Chicks up for a Challenge - Weight Loss Buddies IV

Well, we are past our 500 posts again, so here's the new one! I will post more later.

Morning, chickies! Slept for a gazillion hours last night - isn't that the best? I swear - at least 10 hrs! I woke up a lot which is always a bit disorienting. When I used to travel internationally a lot, I used to wake up and stare at the ceiling for a while, trying to remember which country I was in as consciousness set in - at least now I just worry about which city/state... Had oatmeal for breakfast and am going to catch up on emails then head down to the gym for a run before my meetings start. Still pms-ing, so annoying - and that's probably why I'm having a harder time than usual sticking to plan. I've looked up all of the restaurants around and am planning on panera soup for lunch and boston market chicken for dinner which will leave me more time to get work done. I'm blithering on about it here to make sure I stick to it :)

Staccie - sorry to hear about the all-nighter - that doesn't sound fun at all. Hope it was productive though and that you can get up for your workout. I'm betting you'll get some killer results come Sunday!

Maddiesmom - thanks for getting us organized with another thread! Boy, we zoomed through the last 500 messages in record time. How are you doing staying on track?

mygrits - I think you've made a wonderful choice of job. As a cubicle filler who sits most of the day when I'm not traveling, I think it would be much much healthier to be active and moving around during the day. My mom is super active and she's still the same weight she was in college. And I love that your choice reflects your commitment to being healthy. Just watch out for those smoothies though - even if they're all natural, they can still pack a major calorie wallop (sp?)! What shoes do you wear to work? If you can wear a really supportive athletic shoe with an added cushioning insole, I'd definitely recommend it. None of those florida-casual flipflops ;) Neesy could probably give you some good advice as nurses probably know all of the tricks.

lindy - did you get in your run after your calorie-challenged start to the day? :) What are you thinking about Mr. 16 lately? Isn't it interesting how focusing on self-improvement gives you some insulation when it comes to men? At least, that's how I feel - working on myself really helped me weather some of the storms in a positive way when my bf was particularly moody in May.

burgundy - I love that you're doing 30ds with your sis long distance - it's great that you can share an experience even when you're far away. When will you see your family? I can't remember - is it over the holidays? If so, you've totally got those 14lbs in the bag - especially if you step up the exercise like you've been doing! Running COMBINED with 30ds should be an awesome combo - skinny and toned! Hope that additional sun comes on Sunday - isn't it funny how motivating it is to add symbols to your ticker? I can't wait to lose one more pound and get another carrot!

Later, all - off to get in my workout...

Well ladies, I think I'm back. I've been doing better eating wise, I've stuck to the Lean Cuisines, Healthy Choice meals, etc for dinner just so I don't overindulge. Lunches have been better as well, had a soup/salad combo down in the cafe yesterday.

I've been going to the gym. I went Sunday night, took Monday off, and went back last night. I was on the treadmill and decided I would see if I could jog for a period of time without my knee hurting and without dying! LOL Turns out, I jogged a 1/2 mile no problem. Last night was my strength training workout, so I did that as a warmup. Then it was rowing 500 meters, then hit the weights for upper body and abs. I'm going back tonight to do a little lower body workout and more cardio. Then I have Thursday off, and working with the trainer on Friday. So, hopefully the scale will go down this weekend. If not, it's my own fault for eating more than usual.

Still debating on the WW at work. I found that since I had to weigh in, it was easier to say no to food, because I had someone right in front of my face weighing me. Now, it's not the case. I don't know if that's why I'm psychologically sabotaging myself last weekend? Regardless, I'm back on track and ready to do this! Onederland here I come!!

How is everyone else doing? I think I got everyone from the old thread (including Hotsplashes, Tiff, and Basics). 500 posts sure went by fast!!

Morning girls;

Maddiesmom- thanks for starting a new thread! I kept telling myself to do it, then would get side tracked. ;) Anyway, about your WW thing, I honestly think you can do it without having to go to the meetings. If you want me to be your personal accountability couach (not just general banter, but ask you forthright), I will definately do it and I wont charge a fee, haha!

Stacie- man, when you tell me what you eat some days, it makes me salivate, sounds like a delicious day! Sorry to hear your nursing a hangover. So, the gym...how did that go over? What time did you end up getting to bed?

Mygrits- glad to see your back on the wagon and were able to log on to the forum. Its always hard starting a new job, so the fact that your staying on track is awesome! We can get you to your goal. I consider you so lucky to work in a health foods store, do you get a discount at all? I know if you work at like Publix or whatever, you dont, but I wasnt sure if it was that same for you. Eating healthy can be expensive at times, so that would be awesome if you did. Hey...how is Bubba been? Did he lose anymore weight but switching it up with his healthy alternatives?

Burgundy- so have you and your sister agreed to hold each other accountable for 30ds? What does she think of the DVD? 13-14 pounds is no sweat-look how far you've come thus far. Lets tighten up on the eating, your exercise routine seems on point!

Dance- I wish I could travel as much as you. Ok, you are going to think I am SUCH A DORK but there is something so hot about guys with a Boston accent. Even if the guy is ugly, haha---its so attractive to me. For some of my GF, they feel this way about like british accents, for me...no, its Boston all the way. Care to bring me back a Boston boy? lol. Yeah, I feel good being independent. Nothing much is going on with 16, he has no potential but Im not going to be rude and completely cut all ties, so Im just going with the paces. I am at nearly half of my goal, so once I get within a 20 pound range, maybe Ill focus on dating, Im in no rush though. Then again---if I stumble on something in the mean time, ya never know.

I wish I could say my eating got better yesterday but it didnt. On a positive note, I weighed myself this morning and am still maintaing from last week. After my horrible morning, I went on to eat sushi, a turkey sandwich with provolone cheese on pumpernickel bread, another pepsi, a candy bar, and some fish...grrrr, it was bad. Anyway, I did get a 3 mile run in though and I woke up feeling great knowing I didnt gain weight from it (at least not yet, lol). Today is a new day and I have my eye on the prize. :)

Ok girls, have to get some work done, Ill check in later. Good luck today!

Hi ladies,

I apologize in advance if I am negative and not as happy today - I am feeling kind of sick :( lightheaded and stuff. Yesterday to left work and had a long nap and then worked until 230AM - I didn't get up to work out this morning:( But I am making myself go tonight - I definitely don't want to fall out of that routine. I am so not drinking anymore for a long time, it's not worth this!!! I'm on day three and still suffering the after effects! But on a positive note, my eating is still exceptional. Today during our meeting there were my favorite chocolates and I never ate them - amazing that I am - officially as tomorrow - 2 weeks clean. This is the best I have ever done.

Dance - awesome about your sleep - you obviously needed it! And like I said before so impressed that you are taking time out to find the right things to eat. So easy to fall off track when travelling. And working out too - you rock!

Vicky - :woohoo: about getting back on track so quick - you are such a motivator!! Your workouts, the eating all of it...amazing!

Lindy - well your eye is on the prize and that's what counts. In your note to Dance you talked about dating when you lose another 20 pounds...can you imagine how much more confidence you are going to have - you will be dating up a storm - people already want to be around you, with even more self confidence they are going to be lining up. Just from what I read on here you are a leader...and people want to be around that. I am glad that you are not settling...because you are going to have plenty of choices!!! And it's going to feel great. I get harassed all the time about dating - a) I don't feel confident enough to, b) I am way too busy trying to balance my workouts/eating and my worklife - throw a boyfriend in there and it will all go to ****...the off booty call though is always a good thing lol.

Well I am in a better mood already by just chatting to you all on here. I always feel so motivated after coming on here. I never would of thought I could find that - I can be myself and not worry about anything.

Back to my lunch - today I am having chicken and rice - kind of boring but because I am not feeling well it's good for my tummy. I think it's just lack of sleep but I have a doctor appointment today anyway so I will bring it up again.

Talk to you all later beautiful chickas!

Ok, Stacie - so let me tell you a little story about me, maybe that will make you feel a little better. I hardly ever drink, so back in January (while me and my husband were still together), my GF took me out for drinks. So they make an announcement over the speaker system that its my bday and the drinks start flowing, I mean...it was like martini city, lol. So naturally, we felt obligated to drink them ALL. The next day was my cousins wedding, which I was scheduled to do the brides hair and makeup. Oh dear....

I got home by 1130, woke up at 3 am and the room is spinning, literally I felt like I was on the tilt a whirl at a theme park, lol. So I stand up to start heading to the room, my husband wakes up to ask if Im ok, yes...of course I am (riiiiggghhhhttt). Well, apparantly the door to the bathroom was about 10 ft. farther then what I recollect, then I started walking, I walked at a left tilt, right into my dresser, lol. I can laugh now, at the time---not so much. Anyway, after that snafu, followed by a day of mild buzz (poor bride, her car eyes, looked more Elviraish than kittyish, lol), then a night of pure well, um...you know, regurgetation, lol...I decided that was the last time I got that wasted. So---that being said, I hope your day gets better. Good job on the chocolate front. I for one am SO INCREDIBLY PROUD OF YOU! You are doing amazing this time around, cant wait to see you get into your skinny girl outfit!

Not too much to report on my end. I have been having some horrible cravings for Pepsi lately, I dont know what the heck is up with that, I did so well for months with not liking or wanting it, but...I just have to stay focused. They say having a can of pop is worst than a candy bar...grrr, go figure. Ok, well...I have a busy afternoon ahead of me, so no run tonight. Gabriella has a dentist appt. at 515, soccer at 545-7, then she'll have to take her bath, then hw, then bed, fun...fun. Haha.

Hey girls - another check in from Boston. Doing well on food so far - I have a weird fascination with the french onion soup at panera (minus the odd tasting crouton, that is). Anyone else addicted?

Lindy - the Boston guys are ALL yours, that's for sure. Oddly, it's an accent that I don't find attractive at all. Much prefer a British accent, or even a Brooklyn one ;) Different strokes and all that, right? So glad we don't all want the exact same ones, what a mess that would be... So how's the pepsi situation going? Do you like diet at all? I started drinking diet in high school and now sugar sodas really taste awful - it's not the taste so much as the sugar feeling on my teeth. Anyway - just curious if you could fend off the craving with a diet pepsi.

staccie - :bravo: for two clean weeks in a row! That's great! Hope the lightheadedness passes - I hate that feeling.

maddiesmom - big giant woohoo on the half mile run! Girl, you'll be addicted before you know it!! Isn't it cool to see the new things your body can do as you get lighter?

I did a little shopping while out here as they have more business-y suit options than in super casual Denver and it's so great to be able to be picky and not just buy stuff because it sort of fits and covers me up. Three new jackets to combine with my three new pairs of pants from the Limited. That should get me through till around Christmas time if I'm judging the sizes right.

My poor bf has the flu this week - it sucks not to be home to bring him chicken soup and stuff. Will have to make it up to him this weekend.

Hope everyone's doing well...

Dance- I'm badly addicted to french onion soup. It's my nemesis. It's been a while... ok I have to stop thinking about it. haha

Lindy- That is one thing I cannot give up.. yet. I need my diet coke. That is my one thing I let myself have. I feel like I'm good with everything else. Eventually I will try to wean myself off of it. But.. Oh it's so good.


So.. I went out to lunch with my dad today. I got a grilled chicken salad with fat free ranch and no cheese! I'm so proud! Oh. by the way.. My dad has lost almost 150lbs so far since he had the lap band in february. It's crazy! So.. we talk about weight loss and how much we're losing. The first thing he said when he saw me.. William is gonna freak out when he sees you. That made me feel really good. Oh and BIG NEWS! I got some knee high boots from DSW!!!!!! YAY! I actually found some that would fit my calves! This is a first ever girls. WOW it feels good to finally be able to wear something I want.. instead of just wearing something because it fits. YAY!

TTYL!

Maddiesmom-Thanks for starting a new thread. We're a talkative bunch. I'm glad=)

Neesy - that's one heck of an NSV! woohoo for sexy boots! Have you guys seen the movie "sexy boots", btw? Kind of funny and sweet...

Dance-sometimes you just need to sleep. Sounds like you had a good time shopping. I am waiting to buy new clothes, but a lot of mine that were too small are fitting now. i will see my family around christmas, so I am excited to lose as much as possible by then.

Maddiesmom-good to hear you are back on track. Yay for your half mile jog. I am gonna do for a walk/run with the dogs later. We can keep you accountable if you dont want to keep going with WW, maybe take Lindy up on her offer.

Lindy-yes we are keeping each other accountable with 30ds. Everyday when we finish it we text to let each other know. Damn pepsi, I switched to diet too and you get used to it.

Staccie-2 weeks is a long time to be on track, keep going, you are doing great.

Neesy-that is great you found your boots. You should put some before and after pics up of your dad. Thats crazy, 150!!!

Ok I have been wanting a doctors scale. So I went to a thrift store today and they had one. The only thing is, it is weighing me 5 lbs less. Neesy, do you know if they are more accurate ?? or should I just keep weighing on my digital one. It was only 8 bucks so I am not out a lot of money. I have to get off here and do 30ds. We were out and about early today so didnt get it in earlier. My sister already texted that she did it today before she went to work.

I will check in later tonight

burgundy - do you have any weight plates or say, a full container of something that you know how much it weighs (like a heavy bag of flour)? You can test the scale against something with a known weight to see if it's skewed. I'm the queen of this since my scale was acting wonky!

I put a 5 lb weight on it and it is accurate. So what would you girls do. If I weigh 207 like the scale says, then my starting weight would be 231. I am unsure of what to go by now. Its just hard to get a read off of it, it has a bubble in the center like a level. I am thinking it may be best to stick with my digital. Comments??

I dont know if anyone remembers, but when I first started this journey in January I was using my dial scale and I thought my starting weight was 230, but then I switched to my digital after I got a battery and it was 236, so I changed my ticker. I was hoping this new scale and my digital would weigh around the same. I think it is an older model, its a health o meter 230pb. I cant find a pic of it online. I will keep looking or take a pic of it later.

Hi Ladies......

Dance this is Florida to Boston......LOL.....Thank-you for the congratulations and positive thoughts for my work. The smoothies are delicious and what makes me happy is they are made from 'fresh' fruit, not the syrups that most places use (which are loaded with sugar). I usually only have a small, and use it as a meal replacement. They use yogurt, fresh fruit or veggies - depending what you are having. Oh, Panera is one of my favorite places, however be watchful of the sodium in their foods as it can be quite high.

Lindy you sound like you are doing so great with self-confidence with your weightloss, workouts and men........oh the men........LOL. Boston huh? I love the Australian accents - just makes me melt......lol. As far as my work, yes we get 35% off of all supplements, herbs, proteins etc... On the regular organic and natural foods it is 20%. So, that I am enjoying. I have already shopped alittle for lotions, makeup, some supplements for my husband and few other things...LOL. Anyway, it was nice to get a paycheck for a change. It is kindof weird though going from being the owner/boss to an employee, but it will be fine.

Maddiesmom, I am proud of your commitment. I can relate to going back to work, husband looking and just trying to balance life when it changes so quickly. You are doing fantastic - keep it up! What happened to the hunky trainer????? Mr. Hot.

Neesy, gosh congratulations all your success and your Dads. That is just awesome. Isn't it fun and kindof funny with our calves and feet lose weight? LOL.......I bet your boots are adorable and look great on you! I wish I could wear boots all year long - I love them. Unfortunately in Florida it lasts about 3 months.....;-(

Burgund - Neesy would know more than me, but I can tell you my mom owns one and has for years. On her's you can re-adjust the balance if needed too. I trust hers over my digital anyday. Plus my digital really does some weird reading. If I move it to another area of floor in the house, I get a totally different reading........LOL

Burgundy - I'm no good at these decisions - that's why I still have my old clunker. Another option might be to have someone else try the scale for you and tell you if it seems right to them. I definitely prefer scales that think I'm thinner rather than heavier though ;) don't we all?

Neesy - forgot to mention earlier re: french onion soup. The one at panera with crouton and cheese is only 250 cal for a full bowl which isn't too bad in my book. Loaded with sodium so I'll be drinking lots of water tonight. Not sure if there's a panera's near you though.

I'm at 1356 cals so far today (which is great compared to my wild and crazy calorie cycling/spiraling lately) and bought a jar of pickles in case I get the salty crunchy PMS cravings. I take the pill back to back so I only have to deal with this every three months or so but what a colossal pain!

I am losing it, I forgot to write about my day. Of course being on here I didn't work today.......can you tell? ;-) Anyway today was good, except my husband cooked dinner, and it was delicous but probably somewhat fattening. I only had one helping, so hopefully all will be alright. I was going to exercise until I almost got knocked-out by my dog, so after that I was trying to keep from having a black eye. However, I have one anyway.....LOL...Gosh what will they think at work????? My German Shephard was excited after his bath running in the house, I leaned over to wipe the floor and we butted heads. A 100lb Shephard a full speed running into my head......ouch. So my exercise was out. I am thinking I may try to get up early and go for a walk, then go to work. This is the plan for tomorrow, so hopefully I will do it.

Oh, someone, I think Lindy, asked how my husband was doing. He is fine, somewhat depressed about no work, and has been a little lost with doing his own eating (trying to eat healthy and low sodium), but the last few days have been better. I wish he could find work, as I know he feels he isn't providing and hates that I had to go back to work. He wants to start another business (restaurant), so is working on that some also. Time will tell. Thank you for asking though ;-)

Ok, my work week starts up tomorrow 39 hours in 4 days, so I will try to get on here early in the morning (maybe) and if not at night.

Bye for now.

mygrits - very cool about the discounts! How was work today? Or was it your day off? Woohoo on the paycheck!

mygrits - oops - looks like we crossed posts. Yikes about the black eye - good luck with the concealer tomorrow...

Dance-Only 250cal! OMG! I am definitely making a trip to panera bread today. That is sooooo great to know. Panera bread is only 10 minutes from my house. I will be making frequent visits now. haha. Thanks!

LOL.........Oh my gosh I DO have a black eye and a bit swollen..........LOL.....I have to laugh, but am trying like heck to cover it for work. Can you even imagine Retail Health Store and a women with a black eye working???? Ok, pray the owner doesn't notice and 'think' something.

Wanted to peek in here before leaving (woke up early so I could), but it is quiet. Neesy what is 250 cal at Panera Bread? I have steered clear of that because I LOVE Panera Bread but heard the sodium was high. Let me know!

Well I was down 1.6 pounds this morning, so I hope I can stay on this trek and catch up with everyone. Hope all of you have an awesome, fun, eventful day!

mygrits - neesy was reacting to my telling her that the yummy french onion soup at panera (while majorly high in sodium) isn't that loaded with calories. Too funny/sad about the black eye - hope it doesn't hurt too much. Your poor husband - hope people don't think he's been treating you badly! And congrats on the loss - you're doing great!!

The usual travel insomnia hit me last night so I'm seriously bleary-eyed today. Luckily I'm almost done with this trip - just a few more site visits today and I should have some down time this afternoon (maybe sneak in a walk or run on the treadmill then) and I head home tomorrow first thing.

Sandy: Sorry about the eye! The same thing happens to me. I tend to bruise easily and Madeline treats me like a jungle gym, so I have bruises all over my arms and legs. Good thing I wear suits to work or people would start to wonder!

Sandy, to answer your question, things are going well with Hott trainer. He's been working me really hard and now that I wear my heart rate monitor (he figured out how it works), he really gives me a workout. I was doing sumo squats last week with a 25 pound weight for 2 minutes straight as part of my circuit. That really got my heartrate up! He's a really nice guy and really gives me a great workout.

I seriously love Panera bread as well, I usually have their low fat chicken noodle soup, but have it with 1/2 a sandwich, so I'm not sure how that is as far as healthy. Oh well, I'll steer clear, just in case.

Well, I kicked my own butt at the gym last night. (Hott trainer is Friday at 5, right after work...ugh). I warmed up by walking 1/4 mile, then jogged 3/4 of a mile (yea me, I haven't done that since high school!). Then it was 2.25 miles on the elliptical machine, then it was 1000 meters rowing. My hair was literally soaked when I left.

Anyways, hope everyone else is having a great day! Check in later.

Hey girls--

Ok, let me do the good with the bad. Bad news first...I have been out of control with Pepsi and Cheez Its for 3 days now. Each day, I am consuming 250 calories in Pepsi and 210 calories in Cheez Its, including today! AND...its definately showing on the scale. :( I am up 2 pounds and as much as I would like to believe this is water weight, I really do think its true to size, so to speak. Ill get focused tomorrow. I have decided that I am getting this stuff from the snack machine so to help me through it, I am going to leave my wallet at home tomorrow, so Im not tempted and use some good ole fashion will power, ****, Ive had a enough thus far, no reason to give up now. Ok...good news. I went bargain shopping and bought a "lot" of Hollister, Abercrombie and Fitch and Aeropostale clothes for my vacation. This is the style I always loved but could never pull off. Well, I decided to be overzealous and buy size 10's and M, now...I am wearing 10's already but in skinny clothing world like those brands, a 10 is really like a 7/8, well...guess what?! THEY FIT!!! All of them! And I look hot! Haha. Im going to take tons of pics on the cruise and post them. Im sooooo excited.

Now, back to you all....lol

Neesy- knee high boots---awesome!!! With my moment of glory, you can see that I can totally relate, Im so happy for you. Are these possible the boots that you will wear to see your hubby? PS--thanks for sharing your dads weight loss, I was wondering how he was doing. That is fantastic news. Im so excited for the both of you. :)

Mygrits - awesome on the discount front, not so awesome on the black eye story. :( That happened to me once, it was quite embarassing. I was actually sleep walking and walked right into a wall fixture...go figure. Anyway, its funny thinking back on it, but at the time, yeah...a lot of people do speculate. What made it even worst was 3 weeks later, John, my husband got a black eye from playing football and we both worked in the same place, so I can only imagine what everyone was thinking and saying, lol. Im glad to hear Bubba is eating healthier. And although its hard to tell him this, there is nothing to be ashamed of when it comes to this job market, I mean...everyone is feeling it, and its not indicative of him as a provider. A big hug goes out to him, as I do understand. How is Alina doing these days, you know...being a new wife and all? :)

Dance- you ropped it back in with your calories yesterday, good job. In your travels, are you able to do any gym time or is it just not possible? As far as Diet Pepsi goes, no...yuck, I cannot do any diet soda, the only one I can tolerate is diet cream soda or diet dr. pepper and neither of those are much better. In reality, no soda is the best choice, I just need to get a grip.

Burgundy - I would go with the doctor scale. If the weight was measured accurately, then thats the most accurate scale. Furthermore, I dont think it really matters too much, as long as you stick with one scale for consistanty purposes and use that as a measuring tool. Have you...or for anyone else for that matter...taken measurements? I never thought about doing this, but I think for the tail end of my weight loss, I should. Hmmm...maybe after my vacation I will.

Ok, got to get back to work, Ill catch up later.

Dance-you did good calorie wise yesterday. I am glad there is no panera bread around here, I think I would be in trouble. Maybe you will get that down time tonight.

Sandy-the discount will help out when you want to splurge and treat yourself. Hope your black eye doesnt hang around long. Congrats on being down 1.6 lbs.

Maddiesmom-a mile on the treadmill and jogging most, way to go. I need to get out for a run later. The doggies will thank me.

Lindy-I think leaving the wallet will help, then you have no way to get the snacks. Do you have extra change at your desk?? If you do, take it home too. You can get those 2 lbs off quick when you get back to plan. Yay for all the clothes fitting you.

So I have decided to stick with my digital scale for now. I got on the medical scale and it said I was 201 today, that is down 6 lbs from yesterday according to it. So it has to be wrong. Even if my starting weight was 231 or 236 I have still lost 24 lbs. Got day 3 of 30ds done. My sister had thought about taking weekends off, but have decided to keep going, 7 days a week. Its only 20 minutes, so we can do it.

Gotta go pay some bills. Have a great day everyone.

Oh Lindy to answer your question. I didnt take my measurements at the beginning of this. The last time I took them was a few years ago when me and my twin sister were losing weight together. I still have those written in a notebook. I should take them again and compare to those measurements.

GRRRR....today has turned into a god awful day, I need someone to slap the skinny back in me. Here is my walk of shame:

Bowl of frosted mini wheats with milk: 450 calories
big bottle of Pepsi: 250 calories
Cheez Its: 210 calories
Starburst: 100 calories
Jelly beans: 100 calories
Footlong Sub: 600 calories

Thats 1700 calories already and I havent even had an afternoon snack or dinner! Grrr...ok, so I might do a peach around 3 p.m. and some egg whites and turkey bacon for dinner, that will at least put me at 1900. I also plan on incorporating a 3 mile jog tonight because frankly, this whole day has been full of pure crap and worst yet...I dont feel full. :(

Sorry I had to go off on my tangeant. Constructive borderline mean criticism would be much appreciated at this time, as that is the only way I usually get with the program. Hmpf...

Lets add an Almond Joy at 220, for a grand total of 1920. GGGRRRREEEAAATTT!

I know Im doing bad, yet I continue on my downward spiral....sigh....

Add bag of Cheez Its 210
Add a bag of CHeetos 250

:(

Today is a sad, sad day, I dont know whats wrong with me.

Lindy: Here is your intervention....STEP AWAY FROM THE SNACK FOOD!! What is going on? Is there additional stress, etc. at work that is causing you to grab? Just thinking there could be an emotional component to this. You know what you need to do SO DO IT!! Even though the food is good at the time, the guilt, etc you feel from eating it is going to make you feel worse. I know how strong you are, so I know you can get back on plan. Work out tonight and back on that wagon tomorrow! If not, I'll be on a plane to Florida (or send Mygrits since she's closer...LOL) to give you a kick in the keister! :)

Ok, now that my alter-ego is gone...

