Support Groups - Excercise, Diet and Support

Hello This is a thread that welcomes all who want to discuss excercise plans and routines, Diet plans, tips and adivce and most importantly, to give support to all who need a gentle but firm push in the right direction. :)

All discussions of weight, measurements, diet and diet associated topics are welcome. You can post your favorite health, nutrition and excercise sites here. You can share with us your tips on dieting and excercise. This is a forum that is open to all who are interested in getting in better shape for a long healthy life. And of course, if you are having a bad day, week etc...like the song from friends say" I'll be there for you" So please feel free to introduce yourselves. I look forward to being a buddy. Lets start this journey together

cyan

This thread is a great idea, Cyan!
I just spent a few very stressful days out of town, and now that I'm back home am determined to get back to my exercise / diet routine. In the past I have dieted and exercised, but never together. It's truly amazing, but putting these two tools together really works! I'm averaging 2 lbs and 1 1/2 inches a week.

A tip that works for me:Eat small portions with the idea you can always have more if you are still hungry. Then wait 5 minutes after you've eaten to determine if you're still hungry. It takes that long for your body to register that you are full or still hungry. If you get a second helping before waiting, you may be feeding your hand to mouth habit instead of your body. :lol:

Hi Cyan,

Its cjunk again. Thanks for the interesting thread!

Okay, some exercise tips:

Try and incorporate exercise into your daily lifestyle in addition to your workouts. What I mean is this:

-Park farther away and walk farther to the work and to stores.
-Take the stairs instead of the escalator and stairs instead of elevators.
-Physically get up to change the channel on your t.v.
-If you work in an office and you have a chance to keep your hands busy, buy a hand exerciser or an stress ball to squeeze on.
-Take air breaks and get a quick walk outside if you have a 10-15 break in your day.
-Try to make your outings with friends revolve around some form of physical activity and then follow it with going out to eat if going out to eat was the only thing you did before.
-Get up and dance to that funky beat you hear on a television commercial--it may look kooky but it sure is fun!! (this suggestion is thanks to my boyfriend who does this all the time!)
-Go to the park at least once in a while and play--even though you are an adult--bring a frisbee or go on the swings!
-Stretch while at work in your chair or while at home on the computer...
-Use an alternate form of transportation i.e. bike, walk, run-- other than your car to get to where you want to go.
-Participate in charity events where you donate money but are required to walk, run, skip, exercise for charity (my friend and I drew up a whole summer calendar of these one year and did over 20 in one summer--we were so fit and we donated so much to charities)
-If you get dropped off or given rides somewhere, ask them to drop you off a bit farther away from the front door so that you can get more exercise
-Place your telephone or alarm clock (if you can do it) in a room where you can still hear it but you have to hustle to get to it (if this is manageable)
-Carry your bags to the car when grocery shopping if you don't have too many bags OR park far away from the buggy return and then sprint the buggy back once you have put them in your car!


That's all I can think of for now. Can anyone think of anything to add to the list?

My boyfriend wants to go walk to the store, so gotta go!

So glad to see you here. Cjunk...you are very smart...any kind of movement is better than none and if you keep the muscles active they will continue working for you when you are lying around. I just finished my biking...stationary...did 25 minutes...7km and burned 250 cal...its getting easier and easier and I already feel my legs firming up. On the food side...I ate chocolate candy from halloween:( but I still kept within my 1500 cals so not too uspet about it...its just a worry point for me cause when I eat chocolate...its a bouncy point for me to go on a binge and clean out the pantry..if ya no what I mean:yikes:

Hey LadyRider welcome back and welcome to the our new thread.
I took your advice tonight so I took one serving/portion of my food and when I was done eating...I still wanted a bit more but I waited and sure enough...I wasnt hungry anymore...so thank you for that bit of info....cause otherwise I probably would have eaten a bit more unecessarily.

http://www.global-fitness.com/ I just recently stumbled onto this site and it has all sorts of calculators...to help you fine tune you diet and excercise...depending on age, activity level, height and other bits of info...it will tell you what you body burns on a regular basis...very interesting..worth a look

Also I often use aromatherapy because I believe it can affect your brain...like when you have cravings...I use bergamot: its helps to regulate the appetite of compulive eaters....like me. Other essential oils good for dieters are: clary sage, cajeput and patchouli....these last three essential oils help with the compulsion to overeat or binge eat. So whenever I feel the uncontrollabe urge...I light up my difuser and burn either of these oils and it calms me down and takes away the urgency to put large quantities of food in my mind.

Well I think this is it for now. Take care

cyan

Hello Cyan, LadyRider and Cjunk. Hey Cjunk you beat me here. I just left a reply for you on Cyan's other thread to meet us here. Looks like I need another kick in the behind to get me moving faster!LOL
Great place you have here Cyan, feels like home. Now we can all get down to business and take these pounds off.
Everyone has posted some really good tips. LadyRider, when I first started out I thought all I had to do was cut back on my eating. I didn't see any results. But when I added an exercise program to my plan the results came. You offered some great tips.
Cjunk, thanks for the tips. I do a few of those already, like the dancing one to everything. It may look silly but hey it burns calories and keeps me fit. You listed some other ones that I will give a try.
Alittle about me, I'm Annie, I'm in my late 40's. Married, I have two children. Working hard to acheive a better and healthier lifestyle. Breaking some old eating habits and developing some healthy ones.
Meal planning seems to be my headache. But adapting as time goes on.
Tips on eating, I always make sure I have more vegetables on my plate than meat. The portion of meat I consume is no larger than the size of my palm and no thicker than 1 1/2 inches. Limit portion sizes, I follow the food pyramid faithfully. Since I've been dieting I only consume chicken, turkey or fish as my meat source. And water is a big part of my life now. I carry it wherever I go.
I exercise 3 times a day for 30 minute sessions. My calorie intake ranges from 1200 to 1500, usually closer to 1200. I have elimanated all sweets, soft drinks from my diet. So far I've been able to lose 16 pounds. I started my diet on Sept. 15th of this year. I have a lot to learn and any tips or advice would be greatly appreciated. I've done pretty good so far, Sunday was my worst day so far. Felt alittle depressed and started losing focus of my goals. I know that we all have those days, we're human. It's great to be able to come here and get support from others. We're all in this boat together, and we're in the right place now for that support.
Thanks Cyan for all the help you have given me. If any of you need a kick in the behind to get you focused again just call on Cyan. Thanks for this thread and group you started. We're going to make it. Stay Confident everyone and stay strong through the holidays.

Thanks Cyan for the link. I will check that out. The last link you posted was a great info site.
Hope everyone has a nice evening. As for me, it's time to climb on my bike and burn some calories. Talk with everyone later.
Stay Confident.

Hi everyone,

Back from my walk/shopping excursion. Starting to snow out there...(I am in Ontario, Canada).

Cyan, I am glad to hear about your cycling. 7kms in 28 minutes is impressive!

Hey LadyRider, your portion control is a good idea, but I do find myself craving seconds at times and going for them when I try that method. So I guess that I am not sure if it makes me eat more or eat less, but I am so affected by psychological things I even have my alarm clock set too fast!

Hi Annie, I was going to send you a reply to this thread when I got back from the store but you did beat me to it! I guess it is me who has to get the butt in gear!!

I too use aromatherapy at times but most of what I have is for relaxation like lavendar/mandarin combos etc. So I think I may go out and buy some of the ones that you have suggested and give them a try.

Does anyone have hints for PMS time when I seem to crave fried or starchy foods??? Try not to gasp, but today I had to actually chant---"I will not stop at McDonalds" as I passed by it on my way home! I am sure if anyone heard me they would think I was nuts! The cravings are much stronger for those foods this time of the month.

I have a tip on a low cal, low fat meal I sometimes eat when I have overindulged on too many calories and am still hungry--spaghetti squash. It is tasty, filling and also versatile. A friend introduced me to it and there has been no turning back. It actually comes out like strands of spaghetti!

I also find that if I can make a commitment with someone that I will do an activity and they will do an activity and then meet up later to check in that this helps me keep my end of the bargain. Anyone up for that for tomorrow night? I would love to go swimming but if someone else can commit to an activity then I will more than certainly go so that I have no excuse for changing my mind. Any takers???

Ok Cjunk your are on....here it is...if you go swimming...I will do my power yoga....I promise! I will do it at 7pm...should be finished my 8pm So I will post sometime after that!

Annie your call name Determined Annie is very fitting cause sticking to 1200 cals...for me right now...is impossible...my hats off to you....I would be salivating if I ate so few calories...for real.
And three times per day? at 30 minutes....WOW WOW WOW

I can only manage once per day...but tonight, I did some weight lifting ...I worked out my arms..I have these ankle weights but I strapped them on my writsts...it works! Oh I have a tip...kinda secret I have to motivate me to get on the bike:s: I put on my walkman and I fantasize about being a rockstar on stage...I know very embarassing or I imagine that I am on a hot date with Keanu Reeves and I loose myself in that fantasy and before I know it, it 25 minutes later and I forgot I was peddling away...I swear this works....it makes me want to get away...the music blocks out the noise and puts me in the zone and then my imagination takes over....you gotta try this. Ok dont laugh too much but I figure if its gonna get me on the bike...I will try it:lol:

I know what you mean Cjunk...cravings during my period can be real bad...once in university...I ate a whole family package of lifesavers and a jumbo aero chocolate in a space of 15 minutes...I just shoved everything into my mouth. So what I do usually if I am really craving something and its my time of the month... I just wind up having it...but I put in extra time excercising. I have learned that if I dont satisfy my craving with that particular food, I eat everything else to try to avoid that food and in the end wind up eating that food too. So skip all the other food and just eat the one you really want and savor it.

Ok now, I am shutting down my computer for the evening

Hello again, thought I would check in one last time this evening. Sounds like we are getting a motivated group going. I sure would like to participate in your idea Cjunk. The only exercise program I'm involved in at the time is getting on my stationary bike and riding until my legs and arms feel like they can't take it anymore. Hey Cyan, you're not too far off from my little secret too. We won't tell a soul about your secret. Sometimes I will put in music videos as I ride the bike. I get all consumed with watching them. You ladies don't laugh at me ok, but my niece left some Nsync videos here a while back. She was really into that group, not anymore though. Last night I desparately needed something to get my attention off my exercising. So I put in one of their concert videos. Don't laugh at me, I was totally consumed with watching them strutting and dancing around the stage. Such energy they have. Hey we all do all sorts of things to get us through this don't we? I always listen to music when I exercise. Watching TV doesn't do it for me. Unless it's a music video or something like that. Most of the time I have the stereo turned up loud, my family knows it's my exercise time. But occassionally I will put my headphones on so I don't disturb others in the house. My son doesn't especially like some of the music I exercise to. Shakira is one my favorites, very high energy songs on the CD I have. When I play that one, he will come in the room and say, would you please put the headphones on, if I hear that CD one more time I'm going to scream.
Cyan, it's been hard lowering my calorie intake to 1200. At times it has been very rough. But I started gradually and finally got my intake down to 1200. I've had the most results at 1200. I leave out the sweets, etc. and make up that calorie switch to more veggies, protein, fiber and fruit. Drinking water seems to help with the hunger cravings. But most of the time I do ok on 1200 calories. Yep, I am determined to reach my goals, and stay with them for a lifetime. I've been trying to get myself motivated to exercise more at one time so I can cut out one of my exercise sessions. So tomorrow night I will join you and Cjunk with an activity planned. I will try to stay on the bike for 45 minutes instead of 30. This is going to be hard. Hope I can find some more interesting videos to watch. Good idea Cjunk, we'll report tomorrow evening after we have all finished.
Well remember I was having a hard time yesterday with cravings, etc. Last evening I gave in and went to the store and bought some bagels and creme cheese. I used to eat those by the tons. I needed a change in my breakfast menu. I have been eating oatmeal or some bran cereals for breakfast. So this morning I had a new outlook with just a change in my breakfast. I got the small bagels, couldn't find any wheat ones. And I bought the fat free creme cheese. So this morning I had half a bagel(70 calories) and a tablespoon of fat free creme cheese(15 calories) an orange(60 calories) and two 12oz glasses of water. I was content with a nice change for breakfast. I've never been a big breakfast eater so it's been difficult forcing myself to eat in the mornings. But it does help to eat breakfast when you are dieting. Cuts way down on the eating frenzy at lunchtime.
That sounds so familiar Cjunk, except with me I am telling myself that about donut shops on the way home. I love pastries. You keep up the good work and just drive on by those fast food places. Just look at the charts on this forum about the calorie and fat content they serve in some of those places. I would rather be able to go home and eat a lot of things I like instead of one burger and be healthier for it in the long run. The only thing I craved during that time was Chocolate, and then more chocolate. A cashier that checked my groceries out one time told me that she could always tell when women were approaching that time of the month because she said they always had tons of chocolate bars. I think she was right. Cyan can help you more with the cravings than I can. I go for water when I have a craving or baby carrots, it's like I just need to chew on something :lol: One of these days my family will find me out in the yard chewing on a tree limb or something :dizzy:
Well I need to stop rambling. Glad to see that the group is feeling motivated, let's keep it going. Because by the time Thanksgiving gets here I for sure will be out in the yard chewing on a tree limb.
Cjunk, we don't get snow here very often. That must be a beautiful sight. The couple of times it has snowed here people went nuts, no one could drive on the roads. Everything shut down. I would love to have a white Christmas. Must be beautiful to enjoy something like that.
Goodnight All.

Hi everyone!

I logged on to see if I have any takers for tonight and I was so excited to see that I do!!! It has been so long since I have gone swimming that I think I will enjoy it. Before I hurt my shoulder I used to swim for about 1hour straight 4-5 days per week, so I guess it is pretty obvious why I put on weight when I stopped because I haven't been able to find another exercise I like as much. It may be a bit of emotional turmoil for me because the physio people say that I have to start with only 1/4 of what I did before of any shoulder activity to ease my way into it. So I guess the flutter board will be my friend for the rest of the workout.

You all motivated me so much I decided that I will go to the aquafit class beforehand and then do a short lengths swim because of the shoulder thing. It all starts at 8:00 and ends at about 9:30 so I should post around 10pm. I expect to hear all about your workout adventures when I log on!!

Cyan, I went to that website and tried one of the surveys and found out that I am really lacking in some areas of diet, and exercise, and I knew it just by reading the questions alone--even before the writeup--thanks! I am determined to work towards that so I wrote down the areas and am going to try and improve on each area per week. This week my focus will be increase water consumption and eat breakfast every day (once in a while I skip it). Also I need to pick up some small weights to incorporate more weight bearing exercise. I have a circuit training video at home which is good and uses a 5lb dumbell for the workout. It is actually pretty hard and I had been doing it without weights!


LadyRider, keep up the great work. Your ability to keep going on your plan is continued inspiration to us all and I love to hear about it because it motivates me to keep it up, and it doesn't feel near as impossible for me. I have been trying to eat more slowly and not in front of the TV so that I am getting full faster and it seems to work.

Annie and Cyan your music and exercise combos are excellent and made me smile and giggle--in a good way! I will think of you both as I dance to my commercials with my boyfriend and maybe you guys inspired me to put a walkman on my Christmas list! If I had only known all of the fun I was missing out on I would have bought one sooner!

A little note on my newly supportive guy. He didn't really care at first about my whole diet and exercise kick, but he is starting to notice the lifestyle change. He will pick us up dinner sometimes but stop in somewhere and get something like sushi from the grocery store for me because he knows I am serious. He even joins in on my pilates and aerobics tapes sometimes when I do them and looks so cute and funny when he does. It has been such a nice change. It was his idea to walk to the store. He has mentioned that I am happier and have more energy. I think the whole thing is bringing us much closer. For so long I have been whining about my shoulder pain but I don't really do that anymore because I have something else to focus on and it is positive. It has taken over a month of little or no support but now he has done a full 360 and I really appreciate it so much.

Talk to you all after our exercise tonight!

Hi I justed wanted to let you all know that it have been very positive to know that you guys are there....working hard, eating right and having such a good attitude about it. Honestly, it inspires me to do the same. When I know that you girls are doing your best, its truly makes me try my best. Ok gotta get back to work....until after the excercise



cyan

Hello to All, just checking in to wish everyone a great day. I'm looking forward to tonight's planned activity. You have a great attitude for success Cjunk. You hang in there, time is the best healer of all. Glad to hear that the new guy in your life is becoming more supportive, it really does make a difference in life when they are. Makes your struggles seem alittle lighter.
Cyan, I guess we will have the music going tonight, I will definitely have to find some that will carry me through 45 minutes of that bike riding. It will be fun, glad we have some motivation going between us all.
LadyRider, hope your day is going well. Come and post often with us.
That's it for now, busy day today. Talk with you ladies later on.
:grouphug:

Wow! I just checked in to see how everyone was doing and the positive energy you all are emitting is awesome!
Cjunk, swimming is a great way to exercise! I wish I had a pool to do laps in.
OK, Annie, Cyan … your biking stories have gotten me motivated. I jog 2 – 3 miles five mornings a week, but tonight I’m going to join you two and climb onto that old stationary bike with the tiny uncomfortable seat, plug the mp3 player into my ears and ride that sucker! I know I’ll never make 45minutes, but hey, 30 will do, don’tcha think?
I’ll check in after my ride, about 9pm Eastern time …us older ladies have to get our beauty sleep, ya know.

Some ideas: Brush your teeth when you get a craving, the taste of the toothpaste will wipe out the craving.

Try to find another way home that won't take you past the donut shop or McDonalds, especially on those vulnerable days.

Together we Will succeed!
:cb:

Hi everyone, I just came across this thread and I thought I would try to see if I can jump on in!
:cb:
I have been battling the bulge, for 12 years! But realistically for 3 weeks straight now. Doing it the right way. I think now it is time to really get off the rump and start working out. I just need some extra motivation:cp:

Hope you will invite me in, would love to get motivated.

here is a great site that I found.
www.fitday.com

And here is my daily quote:
If you are doing your best, you will not have time to worry about failure.

