Chicks up for a Challenge - Even Sexier by Thanksgiving Challenge!

Hello everyone!

:welcome: to the Sexier by Thanksgiving Challenge!

:turkey:

This is a continuation of the "Sexy by Labor Day" Challenge, but if you're new, please feel free to join in on the fun, as this challenge is open to anyone and everyone!

We have just over 11 weeks until Thanksgiving... let's make every day of those 11 weeks count!!

Every week you'll weigh in with your current weight and progress toward your goal. If you've already met your goal weight, why not challenge yourself to eat on plan for 11 weeks, exercise for a certain amount of time, or any other healthy challenge you can think of?


GOOD LUCK EVERYONE!

:thanks2:

Ok here is my first post... a little about myself...

I'm married, live in Colorado, and started running back in February, which accounts for 99% of my weight loss so far. I'm two lbs away from reaching that 50 lbs lost mark, but those two pounds are being so stubborn!

My goal for Thanksgiving is to lose 15 lbs which would put me at 150 lbs. Normally I might be more ambitious but my weight loss has slowed in the past few weeks so I'm thinking it's better to be conservative just in case. ;)

Soooo....

Starting weight: 165
Current weight: 165
Goal weight: 150

My plan is to just continue doing what I'm doing...eating low calorie and running 4-5 days a week.

Good luck, everyone!

Count me in!

I have a fantastic boyfriend and an even more fantastic son. I love eating healthy but have trouble controlling myself around certain foods. I love exercising, but I've been having a lot of foot problems lately. My first big goal is to get down to my pre-pregnancy weight of 200. Imagining the 220s is crazy! I haven't been there since I was 5 months pregnant (I went from 200 to 285). I will weigh in on Mondays.

Start (09/07/09): 249.4
Current: 249.4
Goal: 229.8

Count me in too :D I'm Karen and am married. I lost a lot of weight several years ago and gained most of it back. I am back on track losing again. Our treadmill was not working and we finally have it fixed. I am working my way through the C25K program (Week 4 Day 2 tomorrow).

I weigh in on Sundays and will report then. My goal is to lose 22 pounds over the next 11 weeks :carrot:

SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8

Morning, ladies! I'm so in!
I'm from Colorado, have a long-term boyfriend, and have been running and counting calories to lose the weight so far. For my last group challenge, I found a week-by-week plan helped get me motivated so here's mine for the next 11 weeks. I hope to lose 15lbs total.
Sept 12: 170
Sep 21: 169
Sep 28: 168
Oct 5: 166
Oct 12: 164
Oct 19: 163
Oct 26: 162
Nov 2: 160
Nov 9: 159
Nov 16: 157
Nov 23: 155

Hey there! I would love to join in this challenge. I'm Akshata, 26 and currently live in Redondo Beach, CA (technically in LA, but doesn't feel like it). I am living with my boyfriend of over 5 years. My highest weight has been at almost 290 and my healthiest adult weight was like 177. I'm tired of going back and forth up and down and I know that its REALLY bad for me. I am currently at 248.2 and my goal for this challenge is to lose 5% of my weight, which will put me at 235.8. Since Thanksgiving is over 2 months away, I KNOW I can do this.

Hi girls! It's nice to see the old crew and great to see all of the newcomers we have! Welcome to you all!

A little about me: I'm 24, in my 2nd year of medical school, single (aka dating around) and living in LA (like Akshata!). My highest weight in college was about 170 and then I settled into the 150's for the past couple of years. In April, something clicked and I realized I wanted to change myself inside and out, so I completely changed the way I eat (never was super unhealthy but am waaaay more health-conscious now), monitored my calories, worked out every day (running, spinning, yoga). Now, I've been maintaining my loss for about 2 months but never managed to reach my ultimate goal of 130.

My body seems to be comfortable where it is but lately I've really let my cravings get the best of me and I'm not happy with my mindset about food and my body, so I'm settling back into weight loss mode and really trying to get down to 130. Not sure if it'll be possible to lose 9 pounds in 11 weeks because the last few are so painfully slow to come off, but I'll take anything under 135!

Also, I'm getting more and more serious about running and am absolutely loving it, so a big part of my goal is to keep pushing myself and train hard for my 10K in October and my half marathon in February!

I'll weigh in on Mondays like we did in the last challenge. Looking forward to spending the next 11 weeks (and hopefully more!) with all of you!

SW (9/7): 139
GW: 130

Hi girls! I'm pretty new to this site, and I would love to join this challenge. I am a new mom (Grace is 6 weeks today). I am looking to lose the last of my baby weight plus a little bit more. I am going to try to lose 10 lbs (about a pound a week) by Thanksgiving. I will weigh in on Mondays. Good luck everyone!

Hello all,

Greetings to old friends and welcome to new ones! This is blue ridge girl - I live in central Virginia, I'm 29 years old. Since January 1, I've lost 25 pounds. Yay! But as you can see by my goals listed below, I've got a ways to go. I was hoping to make it to onderland by labor day, but have been sitting at a plateau for two months - hey, on the bright side I'm maintaining my loss which is great. So I definitely want to be in onderland by Thanksgiving, and with an eye to getting to my next mini-goal which is 191, which is when I am officially not 'obese' according to the BMI calculator. But since I've been at a plateau and been struggling, I think it's best to make 199 my goal for Thanksgiving so I am not being too ambitious. A pound a week would be great progress since I've been 'stuck.' I've been writing down everything I eat which is my best way to keep myself accountable.

So, inspired by Dancer, I've laid out where I want to be each week:
9/13 - 210
9/20 - 209
9/27 - 208
10/4 - 207
10/11 - 206
10/18 - 205
10/25 - 204
11/1 - 203
11/8 - 202
11/15 - 201
11/22 - 200
11/26 (thanksgiving) - 199.5 officially onderland!

Have a great day all! Looking forward to losing with you!

Blueridge - Having the weekly goals I swear has magic motivational powers!! So what's your eating and exercise plan to lose that pound a week?

A small NSV for me: I'm happily wearing a new pair of size 12 pants today for the first time (probably seems huge to some of you but when I started in May I was wearing 16s or even 18s).

What's everyone eating today?
Since writing down my plan helps me stick to it, here's what I have in mind:
B: Yogurt, raspberries
L: Chicken, green beans, fruit
Snack: Apple
D: Tilapia, broccoli, brown rice

Hope everyone is doing well!

Turning30 -Welcome! And a big congrats on the new teeny tiny addition to your family! We're happy to have you here.

Blueridge - You've been doing such a great job and your positive attitude is always inspiring. I just know you'll make it to onederland soon, but regardless, you should definitely be proud of your maintenance!

Dancer - Size 12 is awesome!!! Wearing a smaller size is always such a confidence booster so you wear it proud and show off your hot bod! :)

I always plan out a rough idea for what I eat but I leave a little wiggle room to alternate between certain snacks depending on my mood. The past few days have been great though, very on plan and I'm already down a pound from my birthday overindulgence weekend (phew!). I'm posting here that my goal is to keep this up this level of strictness for a whole week (weekend and all) to hopefully kick this silly habit of eating waaay too much on the weekends. Please help me stick to it! Thanks girls!!

TC - you've totally got this! I know what you mean though - when you have more free time, it's easier to want to snack more. I know you have a super busy life though - do you do most of your studying at home or at the library?

Hooray for size 12's! :carrot: :carrot: Way to go, dancer!!

Welcome to everyone who has joined the challenge so far! I think this is shaping up to be a good one. :)

I also totally agree that having goals helps... mine are usually monthly weight goals. I weigh every day and have been at the same weight for the past 6 days so this may be the first time I don't actually met my monthly goal (159). I'm a good 6 lbs away from it at this point and we're two weeks into September almost.

Oh well..if I weigh less at the end of the month, then that's a good accomplishment!

Here's my food for the day:

Breakfast: cottage cheese, whole wheat crackers
Snack: 1/4cup trail mix
Lunch: Cheese quesadilla on low fat tortilla, 1/2 cup of homemade green chile
Dinner: pot roast and mashed potatoes (sooo looking forward to this! haven't had it since the spring when the weather was still chilly!)

fatpants - Since you are training like a mad woman and building crazy leg muscles, I wouldn't beat yourself up at ALL if you are off a smidge this month!

It's interesting to see what other people's eating plans look like - thanks for sharing!

fatpants - Since you are training like a mad woman and building crazy leg muscles, I wouldn't beat yourself up at ALL if you are off a smidge this month!

It's interesting to see what other people's eating plans look like - thanks for sharing!

I *hope* that's the reason for this latest stall on the scale...! Haven't seen it move since Labor Day and it's getting old! :)

I am leaving on a 2 week cruise on November 21st and would love to lose about 25 pounds before I leave. I am a yo-yo dieter but I am determined to take it off and keep it off this time. I usually don't join forums but decided to give 3 fat chicks a try. I've known about the website for a very long time but decided to go ahead and join today in hopes of getting some encouragement and a little push from everybody. I've given up fast food as of January 1st of this year and boy do I feel better already. I do miss those McDonald's French Fries though. But the weight I've lost so far is worth giving them up.

Hello All! I did the sexy by labor day challenge for a while, but then went MIA. I would like to do this challenge, and this time I am in for the long haul. After I weigh in tomorrow I will set up a goal and weekly goals. Hello again to all those I met in the last challenge, and those who are just starting.

I'm so IN!

Thanksgiving is a big deal in my family, even bigger than Christmas. My sister and her husband will be coming out from San Diego and my uncle from San Francisco. We all gather here in Houston for half a week of family time. (works out great for doing yearly xmas's with the BF's family)

I'd originally hoped to be at goal for Thanksgiving, to surprise my thin-as-a-rail sister. Now I'm just hoping to hit the 150s, about 10 lbs away. That should be doable.

Starting weight: 169
9/8/09: 169
Goal weight: 159

My plan is more of the same. I journal WW points and run 3x/week. I'm training for a 5k on Oct 3, and a 10k on Thanksgiving morning.

I'd love to join this challenge! Here's my story - I'm 34, married and have a 19 month old daughter that keeps me hopping! We just moved to Winston-Salem, NC a month ago and I haven't found a job yet, so I've decided to take advantage of the time off and get my butt back into shape. This challenge is great because it fits in nicely with a vacation I'm going on and need to be bikini ready for!

I agree with Dancer, weekly goals are great motivation for me, so here's my plan (last I checked, my current weight was 135.2 - I'll weight in on Mondays):
Sept 14: 133.8
Sep 21: 132.5
Sep 28: 131.3
Oct 5: 130
Oct 12: 128.8
Oct 19: 127.5
Oct 26: 126.3
Nov 2: 125
Nov 4:fly to Grand Cayman!!!
Nov 9: maintain
Nov 16: maintain
Nov 23:maintain

I plan to make this work by working out with exercise videos from ExerciseTV (Jillian Michael is my favorite because she kicks my butt!), walking/jogging, and not eating junk food.

Here's what I ate today:
Breakfast - 2 ww slices of toast w/ light fake-butter, 1.5 cups coffee
Lunch - 1 cup mac-n-cheese (not so great!), cup of ff milk
Snack - 6 baked tortilla 'scoops' with pico de gallo.
Dinner - 1 stuffed bell pepper made with ground turkey, steamed mixed veggies with I can't believe it's not butter spray, glass of ff milk
Snack - 1 apple, water

I need to eat more fruit and veggies. I need to drink more water.

Today's Workout: Jillian Michaels Quick: No More Trouble Zones (35 minute version).

Good Luck Ladies!

Gatorgirl - Welcome back! No more disappearing on us this time around! :)

Welcome to everyone who stopped by today! This is gonna be a great challenge, I can already tell!

Hi all!

Thanks FP for starting up the new thread! Welcome to all the new members and so nice to see so many familiar faces :)

I've already been thinking about my new goal and hope to shoot for about 155 by Thanksgiving. I'm 32, single, live in Maine, and just my second year of law school. The new school year is KICKING MY BUTT, with classes, next summer's job hunt, law review, teaching assistant all piled on. So I know that a very realistic slow-and-steady goal is the way to go for me. I'm going to post more about this weekend...I like the idea of breaking it down week by week like Dancer and some of you guys have done.

Until now, 2 job apps to finish up before getting off to the gym and class for the day.

Gobble!
kp

Good morning all -

So I put a post on the 'weight loss support' about getting over the hump of a plateau and got some good advice. My plan is to write down EVERYTHING that goes in my mouth and enter it on fitday so that I have a record of calories, fat, carbs, etc. I'm trying to keep carbs at about 40% of my overall caloric intake - it's so easy for that number to get much higher! My success in the past is when I've been trying to balance carbs with protein, so I'm going to focus energy on that. Drinking water like it's going out of style! Avoid eating out and eating after 7 pm. Also, to keep up my exercise routine, although it seems to me that diet has way more to do with my weight loss than exercise.

I had good news on this morning's scale - I had been scarilier (is that a word?) higher, which was probably just water weight or whatever, but today was back down two pounds to where I have been. Confident I can bust through this plateau in September. I can get out of the office a bit today so I'm planning a trip to the gym for my date with the treadmill and elliptical later this morning. My 'reward' for 210 is a massage so I have my eyes on the prize.

Gatorgirl - good to see you again - we missed you!
kpme - welcome back!
And a big welcome to the recent joiners - ladies, we can do this!
Shrinkingamy - You are taking goal setting to new heights of detail with your decimal point goals - they made me smile!
blueridge - I think you'll find food tracking really helpful. Curious to hear how it goes.

What's everyone doing today?

I'm off for a run and am going to try to keep the calories on the extra low side today to make up for what will probably be a tricky long weekend (my friend's wedding out of town - rehearsal dinner, wedding reception, all that not so low cal stuff). I'm bringing a cooler with healthy snacks and will try to make the best choices available. Anyone got any clever suggestions?

Dancer - just make sure you're not really hungry when you arrive at any of the events or it will be tough to keep your portions under control. I'd say decide what you want to splurge on and then focus on having a reasonable amount of that and skip what you're not crazy about - choose if you want to have wedding cake, or a few glasses of wine/champagne, or a certain tasty item from the main course, and then bypass the rest. Focus on socializing and spending time with people since that's what the event is really about, and it's easy to get sidetracked by food. Good luck! I'm sure you'll do great.

I have been having a real problem squeezing in the excercise lately so my goal for today is to do at least 30 minutes of cardio and drink 8-10 glasses of water.

Starting Weight 9/10/08: 265.5
Goal by Thanksgiving: 245.5

One step at a time.

Dancer- I'll use my digital scale as an excuse for my insane decimal pointed goals! Being a numbers person, if I see 138.8, that's SO NOT 138! It's much closer to 139 - but not quite! LOL I probably should seek professional help!

I went back to the doctor for my 6week post-partum checkup Tuesday and was cleared to start exercising again. I have been walking everyday for a few weeks, but now I am adding eliptical workouts everyday. In addition to losing weight, I'm hoping to get rid of the belly that I still have. I tried to do some light abdominal exercises yesterday and was so surprised at how weak my ab muscles are after my C-section. I know I have to be patient, but it is so frustrating to realize how far I have to get back to feeling normal again.

Shrinking Amy - I know what you mean about the decimal points. I am the same way. And I'm a Jillian Michaels fan too - I do 30 day shred video, but haven't tried any of her other ones.

Rocketbunny - great to have another runner on the thread!

Gator - great to have you back!

