuesday. And my friend and I were trying to think of what we could put on a sign that would get us on TV. So, basically our signs said something to the effect that the Hall of Fame can wait, but the Vikings cannot.
Before the game we were hanging in the square and Carl Eller was walking through (he was a Viking back in the day when they won for 11 seasons..and he has several records in the Hall of Fame). I asked him if we could have a photo with him...he said sure... then he looked at our signs and he was very confused....and he says, "but, I'm already in the hall of fame". I started laughing and my friend says, "yeah, this sign actually isn't about you"... he laughed (mind you, he's wearing a shirt that say's Hall of Fame" on it). Anyway, it was pretty funny... we didn't get on TV, but we were on the jumbo-tron 3 times...it was fun ;)

Glad you were able to spend time with your daughter...hope you are able to navigate through the house!!

Tiff- Congrats to you on your loss!! Hope your allergies calm down soon.

**Editing as I see 2 people posted while I was typing!**

Neesy- YEAH!! So glad you got a phone call and will be getting an address soon :) Great job on the 3 down this week and 10 since the start!!!!

AJ- Thanks, can't wait to see you in skinnyland!!


I just got done with my jog/walk... Several days ago I realized that I cannot follow the C25K exactly progress so much each week...at my weight, it's not that easy for me to go from 90 second of running to 3 minutes....several times over... I had a little break down over that, felt like I was going to let everyone down that's joining in if I can't jog the entire 5K. I talked with one of my friends that runs all the time about it last week and she gave me a bit of a pep talk, saying that most people she knows that join a 5K for the first time, haven't run it entirely... BUT, she said, it doesn't mean you don't work your A$$ off trying!!
I love my friends, just as much as being here to get my butt in gear :)

Hi ladies,

Well I am down no pounds - on top of that I am 220 :( How I got up that quick in one week I have no idea - but it's impossible for someone to gain almost 5 pounds in one week so it must be my medication - something. I wish I never even bothered to weigh, but I will try again on Wed and see if it goes down! I'm still feeling rather yucky - very tired, headachy - I am so hoping this will get better - sorry to complain!!

Congrats to everyone else - that is so awesome! I am very happy for you all!! I think I am ready for 20 days now with no days off and a minimum of 10 hours a day for my event - food cooked, gym scheduled...I gotta do this.

Sorry I would like to comment on everyone else individually - because there are some great things to say but I need to run out and get my hair done. I swear I've had 5 new gray hairs sprout this week again! Will check in tonight.

Hey girls-

Im feeling a little better. Thanks for all the well wishes. I am going to start jogging again tomorrow. I am hoping the shin splints have healed--fingers crossed.

Ok...now, let me get more interactive, lol.....

Mygrits - wow, you have been hitting the daughter jackpot lately...lol. You have got to see her a lot lately, yay for you. I wouldnt worry about the weight gain with TOM, technically...you still lost.

Tiff- kudos on your weight loss, you are really killing it and staying on track, I am super proud of you!

Neesy - yay...Im so happy for you! You have a double bonus...hubby and 3lbs - awesome! Its funny, your jealous of basics and Im jealous of both of you. Haha.


Back2Basics - I totally hear you on the 5k. My neighbor put me on this training program to do the Disney Marathon in January and I was like...no way, there is no freakin way. Your body will eventually warm up to it. I used to struggle to walk 3 miles, now I run/walk it almost the whole way without heavy breathing, I look forward to the day I can run the whole thing straight.

Stacie - Im SURE that the gain is from medivation, 5 lbs is just not possible. Keep up with your program, you have been doing so well lately.

Wow...it looks like everyone is doing really well. Keep up the good work girls...Im really excited to see everyones before and afters.

Howdy, all! We're back from our hiking trip and I'm exhausted! Did well foodwise except I couldn't stick to my no treat after the hike idea - ended up having some chips and salsa but not too bad.

Lindy - glad you're feeling a bit better! Congrats on the much-deserved loss and on the great treatment by Mr 16 - also much deserved!

Staccie - I'm sure that's a fluke and medication related! Hang in there with all of the hard work ahead - I'm sure it will be tough but you are one strong chickie and we know you can do it! Gorgeous avatar, btw!

back2basics - love your pic too! 5lbs is wonderful - great job!!!

aj - big congrats on the 2lbs - that's great!

neesy - woooohoooo on the 3lb loss!!! And so glad you heard from your hubby - what a nice treat!

tifftiff - great job on the loss! All your hard work is really paying off!!!

mygrits - you are doing great - congrats on the 1lb (but really 3lbs, hormonally adjusted) loss!!!!

maddiesmom - sounds like you are sticking to a great eating plan - curious to hear your results for the week!

hotsplashes - nice to see you here and welcome!

Wow, girls - this thread is seriously the good news train today - great job all around! (Including you Staccie since we know you would have posted a loss if it weren't for meds). Let's have another great week, all!

Hello Ladies!!

I would reply to each and every one of you but it's been a very longggg day.

Thank you ALL for the wonderful welcome!!!

I promise I will post to everyone tomorrow!

Lindy - glad you are feeling better and fingers crossed that your jog will be painfree tomorrow - shin splints are so painful! I would put calf muscle tears on that as the second most painful one!

Neesy - congrats on the 3lbs and the phone call from your husband...what a great day for you - I hope it continued on just as great.

AJ - I hope your Sunday and extra 'workout' went well - sometimes it's go great to burn calories in a different way that is not termed exercise and you sometimes end up working muscles that are missed in a regular workout!

Back2Basics - great pic and nice smile! I ran maybe 5 blocks and I thought I was going to keel over - I am going for a bit more this week - your body will get used to it - I know a lot of people that are much skinnier than me that couldn't even do 5 blocks - so :cheer: so your friend is more than right - I remember when I couldn't even do more than 10 min on the CT or lift more than 24 pounds when doing chest presses - your body is in training and it will continue to get better and better!!

Dance - thanks - I am sure it's just a fluke, I am not going to worry too much about it, I will wait until next Sunday and then I am sure I will see much more. Glad to hear you had a good hiking trip. I am going on a hiking trip after this event is over - before it starts getting too chilly here. I really wasted my summer :( hard to believe it's almost over.

I made an effort to cook some chicken and veggies and I forgot about them and they are burnt to a crisp :( AHHHHH! I wish I could hire a personal chef!! I get points for trying but I just get too darn distracted! ARSE!!

Well I am very apprehensive about this upcoming week...I have to make it to the gym Mon-Thurs because my event starts on Friday and then I won't be able to get back to the gym until Monday since I am working from 7AM-11PM everyday for 10 days straight (somedays I am off by 6PM) but the good thing is I will run around all day in an arena so I will get getting lots of cardio and I will take stairs instead of elevators etc. So I am not too worried. I don't know how much I will be able to post during that time but I am going to make every effort because I need your support!!! :coach: :club: - NO EXCUSES! Especially with making sure I eat enough food - so easy to forget when you are so busy!!

Cheers everyone and have a fantastic week!

Neesy: Soooo happy for the weight loss...and, more importantly, the phone call from your hubby. Hope the calls will get longer and you'll get more mail. I know you must be missing him like crazy.

Congrats to all on the weight loss...we're all doing so well, guess we've all kicked it into high gear.

Staccie: Good luck with your event at the end of the week. Hopefully the workouts earlier in the week will help with the nervousness. You'll kick but...I know it!

Dancer: Don't feel bad about the chips and salsa...at least it wasn't a dozen donuts or a quart of ice cream or something. THere's nothing wrong with healthy snacking. Good job on your hike!

Ok, official weigh in...I lost 3 pounds this week! Didn't make it to the gym today, my Friday night workout kicked my butt and I didn't get the "full effect" of it until this morning. Spent some time outside playing and running with Madeline, so it wasn't a total loss. Did a lot of walking yesterday and today, so not too shabby. So, I've lost 9 since our challenge began. Watch out ladies!!

Well, need to get going, have to be up early tomorrow for work and then I meet the new trainer tomorrow night. Hopefully my soreness will be done by then! Have a great night!

YEAH HOO VICKY!!! I hope I can share in all of your WOO HOO's next Sunday!!! :cheer:

Woo Hoo! Maddiesmom that is awesome! :congrat: 3 lbs is just tremendous in a week. Congratulations ;-)

Staccie - It has to be the medicine and the stress of last week and not feeling well. Stay on your plan and I know you will see great results this week. :cheer2: Logically we know you can't gain 5lb of fat in a week, however you can retain fluid that way and I am sure that is all it is. I hope tomorrow is good for you! :sunny:

Neesy - I know today was so special for you in many ways.....3 lbs loss is fantastic and then to speak to your husband! :cp: :hug: Woo Hoo! I know you were on top of the clouds today!

Lindy - I am so glad your feeling better and I too hope you are able to run like crazy tomorrow........ Congratulations to you too on your weightloss, Mr 16 and hey, your cruise coming up! :dance: Woo Hoo to you too!!!!