As for me, I'm doing ok. I had a sweet and salty bar for breakfast with water (gave up on juice, too many calories, and if I do the WW points, 1 cup is 3 points!). Lunch is a healthy choice meal with a diet dr. pepper and I'm having a small cup of turkey chili. I actually turned down food at the mall and thought that it wasn't worth eating. I got in my car and came back to work and had my frozen meal. It's turkey burgers tonight for dinner (yum!). Tonight is day off from the gym, so I will be home with my medicine ball.

I figured, I got to the gym 4-5 times per week, so on my off days, I can do crunches with my medicine ball and do a little strength training at home. I have the trainer tomorrow night, so we'll see if I am too sore to work out on Saturday. I'm finding that I'm not as sore as I used to be when I leave the gym which is a great feeling. I also bought a new suit at the mall today (size 18, down from a tight 22!), so I'm feeling good.

Hope everyone else is doing well!

Hi ladies.

:(

Well I left work yesterday and I had a few halloween sized mm candies - three to be exact - no four (I have to be honest). I felt so crappy, lightheaded, headachy and scratch, hiss, howl miserable. I ate a stir-fry that was probably at least 1000 calories and then a bag of animal crackers, later a lot of grapes. Now I was happy that I didn't give in to a coke zero, a big bag of chips and chocolate bars but I am still disappointed in my choices. Being tired, grouchy and sick seems to strip my pride and motivation. But, I try to look at the positive side of everything if I can and I could have done worse. But I am feeling better today (I got 10 hours of sleep) and I cooked chicken last night and made myself good meals today. But still sad that I messed up and haven't gone to the gym in four days. I needed sleep and I knew it, but I promised myself that I am back hauling arse tomorrow. As for drinking, well I am sure that I shouldn't do that anymore. I was reading through my journal last night and I noticed that I got sick like this last time too. So that does that. Losing almost four days for a few hours of fun (and I am fun enough without alcohol) is NOT WORTH IT!!!!

Does anyone know how I can see the posts while writing this, I think I lost some - I'm in advanced mode? Sorry if I missed someone.

Burgandy - I echo Dance's comments about the scale - if the calibration is off, it's an issue. I got so frustrated with scales that I just use the same on everyday at the gym - there is one in the washroom and another one upstairs and I do both to make sure it's right and they are exact. But the othe option is always trying on an outfit that is too small every week :)

Dance - pickles - oh yum - I have not had pickles forever - I think I might just have to get some of those this weekend!!!

Mygrits - oh no about the black eye - no one is going to mess with you - I guess you could always wear heavier make-up on the other eye, but maybe not - your job isn't in a bar :) :woohoo: about the weight loss!!! That is so awesome you are doing that with getting all set in with a new job and stuff. Hope you gave yourself a high five. Me - I give myself a high five on my arse - hoping that it's smaller and more firm whenever I do it lol :)

Maddiesmom - love the sound of your workouts - they make me salivate - and my heart do a bit of a jump. I so have to get back to the gym - tonight even if it's just for a quick cardio session!

Lindy - sorry to hear about your cravings!!! Leaving the wallet at home is a great idea - I have used that in the past and it's worked for me everytime. And :celebrate: the clothes - that is so awesome and I am so happy for you!!! I can't wait to see pictures. You need be be proud of yourself. And just think everytime you want a pepsi or those cheese things about not being able to shop there anymore!!! Hopefully that will help. I just read your post about today - STOP IT WOMAN!!! No food is worth how awesome it feels to look and feel HAWT. Chew some gum, load yourself up on water and brush your teeth - maybe some and/or all of those will help. I also thinking writing it out for you and us to see should help. You've come so far, now is the time to get back on the wagon and keep being healthy!!! Look at a picture of your old self - it's eating like that which will make you that way again. You've come soooo far - don't let it get you!!!

KILL THE CRAVING BOOGEYMAN :ghost:

Lindy - you know you don't want a muffin top on your cruise in those skinny new clothes so *PUT DOWN THE SNACK FOOD* and back away slowly! You are an amazing study in contrasts - so crazy disciplined as to give up food altogether for over a week (was it two? three?) but then occasionally vulnerable to the siren call of the vending machine. Totally understand if you're hungry - none of us thinks you should starve but you definitely have a pattern that when you start eating some junk food, you eat some more and some more after that since it's not nutritionally rich and filling in the high fiber, high protein way that keeps you full and satisfied. Frito-lay is so not a charity - they are making products that you will want to eat the whole bag of so that you will buy more and they'll make more money. If you could just it a few and walk away, they wouldn't have much of a business, right? Congrats on the amazingly tiny sizes - I bet you'll look smokin' on the cruise! Can't wait to see pics!

Doing okay foodwise so far today (oatmeal, tuna sandwich, carrots, grapes, raspberries and am planning on chicken and veggies for dinner). Will write more later...

I took my dogs to get fixed today. They look so tired and sad right now.. with there big plastic collars on.. haha. It's cute. Oh.. so I went out to this bar last night with my dad..trivia night. HAHA. It was goofy.. but good to spend time with my dad. Though I did have a couple light beers. That was the first time I drank in probably over a year. Not worth it! I would rather have a nice meal. Anyway, I'm doing good today. Just stickin to my plan. I haven't heard from the hubby in a while. But only 4wks to go! YAY! I would love to be 184. That would put me at 30lbs exactly since he left. I can do it. Just no more alcohol and I'm gonna kick my butt in overdrive. I've been slacking at the gym. I know I could lose more if I work out regularly. Gotta get back on the ball. Talk to you guys later!

Lindy- Don't do it! I like the idea of not taking money with you to work. You are usually so planned out! Don't let this get to you. You at least recognize it. Now. STOP! I completely agree with Dance. You want to look HOT for the cruise! You are almost there! Don't give up now girly!

Staccie- You too girl! You do so well once you are motivated. What is your motivation to lose weight? I know you want to see that 1! You are so close! Don't give up!

Neesy - it sounds like you and your dad have a great relationship - I always like hearing about it when you guys spend time together - such a nice thing! And shoot high! You're going like gangbusters - I know you can do it!

staccie - four days of sick for a few hours of buzzed really does not sound like a good equation. I really like having a glass of red wine 2-3 times/week but I usually stop at a glass (maybe 2 on a Saturday) but no way would I do it if it made me ill. Poor thing! Glad you caught up on sleep though and we're going to hold you to your promise to hit the gym tomorrow. I'm not going to workout tonight - too much to do - but am going to go for a run (at least an hour) when I get home tomorrow afternoon. Will you be my virtual workout buddy tomorrow? Can we hold each other to it?

maddiesmom - congrats on the skinny 18s! and the long distance jog! You'll be marathoning in no time ;) You must be feeling great. Your calorie count looks awfully low just eyeballing it - do you know what the numbers add up to by chance?

lindy - yep - there are fitness centers at all of the hotels, some way better than others but they almost always have at least one treadmill. I always run outside the day I leave and the day I come back (mon and fri) and once while traveling (usually weds) and often use my two rest days for the week for the other days since I can't always fit in more than that with my site visits. I spend most of the day walking around though so at least I'm moving on. The planning of food for the day is the trickiest part since sometimes meals don't turn out so well and your snacking options can be limited to junk food unless you're super organized, and I don't always do a perfect job.

Psyched to be headed home tomorrow - my cat will be so glad to have company, poor thing. Looks like I'll be making chicken soup for my sick bf tomorrow night...

Hello Chicks,

This will have to be quick, as I need to get to bed - unreal, I used to be a nightowl! Anyway I don't have a day off until NEXT Wednesday. Truly sucks, but hey I appreciate the work at the same time.

Today was funny with the black eye, and I told them what happened with the dog, but who knows what they are really thinking. I mean Bubba is 6'3, big and strong..........LOLOLOL......funny. Anyway I didn't eat much today at all until I got home. My calories are probably around......1300 or 1400. I really don't know, but that is probably close. No workout this morning, as I just couldn't bring myself to doing it knowing I would be on my feet and walking here and there for 9 hours......ugh. Tomorrow is another day.

Lindy - Congrates on the HOT, Designer clothes. I know you will look sheek and be turning my heads onboard ship. Sorry your cravings have taken over, but I know you will be back on healthy foods fast. Everyone deserves a break with carbs and sugars....;-)

Dance - Glad you will be home soon, as I know your cat has missed you. Do you travel every week? Sounds like you have a great hotel routine down with workouts. Everytime I use a hotel gym, and yes there is only one treadmill, someone is ALWAYS using it. Really peeves me too..lol ;-(

Neesy - I know the time with your Dad is precious. My father and I have always been close. He is now 87 and diabetes has really gotten the better of him with his energy, and mind. I cherish the years we have had and it is sooooo difficult seeing him age. Enjoy every second with you Dad, as I know you do.

Well, off to bed, I have to stay on schedule or I will majorly regret it tomorrow. Thank you ladies for being so awesome........oh and Maddiesmom, woo hoo with Mr Hott! I bet you do burn alot of calories (just looking at him). ;-)

Nite.

Lindy-knock that sh** off. You do not want your weight to go in the other direction, you want it to keep going down. You did not do that cleanse for this to be the outcome. Think of your cruise, you want to look smokin in those clothes you just bought. Maybe you should put them somewhere you can see them as a daily reminder that you still want to fit in them next month. Now join us on the wagon again and leave the junk food alone.

Maddiesmom-I have been sticking with you and having healthy choice meals once a day. They are actually pretty good. Your workouts are still on point. I have tightened up with my workouts and food.

Staccie-glad your food is better today than yesterday. Now you have to eat clean again to get back on track. And get back to that gym girlie. I dont drink at all and now I am glad after hearing some of the stories you girls have shared.

Neesy-wow only 4 weeks. Glad you had fun with your dad. 12lbs you can do, step it up and dont slack at the gym.

Dance-its always nice to go on a trip but really nice to go home. Hope your bf feels better after you take him soup.

Sandy-Maybe everyone believed you about your black eye. After reading the comment to you from Bubba on FB, I know he wouldnt do that to you. Have a good day at work.

I had a good day. Got up had toast with weight watchers cream cheese(220 cals) did 30 day shred, went to town to pay some bills, got lunch chicken and broccoli(280 cals) and rice(240, shouldnt have eaten it), cleaned the kitchen, cut up veggies for dinner tomorrow. Had a snack(100 cals) Took the dogs to the beach and we ran and ran and walked some too. Came home had a healthy choice for dinner(280 cals) and a York peppermint stick for dessert(100 cals). Now relaxing in bed. Have to get up tomorrow and go find some dog food. The place I get it ordered the wrong kind. The last time I got it from them, they had to order it when they thought they had some in. Hopefully I can find it tomorrow. So I will be doing my 30ds in the evening. I love getting it done in the earlier hours of the day and not waiting til later, but I will still do it.

Hope Tiff, Basics, AJ and Hotsplashes are doing good.

Heading off to the airport - TGIF!

Burgundy - your comment to Lindy made me laugh out loud which I'm sure people sleeping in the next hotel room over really appreciated. ;)

mygrits - good job on eating yesterday!

Made it through last night without munchies city so quite happy about that. What's everyone up to this weekend?

Burgund thank you. Bubba is a sweetheart even though his career choice for years as a Seal and then with the Drug Squad didn't reflect the same....LOL... Unfortunately the ladies at work have never met him, so they really don't know us. In time that will change. You sound like you are 'right on' with your weightloss and I am still trying to catch up! Have an awesome day and workout ;-)

Lindy - Burgund is right! Remember the '****' from the cleanse you were doing? Weren't you doing that to get all the crap (toxins, chemicals) out of your body? Well your putting them right back in! Why? Stop it, because it will catch up to you! xoxoxoxo Oh and thank you for asking about Alina, she is doing great, just really working alot. She is suppose to move into a new home outside base next month, so she is excited about that.

Ok, I got up extra early to say hello before work. I weighed and am down another pound......Woo Hoo! :-) Ok, I will check in tonight and I hope all of you have a great day. Dance thanks for the congrates!

Hi ladies,

Well it's Friday - woo hoo! Dance - I am virtually going to the gym with you tonight, I decided to go tonight because I have no plans and I get can a real good workout in without being rushed. I can't ever take more than one day off in a row otherwise it's too easy to make excuses to skip the next day. Last night i was going to go, I had my clothes on (ya know I usually walk naked down the street-eewww) lol - but I didn't. And I can tell that I've been missing it because I'm kind of lethargic.

Dance - hope you are having a safe flight home!!! I don't have many plans this weekend actually - I do have some work to get done but I will space that over Sat and Sun - so basically the gym, a movie on Saturday and that is it. I am ok with that as I am heading into a crazy busy week.

Lindy - I hope you are not drowning yourself in junk food...and got right back on the skinny wagon...I have faith in you though!!!!

Burgandy - good day yesterday tracking it all - good luck on the pooch food - we will be sweating it together tonight...virtually anyway!

Mygrits - you are sounding so much better...and down another pound - that's awesome!!! All of the extra walking and calories you are burning throughout the day are doing you good! Has your eye started to turn yellowish yet? That's my most unfavorite part of a black eye. I'm a major klutz so I get them often :)

Well this is probably the last time I will log on today until this evening. Have a super busy day at work with my boss coming back and then off to the gym. I PROMISE you all that I will go tonight - I need to be accountable!!!

PS - my food continued to be pretty good yesterday, I did allow myself two Halloween packs of mm - and I'm not allowing myself anymore - it just leads to slowly getting back to where I was so I'm back to hand slapping for bad choices again. My personality is all or nothing it seems so I just get the good stuff!! Who needs mm and toxins in their body!!!! NOT US!

KILL THE CRAVING BOOGEYMAN!!! :badbat:

Hey girls...I feel fat and lethargic today, like pure crap and I hopped on the scale and it said 172! That binge was so not worth it. I need to remember how I feel today, Im even mildly depressed. On a good note, at least Im back on the wagon today and dont want to look at another chip, cake...whatever for a while, I seriously havent felt this crappy in a LOOONNNNGGGG time. Anyway, thanks for the intervention, I think it was little too late but at least Im back on track today.

I will comment later on everyone else, sorry, Im just not feeling great today.

Dance-just doing what Lindy would do for any of us. Are you back home now?

Sandy-you are gonna catch me, down to 214 now??

Staccie-throw them mms out and get to the gym. You will feel so good when you do.

Lindy-sorry you are feeling bad today. BUT I really dont think you ate 21000 calories to have really gained 6 lbs. Some of it has to be sodium and water. You are back on track today so you have your head in the right place now.

Found my doggy food, yay!! Now they dont have to eat crap for a week. Did day 4 30ds. Going for a walk later with a friend. Boring day here otherwise. I have to keep the boys tomorrow, so I wont be on later, spending the night over there instead of getting up at 4 in the morning. Have a fun Saturday everyone.

Howdy, chicas!

Staccie - thanks for the workout buddy support - I'm still planning to run later today so I'm just a little behind you timing-wise. It's one of those gorgeous crisp and cool fall days so I'm looking forward to it.

Lindy - glad you're back on the wagon!

mygrits - :bravo: on the additional pound loss - girl, you are cranking!

Okay, I need to exercise Sat and Sun this week to make up for taking my rest days while traveling. Anyone else in? I could use some exercise buddies!!

Happy Friday...

Burgundy - just saw your post - yep, I'm home and pretty happy about it! woohoo on getting in your workout!

My sleep schedule is so off right now. Which hasn't affected my diet luckilly.. but I've been staying up all night and sleeping most of the daytime. which makes me feel soo lazy. I have to be at work at 7am.. hopefully I'll be able to go back to sleep. I just woke up a couple hours ago! OMG!

Dance- I wish I could go exercise with you. I'm getting my exercise in at work.. all weekend. haha

Rayne- I'm really thinking about getting 30ds. Especially since I hate driving to the gym lately. You like it?

Hi ladies,

Wow, I've had a steaming busy day but thought I needed to take a brief break. It's real quiet in our pod on Friday!!! Looking forward to working out - well not really but I keep telling myself that.

Dance - I will be your workout buddy this weekend, I have to work out both days because of the effects of the alcohol binge on Monday. And they won't be workouts for the weak limbed...I'm going to crank it hard!!! I am thinking about doing the gruelling hike up 2,800 stairs on Sunday to punish myself too!! Glad you are home and the crisp, fall day sounds awesome. It's actually about 25 above here, more like summer but I think the rain is coming soon....ewww!

Burgandy - I never cheated today! Woo hah - well it isn't over but I am sure I can hold out. Ok, I had a gummie thing but that was it. No chocolate and it's been sitting right behind me all day! Enjoy your day tomorrow!

Neesy - adjusting to that time is tough...and you're right I imagine you do quite a few laps at your job!!! I am curious about this DVD too now....

Lindy - sorry to hear you are feeling poopy today. It's called a food hangover!! But you sound like you are on track and I bet when that sodium finds it way out of your body you will see a pound or both drop off. Just eat clean and drink a ton of water. Telling you the things that you already know!

Well I am hopeful that I lost some pounds this week. I should have, even without much exercise. I have to do better next week - no drinking!!!! It totally makes me go off course!!!

Hope everyone has a good Friday night!! Will be thinking of you as I am working the inches off my junker tonight :)

Neesy - how are the doggies?

Staccie - ok, the weekend exercise challenge is so on! ;) I have a feeling you're going to kick my *arse* though!

Dance-I will be doing 30ds this weekend and hopefully getting a walk or run in if I dont have to work too late. Gotta work the next 4 days.

Neesy-I like 30ds, its only about 20 minutes, but you are moving the entire time. Plus I walk and run and hardly sit down during the day. I recommend it.

Staccie-bravo for not cheating today. Did you have a good workout?

I thought I would take a minute to check in before I leave. Got a fun day planned tomorrow, the 6 yr old has a soccer game in the morning, then off to a big flea market to find some good bargains, my SIL will probably want to go for pizza, I will control myself. Then bring the boys home, come home for a few hours and then back to their house to do it all over again Sunday. Gotta think of something fun to do on Sun and Mon. I will have them tuesday too, but not until bedtime so dont have to think of anything for then. I will just get a good movie and relax. Its nice to get paid to watch a movie. I need to get up and pack an overnight bag. Have a great night ladies.

Hi Chicks,

Thanks for all the nice woo hoo's on my weightloss. It does feel good to know what I am doing is working, and I have not desire to binge on anything. I guess the natural smoothies (no syrups & crap) are helping that. Oh, and my black eye soooo much worse. It ran, meaning with the blood flow and it is now all the way around my eye with red and black colors. No Staccie no yellow yet, but yuck that will suck when it looks like that. I am putting so mucy makeup on it to hide it. The swelling isn't too bad, so you have to really look to notice it......LOL.

Lindy, sorry about the weight gain, but atleast your back on track. We all have 'those' days, but it is behind you and on FB I am happy to see today is all about YOU!

Dance and Staccie, wow it sounds like the workout competition is on! HOOYAH! I miss working out, but like Neesy it is walk, walk, walk and sometimes run at work.

Burgund, I am trying to get you, but if you lose this week you will once again be the front runner! Today was 214.4, so I still have 1.4 to catch up to your last week weigh-in. Hopefully by tomorrows weigh-in I will be down more ;-)

Maddiesmom, hope your doing well with your workouts and Mr Hott........well, not to well......;-) You are so great with you consistency and determination. You just may very well fly past all of us!!!!!!

Neesy, your work schedule sounds like mine. Hope your sleeping gets on track and the next few days aren't too difficult.

Has anyone heard from BacktoBasics or Tiff? I miss them.

Have a great day ladies, need to get ready for work. Its going to be a loooong one.

mygrits - so sorry about the eye - such a bummer! Hope it doesn't hurt too much. It's so great that you're so busy moving around at work - I think you're going to have a whoosh week every week at this rate!

Girls, I'm so psyched - weighed myself this morning and 168 - that's thirty pounds since May!! According to my all powerful weekly weight loss schedule, I need to lose two pounds this coming week so I'm going to try to crank it up a notch. I'm kind of headachy and not really feeling like exercising but I'm going to do it anyway to try to keep the dial moving... I'm still shooting for 160 by 11/1. How's everyone else doing on their 11/1 goals? Mygrits - do you still have the list somewhere of where we all started? Maybe we could compare our weigh-ins tomorrow against our 8/1 starting weights, just to give us some added motivation as it seems everyone's doing really well right now.

Anyone got any suggestions for new songs from itunes? I need some new stuff to run to. I like hip hop and pop stuff with a good beat (lady gaga, beyonce, shakira). Okay, enough procrastinating - I'm heading out for my run...

Dance - :woohoo: about your weight loss - that is so awesome!!!

Where is Lindy...hope you are doing ok and on track my friend!

I did not work out yesterday :( excuses aside - I was bloated due to not using the washroom much - yuck sorry TMI - but does anyone else have that problem? Anyway, I managed to get through it and now it's 3PM and I have done nothing all day - I had some cerel, eggs and strawberries but that is all. I actually hopped on here so I could read and get motivated to get my arse to the gym. I don't know what my problem is!! I felt so awesome last week, why can't my brain just figure that out!!!

Anyway, I will come back on after the gym as I don't want to walk the aisle of shame for not working out for 6 days! I feel like I have undone all the hard work last week and even though my food has been reasonable, it's still not good enough. I'm scared to weigh in tomorrow :( I hope I lost at least a pound.

Anyway enough procrastinating - I'm going to the gym right now and going to work out my arse hard!!

Staccie - It's a good thing you're going to the gym, otherwise I might wimp out on getting in any more exercise today! I can't totally cop out on our exercise challenge, right?? I ran for an hour this morning and am shooting for an hour walk tonight after dinner. On the other issue you brought up, how are you doing for fiber in your diet? It's such a bummer when that happens, sorry!

Shooting for 1200-1300 cal today - trying to get off to a good start this week. You guys probably have tried these before but if not the fiber one oats and chocolate (and oats and caramel) bars are ridiculously good at 140cals and tons o fiber.

Hope everyone's doing well and out having crazy fun (instead of sitting inside typing away...).

Happy Saturday!

Well, I wished you all lived closer because Hott trainer is giving free fitness assessments next week! You'd be able to check him out for yourselves!

Had my workout with him last night, and it was actually fun (well, not the working out part). HE makes it fun (well, as fun as it can be) and makes me laugh. He said that he's glad that I'm able to laugh and joke during my workouts. We did some more circuits and I told him my goal to be under 200 pounds by 1/1/10. He said no problem, he would start emailing workouts to me to help me during the week so I can meet my goal. Such a great guy...

Also, I did some basic fitness assessments and found that I'm down 3% in body fat and brought my BMI down 5%, which he said is huge, so I'm happy (sore, but happy).

Did well food-wise yesterday: omlette with veggies for breakfast, soup and salad for lunch, and then a turkey burger for dinner. I saw some old co-workers for lunch yesterday and they said they could totally tell I've lost weight. They said my face definitely looked slimmer and could tell the weight was coming off. One person even said I was her inspiration to go and get a trainer as well.

Saw my old boss yesterday as well. He's such a super nice guy and was really upset when I was laid off from the company last year. He basically said that he was thinking that they were going to hire an assistant for him early next year and wanted me back. I loved working for this guy, but I'm not sure if I want to leave the steady job I have for a job that laid me off a year ago. But...I loved working for this guy and we had a great working relationship. And...looking in his office yesterday I could tell he was in deperate need. There's nothing wrong with the company I'm at, but the VP of HR (my boss' boss) is a total witch who makes everyone uncomfortable...including me. She just gives everyone dirty looks when we talk and converse (whether work related or not), so it's just not fun when she's around. She's even been through 5 assistants in the last 5 years if that gives you an idea. I just don't know...What would you ladies do?!?

Anyways, sorry to be all "me, me, me" but I had a really good day! I'll be back to weigh in tomorrow!

Mygrits-really hoping your black eye goes away soon. Glad you are doing a lot of walking and running around at work. You are still losing so the smoothies must be helping. Weigh in tomorrow so we will see where we both are then.

Dance-30 lbs!!! You need to celebrate!!! Buy a new workout outfit or get a new purse. Thats great. Those fiber one bars are yummy. I have some in the cupboard now.

Staccie-did you work out today?? We cant let you slip and skip a week!!!

Maddiesmom- I wish we lived closer too, I would get a free assessment from your trainer. I would love to work with a trainer. Glad you had such a great day. Not sure what to tell you with the work situation. Where would you get higher wages and which job do you see being more dependable? You will have to go with what you feel is right for you and your family.

I am so tired. Those boys kept me going from 7 this morning to about 6 tonight. Dont have to keep them tomorrow, their dad will be home. May have to keep them monday unless their mom gets the day off.

Got home around 730, had dinner with some cousins. She is a vegetarian so I had a veggie dog on a whole wheat bun with cut up bell pepper. It was actually good, not usually a fan of the meatless dogs or burgers. Came home got day 5 30ds done. Gonna spend a day at home tomorrow, cleaning and rearranging my living room. I get bored with it the same way all the time. I change things around at least once a month. Gonna get a run in tomorrow. I am gonna lay here and relax. Talk to my sisters for a bit and go to bed. Talk to you chicks tomorrow.

Howdy....