- Robert Hillyer
Keep up the good work everyone.
:high: :high: :high:

Hello reina-mia...welcome aboard. Just a quick note for now cause I am getting ready to do the power yoga...but will be back later to post my accomplishments. Be back soon

cyan

:wave:Hello all:wave:
You all have gotten me motivated tonight. Can't make up mind as to what I'm going to do. Bike or some kind of workout tape? Definitely going to do something for at least 20 minutes longer if possible since the kids are up and about.
Thanks!

Hi Reina-mia

Happy to have you join us and welcome! Keepin' it brief for now because I am heading to the pool for my aquafit/swim. I will reply back at around 10 to check in to see if we all met the exercise challenge for tonight!! Gotta run!

-Cjunk

Yea! I did it! I put down the book, got off my duff and rode the bike for 30 minutes. Got off all sweaty and feelin' good! that makes 2 exercise sessions today.:strong: But I've gotta tell ya ... my stationary bike is really a road bike on a stand. If I'm going to ride that thing more often I'm going to have to get one of those wide comfy seats. Parts of me are numb that I KNOW aren't supposed to be!
:wave: Welcome Reina-mia and Hi ya PreciousOne ! If you're looking for encouragement you've come to the right place.
I'm looking forward to reading tomorrow morning what form of exercise you decided to do, and how everyone else did with our exercise challenge.

Cyan, did you really do one hour of power yoga? Excellent!

Hi Cyan, Annie, LadyRider and welcome Reina-mia and Precious One.

I am back from my workout!!

Great work on the cycling LadyRider! I think we are all such a good influence on each other.

I headed to the local rec. centre pool as planned and tried the aqua fit class for the very first time tonight before doing some lengths. What an eye opener! I am exhausted--in a good way! We used bits of noodle for extra resistance for our arms and it was basically a full half and hour of aerobics in the water with lots of resistance. It was excellent!! My shoulder handled it well a lot of the exercises had us crouch down in the water and sprint while moving arms in various directions--so it was very supported by the water. I recommend this to anyone with injuries. Now I have no excuse for not working out. I found out the aquafit runs every Monday to Thursday, costs only $2.00 per class or only $70.00/yr for an unlimited pass, and includes any swim time afterwards (up to 1hr after class). There were about 25 men and women in the class of all age ranges and body types. I found it much harder than regular aerobics.

Afterwards, I swam 25 lengths---not too many but trying to take it easy and only do 1/4 of what I used to do like the physiotherapists have recommended. My shoulder is a bit tender but not too bad. We will see tomorrow I guess. Then I went to the warming pool afterwards and let the jets hit it a bit. Got to meet many of the people of my neighbourhood too!!

So I guess the recommendation is this: check out any local recreation centres, they are cheap, provide good workouts and opportunity to socialize. I think I will do it more.

How did everyone else's workouts go? Cyan, how was that power yoga? I just started taking yoga last year and love it. Unfortunately even yoga with modifications is a bit rough on the shoulder so it is a hiatus time for me--downward dog is not that easy anymore (not that it ever was).

Annie, how was the cycling? Precious One, did you do an activity tonight like you mentioned?

Thanks for meeting the challenge with me tonight everyone. It really got me motivated to realize that there were more options than my narrow mind had been looking for. I am on the road to the old healthy me!

Oh, by the way, dodged the pizza they had at work today and opted for my spaghetti squash for lunch but ended up having a piece of someone's homemade cinnamon bun (only a small piece) and it was delightful and I think well worth the exercise to burn it off. Even with the cinnamon bun I have had under 1500 calories today, so I think I am fine.

Anyone got any challenges?

Talk to you all soon, Cjunk

Hi everyone! Love this new thread! Dont have time to post much tonite and working late again tomorrow nite too but soon as possible I'll be in here with everyone. Thanks to all of you for the ideas and encouraging words. Still drinking a ton of water but not doing so great on eating right. Gettin motivated just reading in here tho..Thanks!! Hope to get back here soon. Til then, ya'll keep up the good work!!

Hey girls...I did my power yoga and my tomorrow, the DOMS will set in...delayed onset muscle soreness...ouch, I hope its not as bad as the first time I did power yoga...I walked around like a
T-Rex with my arms tucked underneath my armpits....:lol:

Anyway, Cjunk you are amazing...just plain ole amazing....You have had an excellent day ...the attitude, the excercise and the diet...just a textbook example of how its done...kudos on you...once again a great source of inspiration for me.

Welcome Precious one...so glad you are joining us...how did the excercising go?

LadyRider...two sessions of excercise?!?!?:) You rock girl...and on a road bike on a stand...ladies this is sure determination to make a healthy life change...you see, there are no excuses when you want to do something and you have proven it tonight...most people would say, I dont have a stationary bike....but not you...kudos on you...you are a source of inspiration for me too.

MikkiG....So happy you joined us here...I know about the eating...thats the hardest thing for me to do...is eat below or at 1500 cals per day....sooooooo hard....the excercising believe it or not is much easier...but food...a whole other story...but just keep trying...if you fall today, get up, dust yourself off...dont beat yourself up over it and move on...try again and again and again until you get it right.

Oh Cjunk...the downward dog is hard especially in ashtanga yoga..power yoga..cause they make you hold that position...I soluted the sun so many times tonight that am feeling dizzy:lol:

Hey Annie...hope tonight went well and if per chance it didnt...post about it and we will walk you through it and perhaps sit you on that bike.

Hugs to everyone and thanks for inspiring me to work out, eat better and stick to it

cyan

First of all a big welcome to reina_mia and Precious One :) You have come to the right place for support and motivation. Glad you've joined us. Stick around, things will get very interesting as time goes on. Lots of challenges I'm sure. We're an eager group, very determined to reach our goals. With the help of each other we're on our way already.

A big welcome to Miki :), I'm really happy to see that you've joined us. Any thoughts or tips you may have would be very much appreciated. We can use all the help we can get.

Ok everybody, I'm so proud of everyone that took the challenge tonight and you all did great. :bravo:
As for me, you all put me to shame. :( I didn't make my 45 minute challenge. I could only last 38 minutes. But I'm looking on the bright side, that is 8 minutes longer than I usually stay on the bike during 1 session. So the way I look at it, I gave it my best and it's a lot better than I usually do. In my way of thinking the challenge helped me a great deal. Made me push myself just alittle bit further. For some reason during that last 5 minutes I could swear I felt Cyan's foot kicking me in the behind. :lol:
LadyRider, so very proud of your accomplishment tonight. I've been using this stationary bike for around 5 weeks now and you were only 8 minutes behind me. Something tells me with your motivation you will pass me in no time. Keep up the great work. And believe me, I do know what you mean about that bike seat. Mine is just like that. When I first started out on it I had to put a piece of foam rubber under my behind, I felt like I had blisters.
Cjunk, sounds like you had a very rewarding night. You definitely have the will to reach your goals. Your session tonight sounded very interesting. Unfortunately I don't know how to swim. You ladies stop laughing at me. I just never learned how, wish I did. Swimming is one of the best excercises there is. Builds great muscle tone. (also keeps you from drowning ;) ) I would sink like a weight. Keep up the good work Cjunk.
Cyan, what is power yoga? Sounds very interesting but very complicated. Sounds like you had a great work out session. A whole hour of working out, you must have felt great afterwards. I think these challenges are a great idea.
Precious One and reina_mia, did you two come up with an exercise tonight? Hope you had great success.
Cjunk, I agree, we need another challenge going. What do the rest of you think we should try next? Maybe we can switch back and forth from exercising to diet in our challenges. One day can be exercise challenges, then one day it can be with food, or should I say lack of! ;) Sounds like everyone is having difficulties with eating balanced meals with lower calories. I think it might be a good idea to maybe put a challenge to each other about what we ate for 1 day. For example eating from the food pyramid, the right amount of servings per day. Don't know if this all makes sense. Maybe we can help each other to cut down on calories and eat the proper foods.
For example it would be sorta like, how many servings of veggies did you consume today, fruits, etc. It won't be a contest to see who does the best, it will just be a way to get everyone on track. Possibly help others to see what they could eliminate from their diet and what they need to add. I know Cjunk was talking in one of her replies about the website that Cyan had posted and how she felt she was needing to readjust her intake of certain things. Maybe this could be a way for all of us to readjust our eating habits.
This is just a suggestion, it probably sounds pretty boring, especially after all of us just spent a session tonight working our behinds off. But diet is a big part of it also. Maybe we could even have a challenge about what foods we were able to resist during the day, or how many glasses of water we were able to get down opposed to other beverages we consumed. The hardest part of my diet was being able to readjust what I was eating and how much of it I was consuming. We all have those days where we know we shouldn't eat something that is going to add unhealthy weight to us. Maybe this could be a start to getting even more healthy in our food choices plus our exercise challenges. LadyRider and I both keep a journal of what we eat. It's a great thing to do. I write down everything I consume in one day, even if I have 1 jelly bean I write it down. I learned a lot about what I was consuming in the beginning by doing this. I learned where I was making mistakes at. I allow a certain amount of calories for each food group that I eat. Certain veggies you can have quite a bit of, gives you a very full feeling. I always have more veggies on my plate than meat. There are other sources of protein besides meat. I always felt that I had to have lots of meat in my meals. Guess it was the way I was raised. The meat was the center of the meal. That's been one of the hardest things for me, cutting back on the portion of meat I consume. So I learned to add more veggies, I consumed less calories but still felt just as full as when I used to eat a plateful of meat. Reminds me back when I could eat a whole steak, a big baked potatoe with all the trimmings, a big salad topped with everything, and then my favorite part, dessert. I would feel stuffed and uncomfortable. Something should have told me then, I was defintely overeating. Sorry, going on and on as usual. That should be a challenge you ladies give to me. To see if I can post a short reply. :lol:
I'm up for any type of challenge. Let's keep the motivation going. So far we're off to a great start. So, does anyone else have any ideas on a challenge? We can stick with the exercise ones, maybe one day later on we can do something concerning diet. Or maybe even do both in one day. So let's hear those challenges.
Good night all, Stay Confident.
:grouphug:

Good Morning All,

Congratulations on meeting the exercise challenge! Like most or all of you I am sore today but with a smile. Movin' a little more slowly. In general feeling like I am physically lacking but part of that may be the after affects of the flu shot I had yesterday too.

Mikki, great to hear from you again. Cyan, awesome work on the yoga, Annie, you did more time on your bike than I can ever do--great work and LadyRunner, well, lets say that your energy astounds me and inspires me all at the same time!

I am with Annie and up for a food challenge. It will be especially hard for me because when my physical self feels yucky my tendency is to seek out comfort food like Macaroni and Cheese and then regret it later. What if everyone picks one area of their diet that is a challenge and then reports back tonight? I love fruits and veggies so that has never been hard for me but I am lucky if I can get in more than 2 glasses of water per day. So my challenge will be to drink 6-8 glasses today! Oh, and NO fatty COMFORT FOODS---YIKES! My boss will probably hate me for all of the bathroom breaks...

Anyone else want to share their challenge?

My girlfriend got me a guest pass at her gym on Friday night. She lives pretty far away but she keeps telling me about a "Boot Camp" class she takes run by old military officers which kicks butt!! I have a feeling I am gonna regret being interested...

Talk to you all tonight!

We can do it!!!!
Cjunk


:flow2:

You're right Annie...lets do a food challenge diet. Ok my weakness at the moment is halloween chocolate that was left over...to be exact mini oh henry chocolate bars...I swear those suckers call my name out from inside the cupboard in the kitchen on the second floor of my house!!!:lol: So My food challenge will be to not eat the oh henry mini's for one week...to start...this will be very hard for me girls...so I will need your support. I figured I would focus on one small item because if I try to change too much, well ...it all blows up in my face and I go on a binge...which brings me to another challenge I had in mind....How about a psychological challenge...by this I mean...have any of you every really figured how you gained the weight....Kinda like a Dr Phil question....So the question is: What is your relationship with food? For me, food is like a kind mother comforting me when I am stressed. I have noticed that I deal with problems by eating. Anything that angers me, scares me, upsets me....I eat. I need to change that or else weight loss will not be achieved...and I will never loose weight...I can maintain my weight because of excercise but I will never loose it cause of all the extra calories I eat when I am upset, angry, and even bored! So hope this gets you thinking about what kind of relationship you have with food.

Until then, talk to you later.

cyan

A quick note to jump start the challenge. I drank my first glass of water and filled a water bottle up for on the way to work! Working 11-7 today which is a challenging shift for food because I get lunch at 3pm. Anyone know how large one glass is?? I think I have such a hard time meeting the water requirments because I drink such big glasses and I think they are small!

Okay, here is my quick Dr. Phil response:

There is a pretty logical reason why I put on weight, but before I did there was a lot to improve on with my relationship with food. My injury has kept me from doing the sports I loved and I was doing at least 5 hours a week of these sports. When I got injured, I kept eating the massive calories I enjoyed before but I was not burning them off. I am also in my early thirties and my metabolism has significantly slowed down so much so that each unhealthy thing I eat shows up on me. It never used to before.

My relationship with food is that I turn to it for comfort and I really enjoy eating and like the taste of a lot of things for fun. My family has always had "eating outings"--what I mean is that we have gatherings specifically focussed on eating. So I have associated getting together with friends to eating out with friends. My friends and I are all trying to get out of this association and trying to meet for exercise--hence the climbing gym. My parents are facing health issues due to weight and lack of exercise and have been proactively working at it and now schedule family exercise outings where maybe we eat afterwards.

Also, my relationship with McDonalds specifically is that each year we had a 2 week vacation as children where I got to spend real quality time with my dad and he would always take us to McDonalds. So I associate McDonald's with vacation and quality time. Whenever I am missing that escape, I tend to gravitate there. So I know I am heading to burnout when I crave a lotta McDonalds!!! Time for vacation!!! My dad is now retired and I do spend quality time with him so I know it is the vacation thing.

Thanks for the challenge Cyan...I will think some more...

Hi Cyan, I forgot to post a quick challenge and suggestion for you:

Can you give your chocolate to someone else for one week? We suggest to smokers who are trying a test run quit to remove the cigarettes from their area so that they can reduce any undue temptations. I would take them for you because I am severely allergic to chocolate and wouldn't be able to eat them anyway if I lived closer! You can get them back at the end of the week and treat yourself to one.

Also, we have a lot of smokers who smoke when stressed and we challenge them to come up with other things that they can do to manage their stress without smoking. If they are able to find a doable alternative then they tend to be successful but it takes practice. Any idea as to what might work for you instead of food?? This is my challenge to you!!!

Well what might work for me instead of food....I am trying to work out instead of reach for food...but its hard...I really do enjoy the taste of food, the smell, the textures in my mouth...pretty sad but it's true...Food is like a safety net...I really need to figure out a way to Deal with everyday stress in a more positive way ...so I think excercise is the way to go...I really do enjoy getting on my bike in the evenings...and hopefully over time, when I get stressed out, I will get on the bike to unwind or if I am away from the bike...go out on walks. Its an ongoing journey for me, I have been binge eating for so long now that it has become a way of life for me....I guess I am lucky that my binge eating in terms of quantity of food is still controlled but I go through cycles where after 8pm...I will eat about 500 cals of food...so basically I am sabotaging myself each time I do this...cause juring the day, I do so well with the food...and I am well on my way to staying within my range of 1500 cals but by most evenings...I have consumed a total of 1800 to 1950 cals total...acording to Fitday...I track everything I eat there.

I will give my candy to my dad to store in the car trunk....:( Thanks for the advice and the challenge...If I have any more psycological break threws... I will share them in this forum.

Cyan

This is what she says about successful dieting

MORE PRACTICAL ADVICE FROM OPRAH


Oprah's thoughts about getting on a weight loss plan and sticking to it.


Give Positive Feedback.
Oprah: One of the keys to sticking to any plan is to give yourself good feedback. "High five" yourself for your triumphs over food addiction every day. Switch from rewarding yourself with food to rewarding yourself with approval.


Own the Pain.
Oprah: The pain you will feel related to dealing with your issues is not going to be any worse than dealing with obesity. You've already survived the worst pain you're going to feel…and you deal with it every day. Once you own your emotional pain, you'll be free of it. You'll be able to live your life for the first time. I guarantee that.


Forget the Diet.
Oprah: Fat people are the most experienced people in the world about dieting. You need to recognize that it's not about the food. Focusing on the food is why you haven't been successful. You have to challenge the pain that's causing you to be addicted to the comfort of food.


Expect More from Yourself.
Oprah: The truth of the matter is, the world expects less from you when you're overweight. Everyone can put you in a "fat box." You feel you are not worthy to claim victory in your own life. Nobody can give you that. You have to give it to yourself. You have to make that your job instead of going on another diet.


Commit to Happiness.
Oprah: The real spiritual work of your life is to love yourself. Recognize that you were created as a human being who is worthy of happiness. The work begins with loving yourself and accepting happiness in your life. You can't just decide to feel that way—you have to work through the issues that keep you from feeling that way.

:wave: Good Morning Everyone!
Good to see you here, MikiG!
We are growing into such a great goup. There have been so many good posts this morning I don't know where to start!
Way to Go Cjunk! I've always heard water therapy is the best all round exercise because it gives you resistance and yet supports your body. That plus the social interaction makes it sound like a good option for you.
I felt really good after riding last night and have decided to ride the bike on the two days I don't run, so I'm heading out this week to get a better seat. I've also started doing a little bit of upper arm exercises with dumb bells.
Cyan, congratulations on giving your chocolate to your dad. You can do this - just remember - one day at a time.
Cjunk, Loaning out the chocolate instead of throwing it away is a good idea. If we are going to succeed at our new life style, we need to be able to face our cravings and control them, not let them control us. If we try to never eat chocolate (or whatever) again, we are setting ourselves up for frustration and failure. But if we choose not to eat it today, then we are in control. So much of our success is determined by our state of mind and the messages we give ourself. (did I mention I'm a psych nurse? ;) ) If we can block the negative thoughts and replace them with "I can" or "I will" positive thoughts we will have won half the battle.

Ok, I'm off the soap box now. ;)

Annie, I'll bet your bike works your upper body as well as your legs. That's much harder than mine which only works my legs. Don't discount yourself by thinking you didn't make your goal, give yourself FULL credit for riding longer than you have before.