Well today was not a good day, I ate, and ate. I think is is having Tom AGAIN when I just got rid of him 4 days ago.........ugh! :hun: So I ate. Tomorrow I will refocus and be back on it.

Have a good night!

Woo-hoo Maddiesmom - 3 lbs. This week was a very good week for everyone! Good job girls!

Mygrits - what the heck are you doing up at 12 am?! Im in your timezone, so I know that time is accurate, lol. Sorry your having such a rough TOM BUT if this is menopause, according to my mom, lol...you are going to have these bouts on and off, and you cant go on a feeding frenzy everytime...tisk***tisk...YOU HAD YOUR CHEAT DAYS, if you need up for calorie intakes...fine, do it, but offset it with some extra exercise...common...move it...move it...move it! YOU CAN DO IT! Ok, back to nice Lindy....lol...I hope you start to feel better and soon.

Stacie - wow, busy week ahead is right. I think even if you cant do the gym thing, because honestly, as much as you need the gym, you need your rest...you will get plenty of cardio doing the arena. My brother works at the arena here and its a seasonal job. Everytime he starts doing the seasonal job, he drops like 15-20 pounds just from all the walking he does. Ugh...he makes me sooo mad, Lol.

Well, I have mild affects of still being sick, very...very mild, so, Im going to up the anty on the water to get all the crap out of me...not literally, lol. Ill talk to you girls later.

maddiesmom - WOOHOO on the 3lbs - that is great! You are doing so well!

Staccie - what is it that you're doing this week? a kind of drill to prep for the Olympics? Lots of luck!

mygrits - I'm pretty clueless when it comes to pre-menopause hormone stuff but since so many people go through it, there must be some good advice out there. My mom totally skipped it all because of an operation but the rest of the girls probably have sisters/aunts/moms/girlfriends that have dealt with it. My personal lifesaver when I'm hormonal is crystal light popsicles because I could literally plow through the whole box without doing much damage. What does everyone else suggest for mygrits?

lindy - good idea on drinking lots - hope you're almost over this thing!

I'm kind of stiff and sore from our hike but in a good way. It should make it easier to sit at a desk all day : )

In reference to Dances question but aimed at Mygrits - pickles! When I am SUPER hungry and cant control myself, I eat pickles like they are going out of style, I can easily consume a jar in one sitting on a really bad day. Now, there is some sodium risks but no worst than a bag of chips. Oh, another snack that is healthy that I eat ALL THE TIME, is cucmbers in vinegar and water with sliced green peppers and onions...lots of onions. It taste better if it sits overnight to marinate but you can eat it without sitting. Its so yummy...god, just thinking aboout it gets me craving it.

Oh, so I failed to mention my new schedule that Im hoping doesnt screw me up too much on my diet. Without my husband int he picture anymore, I have to account for bringing Gab to and from school, because its not in budget to put her in daycare. So, that being said...I have to start taking lunch from 230-330. I usually go home for lunch and eat and do chores, so the plan is to bring my lunch to work, eat it on one of my 15 minute breaks and then do my normal routine with picking her up from school on my LATER lunch break now. Wish me luck. :)

Hi Ladies -

Lindy - Thanks for the 'talk' as I needed it. I was somewhat aggrevated with myself this morning and YES I should have been in bed! However, again, husband and kids were up so I couldn't get to bed until 1:30am.........ugh. Now pickles makes me smile, as I was nuts on them when I was pregnant. However you mentioning it, I may just buy a jar. The cucumbers with onions and all is something my mom used to make and I loved it. She would marinate hers in Good Seasons Italian Dression (the packet mixed with oil & water) and it was delicious! Thanks for the menopausal suggestions. It really does suck, and I can't believe I am going through this - God I'm 51! Anyway just so you girls know, Menopause actually starts (quietly and slowly) 10 years earlier......Premenopause. The later symptoms are the yucky ones. I do remember in my early 40's and mid 40's having some weird TOMS and all.......Any off that subject, I am better today and focused. I didn't workout (may tonight) due to TOM. Lindy I hope schedule works. I remember having to do that when I lived in Ft. Lauderdale. However I have a far drive (from Ft. Lauderdale to Coral Springs and back) so I was always late getting back - usually by 15 minutes. My boss was awesome though and never said a word ;-) Good Luck!

Dance - Thank you to you to. I really just keep hoping I will stop having TOM and be free!!!!!! LOL........but not yet. I was taking an herb called Macca, that is just awesome. It is an adapter for woman and men with hormones, thyroids and all, but I ran out and haven't gotten to the health food store to purchase more.

Well I hope you two have a great day!

Lindy - I so hear you about pickles! I like the spicy 'zesty' ones too. Good luck with the new schedule - that sounds tricky! Have you been in touch with your (ex) husband lately? Haven't heard you mention it if so - curious how you're doing on that front.

mygrits - this is kind of an odd question but why does everyone stay up so late at your house? Since the good time for exercising is early in the morning when it's so hot out, that would TOTALLY mess me up. Can you try to convince people to go to bed earlier or does that not really work? My bf will often claim he's not tired, so I'll convince him to read in bed but as soon as he gets horizontal he conks out.

So, girls, I'm 3lbs away from being in the 160s and I want to make SERIOUS progress this week. I haven't been in the 160s since maybe 2003 and can't wait to get there so I'm probably going to be bugging you guys to death with all of my plans, etc. If you guys don't mind, I'm going to post about my eating and exercise plan everyday this week to make myself stick to it.

Here's what I'm thinking for today:
Breakfast - yogurt and fruit
Lunch - tuna sandwich, grapes
Snacks - carrots, apple
Dinner - rotisserie chicken and broccoli, maybe brown rice or couscous
Shooting for 1400 cal or less and will be walking for an hour with a buddy. Legs are too sore from yesterday for anything more strenuous : )

Hi Ladies,
It's lunchtime in Chicago, so I'm at my desk and being antisocial and typing you guys!

I'm extremely exhausted today, not sure why. I did go to bed a little later than usual, but I didn't really "work out" yesterday. I played with Maddie which was a ton of fun. I even caved and had a cup of coffee this morning, for the first time in over a month. (I did make it 1/2 regular and 1/2 decaf and didn't drink the entire thing). Food is good today (so far). Breakfast: 1/2 cup blueberries with lite yogurt and Bear Naked granola. No morning snack, lunch is a Healthy Choice "Portabella Spinach Parmesean" Pasta dish. Pretty good. Snack will be a banana and a sweet and salty bar if I need it. Turkey burgers tonight for dinner, and then I have the trainer fro 8-9 pm. Full day!

Lindy: Good luck with the new schedule. I'm not sure how Matt and I are going to swing that when Maddie gets into school. We're hoping that by the time we have our 2nd, I'll be able to stay home and be a full time mommy (my dream job). We figure having 2 kids and 2 working parents my entire check would go to daycare, so what would be the point? We'll have to see what the future brings...especially in this economy.

Sandy: Hope your body regulates itself and you can get some sleep and your TOM stops causing trouble. I think you should do one of your mini workouts at least, it may tire you out enough where you can get some sleep and in the end, I'll think you'll feel better.

Dancer: Great job on your hike...wish I had some place interesting to hike, but I live in a "plains" area, so it's flat and boring. Guess I'll suffer and go to the gym. I have some client friends that live in Greenwood Village, CO and they say it's absolutely beautiful...guess I'll have to check out CO at some point in time.

Dance - I am so excited for you! I look forward to my milestone of 150, thats what I was in HS...from what I can remember. Then...of course, 120 or 130 (we'll see how my body looks at 130). Ex husband...yeah, we talk, but only about Gabriella. I told him that I no longer can act favorable to a reconciliation, as I am happy with how things are in my life (even before Mr. 16)...life just got easier. So, we do talk and are ammicable and polite but thats the extent of it. When I get my taxes back next year, thats when I will probably file for divorce, as divorce in Florida is expensive, even if it is amicable...the fees are ridiculous. Anyway...your meals always sound so yummy, maybe Ill jump on the band wagon and share my food:

Detour protein bar
3 wgg whites and 2 slices of turkey bacon
1 large peach (this thing was on steroids, lol)
salad with chicken and extra virgin olive oil
snap peas
Hmmm...not sure what Im doing for dinner...think...think...think...

Mygrits - you better get your butt doing something. Get to it with the laps in the pool, lol. I know TOM can be a biotch, lol...but increasing the exercise can at least offset the munchies, keep that in mind. I wish we lived closer, I would totally be your drill sargeant, lol.

Ok...leaving in 30 minutes to take lunch, this actually isnt too bad, as long as I pack my lunch the night before...I think Ill be in good shape. :)

Hi ladies!

Have a few min to log in and see all your pretty faces and read your messages. I didn't work out today - I was up until 2Am - couldn't sleep so I decided that getting a few more hours sleep was better. That way I can get to bed at a decent time tonight and then get up tomorrow morning - for at least some cardio as I am not on venue until the 28th. Today I had a banana, a yummy mint chocolate protein shake and eating chicken breast, grilled tom and zuchinni. I am proud - I had to recook it because I burned it but it doesn't taste too bad. I am feeling noticeably better today too!