I did make it to the gym - I worked out for about an hour 1/2 but my energy level was really low. I ran/walked on an incline on the TM for 30 min, biked for 30 min and then did some weights. I feel better now - but still very tired. Wondering if I am coming down with something :( Anyway, I made it and I am glad I did - going again in the morning. The scale said I went up but my body doesn't look like it so I am attributing it to either me getting sick or this other issue I am dealing with.

Dance - thanks about the reminder of those fiber bars, I forgot about them - I had one awhile ago and they were very yummy. I am going to put more fiber stuff in my diet as this is horrible :( Did you go for your walk tonight?

Maddiesmom - sounds like you got an awesome trainer - that is great! There are so many out there that are not. He is a true professional!!! Interesting situation about the old job - it's always great to work for someone that you get a long with and respects you - sounds like your new boss isn't quite that way. Do you feel that if you went back, it would be secure? Maybe they realized how awesome you were and obviously want you back?

Burgandy - your dinner sounded awesome! I hear you on the meatless stuff, it's touch and go for me. I was a vegetarian for about a year but struggled with it and started slowly incorporating stuff back into my diet. I rarely eat red meat but I was going nuts on all the seeds and stuff!! Glad you are getting those workouts in!!! And I am like you, I like to change stuff around too but lately just keeping it clean is too much to handle!

Mygrits - I hope you had a good day today - and everyone else too.

Well my plan for tomorrow is work out early, get in the hottub, maybe a quick nap and then work - yuck!! I want to really do well this week. Weigh in tomorrow...ummm I'm scared. I might not do it until Wednesday when my body gets back into it's routine. That damn scale can really make me angry.

Morning, girls!

My bf woke up at 4:30 this morning so I got up too - am a little sleepy still despite lots of coffee.

Staccie - my exercise total yesterday is one hour run and one hour walk. Plan for today is another hour run and 30min rowing, the rowing part I keep planning but not doing so today I'm going to try to stick to it. If your system isn't cooperating, I totally understand wanting to postpone your weigh-in.

Maddiesmom - interesting job situation - I guess it depends on your appetite for risk but if your hubby's all set with a job and you can handle a bit of uncertainty, I think it makes such a difference to your quality of life to love the people you work with and to have a strong connection so I'd be inclined to go back to the old boss. Sounds like you're doing great on eating and congrats on your achievements! Glad you've got Hott on board with your end of year goals - that's great to have someone helping guide you in the right direction! With the way you're going, I think your end of year goal is totally doable - you must be excited to have that within reach!

burgundy - just think of all the exercise you're getting running around after the kiddos!! And yeah, I think I'm going to order some new running shoes and smaller running shorts to celebrate the 30lb mark.

Ok, is it just me or do you guys find you're much more motivated to work out and stay on plan on the days you see a drop on the scale? It seems like it should work the opposite way but for some reason seeing a loss will make me exercise like nothing else will and a gain will put me in a non-exercising funk. Weird, huh?

Forgot to add for weigh-in purposes that I'm still at 168 with a little hovering of the needle so hoping that will drop further by tomorrow (that makes 10lbs down for me since the beginning of our challenge if I remember correctly. I know a bunch of you are totally blowing my socks off!)

I love the running/exercise shorts on the below link - I haven't seen them in Target stores but they're available through amazon. I wore an XL when I was in the 190s and am now ordering mediums if that helps at all as far as sizes. They're seamless so no chafing when you run but they may be a little on the thin side for working out in a gym with lots of people around. You guys are probably all set with gear but thought I'd share just in case as I had been looking for something like this for ages before I found them.

http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/B000ZKEVCS/ref=pd_luc_mri?_encoding=UTF8&m=A1VC38T7YXB528&v=glance

Hi Chicks,

I have a few minutes, literally, and wanted to peak in. I do apologize if I only address the ones on this page, as I don't have time to read back farther....

Maddiesmom I DO wish we lived closer for an exercise assessment ;-) Besides looking gorgeous, he does seem like a really great trainer if there is humor, but serious workouts during that time. It is hard to find a good trainer, so I am happy you were able to accomplish that. In regards to your work, that is a difficult call, but I am one for a comfortable environment and some happiness too! It sounds like your heart is pulling you back to your old boss......... I worked for a fantastic, fun boss years ago. I loved it there and have always said if he ever needed me again, I would leave where I was and work for him. Incidentally, it says alot for YOU that he wants you back!!
Congratulations to on the old co-workers noticing your thinning body!! ;-)

Dance congratulatios on your weight loss to date - 10 lbs!!! Woo Hoo! The fact that you are at 168 and hoovering is tremendous. It will drop -
guaranteed!!!

Burgund I too am tired. I am sooo glad you get a day off to relax and well rearrange furniture. I guess that isn't relaxing, but hey, your at home!! lol You really sound like you are doing well on the 30ds, and probably kicking my butt on toning!

Staccie you are really doing awesome with workouts!! Totally kicking arse! LOL......I love that word......Anyway, I am glad you too are getting some relaxation in. I hope tomorrow goes well for you! My day at work yesterday was good, just very tired now, as it has been 4 days in a row and I go until Thursday. Thanks for asking though. Hope today is good for you in the weigh in!!

Ok, I weighed in and it read 213.4 WOO HOO HOO WOO!!!!! I am excited!! I am not getting my workouts in, which I really do miss, but atleast my weight is dropping. ;-) So that is 3.2 pounds for me this week. I will change my ticker when I get off of here. So I am almost caught up with Burgund, but she will probably soar ahead today!!

Have a good day ladies, need to get ready for work............

Hey ladies.

Staccie-at least you made it to the gym. Just keep it up and I am sure you will start feeling better.

Dance-I think we see the drop and are all happy about it going down and that motvates us to keep it going. When the scale doesnt move you just feel blah and are like oh well.

Mygrits-3.2 lbs this week is amazing, you are doing something right.

Nice cool relaxing day at home so far. Havent gotten my workout in yet, but I will. I made some stir fried veggies for lunch, cooked in cooking spray with light soy sauce. It was yummy. I have tons of veggies from the farm market so I will be eating good this week.

For the weigh in.......I am down to 211!!!!!!!!!!! Thats 2 lbs this week. Yay, Finally more than 1 lbs. AND I got to add another sun to my signature. I am so happy today

Where is everyone else?? Hope Lindy is feeling better.

Hello Ladies!

Sandy and Burgundy: CONGRATULATIONS!! You are both doing so great! I bet with Sandy's running around at work and Burgundy running after those boys, you both got workouts.

Dance: You are rocking the 160's, you do so well on your runs, I hope to be there some day with you!

Sandy, you are right. I went back and read my post and I think I'm really leaning toward working for my old boss. It's not that I'm not happy where I am, but the VP of HR (boss's boss) is probably going to make it very uncomfortable for me to work there when the time comes for me to have another baby. She basically thinks everyone is there to work and personal lives should not take time away from work. So, I think I'll tell Bill that if a position opens up, keep me in mind and hopefully they will pay me what I'm making now. We'll have to see.

Official weigh in...230! Yep, down 2 more pounds, which makes it a total of 17 pounds since our challenge started. I'll take it, I've been working really hard.

Anyways, Maddie is crying downstairs with the hubby, so we'll see what's going on. Hope everyone else sees a loss! :)

YAY for maddiesmom. 44 lbs, you are almost to the halfway mark, about 5 more lbs to go. Sounds like you have a plan with the job, good luck when the time comes.

I noticed everyone is posting how much they have lost since the start of our challenge. I have lost 11 lbs since 8/1. Hope to lose 1 more by the end of the month. Thats 3 days, I can do it.

Wow, guys - woohoo on the losing streak!
mygrits - you are doing great!
maddiesmom - omg, 17 since the beginning of the challenge - you go, girl!
burgundy - wow 2lbs this week - that's just what you were shooting for, wtg!
Like an idiot, I waited until it got too hot to run so now I'm waiting until it starts to cool down a bit this afternoon. Silly, I know but I think getting up so early has me a bit off... Hope the good news keeps on rolling in!

Hi all,

Well I am down nada...umph. I'm disappointed but I also weigh 2 pounds less than yesterday so that means my system might be getting back up to speed. I certaintly feel like I've lost inches. On Sept 30th it will be 21 days and I take another photo - sometimes it's easier to see there because I my view of myself is somewhat off lol. Regardless, I had an excellent workout and I am going for a long walk to the farmers market to pick up some fresh fruit and veggies for the week. I have a great deal of energy today so that is awesome.

Congrats to everyone that is down - you all deserve it!! :celebrate: I'm very proud of everyone!!!! Interesting how I don't know any of you personally, but I feel like I do - I couldn't wait to get home today from the gym and log in to see how everyone is doing!!!

Dance - I so hear you about the scale, if there is no movement, I feel discouraged. Yesterday, that happened - I was like what?!?!? And I just about went home, but I didn't. Today when I saw the number was down I was like yahoo - not great, but at least not more and I had more energy. I'm driven by rewards in mostly everything that I do. And seeing a change on the scale, in a picture or in clothes is a definite reward. I'm like one of those terrier dogs...relentless :)

Dance - thanks for the recommendation of shorts...when my legs get less hideous I might think of that :) Lululemon is huge up here. Expensive as **** but I tell ya they don't hug in the right places and they last forever. It is about $100.00 for a pair of pants but I have four pair and I could seriously live in them. In fact, when I hit my first goal I am allowed to buy something there - plus I have lots of stuff that fit me before that I can't wait to get into again. I LOVE wearing cute outfits to the gym - not to attract people but just so I feel good. But I don't wear make-up - I draw the line at that. I saw a girl there this morning with full make-up and hair done - maybe that's how she feels good but I can't imagine how much I sweat - talk about clogging up my pores!

Mygrits you are hauling arse!!! :woohoo: - that is so awesome - just think once you get more settled and throw a bit of exercise in there - you are going to be belly dancing by Christmas!!!

Vicky - that sounds like a plan - crossing my fingers for you - working in a more positive atmosphere can make a huge difference!!!

Well I have to get ready for my farmers market visit. It's about 2 miles there and 2 miles back along the seawall. It's gorgeous today - breezing and beautiful - my favorite time of year. I'm not sure that I want to move anymore when the Olympics are over. But I am trying not to think too much of that right now because it really stresses me out. I have decided however that I will not be going to London - I want a permanent job wherever it might be. I have about six months to go...yikes!!!

Check in later - everyone have a happy Sunday and keep going into the mirror and giving yourself a wink, high five and a twirl for how awesome you are looking. I can't wait until I don't have to close my eyes when I look at myself in the mirror at the gym anymore!!!

Hi Chickies!

Ohhh to my feet hurt......:( I hope I get used to all this standing and walking and standing and walking and standing.......:running:........Ugh. I have three more 8 to 9 hour days......I can't even imagine how I will feel then.

Well on another note CONGRATULATIONS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :balloons: You girls are kicking arse! Dang! Maddiesmom 17 pounds?? Wow, I would say your in the lead! LOL..... :congrat: Dance in the 160's.....I am sooo envious....and I know you look and feel good! :belly: Burgund..I knew it....you zoomed ahead and I need to catch up again! Staccie, you too are doing fantastic. Your two pounds yesterday does count and with your workouts I know you will drop even more this week! :cheer: Keep it up! You girls deserve it and I hope all of you are enjoying your Sunday.

I was pooped today when I got home and had a wonderful surprise with my daughter-in-law making dinner. Yes, I pigged out, but it's OK as I know I will take it off tomorrow walking and standing and walking again.

Oh Dance, I am in agreement. If I don't lose it like I feel blah and whats the use with the workouts and eating healthy. If I lose then I feel I can conquer anything. This week I feel good

Any news from Lindy, Basics, Tiff or Neesy? I hope they are doing well.

Well, didn't make it to the gym tonight. My hubby and I went out and celebrated his new job at this upscale steakhouse in Lincolnshire. I didn't eat all of my steak (only ate half) had some potatoes, and a side salad to start. Not a drinker, but since it was a celebration I had a raspberry martini, that was so unbelievably good. Then, hubby and I split a 1/2 piece of chocolate cake. I didn't gorge myself like I used to do, and since we have something to celebrate...I didn't feel guilty.

I wanted to make it to the gym, but I'm still too full to even attempt to go. So, i'm going to go tomorrow. With the hubby now working, I will have to go to the gym after Maddie goes down for the night because I now have to drop her off and pick her up from daycare (Matt used to be able to pick her up, but now works in the opposite direction of daycare). Plus, my personal training sessions are now on Saturday. I've been keeping track of my gym attendance, and I'm actually going 4 times a week. NOt too shabby.

Hope Lindy, Neesy, Tiff and Basics are ok. I also hope things are going well for AJ's move. Hope to hear from them soon!

Sandy: It will take some time to get used to being on your feet all day, but you're getting a workout by doing that! I used to wait tables and it does take a lot out of you. Hope you are doing well with the new job.

Have a great night ladies!

hey girlies! I'm 2lbs down from last week. I'll take it! Which puts me at 194. I'm so exhausted from work. I'll check in tomorrow. Goodnight!

Sandy - I hope someone is giving you some good feet massages or if not, soaking them in some epson salts - your poor footsies!!!

Neesy - woo hoo for your 2 pounds - hope you get caught up on your rest tonight - I imagine you had a busy weekend...you're already at 194!!! That's so awesome!

Vicky - well the dinner sounded very nice and you didn't go nuts - great control and you're right to not feel guilty for celebrating - we can't look at food as the enemy for the rest of our lives

Well I went for a long walk to the Farmers market, picked up some awesome fresh veggies and fruit and then had a nap, now I have to work for a few hours. Excited about going to the gym in the morning - glad that came back so fast! Everyone is back from holidays tomorrow so I assume I will have a busy day. I am on holiday in about three weeks...for two whole weeks and I can't wait!!!

Night girls - see ya tomorrow!

Morning girls! Up crazy early again - weird for me as I'm usually more of a night owl.

Neesy - congrats on the two lbs!! you are doing so well!

Mygrits - good luck at work today - I wonder how long it takes before you get used to it, hopefully by next week it will seem normal.

Maddiesmom - Eating out is tricky, isn't it? Sounds like you had a nicely restrained celebration though, well done!

Staccie - what are you going to do with your upcoming (and much-deserved) vacation? Good for you on the long walk. I only ended up doing my run yesterday but am going to try to stay active this week starting with a long walk after work today.

Lindy - hope you were out having a wild and crazy fun weekend - it's unusual for you to skip a Sunday weigh in!

Hey girls...sorry Ive been MIA. My dad made an impromptu visit into town and I just wrapped up with him and prepping for my vaca, which I leave on Saturday. Anyway, Ill have to catch up with everyone elses post later but it looks like you guys are killing it with the weight loss. As for me...none lost but none gained. Considering how many times I fell off the wagon last week, Ill take it!

Ill check in later. Hope everyone is having a skinny day! :)

Lindy - glad you were having fun and not stuck at the office or something! Good job on maintaining your cleanse losses - that's seriously impressive!

So, as continued proof that the weekly weight loss schedule has magic powers, I'm posting the below ;) Am feeling pretty postive about staying on track this week and hitting 166 by next Monday.
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

Dance - you are killing it with your weight loss goals, I am beyond excited, happy and most of all proud of you! My goal for my cruise is to only gain 3 pounds. I know its silly to estimate a goal of gaining weight, but seriously, I have gained as much as 8 pounds on a cruise. I would eat even when I wasnt hungry. My plan is to exercise everyday for at least an hour, if not more (if I have down time) and to eat sensibly. I am not going to be a healthy nut because frankly, I can get foods on that ship that I cant get in day to day life BUT I have not going to eat just to eat, I am eating to keep myself full. Hers hoping it works. :) So, whats your exercise routine this week?

Staccie-your walk sounds nice. 4 miles is a long way.

Mygrits-hope your feet start feeling better soon.

Maddiesmom-you did great with your celebration meal. Think back to before you started this and what you would have eaten then. There is probably a huge difference.

Neesy-you are just trucking along. Your husband is gonna be so surprised.

Lindy-glad you are feeling better and had a good time with your dad. How long is your cruise?

Dance-your goals look totally doable. That is a good idea to make a chart like that.

I feel so bloated today. The scale said I was up 2 lbs. Its pain like TOM, but I just had it this month so it cant be that. My back is hurting. Maybe just gas(sorry if thats TMI) I didnt drink a lot of water yesterday so I am going to drink a lot today. Gonna wait til a little later to do day 7 30ds.
Hope this pain goes away soon and I can workout. Its raining out today. Maybe it will let up later and I can walk.

I have a nintendo ds and a game called My Weight Loss Coach. It gives me daily challenges to do and one yesterday was to do 15 minutes of push up, situps, crunches, etc., while watching TV instead of just sitting there. Hopefully it keeps giving me challenges like that to get more workouts in.

Gonna do some stretches, maybe that will help with me stomach and back.

Hope everyone is having a great Monday.

Lindy - you are such a sweetie - always making people feel good! That is, unless they need a touch of tough-love Jillian attitude : ) I'm just hoping I can catch up with you eventually, you weight loss queen! I'm such the slow moving turtle at this stuff. Maybe it would help if I actually stuck to plan all the time instead of having wobbles! :) I would think it would be super hard to resist temptations on a cruise - so you're probably being realistic thinking you might go up a bit for a short period but I'm sure you'll get it right off again. Are you working on your tan before you go? Tell us more about the cruise if you know details of where you'll be stopping. Do they have exercise classes on board? My exercise plan this week is to run like crazy as that seems to be the biggest help in speeding up the weight loss process. How about you?

burgundy - bummer that you're not feeling well. Hope the situation improves soon! A walk or other gentle exercise might help a bit. Love the idea of your weight loss coach - how fun!

Off to a healthy lunch at Whole Foods with a buddy...

Hi chicks!

Well I have a few moments to catch up. I am feeling pretty good today. I am working out tonight instead of this morning because I didn't fall asleep until after 1AM - I'm going to some class tonight where you use weights, bands, etc - I have never done that before so I am kinda scared. I'm trying to incorporate some of that stuff into my routine to shock my body a bit. So far today I have had a protein shake and banana for breakfast, chicken and veggie stir-fry (low sodium soya sauce and no rice or noodles) a yogurt and some raspberries. This afternoon I have a Fibre One Bar and cottage cheese.

Dance - with my vacation I am visiting friends, my old colleagues, my mom, sister and just hanging out. Lots of Halloween stuff planned - I love Halloween and spending it with my sister. I thought about doing something exotic but I really just want to lay around in my sweats and of course get some good workouts in :)

Lindy - hi and glad you spent some time with your dad this weekend, I can't believe you are going on your cruise this weekend, I am so jealous. BTW, I think it's very smart to estimate a weight gain - let's face it, vacation is a time to have fun and not worry about things. At the same time, by allowing yourself 'something' you will keep a limit on it. And that's important.

Burgandy - umm that sounds a lot like something I had last week...are you ah 'backed up' - sorry there is no polite way to say that. That game sounds good, it's sure a productive use of time to do something while watching TV - that is a really smart idea! I say do some stretches and go somewhere to unleash the evil!

Well I better get back to work. I got lots to do - umph. I am looking forward to, although slightly scared of this class tonight with all the skinny people - as long as I find something at the back of the class I should be ok!!!

Check in later and let you know if I survived with my pride!!!

Staccie - knock 'em dead in your class tonight! I like the sound of your vacation - especially the idea of lots of workouts! Will you still be in the Vancouver area or does your family live far away?

Burgundy- that game sounds so cool, its kinda sounds like this Wii Active game that my mom has. It generates special programs to fit your lifestyle, diet, age/weight...etc. Its pretty cool. Anyway, sorry to hear about your back. :( I hope you feel better soon. Maybe its a UTI? That happens to me occasionally, but then again, Im not a doctor.

Dance- Ok cruise details...its a 6 day cruise going to Keys, Jamaica and Grand Cayman. Im excited at the thought of going to the Keys and Jamaica, Grand Cayman...eh, Ive been there twice sooooo. Anyway, I think Im setting a realistic "goal"...haha, in not losing or gaining more than 3. We will see. This week I plan on running my butt of this week, I am going to run every night for 3 miles. In addition to my 1.5 mile walk in the AM. I would like to be 165 before the cruise, just to make it an even number (and add another smiley, lol). The ship does not leave till Sunday, so Im going to layout on Saturday to work on my tan a little more, lol...everyone is making fun of me because they are like...Nicole, your going to get plenty of color on the cruise. Silly me.

Stacie- the class your taking kinda sounds like my body works class. We use weights, bands and steppers and combine them, along with squats and lunges. I absolutely LOVE this class, its like Jillian Michaels 30DS x3, haha. Good luck! I cant wait to hear your feedback on it.

Ok, I have to wrap up my day, Ill check in later.

Lindy - sounds like you'll have a blast!

Ok I got day 7 done. My back still feels funny. Staccie, I am not backed up, thankfully. Dont know what it is. Gonna take some pepto and relax. Hope everyone else is having a good day. I have to keep one of the boys tomorrow, so I am hoping I feel better.

Hey Chicks

Maddiesmom - Congratulations on your husband job!!! I had no idea! Is it something he is looking forward to - meaning is this in his 'career' area? You did awesome on the celebration dinner, and yes, it was a celebration. Good for you and him ;-)

Lindy - Wow, I am excited for you and the upcoming cruise. You are really smart to for trying to exericse 'up' this week and get your metabolism running and then going on the cruise. That will definitely help you through the eating. Enjoy though. A cruise is meant for eating, drinking, relaxing and just having fun!!!!!!!! Hey, and maybe Boston Accents??? LOL........

Dance - Good for you on the looonnnggg walk. I miss my daily walking outside. Your goal list is a really great idea to help stay on track. I may implement one myself.

Neesy - That is so wonderful.....194! Wow! Remember when you wanted to be 199 when your husband got back? LOL........you blew that plan all to he**......LOL...... You go girl!

Burgund - Ok, its a race! LOL...........I was up a pound today, which really bumbed me out, but hey, I ate quite a bit for dinner last night. Hopefully tomorrow it will be back off again.

Staccie - You soooo deserve that vacation and I am so happy you have it coming soon. Two weeks.......can you even imagine the relaxation you will experience? LOL........ I am so proud of you too, as you seem to really have a handle on healthier eating and your workouts. Good for you!

Well, my feet hurt again........but I know I will adapt eventually. I did buy some insole cushions for tomorrow to see if that will help. The work itself has gotten somewhat better, but next week will be the true test. I work two doubles back to back on Tuesday and Wednesday....UGH! Tuesday is a monthly day sale they have, and literally hundreds and hundreds of customer attend. Its a mad house. Now if I survive that, we are good to go! LOL...........

Hey girls! So.. I have the best problem in the world. All my clothes are too loose on me. They just hang.. or fall right off. Haha. So.. I had to buy more scrubs for work.. size small pants and medium tops!!! Let me just say wow. I was in XL pants a year ago. I put them on.. and it was amazing to see. I may post pictures. I went shopping today and got some new pants and tops too. I bought size 14 jeans. They fit perfectly. It's so much nicer going into a store and actually finding your size. I was wearing size 18.. pushing 20 at my highest. So... I have to get more clothes. I tried on everything almost in my closet today.. even my jeans that I use to think were small.. are too big now. So, I have to spend more $. Oh the dilemna haha . Oh.. i have yet to find the perfect outfit for grad day. I just don't know. I may just end up wearing jeans and a nice shirt. Who knows. It's going to be too cold for a dress. It was freezing today! Well.. I'll talk to you girls later


Oh. and did i mention.. I can't wear my wedding ring anymore. It falls right off. As soon as I put my hand to my side.. it falls off. I need to get it resized. I may just wait until I get to my goal though.

Hey girls! So.. I have the best problem in the world. All my clothes are too loose on me. They just hang.. or fall right off. Haha. So.. I had to buy more scrubs for work.. size small pants and medium tops!!! Let me just say wow. I was in XL pants a year ago. I put them on.. and it was amazing to see. I may post pictures. I went shopping today and got some new pants and tops too. I bought size 14 jeans. They fit perfectly. It's so much nicer going into a store and actually finding your size. I was wearing size 18.. pushing 20 at my highest. So... I have to get more clothes. I tried on everything almost in my closet today.. even my jeans that I use to think were small.. are too big now. So, I have to spend more $. Oh the dilemna haha . Oh.. i have yet to find the perfect outfit for grad day. I just don't know. I may just end up wearing jeans and a nice shirt. Who knows. It's going to be too cold for a dress. It was freezing today! Well.. I'll talk to you girls later


Oh. and did i mention.. I can't wear my wedding ring anymore. It falls right off. As soon as I put my hand to my side.. it falls off. I need to get it resized. I may just wait until I get to my goal though.

I don't know if the "buddies" thread is open to anyone but I came across this one and thought... "I could have written this email...almost exactly!!" (except the scrubs and grad stuff LOL)

I had the clothes falling off (or looking rather tent like) thing going on too and I finally had to go shopping last week. In February, I bought several size 22's and the odd 24. Last week I went shopping and bought size 13 jeans...from a non-plus size store!! My bra? Once a 44J now a 40C. Holy smokes!

And I also had to stop wearing my weddings rings for fear of losing them. I bought a little plastic "resizer" but it isn't very comfortable so I only use it when I really want to wear my rings. I was wondering too....how much more will my fingers shrink? Should I resize now or wait until I am at or closer to goal?