I associate food with the good times my sisters and I spent sitting around mom's kitchen table eating, talking and laughing. I also use it to deal with anger, fear, frustration ,celebrations....you name it! I try to talk to myself and say, "ok, I'm _____ (fill in the blank) but eating isn't going to change anything. What can I do to make myself feel better without eating? Sometimes just talking to myself will make me stop and think of an alternative to eating. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't, but I'm determined to keep trying.
I really like the idea of dieting as well as exercise challenges!
You guys have come up with several great ones. I know I don't drink enough water or eat enough veggies. So, Today I will drink eight 12oz glasses of water and eat 5 portions of veggies.

Together we Will Succeed!

Hello to all, hope everyone is doing great today. Great challenges Cjunk. I've always heard that a minimum of 8- 8 oz glasses of water per day. I drink mine in 12 oz size. I've never been a water drinker, so when I first started my lifestyle change that is one of the first things I changed. I've always been a consumer of soft drinks or juices high in sugar content. I thought as long as I was drinking juices I was doing great. Now I eat fruit instead of drinking fruit juices. An orange or a tangerine takes the place of my old orange juice that was loaded with extra sugar. To start drinking water I had to add a lemon slice, I could not stand the thought of just drinking water. Now I drink it without anything, it's just part of my day now. I used to grab a soft drink, now I grab a glass of water or bottle of water. And it quenches your thirst a lot better also. You can also start off by drinking a sparkling water with a very small amount of fruit juice added to it. But be careful, after a days worth you might be surprised at the calories added up by the fruit juice. I make sure my water is ice cold, I can't stand room temperature water. You're right about that, you will be taking quite a few bathroom breaks. But I've found that over time that won't be as bad.
My challenge would be to see if during the week I can gradually change some of my food choices to ones that have less amounts of sugar. My fat intake is good right now, protein, fruits, veggies, etc. But I would like to see if I can make some choices to eliminate some of the sugar I consume. Sometimes we don't realize how much sugar is in some products. I've always had a problem with sugar consumption, I love desserts. The closest thing I have come to being a dessert since I started my lifestyle change is yogurt. And the one I enjoy has a lot of sugar in it. It has no fat, but has the second highest amount of grams of sugar in it than the others I have compared. I think that's why I love fruits so much, now that I've cut down on sugars in my diet, such as desserts, ice cream, etc. is that I can taste the sugar in the fruit that I so desparetely feel that I need. When I first started out I had huge cravings for sweet foods, so I turned to certain fruits. Bad mistake, I would sit down and consume almost a pound of grapes or several large pears. It's almost a trial and error type thing when you start focusing on healthy foods. You have to research everything about that food choice. I guess you could say instead of me choosing healthy choices I was running around trying to find substitutes for the things I was trying to do without. I have finally reached the point that I know each day what I can consume and what I shouldn't. I learned a lot by keeping a journal. I knew I needed to decrease my calorie intake, and also increase my activities. I had become idle. I knew I couldn't continue eating high amounts of calories and just exercise more. I knew I had to work on both of them. I couldn't continue to keep shoving food in my mouth and then exercise my behind off. I wanted a healthy balance, a healthy diet and a healthy exercise program. Eating healthy shows in the skin, hair, fingernails, etc. It has a lot more to do with than just weight. So I've worked hard at both, first I took a serious approach to changing my eating habits. Then I took on the exercise approach. Overeating gives you very little energy to want to exercise. You just want to sit around and relax. I've never known too many people that have got up from the table after overeating and say hey let's go jog a few miles. Atleast this has been my approach, it's worked for me so far. Plus I want this to be long term, if I had continued eating higher calories each day than I was supposed to and started exercising I don't think I would have the results I have now. I do have rough days though, I won't want to drink water or I will slack off on calorie intake, not eat as much as I should. I have alittle depression at times, get tired of the ordeal I feel that I'm in. I want to get out of that habit, I want to feel that what I'm doing for myself is just as normal as when I used to feel that overeating was just part of my life. It's forming good eating habits that one day will just be part of my life and will come naturally.
I found myself standing in front of the icecream freezer at the grocery store yesterday. I don't want to get into the habit that I feel "oh just alittle bit of this won't hurt me". It's true that it won't, but it goes against what I'm trying to change about myself and my eating habits. Excuses that we give ourselves is the culprit in not losing weight. I will eat this today and exercise more tomorrow. I don't want to live the rest of my life with a yo-yo deal going on. Rewarding ourselves is different. It's an inner praise. I have yet rewarded myself for the weight I have lost. But when I reach my midway goal I'm going to. By then I know that I have learned what a good praise is. It won't be sitting down and eating a whole cheesecake or a pint of icecream. By the end of my last goal, I won't need an inner praise. I will be eating healthy, exercising and will know that I am on the road to a long term healthy lifestyle. The reward I will receive then will be self satisfying to know that I overcame overeating and realized what was wrong in my life. Nothing can be learned quickly that has a long term affect. It's the gradual process that teaches us. And doing it over and over again, day after day, becomes a good habit that will last a lifetime.
To reply to Cyan's thoughts, I think my overeating stems more from wanting to get a happy feeling when eating. Nothing would make me happier in the past to bake a good dessert and know that later that night I was going to enjoy it. I got my inner happiness from planning foods that I was going to eat. I have learned to look in other areas of my life for that happiness. I have become more active. Before all I did was sit around and think about what I could eat next. Something is lacking in life when we do those sorts of things. We need to look inside ourselves and life around us to find the reasons for that. I too would go on binge eating if I became upset about something. It's like I was telling my body it's going to be alright, eat another cookie. I think working through the problems that cause us to be upset or to find ways to occupy our time instead of eating is a big step in the right direction. It's not just body weight, it's also a mental attitude. I feel that everyone that is trying to overcome overeating, should sit down and take a good look at their life. Sometimes the smallest changes can turn your life around for the better. Change the time that you eat, turn off the TV, get more involved in everyday things. Eat smaller meals more frequently. There's nothing worse during a diet than to feel hungry. You won't have good success, all that does is make you go on a feeding frenzy when it is meal time. Make sure you eat breakfast, a small snack later, lunch, another small snack, dinner, another small snack. Make good choices for your meals, and especially for your snacks. Drink plenty of water. Include atleast 30 minutes of exercise each day. And stay active, even if it's getting up and going to look out the window. You don't have to jump all around and do programed exercises or join an expensive gym class. Go for walks, ride a bike, dance, move your furniture around:lol: Exercising involves everything that we do, not just a planned exercise. Get up off the sofa, you're missing out on life. I'm in my very late 40's, I feel I have lost about 6 years of my life sitting around. For those of you that are young that are posting on this thread, take it from this "young" 49'er, you are going about it the right way. Take charge of your life, don't let it slip away. Because as you do get older, your metabolism does slow down. It's harder and harder to lose the weight and get moving when you get some age on you. My kids are grown now, one is getting married in the Spring. Now it's time for me to enjoy making a new life for my husband and I to share now that the kids are grown. To those that do have children and they are leaving the nest, I know you understand what I'm talking about. It's an emptiness you feel, but at the same time you know there's a whole new world out there just waiting to be enjoyed. And I sure couldn't do that with the extra weight and sitting idle. So I have about 23 more pounds to go, sounds simple but it's not. But what I have is determination and that will get me to my goal. And yep, I know there will be more days of standing in front of the icecream freezer, or the bakery, but that's all part of the bad eating habits I've had in my life for a while now. I always ask myself, do you really need that? Isn't there something else that would be just as tasty but not as high in calories that I could choose. So far it's worked.
Hope everyone keeps up the good work. Stay strong and stay confident. You've all been such great support to me, great inspiration to read everyone's thoughts and tips. Let's keep motivated, we can do this together. :grouphug:
Have a great day, I will check in later this evening.

Cyan, I just went back after I posted and saw your post about Oprah, I agree with what she says. She has been on a roller coaster for years. You have to give her credit for sticking with her determination over the years. I really do believe most of her eating disorder revolves around something that lies deep within. I was feeling alittle mixed about my reply, didn't know if I should post some of the things I did about mental attitude and all. But when I read your post about Oprah I decided not to edit mine and leave it like it is. Hope I didn't say anything I shouldn't have. It really is all about mental attitude, if we can get our minds thinking right we are on the right track.
Well I've talked enough for one day, I will check in later this evening.

Annie never second guess yourself...you are right... it is having the right mental attitude that gets you there...you have to want it...you need to device a plan and then like Nike says...just do it.

And your advise about not letting life pass you by... while you sit and look out the window...you are right and thank you for sharing your feelings ...it hit home. I sometimes get sad..mostly due to my mom's illness and I can understand the association between food and happiness. So I have been dreading this but maybe joing a support group for caregiver's of alzheimers might not be a bad thing...instead of using food to support me.

Thanks for not editing your thoughts here in this forum...cause I get what you are saying and most of us have weight problems because we see food as comfort instead nurishment. I have been back living with my mom for three years and I have gone from a healthy 140 pounds to 170....so the proof is in the pudding.

So my chocolates will be in the car trunk tonight..I feel inspired...I can do this...

:D Cyan

Ok, I am so ready for a food challenge. Because I have to be held accountable for what I put in my mouth. :o

You would all be proud.. Because I knew I had to login and put in an update today, after 4 days of hitting snooze on my alarm clock, I finally did it.
I got up this morning and did a full 8 minute workout with Taebo.
:cb:
And I have to admit, I feel really good today.

I did try this week to make my own meals and try to stay within the 1200 calorie range, but it didn't work to well. I am having a hard time with portion control...
So I have decided to go back and get my weekly meals from Seattle Sutton... I really like having their food prepared and ready for me to walk in after work and not have to worry about cooking a 600 calorie meal for me. It is already there.
I did pretty good on the first 2 weeks, with the exception of my one really, really bad day!:fr:
But I got through it, with the help of Precious_One and another buddy of mine!.
After watching Oprah yesterday, (I love her shows on Weight Loss), I get so much motivation after seeing people like that one woman who lost almost 300lbs...My measly 50lb goal, was nothing to her, and I should be nothing to me, as long as I don't think about it.
I have to say, that my renewed outlook of my life and the changes I want to make, finally make me feel good about myself.:cp:
My challenge for the day :crossed: will be 30 minutes of walking, 15 minutes on the glider tonight, and 8 glasses of water!!!!
And I promise I won't lie about it :nose:

I hope you all have a great day, and everyone, Keep up the good work!
:high: :grouphug:

Annie, I have to agree with Cyan. I really like the way you think and wouldn't want you to censor or second guess yourself. As long as we don't critisize each other, I think it's important we be able to talk about our feelings; after all, they are a large part of why we over eat.
Cyan, my heart goes out to you and what you must be going through. Please do consider a support group. No one should have to go through the pain and loss you are experiencing alone.

And on a more cheerful note: CONGRATULATIONS REINA_MIA!! You Go Girl! :jig: :bravo:
If it's any help, I shoot for a daily average calorie count. That way if I over do it one day, I don't feel so guilty; I eat fewer calories the next day and don't feel as if I've jepordized my whole diet. I write down my calorie count at the end of each day and at the end of the week I average it out to see how I did.


:grouphug:

Hi everyone,
Great to read all of the postings. I got so absorbed in them I lost track of time and no time to write a normal one because I really gotta go back and try that aquafit that starts in 15 mins.

That flu shot I think made me feel a bit ill today but I am pushing my tired self to exercise anyway. I know I will feel better for it. Anyone who is reading this and not motivated to move tonight, please get of the couch and join me in some form of activity so that we can pat each other on the back later tonight for our accomplishments!! Oh, and so far I am on 5 --12 ounce bottles of water. Almost there!!!

P.S. Does accidentally sucking in pool water count too???

Cjunk

Just a quick note .... I biked for 27 minutes...burned 300 cals and went the distance of 8.3 km:D

Food wise...did ok until I handed the bag of candies over to Dad....I snuck out three mini bars of oh henry and inhaled them before I could stop myself:( Dont worry, I will try and try again until I get this emotional eating under control.

Thank You LadyRider for your kind words...I do have amazing friends some of which are medical doctors and they are an endless source of support for me...but yes I will be sourcing out a support group dealing with alzheimers....thank you again.

Reina_Mia ....you are amazing...to get up to exercise...kudos on you...I hate getting up early and to exercise...I can see you are one determined lady....How did tonights exercise go? And 50 pounds is not measly:dance: Its plain ole amazing amazing amazing...So please be very proud of yourself for that...its hard enough to loose one pound let alone 50.

Cjunk...I admire your determination....I hope the class went well tonight and I look forward to hearing how it went

Well its getting late and I must go get some zzzzzz

Cyan

Hello All You Motivators!!

I did my aquafit class and also 25 lenghts again tonight. Feeling very low energy today and don't think I pushed myself as much as going through the motions but at least I made it there and I am happy for that!

Annie, I am happy that you share your thoughts and feel it is an honour that you are comfortable to share them with us without the normal day to day censorship we sometimes use with others. It is what makes us so supportive at the core because we can truly understand one another and I thank you for your insights. They are helpful to me personally as I know they are to the group.

Cyan, great work on the exercise! I also gotta say that it's not easy to do what you tried to do with the chocolate bars and yet it sounds like barring the few that got away you put them away for a bit. Yaay! You have a lot of insight as to what you need for yourself in terms of support and I think it is normal to try and cope with such challenging circumstances in a comforting way--but you are now making steps to find a comforting and healthier way (for also taking care of you).

LadyRider, I like your advice. I do the same as you and eat less to compensate for the day before where I felt I overindulged.

Reina-mia, great work on the exercise! Maybe your morning inspirations will rub off onto all of us. I am not a morning person.

By the way guys, I had 6-12 ounce bottles of water today which is a record for me! And two decaf green teas, two decaf coffees...and I floated in the pool! I am meeting my girlfriend as a guest a her gym tomorrow night and then out to dinner and a movie so I will not be able to post until later.

Miki, how are you? What is new?

My promise for tomorrow is not to get any candy or popcorn at the movies and to order something reasonable from the menu tomorrow.

Have a great day everyone and I will touch base probably on Saturday!

Cjunk

Hello All, I'm up late tonight. My schedule kinda ran over tonight. Guess I'm squeezing too much into one day lately. Plus had some unknown circumstances arise tonight. But just wanted to say thanks for the kind words. I also wanted everyone to know that when I do write my thoughts down they aren't directed towards anyone. I am refering to myself when I write about my feelings and a lifestyle change. Like I have mentioned so many times, some things work for some, and others it won't. We can all try all sorts of things, we need to find what works for us. I'm just one of those people that found out early in my lifestyle change that I wouldn't be able to induldge one day and make up for it the next. It doesn't work for me. It gives me too much room to make excuses for overeating and gives me a big reason to go ahead and pig out. It gives me that yo-yo affect. I need balance to go on and motivate myself. I've worked very hard on setting up good eating habits. I want to be in the habit of eating right all the time. It's not that I restrict myself from certain foods, but I do put a limit on how much I consume and I stick to it. I know there are certain foods that I would have a difficult time at stopping at a limit, so for now I avoid those foods. And as time goes on I'm learning that I really don't need those foods in my diet. One of them is donuts, I know I can't stop at eating just one donut, so why even have one. When I think about it, what good are they for my body. All of you have a good plan worked out, whatever works for you stick with it. All of you sound like you are getting healthier as each day passes. So whatever you're doing you're doing great at it. The exercise challenges are great for all of us. Cyan, it takes a lot of will power for you to put those candy bars out of sight. You're doing great, keep up the good work. Cjunk, you are so full of motivation, even with an injury you are right there doing your best and getting out there and taking control of your life. You did great on the water consumption, see that wasn't so bad was it ;) After a few more days of that you won't even think about that you have to drink your water. It will become a habit. A good one to have. LadyRider, I do the same as you. I keep track of everything. Sounds like you have a great plan going, Keep up the good work. Reina_mia, you are an inspiration to us all. First thing in the morning at that. It takes me atleast 20 minutes to even realize I'm awake. About your calorie intake, take that gradually. Don't try to decrease that too quickly. Let your body have time to adjust to the gradual decrease in calories. If not you will end up sick like I was the first week of my lifestyle change. Take things slow, sounds like you have a good plan for reaching your goals. A 1 to 2 pound weight loss a week is healthy, sometimes more than that can be due to muscle loss. And you don't want that to happen. I'm glad you've joined us, you will be a great inspiration and motivation to us all. Please don't challenge us to an early morning exercise challenge, I will lose that challenge for sure.
Well I need to get some sleep. Had a long night tonight, but did manage to get in 42 minutes of bike riding. I will talk with everyone later. I too will probably be missing tomorrow night also. So everyone keep up the good work. Looking forward to seeing how everyone has done by Saturday. I'm going to watch my sugar intake and also ride that bike for 45 minutes. Good luck to everyone else.
Night All. Stay Confident.
:grouphug:

Well, one day was good, 2 days is even better. Ok, where is this energy coming from.....Up at 5:30 again to exercise. This time I did the Richard Simmons Dance. Not bad...

Well, I did my 30 minute walk, but I did get in the glider, and I did drink 4 8oz glasses of water...
I am trying.:o

Cyan: I am a very emotional eater... :tape: So I try to control it, but sometimes it is just a stronger power than I. We will fit this battle together!
I have even repeated that saying I saw somewhere this week and heard on Oprah. Nothing tastes as good as tasting Thin!!!
Can anyone relate to this?
I walked into McDonalds to buy my son a happy mean, before I knew it, I walked out with a mouth full of fries...Not even conscious to the fact, until afterward when I felt crappy....:?: :?: :?:

I have had a few days like that, where I am putting food I know I shouldn't be eating, but physically can't stop myself... I have even caught myself lying to Myself

I think this is what is giving me the determination to fight this battle and overcome this :devil:
I am giving myself a weekend Challenge!!!!!:yikes:
Last weekend was very difficult for me, I drank so much soda, and junk. I refuse to allow myself to do this.. I will eat healty greens and chix and fish all weekend. And drink 8 oz of water each day!