Pickles- I have not had for so long...I am going to buy a car tonight!!

Dance - yes please post - it gives me ideas and I find that when I write something down, I am more accountable for it! 160's-boy that seems so far away for me - but I can live through you for now!!!

Vicky - your meals sound awesome - mine are so boring - keep them coming, it gives me great ideas!

Lindy - good luck with the new routine - you are such an inspiration - I know we all say it but I really want to say it loud and proud!!!

Well I have to go and present my budget, be back later!

Hi Ladies!

Lindy- Were the shin splints gone, leaving you good to go on your run? Good luck on your new routine, you’ll get into the groove with the change!

Dance- of any “treat” to have, chips and salsa is a pretty healthy snack..as long as you don’t eat the entire family size bag! 3 pounds away from the 60’s?!?! That’s so fantastic, you can do it!!!

Stacie- thanks for the cheerleader! I can definitely feel a change in my body now that I’ve stepped up my jogging, from where I started! Girl, your schedule sounds crazy!! But, with all the exercise you’ve been getting in, along with eating right, you are going to get through this time with flying colors!!

Maddie-Whoo who on the 3 pounds lost!! Great job!

MyGrits- Get your hands around that TOM’s neck and kick that @#$@ to the curb :) I hope to hear you got back on the tracks!


Well, I have the day off today...so I went for a 2 mile mostly walk and a little jog. And for lunch I made a new kind of veggie burger... I was a bit disappointed in it, so I'll tweak it with my own seasonings and post it once I get it perfected :)

Dance- YAY (Almost) Milestone!!!! I have been pretty much stuck in the low 160's for years. This is the first year I have been @ 175. I wasn't really happy in the 160's but I am much happier there than any higher!! Good luck this week.

Vicky- Sorry that you are tired and I hope you perk up soon.

Lindy- You amaze me. You are so independent. I can't clean the house, work out and think in the same day. You are super woman. AND I LOVE PICKLES!

Staccie- Don't get too worn down. Always allow time for rest.

Basics- You are so diciplined. I wish I were 1/2 as dedicated as you are to working out!!!

Well... I am stressed, missing my friends and I haven't even moved yet and I am feeling very FAT!

I started a 7 day cleanse so my whole week looks like this:
Breakfast- 1/2 grapefruit, 2 eggs and water
snack- protien shake
Lunch- Green Salad with no dressing with chicken
Snack- protien shake 1/2 grapefruit
Dinner- Green salad with salsa as dressing, chicken and steamed green beans.

That is all. No starch serving this week. Rough and tough. Kicking my own butt this week. Need to break the plateau!!

<3 You all and I hope your days are fantastic. Talk to you all this evening.

Wow girls...I think I am going to have to expand the door to my office because you really are giving me a big head, lol...thanks for all the kudos and compliments. Wow...I guess I got everyone else on a pickly craze...thats it, Im going to invest some money int he Vlassic pickle stock, lol.

Anyway...Stacie, your meal sounds good. What a great mix of veggies and chicken, I think you have inspired my dinner for the night...so ty. How is work going with all the running around?

Back2Basics - oh yeah, I did good with the running and shin splints. I decided to get my daughter into running now, so I had to take it easy, as she is kinda out of shape, which is a shame at 8 but oh well...we will get there. Its probably for the best anyway...ease back into the run. I was told by the trainer that I need to watch how my feet hit the pavement, he observed that I runn in the front of my feel with my heels up, he said the way you should run is heel to toe...ok, I get it, it makes sense...but who the heck pays attention to that when your in the moment...uh, I guess I have to now, lol. 2 miles is really good..whats the weather like where your at? I actually think we are going to have a cool winter bc the nights and mornings are not humid at all, or maybe thats bc its hurricane season? Idk...fingers crossed, I would welcome some cooler weather.

AJ- good luck with your cleanse...that takes a lot of discipline. I attempted a cleanse once and failed miserably, I felt so weak and crappy. I know it is technically good for you, but still...soo freakin hard. Good luck chickadee!

Ok...getting ready to go home. Ill talk to you girls later.

Mygrits - I wonder if we all hang out in the same forums long enough we all start to synch our TOMs all at the same time??lol I crave chips in the worst way when it's TOM! Hope today was better for you!

Lindy - I hope you will be feeling much better tomorrow! Good girl on upping the water!! I find that when I am sick, eating Miso Soup is a big help! Take it easy today and hopefully tomorrow you will be back to normal!

Dancer - Where did you go for a hike? I always take my camera and my dogs with me when I go hiking. Sadly, the doggies are getting veryyyyyyyyyyyyyyy old now so we just go to the doggie park once a week now. Keep up the great work!!

Maddiesmom - Yay for you on the healthy eating!! Bear Naked Granola bars?? I have never heard of them... are they good?? I wonder if they are available in Canada....

BrowneyedStaccie - ohh yummy grilled Zucchini! I am getting a new BBQ this weekend as the old one bit the biscuit. Gonna do some grilled veggies!! Yummmmm.. OHhh New Car!! What kind??????

BacktoBasics - are you a vegetarian? When I was vegan, I used to get the Yves Veggie burgers..I loved them. Friend of mine makes her own ... and boy are they good... I 'll see if I can get the recipe for you if you'd like.

AJOwens - KICK THat Butt!! Starches are my enemy too. Tater Chips... and tortilla chips. I know you will beat the cravings!! Good luck!!

I cleaned the whole first floor of my house.. and now I'm paying for it..but the work out of doing it felt great at the time. Gonna have to take some pain meds to be able to sleep tonite. Got on the scale..I have a feeling I will be down a pound tomorrow.. TOM and all.... Eating has been good. No junk.. but then again..I got rid of all the junk over the weekend. Out of site out of mind.
Gonna get on the scale tomorrow and see!! Got lots of water in today too.. More than the required 8 glasses.

You ladies are great!! So supportive!! I am really enjoying this group!

I was asked to tell you abit about me! So here it goes!!

I was born in Canada, Raised in California. Lived in CA, CO, NY, FLA. I've lived in Mexico and Japan. I now reside in the Niagara Region of Ontario Canada. One of the most beautiful places in the world. I'm about 10 minutes from Niagara Falls.

I have been a horse trainer for most of my life. But due to all the injuries, I've had to stop everything for now. Bad back laid me up in bed for 4 months this year, and it took another 2 before I could walk without crutches or a walker. And of course I gained the weight!

Since I had nothing to do while laying in bed for 4 months, I wrote a book. It's published!! YAYYY... I've been a freelance journalist for 12 years now, so what better hobby to keep me occupied while bedridden?lol

I have 2 Geriatric dogs, a Siamese cat, and four horses. And somewhere in there I find time for Dr. BF.

I have just been accepted back into school. I am going for my law degree. During these next few years at school I will be going through alternative treatments for my back in hopes of avoiding the surgery that my doctor is trying to force me to have.

SO if anyone wants to know anything.. just ask! OH yeah.. I have a HUGE veggie garden!!lol:carrot::carrot::carrot:

Hotsplashes - Where did you live in Mexico? I lived in Mexico City for about 5 yrs but spent time in Monterrey, Puebla, Culiacan (Sinaloa) and traveled all over for fun. Maybe we overlapped at some point : ) What a tough road you've had, recovering from your injuries - my sympathies - I can only imagine how hard that must be. And how great that you're going back to school! Glad you've joined us - this is a great group and I swear it's the reason that I've lost the weight this summer. Too bad your dogs are getting older - the dog I dogsit for is getting up there too and can't hike with us anymore which is such a bummer. We've been hiking up and down the front range this summer, trying to get out and explore more. Good for you for getting so much cleaning done - I'm sure you'll see that reflected in the scale tomorrow : )

Lindy - if you continue to have trouble with shin splints, you might check to see if you pronate when you run (that is, do your feet start to tip towards the center at the end of your stride - it's complicated to explain - I'm sure google can do it better than I can). I always get running shoes that are for 'mobility control' or to prevent pronation and they help me a lot. Specifically new balance. When you're ready for a new pair, go to a really good running store and have them observe your stride and give you advice on what you need - that's been super helpful for me in the past. That is just great that you took your daughter running with you! It sounds like you know in your heart what to do about the situation with your husband - if you aren't missing him like crazy, that's a pretty strong sign that you're headed down the right path - good for you for figuring things out!

AJ - whoa - that cleanse sounds very tough to stick to! You are one disciplined girl for giving it a shot - I'm getting the sense that you're a bit of an all or nothing girl - am I close? : ) Curious to hear how it goes! I hear you on not having been thrilled when you were in the 160s - I have a feeling I'll want to lower my goal too but it's a heck of a lot better than where I've been lately so one step at a time, right?

Back2basics - sounds like you are having a very healthy and on plan day off! Do you find it's easier to stick to plan on work days or off days? I tend to find it easier at work when the fridge and pantry are far far away...