Just got back from the gym. 45 minutes total on the treadmill and elliptical (4.1 miles) followed by my strength routine which is focused on upper body. Feel great! And I had a luna bar before I went so now that it's lunch time I'm not starving. I find the mid-morning snack to be all important in keeping my appetite under control for the rest of the day.

I'm trying to figure out if I want to go spinning tonight or do step areobics. With spinning though, I would have to get there like 45min to an hour early since its such an impacted class and you have to get an assigned number. I guess I could do some weights before hand. I have been using a trainer for the last couple weeks and he said spinning is better because I would probably burn more calories. I just have to commit to being at the gym longer. Oh well, thats the price I pay I guess. So whats everyone doing this weekend?

Hey gals! Anyone happy with the reliability and consistency of their scale? I'm looking for a recommendation. I think it might be time to replace mine as I'm starting not to trust it - it's too hard to get your feet in the exact same place as last time so my weight varies by a bunch if I get on the scale three times in a row.

Dancer- I have a Tanita and I LOVE it! It also measures body fat, but on a scale I have heard that there can be like a +/- 5% error on that. But my scale goes in .2 lb increments.

blueridge- good advice on the plateau. I've also been researching today about how to bust through mine... exercising HARD since Sunday and still hanging around 165 this morning. This may actually be the first week since I've started this journey that I haven't lost any weight! :?:

fatpants - if it's only one week, I wouldn't worry to much. It's only if it stretches into several weeks that you know your body has left 'weight loss' mode and gone into 'maintenance' mode. Keep up the great work - try limiting salt/processed food so you aren't dealing with water weight, and that might make the numbers on the scale a bit happier.

Dancer - I have two scales since I kind of live two different places (long story...) and I find that they both vary. I usually weigh myself a few times in a row to figure out what the scale's 'consensus' is. But it's kind of a pain. Would be nice to find one that is more consistent.

UGH, I found out today that I have tendinitis. My doctor said no more walking. He wants me to stay off my feet as much as possible. I'm going to call tomorrow and see if I can ride my exercise bike.

Also, my boyfriend's birthday is today, so I'm worried about eating healthy tonight!

Cinci - so sorry to hear about the tendonitis - doesn't exactly help with the workout plan, does it? Is your doc having you ice it?

Thanks for the scale info - still deciding what to do but a Tanita may be the way to go. Surprisingly pricey for a scale but since the last time I bought one was 20 yrs ago, I guess I'm a bit behind the technology :)

Ok, little intro for those who don't know me and catch up for the time Ive been gone. I am a chemical engineering student at UF. I LOVE gator football (have season tickets) and played rugby for uf until I broke my leg in late Feb. I had surgury in early march. I did physical therapy until all summer and am now just getting back into running. I am in the middle of week5 c25k. I have been eating about 1200 cal each day, but I think I am going to raise that because I am working out 40-60 min 5days a week and Im not losing any weight. My mini goal is to be at 161 by halloween, so I will set this Thanksgiving goal to be in the 150s. If I get there sooner, then I will adjust it.

Welcome, gatorgirl! Glad to hear your leg is holding up. I also recently raised my calories after not losing any weight (was also around 1200/day) and it definitely helped.

Fridays are my official weigh ins, so here is my first one!

SW: 165.6
CW: 164.6
GW: 150

So glad I eeked out a pound lost this week... it wasn't looking like I would! Dieting is such a guessing game...something works for awhile but then it stops working, so you have to figure out what will work next. I think my 10k training has me working excessively harder so I upped my cals to 1300 and dropped a lb.

Guess my body likes fuel or something. :p

Ok, I am throwing my hat in the ring for this one!!!

My name is Jennifer and i live in the suburbs of Chicago. My heighest weight ever was 280. My final goal is 175. I have yo yo dieted and have had little success. I did atkins 9 years ago for my wedding and lost 40 pounds, but then over the years I have found it plus 40 more.

I have not wanted to be in photos. My weight has been limiting to me socially and physically. So then I might my doctor and he has been going through the same things. Did some lab work and bam!!!! On my way to diabetes land if I don't watch it. So with his direction and some basic atkins knowledge I am on my way to that 175. A place that I haven't been in 16 years. But, I want to have children and want to feel good. so, I am all in!!!

SW 260
CW 260
GW 238

Look out size 16 here I come!!!

Have a great week everyone!!!

Jennifer - welcome, glad to have you with us.

Fatpants - congrats on the loss.

Cinci- sorry about the tendonitis! Is swimming an option for you? That's easier on the body than most exercise.

Gator - now that I'm keeping track of cals, I appreciate how low 1200 cals is! Hope that upping it is helpful to you in weight loss.

Busy day at work but just wanted to check in and share that I've been on plan and keeping track on fitday. Calories are coming out to around 1500-1600 a day, with which exercise should calculate to weight loss based on the research I've done. But we'll tweak it and see. Anyway, the daily weigh ins have been going well so I'm hoping by Sunday I'll be at my goal of 210, or at least below 211 (and, yes, 210.8 would TOTALLY count to me...) to bust the plateau.

Have a great weekend! If the weather where you are is as beautiful as it is here, then I hope you get out and enjoy it!

Hi girls,

Sorry to just be catching up and contributing to the new thread now. As some of you know, I've just started my 2nd year of law school. It is absolutely kicking me in the butt. I've been out straight trying to keep up on my work. I'm not stressed exactly, but just busy. It's been very hard to try to fit in the workouts. My preferred system is to work out at the end of the day "after work," but I think I'm going to have to tinker with that a bit and start going in before school on the days when I don't have class until later. That's the plan for next week.

So the semester's going to be a rough one, but I'm going to try to hang in there. I'm psyched to have this challenge going on so taht I can have some focus and accountability! My goal is to be at 155 by thanksgiving, which is just about a pound a week. I'm going to weigh in on Mondays, like the last challenge.

I'm already finding myself falling back into some of my old bad school habits....can you say potato chips as comfort food? But on the flip side, I've been pretty good about cooking on Sunday so that I've got some healthy meals to carry me through the week.

Great to see all the new faces on the thread! I hope you all have a great weekend! See you on Monday for weigh in.

kpme

Jennifer - Welcome! You seem to have a lot of great reasons for wanting to get healthy and this is such a great forum for support! I'm looking forward to hearing more about you!

Cinci - Tendonitis? Ouch! I'm sorry! I'm sure there are at least some exercises you can do, but you don't wanna push it too hard, so be careful. Hope your bf's bday went well!

FatPants - Congrats on your loss! 1lb is awesome, especially if you've been stalling for a little while. You're moving in the right direction! I'm glad you're eating a little more also. You're doing a lot of running and your body needs fuel, but not TOO much (I overdid it a bit when I increased my running, if you remember, so it's a balance!). Good luck this weekend!!!

Kpme - Good to see you! If you go back and read some of my posts in the last thread from the beginning of August (when I first started school), they sound EXACTLY like your last post. I was having a tremendously difficult time adjusting after a summer of having all the time in the word to cook, exercise, grocery shop, plan, etc. and then all of a sudden everything changes! It was hard and I struggled A LOT, but to give you some hope, I think I've made it through to the other side! I wake up a couple mornings a week to run and other days have an exercise class or some set time to work out so I fit it in. With food, I prepare all of my salads for lunch on Sundays and then throw in some fruit into my lunch bag the night before. I cook dinner on Sundays and then maybe Wed (the day I have the most free time). I have basically 3 choices for breakfast, snacks, and dinner that I alternate so I never have to think about it too much. But the stress eating is the hardest thing I've had to deal with and to be honest, I don't think that'll ever go away. It's just a matter of literally saying to yourself "How will this make me feel after I eat it? Better? Worse?". My treat on stressful days is a big nonfat latte and that's just as satisfying as a cookie or chips and won't make me feel crappy all day. I know it's hard and you'll have slip ups, but just accept that, move on and you'll only get stronger.

Such a long post, sorry! See you Monday for the weigh in!

My scale just might drive me crazy! I weigh in everyday. It has never been a problem before. I know that fluxuations from day to day are normal and I never let the get to me, but there is always a balance of up one day and the down the next. My scale seems to be stuck going in one direction. The wrong one. This morning I weighed in at 175. I haven't weighed that much in months. That is up from last sunday at 171. I am eating right ( recently uped my calories from 1200 to 1400 because of this abnormal weight gain. Its been here for a week today) and exercising hard atleast 4 days a week. I know that a little of this is water gain because I over did the sodium a little yesterday, but the majority of it has been lingering for a week now. When it started (last sunday) I went from 170.6 to 174.6 overnight. I thought it would go away, but it stayed. Anyone have any ideas? I need help. I need this weight off!

I had a great week but that was basically getting rid of the weight I gained while off plan camping last weekend. I doubt I will repeat this loss in a week again!


SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8
9/13 - 230.8 (-6 :carrot: )
9/20 -
9/27 -
10/4 -
10/11 -
10/18 -
10/25 -
11/1 -
11/8 -
11/15 -
11/22 -
11/26 -

Gator - Sorry you're struggling! Was there a reason for the initial 4 pound gain? Maybe a few extra bites of something or not tracking your calories quite as well? It could be due to stress (if you're stressed) or the heat or maybe you veered off plan just a tiny bit and your body overreacted. I wouldn't worry too much (easier said than done, I know), but just be super anal about tracking your food, cut out sodium, drink a ton of water, eat very cleanly, and maybe up your workouts just a little bit, and try to be patient. I would say one good week will show you a big loss. Your body will catch up to all the good work you're putting in, even if it takes a little time, so don't worry!

Econ nerd - Great loss this week! It's always nice to get back down after you've gained a few, so keep up the good work!

Takingcharge- I dont know of the reason, but it seems that I will just have to move on. I have decided to not weigh again till friday. It will be tough, but I think it will keep my mind in the right place. This process is not about the numbers. I am going to spend this week focusing on staying in calories and active. Monday-Friday seems like a good short time to focus on. I am going to the gym all 5 days. I am going to drink at least 3 liters of water (which is 1 liter more than Im drinking now) and restrict myself to certain 'good' foods. I will write out the next days meal plan the night before and stick to that plan.

Hopefully this will help.

I'm scared to weigh myself for tomorrows weigh-in! I haven't worked out in 3 days AND it's TOM! YIKES! All I can do now is cross my fingers and hope for the best!

Definitely want to join this challenge! I'm Jackie, 21, been overweight practically my whole life until earlier this summer!!!!! Finally started eating HEALTHIER this year, rather than just eating LESS (to the point of starving myself) as I did in the past. I also started running, and now run about 2 hrs a day. I'm just looking to lose the last 10 lbs or so...don't really know until I get there! But totally excited and confident I can do this, especially with the help of this great great forum. best wishes to everyone!

today's weigh-in: 157.2
goal: 148-ish

:D

Hi all,

Doing the first actual check-in that I feel like I've done in a while! TC - thanks so much for your post about the rigors of the new school year. You are right on SO many levels, and I'm grateful for the support! This week is already starting to feel a bit saner and I'm looking forward to getting back in a workout routine. I've been getting them in sporadically, but I'm due for a proper routine! I'm also ready for the scale to start moving downward again! I guess I should feel pleased that through all of the travel/wedding/school stuff I've maintained more or less, but it's starting to feel like a stall!

Jackie - welcome and congrats on all of your progress! That's awesome!

Gator - I agree with all the great advice from TC. I agree that after a couple of good days "on the wagon" will motivate you and make you feel so much better! Want to make a calorie-tracking pact for the remainder of this week?

Have a good week everyone!

kp

9/14, 166, 167
9/21, 165
9/28, 164
10/5, 162
10/12, 161
10/19, 160
10/26, 159
11/2, 158 (10% overall goal)
11/9, 157
11/16, 156
11/23, 155

kpme- Sure. I have been logging calories for the past couple weeks on thedailyplate. I will post what I ate, water I drank, and exercise here, so that if the scale doesn't change I can get input from you all to see what to do.

Weigh in this morning- 174.8 so no significant change. Not weighing again until friday, so hopefully that goes down.

Sounds good, Gator. I know I definitely won't be able to keep up with posting on the thread but I do need to make a commitment to be keeping track of my calories in fitday! Otherwise I suspect I find it all too easily to creep up in the 2K range!

Here's my scheduled weigh-in... close, but not quite...
Sept 9 Starting Weight: 135.2
Sept 14: 133.8 134
Sep 21: 132.5
Sep 28: 131.3
Oct 5: 130
Oct 12: 128.8
Oct 19: 127.5
Oct 26: 126.3
Nov 2: 125
Nov 4:fly to Grand Cayman!!!
Nov 9: maintain
Nov 16: maintain
Nov 23:maintain

Today's weigh in was actually much better than I expected... I didn't want to step on the scale... I haven't worked out for 3 days and it's TOM. So all in all, I'm happy with 134!

Hi Everyone! I'm going to jump in here and join you. I've been struggling all year to lose those last 15 pounds, and I suddenly realized that since the beginning of June I've gained 10 pounds so those last 10 pounds have turned into 25. By no means am I an extremely over weight person. If I got to 140 I just feel healthier. It's amazing the difference between 140 and my current weight of 153 feels. I mean, I can feel myself get more out of breathe and I hate that. From 140 to 129(my goal weight) is just vanity pounds than anything but a couple of summers ago I worked hard to get there and I just want to prove to myself that I can do it again and for once in my life maintain a weight instead of being a constant see-saw...

Here's my weekly goals for this challange...

Sept 14: 153 (starting weight from this morning)
Sep 21: 149
Sep 27: 145 (a bit agressive I know to want to lose 8 in two weeks...)
Oct 5: 145 (going on vacation the previous week & hope to maintain)
Oct 12: 144 (from this point a pound & a half week seems managable)
Oct 19: 142.5
Oct 26: 141
Nov 2: 139.5
Nov 4:138
Nov 9: 136.5
Nov 16: 135
Nov 23:133.5

What do ya'll think? Can I do it?? I just realized that'd be a total of 20 pounds. I might be living in a dream world. :(

Monday weigh in--STILL 155! I am so frustrated! I feel like I had about as good of a week as I could have had. I walked with the stroller 50-60minutes every day and did an elliptical workout 6 out of 7 days. I was eating healthy foods and reasonable portions. I have not been counting calories while I am breastfeeding (actually pumping and feeding), because I know I shouldn't "diet" or restrict calories too much. But I have been eating an english muffin and yogurt for breakfast, a lean cuisine and piece of fruit for lunch, and grilled meat, a side salad and steamed veggies for dinner. How is it possible that I did not lose even an ounce? I was so frustrated this morning that I was tempted to just blow today off and eat all of the things I wanted to eat last week but didn't. I went for a nice walk this morning, and the beautiful weather helped my mood, but I am still frustrated!

Kpme -It'll all come together, I promise!! Just try to make a good plan and stick to it and then everything will fall right into place. And I really do understand what you're going through so if you ever need to talk/vent, I'm here!

melly - Welcome and good luck!

Amy - Congrats on the loss! That's great!

Gator and turning30 - Man, do I know that frustration! Honestly though, this is a very natural and normal (though annoying) part of weight loss. Your body is just trying to adjust to a lower weight than it's used to and it might do that by not losing even if you're being completely perfect or even gain a few pounds to try to fight back. Just think of this as a minor speed bump and push just a little harder to get over it or even just stick with what you're doing. I gaurentee it'll pay off! An please don't beat yourself up or get too frustrated. It's all part of the process and it happens to us all. Enjoy how far you've come and your new healthy lifestyle!