Annie- No early morning exercising, I promise. I need to rest this weekend. Thanks for the advice, I am certainly taking it very slow this time. I don't want to burn out too quickly(past experiences, that is why no diets work for me).

Lady Rider- Calorie counting is alot of work, and that alone tires me out, so I don't want to waste the time to figure out what to eat, so I rather not eat and just suck on some grapes! It has been working.

Ok all, I have decided to stop running into the Local YMCA to weigh myself and take the plunge and buy a scale. Any recommendations?

You all have a good day, and I will try to touch base over the weekend.

Happy Friday my Friends!

:balloons: :grouphug: :grouphug:

Congrats to everyone!
I was able to get on the bike the other night but for only about 10mins kids wanted to ride too. After I put them to bed I did the 8 Minutes that I missed that morning and upped my windsprints from 3 to 4:cp: So I feel good about that!

Haven't been doing much exercise other than the 8 Minutes in the morning but at least that's something.

Got 56oz of water today! Going to TRY to get up in the morning and go for a 30min walk and the 8 mins.

Keep up the good work and take one day at a time!

Hey Girls...last night I didn't binge...I kept to 1500 cals and did not get the urge to stuff my face! And as usual, cycled for 30 minutes, for a distance of 8.8km

Lets hope today goes well...the eating part...I am getting ready to go for a speed walk with my friend. So that should be about an hour of brisk walking...yay!

Hi PreciousOne....isnt exercise addictive! The more you do it, the better you feel and it kinda becomes something to look forward to. What are windsprints? I have noticed that I now crave water...its becoming the norm for me to drink at least 2 liters of water per day...and if I dont get that much...I feel it...my body feels sluggish.

Hi Reina-mia you inspire me...getting up at 5.30 am to exercise...determination is your middle name :lol:
The water will get easier and you will acutally enjoy it...escpecially as you become fitter...you will feel the difference. And I so understand you about the binging...sometimes it is a greater power than me....So I've been doing some research and I now for the last two days have been using Garcinia Cambodgia..a natural herb used to cut the appetite...I take one pill after my evening meal...we'll see how that goes...last night...didnt binge...I'll keep you posted if the garcinia works....you can get it at gnc. Anyway, keep positive and make wise choices

Cjunk, Annie, LadyRider and Mikki....looking forward to hearing from you....I send all of you good energy and a big hug...thanks for being my health nut buddies:grouphug:

cyan

Hi everyone:) My son had an out-of-town ballgame last nite, the nite before I had to work til 7 again, and today ( Sat) I worked from 10 until 4. So needless to say after doing the bare necessities around the house, I havent had as much time as I'd like to get in here. I hate the days I miss. Ya'll have no idea how much I learn from you all and how nice it is to constantly read how there are others who go thru all the hardships that I do concerning weightloss. This is such a great group!

I'm still drinking my water ( lots of it) but still not liking it. haha Not giving up on acquiring that craving for it, tho.

Ok, I dont want to be left out so (cant believe I'm saying this) I give up...Gonna take the exercise challenge. I am going to force myself to do some kind of exercise every day for the next week. Will probably be on my Air Walker. It's a glinder-type machine that works your legs and arms without putting force on your knees by bending them. Very easy to do but within 5 minutes, I"m out of breath. Working long hours isnt going to be an excuse. Even a few minutes is better than none. Just gotta keep telling myself that! ( and ya'll please remind me constantly too k? )

I have another challenge for myself also...and for anyone else out there that is like me in this area. I tend to let the scales judge me rather than just feeling ok when I know Ive eaten right. The first week that I started drinking my gallon of water, I lost 5 lbs. Then just a few days later ( less then a week later) I weighed and the scales showed right back where I started. I was sooo disappointed!! I did weigh again a couple days ago and it just showed 2 more instead of 5. Altho I know weight fluctuates and it can depend on time of day, fluid retention, and all kinds of things, I still tend to let it discourage me. I'll start thinking I've been doing pretty well so I'll weigh hoping to get encouraged if it shows I've lost some. And if I have, I do get encouraged. But if I havent, I go back to thinking I have blown it and will probably never get control so I'll binge or something. Sooo, my challenge to myself is to wait at LEAST 2 weeks before I weigh again. That will be very hard for me. I'm one of these who weighs almost daily. Does anyone else do that? And do any of you do like I do and let the scale determine how you've done instead of going by the actual facts of what you've eaten and how much you've excercised?? I'm also going to write my measurements down tonite and will check them again in 2 weeks. I havent done that yet.

Also, I dont know what "diet" I want to try. You can increase fiber, lower carbs, count calories, keep up with WW points or a million other things. Seems kinda overwhelming to know just what to do. Seems everyone does it differently. Would love for some of you to give me an example of what you eat on a good day...I mean like a meal by meal day, exactly what you have.

I do know I need to totally change the way I eat. I have never liked breakfast. Never have I gotten up hungry. And most days I end up working thru my lunch hour. I would say at least 4 days a week, I dont eat until I get home at nite to cook for my family. So it's not so much as how much I'm eating. It's the choices I'm making. I've always heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it's one that I've almost never eaten. Whew...sounds like another challenge to myself huh? lol I think I'm getting overwhelmed again! Do you all eat breakfast? I know eating 3 healthy meals a day is better than just having one unhealthy one but I seem to have this major feeling of guilt anytime I eat that much even when it's good-for-you foods.

Congrats to all of you who are doing so well on your exercise plans!!!! Maybe soon I'll be able to report that I'm right on track with ya. Going to start trying tonite!

Keep up the good work everyone. And keep the posts coming!! I love them all :)

One more thing....just realized as I think back on things I generally eat, most of the things I REALLY like include things like breads, rice, potatoes, pasta, etc. Macaroni and cheese has always been a favorite, I love spaghetti, I love casseroles like broccoli/cheese/rice, etc...Fettuccini Alfredo....all that stuff. Badddd huh??

:wave:
Hi Everyone! Looks like this has been a busy weekend for all of us, not much time for the old computer.
I'm due to run today but the lazy Kriss is arguing with the helthy Kriss . I'll let you know tomorrow who wins.
reina_mia - you're right, calorie counting is a lot of work, and there are a lot of other ways to eat less. Find the one that works for you. ;) Glad you got the exercise thing going! Keep up the good work, you'll find your groove!
I felt frustrated and deprived yesterday and had an icecream sundae. Darn. Today I will get back on track.

MikiG - boy, you rang a bell for me! Yes I weigh too often - waaaay too often. sometimes several times a day! Just like you, I know weight fluctuates from minute to minute, but I'm always hoping to get that new lower number, and so discouraged when it goes up again. This is what I've been trying since I started this new life style (never say diet 8 weeks ago::o ) My official weigh in day is Monday, however I weigh each morning to get an indicator of how I'm doing. If I show a loss more than one day during the week and not on Weigh In Day, I know it's coming soon. for example one week I was down 2lbs three times during the week, but on Monday I showed no loss. I knew in my heart I was down the two pounds, and sure enough on Tues it was back down and stayed there for the rest of the week. It helps me not too put all my hopes on just one mornings weight. On the other hand, I really have to work to remember not to get discouraged if the scale shows I'm up a pound or two. That's the hard part. I also weigh at the same time and wear only my birthday suit. Taking my measurements has really helped. It shows me I'm losing in more ways than one.
You asked for an idea of what we eat. Here is a couple of days menues:
Breakfast:1/2 banana, 2pc pbutter toast 8oz OJ (435) Lunch: 1c tomato soup, 4 crackers (200) Snack: Crackers and frosting (400?)
Dinner:6oz ham (120)
Not all that well balance, but I often eat like this.
Another day:
Breakfast: None
Lunch:Cherry Health Shake made with slimfast and frozen cherries (300)
Dinner:3/4c Pasta with 3oz chicken, 3/4c asparagus, mushrooms and italian drsg.(400)
Snack:International coffee, 1 stalk celery (60) Snack:15 crutons (110)
And One More:
Tuesday Breakfast:2pc pbutter toast, milk (355)
Lunch: None
Dinner: 2 pc pizza (340)
Snack: Apple (70)
Snack: 3c popcorn (150)

I'm probably not a good role model for you. As you can see, these aren't well planned - balanced meals. I don't like too many rules, and I don't like to cook, so I eat what I feel like as long as the average daily calorie count is below 1000. On the plus side, I exercise 5 days a week and have lost an average of 1.5 lbs a week. :)
Keep looking at different diet plans, if necessary, create your own ,but find one that makes sense to you.
Don't go with my 1000 calorie daily average; it's too low. I just wanted to get a jump start, and now I'm slowly increasing it to a healthier average.

Good luck on your exercise challenge!

Annie, Cjunk, Prescious one, How are you doing?
Together we can do this!

Hey all :wave:

I did it! I got up this morning and walked a mile! Going to get the 8 Minutes in before I go to work today.

The water is going good. Like Cyan I'm now craving it. I drink water all day and when I eat dinner I usually drink half a diet drink and water. Cyan, to do a windsprint you run from one point (say maybe 100 yards or less whatever you're comfortable with) to another and back as fast as you can. It builds your wind up. When I first started I could only do two so each week or whenever I felt comfortable I would at one. Only at 4 now but I'm going to get better! My husband stands outside and watches me like he's my coach or something!

MikiG you are right there are so many "diets" to choose from. I've found counting calories to be easier. Right now I'm doing 1500. It's working. I eat anything I want as long as I don't go over 1500 calories. Watch out for those fat grams also. Here's what I usally eat (breakfast and lunch almost never change nor do the snacks)

BREAKFAST/LUNCH (choose one of the following)
MultiGrain Cherrios(110) or Crispix(110) with non-fat milk(90)
1 Kiwi (49)
Kelloggs Creal bar(90)
Any power bar that's less than 200 calories( Dr Soy(180), Pria(110)
3 Egg whites(17 cal each)
Water


SNACK( about 4PM and again at 9PM)Choose one
Kiwi
Cereal bar or power bar
My new potato chip! Crispix Cereal (baked(to dry) with fat free itlian dressing, garlic or onion salt )(125)
Granola Bar Chocolate Smores( 135)
water

DINNER (6pm or before 8pm)
Anything as long as it fits into the calories
Half a diet soda and water

This mostly everyday but I'm just like everyone else I have my days! Sometimes I just have to have some kind of junk!

LadyRider I agree I don't like too many rules and mine aren't balanced either.

Keep up the good work everyone!

Just a quick note...went walking yesterday...for about an hour...the pace was moderate...it felt nice...to get some fresh air...after that....greek food for dinner...but did very well and stayed at my 1500 cals per day....So this binging thing is under control for the time being. I plan to do my usual biking tonight...So girls have a good rest of weekend and stay on track...cause 3 months from now, our bodies, mind and spirit witll thank us

Cyan

Hello to everyone, this will be short but I will come in and post later this evening. Sounds like everyone has done great this weekend. Keep up the good work with meals and exercise. :)

I've entered into a new phase of exercising, still using the bike but have added some jumping around! :cb: Mainly using some weights and working on the waistline. Also trying to build more muscle to help burn more fat.
I did good on my goal of reducing my sugar intake and also managed to ride the bike for 45 minutes over the weekend. Sounds like all of us are on the right track. Together we will accomplish our goals. Does anyone have any suggestions for a challenge for tomorrow night?
Well I need to go, time to finish up cooking Sunday dinner. Yum, food time!
Talk with everyone later. Stay Confident.
Keep up with the exercising and water consumption.
:grouphug:

Hi all :cool: New day today and so far so good! :D Got off here last nite and did my air walker for 5 min ( dont laugh, I could barely make it lol ) Then got up this morning and did 5 more minutes, ate my breakfast which consisted of 1 cup of RaisinBran with 1/2 cup milk, then got back on the air walker for 5 more minutes. Just finished lunch, a tuna sandwich with a small salad. Weighed this morning and not going to look at the scales again for 2 weeks if I can possibly hold out that long! Wanted to take my measurements and looked everywhere and cant find my measuring tape. Going to borrow one later on so I can keep up with them also. Drinking my water as usual, feel like I'm floating:dizzy: lol.
Precious and Lady, thanks for the examples of the meals you're eating. I too think it's easier for me just to cut down rather than cut OUT certain things totally. I know me...if I deprive myself totally of things I really want, before I know it, I"ll eat it anyway but even more than I'd normally eat.
Cyan, I had to laugh about the OhHenry's. Not laughing AT you, just WITH you. It was like reading about myself. :lol:
My son is standing here "patiently" ( yeah right lol) waiting for a turn on the computer so I guess I"ll go for now. Who knows..I might even try to work in 5 more minutes of "Air Walking". Hopefully I'll get back on here sometime tonite tho to see how everyone is doing.
Ya'll have a great day!!!:flow2:

Tonight my cal consumption was a tad high at 1900 cals...had a spaghetti dinner, with caesar salad and garlic bread over at a friends house...but what can I do....so I walked home in the rain which took about 20 minutes....then I bike for 30 minutes to burn off more cals....So I think I took care of the food...the great thing though is that I have not binged since thursday evening so I am very very very happy:D

Hey Mikki...I guess you know what I am talking about...the OhHenrys....its tough when you are on the verge of losing it and eating everything in site....so be tough...I get a little help from garcinia cambodgia which I have started since friday night...with success.

Well health nut buddies, I look forward to hearing how your weekends went.

Hey Annie...challenge for tomorrow...add some weight lifting to your regime....let me know what you think.

Stay tough and make wise choices

Cyan

Had a great day today!! Exercised for a total of 15 minutes on my "Air Walker" which is ALOT for me. Didnt overeat at all but had 3 small meals which I think may work out better than the way I have been eating previously. Bought some healthier stuff today too so I have alternatives if I do break down and snack occasionally. Didnt drink my whole gallon of water but did drink 84.5 ounces. The water really helps with the "full" feeling. Oh, almost forgot....I also weighed and took all my measurements. Not going to ck any of it again for 2 weeks if I can stand it. I'll fill you in on how I did 2 weeks from now, good or bad. I figure I may as well be honest here. I think being accountable to all of you will help me.

Cyan...I think it was you that told me about Fitday.com. Just joined there tonite and logged everything I ate today. I had a total of 1175 calories. The calorie breakdown was like this:
27% from Fats, 38% from Carbs, and 35% from Proteins. Of the 34 grams of Fat I had today, 14 of them were saturated, 3 poly, and 9 mono. I know the calorie total is well under being too many but as far as the breakdown, how is it? Where should most of my calories come from? And isnt saturated fats the ones that are bad? How many is too many of those? I'm not up on all the health details. Was hoping you could ck out how I did and let me know if I should change anything. Thanks for any info you can give me!

:bomb:Just need to vent this morning:bomb:
(Hope you don't mind?)

I just have to say how good it is to belong to this group. I had a horrible weekend, and I read all the posts from this weekend, and it just gives me more incentive to keep this battle alive:o

Stress was a hugh factor in this weekends loss of direction!
:yikes:
But I keep telling myself that ONLY I can change my life, and what I do about it is totally up to me.

To rid myself of the stress, I plan on working my butt off, (literally):joker:
Working out breaks down all that stress and I will come conquer and lose a pound or two this week.......

Ladies, The time has come!
No more emotional eating, (I hope)
No more excuses. I am FAT, and I know it, and it is up to me to change this..
I am going to prove to myself that I CAN do this, no matter what it takes.....:cb: :cb:
I thank each and everyone of you for allowing me to read and feel what you are all going through, because it no only pushes me, It finally made me realize that I am not the only one out there.
I did my morning exercise at 5:45 this morning, and I walked 16 blocks to work from my son's school. OH, I AM SOOOOOO READY to get this ball rolling!! :flame:

I challenge myself to a Negative Free Week... I won't let anyone get me down!!!
I think I will be easy on myself this week. I think I deserve that much....
:judge:
Hope you all have a good week, and once again, I am sorry for dumping all this on everyone... I just needed to get it out...
:balloons:

Hi Mikki ...to answer your question about breakdown of cals

I got this from http://www.foodfunandfacts.com/calories.htm


Calories, Fat Grams, Protein and Carbohydrates
Your calories per day should be divided up:
30% Fat
55% Carbohydrates
15% Protein
Breakdown of the 30% Fat in the diet should be as follows:
10% Saturated Fat
10% Monounsaturated Fat
10% Polyunsaturated Fat
Read your food labels to see what you are eating!

How many calories should you consume a day? How many grams of fat should you intake? Here is a little helpful information.
If you consume 1600 calories, you should have no more than 50 grams of fat per day. This calorie and fat ratio is good for sedentary women, children and many older adults.


This ratio would apply if you are following a balanced diet and not one of those low carb diets...personally I think this works...if you lower you fat intake ...too low, your body goes into ketosis. Good fats to eat come from olive oil, fish...omega 3 fatty acids, flax seed oil...omega 6 fatty acids...these fats help your heart stay healthy and help raise your hdl and lower your ldl.

Also, you dont want to go to low on the cals because if your body thinks its in starvation mode, the next time you eat regularly, your body will store it all as fat in anticipation for the next "starvation" Also, it slows down your metabolism and your body starts breaking down your muscle...so make sure you stay around 1500 cals and keep exercising...also add some form of weight lifting to your regime....this will increase your metabolism which in turn will help your body burn fat ...you will loose fat instead of water or muscle. Thats why I say in the beginning, measuring yourself is a better way than the scale cause muscle weighs 4 times more than fat...so in the beginning of a diet and exercise program...you can actually gain weight on the scale.

So I hope this helps

Cyan

Hi everyone,

Read all of your weekend posts and am glad to be back! I had a very busy weekend but a good one. Now I am back to the work thing and it is depressing me a little because I think I have the doldrums at work and am not feeling as challenged as I like. So I guess the diet and exercise focus helps me to stay positive!

I had a good eating weekend but a bad drinking one. I am not a heavy drinker but I do enjoy a glass of wine with dinner now and again on weekends. My friends all led me to specialty restaraunts this weekend that specialized in micro brew. When I got home and calculated how much one of those pints knocks you back I was discouraged. I had a total of 2 1/2 pints on the weekend (Friday, Saturday, Sunday). I exercised for over 1hr of intense "Body Blast" activity on Friday so I think that took care of a pint but I am sure that Saturday's stuck with me because I was pretty inactive the rest of the weekend (recovering legs..so stiff I could barely move them!).