Staccie - There's a small typo in your post and I was thinking 'wow - how did she get from pickles to CAR shopping' - I get it now, you meant jar, right? : ) Too funny! I can't believe you had to do your cooking all over again, yikes! Sometimes when I'm lazy, I get the veggies that are already washed and chopped, etc at the grocery store - while things are so nuts for you at work, can you take some shortcuts to make your life easier? Grab some already cooked rotisserie chicken like Lindy and I do? Hang in there!

I better get back to work - so not in the mood today!

AJ- I heard about that Cleanse Diet from friends that did Slim 4 Life and that if you stick to it, it truly does help break a plateau. Good luck lady—YOU CAN DO IT, we’re here for you!!! :grouphug:

Lindy- Interesting about what your trainer said in how you run. I am heading over to a Running store (like Dancer had mentioned) later this week, to help guide me in what shoes to get and how to compensate for some weird kick I do. :tread: I live in Minnesota and we’ve had an amazingly cool summer, perfect for working out…although I’m nervous what this will mean for winter!!!

HotSplashes- What an interesting past in places you have lived! Congrats on going back to school for law:D…I’ve contemplated it. My ex is an attorney and he said I’d really enjoy the classes, especially in debate. LOL… And no, I’m not a vegetarian, although I do enjoy some of the vegan recipes I have gotten my hands on. I like seeing different recipes, so if you do happen upon it, please do pass it along.

Dancer- Normally I find it harder to stay to my diet when I’m home. However, the last few weeks (minus my pizza gorge day), I have felt right on target—and more into the experimental recipes to eat healthy… so basically, I’ve been enjoying my time in the kitchen. :chef:

Tonight I just made a quick dinner… a regular grilled cheese for my daughter and my grilled cheese on whole grain I also added diced tomatoes, thinly sliced onion and a few slices of avocados… so simple, but man, it tasted so good! I made brownies for the neighborhood this evening and I’m happy to report that not only did I NOT have one, but I didn’t even lick the spoon! Yippee…thanks for all the support ladies :gossip:

Backtobasics - I would love to ring TOM's neck - just like a chicken! I am back on track, thank you. I really went nuts last night, but I ate nothing that was really that good. I guess thats because we don't keep alot of "junk" in our house, so I overindulged in crappy stuff........lol. Your doing terrific my dear, keep it up! UPDATE! You click your comments on here while I was writing, so I had to add Grilled Cheese - my favorite and brownies - LOL........yes I would have licked the spoon - so good for you!!!!!!!!!!!! :-9

AJ - A cleanse! I feel for you....lol. My husband did one about a month ago, and oh my, he thought he would die. I have to say though, after a couple of weeks, he did feel much better. I will say though, your food diet is much healthier than his, so you will probably feel better than he did.

Lindy - Kudo's to Gabadoo exercising with you. That to me is awesome and 8 is a great age to get started! I wish I had done the same with mine, however my mom (grandma) did keep them very active. I am blessed though that through my weight struggles, they have done better with their health. Of course my daughter going through bootcamp - she didn't have much choice! LOL...........funny! I hope your shins do better, and I am there with Dance's advice to have someone fit your form with shoes. I too LOVE New Balance. I won't wear anything else.

Hotsplashes - Your hilarious. I wonder if we do coincide with TOM weeks! I know we do at home with my daughter-in-law and when my daughter lived here. It sounds like you have had quite an adventurous life thus far with your travels, horse career and writings! You actually have lived much of the life I have dreamed of. I was also raised with horses and sold my last horse (A Mustang) a year ago, which broke my heart. I miss him bunches ;-( Do to the economy I just couldn't afford to keep Spirit any longer. I also have alot of writers in my family, and I too have more recently gotten the bug - so we will see where it leads. Travel - gosh, I have ALWAYS wanted to travel the world. I hope one day it will happen. I am sorry about your injuries that you have endured all these months. I hope surgery will not have to happen and in time your body will heal. However, cleaning the whole downstairs??? Thats alot of work! Please be careful. Lastly good for you going for a Law Degree, that is awesome. I went for Paralegal and was also pursuing Business Law, but do to raising two children on my own (without support) I ended up dropping out the last semester. I never did go back - maybe someday. Anyway, welcome to you! I hope you enjoy your new home here. It is an awesome group of women and we have become good friends over the months.

Dance - I hope your day has been good!

Tiff - I hope the taxes are almost done and you and your hubby are settled in your new home - comfortably ;-)

Burgund - I miss you and hope your trip has been good.

Neesy - I hope today has been good and not difficult. I wish I could see your husbands face when he gets all his letters! ;-)

Take care and hope everyone has a great night!

Grits- Thanks. I wish I could see his face too. I got the letter in the mail with the return address today. I went right away to the post office and mailed my letters. I hope they make his time a little easier.

Today was a pretty good day. I actually found myself having to eat more calories. I was only at 800 for the day. So I ate a bowl of cereal which then put me at 1200. That's crazy. I haven't felt hungry all day. I eat soemthing small ever 4 hours which seems to be pretty good for me.

I'll catch up more tomorrow. Goodnight

Holy moly - lots to read!! I am logging on because I am really peed off and need to refocus on something else fun like myself and all of you! I had a very hellish day (ummm I wonder if that will get censored) and then I come out of a meeting and see that almost my whole team is gone and their computers are here....I feel kind of angry about that. Our event is four days out! I know that I just do more and expect more of myself so I shouldn't get bitter but sometimes I just do. I am so overwhelmed it's not even funny but I won' t admit that to anyone here and I will just get through it somehow. Ahhhh. But I should admire those people for finding life balance I guess, maybe I am just envious after all. Now is not the time to start a life change for myself! But if I can eat right and workout then that's half the battle. I have to get up tomorrow morning - I thought about just going for a walk along the ocean instead of being in the gym. That way I get fresh air, relax and a jump on the day. Once I am on venue, I will be ok because I will be walking everywhere.

Anyway on to better things...

Back to Basics - yum veggie burger - would be totally interested in that one!!!OH and not licking the spoon!! WOO HOO :cheer: I probably would have put my whole face in the bowl today and inhaled it!!!

AJ - good luck - that takes great discipline and I bet you are going to rock it girl!!! I wish I could do that right now, I would love to cleanse out my body - especially my head!

Welcome hotsplashes!! It was nice to read your introduction!! It helps us catch up with you. I love your 'name' by the way - mine would definitely be hotflashes today!! :) I am the one that says arse a lot on this forum!

Dance - you are so right - I need to make things easier for myself this week and not worry about cooking elaborate meals! Thanks - I am going to Safeway on my way home to make my life a bit more simple!

I am way under my calories today - I didn't have my afternoon snack and now I am just tired. I think having fruit in the afternoon (something quick that I can eat and type and/or walk with at the same time is beneficial). I am craving pasta today and I haven't had any type of pasta for months!!

Well I better get home...I hope to pump out a few hours and be in bed no later than 10PM so I can get up and get a workout in and feel good again!

Thanks for listening to my vent. I have to be, expected to be when leading such a large and diverse group of people - Merry Sunshine all day long and I never complain, I always smile and never get grouchy and sometimes I secretly look at someone and wish I could just flick their nose!

Dance- I am usually a nothing/nothing person lately but I can't give myself this much freedom because I let myself go. The more strict I am the better off I am about doing it.

Hotsplashes- Thats wonderful that you wrote a book. I am sorry that you have been debilitated while doing it but that is a HUGE life accomplishment. And I hope that you can achieve what you are hoping through alternative med! Surgery should be a last resort. Neesy is our resident miracle worker around here. She might have some opinions.

Basics- It is really hard but the first week I did this I only did it for 3 days and I lost 7 lbs that week soooooo!!! You know. I need to catch up to you =)

Sandy- I am just feeling tired. No starches= sleepy me. How was your day? Are things going better for you?

Neesy- I am glad it was a better day. I think of you a lot now during the day and wonder what you are having to deal with.:hug:

Staccie- Thank you. I need all of the luck/support/dicipline I can conjur up =)

I am really tired. This is how I get if I have no starches. I had good chicken and salad for dinner though so I feel better than I did @ lunchtime. I am going to bed 4 hours before I normally do so that I don't eat. lol. Goodnight beautiful ladies!!!!

AJ - just a quick post to say I totally laughed out loud at your 'nothing/nothing person' comment - too funny! : )

Off to take a bath and get into one of my new library books - yep, that's right - miss wild 'n' crazy life, right here! Did pretty well foodwise - 1426cal and a one hour walk. Good luck to all in the nightly anti-munchies battle : )

Good morning girsl...wow, it sure does get busy at night, which is when I drop off, lol. So let me just tell you...today is one of those days! I am STARVING...I am seriously looking at nawing on my hand to overcome my urge to eat. Its ridiculous. AND...I was running behind this morning (not by much but still)...so I couldnt even compensate and make a good meals for breakfast...grrrr. I seriously debated on having a steak bagel from McDonalds but I drove by, now Im at work...very freakin hungry but am still glad I didnt give in to the steak bagel. Sorry...I just cant focus. Also...for whatever freakin reason, maybe the meds from the weekend are catching up with me but I am bloated beyond belief, I feel disgusting. The good news in all this...I dont feel the need to binge or overindulge and I did get in a killer spinning class this morning, as well as my morning jog. Ok...enough of my belly aching...let me get into everything else:

Hotspashes - thanks for the intro, it sounds like you are going to be a great fit here. I am soooo sorry to hear about your accident, I hope your recovery period goes well and you are able to stray away from the surgery.