As for me, I had a BIG drop this week, but just so you all know, that will most definitely not be the case every week (I wish!). My starting weight was due to a week of stress eating and it's the top end of my maintenance range, so luckily a week of really clean eating and great workouts has gotten me back to the lower end of my range. Now to keep going down and not bounce back up! I know I can do it this time. Under 135, here I come!! My goal for the week is to keep up the clean eating for another whole week and to stop eating after 9. Please help keep me accountable!

9/7: 139.0
9/14: 136.6 (-2.4)

TakingCharge - Way to go!!

Late night eating is one of my biggest struggles. Sometimes I do good all day at work but as soon as I walk in the door of my house I start munching the rest of the evening. I decided that starting today that I would no longer eat food unless I was in the kitchen. Bedroom :blush: and living room are off limits for food!! Plus not eating after 7 for me. It's a must if I want to achieve my goals@!!

Melly- 129 is quite low for someone who is 5'7". You can do it. I just don't know if your body is happy at that weight. Only you know that. I don't know your frame, lifestyle, or anything. I am 5'7.5" and my goal is 140-145 (currently). I may try to get below that once I get there, but for now thats my goal. You also need to realize that getting so low may take longer. It might be even as slow as .5lb each week. Just stick in there and decide to stop once your are happy with where you are at. The numbers matter less that how you feel.

I did 50 min of exercise today. 30 min of c25k and 20 min of stair climber. I will stay in calories. So far, doing great.

Howdy, all! Congrats to the losers!!!

TC - a big woohoo for your whoosh week!!

Turning30 - you might also want to keep track of your measurements as you may see changes in inches when the scale *seems* stuck but is really reflecting something else going on with your body (water retention, muscle building, etc.) Hang in there!

Melly - welcome! I think most of us don't know in advance exactly where we'll end up as goals tend to morph a bit over time. Sounds like you're off to a great start and you can always change your mind later - a woman's prerogative, right? ;)

shrinkingamy - you are doing great!

econnerd - holy cow! six pounds in a week is, well, wow!

I'm holding steady after being away for the weekend for my buddy's wedding and am happy to be maintaining as planned. But this week, look out! I'm moooore than ready to move on the the 160s after camping out at 170 (and having some scale challenges) for what seems like ages (but is really only a week or so). This is a great thread, chicas! So glad we're all doing this together....

Sept 12: 170: 170
Sep 21: 169
Sep 28: 168
Oct 5: 166
Oct 12: 164
Oct 19: 163
Oct 26: 162
Nov 2: 160
Nov 9: 159
Nov 16: 157
Nov 23: 155

No real loss since last week. I have been retaining a lot of water because my eating has not been as good as it should be. I need to get myself in check with the eating, because my workouts are great, but then I'm a little lax with food.

Melly- 129 is quite low for someone who is 5'7". You can do it. I just don't know if your body is happy at that weight. Only you know that. I don't know your frame, lifestyle, or anything. I am 5'7.5" and my goal is 140-145 (currently). I may try to get below that once I get there, but for now thats my goal. You also need to realize that getting so low may take longer. It might be even as slow as .5lb each week. Just stick in there and decide to stop once your are happy with where you are at. The numbers matter less that how you feel.

I did 50 min of exercise today. 30 min of c25k and 20 min of stair climber. I will stay in calories. So far, doing great.

Yeah, 129 is probably low for me. Honestly my long time goal is more like 133-135. But I'd like to see 129. Kinda like a pre-relationship, pre-marriage, pre-babies weight. Because I know once all that happens 129 would never be a weight I would be able to maintain for any length of time... It didn't seem like I looked unhealthy the last time I was there but I may need to re-evaluate as things progress. Thanks for your imput!! ;)

I think I had a good day!! Now to keep that up!! :carrot:

Melly - It seems like you've set some good goals for yourself. It's good that you're not too crazy about a specific number because it really is more about how you feel and sometimes aiming for a low number will drive you crazy in the end. Let's keep each other out of the kitchen at night!

Gator - Good job on the workout!

Dancer - Way to maintain! That's pretty impressive with everything you had going on. I know you can kick some serious butt when you put your mind to it so you'll be in the 160s in no time!

Shasha - Eating is my biggest problem too. I can work out like crazy but one bad night of eating reverses all the hard work! You can do it though, just keep your head in the game!

Thanks for all the support girls! Moreso than the weight loss this week, I feel like I had a full week of dealing with my food demons or whatever - the lack of control, the grabby hands, the eating more than necessary. I've found myself saying, "you're full so stop eating" and I love being able to have that kind of control over food. I know I'll have more slip ups, I'm sure sooner than I'd like, but at least I know I can get back to my healthy mentality and not have it lost and gone forever!

I had 4 tooties rolls. I don't think it's going to kill my day but I shouldn't have eaten them regardless. Why are evening's so hard?? I get SOOOO hungry!!

Melly - hang in there and fight the good fight - you want those gorgeous abs, right?

Dancer - Absolutely!! I stopped at 4 and I don't think it did to much damage! I do want those abs badly!! Oh and you should have seen me on the treadmill last night. I'm trying to run(though I'm not good at it) so I'd walk a minute at 4.0 and then run a minute at 5.0. About 15 mins in I was getting tired already so I grabbed a catalog with swimsuits in it and I used the way those girls looked in the swimsuits as motivation. Whatever works, right?!

Hope everyone has a great day!!

Melly- I know I wont ever look like those girls in the catalog with swimsuits, but that sure is great motivation. Heck, at this point, I would love to be at your current weight. If we can stay on track, Im sure we will all meet our goals.

The worst part about trying to lose weight is it totally takes the enjoyment out of watching my favorite food network shows--I just finished watching Giada make tiramisu while I was eating a lean cuisine!

The worst part about trying to lose weight is it totally takes the enjoyment out of watching my favorite food network shows--I just finished watching Giada make tiramisu while I was eating a lean cuisine!

:lol: I know what you mean! I was flipping through a cookbook last night and had to put it away because it was making me hungry!

hey everyone! A small loss this morning, down to 247.2. I really need to stop this everyday weighing, but I can't help it. I took a zumba class last night. Omg so much fun. I was sweating A LOT. I really hope that it is able to trim down my mid section. Has anyone taken this class?

Ok! So, I started the C25K yesterday. What an aweesome feeling!!! The support here is awesome! Not a big change in the scale but a change in the loss column is always good. Have a great day everyone!!!

Starting weight: 169
----
9/8/09: 169
9/15/09: 167.4
----
Goal weight: 159


Doing great. I'm staying within my points and sticking to my jogging schedule. Only 8.4 lbs to go!


Turning30 - Food Network is one of my favorites too. I tend to watch the TV with a computer nearby, so when I see something I like, I start looking up recipes to see if I can make it low calorie with a serving size for 2 people. I've had a lot of good luck with splenda instead of sugar and using less oil/butter when needed.

Shasha17A - Congrats on your loss. Also congrats on finding a fitness activity that you enjoy! I've never heard of Zumba, but it sounds like fun.

Jellofer2 - You'll love C25K - it got me running too!

Melly- I know I wont ever look like those girls in the catalog with swimsuits, but that sure is great motivation. Heck, at this point, I would love to be at your current weight. If we can stay on track, Im sure we will all meet our goals.

And I KNOW we can stay on track!! :D

The worst part about trying to lose weight is it totally takes the enjoyment out of watching my favorite food network shows--I just finished watching Giada make tiramisu while I was eating a lean cuisine!

:lol: I know what you mean! I was flipping through a cookbook last night and had to put it away because it was making me hungry!

I hear ya!! I was just getting mad at the tv awhile ago because while watching Biggest Loser they were playing Chilli's commercials. It just seems wrong!! :mad:

hey everyone! A small loss this morning, down to 247.2. I really need to stop this everyday weighing, but I can't help it. I took a zumba class last night. Omg so much fun. I was sweating A LOT. I really hope that it is able to trim down my mid section. Has anyone taken this class?

I've never taken it but lots of people say good things about it. And your having fun while exercise, what can be better?!

Ok! So, I started the C25K yesterday. What an aweesome feeling!!! The support here is awesome! Not a big change in the scale but a change in the loss column is always good. Have a great day everyone!!!

Awesome! I'm just getting ready to start C25K with a friend. Good luck!!

Starting weight: 169
----
9/8/09: 169
9/15/09: 167.4
----
Goal weight: 159


Doing great. I'm staying within my points and sticking to my jogging schedule. Only 8.4 lbs to go!



Awesome job!!

- - - - -

So I had two flavor tootsie rolls again tonight(compared to 4 last night). What do you all think. If I can control it and just have like 2 is that really a bad thing??

zumba sounds super fun but I haven't tried it. I've done other kinds of salsaerobics that I loved.

I hear you girls on food shows - I have to be careful even about watching top chef as it can make me starving hungry just watching the food. Isn't that ridiculous?

Melly - 2 tootsie rolls is most likely more than fine if you can stop there without it triggering other cravings. I think that's the issue for lots of people - you know, the slippery slope once you get started.

And no biggee if we don't look like girls in a catalog - we just want to look the best we possibly can and be fit and healthy while we're at it, right?

My bf was eating chocolates after dinner tonight and I stuck with my crystal light popsicle. God, will the temptations ever get easier to resist? I'm hoping to see a bit of progress this week - fingers crossed.

Have a good evening, ladies!

:wave: I'm still plugging along. TOM showed up which doesn't "thrill" me but hey and least it's this week and not next week right before leaving for vacation!

How's everyone else doing??

I'm here! So far I have not dropped any weight this week. But it's been kind of an off week with my first race last Sunday and my family here, plus my knee issues flaring up. I ran Tuesday and Wednesday, but I'll be shaking this up a bit to give my knee a rest... going to the gym today and I swear, I will not step on the treadmill. No running! :nono:

dancer- I don't know if the temptation ever really ceases to exist. There are still so many times that I crave the horrible stuff - buffalo wings, fried shrimp, Chipotle! :dizzy: I have found what works for me (at least when eating out) is not letting myself get to the point of famished before dinner. If so, it's a recipe for disaster... I will attempt to order everything on the menu! If I don't feel that hungry then I'm less tempted to eat the bad stuff and just gravitate toward something that will satisfy me.

But darn it all if sometimes I wake up at night thinking about food! LOL

I am so irritated with the scale. It has been hopping back and forth between 247 and 248 for like 2 weeks now. So obviously, I'm not going to meet my goal of being 240 by the end of this month unless I lose a limb or something. I hate this because I began at 255, so I don't know why so early in my journey am I experiencing this plateau.

shasha - Scales are frustrating. Just don't give up. If you hang in there, eat healthy and exercise the scales will move, just maybe not at the pace you'd like them too!!

I was really back last night. I was expecting to see the scales go up this morning but they were 148 yesterday and 147.8 this morning. So at least last night's badness didn't catch up with me. I blame TOM as the reason I was so hungry and just kept eating. But, I did get out a small dish and ever though I refilled it several times I did keep the food fairly healthy and I didn't eat HUGE servings...

Tomorrow I'm going to a baby shower that's serving lunch. I hope that there will be some healthy options and that I won't be looked down at for not wanting any cake...

Weigh in:

SW: 165.4
CW: 164.4 (no change)
GW: 150

And I officially hate my scale.

ugh, weekly weigh-in today..158.0. up 0.8 lbs. I ate like crap yesterday for some reason and its about to be TOM, so it's not so bad really. Getting back on track today, though finding it harder now that I'm nearing my goal :/

SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8
9/13 - 230.8 (total loss 6 )
9/20 - 235.2 (total loss 1.6) :mad:
9/27 -
10/4 -
10/11 -
10/18 -
10/25 -
11/1 -
11/8 -
11/15 -
11/22 -
11/26 -

Monday weigh-in: 152.2 (almost 3 lbs down, which makes up for no loss last week). Went running (actually running/walking) for the first time in a LONG time! It was a struggle, but felt good too. Hopefully I can have some will power tonight at Monday Night Football gathering--Go Colts!

Hello all,

Sorry I've been away. My parents came to visit me last week and I thought I was going to have internet connection where we were staying but I didn't. So just getting back online. I also didn't bring my scale along to where I am staying, but I have some good news to share. After two and a half months (since the beginning of July) I have been stuck at 211 (and even above - in the 212/213/214 range at times) and FINALLY have made it to 210 and busted through my plateau. YAY!!! Keeping track of food, writing things down and logging them in fitday has done the trick for me. That's a total of 26 pounds since the beginning of 2009. Ten pounds to go until Thanksgiving, and if I lose about a pound a week consistently I can make it!

Haven't had a chance to read through everyone's posts but I skimmed some of them. I can see a few have had disappointing weigh-ins: keep up the great work and it WILL pay off in time. Have a great day everybody!

FatPants - Ha, I think we all have a love/hate relationship with our scales! It'll be good to you soon, just stick with it.

Jackie - Just a small bump in the road. I know what you mean about it being harder to get back on track near goal. I've been struggling with that for almost 3 months now! But at least if you can maintain your current loss, you know you're doing something right, so keep that in mind!

Econ and Turning30 - Rock on!! Keep the losses coming! And yay for running! A few of us here are runners, so join the club!

Blueridge - Woohoo!!! Go plateau buster! That's so fantastic. You can totally make your goal by Thanksgiving, just keep up all of your great habits.

As for me, no loss this week, but I'm ok with that considering the huge drop I had last week. My eating and exercise have been really good, except for Saturday. I basically just threw caution to the wind ALL day (not just for one meal) and while I didn't go crazy or eat anything bad, I just ate way too much healthy food (lost count of spoonfuls of almond butter!). So hopefully there's a little water retention going on, but either way, I'm back on track and really hoping to kick start the weight loss. Oh, also, I was just diagnosed with hypothyroidism. I knew it was coming because my mom has it and I've been borderline recently, but now it's bad, so I'm starting meds. Hopefully it'll give me more energy and speed up my metabolism so I can finally lose those last pounds!

9/7: 139.0
9/14: 136.6 (-2.4)
9/21: 136.6

TakingCharge - getting your thyroid in a good place can make a big difference with energy level and weight loss (and tons of other things). When my thyroid is low, I'm low-energy, sluggish, constipated, and cold all the time and absolutely cannot lose weight. Getting and maintaing a good TSH level is really helpful overall. Good luck!

Hello everyone... here's my weigh in... not so great... but since I didn't exercise and ate like crap while visiting with my family in Ohio for the week, what can I expect? Back on the wagon tomorrow!

Sept 9 Starting Weight: 135.2
Sept 14: 133.8 134
Sep 21: 132.5 133.6
Sep 28: 131.3
Oct 5: 130
Oct 12: 128.8
Oct 19: 127.5
Oct 26: 126.3
Nov 2: 125
Nov 4:fly to Grand Cayman!!!
Nov 9: maintain
Nov 16: maintain
Nov 23:maintain

Blueridge - Thanks for the words of encouragement. I really haven't been feeling like myself lately, but at least I know why! Are you on medication? If so, how long did it take you to start feeling better after you started taking it? Who knows, maybe it'll help me run faster for my 10K! :)

Amy - Any loss after no exercise and crappy eating is awesome! But yes, back on track, and I'm sure you'll see a good loss next week!