Hope it's okay to chime in like this... :)

Ok that class kicked my arse - literally! It was TOUGH!! But I was surprised at how well I did and I wasn't even too self-conscious with all the skinny girls. I do hate being the biggest one in the class though - but at least I am trying to change it. It's a nice cardio workout because I get really bored with just doing the usual things so I may just incorporate a bit more of that into my workouts!! Glad I faced the fear and went in. Now I am beyond exhausted and I have to do some work but I might just say 'to :devil: with it". I have spin class in the am.

Neesy - WOW WEE!!!! :cheer: that is so awesome for you - ensure you get rid of those clothes quick!!! Buy a few outfits that will get you through the next little while. I got goosebumps when I read your post!

Sandy - poor footsies...hopefully the extra support will help and that you have really great shoes (that can make all the difference). But you sure sound like you are doing awesome and adapting well!!! I bet everyone enjoys your awesome smile and so awesome too that the pounds are melting off.

Burgandy - I am happy that you didn't have to purge the evil!!! I hope you are ok after a nice relaxing night! And congrats on day 7!!!! You are rocking hard girl.

Lindy - your cruise sounds DIVINE!!! And imagine how awesome you are going to feel with your new body and attitude. Cabana boys - woo hah!!!! Hey, and I say go for the tan, it makes everyone look healthier and skinnier!! And that way if you get a really good base one, you will bronze nicely on the cruise.

Dance - well I feel kinda dead lol but in a good way, great shock for my body and I sweat a litre of water I felt like! As for my vacation, my friends and family are about 1.5 hours away by plane (just in the next province) you would think I would get home more often!! But I never want to come back! I just can't wait for the Olympics to be over so I can settle into my new life, home, job, etc. I don't like the temporary thing - I've never felt settled since I lived here and I think that contributed to a lot of my depression and binging issues. Now that I know the end is coming I finally get off my arse so I look good and have a lot more confidence when the time comes. Five months for today will be the last game - kind of freaky!!! I've been working on this project for almost two years. But my resume is gonna kick arse!!!!

Well I have to do at least 1/2 hour of work I suppose or I have to get up extra early. I am almost considering that with how tired I am. Will check in tomorrow and hope everyone is dreaming of bikini's, cabana boys and/or whatever else makes you happy :)

Morning girls...its bright and early-545 am to be exact,lol. I was planning on going to the gym but I had an overload of jalapenos in my breakfast burrito, and subway sub yesterday and well, it is not favorable for me to leave my house this morning. So Im wide awake when I could be sleeping and running to the bathroom every 5 minutes, haha...I know TMI, sorry. It sucks because I really wanted to go to the gym but seriously, that would be a BAD idea.

Mygrits- one could only dream for Boston boys on the ship, I will cross my fingers, lol. Getting back into a work routine is brutal and its 10x worst when you have to stand all day...sorry to hear about the feet issues, something tells me that you are going to see some big drops on the scale though. Between moving and grooving so much and the exhaustion (when Im exhuasted I eat less), I think this is going to help with your weight loss in tremendous ways...so you go girl! ;)

Stacie- I saw your jello legs post on FB, I take it the class was beneficial to say the least? Haha.

Neesy - woo-hoo! Isnt it exciting? Ok, so your wearing a size small pants. Do you ever sit there and think of your goal weight and wonder if you shot too low? I am starting to think that because Im in the 160's and already wearing mediums and size 8/10s' and I think....omg, if I get down to 120-130 I might be like a size 2 or something?! I cant even imagine! I am shooting for a size 4, once I get there, I will consider my weight loss journey over.

Ok, well...Ill check in when I get to work.

Morning, girls!

Mygrits - good timing on the insoles - hopefully they will help on your double days! Totally agree with Lindy - I think this job, tough as it is, may help you a ton in your weight loss efforts. Hang in there, kiddo!

Neesy - I was just beaming when I read your post. Isn't that the funnest problem in the world to have? It's a good time to hit the clearance racks at your favorite stores and start cruising Ross and TJMaxx for killer deals. That's basically how I've been handling the transition. You need a few well fitting pieces for the season you're in for each size you pass through. The best part is that the smaller you get the more quickly you move through sizes. Not sure if that made sense but it takes less weight to go from a 12 to a 10 than it does from a 16 to a 14. Anyway, super fun! Are you going to give your old clothes away? I hope so - that means no turning back! So excited for you - you are doing great and should be so proud!!

momof5k - welcome! This is a great group - very supportive. Congrats on your weight loss success so far!

staccie - wow on the killer class! You are a stud! I'd love to hear more about what kind of job you're interested in and where you might like to resettle after the olympics. Some people really thrive on stress and adrenaline but it seems like you could have more of a balanced, healthy life with a slightly less crazy job.

lindy - bummer on the tummy distress but I'm sure you'll make up for it with an extra long run tonight. You are doing so well with your exercise and weight loss - those size 4s are just around the corner!

Did great on eating yesterday - just 1250 cals and no problems at all with the munchies. Am planning on another super clean day - long run this morning and yogurt and fruit for breakfast, chicken and veggies for lunch, fish, salad and couscous for dinner.

Here's to a skinny Tuesday! Hope everyone's doing great...

I was up at 4AM raring to go for the day. Stupid endorphins lol.

I'm not sore this morning....ummm!! But I might have trouble putting my bra on :)

I have spin class soon so I am heading out. I love that class - even my arse agrees.

Keep shooting for the stars and those sizes girls! Imagine the day when you fit into a small!!!

I will check in later - me and my arse are heading for some shaving of inches!

Dance---thanks for helping me keep my eye on the prize (so to speak)...you know what to say at all the right times! ;) It amazes me how you can continue to have these low calorie days and not gorge a day later. Sometimes I have the will power and sometimes I dont, you consistantly do, way to go!

Stacie - your outlook on things these days is simply amazing! If you arent the pep in our step for the forum as a whole, way to take the reins and lead the way! You and I were on the same schedule this morning, haha.

OK EVERYONE---I want to get your attention and tell you about this great website, its called Nutrimirror.com, someone that my mom works with who lost a TON of weight used this and it is awesome! To create an account, is free. It gives you all sorts of tips, good advice, it tracks your exercise, weight loss, its just awesome. I think Im going to be playing with this for the next few days because Ive never seen anything like it. I HIGHLY recommend that you register, this is a great tracking method.

Lindy - just to get your competitive juices flowing, I'm at 167 this morning, right on your heels! ;) How about a little competition until you leave for your cruise? I know you'll kick my butt but it would be good for me anyway :)

Neesy - you inspired me to do another closet re-org this morning just to get me pumped up (and I got up extra early and it was too dark to run). I've always had a bunch of garbage bags of clothes as well as the whole guest room closet full of stuff that was too small. Now I just have one section of stuff left over from skinnier times and the results of my pre-vacation size 8 shopping for Costa Rica this winter. Such a good feeling!

I may have mentioned it before but a few years ago I saw an Oprah with a pro-organization guy who had written a book called 'Does this clutter make my butt look fat?' and he believed that it's harder to treat your body well when you're surrounded by chaos and disorganization. I think I'm going to take some time this weekend to go through my kitchen cabinets and bathroom drawers and impose some skinny-supportive order. Anyone else find that having other parts of your life organized helps keep you on plan?

Dance - heck to the yeah Im down for a challenge. I really need to make sure Im buckling down for my trip. Instead of jogging in the evening, Im thinking of doing rollerblading for 30-45 minutes. According to looking it up it burns 400 calories in 30 minutes! Woo-hoo, sounds good to me, lol.

Woo hoo - a great wiggle between Dance and Lindy - you go girls!!

Spin class was tough - I didn't get enough sleep - I need to keep that in mind.

I can't wait until I get to do the clothes cleanse. Things are moving slow on the scale but the changes in my body are definite. Tomorrow is 21 days and I am taking a photo to see the changes. I guess the older you get, the harder it is to get off....grrrr.

I don't want to go to work...too much drama. I have a strong, assertive personality and I can't stand it when people are sulky and pout. I have no tolerance for that. Oh well, what can you do!

I will check in at lunch - and yes Dance organizing things keeps me on track, like keeping my room clean and my fridge decent - even having a messy desk at work contributes to me snacking more. Strange heh?

Grrr....Im so flippin hungry. I left my lunchbox at home today and left my wallet at home too so I would stop eating Cheez Its, where does that leave me?! STARVING!!! The soonest I can get food is at 330, after I pick up my daughter. Im trying to drink lots of water but its hard. My goal today is to not binge eat because of my stupidity. I did good because one of the girls at work got McDonalds and she asked if I wanted anything and I declined, so yay me for that move. 2.5 hours- I CAN DO THIS. Then tonight I have my run, I know I said I was going to rollerblade instead but my mom wants to go running and doesnt want to go byherself, so...looks like running it is.

How is everyones elses day going?

Ok, so I have to vent---kinda. Im not angry just motivated as all ****. I work with a very -- very honest and opinionated co-worker. At times it can suck but for the most part, I can appreciate her brutal honesty. When I dyed my hair blonde, she flat out told me she hated it and that I looked like a bimbo, haha...she also referred to me as "beast" on some occasions because when I was heavier I breathed heavy and didnt realize it, ok...this one was a little hurtful but I carry a thick layer of skin. Well, today we were talking about my weight loss and I told her how I wanted to be a size 4, she proceeded to tell my that there is no way in **** that I could physically get that low because Im destined to be a chubby girl, she also threw in a compliment that I am one of those women that can be a knock-out even at 220+ pounds, but still...it got me a little rawled up. Then we were talking about my cruise and I told her I needed be careful so that I didnt gain, then she told me she "guarantees" that I gain 10+ pounds, that I dont have that much self discipline, I told her I budgeted a 4-5 pound weight gain and she was like "no way in ****, there is no chance, you will gain so much more than that". Oh---its on! So now we have a friendly wager, I am bringing inmy scale on Fridya and weighing myself in front of her, then bringing it in again, when I get back. If I stay under 10 pounds in weight gain, she will treat me to lunch, if I gain 10 or more, I treat her. This is a great incentive and I cant wait to prove her wrong. I know she sounds like a mean person but honestly, I rather someone be honest than lie to my face and people putting me down doesnt afffect me because I consider myself a pretty confident girl. Sorry for the long babble post, I just had to tell you girls about my new incentive. Oh...and my hunger pangs, gone! I borrowed .50 from a girl at work and got some almonds from the snack machine...good choice I think. :)

I've had a sh*t day :( too long to go into details but I am really angry (because of work) and feel really unmotivated. But motivated to eat a good dinner and go to Yoga cause I need to relax.

Lindy - I am so glad that you had .50 for some almonds...and you didn't indulge in some other activites! And good incentive that is - I hope you rub it in her face! What a horseface!!!

Ok I am going to log in when I am less mad

dancerindenver: Thanks for the welcome! I'll try to pop in once in while if I am not intruding :)

Mygrits-You want a race, you got one. I was up 2 lbs yesterday but gonna get them off in a flash. Hope the insoles helped.

Neesy-SO SORRY, that problem is just awful, lol. Congrats on the small. Before I lost any weight in 2005, my wedding rings were a size 9, now I wear a 7 but they are starting to get big.

Momof5-HI!! Jump right in with us. Congrats on your weight loss. How long did it take you to lose that 70 lbs?

Staccie-you are doing so well with workouts lately. Still havent tried spinning but would like to. I really wish I would have taken a picture 8 days ago when I started 30ds. Gotta take one soon.

Lindy-sorry about your issue this morning, smart move not going to the gym. That gives you a good reason to stick mainly to plan on the cruise and prove that coworker wrong. I cant believe she said you cant get down to a 4, look how far you've already come. Gonna check out the website you suggested

Dance-sounds like most of your days are super clean days. Food sounds yummy. Yes I feel so much better and want to stay on plan when things are where they should be. My house is a mess right now and I am feeling it.

I feel like I ate all day!!!! Ate dinner around 6, now no more eating for me today. I kept one of the boys from 730-330 and I have to go back over there to keep them from 9-3am. I got day 8 done. If my sister wasnt doing this with me, I dont know that I would have the motivation to do it alone. 2 more days and we are going to move on to level 2. I feel better today. I am thinking it was a bathroom issue(sorry TMI) but at least its over. No back pain at all today. Gotta get my eating back on track tomorrow. My calories were around 1600 today but the food wasnt the healthiest.

Hope everyone is having a great night. Talk to you ladies tomorrow.

Momof5-HI!! Jump right in with us. Congrats on your weight loss. How long did it take you to lose that 70 lbs?

My "official" start date was March 28th. Some days I can't believe how fast it is going and other days it feels like I'll NEVER get there.

momof5k - wow, that is amazing progress since March!!! :bravo: What are you doing?

lindy - I'm all for honesty but your co-worker sounds tricky - those are some pretty strong views about someone else's body and eating habits. But good for you for turning it into a positive challenge!

staccie - hope today is better!

burgundy - glad having your sis do 30ds is keeping you motivated - that's great.

Didn't do as well yesterday as I wanted to - too much cheese and crackers which is often my weakness! Am going to try to do better today. I'm meeting a high school friend that I haven't seen since the spring so it should be fun to catch up. I'm going to go check the menu at PF Chang's to figure out some healthy options...

Stacie - I saw on FB that you decided to go with kick boxing of yoga...you go girl! I prefer high intensity to relieve stress versus yoga or pilates. Sorry to hear your day sucked, on a positive note, I didnt hear you mention that you indulged because of the stress....so go you!

momof5k- welcome! Im sorry, I missed your first post for some reason. Anyway, your welcome to browse this forum whenever you want, most of us come on here daily because we have a great support group. Your weight loss is amazing, you are doing a great job, good for you. What is your program anyway?

Burgundy- I know you said you ate a lot, but for staying at 1600 calories, you did good. Not to mention your sticking with the shed...good job girly! Im glad that you and your sister are able to hold each other accountable.

Neesy- where you been girl. I see you poke your head in here or there. Have you heard from you hubby lately?

Ok, not too much to report on. I had a good food day yesterday, exercise is good. I did my Bodyworks class this morning and 5 minutes on the stair climber. It was weird, I tried to push myself on the stair climber with a really high level and by 5 minutes my heart felt like it was coming out of my chest, so I had to stop. :( Oh well, at least I did a little. I wont be able to run tonight because Gabriella has soccer.

Hi Ladies, sorry I've been MIA. Work has been absolutely crazy and I've been working 10 hour days.

Sandy: Thanks for the congrats on the hubby's job. The job is something that he can do, he'll be learning, but they keep pushing his start date. After telling him to make a decision by the end of the day, he accepted the job and was supposed to start this past Monday. Well, Monday became Tuesday, then Tuesday became Wed. then he got a call at 5:30 last night and now it's tomorrow. Geez. He's just getting in the start work mode and it hasn't paid off.

Monday I did go to the gym, even though I didn't want to. I warmed up and then ran an entire mile...without stopping! God only knows when I did that last! I was then on the rowing machine for 1000 meters. Hott trainer saw me, smiled and gave me a thumbs up. Then, I was on the elliptical machine for 25 minutes and went 2.3 miles on that. Went home, and passed out.

Didn't go the gym last night, I was at work late and didn't get much sleep the night before (poor Maddie has allergies that keep waking her up...which keeps waking me up). I plan on going tonight even though I'm working late and didn't sleep well again (same reason). But...I have to go. I go 4-5 times per week, so I have to keep the momentum going.

Have a great day ladies!

maddiesmom - :bravo: on your mile run - that's great! Sorry you've been so swamped - hope things get easier soon!

Dance- I LOVE PF CHANGS!! Do you eat sushi, they do have sushi on their menu and its delicious. Oh, I recommend mushroom soup, really yummy and really low in calories and sodium. I always get excited about seeing old friends, yay for you.

Maddiesmom- you are on it girl with your exercise routine. Im seriously afraid of you! haha. Your inching yourself closer to winning the competition. It kinda sucks that Im going on a cruise and coming back with only 2 weeks left before it ends but hey...if I dont win it this time, theres always next time. ;) Its not really about winning though, Im just so happy to see everyone doing so well.

I am doing great calorie wise, super excited. I love it because I have that friendly competition with my co-worker going, so its keeping me focused. Anyway, Ill talk to you girls later.

Lindy - I'd kind of forgotten about the 'winning' aspect to the competition.

I'm sure you'd all agree that getting closer and closer to our goals is a HUGE win in itself for all of us. I can't wait to send the prize money to one of you! I so know that my percentage lost isn't super high but I couldn't be happier about the progress I've made. Well, maybe a little happier if I were losing even more but I'll get there, right?

So glad we have each other - when you look at all of the success stories in this group, it's pretty amazing - especially considering the usual success rate in weight loss efforts. You guys are the best!

Hey Lindy. I have been trying to keep busy. I've been doing a lot of shopping lately. haha. Plus I have been doing things with my family and then just working and sleeping a lot. Trying to pass the time quicker. I got a couple letters from my husband yesterday. No phone calls in well over a month.. so that sucks. But it seems like he is doing okay. Just missing me like crazy. He wants me to bring him oreos, chips ahoy and cheez its for graduation. haha. I seriously think it is so much easier without him here... so I have to work up a game plan for when we're together again.. which hopefully by jan/feb.. i will be at my 160 goal. So.. we'll see.

Neesy - That must be so tough having him so far away. I totally agree that it's much easier to get started at least on a new way of eating when it's just you and there are no negative temptations around. You'll be so far along, though, when he comes back that you'll be fine even if he gets into the treats fairly often. Have you had a chance to wear the new boots yet?

So, my old buddy that I met for lunch totally noticed the change since the last time I saw her in the spring which was nice as did the work friend I had lunch with on Monday (and who I hadn't seen for a few weeks). It was nice to have them notice as I was starting to wonder if all those pounds really didn't make a difference at all and I was still the chubby girl. Silly to worry about when I know I'm making changes for the better but we all have our little insecurities, right?

Hi Chicks,

I missed you all today! Well last night was a bad night for me - I didn't indulge in food or anything so that was really good but I was teary and sleepless. I didn't go work out because I felt really tense and thought I might hurt myself at the gym. And then this morning I woke up and BOY was I sore!!! Holy moly! Must have been from the workout I had in am on Tues and that class Monday night. So I decided to take today off to rest. Back tomorrow morning for spin class and a lower leg work out. Eating has been good, I had a few cookies this afternoon but I held it at that despite there being loads of junk food.

Yesterday I got pooped on by a bird on my way home and today I have a rash from the clown make-up I had to wear. We have weekly parties at work and I was the designated clown because I can make balloon animals. I couldn't get the make-up off and went to Sephora on the way home and now I have a rash...boy I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

Today I am at 21 days. I know I could do better but I am proud where I am and how disciplined I have been but I sure don't see the pounds dropping on the scale. I am taking pictures tonight to see what's up. For the amount I am working out and eating I should be losing at least 2 a week. I think I am around 5 now. But heh, I will take it. I will post the pics later if I can my stupid camera to work. All of you are such a huge source of power for me. I love it.

Everyone is doing so well...sorry I am going to log on later and comment on everyone - I just need to veg out for awhile and regroup. Work is very challenging right now in some ways and I just am exhausted. But I did want to say how important you are to me!! I don't think I could do this well on my own with no support.

HA HA, Burgund your on girl! I was 212 this morning, so my goal is 210 by Sunday. Bring it on!!!!!!!!!!!!! :jig:

Lindy - My gosh what is up with your co-worker? Whench! I mean there is brutal honesty and then there is rudness..... :devil: ...I say she is one rude person. I would also say she has issues, so she needs to 'bring you down' to satisfy her own 'issues.' You prove her wrong on ALL accounts!! Please!!

Maddiesmom - Sorry about the start date for your husband, that really doesn't seem right. Hopefully that are correct when indicating tomorrow. Your doing so tremendous with your workouts and Mr. Hott..:strong: .....keep going girl! I think your in the lead! ;-)

Neesy - Your are going to look soooo fantastic when you see your husband. He is going to be shocked! :cheers: I honestly feel by that time you will have such a handle on your eating it won't be a problem. Remember too, he will also be in shape, so I don't think either one of you will gain weight. You both will be too fit!

Staccie - I am so proud of your workouts. :wl: You have really turned your health around with workouts and eating healthy! Keep it up and know that we all deserve a day off for some relaxation..............Ha HA Ha bird poop? Sorry I shouldn't laugh, but ........Ha Ha Ha......it is kinda funny

Dance - I am so glad your friends let you know they could see the change in your physical appearance with your weightloss. :cp: I could see it in the photo's you showed us before. You have worked hard and deserve those complimentS! I bet they also noticed more confidence and energy too!

Well, after 8 days I get a day off tomorrow! Woo Hoo! I am excited just to be lazy, relax and do NOTHING........LOL. My feet hurt and I'm tired. I am sorry I wasnt' on here yesterday, but I was short on time and last night just too tired. I was happy when I weighed this morning and was down another pound. My goal is to be at 210 this Sunday, so hopefully I can do it. I doubt any workouts will take place, because I go back to work Friday and my feet hurt too bad to do any jogging. I am worried if I try, then I won't be able to walk at work the next day. Sooooo, I have to just limit my calories.

Any word from Tiff, or Basics? I haven't see them on FB, has anyone else?

Hello ladies!! I have a new home. It was absolute HE11 getting into it but I am here. I am now up to 164 again but tomorrow is my new day in a new city with all of you. **CHEER ME ON!**

I saw that every one has facebook. Will you add me? Amanda Owens in phoenix, AZ =) http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1187132349 Thanks and I have missed you all!!!

Woohoo - AJ's back in da house! Glad you survived the move and just think, no more snowed in days when it's too hard to get to the gym, right? We'll miss you here in the 303 but with year around sunshine, you'll be bikini ready in no time! You can do this!!

Staccie - tell us exactly what your eating plan is - I agree that with how good you've been, I'd expect to see more losses but I'm sure you'll see them soon. Are you counting calories, points? Tracking your food in a journal, online program?

mygrits - woo-hoo for the day off - what are you going to do with your time? Lots of catchup on house stuff or some playtime?

I have a big scary meeting this morning - wish me luck! The scale was hovering between 166 and 167 so I'm going to claim it.

AJ - Woo Hoo! Congratulations on the new home and new town! It is wonderful to see you on here again, and no concerns with the weight as you have endured alot the last month. You will the weight off, let us know your plan and goals....

Dance I hope your meeting went well this morning and wasn't too demanding. Congrautlations on your weight. You are so close to your goal!

Me, I am doing nothing today......LOL.......literally. Well, I will walk the dog, but for now he is still snoring on the floor next to me......LOL. I would love to workout, but I know I need to rest my feet and legs. I may to a load of laundry, but other than than I am staying off my feet. It sucks, but I have too, because my body hasn't gotten use to so many hours of standing and walking. Plus, back to work tomorrow. My weight is still down, but I want to be at 210 on Sunday.

Bye for now.

Mygrits- hoo-rah to a nothing day! lol...you so need a day of R&R. I would suggest a late night dip in the pool but man oh man has it been cold here lately. How is the job anyway? Any luck with Bubba, what about his business he was looking into?

Dance - yay for others noticing. Today I have gotten a **** of a lot of compliments, its weird, I have my hair tied back in a bun and EVERYONE has commented on how much weight I have lost. Its days like this where I think I need to wear this outfit and hair and makeup everyday, lol. OH and I SO agree with you not being able to see if your still the "chubby girl". Everytime I tell people my goal weightm they are like...your skinny now, are you nuts. And Im like...no Im not, Im still fat. Even though I know I look better and my clothes sizes say different, I still feel like the fat chick, sooo weird. PS DANCE - you and I are at the exact same weight now! I so need to keep up with my program. haha

AJ - yay and kudos on your new home! We will get you back on track girly but you need to stay afloat in the forum! haha....I know youve been busy. Glad to see you back in the swing of things.

Stacie - I saw your status on FB. Man oh man, you are not having a good couple days...sorry hun. :( BIG HUG! But Kudos for making it 21 days. I wish I was here on Sunday to see everyones weigh in, as Im sure you will have lost after this week.

Not too much to report on today, trying to wrap up everything at work and around the house so I come home to a nice clean house. I hopped on the scale today and am still hovering at 166-167, so if thats where I am on Saturday, so be it. Im ok with it. Ill check in later.

Hey chicks,

Well I burned my arse hard this morning in spin class. I am down 2 pounds. I think one of the reasons I am not losing is because of my depression medication. My food rates from 1400-1700 and it's high in protein and low in starchy carbs with basically no white sugar, pasta, bread or anything. But I can see some significant changes in my body. I am a bit disappointed because I lost weight really quickly last time but staying on my medication is important for a little while longer. So I'm at 5 pounds in three weeks :( I'm hoping that once my metabolism kicks in better it will average at least 2 a week. I am interested in knowing how many inches I have lost - feels like a few. So sigh...keep working hard! I'm only going to weigh in a few times a week because I find it demotivates me a bit.

Dance - I hope your meeting goes well!!!! Fingers crossed!!!

Mygrits - take it easy on your day off and let those footsies rest, elevate them up with a pillow and read a good book :) Congrats on the loss - I am jealous but very happy for you!!! You are obviously kicking butt when you are working! Yeah for 210 on Sunday!!

AJ - good to see you again and glad you will be with us - missed you! I hope everything starts settling down for you again.

Lindy - yeah I've had a few interesting days but I am glad that I am not indulging anymore. The cravings are minimal now and it's a godsend. I can't believe I have done for 3 weeks with no coke zero.

I have to run to a meeting but I will be back at lunch!! Hope everyone is having a great day!