Dance - LMAO - you are so funny! You party animal you! How did you do exercise wise yesterday? It amazes me the self discipline you have with your caloric intake...whos a rockstar?! Your a rockstar! lol

AJ- thats exactly the same issue I had when I did the detox...my body was going to die...it just started shutting down, I wish you luck though, its only temporary and if you can withstand it, it will pay off dividends. p.s. - I do the same thing if Im hungry...sleep it off. Even if Im not tired.

Mygrits - how ya holding up with TOM? I think TOM is here again for me, which Im all off with my cycle. I normally dont even get a cycle and lately Im getting it every 2-3 weeks. I may have to go to the doctor if this keeps up, although...Im pretty sure this is a side affect of my birth control. Are you not loving our weather lately? If you are walking...Im sure your enjoying the morning, I am!

Stacie - keep your eye on the prize girly! Its hard to go off track when you have as much stress as you do, but just try to make 15 minutes on here each day and we'll get you there. Your doing awesome. Did you get in workout yesterday?

Ok...I think I am going to run to publix and get a veggie sub bc I am going to dive into the snack machine if I dont put something in my tummy. The only thing that I can get healthy at this hour is a veggie sub. Good luck girls.

Ok...Im happy and full. I went and got a 6 inch turkey sub on wheat bread. I started to pass on the cheese but REALLY wanted it, so I gave into my provolone meltdown, lol. I loaded it with lettuce, pickles, black olives, banana peppers, green peppers and jalapenos and its was delish. This will put me on the higher end of my calorie consumption for the day but Im ok with that...calorie cycling..right? At least I didnt have a bag of chips. My 6 inch sub was only 90 calories more than a snack size bag of my favorite...Cheez Its, <drooling>, lol...so, Im very happy with my decision.

Ok...I have to get back to work now. Ciao Bellas!

Morning, girls!
It seems like burning stored fat must release estrogen stored in the fat cells or something and it can make our cycles get seriously wiggy. I can't find info from a reputable doc about it but it's about the only thing that makes sense to me as so many of us find our cycles going nuts as we lose weight. I normally take the pill back-to-back so that I only have a cycle every 2-3 months but since I've been dieting things have gotten much more unpredictable regardless of what I do with the pills. So, I don't have anything helpful to say except that I sympathize and it means we're losing the weight and things will get normal again, just not necessarily for a while.

Lindy - good luck controlling the hunger monster today!

I'm pretty sore from the hike this weekend still but am going to try to go running anyway - it may end up being on the short side instead of trying to up my mileage to 5 miles as originally planned - we'll see how it goes : ) Am going to shoot for 1500cal today and around 60min of cardio.

What's everyone else aiming for today?

Boo Hah - I feel like :dracula: hardly slept, up at 4AM and then fell back asleep and now I don't have enough time to workout. And I'm grouchy enough to draw blood from anyone who pees me off today - and I haven't even left the house yet. And I ate bad last night, skipped dinner and I feel like dog poo. I did well all day until I left work and had to pick up treats for my pod and then I decided I needed some too. It wasn't that bad but the fact is that I gave in, and I skipped a healthy dinner. I know how I feel when I don't eat right and don't work out - I do better even with less than 6 hours sleep which is all I can get these days....I need some tough love...everyone around here just tells me what a good job I am doing and how valuable I am, and I take care of everyone else but my body is sure not showing it :( :( I don't want to crack and I sure felt like it yesterday. I HAVE to make time for some alone time and not just reading and being lazy but even a walk along the seawall to calm myself - why can't I make myself do it???

I'm so frustrated with myself and my choices, I was doing so good. :dunno: I don't want to be like this anymore. And I need this energy to get through the next 12 days.

Anyway I chose to airdry my hair to get on here today and I feel better already. I will have an afro very soon! I will be back at lunch. Thanks for listening!!!!

Hi Ladies -

Lindy - Doesn't Tom just drive you crazy! It's bad enough once a month, but every 2 weeks - come on! I think I am on the down cycle, and I pray it will now be a few weeks before the next visit. It would be nice to feel 'normal', workout for a change, and oh yes, be at my daughters wedding without rushing to the bathroom! LOL......On another note, I feel better, however still under financial ****. Yes, no jobs yet. My poor husband......it's like **** everyday battling for a position against hundreds of other applicants. It really sucks, because he has never needed a 'job' before, since he was a Navy Seal and then owned his own business..........ahhhh, life changes I guess. It will work out, just need to be positive.......;-)

Lindy - Man, that sub sounds delicious! Can I havea bite......lol.....You made it exactly the way I do......and yes, that includes the Provolone! LOL......It sounds like you had a killer workout........hope you burned a few for me!

AJ - Eat some carbs! There are good carbs and bad carbs........and I would venture to say you need some......lol. Remember, don't deprive yourself because this is not a diet, it's a lifestyle change for life. I know you don't want to deprive yourself for life, so try eating the things you enjoy just less and not as often. Be careful with the detox, and be especially careful that your body is getting the nutrients it needs.

Dance - Wow, major party girl......lol. I love a good book, and am out of good books...........;-( I was actually thinking of reading Eat, Pray, Love again. I loved it the first time I read it, which was 2 years ago. Hope your day is good!

Staccie - A walk on the beach sounds perfect, and I wish I were there with you to take it. I hope you did and I also hope today is less stressful and more relaxed. Breathe girl! LOL.........

Well, I ate last night, but not horribly. I guess the stress I am under got to me, so I had a bowl of cereal.......not one, but two - maybe three? LOL......Anyway, my weight was still down this morning and I will do better today. I have a goal of breaking my plateau and getting down to 210 by this Sunday, so I need to kick it into gear.

Have a great morning.

Stacie- snap out of it girl! Ok, you had a an "off" night...unless you robbed a Baskin Robins...lol...you CAN rebound from this and see a weight loss for Sunday, its only mid week. Now, what to do about this whole exercise thing? See...I was strongly behind you getting your sleep bc you would be getting a work out a work but I almost think that the workout helps your frame of mind? I could be wrong..just saying. Could you buy a yoga DVD? That would help you incorporate fitness, will relax you on your restless night and help our overall peace of mind.

Mygrits - wow...is it that soon to your daughters wedding..how time flies. How many pounds do you need to lose to get to 210? Are you eating a big breakfast? Maybe you should try to change your current routine and see if that helps with the late night eating. I consider myself soooo lucky that I do not have this issue. I dont know why but Im most hungry in the morning, around 9 am...thats my challenge. But even if I indulge, I still have the whole day to burn it off or push myself to do more exercise, so I guess thats good. I KNOW thats what I am going to have to do today because I just added my calories and I am already at 1100 and I still have quite a bit of time in the day...god help me. This sucks bc I have a date tomorrow and wanted to make sure I didnt feel "bloated"...grrr....oh well, what can ya do. I know...I can stop eating but, its just one of those days.

mygrits - that must be so tough worrying about jobs. I know you mentioned it before but what kind of work is your hubby looking for? And you're looking for an office job, right? Do you have a linkedin account? I find that to be a great way to network and that might help you find out about openings before they're publicly posted.

Staccie - HUGS!!! - So sorry it's a tough day!! Do you have a freezer at your office? If so, can you keep some frozen meals (like healthy choice or something) there to make life easier? And as far as treats for your workmates, my old boss brought in a huge thing of clementines (cuties, those little tangerines) and people scarfed through them so fast it was incredible so it's possible that your workmates might also enjoy some tasty but on the healthy side stuff that might make the temptations a little less for you. I've brought costco packs of little bags of nuts and a box of mixed fruit leathers to meetings before and they've gone over well too. Another idea for keeping your sanity at work - a buddy of mine used to go for what he would call a lap of the building when he got really stressed out (a walk around the outside of our office complex - probably 10 min or so). His logic was that a quick walk would help him buckle down and work better. Is that something you could sneak in once or twice a day to burn off steam and a few calories? Or maybe walk up and down in the stairwell? I do that at work when it's too icy to run in the winter. So sorry it's so hard right now - hang in there!

Ok, I better get running or it will never happen.... Later, girls....

Hi girls, I had a minute and thought I would check in. I am behind 4 pages and not going to try to read it all right now. We have a bus day planned, its my friends birthday. We are heading to Woodstock tomorrow. I am so excited.

The first day I was here we werent up for cooking, so we got food from the Italian restaurant my friend works at. We thought we would try the battered cauliflower. Wow was that a bad idea. I have indegestion all night, we made a late night fun to walmart for some pepto. So my body is used to me putting healthy things in it and rejected the deep fried stuff. So we had vegetarian lasagna last night, having salad for lunch today. Gotta eat yummy healthy things.