Sorry that I haven't posted in awhile. But, I have made some progress!!1

SW 260
9/20 254.4


making progress. I have lost 24 lbs since the 17th of august!!! Woohoo!!!

Hello all! I know I haven't posted in a while, so I thought I would pop in here and let you know that I am still here. I just don't have a ton of time to post lately because of school. I am staying on plan, and slowly losing weight. I start with my personal trainer this week, should be great.

Hope you all have a great week.

I'm starting late but would love to join! Thanksgiving sounds like an excellent goal point!

Icme - Welcome! We have the same starting weight, and I see you're in NC, just south of me here in Virginia. What's your goal for by Thanksgiving?

Takingcharge - I've been on synthroid for several years, and my dose has increased several times. I'm now at 112 mcg a day, which I take before bed. I can't remember how long it took to feel a difference, definitely not overnight, maybe 2-3 weeks. But I can't really recall cause it was a while ago. Keep up the good work -you are so close to your goal!

Gator - good to hear from you. Good luck w/ your personal trainer!

Okay, confession time. I just had lunch at Dairy Queen. Long story as to why, I was taking someone else there as a treat and was going eat before I went and ended up not. I got a turkey iron grill sandwich which I thought wouldn't be too bad (not deep fried) and turns out it has 520 calories! Plus a small french fry which is 310 cals more. I had about 400 cals at breakfast, so I really only have about 350 to use for the rest of the day - will have to take it easy at dinner. Scanning the DQ nutrition info, it doesn't really look like there are any healthy options at all. Well, I can look at the bright side - at least I didn't get any ice cream!!! Next time will plan ahead and pack a lunch even if I don't get to eat before hand.

Hello Everyone!

Im a returning face, I was a on very seriouse journey back in January; last semester before earning my Associates and I really fell off and just completly went back to my old eating habits and ways..UGHh! BUT im am starting again and im going to get it right this time. Starting by this Thanksgiving challenge! So I have about 2 months left so i plan to make the best of it. I am away at school and for some reason i didnt not pack my scale, so i actually have no clue of my exact weight (207-212), but I plan to go to walmart before the 26th. My goal has always been 170 so Im going to shoot for the same im sure!

I going to need the support of 3fc ladies!!!!! Im excited Whoo Hoo!

Oh I got a new ipod touch and im in the process of creating me a workout playlist, new playlists always get me motivated!

Lisa4t:carrot:

you can do it!!! :hug: I know how it feels to be tough on the weight change and then go back to the same ole same. I am on week 6 of a lifestyle change and it is tough. But you can do it. This is the best place for support!!! I have lunch or dinner with this site almost everyday. It gives me inspiration to keep on my plan (high pro/low carb). Good luck!!!

I'll be a cheerleader for you!!!! :cheer:


:dust:

I have been in a rut this month. I lost 3lbs the first week of Sept, so I thought it would be smooth sailing for the rest of this month, but its been so tough. I keep going up and down the same 1-2 lbs, and dipping no lower than 247. So unless something miraculous happens, I am not dropping to 240 like I had hoped. Plus on top of that, going on a mini vacation to Seattle this Thurs for a few days. We are staying with a friend. At best, I think I will able to maintain. Ugh.

Starting weight: 169
----
9/8/09: 169
9/15/09: 167.4
9/22/09: 167.0
----
Goal weight: 159

Only down 0.4 this week, 3.2 total in the 3 weeks of the challenge, which is an okay rate. I feel like my body really wants to break into the 166s, so next week should hopefully involve a nice loss.

Lisa - a new playlist is always a good motivator. I just bought some new music from itunes and am enjoying it.

Rocketbunny - slow and steady wins the race. You're doing well!

Jellofer - I am also trying to limit carbs and balance them with protein. This morning I had two whole grain waffles with almond butter, and a glass of skim milk for breakfast. What are some of your fave higher protein lower carb snacks/meals?

Shasha - do your best to keep up good habits and it will come off in time. Make a plan for your mini-vacation - like deciding if/how/when you will splurge, packing healthy snacks, that kind of thing, so you can do your best to stay on track.

Well, after my lunch at DQ yesterday, I was afraid to step on the scale this morning (yes, I am a daily weigher, I feel like it helps with my accountability) since I thought all the salt would make for a much higher number, but happily I was only up .4 from yesterday which is a much smaller amount than I had expected. So I am hopeful that I can maintain 210 for my Monday weigh-in, or even get into the 209 range if I am disciplined on my eating habits. I have been a bit tired and under the weather this week so I don't have the energy to exercise, so need to focus entirely on good eating for the time being.

Welcome to the new members! We have a great group going here, so join right in!

Rocketbunny - A loss is a loss! You'll be seeing 166 in no time!

Shasha - Ugh, ruts are SO frustrating. A few pounds up and down, up and down, it drives me crazy! Maybe try to step up your exercise a bit. What's your current routine now? You could try somethign new to spice things up, like a cool new class or workout dvd or something. And if you can maintain, that's a great step, so try not to get down on yourself and just keep up the good work!


Blueridge - Good job trying to get the healthiest thing at DQ. I can't imagine there were too many great options! Everyone has those days though, so don't worry about it. The scale will come right down after a day or two on track! Sorry to hear that you haven't been feeling too well. Hope you feel better soon!

My week so far has been pretty good calorie-wise, though I've really had to fight hard to conceal those urges to eat, eat, eat. I know TOM is coming in a day or two, so maybe that's it, I don't know. Also, I was thinking it would be good for me to do 1 or 2 weekly check-ins because I always lose weight during the week and then gain it all back over the weekend, so if you all see that I CAN be at a lower weight, maybe you'll kick my butt if it's higher on Monday due to my sloppy weekend eating. So....today I weighed in at 135.8! It may go up a little here and there, but I'm hoping to be at this weight or lower on Monday, so please feel free to yell at me if I'm not!

Keep at it everyone!

Taking Charge-you are getting so close to your goal--Congrats! Good luck with your weekend.

Yesterday I discovered the Jillian Michaels 30 Day Shred workouts--they are actually free videos on my cable On Demand channel. There are 3 levels (I started with level 1), and they incorporate strength, cardio, and abs in a 20 minute intense workout. I plan to do extra cardio on days when I have the time, but I figure I can find 20 minutes everyday, so no excuses!

I am a 30 day shred fan - don't do it every day, but it's a great resource to squeeze a work out in when you don't have much time. Let me know how it goes for you!

Congrats to all the losers and big hugs of sympathy to those stuck in ruts!

Blueridge - any songs you'd recommend?

Belated check in from me this week - I was 169 on Monday and right on track this week. Am shooting for 168 for this coming Monday and since I'm traveling all week, it's going to be tough. Got in a good run this morning on the hotel treadmill though. Am going to try to repeat that tomorrow. Will write more later this weekend when I'm back home...

Blueridge

I am on a very high protein (130 grams/day) and very low carb (20-30 grams/day) program. Like atkins. I eat 4-5 meals per day. Some of my favorite snacks are salami and cheese. :) As for low carb snacks. I really don't have any. I see my doctor again on Friday and will be introduced to some low carb (<15 grams) per serving snacks which are high in protein. So we shall see. I know that Berries are a good snack with a low carb number but the serving size is also very small. That is why I eat 4-5 times/day. I aim for about 30 grams of protein per meal. The body can only procress that much at a time. So if I have more than that it is a waste. I am also a good measurer and drink about 4 liters of water per day. I hope that helps.

jellofer2 - interesting to hear about your plan - thanks for sharing! I have a hard time getting enough lean protein in during the day without adding a lot of saturated fat. And chicken gets a bit boring after a while. Would be curious to hear if you have any suggestions. Good for you for making it work!!

dancer - way to go for making it to the 160s!!! Great job! You are doing awesome even though you're away from home..that's some dedication! :D

Just a quick check in for me this morning... another busy day at work.

SW: 165
CW: 163
GW: 150

A loss of a pound this week.. I will so take it after struggling the past few weeks!

blueridge - what new songs did you get? I could use some updates to my ipod.

fatpants - congrats on the continued losses!

I am so upset at myself--I completely ditched my plan today! Breakfast was fine, but then I gave into my Qdoba craving at lunch (although I did it a lot healthier than I used to). My baby was crying non-stop all afternoon, and I couldn't seem to comfort her and was completely stressed out by it. As a last resort I put her in her car seat and went for a drive, which worked (she loves car rides). I had had such a rough afternoon that I decided it would be OK to get a milk shake from the drive thru! What was I thinking--I didn't even enjoy it! I had been having a pretty good week up until today, and I'm hoping I can bounce right back tomorrow. It will be tough though because we are going out of town to visit family.

Dancer - way to go with keeping on track while on vacation. From itunes I purchased "mambo # 5" "murder she wrote" (the reggae song - usually not my style but it has a beat which gets me moving) "standing outside the fire" by garth brooks (again, I don't usually like country but that one works for me somehow) and "Sway" by Michael Buble, a big-band old school cha cha. So a really random collection of songs, but all upbeat ones that keep me moving on the treadmill.

Unfortunately I haven't been able to to enjoy them this week - as I mentioned I've been feeling under the weather and just found out why. I have a virus that is spread by ticks - kind of like lyme disease. It's a virus, and it's not serious, just something that has to run its course over a week or so. Pretty much my only symptom at this point is fatigue, but it means I haven't worked out all week because I seriously don't have the energy - unfortunately, my appetite hasn't decreased! So probably won't have lost this week, but really what can I do? But the dr. said that I should feel better every day and that this shouldn't last more than 7-10 days, and I've already had it for something like 6 days, so hopefully this is wrapping itself up.

Jellofer - wow, you are way more hard-core than me on the carb thing, I'm just trying to balance my carbs w/ protein (a la the insulin resistance diet). I have a tradition of saturday morning pancakes and am trying to make that less carby and more protein and fiber based. I bought soy flour this week so I'm going to use that along with oat flour (put oatmeal in the blender, and voila, oat flour!) for tomorrow's pancakes. Definitely more in line with my goals than white flour or regular pancake mix - we'll see how it tastes!

turning30 - tomorrow is a new day, and another chance to make good choices!

Hi all!

Sorry I've been so MIA all month - but it's been a crazy busy time for me. I look forward to trying to get back more in the swing of checking and contributing to the thread over the next few weeks.

I have been SO busy that I didn't post last week, but I was thrilled to be at 165. I weighted in the night after a U2 concert where I pretty much jumped up and down for 4 straight hours, so I wasn't surprised to see a loss. Even after 4 hours of tailgating ;)

Hopefully the job hunt (for next summer -- I'm law school) will be winding down later this week which will free up a ton more time!

Congrats to all on your successes!

kp

9/14, 166, 167
9/21, 165, 165
9/28, 164
10/5, 162
10/12, 161
10/19, 160
10/26, 159
11/2, 158 (10% overall goal)
11/9, 157
11/16, 156
11/23, 155

After all the food I just ate, weigh-in tomorrow may not be pretty... I did come straight home and did a cardio workout, but I'm still STUFFED!

SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8
9/13 - 230.8 (total loss 6 )
9/20 - 235.2 (total loss 1.6)
9/27 - 231.8 (total loss 5)
10/4 -
10/11 -
10/18 -
10/25 -
11/1 -
11/8 -
11/15 -
11/22 -
11/26 -

Econ nerd - wow, congrats on the big loss!

I have some good news to share for my monday weigh in. I wasn't thinking I would have any loss this week, and was even thinking I might have gained since I wan't able to exercise b/c I've had this virus for a week which has sapped my energy. But I got on the scale this morning and it said 209.5 - a half pound loss which isn't much, but it's significant because I am now officially out of the 210s and in the 200s and I have less than ten pounds to go to get to onderland, which seems doable. I am feeling much better and more energetic so I'm hopeful that by being faithful to keeping my food journal and adding back in workouts I'll have another loss next monday. I was at 211 for SO LONG that to see 210 on the scale, and now 209 feels great. Measuring, counting and writing things down seems to be doing the trick for pushing me past this plateau. I'm now down 1.5 pounds since I started the challenge, and down 26.5 pounds so far. Feels great! 9.6 pounds to onederland!

Econ Nerd - Congrats on 5lbs down! That's awesome!

BlueRidgeGirl - Way to Go! Congrats on hitting that milestone!

Weighing in today - I'm down 1.2lbs since last week! But I'm still about a pound behind goal . I only worked out 4 times this week, so I'm going to up my game to 6 days and see if that helps me catch up! 38 days till Grand Cayman! I can do it! I'm dying to fall under 130... I haven't been that fit in 10 years!

Howdy, girls!

Amy - woohoo on the 1.2lbs! Sounds like you've got a great plan for this week too. What do you do to stay motivated for your trip? Weekly bikini try-ons?

econnerd - holy cow - that's a huge loss this week - wtg!

blueridge - congrats for losing while sick! Hope you feel lots better this week!

kpme - woohoo for 165! Hope to be there with you soon ;)

I'm on track for this week but a bit nervous about trying to lose 2lbs this week. Am planning on lots of long runs!!

Sept 12: 170: 170
Sep 21: 169: 169
Sep 28: 168: 168
Oct 5: 166
Oct 12: 164
Oct 19: 163
Oct 26: 162
Nov 2: 160
Nov 9: 159
Nov 16: 157
Nov 23: 155

SW 260
9/20 254.4
9/28 251.8

Blueridge and DancerinDenver

It is not easy to do. But, I am working with a Rehab and Weightloss physician. No pills except vitamins. Multivitamin, superb complex and calcium along with zinc and vitamin c for immune help since I work in a hospital. I do have an occasional carb snack. Usually 12-15 carbs is my limit and they are little to no sugars. High in protein though. I eat alot of Chicken, pork, turkey and do love red meat. I just try and buy leaner cuts. My husband made a delicious pot roast last night and I even indulged in some carrots. I haven't had a potato or piece of bread in over 6 weeks and have no true desire. I think when that day comes I may have to give in to avoid a big binge. I do alot of journaling and have started painting my house when the craving or boredom hit. I drink about 4 liters of water each day which makes for many trips to the bathroom. Seems to happen at least 2 times everynight. As far as exercise I am doing c25k starting week 3, I try to walk the dog 3-4 times/week, I do the biggest loser weight loss yoga 3 times a week and some light strength training. My only regret is that I did not measure or take photos before I started. But, I may have to post a current photo so that I can share my progress. My reasons for sticking to my plan are simple. I was climbing towards that 300 mark and couldn't control it. I felt awful and my value of myself as a person was little to none. It was affecting me socially and emotionally. My husband and I want children, but I had no desire for him to even touch me. And your blood doesn't lie.....I was about 10 lbs away from being a diabetic. That is not a life I want to live especially from what I have seen being a nurse. So on the 17th of August I got my fresh start or second chance as the BL show did this season. I will do this and I will live.

Best of luck to you both in your life style change adventure!!!

Have a great day everyone!!!

Hello Dancer,
I don't try on my bathing suits - instead I took the pictures of the models wearing my suits (from the website where I purchased them) and printed them out. So when I'm not motivated, I look at those pictures. They represent what I want to look like by the time vacation comes along and gives me a visual reminder of what I want to achieve.

jellofer - you are the third person today to recommend vitamin C and zinc. One good friend of mine who uses it to boost immune system, and my acupuncture since flu season is approaching. Sounds like you have developed a plan that is working for you and you are really sticking to it.

shrinking amy - congrats on the loss. A trip to grand cayman is certainly a motivator!