S

Lindy - Since you fit into so much smaller sizes than I do at roughly the same height/weight, you must have a lot more muscle. That may affect your ending goal weight over time - you might reach your perfect size at a slightly higher weight because of all of those muscles, right?

Staccie - that's a major bummer with anti-depressants. I know some people have found that taking wellbutrin in addition to their SSRI anti-depressant or instead of it helps them with weight loss. Might be worth talking to your doc about.

My meeting went just fine and I'm heading out to work from home the rest of the day and sneak in a run at lunch as I was busy from 6am on this morning. Chat with you gals later...

Hey girls..I have been keeping the boys so much I am hardly home. Just wanted to check in. I will be back later to comment on everyones posts. I just had to tell you, I checked today and I have lost 10% of my body weight. THRILLED about that. Gotta get up and do D10L1 30ds. Moving on to level 2 tomorrow.

Burgundy- WOOT-WOOT! Congratulations on the 10% thats awesome! Keep up the good work girl, I think you have found your "zone" and are doing amazing. Just watch the scale drop.

Dance- its a possibility with the muscle, Im just not sure. I hate trying to measure my goal weight. I started at 130, then dropped it to 120, now Im like...maybe 140, I guess Ill know when I get there but its just so darn confusing and yes, I am obsessive with it and I wish I wasnt. You have to figure, I am wearing a 10 comfortably and an 8 in SOME clothes and Im 166, at 185, I was wearing a 12/14, so Im thinking for every 20 pounds I lose, I drop a size (or two), so if I really wanted to be a 4, that would put me at 130. GRRRR....sorry, just obsessing today, lol. I have most of my stuff done so I think Im going to go for a long run tonight.

Stacie- I am almost positive that its your medication. When I was on depression medication and birth control for that matter, I had an extra 7-8 pounds that I carried, when I went off that (at separate times), its was like I instantly loss that weight. HOWEVER...sometimes you just need it and its not worth it. Dont worry chica, you'll get there.

I almost forgot to tell you what happened---AGAIN. I decided to push myself at the gym and run 6 mph on the treadmill for 10 minutes. I got to 6 minutes and thought my heart was going to come out of my chest. Remember this snafu on the climber? What gives? When I get back from my trip Im going to schedule an appointment with my doctor. Just to make sure everything is on the up and up and so he can see that I have lost 50+ pounds (lets hope to keep it that way while on the cruise, lol).

Ok, going into a meeting, then I leave after. One more day till my trip--woo-hoo! Oh and I weigh in at work tomorrow, lol. She will regret this bet for sure; lol.

Dance- Thanks so much. I miss Denver though. I am delighted to have a gym in my building now and it is brand new. Opened this week so it so nice. Now I am going to use it... every day =)

Mygrits- Thank you. I am going to start my week with dailyplate and just focus on getting my cals back in check. Then add in cardio! cardio! cardio! tomorrow.

Lindy- Now that I have internet I can follow the forum. It was rough not to have access to anything online. I am actually really excited again. I lost my motivation before and now I am all in again! You can keep kicking my butt though so I stay in it =)

Stacie- Thanks. I missed you all too!

School shopping today for my hubby. Cool new salad restaurant that I am excited about. I really like our new apt. Its not home but its a good temp fix!

Also, I am in on the next challenge and I am still 100% in this one till the end but I have already purchased my girft card to amazon for whomever wins!! I am excited for all of you!

Lindy - until you get to your doctor, try not to push super super hard in your cardio (like run super fast). My sister had a similar issue years back where her heart went into that super high pace and if it's the same thing, it's really risky. You might ask your doc if you should wear a heart monitor for a week or so to track it - that's what my sis did. They ended up deciding her issue was a small but risky electrical malfunction in her heart and had to zap her heart (sounds worse than it was) to get the malfunction to stop. Anyway, I of course have no idea what your heart rate issue might be, but just in case, it's a good idea to be careful.

Burgundy - big giant :bravo: on 10% lost - that's a super big deal!!

aj- so nice to have you around again! That's great news on the gym in the bldg - you'll be back on track in no time.

staccie - just reread your post - so, are you down 2lbs this week? or since when? Either way, that's huge progress!! Do you keep a spreadsheet with your weekly weighins? I find it helps a bunch when I start getting frustrated that things aren't moving quickly - just seeing that downward trend week after week seems to calm me down and give me a bit of perspective. You are working like a demon and are still being successful in your weightloss efforts - girl, you rock!

Hey all,

Yeah I am down 2 since - a week and half ago. I am going to chat with my doctor to see if I can do something different while not sacrificing my happiness as I am sure those pills have helped me recenter myself - and all the endorphins from exercise too. But if not, well I will keep plugging away like a demon :devil: I have a ton of energy - almost too much - that I have trouble falling asleep at night. Strange.

Dance - thanks for the advice. I am going to start recording my weigh in's. I am not sure if I should weigh in daily or not and then show my doctor as a concern with everything I am doing and seeing so little. What do you think?

Burgandy - congrats on the 10% - that is a MAJOR accomplishment and I hope you high fived your shrinking arse!!! Or high fived your pooches, whatever is best for you :)

Lindy - you might be like me a bit - I get a lot of muscle. When I weighed around 190 I looked like I weighed 170 because of the muscle and tone. So for me, I'm aiming around 160 - OMG I have so many pounds to go lol. You will know when you get there - I am confident with that. It's ultimately about your body fat percentage and how you fill out a pair of jeans and a hot tank top :) (well that's my viewpoint anyway). I am so excited for your trip! And we are going to miss you huge!!! Please take pics!!!

AJ - sounds like you are doing well...glad you like your new place and that it has a gym - that will definitely help!

Today is definitely a better day! It's raining horribly but I am feeling pretty good and I am going to a class tonight as I didn't get my full workout in this morning. I really like classes and never thought that I would - it pushes me like a trainer does. And I feel awesome after, even if I have to put my bra on backwards because my arms are so sore lol.

Thanks for all the advice and comments - you girls rock!!!

Congrates Staccie 2 lbs is huge! You are doing awesome. I understand you might be at a slower pace due to medication, or hey, it might be hormonal too??? Sometimes an imbalance can cause slow weightloss, where an Endocrinologist can do a hormone check to see. Just a thought.

Does anyone have the website Lindy recommended the other day? I looked back on all our pages and couldn't find her comment. I appreciate it.

Today has been lazy, lazy, lazy but my feet feel good........lol. I have eaten too, but know tomorrow I am back running, so I am not too concerned with it. I will check in shortly.

Aargh - I'm having one of those starving days! You know, where you're still starving no matter what you eat. Bummer!

Stacie- Congrats on the weight loss!!! And I am glad you found a class that you like. I love classes.

Sandy- I hope you enjoyed your lazy day.

Dancer- I hate those days. I only have them every once in a while but they are just awful! So sorry.

Momof5-that is great, you are doing so well.

Maddiesmom-I want a treadmill to be able to run this winter. You are doing great with your workouts, with and without your trainer.

Lindy-let us know if you lose tomorrow if you have a chance. You have to prove that coworker wrong. One more day. You will have so much fun. Just stay on top of your game while you are gone. Make that dr appt. when you get back so you can figure out what is going on.

Dance-you are right, we are all doing so well, some better than others. But we are all making progress. Its great to have this support system. I couldnt do it without you girls. It so great that people are noticing all your hard work. 160 here you come.

Neesy-I bet when you and your husband are together again you wont even want those snacks.

Staccie-how are you feeling now? Still sore? you are still doing great losing 2 lbs in a week. Hopefully you can talk to your doc about your meds and get something worked out if that is what is slowing your weightloss down.

Mygrits-my goal is 210 too by Sunday. Didnt make it there yesterday. We are neck in neck. We can be at 210 together. Glad you got a day of relaxation. I believe the website was nutrimirror.com

AJ-so glad you are back and getting back on track. Moving is always stressful. I want to move but just thinking about packing.....uuggghhh.

Thank you for all the kind words. I was so happy when I saw 10% was gone. I didnt do anything today. I DID do day 10 though. I had the boys what seems like all week. I am beginning to feel like their mom, I am surprised I didnt hear from her tonight wanting me to watch them. It was nice to be home. We were thinking about going to have Mexican food tomorrow, but I am trying to talk myself out of it. I have been craving it so bad, but dont want to gain anything. Gotta get to 210, cant let mygrits pass me. I was still at 211 today. Hopefully I can make it down a lb by tomorrow. Got a bunch of movies, think I will put one in and probably fall asleep. Have a great night everyone.

Well I wasn't going to work out tonight because I thought working out twice a day is too much but I was sitting here and had so much energy, I thought what the ****. The class wasn't great though. It was some kind of kickboxing cardio aerobics thing and I don't enjoy those but the other ones are good so I will keep it up. If I don't see another drop by the weekend, I will make a doctors appointment...thanks for all the advice. Definitely something going on there! 5 pounds in three weeks when first starting out is unusual.

Burgandy and mygrits - you got a good one going on...keep pushing it :) woo hah for you both!!! Looking forward to seeing the results on Sunday!

Dance - I had one of those days too - I even went to the vending machine but only had a fibre bar - I'm so amazed I don't make those choices anymore!! I think that's another reason I worked out so I didn't snack all night long!!! I'm starting to record my weight like you said and my exercise and eating so if things don't change I can show my doctor and get some help.
Thanks so much for that.

AJ - I never think I've said this before but you are sooo pretty, everytime I see your Avatar I'm like - awww!! And I'm adding you on facebook right now :)

Gotta get to bed - have a busy, busy day tomorrow. Yeah for the weekend getting here though!!!

Hey girls-

Well, today is my last day for the next week :( - I will really miss you all soooo much.

Burgundy - step away from the Mexican! Haha...you are doing so good, and weigh in is only 2 days away and yes, Mexican will cling to you. If you must, do something light to subside the craving.

Dance- dying to know. How did you hold up yesterday with the food cravings?

Stacie- If you do end up scheduling a doctors appointment, Id be interested to see what he says. Maybe the dosage can be adjusted?

Anyway, I am going on 5 hours of sleep but because I know Im on vaca as of 3 pm today, Im in a great mood and not even tired. I even managed to wake up with pep in my step to do my body works class AND I did 12 minutes on the treadmill at 5.5 speed and a 5 incline with no problems...yay me. Ok, Ill check in before I head out. Hope everyone is having a skinny day. :)

Staccie- Thank you so so much! That was SO nice to wake up to!!!!

Burgundy- You can do it!! I believe!

Well ladies... I did great yesterday. Going to do well today. I have a job interview. My husband starts school today so its a big day. I haven't "really" worked in a year so I am super nervous and we need it sooooooo bad!! Wish me luck. Here I go =)

Lindy - have a wonderful time and take lots of pictures! we'll miss you around here - but will look forward to a full report when you get back.

I ended up doing passably yesterday despite the major hunger attack. I went for a walk with a friend in the evening and on the way back stopped at a hole-in-the-wall chinese take-out place that I've never tried before and got a spicy chicken and veggies dish with brown rice. Yum! It's really close to my house and I have a feeling it's going to become a regular fallback when I don't feel like cooking.

Cleaning ladies came this morning and since they're fairly disruptive to getting any work work done, I decided to start my organizing kick and organized all of the shoes in my closet and the cabinets and two of the drawers in the bathroom while they were here. Still more to do there but it does seem to have an interesting effect on your outlook - things seem more manageable, I guess.

Am planning on a late morning run and have my second botox appointment this afternoon (still makes me a little nervous but the results were too good to stop doing it). And with all of that going on, still have to review a bunch of budgets by the end of the day - wish me luck!

My bf was moody this week but seems to have bounced back and we're having dinner tonight - maybe I'll convince him to go for an after dinner walk to burn a few more calories.

Staccie - good for you, you workout queen! And totally agree that AJ is gorgeous!

mygrits and burgundy - keeping my fingers crossed for you guys to make it to 210 this weekend!!!

AJ - just saw your post - sending ***giant waves of interview luck*** your direction!

Dancer- THANK YOU!!! They decided to keep me there for 2 hours to try the position. Its simple but what ever. I just need work for 8 months. They will call me Tuesday to let me know. OMG I NEED THIS! =)

Slow today! Where is every one? How is the day going for every one???

aj - that's great - keep us posted! With Lindy heading out and mygrits working at the healthfood store and Tifftiff MIA, it may be a little quiet this weekend.

You, me, Staccie, Maddiesmom and Burgundy will have to keep things rolling!

Okay, ladies - what are people doing this weekend to help get to their 11/1 goal? I'm going to sneak in that extra walk tonight on top of my usual run and tomorrow will run again and maybe add some rollerblading in the late afternoon. And hopefully a hike on Sunday will kick my butt (or at least shrink it a bit). 4 weeks left until our final weigh-in (of this challenge at least)! I'm hoping to lose 6lbs in that time. Girls - we can do this!

What challenge are you all doing together? I love that idea! The only thing like that i have been a part of onhere sort of fell apart. Another chick PM'd me about the C25K program and offered to support one another as we did it. Then she fell off the face of the earth (or at least off of this forum :( )

Tell me more :)

Someone earlier asked what I had been doing toloss the weight and I don't think I ever responded. I am a doula and I was at a birth two days and am still getting caught up :lol:

I am doing a program called Herbal Magic that involves gives me a food sort of plan to follow (kind of. It tells you serving allowances that you must eat everyday. Right now, for instance, I eat 2 servings of protein, 2 starches, 2 fruits, 3 veggies, 2 fats, 1 dairy, andone "Free"). Also minimum 8 cups of water a day.

I also started running. First I did the Couch to 5K program and now that I am finished that, I just run. I am still very slow but I try to run 10 miles a week in 3 or 4 runs.

I have five children (as my name implies) and one cat. That's about all from me! I JUST hit Onderland this week so I am super excited about that.

Thanks for the welcome chicks! I look forward to getting to know you all a bit more and maybe join in your next challenge :)

I am sooooo exhausted. Been doing good on my diet, but lacking in exercise. I have worked 14hrs each day I worked.. non-stop no breaks. So.. I did run around a lot and got my adrenaline going especially in critical situations.. so maybe that helps. who knows. going to bed now.. will catch up tomorrow. bye!

Hi Ladies, yep, I've been MIA again. This week has been so crazy. I'm in charge of 20 country managers coming to the US for 3 days of training, so I'm doing the logistics of it and had another training going on at the same time, so I had lots of running around to do.

I didn't work out Tues, Wed, or Thurs due to late work nights and just generally being exhausted. I really didn't want to go today either, but I got off of work early and went to the gym. Pushed myself to run 1.5 miles straight, which I don't think I've ever done, so go me! :carrot: I was only going to do a mile, but thought, "Wouldn't it be great to tell the girls I made it 1.5?" So, I did it, and now I'm telling you! :)

Dance: This weekend, I am working out with Hott trainer tomorrow morning and then I have a b-day party to go to. Luckily for me, they usually don't have a variety of food that I eat, and they are across the street so I can sneak home and eat lunch rather than eating the fatty food.

Mom0f5: We have a challenge going on from 8/1 - 11/1 and whomever loses the largest percent of body weight, gets a $10 amazon gift card from the other ladies in the challenge. IT keeps us motivated, so it's working!

Neesy: Sorry you've been so busy with work, I'm sure with all the running around you're doing, you are definitely getting a workout. Hope you are still finding time to sit down and eat.

AJ: Good luck with the job!! I think the fact that you were there so long shows that they are interested in you. The same thing happened to me at my current job. Day 1: 2 hour interview. A week later, I was there for over 2-1/2 hours. I got the job a week later, so I hope the same thing happens for you!

Burgundy: Thanks for the compliment. It's taken me a long time to get off my butt and work out. I'm not a fan of it, but I guess it's a necessary evil! :devil:

Sandy: Congrats on the 5 pounds. I know it's frustrating, but like you said, keep a journal of your food intake and your exercise and talk to your doc about it. Good luck!

So, I was talking to my boss the other day and she saw my id picture and said "wow, you have really lost weight!" She said that you could totally see a difference. Well, I guess later on she talked to a mutual friend of ours and asked her how much weight I've lost. Anitra told her and my boss was amazed and telling her how dedicated I was to losing weight, bringing my lunch, etc. etc. ANitra thinks my boss told her, so she would tell me, since it could be akward for her to bring it up. SO, people are starting to notice, which is getting me motivated again.

I have to say, my motivation was down this week, mostly due to lack of sleep and too much work. I had deep dish pizza on Tuesday (it was veggie and I had 2 pieces) and then had Jason's deli yesterday, I had a panini, but I looked it up and it was 800 calories! Holy cow! And it was listed as "healthy." Yea, sure it is. I did work out on Monday, pushed myself today and going tomorrow, so that's still 3 times in a week, so not too horrible I guess.

Anyways, this post is long, so I will shut up now! Talk to you chicks later!!

Hi ladies!

I had a rocking busy day...and finally home 12 hours later and going to watch a movie and get ready for a nice weekend. I didn't do great eating today - I had some chocolate, pasta for lunch and then an ok dinner. However, I didn't do as bad as I used to and I am still making better choices. Part of the reason is because I ran out of food and didn't get anything last night and that is bad! Today I am resting from the gym - very sore.

This weekend, not too much planned other than some good workouts, reading and that's about it. I had so much interaction at work this week I need some quiet time alone. I am going to start tracking my weight each day and although I have been eating well, I need to track it more - because maybe my estimate of calories is off and I am eating too much or not enough for the amount of time I am working out. I will exhaust those options first before heading to my doctor. I want to also measure myself this weekend as I am convinced I am loosing inches. My pants that I tried on two weeks ago actually go up and I can fit two fingers in the waistband, prior to that, I had to really suck and they were tight - so that is really positive.

Lindy is gone on her vacation...so lucky!!!

Dance - I wasn't a part of this challenge but my goal is to get down to 15 pounds lost by Halloween - it was 25 but it's obvious that wasn't a realistic goal. So that means I have to lose 10 pounds this month....I hope I can do it!!! Or at least fit into those pants comfortably! Your workout plans sound awesome this weekend...soon you will be in the 150's....woo hoo!

AJ - thanks for the add on FB!! I just noticed on my blackberry! And good luck with the call back for Tuesday!!! Fingers are crossed for you!!

mygrits...hope your first day back after resting your footsies is going good!!

Maddiesmom - I hear you on the crazy stuff!!! And I can relate and I don't have a family at home!!! Congrats on the mile.5 too!! That's awesome :woohoo: :celebrate: And I am glad you are getting noticed...that is awesome for motivation - it sure makes it feel worth it!!!

Neesy - get some good rest!!!!

Momof5: impressive loss and program!! And considering the size of your family - it's even more impressive that you are so dedicated to yourself and to them! Glad to have you on here and hope to get to know you better!

Well I am off to watch a movie...will check in tomorrow...and really hoping to see a loss on Sunday....please please!

Vicky- YAY!!! Congrats on your work out. That is awesome.

Neesy- I am so sorry things are so crazy busy. I am sure your heart rate has been high enough to classify it as cardio =)

Staccie- Yeah... adding you was back breaking work... lol. j/k. I am glad you have rationed your candy for the weekend =)

staccie - It was a real eye opener for me to track calories using thedailyplate website - are you using a real tracker or are you swagging it in a journal? You might find it interesting to use the online tracking tools if you haven't tried them. Since it does all the estimating for you, it's less work. Big woohoo on your pants fitting - isn't that the best?

maddiesmom - wow, you are a busy girl! Good plan on the b-day party - I like that approach!

neesy - all that running around must be burning calories like crazy - good for you!!

momof5k - If you'd like to keep us old-timers company on this challenge (even if you aren't an *official* participant), pick a weight goal for 11/1 and join us in tracking weekly progress, etc! I'm fairly sure we'll do another one of some kind after 11/1 so stick around ;) It's kind of unsettling when your online buddies just up and disappear, isn't it? I guess we shouldn't be surprised but it always worries me just the same.

So, did pretty well yesterday, getting in the extra walk and having fairly healthy chinese food for dinner but I did steal some of my bf's sweet-tarts which wasn't the best plan ever - oh well ;) Once it warms up a bit here I'm heading out for a run then am going to catch up on office stuff -such fun! Maybe a little jeans shopping later - I need some cute ones to take on our trip next weekend. What are you all up to today?

Staccie-you are doing great, even when you want to talk yourself out of exercise you still do it. It is probably like you think, you are losing more inches but not as many lbs. I am sure you will see a big drop soon if you reassess. Good luck

Lindy-have a great time(you probably already are). Remember 3 lbs, you have to win your challenge at work. Great job on the treadmill.

AJ-good luck with the interviews. Let us know how they go.

Dance-mmmmm, chinese. I love it. I too am trying to get organized. Almost finished with the kitchen, gonna do one room at a time until it is done. I am gonna do crunches with an ab lounger today. Hopefully I can get a walk in too.

momof5-I want to do the C25K but I never get started on it. I do add running into my walks now so I am basically doing it, I guess. It will too cold out in MI soon to be out there plus the dreaded snow.

Neesy-I am sure you burned major calories at work. Keeping your diet on point helps too.

maddiesmom-I love to think of all you girls too when I am working out and push myself just a little more. You are amazing. So proud of you. Thats amazing that your boss and I know others are noticing your weight loss. So exciting.

I have to work today, but its only one of the boys so it will be an easy day. Plus it will only be for 5 or 6 hours. I already did day 12 of 30ds/level 2 this morning. Got my hubbies dinner cooked, showered, now ready to go at 1. I am gonna use the boys moms ab lounger and run around the basement with him. I bought some more workout dvds. They are by George Foreman. Havent tried them yet, they are for walking. One is walk and box and the other is circuit walk. I am probably gonna try one tonight or tomorrow. I was hovering between 211 and 212 this morning and am claiming it as 211, but I really want to be at 210 tomorrow. Sandy may beat me there. I can do it though. Just gonna be strict with eating today and stay at 1200. I have only had a piece of toast today with weight watchers cream cheese, so that was only 140 calories. Having a healthy choice for lunch, a pear for snack, not sure on dinner yet. Have plenty of stuff in the freezer, I will decide before I leave.

I hope everyone is having an amazing Saturday. I will be back tonight to see how everyone is.

OH I almost forgot. I did a little shopping yesterday at Old navy and bought 2 shirts, both large(thats 5 shirts now that I bought that are L and not XL) Its still so exciting. Just had to share. Before at old navy I was buying XL and XXL

Burgundy - you are doing so great! Congrats on 211 and on the 'L' shirts - wooohooo!

Burgandy - :woohoo: on the large shirts - that's so amazing! I think I would fit a large shirt if it wasn't for my rather large 'girlfriends' that hang out on my chest. Even when I lose weight, they stay the size of an overgrown cantalope...lol. So button up shirts are never a good idea unless I wear the first three buttons open with a tank top underneath. Which ultimately...makes them look much bigger.

Dance - thanks for the suggestion about the on-line tracking - I am going to get on that tonight. Perhaps my 'estimates' are off and now that I have gone 21 days with changing some habits, I can integrate a bit more into this. What a relief it was last night to give myself options to choose something bad and all I did was a box of smarties. It's like those things, although they look good was rejected by my mind and body - which I have to admit was never an option before. The 'fight' with food or so I would call it, is becoming less of a fight and more of an annoyance. Good luck with finding a cute pair of jeans...I can't wait until that day when I can wear a pair and feel really confident in them. Make sure you check out your booty in the mirror and give yourself a big smile!

AJ - fingers and toes are crossed for your job hunt!! I bet that smile does you wonders :) How are things shaping up with your eating and working out, are you finding yourself a little more settled yet?

Well, I must admit - it is 1130am and I am still in my pj's in bed. I fell asleep a bit later and decided that I was going to relax this morning. I slept until about 10 - and then was reading and dozing. I have to learn not to feel guilty. I deserve this after a long and stressful week. But my tummy is grumbling and aching to get to the gym as I didn't go yesterday. I am aiming to run a full mile today without stopping on the treadmill....so I'm getting up right away and heading out to get that done, relax in the hottub for a bit, then make my way to pick up some groceries since I am lacking badly at the moment. Tonight I am going to check out those sites that Dance recommended and continue working on my job hunting guide. Because I have to start looking here in a few months. I'm not looking forward to that. But in a way I am a bit because I am ready to start the next chapter of my life which doesn't entail living downtown in a huge city and working 80 hours a week. I would consider the next chapter finding a stable job with opportunity for growth, moving into a quiet residential area, meeting some new people, maybe even a guy :) and less experiencing less adrenaline in my life. The thought of that makes me feel positive. I'm glad I did this career opportunity of a lifetime but it's not for me long-term - at least I don't think :) I think one of the hardest things will be to not focus on how amazing the event was and forget everything leading up to it...my sister has promised to remind me of that.

Anyway I am babbling and clearly procrastinating about working out, so off I go. Hope everyone is having a good Saturday...I will check in later...and fingers crossed that I see some movement on the scale tomorrow...

Dancer- I LOVE dailyplate! It took the work out of counting for me. Its sad that a few of US have vanished. Tiff is so loved =( Hope its nothing and they will be back!

Burgundy- YAY!! I love that feeling. Its the best when the xl is too big!!!

Staccie- I am doing okay with food and great with working out. I am climbing the stairs here. Swimming (seeing as its a million degrees here) and going to the gym today. =) I am following you right now though and I have cleaned, cooked and bathed so I am now back in pj's and on the couch with two dogs and 4 blankets. lol. Saturdays....

I am cooking dinner for my sick hubby and I am excited about soup I can eat. Also, my gym opens today so I am headed that way now!! I am excited. I set cardio goals for myself along with Dancers weight goal chart. I am so glad you are all doing so well!!