I hope everyone is having a good week. I should be back regularly on Saturday night. I hope I will have at least maintained on Sunday. I dont have room to do 30ds here, my friends are artists, so they have a lot of projects everywhere. I am getting some walking in. I am sure we will walk a lot tomorrow. I will try to check in again before I leave, if not I will catch up with everyone on Sunday.

Hello Ladies!

Lindy - I am sure the sub tasted much better than gnawing on your hand would have tasted!!lol You make me laff! Hope the rest of the day goes well!

Dancing ~ Now are you hurting in a good way or bad way? I hope it's in a good way. As for living in Mexico.. I lived in San Jose Del Cabo on and off for 3 years, and did a bit of time La Paz. Took Polo Ponies down every winter. Never been to mainland Mexico.

Staccie ~ You just need a big ole (((((HUG)))). You can get through the next 12 days. Just make today the new start. The past is done and over with. You can't do anything to change it. But you CAN do things to make the next 12 days great. So go for beautiful along the sea wall and refocus and regroup... and BREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEATHHHHHHHHEEEEEE....

Mygrits ~ I hope things work out for your Hubby. It's hard going from Self Employed to suddenly needing a "job". I've been there... it's hard. My thoughts are with you two. I will burn a candle tonite for luck! And did I hear CEREAL?? I will bing on Honey Nut Cheerios!!! Yeah just cant have one bowl. They are almost as bad as Taterchips!

Hiya Burgundy!! What are 30d's? All these shortforms I have to learn!!lol Enjoy your trip!

I got up nice and early today and went to the farmer's market and the asian market and stocked up on all healthy good stuffus. Going to go pick fresh veggies out of my garden in a bit. Rain starts again tomorrow.. that sucks..

OK..time to get cleaning again!!!

See evryone tomorrow..or maybe later this evening!!

Hotsplashes - Haven't been to baja at all but would love to try sea kayaking there sometime - it sounds beautiful. 30DS is Jillian Michaels' thirty day shred workout video and I think I'm one of the few on this board that isn't doing it at the moment, mainly because I'm focused on running and hiking this summer, but I may pick it up when the weather turns.

burgundy - glad you're having fun! Safe travels...

Guys, I ran for 5 miles today! First time I've run that long since college so I'm pretty psyched! So exhausted though....

Dance - DID YOU EVER KNOW THAT YOUR MY HERO...YOUR EVERYTHING I WISH I COULD BE! LOL...5 miles, wow...I am so happy and jealous for you!

Hotsplashes- your lucky you can go to the farmers market any day, I wish I could do that. I have to stock up on Saturdays only, then if I am busy on a Saturday, I miss out and have to but things from the grocery store, which absolutely sucks. Anyway...30DS is a kick butt work out by Jillian Michaels, however...it is so incredibly hard to stick to. I made it 16 days straight and threw in the towel...:( It works, its just hard to do.

Anyway...ok, Im not exactly proud of my food day but it could be alot worst and thats the way I see it. This is where I am:

5am- protein bar
8 am- slim fast shake, I KNOW...but that was the only thing in the fridge at work that my gf was willing to share, lol...go figure.

930 am- I gave into my turkey and provoline 6 inch sub

11 am - I gave into the other half of my turkey sub...lol

1230- fiber one bar

3 - navy bean soup

The rest of the day I am going to try and make fruits and veggies, god help me. lol. I am also going to get a long run in this afternoon, I dont care if its raining, lol...I have easily consumed 1800 calories already, once again...could be a lot worst but still, way over my range.

Lindy - you are such a hoot! And you have such a special gift for making people feel good - hope everyone around you appreciates that! Given how early your day started, it doesn't seem like you're doing that bad. Lots of fruits and veggies sounds like a good plan for the rest of the day though. Are you having any luck figuring out why some days are so much hungrier than others? I certainly haven't cracked the code yet.

I've been taking some fiber chewables lately that might be helping on the appetite control front (they come in sugarfree strawberry and orange tablets - kind of a weird texture when you chew them but pleasant fruit flavors) - in theory they make you feel more full so you eat less. Seemed like more fiber was generally a good idea anyway so I've been giving it a shot. Anyone else tried these?

Hiya Chickies,
Work was so crazy today that I didn't get my "fix" during the day. I spent over 3 hours in meetings (fun!...yep, that's sarcasm).

Staccie: Hope your day/week improves. It seems that the stress is starting to become overwhelming. I would try to do what Dancer suggested and try to take a mini "mental health" break just so you can regroup.

Lindy: The sub sounded soooo good. I hope you're able to get your jog in tonight.

Dancer: WAHOOOOOOOOO on 5 miles! Holy cow! :bravo: I hope to be able to do that one day, I've never done it, but we'll see what the future brings. I am so impressed!

Hotsplashes: To answer your question, Bear Naked is a brand of granola here in the States (not sure about Canada). They make different flavors, but it's SO GOOD over yogurt. I have the fruit and nut kind..very filling with fruit and yogurt. My own little creation, but it works.

Ate prettty well today, here we go:

Did the usual blueberries with yogurt and granola but was starving by 11:30. Went to Jason's Deli for lunch and had a chicken panini (with pesto sauce and fresh tomatoes and spinach). Totally yummy. For dinner I had a WW meal, so I'm done for the night. Had some veggies for a snack mid-afternoon. Not too shabby.

Went to the gym last night and worked out with my new trainer. He's totally cute (and his last name is Hott, go figure). He's super nice and gave me a tough workout, which is what I needed because I was getting complacent. So, he's giving me new strength training and cardio workouts and I am definitely feeling it today. His goal was to basically fatigue my muscles, and he sure did his job! He has me doing eliptical and now adding the stairclimber to my cardio workout so my body doesn't get used to the cardio workout. We'll see, but so far so good. I go back with him on Monday.

Have a great night ladies!

Dance- 5 Miles running?!? You are a rockstar, great job!!

Stacie- Awww…big hugs!! You can get a hold of this beast! Just like the advice I got recently from a friend--- don’t stand in your own way :) We’ll be here to catch you if you fall, but we’ll push you back up to be stronger.

MyGrits- I’m praying good jobs come your way soon for yourself and your hubby!

Maddie- I want a trainer named Hott that would fatigue me…I mean, my muscles :) Great job on your workout tonight!

I’ve been running around in meetings and getting product for a presentation this week. I brought in a couple of protein shakes to help while running from one area to another..and then I was able to have lunch with a good friend today. I didn’t do too bad, I had a turkey sandwich and 3 chips—ha ha, I had that so I didn’t feel deprived and gorge on something later.

Well, I need to get my weight training in tonight—have a good a night ladies!

Vicky - Ok, had to comment on Mr. Hott - That is what I need.......lol.....I mean for a good workout......lol.........I mean trainer....in the gym. Yes, I think I could do cardio and weight training with a Mr. Hott! You go girl. Get your monies worth!

Dance - Haven't seen those fiber chews or gum....where do you get them? I am so proud of you doing 5 miles....that is totally awesome. I know you will lose this week!

BacktoBasics - Thank you for the well wishes. Today was another tough one, but we can only try to go forward and not let us get depressed - been there done that. Thanks again.

Today was OK with food, but not great. I think my calories ended up around 1500. No workout, just too emotionally drained for that. I pray tomorrow I can do more. I need get out early and put in a couple of more resumes. I wish, I wish we were in a bit city now - the job market is so much better than in "poor little Deland." lol.....

Lindy- I had a bed food day too. It wouldn't be that bad if I were counting calories today but because of the cleanse... bad.

Dancer- I have always been a strong supporter of extra fiber. It is so good for you.

Vicky- I def want you to share your stud... I mean trainer. I need one of those to motivate me.

Basics- Great job with lunch! I wish I could stop myself like that. I can't even start!

Sandy- I really do feel for you. I have been looking for work in a "bigger" city for a year with a pretty nice resume. I really hope you find something soon!! NETWORK NETWORK NETWORK!!

Goodnight pretty girls. I am off to bed after having a great day shopping with my other half best friend. I had a great day that ended with a footlong subway sub in my tummy. Oh well. Tomorrow is a new day and it wasn't that bad i guess. **Hugsss and wishes for a good day tomorrow**

I'm up and it's quiet in here ;-)

AJ - How's the cleanse? Not to good with eating subs......lol. When my husband did it, it worked but he had many days with an upset stomach, and also had flu-like symptoms....lethargic, body aches.... The only thing missing was a fever. After 7 to 10 days though, he did feel much better and was down approximately 5-6 lbs. I have never done one, and after watching him........I don't think I am up for it......LOL......

Well, it's sounds like you have been looking for a job longer than me. It's just different now. When I lived in Orlando I could find a job quick, like in a couple of days. I also remember the days when two law firms were bidding for me........ahhhhh, that was then and this is now. It's crazy and I thought maybe it was tougher because this town is just so small, and I am older. I am up for doing anything to bring money in.......well, not anything......lol. I wish you the best and eat healthy today!