Monday weigh-in: 153 (up almost a pound from last week). Not proud of it, but not surprised--had a really bad back-half of the week. Trying to get back on the wagon this week.

Amy - do you have somewhere you recommend for getting cute suits? We're not heading to a beach until January but I haven't bought a new suit in years and need to get some new stuff.

blueridge - how are you feeling?

turning30 - You'll get it off again, I'm sure. What's your eating/exercise plan for this week?

Starting weight: 169
----
9/8/09: 169
9/15/09: 167.4
9/22/09: 167.0
9/29/09: 167.0 -0.0
----
Goal weight: 159

Weird. I ended up maintaining this week, despite seeing 166 and even 165 on the scale midweek. <shrug> Hopefully this will mean a big loss next week when my body decides to quit this waffling.

Hey girls. Sorry I didn't get to post yesterday. I'm actually taking a mini-break from recording my weight (even though I'm still checking it to stay accountable). I've been struggling with being happy at the weight I'm at now and trying to lose those last pounds and it's been driving me crazy, so I need a little breather from focusing on my weight. I'll be back to check in soon though!

Congrats to everyone on maintaining/losing! You're all doing such a great job!

Dancer ~ The last couple suits I have bought were from Venus and Victoria Secret - I just buy on-line and hope they work!

Amy - thanks for the shopping tips!

rocketbunny - love your avatar pic! I'm sure you'll see the scale behaving this week!

tc - you have so much to be happy about - you've made such amazing progress this summer!

feeling so much better. Finally this virus has run its course. I went for a nice brisk walk yesterday evening and looking forward to another one tonight. We are having great fall weather which is perfect for outdoor exercise. So grateful to have my energetic back after feeling yucky last week. Confident I can pull another loss this week if I continue to keep my food journal and add exercise back in.

I ate at chipotle monday and subway yesterday but was careful and stayed on plan and meals at both places were at or below 500 calories. Great that with a bit of planning eating out (even at fast food places) can be included - not something I would want to do every day, but glad that there are options for healthy choices.

blueridge - so glad you're feeling better!

blueridgegirl--What do you eat at Chipolte? It's one of my favorites, and I have been craving Mexican!

if you go on their website you can access nutrition facts. The biggest way to save calories is by bypassing the tortilla (which is a lot of calories and carbs) and going for the burrito bowl. I get a burrito bowl with carnitas or barbacoa with rice, beans, green peppers, onions, mild salsa, and lettuce and it comes out to under 500 calories. If I plan ahead, I could include guacamole or cheese. It's a lot of food, tasty and filling, and a good balance of protein and carbs. Also, they use local, naturally-raised meat which is healthier.

Looooove Chipotle! :) I'm so impressed you were able to keep your food choices to healthy ones there! So often I give in and get the burrito... lol. Glad you're feeling better, blueridge!

Just stopping by for my weekly weigh in...

SW: 165
CW: 162
GW: 150

Making my way there, slowly but surely...

I'd love to join in this Thanksgiving challenge! I think it really helps to be able to break up the months with goals instead of feeling this huge looming 1,000 lb goal ahead of me. I have roughly 8 weeks left until Thanksgiving and I'm going for it--12 lbs at 1.5 lbs per week!

10/02: 229.5 (starting weight)
10/09: 228
10/16: 226.5
10/23: 225
10/30: 223.5
11/06: 222
11/13: 220.5
11/20: 219
11/25: 217.5

000/12

Welcome, bigsexy. Breaking it down into smaller goals definitely helps and a goal of 1.5 pound average loss a week seems reasonable and attainable.

I am usually an every-morning hop on the scale person but I resisted the temptation this morning since it is TOM and I don't want to depress myself. At least this time TOM doesn't fall on my official weekly weigh-in day! Hope you all are having a great Friday!

Hey everyone, hope you are doing great. Haven't checked in lately. I have been doing South beach since Monday and so far have lost 7lbs. I have about a week and a half more on the first phase of the diet. I'm looking foward to being able to add brown rice back into my meal plans. So my goal for thanksgiving was to be at 235.8.
SW: 248.8
CW: 245.4
I was on vacation last weekend in Seattle and I did not hold back while eating. I was up at 252.6 on Monday and for the previous weeks I could not get below 248. If I am able to get below 240 by the end of Phase 1, I might have to reevaluate my goals for Thanksgiving. Happy Friday and I hope your weekend is great!

Welcome, bigsexy!
Shasha - wow, south beach sounds like it's really working for you - way to go!

Sounds like everyone is having a good week. It's starting to get chilly outside (in Indiana), so I am going to try to take advantage and get in a couple of workouts outside before it gets too cold. I played tennis for Butler in college, and this weekend is the annual alumni match (former players come back and play against the current team). Its usually pretty social and fun, so I'm looking forward to it, but it will be good exercise too. Have a good weekend everyone!

Hi bigsexy! good luck!

woo..just got finished with a VERY busy and stressful week..its so hard to stay on track with so many other things to do..I could barely even squeeze in one day of running :[ amazingly, I still lost a lb this week! I'm down to 155! I've officially lost 60 lbs!!! It's so incredible...can't believe I'm only 7 lbs from my goal...sigh...looking forward to posting here more this week to help me get back to healthy living again. :D

I'm SO happy for everyone getting closer to their goals! Keep up the hard work! It's worth it!

Hi everyone--thanks for the warm welcome! :D I'm looking forward to seeing what can be accomplished by all of us by Thanksgiving!

Sasha it does sound like that South Beach is working for you--maybe I should give it a try. ;) Congrats on the "jump start" it's giving you!

SW 260
9/20 254.4
9/28 251.8
10/4 251.2 :(

Have a good week every one!!!!

Hi everybody! I'm going out of town for the week and so I won't be able to weigh in next Friday because there's no internet where I'll be. Yes, there are still places that exist with no internet. So anywho, I'll miss you guys this week! Everybody stay strong and remember how good it'll feel to sit down to your Thanksgiving feast even sexier than you were before!!! :D

10/02: 229.5 (starting weight)
10/09: 228: out of town
10/16: 226.5
10/23: 225
10/30: 223.5
11/06: 222
11/13: 220.5
11/20: 219
11/25: 217.5

000/12

SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8
9/13 - 230.8 (total loss 6)
9/20 - 235.2 (total loss 1.6)
9/27 - 231.8 (total loss 5)
10/4 - 230.8 (total loss 6)
10/11 -
10/18 -
10/25 -
11/1 -
11/8 -
11/15 -
11/22 -
11/26 -

Morning, girls!
Econerd - woohoo for your loss!
jellofer - hey - no unhappy face - down is still down! I personally couldn't handle the decimal points - I'm all for rounding ;)
jackieee - major congrats on your impressive loss to date -wtg!
I'm still on track with my *master plan* and lost two this week. Nervous about trying to lose two again this week - we head out for a short vacation on Friday and work is going to be crazy until then so the combo is not great for weight loss purposes but I'll see what I can do. I'll miss weigh-in next monday and won't be able to weigh properly until Weds.

Hope the good news keeps coming!


Sept 12: 170: 170
Sep 21: 169: 169
Sep 28: 168: 168
Oct 5: 166: 166
Oct 12: 164
Oct 19: 163
Oct 26: 162
Nov 2: 160
Nov 9: 159
Nov 16: 157
Nov 23: 155

Weighing in... 132.6... up .2 from last week. I'm soooo not happy. I worked out every day but one. I need to look closer at my diet... and I upped my workout minutes towards the end of last week so hopefully that will help for this coming week. But even though the scale isn't budging much, I can tell a difference in my body - I'm looking leaner and more toned, so that's good. At least all this work is doing something.

Hello, all! Okay, so I'm super new here, but I can already see that these mini goals are going to be my favorite part of the forums. I know I'm joining a little late, but I really want in on this one!

I'm setting a Thanksgiving goal for myself - a BIG one for me - my ONEderland! I'm shooting to lose 16 lbs (approximately 2 lbs a week) to officially put me at 199! (Oh, how my heart cries happiness just thinking of seeing a 1 there again.) So here goes! Hope you don't mind my lateness in joining!

SW: 215.2
GW: 199

10/10 -
10/17 -
10/24 -
10/31 -
11/7 -
11/14 -
11/21 -
11/26 -

Welcome Angee! These mini goals are wonderful - a great way to stay motivated! The gals here are very supportive, too! I'm sure you'll like it here!

Thanks dancerindenver!!!! I had a revalation today and am sticking with it. My numbers will change!! I think I upped my exercise a bit much and that may be affecting it. Other than that I think I just need to be patient!!! But thank you again for your support!!

Hi all,

I'm back for another one of my intermittent posts! The past month (I just started my second year of law school) has been absolutely nuts and there hasn't been much time to focus on weight loss. I haven't been out of control, either, so that's good news! Usually the stress makes me pig out, but I've been pretty good about keeping things in check. But workouts have been intermittent and I haven't been tracking my calories, so I've definitely stalled a bit. But at least I've maintained!!!

But yesterday a friend from school told me that I look like I've lost weight since the beginning of the school year :) So here's to hoping there's a "whoosh" around the corner where the scale catches up. I'm feeling motivated to hit my 10% overall goal.

And about 20 hours/week of job hunting and a class are about to come to an end, which will free up tons more time. Things are looking up! And I have a job for next summer. :carrot:

I've enjoyed reading the boards and am psyched there has been so much good news to report.

9/14, 166, 167
9/21, 165, 165
9/28, 164, 165
10/5, 162, 165
10/12, 161
10/19, 160
10/26, 159
11/2, 158 (10% overall goal)
11/9, 157
11/16, 156
11/23, 155

angee - welcome! I'm addicted to the weekly goals myself - can't wait to see you get to onederland!

kpme - maintaining is an achievement in itself, especially with all of the stress you have going on!

amy - looking leaner and toned is the whole point - no one else sees the scale besides you. Congrats on the NSV!

dancer- good luck on your 2lbs this week. You seem to be losing steadily. That is the best way to do it.

shrinking amy- Sorry about the .2 increase. I know how frusturating it can be. Just keep doing what you are doing and it will come off.

angee- welcome to the challenge and good luck with your goals!

jellofer- that is the right attitude. We all have our ups and downs, but as long as we keep trucking along even with a stuck scale, there will be a loss.

kpme- well it looks like even with all your stress you are maintaining. I hope you get more time to yourself now that your schedule seems to be clearing up.

Thanks Shasha!!!! and decrease it did. 251.8 yesterday 250.6 today!!!! So close to the new decade!!! It is just frustrating sometimes. I am doing high protein and low carb for life......I haven't had bread or pasta in almost 2 months and will hardly be able to eat it again. This is what is working for me. I get most of my carbs from vegetables. Maybe things will losen up once I get to goal, but the withdrawal from it all was awful. Then to get stuck at the same weight after putting up such nice numbers every week was tough. I felt like I had given up so much. But then I had a glimpse of what my future may hold if I didn't continue on with my new lifestyle and that did it. So today was a good day and it will continue.

I am going to have some fun with my spiritual advisor and then give and get a great massage. I am in school to become a therapist, and my advisor is also. She has dropped over 40 pounds and has found new life, so we get along famously. We have a standing date to practice on one another every other tuesday. And that usually helps me to refocus and move things around. Fingers crossed for a new decade in the am!!!

Here is a big revalation that I just had........ I am officially at a 10% loss!!!!! What am I crying about!!! WOOHHOOOO!!!!!:carrot::D:love::spin::jig::bravo::c p::hat::cb::flow1::dancer::encore::cheer3::sunny:: goodscale:running:

Can I join in? I've been steadily gaining and it's time to get skinny. I know I won't lose it all by Thanksgiving, but I'm off to a good start. Mostly lean meat and veggies, basic low carb. I did well on South Beach a few years ago, just got into trouble when I started eating the old way again. I know now that I'll always have to watch the starchy foods.

:welcome3: Becky! I'm sure you'll love it here!

Thanks, Amy. Morning, everybody!

Welcome Jazzbird!!!

Angee - welcome! Onderland by Thanksgiving is my goal as well, so it's great to have another member with the same number goal.

Dancer - you are doing great. I'm so impressed by your consistency!

Jellofer - keep up the great work. 10% is a big landmark goal. And I've heard there are all kinds of health benefits in losing just 10% of body weight. Great that you are promoting overall well being with massage and meeting with a spiritual advisor - those are things I do regularly, too!

kpme - nice job maintaining in the midst of your hectic schedule!

Jazzbird - welcome! I know what you mean about those starches...! It's all about veggies and healthy protein, balanced with a reasonable amount of carb. Sigh...unfortunately I'm a fan of mountains of pasta or piles of hot pancakes, so trying to retrain myself!

No loss for me this week - I got away from writing things down, and, sure enough, didn't lose. Plus had a birthday celebration (with cake) in there, as well as a breakfast out which was more food than I needed. Pretty clear to me that the food journal and the calorie count is the way for me to go, so yesterday got back on the wagon and started doing it again. Have been working out more consistently - took a dance class monday and a long walk last night, and plan to take another one today. So committing NOW to all of you that I WILL be reporting a loss on Monday!

Thanks bluerdigegirl!!!

From what I have a read I have now cut my risk for diabetes, cancer and heart disease in half!!! Just 10% did that. So, now it is time for another 10% so that would be 25 pounds!!! I can do it. Like someone once said. I may not be able to lose 100+ pounds, but I can lose 5 pounds 20 times!!!! So that is my plan. I have almost done it 6 times already.

I find that my advisor helps me to get things in check. Plus the massage work is so needed.

Have a great day everyone!!!

I would like to join!! I need to get on track - this will definitely help me - I love all the support that everyone provides! I wish you all well and lots of willpower!

10/7 - 210.8
10/15 -
10/22
10/31 - Halloween Goal: 200.8
11/5 -
11/12 -
11/19 -
11/26 - Thanksgiving Goal: 190

Bexx - welcome!

Dancer - Thanks! I just moved from the Denver area to Frisco in Summit County...

I live in Maryland with my wonderful husband of 25+ years and 3 dogs. I had major abdominal surgery on the 18th of Sept so excersize besides walking is not yet possible but I would like to join in anyway.
start 9/17/09 257 BIG ones:( bigger that I have ever been:o
today 10/07/09 241
goal 145 lbs I will weight in every monday.
P.S. I am sooo thankful I found this wonderful site.:D

Whip - welcome and good luck with your recovery! Do you have a goal that you're shooting for for thanksgiving?

bexx - Frisco should be fun - lots of good winter exercise options around, right? What's your eating and exercise plan?

my goal by Thanksgiving is 227 lbs a total of 14 lbs eek I hope thats realistic:?:
my sweet hubby bought me a wii fit so this weekend I plan to start doing very moderate slow paced excersize plus my walking routine.:D

Whip - I love the Wii Fit! I just need to start getting up earlier so that I can use mine more frequently.

Dancer - My plan is just to stop eating what my BF eats. :-) Healthy, non-processed foods. Limit to 1200 calories this week, maybe 1500+ on the weekends to include wine, and extra activity. I plan on major hikes on the weekends until the ski areas open - at least until Copper opens since that's where I have a season pass. During the week, I'm just going to try to walk with my dog for an hour and try to squeeze in some Wii Fit in the mornings... What's your plan? What's worked for you?

Hello all!! New here to the website and stumbled across this challenge! I am going to jump on the wagon! My current weight is 238 and I would like to be 215 by Turkey day! Here we go!!:D

Welcome, wnabapinup! Glad to have you join us!