Hahaha! Staccie- I just read the top of your post to Burgundy. I laughed out loud. I am the same way and I am that way at 130. Its just funny to hear someone else say it =)

Hahaha! Staccie- I just read the top of your post to Burgundy. I laughed out loud. I am the same way and I am that way at 130. Its just funny to hear someone else say it =)

Oh my...not I! It is shocking how much my girls have shrunk. I just got fitted for new bras last week and went from a J (in the spring) to a C cup :yikes: Five babies, close to ten years of breastfeeding, and a seventy pound weight loss does quite a number on them. :lol:

So I got the flu shot yesterday. Mandatory by work. Last year, I got really sick afterward. .. So I was really dreading it. I slept like 18hrs last night/today! I just woke up at 3:00.. I feel so lethargic and achy. Hopefully I don't get worse. Anyway, nothing new going on. I was gonna go to the gym today but I just do not feel up for it. I'm gonna try and clean my house since I've been putting it off. I think I will clean , then take a break, then clean, take a break.. haha Only 2.5 weeks til I see my DH. I can definitely tell a difference in my body. But I really wanted to get in the 180s. At least 189! So.. I'm gonna kick my butt in gear for the next 2 weeks. I don't think I will have much of a loss tomorrow. But I'm gonna chalk that up to TOM. I just feel bloated and feel like I've been retaining water. So.. we'll see.

Mom- I would give anything to be a large C! That sounds great to me. I am sorry that you are unhappy with it though. Maybe when I have a child I can get bigger... then smaller! <3

Neesy- I am so sorry you are feeling icky. I am the same way. Most years that I get the shot, I get sick and vice versa. There is literally nothing worse than feeling gross and having to clean. Bad day! Take a few minutes and think of a way to pamper yourself. Take a long bath or I love to watch movies online with a glass of wine. Just make time for you!

ajowens: Not really unhappy...just surprised :) Amazing what a difference six months can make!

I would love to lose my 'friends' - but I'm probably going to need to have some work done on them...I don't want them to look like golfballs in a sock. I don't like them now, I can't imagine I will with 80 or so pounds gone.

I had a really good workout...lots of cardio. I am hiking the famous grouse grind here tomorrow - it's like 2800 stairs - eek! For now, I am down 5 pounds, almost six according to today. I weigh in again on Monday morning as I only use the scale at the gym and I am hiking tomorrow. Also bought some good food and going to explore counting calories better.

Neesy - I got so sick from the flu shot, I never had it again - but if it's mandatory I suppose there is not much you can do...hope you get the rest you deserve today!

AJ - sounds like an awesome day to me!!! My covers are calling my name today...hope your new gym is great too!! Can't wait to hear about it.

Mom - I'm still really impressed with everything you've already done and clearl going to keep on doing especially with you busy family and life...impressive! And I am counting down until I lose some of my boobs..

And on the subject of boobs, the other one is 'boob buddies' - you know that fat that is between your armpit and boobs? I hate mine...isn't it bad enough that we already have one set but then another one to worry about?! Incline chest flyes help though - I am working on them...

I tried to run a mile today...I just don't like it. So what I did was interval training, run for 2 min, walk fast for 2 min and I got a really kick *** workout. I think I will do that a few times a week. I watched gossip girl while I did it - love having tv's on our cardio machines at my gym - and mini fans. It's awesome!

Well I hope everyone is ticking along at a good pace!! I'm laying low tonight and looking forward to it!!

So I have a dilemma.

I am registered for a 5K tomorrow and just found out that everyone in my group in planning to walk, not run :( Bummer. I have actually been planning to run this one (my first 5K EVER!!) but this whole Run for the Cure thing was my idea because there is a woman in our circle battling breast cancer so we are running in her honor. This sort of means it feels weird to consider ditching my group in order to RUN rather than walk.

On the other hand, it feels llike sort of a cop out to walk rather than run.

Sigh. Not sure what I should do. Opinions?

I am sort of thinking I should walk with my team and find another 5K to run soon. Am I taking the easy way out?

Hmmm. Mom- I would run. I don't think people will feel ditched. I think they will admire you for working up to it.

dancer: Yes, it sucks when people disappear. I worry and wonder. Sigh oh well. Stuff happens to us all and for some the on-line stuff is the easiest thing to let go.

burgundy: i am a huge proponent of the C25K program as I am SO not a runner. If I can do it, anyone can!!

ajowens: You think? Part of me feels like I should walk with my friend with breast cancer...to show "official" support. Part of me feels like I may be using this as an easy way out. I don't know.

Do you have a sign with her name or a shirt with her picture. You would be running in her honor. No one else put that much effort into it. You are giving it your all for her. I just walked the alzheimers walk in Denver 5k and I wish I had run. Walking it was like walking through walmart. It was not satisfying. And I think she would be flattered if you said. I trained to run this in your name but every one else is walking. Do you mind if I run??.... =)

Momof5: I agree with AJ...let your friend know that you trained to run this 5K and see if she would mind you running...I'm sure the fact that you trained "for her" would be a huge honor for her.

AJ: How was the gym? Glad you are settling in to your new home.

Neesy: Glad you got some rest...you deserved it after your hectic schedule. Good luck getting to the 180's...I know you can do it! Kick butt this week at the gym!

Staccie: I laughed at the golfball in the sock comment. :) It's strange, I've lost almost 50 pounds (wow...50!) and my chest is the exact same size. I'm sure my hubby is thrilled, but I'm kinda surprised actually. It's not exactly easy to run when your chest is bigger. Plus, look on the bright side, at least you have side boobs by your armpit rather than "back boobs." Have fun on your hike.

Well, I had a good day. I went and worked out with Hott trainer, who is soooo funny. He makes me laugh through my workouts and he gives crap as much as he takes it, so it works for us. The hour goes by really fast. Plus, he really pushes me and I'm so competitive, that when he gives me something harder to do, I push as hard as I can to do it.

Then, went to a b-day party for our neighbor across the street and she said "wow, you are looking slim." Then she said, not that you looked horrible before, but the weight is really coming off of you. Then, I was outside with the kids and her husband said to me "wow Vicky, how much weight have you lost?" I told him and he said "you can totally tell. That's awesome." So, I had a good day. Then I came home and ate chinese! :( Oh well, my splurge.

I think I'm coming down with a cold, but I am refusing my body to slow down and get sick. I have way too much to do at work and I don't have the luxury of getting sick. I have no one to back me up at work, and we have a lot of training classes coming up, so I can't be out of the office. Lucky me!

Well, Lindy is probably basking in the sun while I'm in 40 degree weather with rain. I'll be back tomorrow to weigh in.

Mom - I totally agree with the other ladies on here - taking the steps you have to improve your health is something to be very proud of and showing that and running in her honor I think is very admirable. Your friends will be supportive and maybe it will instill some motivation and/or confidence in them too to run the next one. Just think how great you will feel after running it for such a great cause. You've come so far and it sounds like this is something you were really planning and looking forward to - good luck regardless and high fives for doing the run in honor of someone special.

Vicky - your trainer sounds so awesome...that's hard to find so lap it up while you have him!! The most important part is when you are done, you are going to know all the ways to breathe, move, posture body and combinations of exercises best for you...it was the best money I ever spent on myself - and that's saying something considering my brutal collection of designer purses :) And the compliments from people - how awesome too - it's so great when people recognize the efforts. You never know how many of those people are inspired by you!!

Well I had a boring night and didn't do anything I wanted to...I did watch the Bodyguard...bad hair and clothes but the movie is still awesome. I'm not going on the hike tomorrow...I got an email that they are not sure if the trail will be open due to some slides...so I guess it's another great day at the gym. More laundry, cooking, preparing my meal and weekly plan - woo hoo so exciting!! Next weekend I'm going to the mountains so I won't feel too much like a introvert!! I just get so much social interaction at work that sometimes on the weekends I like to just be quiet :)

Hope everyone had a good day and will chat with you tomorrow!!!

Staccie-you are hilarious, I myself dont have that problem with the girls, mine are just right. I sure hope they dont end up shrinking. 2800 stairs is major.

AJ-did you enjoy the gym. There is a SMALL one her that opens sometime this month. I am gonna join.

Neesy-hope you got rest and are feeling better.

momof5-I think you should do what everyone is saying, tell your friend you trained to run and see if she is ok with it. I am sure she would be.

Maddiesmom-so fun when people notice your hard work. Sounds like you and the trainer make your workouts fun and not too grueling. Keeping my fingers crossed that you dont get sick.

I am kinda disappointed today. The scale said 211.8 today. I am still claiming that as 211, but I was so hoping for 210. I guess Sandy is ahead of me now, with all the walking and running around, she is sure to be at 210. I dont know why but it seems my weight loss has slowed down since I started 30ds. Lindy said she gained when she did it. I was consistently losing 3 lbs every 12 days since the start of our challenge and not its been 12 days and I have barely lose 2 lbs. I am frustrated.

Plans are to stay home today and keep cleaning and organizing my house. Do have to run to my SILs and husbands aunts houses for a minute sometime later today.

I am debating whether or not to keep going with 30ds. Its a great workout and I really sweat but why am I not dropping more weight. My sister has lost 6 lbs since we started. I have been doing good with eating. Trying to stay around 1200, is that enough?? Help, advice?

I will check in later

Rayne-Don't be dissappointed. You are doing awesome!

So. I lost 2lbs since last sunday putting me at 192.... 24 total since the start of this challenge & since hubby left! I'm 1 pound away from being 50lbs down total. That is crazy to me. I cannot believe I was 50lbs heavier than I am right now. Getting ready to go to a baby shower at a pizza place! I'll be good. Plus hopefully I'll wow some people I haven't seen in a while. That's always fun. haha

Talk to you later!

Rayne- I know you will lose. Maybe it is just an off week. Any extra salt this week? I think 1200 every single day sounds too low. Depending on cycling you should be between 1300-1600 at all times during weight loss. Too little can bit you in the a$$ too. =( And I still haven't gone. I am all bark and no bite. I got sick.

NEESY-!!!! I am so happy for you! Thats nuts.:carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot: Its a carrot party for you!!!

I am down 2 but it is prob mostly water. I am @ 162. I am sick as a dog so its soup and water for me today. My husband gave be his coodies. effff! I am going to go walk around the beer festival today in the stupid 95 degree heat. Hope that does me some good. Good luck today with the weight loss ladies!

Hi chickadees,

Well because I couldn't hike, I did this 90 min bootcamp class. It was 30 min Spin, 30 min stations and 30 min Abs and weights - HOLY POOP!!! It was crazy! I was sweating and breathing so hard that I thought my head was going to explode. But I think I did pretty good considering everyone in there was all skinny and stuff!! It was great though - I'm not always going to be the biggest one down the road and I didn't even feel that self conscious - if anything it pushed me harder to prove that just because I'm big doesn't mean I'm really lazy and out of shape. I'm sure no one cared or thought that anyway but it makes me feel better to think it. I came home and had a great lunch and now I am going for a walk down to the beach - it's gorgeous out today and I am not sure how much longer that is going to last!

Rayne - don't quit the workouts!!! But I definitely agree with AJ, I think your calories are too low and you are burning quite a bit during that workout. If you don't eat enough your metabolism slows down and hangs on to the fat more than ever. Plus, you're probably retaining a bit of water and gaining some muscle. I hear you on the frustration, I've only lost almost 6 pounds in about 30 days and considering what I am doing it's horrible, but I am losing inches - have you thought and/or tested that out? I bet you are as well. But we are here for you! Try upping your calories a bit and taking a day off for your muscles to repair themselves. I know that if I workout later in the evening and then weigh myself in the morning I usually always weigh more.

Neesy - that is so awesome about the 50 pounds!!! You should be really proud of yourself! You are consistently losing and haven't even reached a plateau yet - that means that you are shocking your body all the time. Lucky girl and you deserve it!!!

AJ - sorry about the coodies...that sucks. Sweating it out and getting some sun may definitely help. I love Arizona...but the heat is a bit much at times - long term. And the scorpions!!! I used to go down there at least 3 times a year when my mom was a snowbird...unfortunately she isnt' anymore and I miss it! I love cactus and all that stuff too. Definitely a change from where you are from though!!

Well I got pooped on again yesterday - I swear to god, there is a seagull following me around - that's twice this week and six times since I moved here. I don't know what is up with that. This time it just got on my arm, but STILL!!!! It's so gross. I don't know if I can ever wear that shirt again!!!! Everyone says it's lucky but I have yet to reap those benefits!

Going to the doctor on Tuesday to talk about my medication and see if I can try something else and/or a different dose so this struggle to lose weight becomes less. I know I will keep plugging along but if I can find a way to balance both my mental and physical health I am willing to give it a shot - especially before the Olympics come and I need all the mental health stability I can get :)

Will check in later to see how everyone else is shaping up. I hope to see a change on the scale on Wednesday morning...at least down 1 from today...I think I might have lost one just from bootcamp this morning!!! A month ago I wouldn't have ever though that I would do that - I have to give myself more credit!

Well i went to the baby shower today. I was good on the diet front.. well... i had a small salad (no cheese, fat free dressing) and a bowl of soup. THEN..................I got a phone call from my husband. Afterward, I started crying uncontrollably. I am so embarassed. I cried in front of everyone. I ate a piece of cake. I felt like I needed it. haha. Then I went home to cry some more. I cannot believe I did that. I looked like a hot mess. On a good note, my sister in law.. who hasn't seen me since my husband's farewell party in august.. said I look super skinny and said it looked like i lost a lot... without me saying anything about my diet. So.. that was good. I only have a little over 2 weeks to go.. I can do this. I can do this.

Neesy: I wouldn't worry about crying in front of everyone...I'm sure they understand how hard it is for you being away from your hubby for so long. And you did deserve that piece of cake. Congrats on getting the compliments, those are always a mood booster!

Well, I didn't go to the gym today, I'm sore from Hott trainer yesterday, so I'm going tomorrow. Eating has been ok. I'm ravenous again, so I'm trying to curb that. What I do now is buy one of those roasted chix at the grocery store, strip the meat off of it, and then if I'm hungry, I go ahead and have a small portion...lean protein and it fills me up, so not too shabby.

I'm only down 1 pound this week, but not surprised after the week I've had. So, gotta work harder this week. I'm into the 220's though! That's exciting. Less than 30 to go to get to Onederland.

Hope everyone else is doing well. Have a great night!

Neesy-2 lbs is great, 50 lbs is even greater. I wouldnt worry about crying in front of everyone. You have reason to. You will work that cake off. The next 14 days will go by fast for you and you get to see your hubby, so excited for you. I was away from my hubby for 2 weeks and couldnt stand it, so I kinda know how you feel but not to the same degree.

Aj-I think I am going to up my calories this week and see where that gets me. 2 lbs is awesome. Hope you get to feeling better soon and can get to the gym.

Staccie-I am not going to quit. I want to do the full 30 days. I have to challenge myself and just do it. You class sounds killer. You are doing great. Man those seagulls are after you. They are everywhere here too. I live by Lake Huron, but I have never been pooped on(saying that I probably will be tomorrow, lol) Good luck at the dr. Hope you get it worked out.

maddiesmom-you are consistently losing and down 5 lbs away from your halfway mark. You deserved that day off. I need to start doing that with the chicken again. I used to do it but havent lately. 220's woohoo, you are gonna pass me by soon.

Well, I did not do well at all today. I let myself have a splurge day. Bad idea. my stomach feels horrible now. I had KFC for lunch and my SIL made us soup for dinner with indian bread. THEN I had chocolate ice cream. I am back to plan tomorrow.

Where are Dance and Sandy??? Its weigh in day.

Neesy: Aren't those compliments from people who don't know about your diet just the BEST! That was when I knew this was "for real". Congrats!

Burgundy: Don't worry about your splurge...you know how it feels to eat the stuff that's bad for you, so I know you're back to your plan tomorrow. I find that when I eat the "bad" food, I feel like crap, so I really don't want it anymore.

Also, good job on your 30DS. I'm glad to hear that you're not giving up. The scale may not be going down just yet, but have you measured yourself to see if you are down inches? That helps me through when the scale isn't moving as fast as I'd like.

Staccie: Great job on the class! I don't think I would have the stamina to do it. I mean, I work out 3-4 times per week, but haven't attended a class yet. Maybe when I'm down to onederland I won't feel like such a heffer and I'll give it a try. Can't believe you got hit again by the birds...statistically, I'm sure that's close to impossible.

Well, I have now slimmed out of all my clothes. Now usually I wouldn't mind buying new clothes, but I have to wear suits to work, and man, those things are expensive. My hubby laughs that I'm upset I can't fit into my "fat clothes" but I can't see spending a lot on suits to do it all again in a couple of months. Quite frustrating, but I know you ladies would understand.

Anyways, have a great night ladies. Another week of losing is in store for us all!!

Hi Ladies,

Proud to say that I did not have any interaction with seagulls today! Vicky - I know - it's crazy heh - but things seem to happen to me more than anyone else these. I'm like a magnet for birds, clowns and everything else I am fearful of :)

Vicky - I KNOW exactly what you are saying...its frustrating to wear the fat clothes because you no longer want to be in them and they don't fit right and I say we should never wear clothes that are too big!! But then the financial impact of that is great too. Me, I like to go shopping as soon as I can fit into new clothes because I am proud, want to look good and nothing feels better than a new outfit - but to do this every 10-20 pounds or in my case, even less (admittedly I just got home from shopping where I bought a large sweater with a tie in the front and made my waist look incredible) and then soon it won't fit. When I lost 70 pounds a few years ago I spent a fortune on clothes. This time around I am going to try and go with a few main pieces like a good black jacket, pair of pants and colorful cami's and professional t-shirts to wear underneath. My sweater today should fit me for awhile as it cinches in the front. We need to enjoy our success, but just shop cheap and smart - harder said than done I know :) And down one pound is still good...since we are relatively close in the weight area, do you want to push each other to see at least 2 pounds by next Sunday? I secretly admit I want 3 but I am very happy with 2 considering the rate I am losing...

Neesy - awww - I bet people were touched by your reaction more than anything. That would be so hard to be away from people you really love - and with limited interaction. But - you are close to 50 pounds lost girl and that's something to be super excited about :)

Burgandy - KFC is the :devil: but you will be on track tomorrow - drink lots of water to flush it out and don't weigh yourself for a few days to let the sodium escape your body...it's so hard to not eat those things sometimes isn't it? Tonight I had ice cream at Dairy Queen - and you know what, I really enjoyed it. I felt a bit guilty but then I thought no way - I've been doing good and I can't look at food as the enemy. As long as I don't have them often I think that's ok. But I am sure I will work a bit harder at the gym tomorrow. But I also made a wise choice - I got a small one and ate it slowly...so I am really happy that I am making wiser choices even when the choices are not the best ones (if that makes any sense). I am strongly considering allowing myself once a week to eat something I really enjoy - one thing - not the whole day because I think that's how I fall off track...maybe try that? Don't look at it as a reward but more as it's something enjoyable...
Does anyone else do that?

Well I have to get ready for my busy arse week!!! It's going to be a long one that is for sure...tomorrow I have the gym in the morning - just some weights and cardio and then a class in the evening. I am splitting up my workouts now because I like the way I feel at night after a workout and I can't get it all in first thing or at night...the night one is kind of optional in case I can't get out of work or I am exhausted - so at least I have a workout in from the morning.

I am also working on my posture which really sucks.

Boy I have babbled a lot lately! Hope everyone has a good Sunday night...and a good Monday - see you around lunchtime tomorrow :)

I actually purged my closet this weekend too and have nothing left! It's sort of crazy. I have done a little shopping but just two pairs of jeans and a few shirts. I now know I will need to replace my fall and winter jackets, I have absolutely nothing dressy, and even things like camisoles etc that I thought I maybe able to squeak some more time out of are way to big! Not a bad problem to have but I still have quite a bit to lose so I don't want to spend too much right now on more transitional clothing. Oh well. I know you all understand :)

Have a great night ladies!

Howdy girls - belated check in from me today. Still holding steadyish at 166 so that's two for this week.

Congrats to all the losers out there and sorry to hear that some of you aren't feeling well - that's such a bummer.

Got a pair of cute jeans but that's about the only good bit of this weekend - my bf is definitely getting moody and I'm letting it affect me and I should know better by now. Major pity party for me today and now I'm totally disgusted with myself and am pulling a 'Staccie' - catching up on work at midnight, mainly to make myself feel better about something that I have some control over. Sorry to be so unfun and self-absorbed. Will catch up properly tomorrow...

Still awake - yuck! Am going to give sleeping another try now...

Another Monday and a quiet forum. Hope everyone is doing ok. I am recommitting myself to losing this week. For some reason, I've been sorta slacking on eating well, I know it was because of my work schedule last week, and that kept me from going to the gym 3 days in a row. That hasn't happened before. So, I have to make more time to prepare my breakfasts and lunches. Staccie: it's on! 2 pounds this week (even though I would really like 3 as well! :)

We're having a chili cook off at work today, so I made chili and no, it's not low cal. So I brought one of my healthy choice meals to have for lunch and then I'll sample the other chilis. Don't want to go overboard though. Plus, I have to go to the gym tonight, and chili with beans and a treadmill will not make a very good combo! LOL

Well, I hope everyone is doing ok. Dance: did you get to sleep? Congrats on the cute jeans. I have yet to buy myself a new pair...I've been spending quite a bit on clothes lately. Luckily I found a new suit at Macy's for $70...marked down from $350! Buying suit slacks and a jacket sucks though...it can cost quite a bit of money. Oh well...I'm happy for the reason why I have to buy them, but the cost itself is a bummer. Oh well.

Have a great day!

Morning, ladies! I've sort of got my equilibrium and positive energy back so the pity party is officially over.

momof5k - it's so tricky when nothing fits! But what a very nice problem to have. Do you sew or do you have access to not-terribly-expensive tailoring? I found an inexpensive seamstress on craigslist and she's helped me rescue a few things that just needed to be taken in along the side seams. Might be a cheap way to help you get through the next few sizes without major investments.

Staccie - love the sound of your new sweater! and you sound very wise about wardrobe choices. Cute black blazer, flattering jeans and stretchy tops that are size flexible are major basics for me too.

So, out here in Denver we're a little out of it fashion wise - is it still okay to tuck skinny jeans into tall boots or is that look over? I always buy bootcut jeans since they balance me better but I'm thinking of trying to do the jeans/boots combo this fall as a mini-goal reward. Any input?

neesy - how are you doing? You are such a trooper making all of these wonderful positive changes while your hubby is gone. I'm so proud of you and your strength!

Maddiesmom-I did my measurements a few weeks ago and going to check them again soon. I am hoping to see results there. Its fun when clothes are too big, but not fun when you have to shell out a bunch of money for some you know will be too big soon again. Have you looked at TJ Maxx or Ross. We can both get back to eating better starting today. I would love to see a 2 lb drop this week.

Staccie-yay to the seagulls staying away yesterday. I figured I wont stress about eating more than I should have yesterday. I dont do it all the time and I am right back on plan today. Hope your week goes smoothly, looks like you have a great plan for workouts. I need to work on my posture too, I really notice it when I drive.

Momof5-sounds like you have some shopping to do. Hit up the clearance racks, thats what I always do.

Dance-you are rocking with the weight loss, congrats on 2 lbs this week. Hope your bf gets to feeling better soon and not so moody. It always affects my mood when my husband is having a bad day.

I was up a lb at 212 today but that is to be expected with all the bad stuff I ate yesterday. I am gonna drink a lot of water and get all that sodium out. 1200 calories isnt doing me any favors, so I am going to up it today to 1600 and see if that helps. I really want to see a drop on Sunday. I think too, I need to step away from the scale for a few days. I really obsess over it. I weigh every single morning. Maybe I can get it down to 2-3 times tops. Sundays for sure.

No plans for today, except stay home and continue with the cleaning and organizing. Need to get everything in my life in order so I can continue on this journey.

Hope everyone has a fantastic day.

Dance just saw your post and glad you are feeling better today. Not sure about the boot/jean thing. I live in a SMALL town here in MI so I wear what I want and dont worry about it. Maybe some of the other girls will be a little more help to you than I am.

Good morning chicks!

Well I'm having a good day. Feeling confident in my new sweater - it makes me look skinny :) It has this cute ribbon thing that ties at my waist and I never usually wear that. I went to this store last night and they were awesome - honest about things that I shouldn't be wearing. But I promised myself that is my last purchase until the end of the month.

I didn't work out this morning, was exhausted - I never sleep on Sunday nights - but I have that class tonight and looking forward to it. I better see some results this week - especially since Vicky and I are competing :) A little friendly competing is good motivation!!!

Dance - sorry to hear about the stress and no sleep last night but that you are feeling better this morning! You are pulling a Staccie for sure!!! Nice to hear about the jeans though! Did you give your arse a high five when you tried them on?!?! I live in Vancouver - the mecca of fashion in Canada - think New York but in Canada lol and that look is very popular here so you can bet in Denver it's all good!! I don't think that look will ever stray too far and good thing cause it looks sexy!!

Burgandy - sounds good about staying away from the scale, particularly when the sodium from :devil: KFC leaves your system. Drinks tons of water and flush your system and I bet on Wednesday it will be gone :)

I am on the fence about weighing in everyday too. I am tending to stay away from it when I know I might see something I don't like, such as when I work out the night before, I always weigh more, etc. I am going to weigh in every second day and keep trying on my tight clothes. I sure feel like I have lost a lot, no one has said anything yet - so maybe it's not noticeable but then again some people find it scary to say it because it may offend you, so who knows.