Well, I was up early 6:30am to be exact - haven't done that in a long time.....reminds me of when I was raising children and having to be to work by 7:45! I did weigh today - just curious and I was down....Woo Hoo! I was actually 3.6 lbs less......gosh I hope it says that on Sunday! That would be awesome. Anyway, getting in the shower to put those resumes out.

Have a great day everyone.

mygrits - 3.6lbs! That's great - good for you! And up early too! Did you manage to sneak in any exercise? The chewable fiber tablets are Fiber Choice brand and are in the grocery store by the other fiber products like metamucil and stuff. Let me know if you decide to give them a try.

aj - so a partial cleanse is still good, right? You're just taking short breaks from it - that's all : )

back2basics - sounds like you are planning for success - way to go!

maddiesmom - love the 'mr hott, the trainer' story - sounds like something out of a sitcom! : )

You guys doing strength training impress me so much - I'm such a wimp about that stuff - I'm having a hard time making myself do the occasional (and I do mean occasional) pushup even though I had intended to make that a daily routine. How do you guys make yourselves do it? I could use a push!

Did okay but just barely foodwise - ended up eating some dove dark chocolates for a total of 1700 cal for the day, partially offset by running. Hoping to be more disciplined today although am not planning on any exercise as I'm still whupped from yesterday : ) What's everyone else got planned for today?

Wow, slow board today. So, this morning I am still sore from Mr. Hott - what can ya do? My legs are super stiff and my abs are so sore that it hurts to cough or sneeze. Kinda comical if you think about it.

Well, today I turned down pizza! The department ordered it for lunch, but instead I had a chicken sandwich on a whole wheat bun and some minestrone soup.

Dance: Well, what gets me to going to the strength training is actually just getting a trainer. Missy really pushed me and now Mr. Hott does, and it does get easier. I read somewhere that if you do lift weights, your body continues to burn calories long after you stop lifting. Plus, the results (losing inches) has really been a good incentive. I think what held me back before was not knowing how to use the machines, or looking like a dork trying to figure them out. Since the trainer shows you how to do this, and how to properly use the equipment - it's easy.

Well, I'll check back later. Have a great afternoon. I'm starting to get a sore throat, so fingers crossed that I'm not getting sick.

Hi ladies!

Thanks for the great advice, support and push. I ended up having an ok day yesterday, left work around 7 and was asleep by 8. I woke up at 1 with a ton of things on my mind so I wrote them all down and then fell back asleep. For eating I did fairly well - I had a shake and banana, grilled chicken and veggies, a small bag of chips (the 100 calorie ones), a few hershey hugs (I needed hugs and although it's only my butt that really benefitted it made me smile and I didn't eat the whole bag), and then cereal. The idea of leaving the frozen healthy choices is a great idea, I don't have a freezer or fridge on venue but I can do that after. It's right next to a Costco so I can go over and get yummy salads and chicken.

Just wanted to say thank you to everyone...it really helps having the support and people understanding. Will be back later after my meetings end at 530.

I really appreciate all of you!

maddiesmom - hope you can ward off the cold - maybe a bunch of vitamin c and chicken soup would help? I really admire your commitment to the gym workouts - that might be step 2 for me, once I get rid of most of the extra weight or something.

staccie - glad you left work yesterday at a more reasonable time! And how handy having a costco right there. Ok - no fridge or freezer - hmmm.... I keep a couple of cans of progresso light soup in my desk for the days that I either forget to bring lunch or can't get out to grab something - would that work at all? If there's no microwave either, that's tough. I'm addicted to kashi TLC peanut peanut butter bars but they may not be to your taste. Hope the rest of the day isn't too long!

Doing okay foodwise so far but a little concerned about dinner tonight - I'm going out with some girls from work (unless we need to reschedule) and we're going to a thin-crust pizza place. I'm hoping to get a salad and have a slice of pizza but we'll see.

Kind of quiet out there today - hope everyone is doing well! I'm down another pound today so two more until I'm in the 160s - am going to do my best to get there ASAP!

Staccie: Another option for the frozen meals (if you have a microwave on sight)...I keep one of those "blue" freezer packs in an insulated lunch bag and it stays frozen until lunchtime. If not, Costco salads sounds like a good alternative.

Lindy - Girl, where are you? Did you have your date last night or is that tonight? Hope works not too crazy and that everything's alright :

Hey girls-

Sorry...yes, today WAS my date day and it was supposed to be tonight to but we ended it early...grrr...so just guess how that went? Im not going to get into the details but me and Mr. Sweet 16 hit a road block. Of course...but of course...he couldnt be THAT perfect. Anyway...we will see what happens in the next few days bc I asked him to leave. So...anyway...I wish I could say that yesterday got better but it didnt, I ate...and ate...and ate...nothing TOO unhealthy but still, nothing Im proud of. Today was better...Um, egg whites...fruit...garden salad with grilled chicken...protein bar, 2 of them actually...and a small handful of cheese nips (I couldnt resist).

Maddiesmom - I am so envious of you and your trainer. The stair climber is killer! I got away from doing it but started this week and it never seems to fail me everytime...I hate it, but love it, lol.

Mygrits - I know its not exactly economical but for the time being, is there a possibility that either one of you can look for work in Orlando? The commute would suck for sure but maybe that would be a good quick fix? Idk...just trying to think of some ideas.

Dance - wow, your program is just melting those pounds off of you...your soooo close. I cant wait to do a happy dance for you. I will be happy when Im under 180, 170 would put me at my lowest since 3 years ago...so...close, just not close enough. Good luck!

Ok...Im gonna go rest. I did 10 minutes on the treadmill, 15 on the stair climber and then took a 40 minute spinning class...so Im am whooped!

Hey girls. I'm doing great with my diet. I went to lunch and a movie with my dad today. We stopped at panera bread and I got veggie soup and an apple. I was full afterward. I just looked at the panera website and it was only 120 calories. Thats crazy. I may make this a weekly habit. It was really good.

I hate when I get this close to being under 200. I get so anxious. I just gotta stay with it. I have to reach my 199 goal so I can pamper myself. I would love to be 185-190 by the time hubby gets done with basic. He graduates October 22nd. I have 56 days to get it done!

Neesy - you are cranking! You can totally meet your goal - 2lbs a week is doable if you're super disciplined and it sounds like you are. Nicely done at lunch - soup can really help with the calorie count for the day, can't it? Keep up the good work and onederland is all yours!

Lindy - sounds like you're right back on plan - good for you! Sorry the date didn't end the way you wanted. Either it was meant to be and you'll work it out or it wasn't a good fit and it's better to find out early, right? Either way - it's not what you were looking forward to today so I'm sorry for your disappointment - HUGS! Now, if you can avoid emotional eating in the aftermath, that would be REALLY impressive! The 170s are right within reach for you - mere days away - you can totally do this, and what a nice distraction from boys anyway to focus on yourself!

I don't know if you guys consider this cheating but I only record my lows - not when the scale fluctuates back upward (as it does, quite often, by a few pounds based on who-knows-what). So, say, if tomorrow the scale shows 173 (or whatever) I just ignore it and stick to plan till it goes back to the low again and so far it always has. It's way too depressing for me to acknowledge any upward ticks if I'm sticking to plan. If off plan, well, that'd be a whole other ballgame, I guess. Am I the only one playing these mindgames? : )

Dance I do the same thing.. I look at an overall progress. I look at my weight everyday, which fluctuates day to day but stays in the same general area. I take my weight on sunday as fact though

Hiya Ladies, Just a short note today. Incredibly stressful... One of those days .. "If anything can go wrong.. it will.." and it did.. but hopefully I have done damage control..I will find out tomorrow.

I will admit that I stressed out and ate a big bowl of icecream..i feel really horrid now.. not agreeing with my tummy...

See everyone tomorrow!!

Maddiesmom - Hope your feeling better. Take lots of Vitamin C and Echinacea (tablet & herb) and you should be able to keep that cold away. I sending healthy thoughts your way.

Lindy - Awwww, so sorry about Mr. 16......really feel bad the date ended that way, but I do give you huge kudo's for standing your ground! Like Dance said, if it works it works, if not it is better to know early on. I'm thinking about you and stay out of the chocolate!!!! Grrrrrr....... On another note, I have thought of commuting to O'ville....it would be about 40 minutes to get there and there and then of course getting off the highway to the destination could be another 20 to 30 depending on traffic....soooooooo....I have been peeking in Daytona. I would have look farther sooner, but we are down to one vehicle, which really limits what I can do. I have been lookng slower hoping Mike could find something first, then I would know the schedule I needed to work around. However, we are sooooo tight on funds now, or should I say 'out of funds' that I have looking whereever. I really sucks and today I just cried, as did he. He really feels like he has failed all of us, and that is so far from the truth. He is our rock, and can't help the economic situation. Anyway, thank you for your suggestion and it still may have to happen.

Neesy - You are just kicking a** girl! Wow, I am so proud of you and you WILL be in the 190's before your husband gets home. He is going to be soooo proud of you, as I am!