Bexx - nice to see another Colorado chick on here. :D I like the idea "stop eating what BF eats" plan, haha. That's encompasses a lot of what I do, too!

Fat Pants - It seems as though my metabolism can't keep up with a 150lb 5'9 man whose typical dinner before meeting me was McDonald's supersized value meal with a side of a fried chicken sandwich lol. I'm more of a small salad with dressing on the side.... :-)

Fat pants got a few running questions for you...
Were you a runner before?
how did you begin?
I have always wanted to do the running thing! I hear that it is great stress relief and a huge calorie blaster... just dont know where to start... any advice?:^:

wnabapinup - welcome!!!
Bexx - sounds like a good plan! I have a hard time sticking to 1200 so I've been fluctuating around 1400ish and trying to exercise 5x/wk for an hour or so.
whip - that sounds fairly aggressive but if you're at the beginning of your efforts, you may see a big drop early. We'll be here to cheer you on along the way! If your surgery was related to weight loss, then I have no idea as I don't know much about the rate of weight loss you can expect.

wnabapinup - welcome!!!
Bexx - sounds like a good plan! I have a hard time sticking to 1200 so I've been fluctuating around 1400ish and trying to exercise 5x/wk for an hour or so.
whip - that sounds fairly aggressive but if you're at the beginning of your efforts, you may see a big drop early. We'll be here to cheer you on along the way! If your surgery was related to weight loss, then I have no idea as I don't know much about the rate of weight loss you can expect.

do you think that I am not eating enough calories? I have lost 17 lbs since Sept 18th. I had a radical hysterectomy.

whip - major congrats on your losses so far! Especially since you're in recovery mode - that's very impressive. Maybe I missed a post (I went back to check) but I didn't see that you had mentioned what your calorie level is right now. (My comments about 1200 were in response to Bexx - and that may be a great, maintainable level for her, just not so much for me ;) ) We're a chatty bunch, sharing lots of details about what's worked for us but everyone's so different - there's no way for someone else to really know what will work best for you. I've found some of the calorie calculators online to be a huge help.http://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm was a useful one I thought. And I'm addicted to using thedailyplate.com to track food intake and exercise - check it out if you haven't seen it already. Best of luck on your journey - sounds like you're off to a great start! One of my buddies had that kind of hysterectomy two years ago and she really had to take it easy for a while so keep being gentle with yourself!

wnab - a lot of the other chickies have used a program called Couch to 5K (google for more info), which I think starts with walking and jogging intervals which seems to be the best way to get started for most people. If you've never run before, it may be worth going to a running store and getting fitted for a good shoe to prevent injuries. Have fun! You may get as addicted as fatpants (aka skinny jeans) and I are!

Hey folks, thanks for all the welcomes. I went shopping today and found a handbag that I just loved, but I can't buy it until I lose another pound. I promised that I would buy myself something nice every 5 pounds. I'm just hoping it will still be there when I get to 155. If not, oh well, I'll have to find something else. How do you ladies reward yourself?

DancerinDenver, Thank you so much for the link! all of you are a wonderful group of girls...:D

Hello Jazzbird - My reward isn't exactly a reward - it's motivation. I'm heading to the beach next month for my best friend's wedding so I'm working out hard so I can look good in a bathing suit, shorts, summer dresses, and my bridesmaid dress. If I can rock a bathing suit come November 4th, that is all the reward I need!

OOOHHH!!! this thread is turning out to be so much fun. The support on here is awesome.

shrinkingamyyour bathing suit trip in November is similar to my disney trip next april for my 10 year anniversary. I wanna rock the cute summer clothes and bathing suits. I also thought what an anniversary gift for myself. A whole new healthy and fit me.

To all the new posters!!! Welcome and best wishes to you all.

The couch to 5K training is awesome!!! google it and review all of the programs. I am doing the one posted by coolrunnings. It is tough, but I love it. I feel so empowered when I am finished.

wow you guys are great the only bathing suit I have worn in years resembles a tarp LOL but I will keep trying;)

Thats ok whip, mine looks more like a safety harness. But my little suit days are in my future!!! And once I get there I will wear it everywhere!!!! :)

wnab - I'm doing Couch to 5K (C25K), too - I just completed Week 1 yesterday and it is interval training of walk/jog (at least the first several weeks). You an find it on cool runnings website. Also, there's a thread in the exercise forum called "C25K - How Do I Know If I'm Ready To Move On?" (http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/exercise/172039-c25k-how-do-i-know-im-ready-move-22.html#post2961296). The thread has been going for quite a while so there's a lot of great info - one of the other girls showed it to me so I'm paying it forward!

Jellofer - I'm with you on wearing the suit everywhere! so what if it's december and I'm just going to the grocery store! lol! Motivational tools like wearing a bathing suit are much better for me that "rewards" because even if I don't hit goal, I don't have enough self control to not just get whatever it is I was going to reward myself with anyway - rationalizing with the whole "I'll hit goal next week" excuse and yet never actually hit goal, maybe even fall completely of the wagon! With this trip, I can either feel great wearing a bathing suit or feel like crap wearing a bathing suit covered up by a t-shirt and shorts looking at all those flaunting their suits proudly! And that's not my idea of fun! And I plan to have FUN!

Fat pants got a few running questions for you...
Were you a runner before?
how did you begin?
I have always wanted to do the running thing! I hear that it is great stress relief and a huge calorie blaster... just dont know where to start... any advice?:^:

Hi! Hope I can answer your questions...

No I was not a runner before. In fact the last time I ran before I started this journey was back in high school, sooo it had probably been 12 years or so since I ran (and only because I was forced to for gym class lol).

Like Dancer mentioned, I did start out using the C25k program (google Couch to 5k). It is run/walk intervals and it helped me get started because I was VERY obese and out of shape at that point. Running for one minute almost killed me haha. I have lost pretty much all the weight from running when I started back in February. I LOVE running, I think it is something I will do for the rest of my life because not only does it get you in good shape, it is a huge emotional outlet and stress reliever. Whenever I feel stressed or emotionally bent out of shape, I go for a run and usually by the end of the first mile, I have solved the world's problems. :lol:

Seriously though... it has changed my life. :)

I second Dancer's advice to go to an actual running store (not one like Sports Authority or big box stores) and get fitted for shoes. It will make all the difference in the world. Also check out some books by John Bingham - "Running for Mortals" and "The Courage to Start," he really speaks to beginner runners and makes running not so intimidating and Running for Mortals is a great intro book for running.

Bexx - tell me about it!! If only I could put away food like my husband does and not gain a pound...ugh.. men! ;)

Jazzbird - I usually just reward myself with new clothes! :lol: for 50 lbs lost, however, I got my hair cut & colored for the fall. I plan on getting a pedicure for 60 lbs lost (gotta pretty up my beat up runner's feet!) and 75 lbs (ultimate goal) well... I want a new wardrobe! :D

Oops forgot the reason why I jumped on here...

I blasted my way into the 150s this week! I know it's a day early for my weigh in but I am SO stoked after a month of hovering between 164-162! :carrot:

I just may actually make my Thanksgiving goal after all!

Great chat, ladies - and welcome new folks! First want to share my good news, which I'm a bit cautious about sharing since it is not my official weigh in day, but I do check in every day and today was down a pound, at 208.5. So I am hoping I will register that number, or even lower for my official weigh in day on Monday. I am being disciplined about measuring, counting, and writing things down, so if I can stick to that I think I'll have good news on weigh in day. Kind of embarrassed to admit it, but I sometimes watch the biggest loser, and something motivating me right now is to weigh less than the smallest contestant, who as of Tuesday was at something like 213 pounds - so I need to keep losing if I want to stay ahead! Sort of a weird motivator, but hey, whatever works. Onderland is getting closer and closer!

I am there with you in the eating plan of "not what my BF eats." Mine is a stone mason (hello, muscles) who can put away a chipotle burrito with everything or a big philly cheesecake sandwich and think nothing of it. Hey, he is exercising all day long at work, so I guess he deserves it.

I am all about the rewards - since I am losing so slowly, I actually give myself a little reward every pound or two. I am hoping to get to 208 so that I can buy a new sports bra - not 'allowed' to yet. :) Other incentives might be a trip to the thrift store (I definitely need new jeans - I am currently wearing a pair that I was wearing when I weighed 25 pounds more and I now can pull them off without unbuttoning or unzipping them!) or new songs on my ipod. Of course, looking and feeling better is its own reward, but somehow these little prizes motivate me...I guess I was always into the 'sticker chart' in first grade and never really outgrew it...lol.

fatpants - it's great to hear the story of your running! I want to lose a bit more (for the sake of my knees) and then definitely want to get into it regularly and would love to do a 5k in the spring. I have run when I have been at lower weights before and really enjoyed it.

Gotta go - have a great, on plan day friends!

Good morning to all!!!
Fat pants & Dancer - Thank you so much for the advice I have printed out the schedule and I am going to go look for shoes tonight!!!
Have a great day!!

Morning, girls!
Having some new folks join us is great - you guys are reminding me how important it is to stay disciplined and to keep up the momentum! I've been on plan (more or less) since May but I'm starting to find myself eyeing the Halloween candy at the grocery store so it's time to do something drastic.

:witch: :witch: :witch: :witch: :witch:

Who's with me on taking the pledge and just saying no to Halloween candy this year?

My personal weakness are those mellowcreme pumpkins (like candy corn) and I WILL NOT be buying any this year. Not sure how I'm going to handle trick or treaters but maybe I'll only buy candy I don't like and give any leftovers to my bf.

blueridge :dance: :dance: :dance: Congrats on your losses! You are doing great!

fatpants - holy cow, girl! You are amazing - way to go on getting to the 150s! That calls for a happy dance around the kitchen! :dancer: :dancer: :dancer:

jazzbird - One of my initial motivations was needing to wear a strapless bridesmaid's dress in September. My next biggie, although self-created, is a trip to Costa Rica in January that will definitely involve bathing suits which I've cleverly avoided for years ;) In the meantime, I'm all about constant rewards. I've literally had to replace my wardrobe - first shopping in my own spare-room closet, then on clearance racks. And I've been doing all kinds of fun self-improvement stuff too - botox, microdermabrasion, laser hair removal and laser removal of sun spots. Each were rewards for reaching different goals along the way.

Have a great day all - I better get out for my run and then get going on work.

Fat Pants- Congrats on getting into the 150's! You are getting so close to your goal, I'm sure you will be there in no time.

Dancer- I want in on that pledge. I started South Beach last week and I'm pretty sure other than very small amounts of dark chocolate, I'm not allowed any fun sized candy for halloween hehe.

blueridge- So close to onederland! I can't wait until I get there too. I know what you mean about guys. Mine can eat like a horse and not gain.

I'm almost done with phase 1 of South beach. I haven't been perfect though. I got through the first week with no slipups, but then yesterday I had a lean pocked because I was famished and there was nothing else to eat. But the weight has been coming off at a pretty consistant rate. I'm looking foward to monday because I can start adding certain things back into my diet. I weighed in today at 241.8 so that means 6.8 lbs more to meet the Thanksgiving challenge. I really hope I can blow this one out of the water and go below that.

Dancer - where in Costa Rica are you going? I was in Los Suenos a couple years ago - it was amazing!

Fat Pants - Congrats on hitting the 150 mark! That's awesome!

Amy - We're spending a few days in the cloud forest (hiking and bird-watching) then we're headed to Manuel Antonio, a couple of hours drive south of where you were. Should be fun! Am very much hoping to have met my goal by then so I can wear a bathing suit without cringing or hiding behind coverups.

We're headed out to San Francisco this weekend to see my bf's dad and stepmom. I still have a long way to go but it's nice to feel like I have cute and flattering clothes to wear and that I'm in far better shape than the last time I saw them (30+ lbs ago). Hope everyone has a great weekend.

Dancer, have fun in SF! Enjoy the non-wintery weather out there! ;)

Just stopping by for my weekly weigh in...

SW: 165
CW: 159
GW: 150

Just 7 weeks left until Thanksgiving...crazy! How is everyone else doing on their goals?

Fat Pants- Congrats on breaking into the 150's!

Here are my current stats:
SW: 250.6
CW: 241.8
GW: 235.6

Dancer - I'm with you on skipping the Halloween candy. Or I will try. It's already been hard. I allowed myself some candy corn a couple of weeks ago - so I've satisfied that annual urge and can pass it up until next October. Unfortunately I carry candy with me at all times. It's a good icebreaker when I'm trying to get kids to open up to me (I'm a school psychologist), ok it's not so much an icebreaker as a bribe...but it works!! I've been pretty good about it so far - just one PB cup in the last 3 weeks or so, but they are SOOOO bad for me!! No more! I can do this....

I haven't weighed in, in a couple of days...I'm scared. But it can't be that bad. I had a stomach bug so all I've eaten in the last almost 24 hrs is one piece of low carb toast...it seems to be staying down so I am going to have some lunch in a little bit (chicken broth with a little bit of rice noodles - nothing harsh). We will see how that goes. I've been craving apples since we went apple picking...maybe tonight my tummy will be up for it.

I'm not having much difficulty sticking to the 1200 calories this week. Partly because of the stomach bug and partly because I've been filling up on lettuce, baby carrots, apples, etc. Low calorie foods. I made some pickled green beans which are FABULOUS and spicy and very low calorie. I highly recommend pickling for something different but still low cal veggies. I've done the green beans, some pickling cukes, cauliflower, carrots, onions....mmmmm all so good!!

I started the day with a 1 mile brisk walk with the pup, just to get me going. It's tough to fit it in though...I wake up at 6 and have to leave the house by 645. I could get up earlier - I've tried, but it just doesn't work. I like my warm cozy bed...and it's cold outside.

Sorry - this is the first time I've posted all day so I have kind of gone rambling on...I will weigh in tonight when I get home from work and let you all know how I'm doing.

Keep working hard - congrats on everyone's successes!!

Fatpants - congrats on the 150s.

Dancer - I love SF! What a great city! Have a great time!

Bexx - low cal veggies are a great way to eat a lot and not be hungry in order to meet calorie targets, I'm finding that too. I had a big green salad at dinner last night so ate less lasagna than I would have otherwise.

Well, if I keep up the good work the next 3 days, I am hopeful I will be at 208 (or even below!) on Monday, which means that I will have just over a pound a week for the next 7 weeks to be at goal - seems doable! I'd love to burn through this decade pretty quickly after being stalled for so long. Doing well today and continuing to see low numbers on the scale but it won't be 'official' til weigh in day!

Dancer - I am with you on halloween candy! I find 100 calories worth of dark chocolate after dinner is nice, and I just discovered this Newman's Own organic peppermint cups - they come in a package of three and each one is only 60 calories, so it's a nice little dessert that doesn't add up to much in my calorie couting. Other than that - no mini candy bars, no candy corn, no caramel apples for me!

Okay, super busy day at work but still making plans for a workout this afternoon. Have a great, on-plan weekend everybody! Look forward to sharing good news Monday and hearing all of yours!

Ooooh, you gals are awesome! Bathing suit? I'm not even going there for another, oh, 20 pounds. If you can do that Amy, you go girl.

I finally lost another pound, so I can treat myself. I was afraid I'd really screwed up because my eating hasn't been all that great the last couple of days. I've been in workshops and it wasn't easy to find stuff that fit the diet. I guess it worked, because I'm lighter. That makes 5 pounds for my first week. I know that weight loss slows down after the first couple weeks, but it's nice to get started off with a bang.