Vicky - ok lady - we are on! Woo hoo!! And it's good that you are not having too much chili today at lunch - because that could be an unfortunate situation at the gym tonight lol :) You have such strong control though - I'm always impressed by that. Oh yeah - my weight is 224.8 as of Sunday - I hate writing that number down - I gained so much in July/August. Stupid meds.

Mom - woo hoo for closet purge - you've lost so much I bet your underwear could be worn as a jumpsuit lol! Awesome but hard on the wallet isn't it?

Well I guess I better get back to work. I am feeling undermotivated today as usual for Monday. I had a few productive hours and then boom! I'm always so tired on Mondays because I dont' sleep well after sleeping in and napping on the weekend. They are always a write off!

Will check in later after my class tonight...I'm looking forward to it - oh how my life has changed in the past month!!!

Staccie- I am glad you are having a great day! I hope it stays that way. I know your class will go well.

Where is Lindy again?

I am off to the gym. I am still sick but I am wanting to work out and with all of the high sodium soup and "sick" foods I have allowed myself (iced mochas and fudgesickles) I need to pound this out. So not so great on the food front but I am trying none the less.

burgundy - great plan on the increase to 1600 - I think you'll see great results at that level with the amount of exercise you're getting. Good luck with all of the organizing - I'm working on that too and it seems to help a lot.

Got day 14 done. Trying to reach 1600, I am at 800 now. Hope I can make it there by 8. Gonna have a snack, then Subway for dinner. Gotta go keep the boys in about an hour. Have a great night ladies, talk to you all tomorrow

AJ - Lindy's on a cruise with her family for the whole week, I think.

Staccie - Your posts always leave me smiling! : ) So what color is your new sweater? I can almost picture it except for the color. I think the skinny jeans and boots will be a 11/1 goal reward - can't wait!

Burgundy- Thanks again for the support!! And I LOVE Subway. What do you get??

Dancer- I am sorry about your Bo. Its hard not to let the ones we surround ourselves with effect how we feel. Its like food. Junk in, junk out. Bad attitude in, bad out! I hope that are able to hold your chin high through all of it. And I wanted to let you know that I saw pics from a bachelorette party and you look so beautiful! Looks like a fun group. <3

Does anyone in here use aim?

Ok, guys, I haven't gotten in my exercise yet today and it was raining most of the afternoon and is cold and gloomy out. I'm gearing up for it slowly ;) I have to keep reminding myself that I really like fitting into my jeans. I figured if I came and told you guys that I'm going to do my 4.4mile loop today, it might increase the odds of it actually happening. Promise to yell at me later if I don't come back and tell you I went running?

Dancer- GO! You motivated me. Its not rainy here. I went to the gym and there were people there so I walked 1 mile and left. I am going back now! I am going to go 4.4 miles with you!! Thanks. You better go though =)


....later. Just thought I would add on.
Dancer- I did it. 4.4. run run run. That was the first time I have ran since middle school. It felt better than walking. I hope you got out and did it with me. Thank you so much for helping me get motivated even though that wasn't your intention.

So i did the gym. I went a total of 5.4miles today. I ate so/so but I will have a great dinner and I am going to climb stairs after dinner. I love the indoor stuff because of the AC!! Now... to a great dinner and my beautiful dogs =)

*Sigh* Did my 4.4 miles in cold, windy rain. Brrr! Glad that's over...

AJ - did you go back for more for real? How cool!

I od'ed on peanuts and smarties...ewww :(

I had a pretty good day but then in the afternoon I started feeling snarly and cravings like mad - I managed to control myself until about 9PM - I don't feel so good. Particularly from the sodium...TOM is coming - AHHH my arse needs a spankin' not a high fivin' :( Guess that means I have to work really hard in the gym now tomorrow....

GRRRRRR!!!!! If I hadn't gone to the grocery store - now I convinced myself I needed fruit but heh, I could have gone without tonight...bad move going to the store when I have cravings from :devil: Tear...sob....scratch...hiss...howl!!!

Now I made it through almost 30 days of being clean, I have to make it through TOM!!! Give me strength to run from Aunt Flow's in Town!!!

AJ and Dance - good on you for running your getting skinnier everyday arses! One in the cold and rain and the other in the air conditioning...you deserve high fives! And Rayne - you too for trucking along!!!

Me, I never went to the gym, I got out of work late and then sat like a lump on the couch where I scratch...hiss...howl...pouted about everything. TOM turns me into a real *****!!! I bet that gets starred out!

Well I'm going to sleep despite feeling my stomach is really gross. Now I really only ate a small bowl of peanuts and smarties but it feels yucky!!!

Sorry for the self loathing...

Staccie - sweetie, you slipped a bit but it's okay, you're human. We're all highly fallible! As long as you don't let a small slip turn into a collossal landslide, you're good. Make today a better day. One of the amazing things to me with this particular weight loss effort (there have been many in my life, some very successful, some not at all) has been realizing that I can mess up for a meal or even a day and the overall trend is still very much downward. Of course, it would be faster without the slips but who knows, maybe the occasional treat keeps me from feeling deprived or something which helps you stick to the program. **Let go of the self-criticism** and remember how cute you looked in your new sweater. That hasn't changed - now you just need to *PLAN* out a day of healthy eating (don't leave it to chance - bring some healthy snacks to work, decide on dinner this morning) and make sure you get in some exercise, even if it's only a bit. TOM totally sucks but you're doing far too well to let that undo you. You've got this, kiddo!

aj - just saw the edits to your earlier posts - wow, you ran 4.4 miles your first time running in years? :carrot: :carrot: :bravo: you rock, girl!

Quiet board today!

I've started doing microwave oatmeal for breakfast in the morning as nothing keeps me fuller for longer for so few calories. Anyone else have good breakfast suggestions?

Staccie- You have done so well not slippin' up! You need a high five for that! Now forget about yesterday... take care of your self today and move on. I HATE TOM and every thing that comes with it. I am sorry that you had a rough day!

Dancer- I ran, walked, ran walked... lol. But it was awesome and I am so sore today. I wanted to start running I just made myself think it was too hard or I just wasn't made for it. I loved it. And I love being sore.

Today, I feel awful. I am even more sick than before. I can tell I am at the end of it but still icky. I am going to keep pushing through it and work extra hard today at drinking a ton of water.

I had a weird rant last night... I will go into later. I think TOM is coming... *scary duh duh duhnnn...*

AJ - sorry you're feeling icky! Curious to hear about the rant. And still so impressed with your discipline last night - WTG! I think you'll love the effects of running on your body - besides all the good leg stuff, you get more toned arms and torso from the upper body movement. And need I add - weight loss!

Am doing super boring budget reviews at work - aargh! Now that it's lunch time, I need to get out the door to run but am a little unmotivated - I may put it off to later in the day. I'm meeting up with some friends to walk in the park tonight which I'm hoping will keep me on track this week with the extra calorie burn.

Thanks Dance and AJ! I had the most horrible night dreaming about being sick and about chased by human sized peanuts...lol!! I couldn't get up to work out this morning because I was so exhausted but I am for sure going tonight, I am leaving work a bit early to accomodate it. I packed good eats for the day and my cravings are almost non-existent right now. I think I scared myself with smarties and peanuts to last for awhile!! Thanks for your support - it really helps!!! My body is aching to get to the gym and I am looking forward to it.

Fringing TOM!!! I hate that arsehole!

AJ - sorry you are still not feeling well - get better soon!!!

Dance - I hate breakfast - I usually only have a banana and a protein shake -so I don't have any options at all - but I eat egg whites with salsa a lot for dinner :)

Well I have to get some work done...be back later :)

S

Staccie - too funny about the dream! I had weird dreams last night too but I don't remember specifics - I did another one of those 10-hr sleeps to make up for the insomnia the day before. I'll have to give the egg whites with salsa a try - I love breakfast burritos with salsa but haven't been a huge fan of egg whites so far - maybe salsa will improve them dramatically ;)

Okay - one more budget review and then I'm off for a run...

Staccie- Your so funny. I hope you can recover emotionally from your frightful dreams <3

Dancer- Enjoy your run. My mom said it is freezing there. I am very sore but I am excited to run today. It might be more like run/limping. I hope your reports go smoothly. BTW... walmarts produce section had really great salsa that I eat on my egg whites. Its the only way I like egg whites.


**RANT** So TOM might be around the corner so this might be why this is worse but on the way to eat last night my husband told me he wants to take millions in loans to start his own studio instead of working for someone. I am not sure where your mind goes but here is where mine went...

I gave up my company for his music career, then I gave up my tiny arse when we were all over the board and I had nothing to do but eat and be alone. Then I finally get settled at home and then uproot everything to move to Tempe for his school. Now I have to give up the next bagillion years to debt. In my mind that means... no home, instability, no baby. NO BABY! I have wanted a child since we met 5 years ago. He is 23 and I am 28. I know he has time to jerk around but I feel like rotting fruit that has just been bagged and placed in the dark drawer of the fridge. I told him 10 months 2 months ago. I told him I want to start trying as soon as he graduates. Where did my dreams go?? Eff. Is this stupid? Am I being trivial. I feel like the mommy me has turned on and its all I can think about. Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr.

Sorry ladies. Thanks for letting me vent. It looks sill written out but it is what it is.

AJ-I love subway too. I get the subway club piled with veggies. So good. You ran 5.4 miles, amazing. Hope you are feeling better soon and can keep the momentum going. I am 28 too and want a baby so bad. Your dreams shouldnt be pushed aside while he lives all his. We have been trying to get pregnant for over 3 years now.

Dance-getting those runs in? I am a wuss when it comes to going in the rain, you are inspiring me to try it though. Its supposed to rain all week here, so if I may have to. I do microwave oatmeal too, or a protein bar most of the time for breakfast.

Staccie-Aunt Flow is :devil: She could go away and never come back. At least you are still getting to the gym. Dont let the smarties and peanuts get you down.

I was still with the boys this morning until 1030. Was bad and skipped breakfast. Didnt eat until 1 or 2 and had a tuna melt on rye with french fries. Yikes. Then didnt eat again until dinner. I was doing so well there for a while. For dinner I made turkey and gravy with green beans, mashed potatoes and corn on the cob. My southern genes kicked in tonight with my cooking. I WILL GET BACK ON TRACK TOMORROW. I havent weighed and dont plan on weighing tomorrow if I can keep myself from it. I may on Thursday. Staying home tomorrow so I can stay on track. More organizing and cleaning to do, can you tell I am taking my time with this?? Hope everyone has a great night. I will check in later, gotta go watch Biggest Loser.

Hi Ladies,

AJ: Don't put your dreams on hold! I know it's rough when you want to have a baby....but on the other side, you aren't a piece of rotting fruit (otherwise, I'm the fruit that has molded and is leaking all over the bottom of the fridge!) LOL I had Madeline when I was 29 and the timing worked for myself and my hubby. I would talk to the hubby and see if he can work for someone else while you are saving money and starting a family, and once that is stable, perhaps look into going into business for himself. I wouldn't blame TOM for how you're feeling, it's a legitimate issue.

Burgundy: Don't skip breakfast! It makes things so much worse!! Get back on the wagon tomorrow, you can do it!!!

Staccie: Did you go for your run?

I was gonna go to the gym today, but I'm starting to feel under the weather. One the one side, I don't want to skip a workout since I haven't been to the gym since Saturday, but I also don't want to make it worse for myself by pushing it. So, I'm going to bed early tonight and then go tomorrow no matter what then I have Hott trainer on Thursday.

Have a great night ladies.

I know Vicky, it was bad on my part to skip and I wont do it again. My food choices today were so much worse with out it.

I had to share...

So, I'm supposed to be in bed, I know. But, since I'm feeling down about not being able to go to the gym, I decided to measure myself to see how I am doing...since the scale isn't always the best indicator. Here are the inches lost from August until today:

Arms: 1 inch each
Legs: 1.25 inches each
Waist: 2 inches
Hips: 2 inches
Bust: 1 inch

This was from August until now. Now, I totalled up the total inches lost since January, and drumroll.............I have lost a total of 23 inches (7 inches in my waist alone!). How crazy is that?!? I'm excited. I needed this since I'm entering a "funk." Now I see that there are results happening, even if I'm not losing a ton of pounds each week.

Sweet dreams ladies!

maddiesmom - WOOOOHOOO! That's amazing progress - wtg!

AJ - sorry for your frustrating circumstances! my mom always says there's never a perfect time to have a baby - maybe there's a way for both of you to have what you want at the same time. Come vent about it whenever you like...

burgundy - what are you going to do to make today a good one?

Vicky- !!! *Dancing in my pj's* GREAT SUCCESS!!! I am so happy for you. You have lost over two feet of you. Thats amazing. It must feel fantastic.

Dance- Thanks. How is your day going? More reports or someothing more interesting =)?

Burgundy- I hope you are able to conceive. Isn't it weird to be trying so hard to lose weight when you want to be pregnant? lol. I want to be a healthy pregnant not a people can't tell I am pregnant. haha. I am glad to know there is someone else my age feeling it =)

I got up and cooked breakfast. I have never had turkey bacon. I actually liked it more than real bacon AND I got soo full. Now I am going to lay back down because my pushing through the being sick thing is not working. I am taking a sick day and staying down. So I will be here alllllll day =)

Hi everyone...sorry for being MIA - I have been really sick. TOM has hit me harder than ever, or at least I hope that it. But I was shouting to "Ralph" the toilet god for most of the night and I am finally getting ready to go to work now. I have a big day and can't take it all off :( I hope I am better before this weekend as I have 4 days off (it's our Thanksgiving weekend in Canada). I feel so gross...cravings were bad last night, I gave in a little but didn't go overboard...now I have no appetite for fear of chatting with Ralph again :(

AJ - I am sorry to hear about the situation - your dreams are important too and there needs to be some level of compromise negotiated...and it's not trivial at all - TOM may be an arsehole but he does sometimes force us into thinking and emotions that otherwise may stay wrapped up. I think talking about it out loud is the first step and acknowledging your feelings to others and then to him. It gives you a chance to really sort through how you feel about things!

Burgandy - fingers crossed for the stork for you too - you are making some positive life choices that may help your health and maybe that will be key? Not sure but I am hoping for you anyway! And yes I agree with Vicky - get back on track - you can do it!!!

Dance - egg whites are gross but with salsa...yum!

Vicky - sorry to hear that you are under the weather too...I can definitely relate today! But woo hoo about the inches! I need to do that too as the scale doesn't move for me too much. I haven't worked out since Sunday either and had intention of going this morning but obviously my buddy Ralph held my attention way too long :) I hope I can go tomorrow - my body really is feeling blah. Fringin TOM!

Well I better finish getting ready to go to work. I have a long day as I have to work the hockey game tonight so I won't get home until 11PM :( I hope I can make it all the way through! Hope everyone else gets through the day good - can't wait to catch up more tomorrow and see what's on the scoop for the weekend.

Vicky - we are weighing in on Sunday...I don't have high hopes but I got a good three days to get in... :devil:

xoxo - S

Howdy, girls!
Looks like they were doing maintenance on the board today - things look kind of weird (images not appearing) but maybe I need to signoff and sign in again or something.

Staccie - hope you're feeling better - that sounds tough. Glad you have a break this weekend!

aj - turkey bacon - yumm! Good idea on taking it easy today - sounds like your body needs some more recovery time.

Eating is good so far today. Will check in later...

Hope everyone's off getting in some major workouts or something good!
I was catching up on another thread with a bunch of newbies and it was such an interesting contrast to this gang - we all know what we need to do, it's just that sometimes it's easier than others.

Am going to swing by the grocery store on the way home - do you guys have honeycrisp apples in your areas? Super yummy and sweet right now - they've temporarily knocked gala and fuji apples to 2nd and 3rd place.

I wish I was getting a good work out. Nope... sick. lol. I am though super duper excited about tonight. I am going to Ikea. I love ikea. Best and easiest workout in the world. I need shelves and I can get out and walk all in one big trip =)

Dance- I have not had those apples but I will look for them while we are out tonight. Luvvvv apples!

Staccie- Sorry about the horrific night! Here is a cherry for your cake! You are one of the most beautiful women I have ever seen!!! Your pics on facebook are amazing and you have gotten to do so many cool things. Dang girl... I feel lucky to (online) know you =)

AJ: You are always such a sweetheart on this forum!! You are such a wonderful addition to our little group here! Sorry you're still under the weather. :( I hate being sick. Of course I'm still trying to talk my body into not being sick, but it doesn't seem to be listening.

I'm going to the gym tonight, still don't want to and I'm not sure if it's because I'm sick or because I'm lazy or because I'm in a strange funk. I thought getting the compliments from being would remotivate me, but I guess when it comes down to it, I really have to motivate myself.

Food was pretty good today:
Breakfast: Oatmeal with raisins and brown sugar
Snack: Sweet and salty bar
Lunch: Turkey breast sandwich with mixed veggies and small salad
Dinner: Chix breast with cheese and tomato on an Arnold flatbread and 1 cup of chili

Well, just waiting for the hubby to get home from his haircut before I can go to the gym. I have to go, there's no way I can go 4 days without going, plus I have the trainer tomorrow. I find that the more days I'm away (even tho it was due to being sick) I start to come up with reasons not to go. Anyone else have the same problem?

Have a great night ladies!

Maddiesmom-that is a lot of inches. I am so proud of you. Hope you get to feeling better soon. Maybe the workouts will help.

Dance-I was good today. Worked out, short walk. Good day. Havent heard of those apples but will have to try them.

AJ-I want people to be able to tell I am pregnant too, not just look like I gained a little weight. I am hoping to have a baby before I am 30. If it doesnt work for us the natural way, I guess we will look at other options. Keeping my fingers crossed for both of us. Turkey bacon is yummy. I havent had any in a long time, may have to get some when I go grocery shopping. Hope you feel better soon.

Staccie-man, looks like everyone isnt feeling well. Hope is only TOM and you arent coming down with something, feel better soon. Hope the long day doesnt make it worse.

Ok, I was back on the wagon today. It is so hard to make it to 1600 calories after eating 1200 for so long. Before it would have been easy, but now eating healthy stuff instead of fried, greasy, nasty things, its a bit of a challenge.

I got day 16 of 30ds done today. Walked the dogs, not a long walk, it was pretty chilly at 7pm. Cleaned/organized the kitchen, living room, dining room, one bathroom, rearranged living room(again) Gonna work on my bedroom and other bathroom tomorrow.

I am thinking about taking pics in the outfit I wore when we first started the challenge and the outfit I wore at the very beginning. I may or may not post them here, but would like to see the comparison.

Going shopping Friday. Dont plan on buying any clothes but I do want to try on some size 14 jeans. I had on a pair today, the tag said 15 and I pulled them up and down without unbuttoning. YAY!! I have stayed away from the scale 2 days. Hard for me, but I did it. May hop on there tomorrow. I know I am losing inches, I just wish the pounds would go a little faster too.

Have a great night ladies.

Ummmm Neesy... are you okay? Where are you?

And Tiff! If you ever lurk... we want you back please! So many people are just gone now. Miss them.

Going to bed. Not a good day at all. Tomorrow, cleaning day. I am strangely happy about that. Have a good night girls!

and mygrits - hope you're just busy with work and will be back with us soon!

aj- good luck on your cleaning day! For some reason, cleaning and organizing are tightly coupled for me with sticking to plan and feeling better about life so maybe that will happen for you too.

burgundy - One way that they suggest increasing your calories slightly is to add a small amount of healthy fats like olive oil, almonds and avocados - that might be worth a try. Wooohoooo on the jeans! Isn't that fun?!

maddiesmom - I know exactly what you mean - yesterday I just felt super ugly (bad hair day, forgot to put in earrings, make-up didn't turn out right, didn't like the outfit I put together but was in too much of a hurry to change it) and I got a compliment on my weight loss from a co-worker and I swear it was all I could do to politely thank her since I felt so whacked by the ugly stick (what was the expression you used ages ago? hit all of the branches of the ugly tree? I remember that making me laugh). And absolutely, if I get out of my workout rhythm at all, I have the hardest time getting back into it.

Cold and rainy-ish here - am going to try to get in my run before it gets worse.

Morning ladies. AJ-I am right with you cleaning today. Finishing what I started yesterday.
Dance-I will have to add some of that stuff into my diet and see if it helps, thanks.

I got on the scale this morning and still at 211. Hoping to be 210 by Sunday. Have some errands to run, then home to clean. I will check in later.

Good morning everyone!

Finally got my butt onto my treadmill this morning and ran/walked 3.5 miles. Hooray! I have had a headached since Monday that I can't seem to shake so I've been avoiding the run but then thought maybe my body was needing some exercise and was rebelling with the headache to prove it LOL

The run didn't get rid of my headache yet but it does feel good to get back on it anyway. And I tried out my new workout clothes and they worked great! Now I need a new sports bra and some sort of moisture wicking headband or something to keep the sweat off my face. Then I will be good to go.

By the way...you may notice my new avatar ;) 75 pounds!!! :woohoo:

Hi Ladies:

AJ: Have fun cleaning! Wish I had more time to do it, but with an active 2 year old, I'm mostly cleaning up the same toys multiple times during the day.

Burgundy: Good luck with your cleaning as well. And, great job on keeping with the 30DS!!

Dance: I always used the term, fell off the ugly tree and hit every branch on the way down. LOL. I'm just icky today and the work out last night didn't help like I thought it would. I warmed up and ran 1/2 a mile then did a mile on the elliptical. I didn't want to push myself too much and run into a big giant cold. Of course, today, I feel like crap and I have the trainer tonight. I'm determined not to skip and reschedule and then I'll take tomorrow off.

My schedule is so crazy and the hubby started his new job today, so now I have to get up even earlier, then I take Madeline to daycare and have to pick her up. So, the soonest I can work out during the week is 8:00, then I have to drive the 25 minutes home, get a shower in and go to bed. Makes for busy days, that's for sure.

I'm ravenous today, so I'm trying to avoid snacking. Had my sweet and salty bar and I'm drinking some hot tea for my throat...praying that I feel better. We're going to try and take Madeline to the apple orchard this weekend. I've been going there since I was 10, so it's a nice tradition. I'm going to splurge a little: they have the best caramel apples and make their own cider donuts. These donuts are so good that I drove over an hour, 9 mos pregant to get a dozen. So, I already plan to have one so that's what's forcing me to the gym tonight.

Have a great day ladies!

dance- It really is making a dif in my dieting. The more organized I am the healthier i feel!

Burgundy- Partners in grime.... lol. Sorry. I am quirky this morning.

mom- ! Fantastic work! 75lbs. That is a true milestone. It must feel fantastic!!!

Vicky- I have never been super clean so I am trying a new routine on for size. So far I love it.

Today is a new day. Going to Ikea to pick up shelves. Then clean clean clean. I weighed in @ 159.5 this morning but I am not changing my ticker until I see it again tomorrow!

Hey girls. Sorry I haven't been on. I worked/then slept monday/tuesday away. Yesterday I didn't feel too good. I got the flu shot last week. and it never fails that I get sick. I feel a little better today. I did squeeze in some shopping and couldn't find the outfit I want to wear for grad day. I think I will just end up wearing jeans and a nice shirt. It's getting to be stressful trying to find the perfect outfit. Who knows. I'm nervously excited about grad day. I just keep wondering how it's going to go down. How I .. and he will act. I think I've gone through just about every emotion since he's been gone. I just really hope we can fall back into the same routine and be "us." Well.. at least as close as possible. I am really considering the travel nursing when he goes to maryland.. so we'll see. Well I'll check in later.

Hi girls,

Sorry I am just not doing too good - I came home early from work last night and had a horrific night with bad dreams, nightsweats and everything. I am thinking I might have something else in addition to TOM. I'm very emotional today too probably because of no sleep. Thank god I have the next four days off. I miss the gym, I miss the healthy food and I miss my good mood.

On that note, sorry I am being a downer...I just wanted to check in and let you all know I am still alive and kicking :)

I am off early and going home to rest tonight so I will read up and respond back, I have a few issues that I could use some advice on from you ladies...

For now, I am getting through this day and I look and feel like ****!

momof5k - :bravo: on 75 pounds! That's fantastic - and good for you for getting in your workout!

maddiesmom - you have one tough schedule! Would it work to do workout videos at home occasionally to save on the driving time?

aj - hope the shelving expedition went well. So jealous of your having an Ikea - love love love that store!

neesy - well, one thing's for certain - he'll be super impressed by your weight loss progress! Sorry you've been under the weather - that's such a bummer.

staccie - someone with your pretty smile could never look like **** but it is weird that we have days that we feel like we just look awful. I bet no one else can ever tell. Hope the dark clouds blow over and that you get some good r&r over the weekend.

Neesy- Hope you feel better soon. You still have a little bit of time to shop for the big graduation!! How exciting.

Staccie- I am so sorry that this is happening to you! *HUGS!!!* Have you tried a sleep aid maybe? To really zonk you out... So sorry. We are always here for you.

Dancer- There is one opening at some point in Park Meadows. Exciting?? I know! =) I got great shelves and I am done.

I am officially moved in. Nothing left to do but upkeep. Feels good to have every thing out of boxes and off the floor. We moved from a HUGE place to a studio so clutter gets chaotic really fast. I am doing great with food and water today. Prob need to eat more veggies. No "work out" yet today but I have been sweating for like 4 hours + so I am feeling okay about it right now. Dinner is looming so hope the night goes well.