So I guess you can say that I am a bit blue today for all of the damage I did and on top of that, started my period am retaining a load of water and back into my chubby pants!

Anyone up for helping me out??? I have been doing so well before today but I need a pep talk!

Not to worry....one weekend of debauchery is not gonna derail you. And, when your about to get your period....our bodies hold on to tons of water and you can way as much as 5 to 8 pounds heavier...so dont despair...Please dont use this as an excuse to go off on the deep end and completely fall off the wagon. So now is a good time to get on that bike and cycle or go for that swim you so love. Continue to drink some water and rest assured that there will be days like this...the challenge is to persevere and keep plugging away at it...be strong.

Well I'm off to do my cycling...tonight I am fantasizing about this new guy I met:D

See you girls

Cyan

Hi all,
Looks like some of us myself included had a bad weekend. Not to be discouraged we're still going to make it. Remember one day at a time! Work last night was awful too stressed to go get anything healthy to eat so I ordered cheese sticks with extra cheese and hot wings. Guess what? I ate every last bit! Spent the night with mom last night and she cooked a big breakfast. I didn't want to be rude so I ate. Now hubby is cooking croquets. Oh well tomorrow is a new day.
Take care.

Hi There,
Well, I'm pretty much in a blue funk today too. I didn't do badly over the weekend, but stress is giving me major cravings. I have been able to resist, but then have a major pity party because I can't have the chocolate I really want. Dumb, huh?
reina_mia - keep that ball rollin'! I like your self challenge of a Negative Free Week. I think those persistant negative thoughts are bringing me down too, so I join you in your challenge. Anybody else up for it?? :yes:
On the up side, I weighed in today and lost one pound and one inch. That brings me to a total of 14lbs and 12 inches. I was hoping for a 2lb loss, but this sure beats a gain! I didn't feel like jogging today, but my husband reminded me that it will be the first scheduled day I missed since I started in September, and how much better I'd feel if I exercise. His pep talk did it, and I ran 2 miles - and did feel much better!
Talk to ya all tomorrow,

Think Thin and Healthy

Lady

Well all, after my venting episode, and reading everyone elses day, I guess we are all in a bit of a funk. It too shall pass...

LadyRider, Congrats:bravo: Yiou are doing good. Good for your husband to keep you motivated...

Well, I went all day without any negativity, and now I am exhausted. I will check in with everyone tomorrow.

Oh, I forgot, I doubt I will be eating any junk tomorrow. I am getting a root canal in the morning. Any suggestions for food???

Talk to you later
:grouphug:

Hi Everyone,

Thanks for the pep talks. Its me back again. I ended up buying a yoga relaxation tape last night and doing it for about an hour. That seemed to really help. I also went to the store and bought some new veggies for lunch as I was getting low.

I had a great sleep but woke up even more bloated than yesterday (for some reason I am more boated than ever!!). I am not going to let it get me down, so this morning I used some aromatherapy (thanks guys!) and that helped settle my funk for now.

I like the challenge of the non-negativity, so I will take up the challenge and not focus negatively on my bloating today!

I will drink lots of water and go to the pool! If I am going to feel like I am floating inside, I may as well float in the pool too!!!

Cyan, this fantasy guy is he a new person you have met recently? Sounds intriguing!

LadyRider, great work on the exercise--it was nice to have your husband help to motivate you too!

Well everyone, today is another day of getting back on track and staying positive. A challenge indeed!! I am up for it. Reporting back tonight....

Cjunk

Well last night I was talking with my new guy friend...he's far away, so we have never met in person...but he's none the less very fun to talk with...anyway, he said I looked like Kathy Njimy...I was horrified...I was so upset that after hanging up with him, I cycled for 50 minutes, and burned over 500 cals for a distance of 15 km....Yeesh! So his comments are like water off a duck's back!
Although he thought he was complimenting me.

Oh well....next! please...movin on.

Cjunk...you are amazing for not giving up even though you felt super bloated...it seems like you are making a life change and not just a temporary diet thing...thats the way to go...keep plugging away at it

Reina-mia....you cant stay in this funk for too long...snap out of it...remember all of your accomplishments and your hard work...make yourself and health a priority...dont give up...I know cravings are hard...I know that...but you must persevere...the cravings will pass...you'll see and keep exercising. Kudos on the positive thinking and I give you good energy and courage for your root canal.

Hey LadyRider...the same goes for you...be strong...keep exercising and eating good healthy meals and thank your hubby for encouraging you to go run...2 miles....you inspire me. I'm sure its amazing having such a supportive husband...give him a hug and tell him thank you for helping you stay on track.

PreciousOne The same goes for you....I know its tough when you are tired...you dont want to cook..and its easier to eat junk...but its harder lugging around a heavy sick body...trust me on this one...its harder existing when simple things like climbing stairs are hard cause your too over weight and out of shape...you must think long term...your body is the only body you have...your family wants you around healthy...so the next time, you feel tired and want some comfort food...take comfort in the fact that keeping yourself healthy and in shape is ensuring that you will have a long healthy life.

Ok I am off my soapbox:soap: This thread is here to encourage you to exercise, to eat better, and in the long run to become healthier people. We deserve this...There will be good days and bad ones...Just make sure you celebrate the good ones and quickly move forward away from the bad ones.

Hey Annie where are you...keep positive and Mikki looking forward to hearing from you soon.

Bye for now
Cyan

Good Morning! :dizzy:
Lots of things on my mind today, but first .....

Reina_Mia - YEA!! :cp: on avoiding negative thoughts, and for calling our attention to the importance of attitude in succeeding. Thanks to you I'm doing better today.
Good luck on the root canal. You might try eating no fat yogert or soup.

Cjunk - Wow, you're doing great! You boght the yoga tape -and used it I presume?? :p heheh, and you restocked the veggies. Plus you have a great attitude and your sense of humor is a boost to all of us. This bloating thing only lasts a few days, and just think, someday you won't have to worry about it at all; trust me, I know. :o

Cyan - You cycled 50 minutes?? :strong: And you DIDN"T choose comfort food? Way to go girl!
You give lots of good incouragement in your posts and I really value your input.

A fun project: find something - canned food, bags of sugar, etc, that weighs the same as the pounds you have lost. If it's more than one item put them together and lift them all at once. You will be amazed at how much you have lost. ;)

Ok, Here's the deal. I just haven't had the energy I want when I run, so it's been getting harder and harder to stay motivated. I was mulling this over on this morning's run and the obvious finally hit me over the head. :idea:
If I don't put the right fuel in my body, I can't expect to have the energy to exercise. Yes, I've been losing weight, but I haven't been eating healthy as I should. I think it's Cyan that has been encouraging us to use the food pyramid, well it finally sunk in. :lol: I found this link to the mayo clinic that gives a clear explanation of the pyramid and portions. Here is the link: http://www.mayo.edu/comm/mcr/news_1393.html. I'm all psyched! It's off to the store to buy lots of fruits, veggie and complex carbs. :cb:

Lady

Hello to All, after reading some of the replies it sounds like some of you are feeling alittle down. I get like that when the weather is dreary looking. I think sometimes if we all stopped to think about all of this being a lifestyle change instead of a "diet" it will bring a new focus into your life. When I first started out all I thought about was "dieting". I would have a lot of depressing days because of that. Seemed like the weight wasn't coming off fast enough, I didn't seem to look any better, etc. So I gathered up all my thoughts and all my plans, I looked at it as a long term accomplishment. Step by step, instead of banging my head against the wall trying to "make" things happen. We can only do our best, try each day to do alittle better than the day before. I feel more at ease with the big picture now. My second week of a new lifestyle change opened my eyes. I realized that my accomplishments weren't going to happen over night. I started trying to change the way my lifestyle was on Sept. 15th of this year. The second week of that time period was the most important time during all of this. It's when I sat down and decided how and what I was going to change. Gradually I changed my eating habits. Next I took on an exercise decision. The hardest part was getting everything to work together to feel like I was doing things normally instead of a forced situation. I learned to cook all over again, except this time the healthy way. I chose my food carefully, learning which foods were good for me and which ones weren't. My old diet consisted mostly of "high fat" and "high calorie" foods. None of them were giving me proper nutrition. I felt sluggish, hardly no energy. I can say now that I feel like I am in my 20's again. My husband and I used to hike every weekend with a group. About 5 years ago I stopped going. Felt I really didn't care to do that anymore. But the real reason was that I didn't have the energy or the desire to go hiking. I would rather stay home, eat junk food and watch a movie or something. This past weekend I rejoined the group. Not exactly the hiker I used to be but atleast I have the desire and energy to want to be the old me again. I didn't get to join the regular group of hikers that I used to hike with, I had to join in with the newbies. I couldn't keep up with the regular group. As we all started off I watched as my orginal group left us newbies behind. I saw at that moment the whole picture of what I had done to myself and how I really had let years slip away from my life. It will take some time to be able to regroup with my original hikers. My husband glanced over his shoulder back at me while they left us behind. I was in hopes that he would fall back and hike with my group but he didn't. So it's one of my goals to be able to hike with my husband and the original group again some day. It felt great hiking again. But the group I was in had to stop every so often for a break. At some points I really didn't know if I was going to make it. But I did, and I felt great afterwards. The original group was waiting for us, they all applauded when we reached them. So it's a challenge, one that I am determined to reach my goal.
Yesterday was weigh in day, I didn't post yesterday so I will post my weigh in today. I lost another 3 pounds and also 2 1/2 inches off my waist. Alittle less than 2 1/2 but close enough to the half mark to count. :)
If I could say anything to all of you with alittle advice or tips, getting your eating habits under control is so important. It may be tedious at first and seem to be something that you don't want to do, but planning out what you're going to eat for a whole day is well worth the effort. Always make sure you have something convenient on hand that is healthy in case you don't feel like cooking. I know from experience how I would grab something filled with high calories and loaded with fat when I was tired. It's all about eating habits and setting up good ones. Once you conquer this it's easy as 1, 2, 3. I have converted all my recipes over to healthy ones. So I still get to enjoy eating what I love. Except now the high calories and fat are gone from them.
Miki, you mentioned that you love Italian food, that is also one of my favorites. The things you mentioned you can still enjoy just by converting the recipes to healthier ones. Rice, pasta, etc. aren't fattening, it's what we put on them that is. Rice and pasta are healthy additions to our daily diet. I have a recipe for Fettucine Alfredo that taste just as good as the orginal one. Original dish comes in at around 930 calories for a serving, I think the Olive Garden dish is around 543, maybe alittle higher with around 19 grams of fat. The one I fix comes in at around 220, maybe 240.
The brocolli, rice casserole that you like can be converted also. As far as speghetti, there are tons of ways to fix that health wise. I don't restrict myself from any foods that I loved in the past. I decrease my portions and have also learned to convert the recipes so I can have a healthy serving. The only foods that I have stopped eating are sweets, high fat foods such as chips and snack foods. I would rather eat something healthier and feel full afterwards than to sit and eat hundreds of calories in junk food and still be hungry. I've learned to adapt, for my own health. I'm not deprieving myself, to some I guess maybe they think I am. But as for me, I don't think I need to have a donut or any other junk food. It's not part of my life anymore and I feel good about that. I didn't enter into this as just a feeling that I needed to lose weight. I knew I wasn't healthy, that was the important part. I didn't want to fall over dead with a heart attack or have to go have my arteries cleaned out because of all the fat I have poured into them. I also had a fear of having diabetes, my Mom and my grandmother has it. I was warned by a doctor a few years ago about being borderline diabetic. It finially hit home that I needed to do something with my health. I didn't listen to the doctor, but hearing my husband call me fat and that I didn't care about my health really sunk in. I guess some people would take what he said as harsh and not so kind to me. But that is his way, he comes across very stern and to the point. He told me like it is. Having a lot of weight around the mid section points to all sorts of health issues. In fact, that area has the most issues of any other area that carries too much weight. It's great to have motivation stemming towards getting back into favorite clothes, looking better, etc. But the one thing that will set you in motion is to think about the risks you are taking by being overweight. Is eating junk food, fast food loaded with fat and high calories,etc. worth your life? My life is worth more than that to me. I would love to be around to see my grandchildren when they are born. I want to be around to share the rest of my life with my husband. There are so many joys in life, in the past the only joy I had was consuming food. Seeing a big piece of dessert coming brought a smile to my face. How crazy all that seems to me now. Now I wake up full of energy, my thoughts are not of food, but what the day holds in store. I feel like a better person, I have more motivation for the important things in my life. My life doesn't center around food anymore. Food is something that nourishes my body, it's not for giving me a reason to feel happy. I'm not home free yet, I still have struggles on a day to day basis. I still have thoughts that I'm not going to make it, or that I will go on a binge and eat everything that I see. That's part of the bad habit that I am still trying to break. But each day I am getting closer to achieving something that has been so hard to do. It does take work, committment, determination and loads of will power. But to me the most important factor has been my reason for motivation. My health.
Exercising is another area that I constantly work on. Sometimes I dread to even think about climbing on that bike. But after I'm on there I get the best feeling. I know I am working for better health. I'm one of those people that need balance in what I do. I can't slack on my eating habits or slack on my exercising. I want both of them to become a part of my life. And right now they are. It's like setting an alarm clock, after a while it becomes habit. So I've thrown away the old habits and developed new ones. A new lifestyle, a healthier one. One that I can live with for a very long time.
Cyan, I haven't really got into weight lifting. Mainly I am using 5 pound dumbbells to exercise with. Doing side bends, etc. Also dancing around some. Started doing a few new exercises this weekend. Ouch, :eek: they hurt! Went back to riding the bike for 30 minute sessions yesterday. I think 30 minutes 3 times a day is more to my liking. I wish I knew how to swim, Cjunk you are doing one of the best exercises there is. Sorry you have been feeling alittle down lately. I remember back about how that time of the month was. I went through the change pretty early, a lot of hormone deals associated with that. Seems like that's when I started putting on a lot of weight. I got that middle age spread thing going on.
Lady, glad you are still motivated and keeping up the good work. Stay motivated, you have the right outlook.
To everyone else. Glad you have joined us. Please don't give up, we all have bad days with this. Don't be bashful, if you need any help all of us will be glad to help. Venting is a good thing. Don't keep things inside. It leads to frustrations which in turn leads to overeating, speaking from experience on this one.
And most of all, everyone please think about your health. Stay motivated, stay confident.
Have a great day. Talk with you ladies later. Keep up the good work. Sorry this was so long again. :o
:grouphug:

Hey Gals,

Just posting a bit before dinner to help me stay on track. I found last night so challenging around dinner and am experiencing the same cravings tonight. Last night I pushed through it and tonight I hope to do the same.

So great to hear from everyone. I am with Cyan on the push to get back into the swing of things when we hit a rut. If we don't get out of it ourselves, then how will we stay on track?? This week has been one of the hardest for me so I figure that if I can keep myself in line for the week than surely I can inspire someone else to do the same??? I keep telling myself it is worth it and I am worth it to keep this healthy lifestyle up.

I realized that I have to come up with a once a month strategic plan because it seems that I really really crave bad for me things around this time!!!

I have stayed away from the cookies, homemade date squares and timbits brought into work by others over the last few days (can you believe it? And its only Tuesday!!). I am starting to get noticed for not eating them and people are jokingly harrassing me for being so healthy. I let them know how hard it is and how I appreciate their positive feedback because it keeps me going and so far the harassing has now turned into supporting! I guess it is all in the approach.

One of the girls asked me if I would be interested in doing the stairs on our break times, and it looks like that might work out with our schedules a few days a week.

Thanks to LadyRider for the web address. Truly until Annie was discussing it earlier I had never heard of the food pyramid, only the Canada Food Guide! It is helpful to have more details about it.

Annie, never worry about writing too much. I enjoy your postings and the way that you share your thoughts so openly-it helps to keep me motivated and I hope I can do the same for you.

Cyan, way to go girl!! I sometimes take what men say too much to heart and you certainly handled it with a positive mental attitude and a great response to exercise! What an inspiration!! I still can't get one guy's voice out of my head when he said to me years and years ago that I was a pretty girl but if only I lost some weight on that rather large butt of mine than I would be even more beautiful. Let's just say I dumped him because he didn't appreciate the inner me, but it took some time thereafter to realize it because I let his comments bother me. My assets are okay and as a matter of fact I kinda like them!!!

Miki, Reina-Mia and Precious One...we can all get back on track and inspire each other. Let's post what we are challenged with so that we can help each other get through this!! I have found that friends and family will stop cooking those treats or modify their treats if you let them know how good it feels to eat healthier or why you are motivated to eat better...is that something worth trying??

Talk to you all after dinner and before aquafit!

Cjunk (and not eat it!!)

Good Morning All!!

Not working until 11am this morning but for some reason I woke up early today. Feeling well rested after last night's aquafit and swim. Didn't get as much of a workout because another girl did the class and it was very mild movemements. Then in the swim I kept getting bumped into by other swimmers in the faster lane and kept catching up to all of the swimmers in the next slower lane over so eventually I gave up and went home. So I guess you could say that I did about a 45 minute workout of low to medium intensity.

I think I will try to do some exercise before going to work today-maybe my pilates tape. I noticed tomorrow that there is a 7:30-8:30am length swim and I work again at 11am so I may go out to that dependent on how my shoulder is doing.

I will spend some time planning out my food for the day because I seem to get stuck especially at night when I get home because I get into a pattern of just "pinching" at the easy foods in the fridge. So I think I will cut up some pinching veggies to access for tonight and plan a dinner which I can just pop into the microwave when I get home to help out that urge. I found a good water bottle that I have that I use for hiking that holds 32 ounces of water, so my goal is to have one of those during the day to get started on better water consumption.

Gotta get to planning and exercising!! My gosh, I am scaring myself even...yikes!

Cjunk

Hey Cjunk and dont eat it:lol: Awesome on holding steadfast and not breaking down and giving in to your cravings...this battle you won.