Sasha, I'm doing South Beach also. I've done it before and it worked, so I'll just stick better this time. I'm not doing the phases exactly. I started phase 1 with just a teeny weeny bit of carb in there and plan to stay this way indefinitely.

Dancer, I'm envious of the Costa Rica thing. I used to do a lot of hiking and birding until an ankle fracture sidelined me. I still hike now and then but much shorter distances. Have a great time for both of us!

Today is my weigh-in day! Thanksgiving Onderland results as follows:

SW: 215
GW: 199

10/10 (GW 213): 213
10/17 (GW 211):
10/24: (GW 209):
10/31: (GW 207):
11/7: (GW 205):
11/14: (GW 203):
11/21: (GW 201):
11/26: (GW 199):

Right on track! YAY! :D

You are all doing SO well, and it's very motivating for me! Keep up the good work all! :)

Is it too late to join the challenge? I'm pretty new to 3FC, but I'd still like to see what I can do by Thanksgiving!

SW: 207
GW: 190

Polaris - welcome! You still have seven weeks til Thanksgiving, so set a goal and let us know what steps you will take to get there.

Angeee - congrats on hitting your goal. Right on the mark.

So today got up, and on a whim, starting rifling through my 'clothes I will wear when I am skinnier' drawer. I do a lot of shopping at second hand stores where things are cheap but if I come across something I like I'll buy it so that I can fit into it in 5, 10, or 20 pounds. Several months ago I got this size 10 dark blue denim skirt that comes to mid-calf that just really caught my eye. It was way too small - couldn't zip it at all, just had way too much belly to make it work. This morning, just curious, I slid it on and zipped it and have been wearing it all day. It fits comfortably, I mean, it really fits, not like the "I'm trying to convince myself this fits but it's really uncomfortable" - you know what I mean! Just got my first compliment from a friend "This is a beautiful skirt! And you look slimmer!"

It's a size 10, folks, size TEN! That's one size away from being a single digit size, and it is so, SO not plus sized. Wow! I can hardly believe it! My progress has been slow but an experience like this makes me recognize it as definite progress! Yay! Already day-dreaming about the stores I will shop it when I am a size 8! Thanks for all your motivation and support, friends!

177.2 as of this morning.


Mini goal for this thread: 172 before Thanksgiving (My 10 year reunion is that weekend)– Will no longer be obese according to height (BMI 28.8), Lowest Weight since July 2006

Kat

blueridegirl - that is so exciting! A size 10! BIG congrats!!

Katarina - Your total loss is so impressive! I know how it feels to want to look your best for the big reunion. I've got 3 years before mine, but 3 years goes by fast - and I realized I better start getting presentable NOW! Haha!

Congrats Jazzbird on your 5lb loss!

Blueridgegirl - way to go on your NSV!

Welcome Newbies.

Not much been going on with me. Finished W2D2 of C25K today. Been eating OK, but TOM is here so who knows what the scale will say on Monday morning!

Thanks Angee. I'm 8 1/2 years post op for gastric bypass surgery...hit my lowest weight (155) in 04 and then got lazy. I am now fighting my way back from a 40 lb rebound in weight over the past 5 years. I was 197 July 21, 2009...177 now (October 11). April 20 is my surgery anniversary, and I want to finally hit 150 by that day...9 years after surgery.

So, here I am...back into the weight loss groove. :)

Kat

No change this week...

SW: 236.8
GW: 214.8
9/13 - 230.8 (total loss 6)
9/20 - 235.2 (total loss 1.6)
9/27 - 231.8 (total loss 5)
10/4 - 230.8 (total loss 6)
10/11 - 230.8 (total loss 6)
10/18 -
10/25 -
11/1 -
11/8 -
11/15 -
11/22 -
11/26 -

Thanks ladies for the support..somwhere around page six!..lol .. Well i finally got a scale after i kept spending my scale budget, being on a mommy college allowance and buying a scale was hard! So i want to start off right this week!

Kat- it ok girl if the number just stayed where we wanted it sheshh, i swear i would have the biggest closet in the world..no give away, rip opens, Id keep all my clothes! We will get there!

Blueridgegirl- GREAT..... i sooo kno that feeling!!! Keep it up!

Jazzbird- Yes always think of it a a bang!.. When loosing weight we have to excited about every ounce of a pound! Its what keep us going!



10-12-215.6
10-19
10-26

Good morning, friends. Here to share my good news about this morning's weigh-in: I'm at 208, which is down 1 1/2 pound from last week. That makes a total of 28 pounds so far. I'm pretty pleased. Now I just need to lose something like 1.2 pounds a week to make it to onderland by Thanksgiving. I'm hoping now that I'm in weight loss mode and I can settle into a routine of 1-2 pound loss a week for a few weeks the way I did in May before my thyroid medication changed, I went to Boston for a month and entered plateau-land!

I'm off to the department store to buy a new bra, my reward for 208! Also saw some friends yesterday that I haven't seen in a while and got some positive feedback from there re my appearance which is encouraging, too.

Hope that the rest of you have good news to share. Keep up the great work and have a fabulous Monday!

monday morning weight in I went from a beginning weight of 257lbs 9/17/09 to242lbs 10/05/09 to todays weight of 237.4lbs whoo!! hoo!! and a starting BMI of 43.05 to 41.15. I am very happy with my progress however small it is aleast it is in the right direction...:carrot:

jazz- Ohh nice to see someone else on SB. Yesterday was supposed to be my last day on phase 1, but I am extending it until Friday because of some small slip ups here and there. Nothing major atleast though.

blueridge- Congrats on losing almost 30lbs!

Sorry, I know I'm missing a bunch more personals, but something came up at work. I will catch up with everyone later.

Hey gals, sorry to be AWOL. It's just one thing after another right now. I thought I blew the diet, but I'm happy to say I'm still on track. I weigh every day, which some people don't like to do, but I find it keeps me motivated. I just keep in mind that some days it will be slightly higher, but the total effect is DOWN!

Blueridge, that's wonderful! I can so understand your feeling. I have a blue jean skirt in my closet that I wore 15 years ago. It's the only thing from that time that I still have, and it's the symbol to me of ultimate achievement. When I can wear that skirt again, I've made it.

Congratulations to all on your victories!

I weighed early since I had to go to the doctor...so I'm updating. 2 more lbs since Saturday morning! 211! 12 more lbs to go before Thanksgiving! I'll check back in after my official weigh-in on Saturday.

SW: 215
GW: 199

10/10 (GW 213): 213
[early check-in 10/13: 211]
10/17 (GW 211):
10/24: (GW 209):
10/31: (GW 207):
11/7: (GW 205):
11/14: (GW 203):
11/21: (GW 201):
11/26: (GW 199):

Hey ladies, I'm jumping on board. Better late than never I suppose. There are 44 days between now and Thanksgiving, I'd like to loose 9lbs. That would put me at a rate of about 1.5 a week. I'd also like to keep that pace up until Christmas so I'll be below 200 for the end of the year.

The plan:
Food: 1650 calories/ day - with 10 alloted days where I can "eat back" my calories to avoid being overly hungry and binging. No alcohol.
Exercise: 150 minutes/week - mainly on the elliptical. I hope to ramp this up once I get out of PT.

Oh, and I get one of these for every 5 lbs I loose: :df:
Hopefully I'll have two more by Thanksgiving ;)

I'm in!

Let's see...6 more weeks to go...so I'll shoot for ten pounds.

SW: 146.8
GW: 136.8

Updates:

update I am going to make this challenge!!
sw 257lbs 9/17/09
241lbs 10/7/09
today 10/14/09 235.9lbs my goal is 14lbs by Thanksgiving from sw of 241lbs
weight loss total in 4 weeks is 21.1 pds:)

Wow, Whip! You rock! What is your secret?

Welcome, Sunny Gee and Marbear. Marbear it looks like you have a good plan laid out for yourself. Our stats are similiar and I'm shooting for between 1500-1600 calories a day. I'm also aiming for a rate of 1.5 pounds loss a week.

Have a great day, all! I am fighting off a bit of a cold but doing lots of vitamin C and echinacea tea and will still get a workout in this afternoon.

well Blue, I had to fast before a hysterectomy on 9/18/09 nothing but clear broth and water then as I was recovering from sugery I noticed I was really dropping the weight so I decided to keep it up by eating lots and lots of food but its the right kind of food I eat all day long and never ever let myself get hungry I eat all the vegi's I want all the fruit I want and have a sensable dinner like fish, white meat chicken, shrimp,crab and I do have bread with all my dinners I refuse to make any food forbidden for me I know if I do I will fail(BREAD IS MY WEAKNESS) so I just made my own weight loss plan by thinking about what I am eating before I stick in in my mouth plus I threw out all the junk food in my house that helps and it also helps that I love vegi's and I have never been a sweet eater. its all about moderation for me because I know whats good for me and whats not.I have tried lots of diets and all bored me to death I am not a calorie counter or a fat gram counter and I refuse to let my life revolve around a diet so I quit dieting and started eating right and nature is taking its course.:carrot:oh I have started doing Wii fit plus slowly b/c I am still healing but man I love Wii fit plus

Congratulations Whip! That's fantastic.
I wish I was as motivated and determined as you are....Saturday I did such a good job in the morning, I had low carb toast for breakfast, went on a nice long hike with my BF and our dog....then on the way home from the hike, we decided to stop at the liquor store. We met up with a friend there, and decided to have a board game night. Long story short, her husband joined us and we drank. A lot. And then we got hungry, so we ordered pizza. Granted - I walked to pick up the pizza and it's a little more than a mile round trip...but BAD BEXX. :-( I'm so unhappy with myself. I gained after the weekend, and weigh in this morning shows I am only down NOT EVEN a pound since I started last week. Stupid drinking binge - NOT AGAIN!! I'm so mad at myself.

Congratulations Whip! That's fantastic.
I wish I was as motivated and determined as you are....Saturday I did such a good job in the morning, I had low carb toast for breakfast, went on a nice long hike with my BF and our dog....then on the way home from the hike, we decided to stop at the liquor store. We met up with a friend there, and decided to have a board game night. Long story short, her husband joined us and we drank. A lot. And then we got hungry, so we ordered pizza. Granted - I walked to pick up the pizza and it's a little more than a mile round trip...but BAD BEXX. :-( I'm so unhappy with myself. I gained after the weekend, and weigh in this morning shows I am only down NOT EVEN a pound since I started last week. Stupid drinking binge - NOT AGAIN!! I'm so mad at myself.
well life happens. just don't let one bad night ruin your tomorrow dust yourself off and get back on track that's what I do. I have learned that being too hard on myself for too long leads to more destuctive behavior. so I drop it step on it and forget it and tell my self I WILL.... have a better tomorrow :D

Sw 260
9/20 254.4
9/28 251.8
10/4 251.2
10/14 248.8!!!!!

jellofer - way to go!

bexx - bummer about the bad night but the longer I do this, the more I'm convinced that as long as you don't let one bad meal/day/night derail the whole process, your overall trend will be down every month. You can do this! Figure out your triggers or major temptations and come up with a plan of attack!

whip - holy cow - you are just cranking! WTG!

sunnygee and marbear - welcome!!!

angee - congrats on the loss! Woohoo!

jazzbird - way to stay on track!

I'm catching up after a long weekend away (maintained but no loss) so I'm sure I've missed a lot. Congrats to all the happy losers!

I forgot to post my weigh in on Monday... I was up to 133 but I was bloated to no end - however, that's going away and I've weighted 132 for the last two days - hoping for 131 tomorrow as this water leaves my system. We shall see.

Although the scale isn't showing as much change as I was hoping, my body is changing in a huge way! Clothes that I could barely fit into a couple months ago are now too big! I just have to not get cocky and keep up the work or the weight will fly back on in two seconds flat.

Welcome to all the new folks on this thread.

amy - woohoo on your progress! aren't too loose clothes the absolute best? ;)

Back from vaca and it looks like everyone is doing great! HahaAmy I haven't even started Day 1 of C25K, but oh well. Glad to see you're seeing some results! Jellofer you eat low carb like south beach? It seems to work for you!

I know I'm weighing in a day early, but I missed weighing so much I couldn't help it!!!
10/02: 229.5 (starting weight)
10/09: 228: vaca
10/16: 226.5: 225.5 :D
10/23: 225
10/30: 223.5
11/06: 222
11/13: 220.5
11/20: 219
11/25: 217.5

4/12

bigsexy - woohoo! you are doing great!

bigsexy!!!!awesome job!!! You are killing it! I do eat high protein low carb. More like atkins. gotta long way to go.....but I know that I will get there!!! Keep at it!

Dancer - don't worry about just maintaining, you have been losing steadily so one week of maintenance isn't so bad.

Jellofer - congrats on hitting the thirty pound mark. I am hoping to get there real soon myself!

Bexx - I can sympathize with you. Today we have a staff retreat and it was fun, but one of my colleagues made this pound cake with lemon and OMG it was great and I had a big piece. That was four hours ago and I'm still feeling full. I guess on the bright side I had a reasonable lunch of chili and salad, and didn't get roped into the two-bite brownies (those things should be illegal...) but yeah, not pleased with the pound cake consumption. Oh, well, back on the wagon. Lots of water and light dinner tonight, and then head to the gym for a good session on the elliptical and treadmill. Three more days til I way in so if I'm disciplined I can still pull off a loss this week.

blueridge - small oops on the pound cake but sounds like you recovered incredibly well - good for you!

arrgh, up 1.5 lb on the scale today...perhaps shouldn't have weighed in the morning after a slip up. But I'm hoping it doesn't really count and will disappear tomorrow. Thanks Dancer as always for the encouragement. I did have a great work out in the gym - 4.5 miles on elliptical and treadmill, followed by strength training.

blueridgenice job at the gym.....sometimes those are my worst mornings to weigh in. I don't know what happens to me, but I seem to go up or stay the same after a great work out. But my body feels different. So, I just chalk it up to my body readjusting the fat and storing water for a few days. Then usually i get a little whoosh!!! Hang in there, you are doing great!!!

SO, Got on the scale this am. 247.0 That is a new low for me......Last time I was in the 240's was february 2000!!!! It feels weird. But I will still celbrate it. I just might make my Thanksgiving goal after all!!! Cold still not good. Had a hard time sleeping last night. Runny nose and cough. Think I took enough drugs to kill a horse, but managed to get some rest. Through some miracle a pal at worked offered to work the first 1/2 of my shift. So instead of up at 0500 I don't have to go in until 1pm. Yipee!!!!

Have a great day ladies!!!

Hey ladies. I'm planning on submitting my updates every Wednesday ( as I joined this past Wednesday) but I forgot to put one in to start. So here it goes, this is my progress in the last 3 days...
Weight: 213.8

Challenge: Calories: 1650 or under - CHECK

Exercise: 30/150 min per week

Days left to eat calories back: X X X X X X X X X X

LBS left until goal: 8.8

Hey ladies. I'm planning on submitting my updates every Wednesday ( as I joined this past Wednesday) but I forgot to put one in to start. So here it goes, this is my progress in the last 3 days...
Weight: 213.8

Challenge: Calories: 1650 or under - CHECK

Exercise: 30/150 min per week

Days left to eat calories back: X X X X X X X X X X

LBS left until goal: 8.8

Hey marbear! Glad you joined us. :D I think your plan sounds like a good one!

jellofer - great job on the loss!!! I also maintain or go up after a big work out... I have read that when you are breaking down the muscle fibers, the muscle then retains water as a way to repair them. While my weight loss is erratic, one thing I have always been able to count on is that if I'm "feeling" the workout, there's a good chance I'm going to maintain/gain for the next 2-3 days until the muscles get back to normal and the water is done retaining. :)

blueridge - Realistically you know you didn't eat 5200 extra calories so that gain isn't a true gain...still frustrating, though! I'm sure if you stick to plan and keep up the awesome exercise, you'll see it come off very soon. :)

bigsexy - nice job with the weight loss this week!!!