Dance - I wish I was as strong as you with the scale, and could do the 'mind-game.' However, I get pissed when the scale does that, and many times it causes me to munch. Grrrrrrrrrrr......I also wish I didn't weigh each morning, but curiousity gets the best of me. ;-)

Hotsplashes - Your day must have been like mine......sorry. Ice cream huh? That would so be my downfall, so I can't keep it in the house. lol........Hope tomorrow is better for you.

Today was tough, and I am hungry, but I am trying to be good........pray I can behave for the night! LOL.........I will, I will, I will..........I will try.........;-)

Hotsplashes- I am so sorry about your day!I hope that today does not run into tomorrow and you can get a handle on the stress and the ice cream. *HUG*

Neesy- You can so accomplish that by then. I know it seems so hard and right around the corner but it is very reasonable.

Lindy- Thats awful about your date. I hope it was just a speed bump and if not I hope you find a Mr. Sweet 18. lol. Good job eating well today.

Dancer- If the scale says 173 and I think I am 170... I eaither have to find another scale, drink a ton of water or hide all food with in a 4 mile radius!! I am impressed you can just keep on trucking.

Sandy- I am praying for you! I was so bad I want you to have a solid night so that I can be proud of one of us!! Maybe just sleep?

I baby sat for 2 wonderful kids I had never met before today. 12 hours @ there house in the mountains and I forgot the food I packed. So 1 hotdog, chips, 2 bananas and 5 huge spinach raviolies later... I feel bloated and worn very thin. The good news is they were fantastic kids so it just made me even more baby/child happy (*BAD. NO. NO BABIES YET!!*)

On top of my long and horrible food-wise day I whitnessed the nastiest motercycle/dump truck accident on the way home. I mean I REALLY saw it. And I think... He was on his way home to tuck in his kids, kiss his wife and walk the dog. Then I start to cry. Now I am bloated, sick and sad. Yeah. great day. =)

AJ, Hotsplashes, Sandy: So sorry for your horrible days. Foodwise, stresswise and other. Lindy: Sorry about your date, what's meant to be is meant to be. Better to know sooner rather than later.

So, I'm going to make this a quick post...I am exhausted, it's 11:15 pm, I still have to dry my hair and get to bed. I'm still sore from Mr. Hott's workout, but I thought doing some cardio and stretching the muscles would help....so, I went to the gym at 8:30 tonight and did 15 minutes on the treadmill and then 20 minutes on the stairmaster. Boy, that thing is a pain in the arse!! (Literally!!) I burned 200 calories in 20 minutes. We'll see whether or not I can walk tomorrow!

Good night!

Hi ladies,

Well I am off to the venue and won't have much access to a computer for the next 4-5 days - I will miss you but will log on when I can :)

Hugs, S

Thanks girls for the love...after yesterday, I did indulge in chocolate chip cookie dough but it was actually factored into my calories so although not a smart decision, at least I didnt go over. I think I have decided to close the chapter of Mr. Sweet 16, there are not strings attached, we are not a formal couple, so now would be the best time. I am so glad that I move slow in relationships in every way...if you know what I mean. If anything changes Ill keep you posted but I couldnt agree with you more Dance...I think I need to step away from "boys" right now and focus on me. I CAN and WILL get to my goal by the end of this year. It is doable and that is my focus, well..that and Gab.

Dance - I TOTALLY do the same thing, unless it is Sunday. If its Sunday, then I just record what the scale says. But today I was up, but Im not going to change it...trust me, you are not alone.

Mygrits - oh how I wish and pray things turn around for you; as Im sure they will. :hug:

Neesy - you are on top of the world...keep up the good work girly. How are your workouts going with your work schedule lately? Are you still able to do the gym just as much?

Awww....AJ - I just saw your post. Im so sorry you had such a rotten day. Maybe you should detour from the fasting for now? Like I said in a previous post, the fasting took such a toll on my body and emotions. I know the end result is supposed to make you feel better but it just made me feel horrible. Anyway - I hope things turn around for you by weigh in on Sunday, your doing so well, we need to keep you on track.

Morning, all!
Staccie - lots of luck on venue - we'll miss you! Is this kind of like a pre-olympics drill? I wish I understood your job a bit more - it sounds super interesting! I bet you'll get lots of exercise running around and the weight will just melt off : )

AJ - I'm so so sorry about your seeing the accident - how very upsetting. When something bad happens around you, it seems like a really good time to realize how lucky we are to have our loved ones close so give your hubby an extra hug today and send some emails to old friends and far away relatives to let them know how much you care about them. Hang in there, sweetie! And your scale comment just cracked me up - I love your sense of humor!

maddiesmom - good for you on the cardio workout!!

mygrits - right there with you on the daily weighing, except for those days when I know I majorly screwed up the day before then I slink around like a dog that knows it's going to be punished and pretend the scale's not even there : ) I'm so sorry this is such a tough time but things WILL get better and one of you will find a job. big giant hugs!

hotsplashes - yikes! hope you've bounced back after the ice cream incident - and that today will be a much better and less stressfull day for you!

neesy - oh good - I like not being crazy all by myself! : )

lindy - You have so got this, girlfriend! I actually started my whole weight loss thing this time around when my longtime bf was in one of his mood swings where we're basically not together. I decided this time that I was going to focus on myself and be constructively selfish, if that makes sense, by getting healthier. He's popped out of the mood and things have been great but even when/if it happens again, I've made a promise to myself that I deserve the attention from myself that it takes for me to stay on plan. NO MORE emotional/comfort eating - that whole '2 seconds on the lips, a lifetime on the hips' thing couldn't be more true in my case : )

So I'm down another pound this morning which is kind of amazing since I went for pizza with the girls last night but I think the whole portion control thing has gotten so much easier that I can actually even think about going out to normal restaurants without it causing a complete and total diet melt-down. ONE MORE POUND to the 160s - now I'm so nervous about hitting a plateau - not sure I can handle that mentally. Off to run before it gets hot - gotta kick this extra pound to the curb....

Have a great day, all!

Holycrapola Dance...another pound? Gosh...I just want to piggy back on your whole routine, whats the lowest and highest you go in calories? I know your doing calorie cycling..are you on a strict pattern?

Lindy - nothing fancy, really - just following your advice from months ago to not let your body get too used to anything. (Calorie levels for the last week or so Fri:1486 Sat: 1459 Sun:1909 Mon: 1776 Tues: 1694 Weds: 1540 and I think that's pretty typical). And unlike a lot of you, I'm not focused on strength training at all - just cardio so I'm not building a bunch of muscle that adds healthy weight and probably makes it seem like you're losing more slowly than you really are. On Sundays when we do a hike I'm usually between 1800-2200. The lowest is usually around 1400 or 1350 but usually not much below that. Exercise is still about the same as before - running 4x/wk for about an hour and one hike (usually 2-3hrs) on the weekends. I think having improved my running speed over time so that I burn more calories in that hour has helped a bit. What is your routine/eating plan right now?

One other little thing - I made a plan at the beginning of June as part of another challenge thread and said what my goal weight was for each week and I've been tracking against that. I'm slightly ahead of goal now but most of the time, I've been tracking to it pretty closely. Knowing exactly where I wanted to be each week and adjusting eating/exercise as needed to make that goal has really helped. Don't laugh too hard but I've now extended that plan all the way to our Costa Rica trip in January. Since you guys have helped me out so much, I'll share my whole plan (black is plan, red is actual - again, try not to crack up too much : ) ) I track my weight every day (ignoring those upward ticks) on a spreadsheet where I have my goals listed.

June 8:190: 190
June 15:188: 189
June 22:188: 188
June 29:186: 187
July 6:184: 184
July 13:182: 181
July 20:182: 179
July 27:180: 178
Aug 3:178: 178
Aug 10:176: 176
Aug 17:176: 174
Aug 24:174: 172
Aug 31:172
LABOR DAY Sept 7: 170
Sept 12 wear bridesmaids dress: 168
Sep 21: 167
Sep 28: 166
Oct 5: 165
Oct 12: 163
Oct 19: 162
Oct 26: 160
Nov 2: 158
Nov 9: 156
Nov 16: 154
Nov 23: 152
Nov 30: 152
Dec 7: 150
Dec 14: 149
Dec 21: 149
Dec 28: 148
Jan 4: 147
Jan 11: 146

Dance - Very cool. I love your stradegy and it reminds me of what I did a couple of years ago when I lost all my weight. I did weekly goals written down, and did whatever it took to meet it. I think I need to do that again - big time. The calorie cycling is what I have always done, and it works beautifully. My downfall with losing now is stress and not doing my cardio daily. Your my hero Dance ;-) Thanks, as you have caused me to refocus!

Well, today is so - so. I haven't worked out (ahhh, hint my above comment) but think I might swim laps in a bit. I haven't done that in a couple of weeks, due to TOM taking over......lol. My calories aren't bad, right now around 550. My daughter will be here later today.......yeah! She and her Navy buddy want me to go to Sea World tomorrow, so we will see. I am not sure if I am up for that, just because of the stress right now. I don't know.......?????

I hope everyone is having a wonderful Thursday........Staccie, we will miss you the next few days......;-(