I am asking this question to everybody who reads and posts here: Lets call it a mental challenge on this quest of ours to a healthier us.....So what clicked in your brain this time? Why is it this time, you are sticking with this health journey? Did you have an experience or something that finally made you want to be healthier?

I was just curious...for me, its the getting older part...there is diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and alzheimers in my family history...and these are all chronic lifestyle illnesses that develop from poor life choices and poor diet. I am 32 and in very good health but I have been neglectful of my diet and exercise. Yes I am not considered fat my most people...I look to be about 140 pounds although I weigh 169...I have lots of muscle and carry my weight very well...my clothes are anywhere from a size 9 to a size 12. So, yes, I do have about a good 30 pounds to loose but its not the number that concerns me the most. I am on this health journey because I want to live for a long time and be disease free. I want to be those centenarians you hear about that are sharp minded and move without aid. I can do this...so I am doing this....and I want you girls to know that you all have been such a source of inspiration...thank you for sharing your trials and tribulations. I know its hard...and I know that there will be days where you overeat or dont exercise or both...but I pray and hope those days are far and few inbetween and very short lived.

So last night, I did 7km on the bike...and didnt binge...so since last friday, I have not binged after my last meal which is approximately at 6pm. So I am very proud of myself for this because it is so easy for me to stuff food into my mouth to deal with my life pressures. You see, I took mom to see her family doctor and she wants my mom to do a complete GI a gastrointestinal exam...both through the mouth and a colonoscopy...to check for cancers...she wants to rule this out because my mom has lost too much weight. Anyway, needless to say, I felt miserable and I could have broken down...and used this horrible situation as an excuse to eat eat eat...but thankfully, I didnt...I remembered all of your good advice given here and used it. I got on the exercise bike instead and worked off my anxieties instead...I took a hot bath...I spoke with friends on the phone...and the cravings and urge to overeat stoppep. Well, must get back to work

see ya later

cyan

Alright ladies, I did it, I went into McDonalds yesterday with my son, and I did not munch on any fries or order my own.

Hey, That is one big accomplishment for myself.

Well, the root canal went better than expected. I am really in no pain and ready to exercise. Ok, I lie, I have more severe menstral cramps than I do tooth pain...

I challenge myself to drinking all my water today, and not munching on junk today.


LadyRider Cjunk, and Cyan, thank you for all your motivation and support. I don't think I could do this without all this continued support. I am feeling better today, inspite of the issues that are going on in my house. But I refuse to let that get me down.

I won't be working out today, but I will be back on track tomorrow.

I LOVE THIS GROUP.....
Have a Blessed day everyone.

:grouphug:

Good moring,
Thanks for the encouragement guys! Yesterday was great except for the water(some but not enough). I did my 8 minutes and then rode the bikealmost 2mi(very good considering the little ones were underfoot). I'm kind of in a funk this moring don't feel like doing anything but going to make myself go for that mile walk.

Cyan my wake up call was when my uniform pants which were a size too big started getting tight not to mention my jeans were already too tight. I was like this not going to happen plus the fact my daughter eats way too much. I don't want her to be picked on because of her weight when she starts school. Especially since I know I can just cut out all the junk food she eats.

Keep up the good work everyone and remember one day at a time.

I Lost 2 More Pounds! goodvibes

Good Morning! Cjunk - You're right, having those veggies ready will really help. Earlier this week I had celery cut up in an open container of ice water and the family ate it up in one day!
You were smart to be up front with your co-workers and let them know how important this life style is to you. It not only made them supportive, it reinforced your own determination. :)

Cyan! I am very impressed! You faced a very difficult situation and instead of eating comfort foods you used helathy resources - friends, hot bath and exercise! :bravo: Keep up the good work!

What clicked for me this time? A combination of things. I will turn 58 in Feb. My husband wants to go out west and hike down one of the canyons to see the ruins and I knew I could never make it. Then my close friend spent a weekend clearing part of the Appalachian trail and I knew I could never have done that either. Finally, I was getting out of breath just climbing the stairs. If I am in this poor shape in my 50's what will I be like in my 60's or 70's? I didn't want to be limited in what I could do because I was over weight and physically out of shape. I dreaded starting another diet that I wouldn't stick to and looked around for another answer. That's when I realized I had never cut calories and exercised at the same time - always one with out the other and that never worked. My son runs, so he inspired me to try it too. When I saw a 3lb loss the first week, it made me realize this could really work. Whenever I get discouraged or lazy, my son and husband are both there to keep me going. :)
Would you girls be willing to share favorite low cal recipies?

Mikki, reina_mia, precious - How are you? You are missed!

Lady

LadyRider, Congrats on the weightloss...:cb: :bravo: :dance:
I have to have those veggies ready for me, I guess.

I am really trying not to munch. I posted early today, you may have missed it, but I beat the McDonald's urge, and didn't have any fries.

I hope you all have a good day...

Just popped back in here and saw your post about the Mcdonald's success story....way to go!:bravo: :cp: :balloons:

Keep strong...and how is your tooth?

cyan

Thanks Cjunk :grouphug:

Lady, I'm all for the suggestion of sharing recipes. I know I've come across some new ones that sounded really good but when I tried them they weren't that great. It's always good to try something that someone else has had success with. What was that old commercial, something like "give it to Mikey, Mikey will eat anything or try anything". Or something like that.
That's a great idea Lady.

Cjunk, I admire your confidence and motivation. You do inspire me to do alittle better each day. You strive forward even with an injury, makes me realize that sometimes we make excuses not to exercise and then to read your replies that you keep trying to do better even when you have an injury speaks volumes.

reina_mia, big applause to you from me. Will power and determination brings great rewards. Keep up the great work, you're on the right track. Much success to you.

Lady, great going on the weight loss. You go Girl! :) A big applause to your husband and son for their support. I know what you mean about the hiking. ;)

Precious One, congrats on the 2 mile bike ride. You have the right focus to make this work. Go easy on yourself about the water consumption. If you're like me, I never was fond of drinking water. Take it day by day, before you realize it you will be drinking more water. It's hard to force something on yourself that you don't really like. But if you limit yourself from other beverages you will soon find yourself grabbing for that water. When I started out I would rotate my liquid intakes. One meal I would have water, one meal I would have lightly sweetened ice tea. Soon I was leaving the sugar out of my tea and then I definitely prefered the water. Especially when you have just worked out, water is the final touches on making you feel good about yourself.

Cyan, a big applause and pat on the back for your will power and determination not to binge. For me late night snacking was a problem also. You are so right about finding other outlets instead of reaching for food. Thanks for sharing your thoughts about this.
In my post yesterday I think I pretty much covered my reasons for trying to become healthier. It was more like an essay than an answer though. :o So I won't get into all that again, but since you asked the question I just wanted to let you know I had already gave my answer to this.

reina-mia, I agree. This group is one tough group. Best there is for support and help. We're all going to make our goals a reality. Hang in there.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Cyan,
Thanks for your comments...My tooth is doing much better. I am not in as much pain as I thought. :dizzy:
As long as it curbs my appetite, I could go to the dentist once a week...:D

And kudos to you for not binging. :bravo: I know how hard that can be, and it really is a tug of war game.

Keep up the good work...

I am challenging myself to working out to get rid of all this stress....:mad: :mad:

I will check in later tonight.

:dancer:

Hi all!!! I've been going crazy here. For the past 2 days, I tried to get to the posts between 9 and 10 pm and wasnt able to. I could get to the homepage and read the articles but couldnt get into any message boards or anything. I hated knowing you all were probably here and I was missing out!! I miss all of you when I'm not able to be here. You're all a great help to me.

I was disappointed yesterday because my calories were much higher than I was hoping when I logged everything in at the end of the day in Fitday.com. ( I love that site, by the way) I had done really well Sunday and Monday and felt like I blew it yesterday. Got back on track today tho and got my calories back down. Still drinking water..still not liking it. haha

As for my reason to really being determined this time, it's because I will be 40 in March and I"ve heard people say all my life that weight is so much harder to lose after 40. So about 3 weeks ago, I started to panic. I dont want to be a big fat lazy person when my kids grow up and move out and my husband and I have the chance to go out and do things together more. ( dont get me wrong..I am not looking forward to the kids moving out at all...I actually dread the day lol)

Anyway, I think coming to this site is the BEST thing by far that I have done. The eating right and drinking water and exercising are all good things and necessary but I honestly dont think without ya'll I would stick with it. THANKS!!!! for all the input and support.

Missing 2 nites made me wayyy behind. I just spent 45 minutes just catching up on reading everyone's posts. Now I dont have time to address every one individually. There was tons of good information and inspiration in them all. Even the ones when some of you are depressed or "funked out" (haha), they inspire me because I know you're just like me. :) Together, we can do this!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi MikiG, great to have you back, we missed you!

LadyRider, you are an incredible role model--such support to everyone and also leading the way with great successes!! Congratulations on your weight loss and keep up the great work.

Cyan, as always, your queries give everyone great thought and propel us forwards because it confirms why we are all here. Mine is basically the desire to heal my shoulder and at the same time get back into shape after a 6 month hiatus from exercise. Also I too have seen miy parents suffer from conditions related to lack of a healthy diet and exercise.

Reina-mia, I cannot believe the strength!! Not eating french fries at McDonalds would be for me a Fear Factor challenge!!! Congrats! I don't know if I would have had the strength...excellent work!

Annie, so glad to hear from you. Your name Determined Annie says it all...keep it up and we will all reach our goals together. Thanks for the positives. It has been challenging with my shoulder injury but like you I am determined to find alternatives so that I can reach my goal in whatever way I can.

PreciousOne, glad to hear that you are bike riding. I really gotta use some of that biking inspiration of yours and get up on my dusty bike (which happens to be sitting in my kitchen !! (in the corner of course so there is not too much guilt when I eat and stare at it!). I too have been taking the water challenge and a girl at work shared a secret to her water success. She brings a 32 ounce bottle to work with her and tells herself that she will drink one of those in the morning and then another in the afternoon. She said that most of it is done by the time she drives to work because she drinks it without even thinking. I tried it and it seems to work for me! I still don't like drinking it much but now it has been becoming part of my routine. I was drinking smaller glasses before and felt like it was neverending!


A couple of positives:
My diet has been pretty good over the past few days.
I did do my pilates tape yesterday.
I did make it to the swim this morning and drank a 32 ounce bottle of water this am. I did not have an intense swim but it was relaxing and destressing. I was amazed at how full the pool was--so many people!! I really have no excuse now!!!
My shoulder started to feel a bit tender during the swim so I did a leg workout with a bunch of flutterboard lengths and then plunked into the warming pool against the jets to massage my shoulder. Talk about modified workout!! Oh well, I will eventually get there.

Starting to de-bloat as well, so I guess you can say that I am feeling a bit more motivated naturally so I don't have to push myself as much over the last few days. Thanks to all of you for your encouragement!

LadyRider, I am a big fan of pizza and I find it hard not to order it so I invented my own, so here is the recipe:

I use one large wholewheat pita
A bit of tomatoe sauce
I grill a whole lotta veggies on my Foreman Grill
I use some garlic, basil, oregano
I am lactose intolerant so I sprinkle a bit of Romano and put some Goat Cheese on it

Then I bake it in the toaster oven for about 10 mins.

It's pretty good!!

Cjunk

Last night was pretty much the usual....Yay...I exercised...30 minutes on the bike for a distance of 8.3km...and burned over 300 cals. You are right Mikki...Fitday rocks...when I first started using it...I was surprised to find out how many calories I was ingesting on a daily basis...It was a real eye opener. Do you use the cusomized food section of the program? Anyway, I was at 1500 concumption for the day. So, slowly, I am eating the right amount of cals per day and exercising...we will see what happens interms of weight loss.

Annie and LadyRider....I really enjoy exotic foods and Indian food is one of my favorites...so I thought I would share with you an indian curry chicken dish that offers a lot of flavor and is low in fat and calories. PS...I dont have a dutch oven...I just use a big pot ...works just as good. And you can cut the spices down to suit your taste. Let me know if you liked it. And of course anyone is welcome to try it

INDIAN CHICKEN CURRY
:D


2 Teaspoons Curry Powder
2 Teaspoons Chili Powder
2 Teaspoons Red Ground Pepper
1 Teaspoon Ground Coriander
1 Teaspoon Ground Ginger
1 Teaspoon Ground Cumin
1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
1 Tablespoon Margarine 1 Cup Onion, chopped
2 Garlic Cloves, minced
1 Pound Skinned & Boneless
Chicken Breast, cut into pieces
1 8 OZ Plain Fat Free Yogurt
1 6 OZ Can Tomato Paste
5 Cups Potatoes, cubed
4 Cups Water
2/3 Cup Tomato, chopped


Combine the first 7 ingredients. Melt the butter in a dutch oven. Sauté onion and garlicfor 3 minutes. Stir in spice mixture and sauté for 3 more minutes. Add chicken and sauté for 10 minutes. Stir often. Combine the yogurt and tomato paste; stir with a whisk. Add yogurt mixture and potatoes to the water in the pan. Bring to a boil and cover. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour. Stir occasionally. Serve over rice.


SERVINGS 9; CALORIES 315; FAT 5.2 g; PROTEIN 18.2 g; CARBS 49 g;
FIBER 3 g; CHOL 40 mg; IRON 3.1 mg; SODIUM 377 mg; CALC 96 mg
SERVING SIZE= 1 Cup
WW POINTS: 6

Hi Reina-Mia, ...how is your tooth today? PreciousOne,... How did you do on your exercising and food intake?

Cjunk...did you go swimming and how is your shoulder healing up?

Last night, when I was fixing my lunch for today...work argh! Anyway, I was preparing a tuna sandwhich...my favorite!...It smelled so good...and as you know, it was the magical hour of night time...my binging time usually...but I was strong....I made the sandwhich and put it away in the fridge when every ounce of my body was screaming for me to throw it down my neck as fast as possible....I was having vivid images of myself...eating that sandwhich...I swear...sometimes...food to me is like drugs to a drum addict...I just love everything about it....I love the way food smells, the way it looks and oh my...the way it tastes...I love preparing it, I love shopping for it...But, in the end, I won this battle and didnt eat or try a bit of the sandwhich...not even lick the knife! I think everytime I win a food battle...I get stronger and more determined.

So, does anybody have a challenge for the rest of the week! It looks like everybody here is doing so well and fighting valiant battles. I am sooooooooo proud of everyone...and I know no one is perfect and that on ocaision their are flubs...but overall, each and everyone of you is kicking ***! Continue to be strong and perservere...Each and every last one of you inspire me to keep battling my urges to binge and to get on that bike and exercise...for this I thank you from the bottom of my heart...truly

So come and post today and let me know how you are doing...every last details...the good and the bad...with plan of action of how to banish the bad days

I send you all a big hug
:grouphug:

Cyan

Ok,
Yesterday was a no junk food day, and I didn't even flinch :cb:

MikiG--Welcome back.

Cjunk--I am loving that pizza recipe.. I will be going out tonight to buy all the ingreds to make it this weekend...I hope I can find a pool to start doing those swimming exercises. I miss being in a pool.

Cyan --All is good and I am eating good today, I made my own breakfast this morning...Eggbeaters came out with a Southwestern Egg and I scrambled it up with a mini 70 cal bagel and am enjoying that very much now that I can chew again. Congrats on not eating that sandwich. I know that powerful force can come and wreck everything that you worked so hard for.
What I hate the most is you can have the best day, where you drink all your water, eat all your healthy food, and not snack on junk, then 11pm rolls around and you go and get a bottle of water in the fridge, and you see that last piece of pie in there. And the :devil: takes over.......You are toast!
I am getting better with that, I just go to bed earlier and thirstier..:lol:

I didn't do much exercise yesterday, I am trying to keep my son occupied while my husband and I are not talking. you know how our children feel the animosity, so I played with him all night.
I think that was exercise in itself.

I am going to work on my glider tonight while watching surviver, this way I get it done and not sit on my rump...

Have a great day everyone.
:grouphug:

****:D,
Seems like everyone is doing good. Did my mile walk in 17mins this morning because it was cold and I forgot my jacket! Did my 8 mins when I got home and have been moving every since. After I exercise I find it hard to sit still so I'm usually always moving around. Eating is good water too. I too have a 32oz bottle at work and usually have fill it two and a half times before I leave. Home is where the problem comes in. I usually only drink about 3-4 glasses and half a diet soda at home but when I have my bottle at home I drink all day! Hmmm seems like I need to get a bottle for home lol wouldn't you think?

I'm going to force myself to take a nap and then get up and do the bike and shower then it's off to work.

Hope everyone has a great day! Thanks for the continued support. Love you guys!

Hello to All, hope everyone is having a great day. :) Hi Miki, glad to see you back. Sorry about that, if you read that post of mine(essay really) that probably took atleast 40 minutes of your time. :o I'll start putting big warnings at the top of my post when I know it's too long.
Glad to see that everyone seems to be on track. Hey guess what I did last night? :devil: :nono: I ate a handful of potatoe chips.:s: My son brought them to me, he said Mom you've been doing so good, thought you deserved alittle treat. I said, oh goody, what did you bring me. He handed me this bag of potatoe chips. :D He said I know their not the kind that you really love but these don't seem too bad. I hesitated at first, told him I would enjoy a few later on. Then he opened the bag, the smell got to me. :devil: But after talking with him, I finially thought about it and said to myself, hey what's wrong with a few fat free chips. It's not like I was about to sit down and devour 600 calories in a second. I ate 10 chips.(they were good :) ) 20 chips has 75 calories, no fat. I thought I would feel guilty after I ate them but I didn't. He said I've been alittle too hard on myself, that I shouldn't deprieve myself of things. Just don't pig out on them. But like I told him I'm the kind of person that can't say no to certain things. I don't want junk food in my life. But it was really sweet of him to bring me the chips. He said I didn't look like me without me sitting around munching on potatoe chips. I said, well get used to the new me. I was proud that I could stop at 10 chips, hey that might sound silly but if you knew me and my love of potatoe chips you'd understand.
Well hope everyone has a successful day and night. Keep drinking water and exercising.
I will add 4 or 5 recipes after this post. Don't want them to be so long. Thanks to everyone that has posted some recipes, they sound really good. I'm going to give them a try.
:grouphug:

Recipe #1. This is what I'm having for my holiday dessert. A friend of mine fixed this dessert several months ago. I didn't realize at the time that it was lower in calories than what I thought. It taste like it is loaded in calories but it's not. I will also be making the traditional pumpkin pies, pecan pies and cheesecake. But this is what I will be enjoying. Yum.
Cherry Shortcake

21 ozs cherry pie filling
1 c powdered sugar
8 ozs fat-free cream cheese -- softened
8 ozs Cool Whip Free -- thawed
1/4 c walnuts -- chopped
13 ozs angel food cake -- cubed

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine powdered sugar, cream cheese, whipped topping and walnuts. Mix well.
2. Fold in cake cubes.
3. In a serving bowl, pour half of the cake mixture.
4. Pour half of the cherry filling on top of the cake mixture.
5. Repeat layers until all ingredients have been used.
6. Chill 3 hours before serving.