Amy - in the end, you know, the scale can say what it wants but if your clothes are falling off, you're definitely losing inches! That (in my opinion) is better than pounds!

Weighed in today - down 3 lbs this week, putting me a pound ahead of schedule! Very exciting...10 lbs to go for my big 50 lb weight loss mark and 11 lbs to go for my "Thanks for Onderland" Thanksgiving goal! :D

SW 215
GW 199 (Onderland!)

10/10 (GW 213) - 213
10/17 (GW 211) - 210
10/24 (GW 209)
10/31 (GW 207)
11/7 (GW 205)
11/14 (GW 203)
11/21 (GW 201)
11/26 (GW 199)

angee - way to go on being ahead of goal! Keep up the great work! What is your secret?

I hit the gym again hard last night, and sticking to my plan and limiting sodium today, so hopeful I will have a good number tomorrow.

My journey starts 10/17/09 at 253 lbs.

SW:253

DATE:GOAL:WI

10/23:248:242
10/30:243
11/6:238
11/13:233
11/20:228
11/27:223

angee - way to go on being ahead of goal! Keep up the great work! What is your secret?

I hit the gym again hard last night, and sticking to my plan and limiting sodium today, so hopeful I will have a good number tomorrow.

No secret really. I just watch my calories and go to the gym literally every day...and I set mini goals for myself constantly that really keep me going.

You sound like you're doing great - I'm sure your number will be fantastic. :)

Saturday

Weight: 211.6 (What?!?)

Challenge: Calories: So not good! (Loosing 3 X’s for that one! That will teach me!)

Exercise: 30/150 min per week

Days left to eat calories back: X X X X X X X

LBS left until goal: 6.6

Sunday

Weight: 215.6 (Yay! :-p)

Challenge: Calories: 1650 or under - CHECK: After work out, ate back calories, minus one X

Exercise: 75/150 min per week

Days left to eat calories back: X X X X X X

LBS left until goal: 10.6

Today’s weight: 213.6. Hopefully I’ll see that 211 again.

It's been a rough weekend! DH had invited company over on Saturday, so instead of working out, I spent my day cleaning, doing laundry, all that fun stuff that I've been putting off... Then yesterday, I did finish D1W3 of C25K but that was all... I was just exhausted and went to bed early instead of working out. I'm feeling much more rested today and am sure I can pull out a good workout. Might take my daughter for a walk today for part of my exercise, then hit some workout videos tonight. On a brighter note, I am down some to 131.8. If I can just get under 130 before vacation November 4th, I will be in heaven!

amy - great job - you will totally ace your below 130 goal!

angee- a big woot for being ahead of schedule - good for you!

xohmimix3 - welcome!

jellofer - congrats on the 10-year low! (or close to it, if I'm exaggerating slightly). That's great progress!

So I just got a new digital scale as a gift from my dad (who's also doing this weight loss thing with me) since he knew mine was a bit wonky. Does anyone else think I'm crazy if I stick with the one I have until I make my 160 mini-goal? I just know the new scale will read higher and I'm just not in the mood for that kind of a set back.

Dancer - I say stick with the scale you have been using since you started the challenge.

Congrats everyone on your good reports.

Well, I am sorry to say that I don't have a loss to report this week. Besides the already-noted poundcake slip-up last Thursday, there was at least one or two days this week when I went well over my calorie intake, and it seems like my sessions at the gym weren't enough to compensate. So this week I am going to work extra hard not to go over 1500 calories a day and plan and write everything down. If I can't lose 1 or 2 pounds this week, it seems less and less likely that I'll make my Thanksgiving goal and I'm not willing to give up!

BUT some great NSVs this week: Monday I had a huge, important meeting and I wore my 'power suit' - my most professional outfit. It's a lane bryant size 16, and when I was at my biggest it was getting to be too tight for sure. I put it on Monday and the white button down shirt is definitely too big for me. The pants fit more loosely in the waist and the thighs. But the jacket is where I felt the biggest difference: it was looser in the shoulders and back which made the arms feel longer. So that is a real change - time for a new power suit!

Plus I saw several people at the meeting that I hadn't seen in several months. One acquaintance looked at me and said "you're melting! You're melting away!" I got a few other comments as well, all of which were positive and encouraging.

So, no good news from the scale this week, but some big NSVs, and planning to work hard these next six days to have good news next Monday! I want to get to 206 so I hit the 30 pound mark! Have a great week everyone!

blueridge - what great compliments!!! It's so great when other people notice, especially after we've had a particularly frustrating week diet-wise. You're doing so great! If it's any consolation, I don't think I'm going to make my Thanksgiving goal, either. My weigh ins have been so erratic, I'm still hanging around 159 no matter what I do. Admittedly I've been slacking on exercise. :p

dancer - I don't think it's crazy to stick with the scale until 160... the scale can do such a job on our attitude and outlook, so I completely understand!

How is everyone else doing? It's snowing and very windy today so I'm headed to the gym to run on the treadmill. Not my favorite but I'll take it over freezing in the wind. I've started adding in weight lifting into my exercise routine and while it has stalled my weight loss a bit, I'm losing inches, so I'm still happy!

blueridge - woohoo for your nsv!

fat pants - even though it's snowing/sleeting here, I'm planning on a lunchtime run outside - wish me luck! Good for you for adding strength training - I keep thinking I should do it too but don't quite have the discipline. I love your new tag line about fierce quads!!

Fat pants - I know it can be discouraging to see the number on the scale not go down when you start weight training, but how awesome is it to be building muscle! The more muscle we have, the healthier we are and the better our bodies function. That is definitely a case where the scale doesn't know best. I think one of the reasons my numbers have been stalling is because I have recommitted myself to my strength routine - someday, I want do do a pull-up, unassisted! So keep up the great work.

Dancer - have a great run!

Wednesday Weigh In: 212
Days under calorie goal: 6/7
Exercise time: 150/150 minutes
Lbs to go until goal: 7

Small update...down to 208! Just 9 more pounds to go for my Thanksgiving goal!

You ladies are all doing so well - VERY inspirational!

I'm back on the wagon again! I came on here after losing my motivation and am hoping this challenge will keep me on track. My current weight is 251 and I would like to be 241 by Thanksgiving.

Have a beautiful day!

Charlie - welcome and congratulations on your loss! You're so close to being closer to 200 than 300 which is a big accomplishment.

Just wanted to share my little victory: last night I went to the gym and I just really killed my work out. 40+ minutes and 4 miles on the elliptical keeping my heart rate between 140-155, followed by running a mile on the treadmill, for a total of 5 miles and almost one hour of aerobic exercise. I ran a mile in 11:28 - my second time in my life of running a mile without stopping. And I'm not even sore today. I have seriously sad memories of being the fat kid in gym class who couldn't run a mile without taking walk breaks, so it feels like a huge success to run a mile without stopping, especially in less than 12 minutes! One longer term fitness goal I have is to run a sub ten minute mile. I know this is VERY humble compared to 'real' runners, but it's all about baby steps, right? After my aerobic I did my strength routine, and then came home and had a nice shower and watched a movie and sipped my herbal tea. Ahhh! Very satisfying to rest after such a hard workout. Planning to take it easy today with just a midafternoon walk and then hit the gym hard again tomorrow!

blueridge, my goal is to also run a sub-10 mile. Right now I am about an 11mm. I know there are runners that can run much, much faster but you know what? It's about YOU, not them. Reminds me of this great quote:

"I focused on reminding myself I was running my race and not trying to keep pace with somebody. It's about your journey—not everybody else's journey."

It's hard to not get caught up in what everybody else is doing, but like you said, just think of how far you have come! I also could not run a mile in gym class. I distinctly remember having to run for 20 minutes in order to pass a portion of gym class and I could not do it so I failed! Can't wait to go back to my 10 year reunion next year and tell my gym teacher that I'm running half and full marathons. :D

Dancer - I have been doing both upper and lower body strength training and while I am swearing for days after doing lunges and squats, it has MAJORLY improved my running. My legs don't get as fatigued as early as they used to. For now I just use a DVD but I ordered ChaLEAN Extreme so I'm hoping to kick it up a notch starting next week.

How did your run go yesterday?? I was wimpy and stuck to the gym but had a good run on the TM (unusual for me).

angee- congrats on the 2 lb loss!! You are very close to goal!

Charlie - welcome! Glad you joined us!

Hi everyone, I am in Maryland. I would love to be part of this Thanksgiving Challenge. I know that I am starting a bit late. I think that it is great and will give added boost to accomplishing my goal of losing weight. I have lost 11pounds this past 3 weeks.

I plan to lose 15 pounds by Thanksgiving

loy69 - welcome! This is a very supportive group - most of us weigh in on Mondays and post our results vs. goal.

blueridge - woohoo on your exercise victories!! The really cool part is that your running speeds automatically get better and better as you lose weight - I bet you'll get a kick out of seeing the improvements. And when you combine that with getting stronger and fitter, it's pretty cool stuff.

fatpants - I think I might need to start with something fairly undemanding that I know I can actually do - like situps and pushups 5x/week. I need to start creating some actual muscles in my no-where-close-to-a-sixpack midsection and would like more toned arms to avoid that underarm jiggle thing (although running has helped with the arms, strangely - did you find that too?) Run yesterday was on the cold side but I don't think it's as windy in central denver as it is in other parts of the front range so it was workable. I do better when it's chilly than when it's super hot. Am waiting for it to warm up today and for the snow to melt off before I head out today.

charlie - welcome - you can do it!

angee - way to go!!

I'm down a pound this week (as of yesterday) and am shooting for another 1.5lbs by Monday which is pretty aggressive for me but I need to get back on my goal schedule after slacking off during my travel weeks if I want to make my 11/1 goal and then the Thanksgiving goal. Thanks for being such great encouragement, all!

Welcome Loy! You've found a good support crew here. What are you plans to reach your goal?

Hi all,

I am joining this one late but I would love to do it.

I am 24 years old. I am just starting my exercise/diet routine again and my stamina sucks *** right now.

I am 178 lbs. I want to lose 10 lbs by Nov 26th i.e thanks giving.

I am going to try to do this by going to the gym 5 times a week for atleast 40 min each day.
I am going to eat healthy, eat within 1300 calories.
I will cut down my desserts and drink lots and lots of water.

Welcome, sweettooth!!

Welcome Sweettooth!!! This is a great place to help find and to be able to share support as we all venture on our journeys.

I have so many things to say to so many of my fellow peeps. unfortunately I just don't know where to start, so here is the beginning.

Thanks to all of the support that I have gotten over the past 2 months. Yes I had the OMG 2 months ago and since then have dropped 32 pounds. No more bread, potatoes, fries or rice or pasta for me. I haven't had a sour patch kid since the 16th of August. Although there have been a few treats along the way it has been this group of people that has helped me the most. I am accountable to myself yes, but I also feel accountable to the peeps. I read the posts and have joined the challenges and have found so much encouragement and information to help me to stay focused. And for this I thank you all so much.

I had a great visit with doctor yesterday. Scale was up alittle at the office, but hello, I had 2 meals and 2 liters of water by the time I was there, plus the workout on tuesday had me tight and sore all over. I got a script from him for 4 weeks of PT so that will be good. My right hip gets so tight with running. Part of it is residual from a previous surgery. I went back to my old therapist. She is awesome. I am hoping to do some true body work with her. Lots to learn. :) So that is all scheduled and ready to start next tuesday. I made my second trip to the gym today. Man, I am really kicking c25k in the *SS!!!!!! I love it. I hit the bike, the elliptical worked on my triceps abbs and inner and outer thighs and then did my c25k workout on the treadmill. I didn't care what anyone thought about the fat girl pounding on the treadmill or how everything still jiggled. All I thought about was me. I pushed myself!!! Tomorrow will be another cardio day with some BL weightloss yoga. Need to reconnect with BOB!!!!

Scale was up to 246.6 today and that is ok. Had some chicken mcnuggest last night. Carb count not too high, but still not the best choice. should have had nothing. Goal for this month 239. It is there in my sight. I want it and need your help to get it!!!!

NSV I told my husband how much I weigh. Nuff said.

Love and light to alll my peeps!!!

jellofer - wtg! keep up the good work!

thanks dancer!!!!

Thanks so much for the welcome, Blueridgegirl. What you said about being closer to the 2s than the 3s is exactly what I keep saying. I have weighed as much as 313 so actually was thrilled to get back into the 2s and now I want to see 249 to be that much closer to the 1s! Here's wishing all luck in making our Thanksgiving goals!

Have a beautiful day.

jellofer - way to go with kicking C25k in the ***! That's awesome! I agree, fat girls can run too! I started out at 200+ and was the fattest one by far running on the treadmill but I plugged away anyway.... belly bouncing and all! :lol:

Just stopping by for my weekly weigh in...

SW: 165
CW: 158 :carrot:
GW: 150

Probably not going to make my goal weight but if I can squeeze out 5 more lbs in the next 5 weeks, I'll be super happy.

On the NSV side, I fit into a size 8 pair of pants I had hanging in my closet from probably 4-5 years ago!!! They aren't tight or anything.. I had to keep checking the tag! :o :D

fatpants - WOOT for size 8! WTG, girl!

Lost 11 lbs wooohooO!

Welcome, sweettooth!!

Thank You danceindenver! :)

Just checking in for my weekly weigh-in report: 206! Down 4 lbs this week...very exciting! 7 more lbs to go for my Thanksgiving/Onederland goal!

SW: 215
CW: 206
GW: 199

10/10 (GW 213): 213
10/17 (GW 211): 210
10/24: (GW 209): 206
10/31: (GW 207):
11/7: (GW 205):
11/14: (GW 203):
11/21: (GW 201):
11/26: (GW 199):

Hi guys,

Congrats on all your losses! Especially you - Angee, wow, looks like at this rate you'll definitely be in onederland by Thanksgiving! You all are doing great.

I am feeling a bit discouraged this week. I've been working really hard, measuring, writing things down and counting calories. I had another hard work out last night at the gym. But my daily weigh-ins haven't been great and I'm afraid I am going stay at 208 this week, for a second week in a row of no loss, or maybe pull a half pound loss at best. It's hard for me to maintain my activity level and eat 1500 calories (balancing carbs and protein) and not be hungry. And when I'm hungry I'm cranky and it's hard to concentrate and it just doesn't feel sustainable to try to do this. Seriously, my initial goal was to be in onederland by labor day and now I'm questioning if I can do it by Thanksgiving. I think I'm going to go on the calorie counter thread and see if they have any advice for me.

But, I'm still plugging away and am planning another workout today and have planned my eating for the day, and I'm committed to following through on that plan. If it weren't for you all, I'd be tempted to throw in the towel, but you encourage me to persevere!