PS. GO ROCKIES!!!

Momof5-:carrot: for your 75 lbs, congrats!!!!! 3.5 miles is great, hope the headache got better throughout the day.

Maddiesmom-busy busy lady. Dances idea of videos might help some nights. How is your husband liking the job? Keep drinking that tea and maybe it will help you feel better. They donuts and caramel apples sound so yummy.

AJ-woohoo, 159, you are doing great now that you are back in this. I didnt get much cleaning done today. But I will finish it. YAY for being all moved in. I hate moving because of all the packing and unpacking.

Neesy-glad you checked in. Hope the shot doesnt keep you under the weather long. Only 2 weeks and you get to see your hubby. I am sure whatever you find to wear will look great and your husband will be impressed.

Staccie-it sucks you are feeling so bad. Try to rest as much as possible. Finger crossed you dont have any nightmares tonight. Enjoy your 4 days off.

Didnt get much of my organizing done today. The day just went by too fast. I did get a walk with the dogs and husbands aunt in. Did day 17 of 30ds. Just 13 more days and we will have completed 30ds. I have not lost with it like I would have liked. But who knows what will happen. I also did the walking circuit video right after 30ds tonight. Hoping for 210 soon. I just want to see a drop even if its only 1 lb. Going shopping tomorrow. Gonna try to find some cheap workout clothes. I dont have many, usually just wear shorts and a tshirt. I need something that will help with the moisture. Going to an outlet mall, so should be able to find something. Wish me luck too, gonna try on some size 14s.

Hope Lindy is having a great time on her cruise. Maybe we will hear from Mygrits, Tiff, Basics, Hotsplashes soon. Night ladies.

Mygrits, Tiff, Basics, Hotsplashes and Lindy too!

We miss you!

Hola chicks,

AJ - that's so nice your big message - I hope if they are lurking they know we miss them and find their way back :)

I have to admit, I had a binge attack tonight...felt so crappy and depressed that I went all out, now I feel even more sick and really disappointed with myself. Bad me :( Anyway, I have four days to get myself back on track and prepare myself with shoot TOM guns for next month. I have a doctors appointment on Tuesday as well - there is no way someone should be this sick with TOM - if I don't have the flu too - whatever I am making myself rest but also do some light exercise tomorrow too - and if I find myself trying to talk my way out of it I am going to come on here and be accountable...

I'll be back tomorrow with a better attitude I promise...

Hi Chickies! Happy Friday!!

Well, after going back and forth and debating whether or not to keep my training appointment with Mr. Hott, I decided that I should suck it up and go. I really don't like cancelling, so in that respect, I'm glad I went. He kicked my butt though. I mentioned to him that I was feeling a little under the weather, but that didn't stop him. I'm pretty freakin' sore today, so I guess there's no sympathy. I got a really good workout though, and he had me laughing really hard, so I guess it wasn't so bad.

But now this morning, I'm full-on sick. My boss noticed it today to and handed me hand sanitizer. I did not want to get out of bed today, but didn't have a choice since I have so much going on at work. What can ya do? I did get compliments again with some of the girls I work with, "the incredibly shrinking Vicky" was what I was called today and another lady was commenting that my fingers looked thin. Kind of a funny compliment, but I'll take it!

Dance: Thanks for the suggestion of working out at home. Of course, I have all of the workout dvd's and I can count on 1 hand how many times I've actually used them. I find that when I drive out to the gym I have to make it worth my while to get a good workout in since I have to drive to get there. Plus, my trainer checks in on me to make sure I am using the right form etc. I do medicine ball workouts at home on my off days though. But I think my body is getting used to them.

Anyways, back to work. Lucky me. Then it's the orchard tomorrow...which will be really fun since Maddie can run around and play. No work out tonight, taking the day off today...kinda sore and pretty sick.

Staccie: Just curious...was there a reason for your binge? i.e. something emotional happening, stress, or just TOM and wanting to eat? I just wanted to see if we can help you find the trigger that makes you binge.

I hope you feel better and the doctor can give you some good news. Get back on track, get a small workout in. The tone of your posts are so positive and happy when you work out. Good luck!

Morning, girls!
Feeling like kind of a stud this morning because of my 5.6 miles run yesterday while it was snowing (!! lightly, but still snowing). Haven't run that far since college. My goal is six miles as a max so I'll have to figure out what loop pattern to run in the park for that distance.

maddiesmom - bummer on being sick! Just looked at your ticker again and was totally wowed by your overall progress - 'incredibly shrinking' maddiesmom, for sure! Mr. Hott and your gym routine sound wonderful and are clearly working - you don't want to mess with what works, right?

Staccie - poor you! If you decide that it's your cycle that's giving you this hard of a time, have you considered doing something that would give you less of a cycle? I think (but not sure) that depo-provera shots lessen the length of your period and birth control pills definitely do. I may have mentioned this before but I decided (after discussing with my doctor and doing tons o' research online) to take my pills back to back (no break) for 3 months at a time so I only have four periods a year. Much better for me than 12 as they used to be pretty bad and it was hard for me to get enough iron to avoid being anemic. Anyway, it seems like there might be a number of options for you that would be easier than the status quo. Hope things turn around this weekend!

We're off to San Francisco this weekend to visit my bf's dad so I won't be around much if at all. Hope everyone knocks it out of the park and that some of our old buddies reappear.

:carrot: :broc: :cheer: :cheer2: :cheer3:

Ok, I have a better attitude today and feel 100% better. TOM is gone away and I am at home working in my PJ's, getting ready to go workout and eat some nutritious food. I am sad that I fell off track this week but I just need to prepare better for TOM next month...

Vicky - sorry you are sick! It's horrible to have to work when you are - it makes things so much harder - I struggled so much this week too!! As for my binge, I believe it was related to a few things - being sick and tired is always a trigger for me - everything that wouldn't have bothered me this week really made be teary eyed and angry. And once I allow a few things like I did earlier this week it opens the door for a few more and few more. I even had a pepsi last night and I went almost a whole month without one :( I lack the control still to allow myself treats and keep it limited to that so I need to continue to work on that but still not deprive myself for too long. It's so messed up how my brain works! I am so glad that you are getting compliments...:) - it sure makes things seem worth it during the tough times doesn't it? I saw a friend yesterday that looked so awesome, she lost 20 pounds and just the change in her face was amazing - she was so elated when I noticed and complimented her.

Dance - aka STUD - I just want to say STUDETTE :) :yay: for your run!!!! that is so great - you must have felt incredibly awesome after that!!! Snow -I miss it - I cant believe I am saying that though!!! It just rains here. Yeah, I am looking forward to the doctor appointment as I can't go through another month like this. It was horrendous. HAVE FUN IN SAN FRAN! I have always wanted to go there - it looks so beautiful.

Burgandy - fingers crossed for :goodscale: this weekend - before you know it, onderland...not so far away anymore!!!!! Good luck finding some workout clothes...I love wearing nice workout clothes. I am the type of person that has like 15 pairs of runners to match my workout clothes (pathetic I know), but they don't fit me anymore so I can't wait to get back into them (well the shoes do but not much else). But I also find they soak up the sweat and fit better than just wearing a t-shirt. But I refuse to wear them until my boob buddies shrink a bit :) I don't want people to be checking out my boob buddy rack, more like my real one :) although I don't like people checking me out at the gym...it makes me self conscious.

I'm babbling now...

AJ - are you all feeling better?? Any news on the job front - sorry if I missed an update earlier this week, I am trying to put all of this past week in my "missed the boat" side of my brain.

Well I have to send a few more emails and do a bit more work before I head to the gym. I won't be stepping on the scale until Monday, I want my body to give time to adjust back to where it was with less sodium and no TOM. Vicky, I have no doubts you kicked my arse this week!!! But I will catch you next week!!!

Check in later girls - thanks for being the rock in the TOM house of horrors this week for me!!! The support I find on here is invaluable.

S

Vicky- I am so proud of you for going even though you were under the weather. I am sorry that you feel worse. I have played that game all week. Take it easy tonight maybe. Lots of tea!

Dance- Have a wonderful time in SF! Is your man in a better mood. I hope so for the trip. Great job on the run. I can't even do 5 walking in the ac. hahah. Glad you are getting out of D town for the snow muck! <3

Staccie- I am sorry for your horrific 3 nights!!! I hope Dr. can fix ya'! I am glad its over and I know that you will still rock out this week. WATER! thats what gets rid of binges =) Take care of your self and rest lots this weekend too. Any plans?

I am feeling a bit better. Not 100% but better. I didn't sleep well. Weird dreams about letting hamsters sleep in my hair. Yeah! Weird. Maybe my dogs were on my head last night. Anyways... going to get up. Eat an egg and some fruit and start this great day!

AJ - that is one funky dream - reading it made me laugh out loud! BF seems in a better mood but had trouble sleeping last night, which usually isn't a great sign for him. He has always rallied for a trip in the past - we'll see if this time is the exception to the rule.

staccie - glad you've turned the corner! Even your post looks perkier. Kick some arse at the gym!

It's interesting hearing you guys talk about your gym experiences - I don't do any of my exercise with other people around except for when I go for a hike with my bf or walks with friends. It's my time alone (with just the occasional passing runner) and for right now, that works for me. It seems like many of you find it motivational to be in the gym environment - does it get you feeling competitive? Or self-conscious?

Good question. I can't wait to hear what others say!
I can go with a friend and be fine but I get nervous and self conscious if there are many other people around. My gym is small so if I wait usually I can do it alone. And another experience in Venice, CA for me was walking on a treadmill behind a gorgeous stripper. She was like PERFECT (body)!! It motivated me. I just went until she stopped. It felt like forever but it was like staring at what I wanted to be so it helped. And she was faced forward so she wasn't watching me! lol.

Frig, I have been unable to get off my work email all morning...but my shoes are on and I was coming on here for some more motivation....anyway - to answer your question Dance...I much prefer being in a gym environment but I work out alone. I don't like to chat as I am pretty focused. I feel a bit self conscious only in the classes but after the last time I felt pretty good that I kept up with everyone else. I just make sure I don't wear clingy spandex to the gym :) And I find like AJ, when I see someone with a body that I would want (I like the muscular look - not boobless muscular look but all the same), it pushes me to go for more reps or higher weight. I used to work out with someone when I was training really seriously a few years ago and I didn't like it. But I really love having a trainer....

Well off to the gym I go...

Staccie: Glad you are back on the working out wagon. Have a great workout!

Dance: Congrats on your run! How wonderful! I really hope to be able to do that some day.

To answer your question, I prefer to work out at the gym. I guess I'm just not motivated at home because there is always something to do at home that keeps me from working out...whether it be housework, dishes, family, etc. I find that when I'm at the gym, I do get competitive with others around me, trying to keep up, etc. Plus, I feel that if I'm driving a total of 40 mins (to and from the gym) I'm going to make up for it and get a good workout. Not only that, there is so much more equipment and classes at the gym that I dont' have at home. I've had an elliptical machine for at least 6 years and I've barely used it. I am constantly on the elliptical at the gym. Plus, with the trainer, it's completely awesome. He had me on the floor doing stuff, and I didn't feel anxious or whatever because I really don't think about the others when I'm at the gym. If they want to judge me, that's their problem. Plus, there's always someone there bigger than you, no matter what size you are. In the end, does it matter what others think? I'm doing this for me!!

Oh, and get this! Funny gym story. I was at the gym Weds night and couldn't believe my eyes. I walked in and there was a girl at the gym wearing a TUBE TOP! Couldn't believe my eyes. She was really fit, but I was like "are you kidding me?!?" I guess maybe if I were that thin, I would re-think it, but if I were to put that on right now, it would look like a rubberband! LOL :) I just don't get some people. How can you run in that thing?

Anyways, long post, I'll check in later.

I am like screaming I am so happy!! I have to show you. I know the callenge isn't until Nov 1st but I looked and I am proud. I am @ 159 so only like 8 lbs lost. I fell off but look at this from working out!

OMG THIS FEELS SO GOOD!

Picture! CLICK HERE (http://img17.imageshack.us/img17/3055/weightloss.jpg)

AJ YOU LOOK FANTASTIC!!! I can totally see the difference!! You are a hot tamale!:flame:

:carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot::carrot::bravo:

Change your ticker! Claim it! :)

Lol! Thanks lady!! I am not sure what it is about the smallest changes but I want to go back for work out # 2 today because of it. It really does make it worth it.

AJ you look great!!! Can definitely notice a difference. Amazing! Great job!

So today, I am officially 50lbs down since December 08. I'm 25lbs down since my husband left August 4th. I was gonna wait to post pics... but I got excited cuz I finally hit the 50 mark.

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/mini-goal-photo-album/183829-50lbs-down-before-after-pics.html

Good evening ladies, quick post from me, gotta go keep the boys at 1015, probably all night.

Staccie-glad you are feeling much better and get some answers from Dr. about TOM. Didnt find any workout clothes, but I am still on the hunt.

Maddiesmom-we knew all along you would not skip the gym, you are doing a fantastic job. It great you have such a good relationship with your trainer, that has to keep you going and get you motivated. Hope maddie has fun at the orchard and you feel better.

Dance-YOU ROCK!!!!!!!!!! You can get to six miles soon. That is AMAZING. To answer your question... I do fine in either situation. I like the gym(which I will be joining one that is open during the winters here soon) plus I am ok with working out at home, going for walks and runs with or without people. I am bettering me like maddiesmom said, so people can think what they want. Have a great time in San Fran.

AJ-glad you are feeling better, maybe tomorrow you will be at 100%. You look amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I was thinking about posting pics(think I mentioned it in a previous post), maybe tomorrow.

I tried on 12s and 14s at Old Navy today. Got the 12s on, needed like 2 inches to button. Got the 14s on buttoned and zipped, a little snug, but THEY FIT!!!!!!!!!! Didnt buy any yet, but maybe in a few weeks I can buy the 12s. I have jeans that fit right now, just wanted to see. Came home did day 18, wanted to make sure and get it done before I head over to the boys. Bought a cute green vneck sweater at Old Navy with 3 large buttons in a Large. Thats the only clothes I bought. My hubby spent a lot so I was the frugal one. Cant wait to weigh on Sunday, really really really want to be at 210, tired of looking at 211. Ok, I have to leave soon, so I will talk to you pretty ladies tomorrow.

Neesy-just saw your post. 50 lbs and 25 since hubby left. His jaw is gonna hit the ground, you will have to pick it up for him. Great job girl. You even have more time to lose a few more. You look so great.

OMG! Neesy you look fantastic. You are gorgeous! You have unbelievable cheek bones. Its like this tv commercials where you really can't believe it is the same person before and after. I think you and your husband are going to need a second honeymoon when he is done!!!! =)

Burgundy- Thats HUGE! We now where the same size in Old Navy clothes! Wooohooo! Don't buy clothes until you have to because they are falling off of you. Then in the end you can save and get clothes you love on a body you love. Congrats girl!

Neesy- Do you know the actress that plays bones on fox? You are like a even more beautiful her! You guys have the same smile but you have skinnier face! Emily Deschanel Or her sister Zoe I think. Very much alike. =)

AW! You guys made me feel soooooooo good. Thanks a lot=) That made my day.

Neesy: You look amazing! What a difference. I'm so happy you started this thread. It's been wonderful being on this journey with you!

Great Job Girls!!!!! Wow!!!!!

AJ-not gonna buy clothes yet, just wanted to try them on. The 14s probably fit better on you than on me. Still snug but thats ok.

I had such a long night, even though the boys were in bed when I got there. My back hurt all night. Couldnt get comfortable on the couch or the floor. Finally sat up on the couch and feel asleep there. I am hoping it is from TOM, should be on the way. Took some pamprin and pepto to cover the bases. Was going to get a flu shot today since I am around kids that are in school(germs, germs, germs) all the time, but the pharmacy was out. Gotta keep checking back with them. Have the boys again tonight, not sure what time. Gotta get day 19 done before I go back over there.

I think I will try to take a nap for a half hour or so.

wow slow today. Finished day 19. One more day and then on to level 3. Its gonna be tough. Trying to find something for dinner, having squash, gotta eat it. My husband made himself taco salad. Gotta stay away from that. I want to try to get one more workout in before I leave tonight. Not sure which one yet. Hope everyone is having a fun weekend and not a boring one like me.

Burgundy- It is REALLY slow! Great job on day 19! My weekends are always boring.

Watching the rockies tonight. Making bbq chicken and a huge platter of veggies and fruit for the game. Exciting Sat night... I know. I got an amazing work out in. 4 miles, core and weight training today so almost 2 hours!! I just kept thinking.... **Thin by Christmas. 10 weeks. Skinny skinny skinny!** =) Hope you are all having a great weekend and Dance is having fun in SF! When does Lindy get back? And wtf happened to mygrits!

Woohooo! Party in here this weekend!! lol. Gnight ladies!

Hi ladies!

Well I thought I would attach a pic too - let's see if this works...

I can never figure out how to do this so I had to attach a word doc.

I guess a bit of change but not what I hoped for - my waist gets tinier and the rest not too much change.

I have to work much harder!!!

Next pic is on October 25th...

Quiet forum this weekend...I have not done much today really - feeling unmotivated and really sickly a bit. Something is definitely wrong - I've been sick so much these past few months.

Tomorrow I have better hopes...

Hope everyone else is doing good...

Staccie- Rest. Enjoy your vacation and heal! Let the docs figure it out tuesday! You just relax!

Staccie- I can definitely see the difference. You're doing awesome. Keep it up!

Hey girls! It really has been a very slow weekend- on here at least. Hopefully everyone is busy burning off calories! So. I'm down 2.4lbs this week.. putting me at 190.0 exactly. I was hoping for 189 point something.. but I know I'll be there tomorrow or the next day... oh well. I have 10 days until I see my husband. I just wanted to be in the 180s.. and I WILL be there. YAY!

Hope all is well!

:woohoo: Neesy - 180's is right around the corner for you!! 10 days until you see your husband - gawd you must be sooo excited!!!!

Well I have a better attitude today, I hope it lasts - no it will last. I have to think more positive. We have a turkey dinner tonight and I am not going to go overboard, nor drink more than the 1 beer I am allowing myself. I still feel kind of off track from my TOM horror movie this week so I don't want to mess it up again by drinking tonight.

I can't afford to fall off track for a week every month when TOM comes. And I can't use it as a crutch or an excuse either. I feel like I undid so much that I worked for the past 30 days. But with that said, I am going to get off my arse and get to the gym and pay more attention to my calorie consumption. I can do this. I want to see way more change and I have to increase my effort!!! After all, for as much as I like to work out, if I am not counting calories properly, it's kind of defeating the purpose.

Anyway - enough of that! Hope everyone has a good Sunday. I have tomorrow off for thanksgiving holiday. Then my official vacation is in two weeks!!! YEAH!

Staccie!!!- I missed your pics last night! You changed SO much in 1 month. Thats huge. YAYYYYY. You go girl. That is so awesome.

Neesy: You are a weight loss machine!!! You go girl!

Staccie: Did you work that butt off?? BTW: you can totally tell that you've lost weight from your photos! GOOD FOR YOU!!!

As for me, I maintained this week, which I will take since I've been sick for the past week and I'm still continuing to feel lousy. Not working out as much as I usually do and it's starting to get to me. I really want to go and work out and feel better, but since I'm feeling under the weather, it's just not happening right now. What can you do?

Went to the apple orchard yesterday (pics on FB) and it was really cold. Probably didn't help my cold either, but it's a tradition to go, and we had fun. I had a bbq pork sandwich, a caramel apple, hot apple cider, and then the best cider donut you'll ever taste. Oh yeah, it was worth the extra calories. Now, if only my cold would go away, I will get back into my weight loss routine. Stupid illness, has to ruin everything.

Have a great day chicks!

Vicky- Maintaining is great! I am so sorry you are still sick. I am past it I think. Feel better lady! I saw your pics. Very cool! She is so friggin cute. It made me want a pumpkin so bad!

AJ-your workout yesterday sounded awesome.

Staccie-you can tell a difference!!!!!!!!!! Great progress, we probably see it more than you do. Lookin good. Happy Turkey day. Glad you arent going to let yourself go overboard with the beer this time, remember last time?

Neesy-you will hit 189 the next few days and will probably be in the low 180s in 10 days.

Maddiesmom-maintaining is ok for as sick as you have been this week. Your treats sound yummy from yesterday. I will have to look at your pics on FB.

I finally made it to 210(where I wanted to be last Sunday) I cant figure out why my losses have slowed so much. They slowed down when I started 30ds. Today will be day 20. I am going to do it a little later, just had dinner, dont think it would be a good idea to do it now. I have lost 12 lbs since the start of our challenge. I know that is good, but I want more! Oh well, cant change the past but I can make sure the future is different. I will check in later.

Burgundy- I quit 30ds because of that. I just went back to my cardio. Its still great that you are @ 210!! Every one hits plateaus... maybe extra water and extra protein.

I didn't budge from 159 but I am cool with that. It will happen. I am feeling great other than teeth clenching in my sleep. Ready to work out and watch the Rockies.

So AJ-your weightloss slowed on 30ds too? I really want to finish out the 30 days but I want to lose in the next ten days too. My sister is doing it too. We move on to level 3 tomorrow. I am gonna talk to my sister. I know she has lost I think 4 lbs but has lost inches.

Oh well, I will figure it out.

Yeah. My weight loss halted on 30ds because of muscle gain. I don't want bulk muscle. I want to be toned once I am skinny but just building muscle under my fat was not working for me. Lindy loved it though!

Hi chicks,

Well I am home from Thanksgiving dinner and my arse is definitely NOT thanking me for the food I consumed....yack!!! I didn't drink too much, a few glasses of red wine and 1/2 glass of beer but oh god the food was sooo good and then dessert - yikes. Anyway, I have a tummy ache.

On a positive note, I had an awesome workout today and felt great. I am heading to the gym early tomorrow and then going to crack down hard like I was before except being more diligent with calorie counting.

I never weighed in today and won't until next week. I am going to take measurements though since the scale really isn't moving too quickly, I am packing on muscle which for me is great - but if I depend on the scale I am going to get demotivated alot!

I was watching the biggest loser couples (it's an older version I think) and they were weighing in and this lady who worked her arse off all week in the gym didn't lose anything - and then Jillian talks about food - and I was like - I really think that is my problem - it might be the medication too but I am weaning off that over the next few months. I cried when I was running on the treadmill when they get eliminated it's so sad. I am addicted to that show.

Rayne - woo hoo for 210. It's frustrating to not see a change, but are you noticing inches at least? AJ - I can't wait to be in the 150's - your positive attitude is what weighs in the most in my opinion :)

AJ - I am clenching my teeth in my sleep as well - in fact I think I am wearing down my top molar on my crown - it's only been the past few months..my jaw is so sore in the am - what the **** causes that? I know I have to go to the dentist but I am scared of the big fat bill!!! Even with coverage. Plus I almost puke everytime I go near that place.

Vicky - awesome pics! I agree with AJ - it makes me want a pumpkin!!! Sorry I bailed on our challenge this week, I am just too scared to weigh myself after the week I've had. Live in denial...just pick up my crap and get on with it good this week!!!!

Lindy is back, I saw her on FB - Mygrits - hope you can check in - we miss you!! And everyone else that is MIA...

Well I am going to go to sleep, I am sure it will be a rough one considering what I am digesting from dinner - ewww

Rayne -

Staccie: I am addicted to the Biggest Loser too. Are you watching the current season? Man...I have cried at almost every elimination. It's rather pathetic LOL

I too ate way too much today and had more wine than I should have. I did limit myself to only one dessert and I made it so I know it wasn't TERRIBLE (maple apple blueberry crisp mmmmm). I ran two and a half miles this morning so I am hoping that helps counter act it a bit.

It is ridiculously late so I must get to bed. Good night!!

Momof5K - no I'm not watching the current season yet, I find it hard to find time to watch it when it's on here...and I can't figure out a way to watch older episodes that are not on TV - would love to watch all the way from season 1. Very inspiring!!!

I'm feeling the food that I consumed last night for sure...but I am heading to the gym bright and early this morning - have to get back into a routine. And a good one!!! Have to learn that my cravings are controllable and can't allow the stress of the upcoming week to derail me.

I have a chat scheduled tomorrow with a co-worker that I am having problems with. Those conversations are never pleasant. I don't respect that person personally or professionally and although I am sure she is a nice person, we just don't mesh but we have to find a middle ground. You know the type of person that sulks and pouts instead of addressing a concern - well that's what I have to deal with. It's my biggest pet peeve. It's like, just say what is on your mind!!! So it should be interesting how it goes tomorrow. It's been a long time coming that is for sure. More annoying that I have to deal with it, I'm happy just not having anything to do with her but apparently that isn't going to work - sigh!!!

Ok ladies this post might be a little self centered but after seeing a lot of you share pics, I had to take my own. Man was I surprised and excited when I saw the side view. I was getting down because I wasnt seeing the scale move much, but the inches are coming off.

Aug. 1st, the start of our challenge at 222--------------Today at 210
http://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/DSCF2717.jpghttp://i176.photobucket.com/albums/w165/burgundy_rayne/weight%20loss/1012094.jpg

Burgundy: YOU LOOK GREAT!!! You can totally tell the difference. You can see it in the profile of your face as well! Way to go!!!!

Burgundy!!- You look great! I can see such a difference. My biggest thing is my arms and your arms look great! can you tell?? You really worked hard!