15 servings. 184 Calories, 1g Fat, 5g Protein, 40g Carbohydrate, 2mg Cholesterol, 111mg Sodium

I use the lite version cherry pie filling, and also decrease amount of powdered sugar some. In doing so the chart amounts are even lower than shown. But even as it is this recipe is very low in calories and fat for a dessert. Yum! Enjoy.

Recipe #2
Marinara Sauce

INGREDIENTS
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/4 cup chopped onion
4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
2 (14.5-ounce) cans diced tomatoes, undrained
1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes, undrained

INSTRUCTIONS
Heat oil in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic. Cook 3 minutes or until tender; stir constantly. Stir in remaining ingredients; bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer 30 minutes.
NUTRITIONAL INFO
calories: 55 carbohydrates: 8.8 g cholesterol: fat: 1.9 g sodium: 394 mg protein: 1.9 g calcium: 56 mg iron: 1.1 mg fiber: 1.1 g
I add Italian Seasoning and sometimes crushed red pepper. Also sometimes add Zucchini pieces. Lots of variation with this recipe.

Recipe #3
Alfredo Sauce(Lowfat)
1 (12 ounce) can evaporated skim milk
2 tablespoons grated nonfat parmesan cheese
3 tsp butter-flavored sprinkles
1/4 teaspoon white pepper
6 tablespoons grated nonfat parmesan cheese
1/4 cup sliced scallions (garnish) (optional)
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (garnish) (optional)
1. In a bowl, combine the evaporated skimmed milk, 2 tablespoons grated nonfat Parmesan cheese, 3 teaspoons butter-flavored sprinkles and 1/4 teaspoon ground white pepper.
2. Stir well.
3. Pour sauce over 10 oz of cooked, drained fettuccine pasta.
4. Toss gently for 2 minutes or until sauce is heated through and just begins to boil.
5. (Add a little more milk if it seems too dry.) Remove pot from heat and add the remaining 6 tablespoons grated nonfat Parmesan and toss.
6. Garnish with scallions and parsley. (optional)
7. Serve immediately.
Calories 201 Calories from Fat 4 Total Fat 0.4g Saturated Fat 0.2g Polyunsat. Fat 0g
Monounsat. Fat 0.1g
Cholesterol 21mg Sodium 349mg Potassium 835mg Total Carbohydrate 28.8g Dietary Fiber 0.3g
Protein 21.2g

Recipe #4 & #5. I'm posting these together since I use them together.

Buttermilk Pancakes
INGREDIENTS
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 cup low-fat buttermilk
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large egg, lightly beaten
Cooking spray

INSTRUCTIONS
Lightly spoon flour into a dry measuring cup; level with a knife. Combine flour and next 4 ingredients (flour through salt) in a large bowl, and make a well in center of mixture. Combine buttermilk, oil, and egg; add to flour mixture, stirring until smooth.

Spoon about 1/4 cup batter onto a hot nonstick griddle or nonstick skillet coated with cooking spray. Turn pancakes when tops are covered with bubbles and edges look cooked.

YIELD: 9 (4-inch) pancakes.

NUTRITIONAL INFO
calories: 99 carbohydrates: 14.9 g cholesterol: 0 fat: 2.9 g sodium: 211 mg protein: 3.2 g calcium: 69 mg iron: 0.8 mg fiber: 0.4 g


Blackberry Raspberry Sauce

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup sugar
1/3 cup water
1 cup fresh or frozen blackberries
1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

INSTRUCTIONS
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan, and bring to a boil. Cook for 1 minute over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves. Combine the sugar syrup, blackberries, raspberries, and lemon juice in a blender. Pulse 3 times or until the berries are chopped. Cover and chill.

YIELD: 1-3/4 cups (serving size: 2 tablespoons)
I store remaining sauce in an airtight container for later use. This is also good as an icecream(fat free icecream of course) topping. But I mainly use it on pancakes. I also decrease the amount of sugar alittle, but not much.
NUTRITIONAL INFO
calories: 33 carbohydrates: 9.6 g cholesterol: 0 mg fat: 0.1 g sodium: 0 mg protein: 0.2 g calcium: 5 mg iron: 0.1 mg
fiber: 1.1 g

Annie - Reading your post made me want to cry...I am such an emotional blubber.

My little 3 year old, knows I can't eat the junk anymore either, and he came to me with a mini kit-kat and told me it's ok, it is small. When i read your story, I just thought of my son, and how what we do really does impact others in our household.

I applaud you for not allowing the urge of a bag of chips to take you on.:bravo:

Love the recipes, I hope to use them soon.

Precious_one - Good work with the water, I haven't been as diligent with it myself, but I think I am heading to the store to pickup those 32 oz bottles for myself....

Have a great evening, I am about to head home to work out on my glider while watching Surviror and Friends.....l

:high: :high:

Lime Salsa Chicken(serves 4)
4 (4-6 oz.) fresh boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 lime, juiced
3/4 cup Apple Flavor LIBBY'S® JUICY JUICE® 100% Juice
2 teaspoons cornstarch
1 MAGGI® Chicken Bouillon Cubes

Spray a large skillet with vegetable cooking spray. Heat over medium heat before adding chicken breasts. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, or until tender,* turning to brown evenly. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

In a mixing bowl combine lime juice, apple juice, cornstarch and bouillon cube. Add to skillet and cook, stirring, until thick. Spoon sauce over chicken to serve.

190 cal, 2grams of fat;

Hope you enjoy this.

Good evening to All. Hope everyone is having a great evening. I just finished my bike riding for the night. I was only able to get in 2 sessions today. But atleast I am staying somewhat on track.

reina_mia, you and Precious One are doing great with the water consumption. When I started out I barely was able to get a 12oz. bottle drank a day. I applaud you both, great work.
reina_mia, you are so right about that. We don't realize how much an affect we have on the rest of our family when we change things that have been routine for so long. My family is adapting well to my new recipes. Most of the time they can't tell the difference in them. It has taken me a while to convert most of my recipes to healthy ones. Some of them were disasters at first. Been mostly a trial and error until I got them right. But along the way I have found a lot of new healthy recipes that are delicious. Some of my old ones just don't turn out right when I convert them. So that's when I go looking for a recipe that is close to what I used to fix that is healthy. Your lime salsa chicken sounds delicious. I'm always looking for new chicken recipes. I get stuck in ruts using the same ones over and over again. I'm going to try Cyan's chicken recipe also. Cjunk has a great idea with the pizza recipe. I love pizza but have avoided it. This sounds like a recipe that I could get my pizza fix with. Thanks to everyone for posting a recipe. Great idea Lady. Hopefully everyone will continue to post some so we can swap, I'm always looking for good healthy recipes, especially ones that someone has tried and gives it a thumbs up.

Thought I would post some substitutions that can be used to lower the fat content in recipes. I use these a lot.

When your recipe says... . . . Try this instead
Whole milk (1 cup) Use: 1 cup skim or nonfat milk plus one tablespoon of unsaturated oil

Heavy cream (1 cup) Use: 1 cup evaporated skim milk or 1/2 cup low-fat yogurt and 1/2 cup plain low-fat cottage cheese

Sour cream Use: Low-fat cottage cheese plus low-fat or nonfat yogurt (fat-free sour cream is also available)

Cream cheese Use:4 tablespoons margarine blended with 1 cup dry low-fat cottage cheese; add a small amount of skim milk if needed (fat free cream cheese is also available)

Butter (1 tablespoon) Use: 1 tablespoon polyunsaturated margarine or 3/4 tablespoon polyunsaturated oil

Shortening (1 cup) Use: 2 sticks polyunsaturated margarine(applesauce can also be used instead of shortening)

Egg (1) Use:1 egg white plus 2 teaspoons of unsaturated oil or commercially made, cholesterol-free egg substitute

Unsweetened baking chocolate (1 ounce) Use:3 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder or carob powder plus 1 tablespoon polyunsaturated oil or margarine. Carob is sweeter than cocoa, so reduce sugar in recipe by 1/4

Does anyone else have any substitutions they would like to add?
Hope you ladies have a nice evening and a great day tomorrow.
Stay Confident. Keep up the great work.
:grouphug:

Arrrrrrrrrghhhhhhhhh!! Did pretty well all day then just few minutes ago, I happened up on a box of Malted Milk Ball chocolate candy that I didnt even realize we had. Just ate 3 of them but it added 95 calories to today's intake!! :( Sad thing is I REALLY wanted MORE!!!

Oh well, getting ready to go exercise some of it off. Hopefully the kids will eat the rest of them soon..lol I just added up all my calories since Sunday, and my average is 1425 a day. A little higher than I was hoping but MUCH better than I used to do so I'm not going to let it depress me.

So great finding all the new recipes in here tonite. When I have time, I'll add to the list. As usual, I only have a few minutes so cant type much. Just have to at least check in with the "chicks" and see how you're all progressing.

I'm determined to get in this weekend long enough to stay and write all I want. As I'm reading posts, I always think of things to add to each one then I end up having to rush to get everything else done around here and cant type all I'd like to. So you all just watch out when I do..it might be a book..LOL

Hope everyone has a GREAT Friday!!! Oh, just remembered...another out of town ballgame Fri nite so might not make it in here.:( I'll enjoy the game tho..I love watching my kids play!:D

Bye for now!:)

I LOST 4.5 lbs...................:dance: :dance: :dancer: :cb: :cb:
I was too excited, I had to tell someone.
Will talk to you all tomorrow, I am going to go suck on some ice!
Talk to you all tomorrow.

:wave: Hi All!
Wow, some great posts tonight! I love all the recipies! I'm printing them out so I can try each of them. By the way, did I mention I don't cook? :lol: Actually, I do have a lentil soup recipi I will share when I have time to write more.
Prescious, I really identify with exercising giving you energy. I rode my bike last night then went to bed. BAD Mistake! 2:30 in the morning and I'm still awake. lol Next time I ride it will be much earlier in the day!
Reina_mia, Bravo onyour no junk food day! :cb: You are on your way, girl!
Cyan, You must have been riding hard and long to burn all those calories! Good for you! You had me laughing out lound at your description of resisting your tuna sandwich. Your body screaming to throw it down your neck. :lol: Good for you for wining that battle. You're right, it does make you stronger each time you overcome those urges. By the way, I keep hearing this faint sound. It seems to be coming from the corner of your kitchen. If I listen very carefully I can just make it out. "Cyaaaannnnn, I'm lonely! Come and ride me!" ;)
Cjunk, What a nice thing to say, Thank you! I love this list and the people on it are awesome!
Miki, now, what do you mean the sad thing is you wanted more malt balls? I'll bet what you ment to say was, Good for me! I resisted eating more malt balls! Right? :cp:
Congrats on getting back on track with your calories. Have you considered jotting them down as your eat, then you can keep an eye on how many you've eaten and avoid that rude surprise when you enter them onto the web site.
Annie, that was a tough decision. Refuse the chips and risk hurting your son's feelings or eat chips and feel guilty. I think you made the perfect choice - eat just a few chips. ..and you were careful to count them. Excellent! By the way, I love your comment to"Get used to the new me." Oh, and thanks for the substitution list!
Well, I had a great day. I met my best friend for lunch. Now this is the kind of friend who is truly there for you, so when we talk anything goes and it's happy, sad, and silly, all rolled into one. We can only get together once a month, so when we do lunch we don't mess around, we really make a production out of it. First we met at 12:30, did some catching up talk and ate veggie wraps at this great little resteraunt, then went shopping for a new recliner for her husband. We had fun trying every piece of furniture in the store while we talked some more. We even resisted the cookies the store had set out for the customers. Then we went to Borders Book Store and perused though the exercise books. My friend bought one on walking, I looked at the running books. We finished with more talking while we enjoyed our tea and low fat biscotti. We said our good byes at 5pm. What a great afternoon. :flow2:

Everyone have a great Friday!

Lady

I have been reading through the posts this morning and I've got to say that I am really starting to get hooked on this group! What emotions we all share with each other.

Reina-mia, great work on the no junk food day! 4.5 pounds--wow! That is great. Congratulations! :bravo:

MikiG--not to worry about the chocolate. You didn't do badly with a few treats and 98 cals is not all that bad. Sometimes it can be counterproductive to totally deny ourselves a few here and there because it just makes us give up all together. You can compensate on another day when you don't feel like treats at all.

PreciousOne-exercise is giving you energy--and lots of water--you are an inspiration to plug on!...I start noticing increased energy but not until a bit later in the game.

I was at a funeral yesterday for a close friend's mother whom I knew quite well. It was a challenging day and I am an emotional eater but I guess I did pretty well with that. I ended up eating as many calories as I would have to in order to maintain my current weight as opposed to losing. However, I did swim for almost an hour of lengths yesterday before the funeral and it helped me to destress a lot. It also compensated for the extra calories eaten because it helped to burn them. My shoulder was only a bit tender which was an excellent sign and I had to use the flutter board for a while to give it a rest and not overdo it. I forgot how relaxing swimming is for me. I get so focussed on breathing that I forget everything else. It is very peaceful.

The recipes all look fantastic. I would love to be adventurous enough to cook curry Cyan, so I think I may try it. I always go out to dinner for Curry (it is very yummy)--vietnamese curry is my favorite! Great work with your bike riding! Alas mine is still collecting dust in the kitchen. I can hear it whispering though! It is an outdoor bike so I will have to look into buying a trainer for it.

The substitutes are great also Annie! I follow a trick if I am ever baking anything that requires oil to keep the baked good's moisture. I will substitute 1/2 applesauce (unsweetened) or 1/2 plain yoghurt (sometimes the yoghurt adds bitterness) for part of the oil to reduce the fat. I also use herbs a lot in my cooking and fat free salad dressing for marinades--for grilled veggies and meats. I think you did very well with only having a few chips--it was a fantastic start to adapting to your new you! Next to french fries, that is by far my favorite thing to eat. I haven't had any in so long it even made my mouth water reading the story! So, we can work on chip cravings together.

LadyRider, I have some questions about running. You have sort of inspired me to try it. There is a track right behind the rec centre where I swim so I thought I might start with a few laps of the track and then build up to it. Unfortunately, each time I try and run my knees hurt afterwards a bit and also my lungs end up coughing up a lot of gunk (I also feel a little pukey). I definitely don't smoke and my lungs are usually clear. Any tips on what I might be doing wrong?? The experience for me is usually unpleasant which is why I have never gotten into running. Any suggestions for beginners? I also think I have crappy shoes. I haven't tried it long enough to see if it will get better.


Talk to you all soon--I love this group--keep up the great posts--and the fantastic work!!!

Cjunk

You girls rock! I so enjoy reading your posts and I love the fact that everybody is keeping on track and doing their ultimate best. Everyone here should be proud of their success and what valiant efforts to resist or cut down on tempting foods.

Annie I agree with LadyRider...kudos on you for finding a diplomatic way of dealing with the chips and your son...and I admire your courage to say "this is the new me" Those recipes had my mouth watering :lol:

LadyRider....aren't friends the best! I makes a whole difference when you have a close friend to hang out with and really connect. And I must say, you made wise food choices young lady...you kept on track....kudos to you. Oh the tuna sandwhich tastes just as good the next day!;) Does anybody have any stories to share about food battles ...I've got plenty....will post to amuse you ladies.

MikkiG...those malt balls spoke your name girl...but you did so well, honestly, if it were me, I would of sucked back that whole box...then would have felt miserable over it....so 3 malt balls is not the end of the world....movin on....you can burn 98 calories with a heary laugh:lol:

Hi Reina_Mia WOW WOOHOO 4.5 pounds!!! Oh my! that is fantastic! How many calories are you consuming and what is your exercise regime? And did you buy your water bottle? At work, since I have been drinking all this water, toilet trips are way up, I think I may have to wear a diaper or get a catheter put in:yikes:
Since my water increase, I feel better...just healthier...and myskin is so soft and less dry thus far this winter.

PreciousOne How are you doing? Let me know how things have been going for you...details please:)

Well as for me, last night, another 30 minutes of the bike for a distance of 8.4km and 305 or so cals burned....this weekend I will be doing power yoga...and brisk walking...during the weekdays cause of my work and mom, I do the bike cause it fits into my schedule but on the weekends, I can vary up my exercise a little more. So I send everyone a big hug and good energy...have a good weekend. Stay strong, motivated and make wise choices

Cyan

I have not forgotten you....I am always amazed at how much exercise you get in...so motivated and I felt your struggles earlier this week and last when you were feeling bloated and had to push harder to keep exercising....that alone gives me strength cause last night, I didn't really feel like exercising but I remembered your post about your bloatedness...and how you had to push harder...and how you felt better afterward for doing it...well that encouraged me to exercise last night and you were right, I felt better...so thank you for your inspiration and wisdom.

I am sorry to hear about your friend's mom's funeral...I will send a prayer to your friend. And you handled your emotional eating very well, it makes you a stronger person when you dont jeapardize your health journey...this means that you are changing your coping mechanisms to better handle life crisis...the fact that you did not cave and emotional eat is a profound accomplishment for you.

So pat yourself on the back and celebrate this accomplishment.

Cyan

I hope everyone is doing good today.
Cjunk, you are so right, it is a blessing to be part of such a great group. With everyone sharing their emotions the way they do. It has opened me up to be a better person.
And I want you all to know that because of this Group....
I am still here fighting to be the perfect me... I now realize that because I lacked the support of other in the past, that is exactly why I never succeeded at any of my diets. But now I don't consider this a diet. I consider it as a life altering change for the betterment of my future...
I would never talk about my weight and flab with anyone, and I am here opening up myself to you all, because you all remind me that I am not alone at this. And for all that I thank you!:balloons:

LadyRider --Don't you just love the feeling of having a friend that you can unravel right in front of and they just pick right up and tell you "Get it together woman!"
I have a dear friend who I know will be there for anything.
Great choices for lunch and snacks, I am still having a hard time when we go out to eat. I just can't seem to order that all too healthy stuff yet:burger: But I do cut down on my intake of whatever I do order.
Cjunk- Sorry to hear about your friend's mother. I will say a special prayer today. Losing family is tough, Losing a Mom is undescribeable. Great that you didn't allow the emotional eating to take over. I am a huge Emotional Eater, and I usually always give in. Keep up the good work!
Cyan- You motivate me so much with your exercise regimine:strong:. I wish I could get to your level one day.
Right now, I don't actually have a regimine. I do Taebo in the mornings 3 times a week if I can, I do my glider for about 30 minutes, but I break that down within an hour. I can only do so much with my asthma. I did fall off the water wagon but I will be back on today. I just went and bought my 32oz bottle of water. Keep up the good work, and strong energy
Yesterday was the first time I weighed myself in almost a month. So I feel really good about this. I even walk lighter.:joker:
I wish you all a great weekend and I send you a a big hug.
:grouphug: :grouphug:

Hi reina_mia....ummm you do have an exercise regimen...if a duck quacks and acts like a duck...its a duck. Doing taebo in the mornings 3 times a week...is an exercise regimen....doing your glider for 30 minutes ...howerver you break it down...it is an exercise regimen.... please give yourself credit...validate your efforts ...we are always so quick to point out our failures and overeating and all that but we always minimize our accomplishements...so the challenge for you and everyone else is to validate your accomplishements....victories....everything that is positive...give it the credit and value it deserves....ok?...okay!!!:D

you wrote:

"I don't actually have a regimine. I do Taebo in the mornings 3 times a week if I can, I do my glider for about 30 minutes, but I break that down within an hour...."

cyan

I guess I do have a regimen!! :o
Thank Cyan for pointing that out. I am so fixed on catching all my faults that I really don't realize that i am doing something good finally...

How I wish you can talk to my mother for me..... :lol: I was raised with always catching my faults, I don't really realize when I do good.

Thanks again.

Hooray! I have a regimen:strong:

reina_mia :bravo: on the weight loss! You go girl! You are doing great with your plans.
How was the new egg beaters? I saw those in the grocery store the other day. Let me know if I should give them a try. I'm always looking for something new to try.

Miki, I congratulate you for your will power on the candy. I still have cravings for candy. I think you did great. Proud of you.

Here's a story about a food battle, or should I say candy battle. I think Cyan is the one that asked about that question. It's not much of a story but it's still fresh in my mind. When I first started I had a rough time of not wanting to eat candy. Well I was shopping and I had finished, started going towards the check out. I looked at the cart and said to myself, I did great, there is no junkfood in this cart. Well I was standing there waiting for my turn to get checked out. And we all know what is right next to the check out. CANDY! I stood there and all of a sudden the thought occured to me, don't I remember hearing that 3 Musketeers only has 1 gram of fat. I grabbed a bar with such enthusiasm, thinking oh I have found a way to be able to eat a candy bar. So I picked it up, felt like I had found a gold mine. I turned it over to read the label on the back. My heart sank standing there clutching my 3 Musketeers bar. Why did it have to have so many calories, maybe I could just eat around the calorie part and just eat the 1 gram of fat!:D Just doesn't seem fair. :(
Cyan, sounds like you are doing great. Willpower is hard to come by. You have developed some very healthy plans that will take you to your goals.
Lady, what do you mean you don't cook? Does this mean you have a chef? Can I borrow him someday? :^: It would be really nice of you to share with the rest of the group. I would like him to be here on weekends. So mark that down, Annie will have the chef on weekends to cook for her. And if he happens to have a cheesecake recipe that has no fat and no calories tell him to bring it with him when he comes.
Precious One and Lady, I know exactly what you mean about that energy force that comes after exercising. I will feel tired sometimes and say maybe I should just rest tonight instead of doing my last exercise session. But I will climb up on the bike and do my 30 minutes. Don't know what happened to the tiredness but when I finish I feel like I could run a mile. I try not to do any of my sessions past 9:30 at night. Except for tonight, I haven't done my last one yet. Looks like I will be running that mile way past midnight!:lol:
Cjunk, glad to hear you are feeling some better. You give me such motivation. Sounds like you have such a busy schedule but yet you continue to stay on track.
I agree, I think this is the best group around. All you ladies rock:strong:
I just had a challenge for myself earlier. Had a craving for something sweet :nono:( like candy or cake), I got a cup of yogurt, craving gone. :dance:
Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. Might go hiking. Wish me luck.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated :grouphug:

Hi all, Hi Cyan !! I took your advice and here I am tonight. It was not what you would call a great day for anything, especially dieting but tomorrow I will try to have a better resolve. As a matter of fact, I'm going to go to bed now and get this day over with. They say you shouldn't wish time away but I can live with that tonight !! haha Looking very much forward to getting to know you all. :dizzy:

Hello:wave:

Hope everyone's weekend has gotten off to a good start.

Went out with the family for lunch. didn't do too bad. Green beans, barbecue pork, macoroni and cheese, and small strawberry shortcake. Then 2pc of fish and tarter suace for dinner at work. Sounds horrible BUT still under 1500 calories!!!!! Two bottles of water plus a Dr Soy Bar. I know, I was greedy today!!! I kind of feel bad because I didn' get any exercise in.

Ok I'm going to bed now, be back at a decent hour:D Hopefully I'll have time to add a few recipes.

Remember one day at a time.

Good Morning All and welcome PattyF :wave:

I went to the Doctor's yesterday for my yearly physical and all was well--I lost a few more pounds and am now back to the weight I was at before my injury---yaay!!! That was my goal!!!. I would like to lose a few pounds more because it would be excellent to be in the best physical shape and I discussed with my doctor what would be healthy for me and we both decided I could lose up to 10 more pounds and be in a healthy range. I am on a roll and want to keep it up!! I know it was an accurate weight too because it was one of those real scales...yikes!

Annie, great work on the cravings!! Keep it up and you will definitely be at your goal and then some!!

Cyan--here is my food craving. I constantly crave McDonalds!! I think that everyone already knows this one. I go past it everyday on my way to work and the smell just gets to me...so I took LadyRider's advice and on my weaker days I take a much longer route home. My second next food craving constant is a tie between pizza and potato chips--but I won't talk much more about those because my mouth is watering just thinking about them!!!

PreciousOne---your lunch sounded very good...and it sounds like you were able to meet a 1500 cal day which is impressive...try and plan a longer exercise session this weekend and you should be okay!

Has anyone ever had eating dreams???I find when I have food cravings at night and I go to bed I dream I am at the most fantastic buffet--and guess what Annie? I am eating all the cheesecake I want!! (which is weird because with my lactose intolerance my tummy would hate me)!! My dream is in technicolour and I wake up full the next day!!!! Can I gain weight that way?????

I wish that you all lived in my area because even though I can't eat it the girls at work found a low fat low cal cheesecake called Lil'Cravings. It is a diabetic dessert at a store called zarky's about the size of a yoghurt and is 55cals, no sugar added and .5 grams of fat. The girls at work say it is a fluffier version of cheesecake but yummy!!

Looking forward to hearing from the group this weekend. This is my most challenging time of the week...so I am going out to my parents to see if I can convince my mom to do a workout with me. I'll let you know how it goes.

Cjunk

Hey Patty glad you made it over to our little corner...we are a great group of ladies, amazingly motivated, positive and on different stages of our weight loss journey/health journey. So jump on in and start sharing!

Yesterday...afterwork, I had to do some errands and then as per usual....myself, and my two best buddies....Ivano and Lisa usually hang out at Lisa's place to have dinner and chill...dinner was good...had seafood salad with side salad, a little wine...like 3oz
and yes apple crumble pie...but I was still under 1500 cals....not bad at all. By the time I got home, it was 10.30pm...very tired but believe it or not....I still exercised:D yep, I did 25 minutes for a distance of 7km and burned 250 cals....and for this I thank your collective support and good energy....thank you thank you thank you...truly!:cb:

Cjunk, omg....wow! I am so happy for you...you are doing so well..how much do you weigh now? I'm gonna remeasure myself after I get and finish my period and I will post here for updates...its later on this month towards the end.

Hi PreciousOne...good going on the cal consumption...you could eat almost anything in moderation and still stick to your cal range...isnt that so much better knowing that there is not a life of diet restrictions and denial of food...I couldn't do this if I knew I could never have regular food.

Annie that candy bar story cracked me up...sometimes when I want to eat something that is calorie and fat laden...I eat it as quickly as possible before I can reason myself out of eating it...pretty pathetic..I know...but its true. This morning for breakfast...I found this custard tart...inhaled it....it cost me 267 cals and 7 grams of fat.:o But thats ok....I will exercise it off.

Well girls...hope you have a great weekend...looking forward to reading your posts...they always put a smile on my face

Cyan

Hi All!
Patty! Nice to meet you! :wave: Boy I know what you mean – some days you're just better off packing it in and going to be early. As as matter of fact I did just that the other day. Nothing seemed to go right, so I hit the sack at 7pm and slept straight through till 7 the next morning, when I woke refreshed and ready to tackle the world again.
We went to see Harry Potter with friends last night, then out to dinner. We ate at a new Italian place and I was so discouraged to see there wasn’t a healthy item on the menue. I ended up getting vegetarian lasagna, thinking it wouldn’t be so bad, but it was swimming in a cream sauce and had a 2” thick layer of cheese poured on top. :mad: I pulled back most of the chese, ate half the lasagna and 3 garlic rolls that literally came swimming in a bath of butter. Oh well, won’t be going back there again. Thank goodness the scale didn’t show a gain this morning, and today was a healthy food day. I haven’t been able to exercise for two days, but tomorrow I will run again – even if it rains! :jig:
Cjunk, Congratulations on meeting your goal! Wow, what a wonderful feeling! You must be so proud. :bravo: You had some questions about running. First let me tell you I am a raw beginner, only been doing this since September, so I’m sure no expert. Also, I really jog more than run. I don’t know what condition you’re in, but if you are coughing that hard, I’m guessing you are over extending yourself. Start out slowly and don’t go so far. There will be time to increase your speed and endurance as you go. There is an excellent running list you can check out for good advice on how to start, what to do about knee pain, etc.
http://forums.about.com/ab-running/messages/?start=Start+Reading+%3E%3E
Also, there is a great book called "The courage to start" by John "The Penguin" Bingham. He tells you everything you need to know to get started in an easy to read fun little book. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t like running (or jogging). You might like walking or there are lots of other exercises to try. Just keep trying them until you find the one that works for you.
Reina_mia I only wish I had a chef! :lol: I have never enjoyed cooking, and when I went back to school to become a nurse I told my family it was time they became more independent…washed their own clothes, cooked their own meals…you get the picture. So “mom doesn’t cook” has long been a family joke. Now our kids are all grown and moved out, except our oldest son who has moved in with us temporarily while he saves up to buy a house…and he cooks his own meals. My husband isn’t a food person, he eats to live, doesn’t live to eat. He’s a bit picky and doesn’t like most of the foods I do, consequently, he often fixes his own dinner and I throw together something for myself. If it’s easy and doesn’t take a lot of work, I’ll cook it. Rice is nice. Throw in some frozen veggies (they don’t have to be cleaned or trimmed) and put on some soy sauce or butter and parmesan and I’m happy. I did make some lentil soup the other day. I threw the lentils, some onions, garlic, sliced carrots, a hambone and chunks of ham into a pot, cooked it until the lentils were soft, threw in some salt and pepper and Voila! Soup! ‘Course it didn’t taste all that great – but it was really filling! :lol: Now baking – that I love. It’s a great source of relaxation for me, but I almost never do it anymore ‘cause I eat what I bake.
Annie, thanks for the note. I’m doing fine, just been a bit busy. I sure identified with your candy bar story. Used to be I couldn’t go grocery shopping without buying a 3musketeers. I love chocolate and when we were little my sister and I got 25cents each for our weekly allowance. (well … so this was a few years ago, ok?) Anyway, we would pool our money and go to the corner store to buy candy and pop (soda).
We always bought a 3Muskateer and shared it, so that candy bar brings back some wonderful memories and is a real comfort food for me. It's still Very hard to resist at the check out counter.
Looks like all you ladies are doing great in keeping to your goals. I'm so proud of you! :smug: You’re balancing your eating with exercise and I believe that’s the only way we will succeed. I totally agree with you, Cyan. We all have our Trigger Foods that we have to stay away from, but otherwise we could eat almost anything in moderation and still stick to our calorie range.
Doesn’t it feel great to know we are succeeding and weare in control – notour cravings!

Talk to you all tomorrow,
Stay well,
Lady:grouphug:

:balloons:
Hello Again!
I really like this little poem and want to share it with you all.

I wish for you comfort on difficult days,
Rainbows to follow the clouds
Laughter to kiss your lips Sunsets to warm your heart
Gentle hugs when spirits sag
Friendships to brighten your being,
Beauty for your eyes to see,
Confidence for when you doubt,
Faith so that you can believe,
Courage to know yourself,
Patience to accept the truth,
And love to complete your life.

Have a great weekend,
:grouphug:

:balloons: Welcome, Pat! You've chosen a great group to join. I promise you'll love it here!

I'm in a really good mood tonite!!:cb: Except for that one bad nite when I had wayyy too much spaghetti and went a little over 2000 calories, this is the BEST week I've had as far as my eating in a lonnnngggg time. ( like in a year ) I have found out that "healthy" is definitely the way to go. For the past year, I have pretty much eaten one meal a day, two at the most because I work thru my lunch hour alot and I've never liked breakfast. I only ate at nite with my family. I decided to try eating 3 small healthy meals a day instead of the one big one at night. It was very hard for me because I have this mental block about eating 3 meals. In the back of my mind I always feeling like I'm eating too much if I eat 3 times. At first it was almost like I couldnt enjoy it because I felt like I was blowing it. And I sure never thought I could afford adding a snack on top of the 3 meals. But since last Sunday, I have stuck with it, and it has paid off!:cp:

I did blow the challenge I gave myself about waiting 2 weeks to weigh myself. I just couldnt stand it anymore and had to find out before I kept eating 3 whole meals. I was too scared not to just in case I was gaining instead of losing. Sooo...I did it. I got the scales out (which I had hid from myself to keep from using them so much..lol) and weighed today. I was 5 lbs lighter and lost an inch in my waist and an inch in each thigh! :D I could not believe it!!! ( of course this is one time that I WILL let the scale judge me LOL ) Oh almost forgot about the exercise...Still using my AirWalker and I wasnt joking last Sunday about only being able to make it 5 minutes or so. I was ashamed at how out of breath I got from just that little bit. But I'm now doing 15 minutes at a time now. (Still out of breath but I can make it at least )

Cyan, you are right. It IS possible to eat GOOD things ( even those not necessarily considered healthy) and stay within a lower calorie range. We had that out of town ballgame last nite and it was late when we stopped to eat. I almost didnt eat because nothing on the fast food menu seems to be something I should have but I had a small cheeseburger and 10 of my son's french fries and still barely had over 1000 calories when I logged everything I'd had all day. I had dreaded adding it all up. Just wish I had known WHILE I ate the cheeseburger because it would have tasted a whole lot better knowing I didnt have to feel guilty.

Cjunk, :bravo: I'm so envious of you reaching your goal! More happy for you than envious tho...I'll get there someday too :) You're an inspiration to the rest of us to stick with it! That 5 lbs I lost is a start. If I do as well for 14 more weeks, I'll reach MY goal...or if I do only half as well for 28 weeks..LOL

Anyone else noticed that we all seem to be a little more cheery than we were this time last week?? I think the weather had to do with some of that. At least here. Rained all weekend last week but it was a beautiful day out today.

Lady, that lasagna is making my mouth water! I could just picture the cheese as you pulled it back. All melted and gooey and YUMMMM!! Cheese makes anything good! There is no way I could have been as strong as you and turned that down. Good job on the will power!

Precious One, your lunch sounds delicious too! See?? Thats my problem, I love it all!!

Reina_Mia, I agree with you. This group is a big part of the reason I'm on track now. My weight isnt something I like discussing with most people but here I seem perfectly comfortable doing just that. Feels good to know others struggle just as much as I do. Feels even better to know they struggle but still overcome!!

Annie, thanks for the candy bar story! It is the reason I'm sitting here glued to this chair rather than going to get a handful of those malted milk balls that I am DYING for right now. I'm telling myself " Noooo..just think of those calories you'll be wasting when you're not even hungry. "

My husband told me today that he thinks he can already see a difference in my size. I think he is just trying to be nice and helpful but it gave me incentive to keep on. Not only do I want to be healthier, I want to look good for him. He is great...never once has he made a negative comment about my weight even tho during our 18 years of marriage, I have gained 80 lbs or more. He constantly tells me how pretty I look no matter what weight I'm at and I know he really means it. But I want to do this for him as much as for me. I've always kinda felt like people see us and think, "Wow, how did SHE get HIM?" lol or even worse, "Poor thing, how did HE get stuck with HER?" LOL The answer is easy tho...I was just lucky!:lucky: :)

Well, both kids are arguing who gets the computer next and it's already getting kinda late so I guess I better go for now. Hope everyone has a fantastic rest of the weekend!! :cloud9:

MIKI :flow2:

PS...anyone heard from WI_Wide lately??? I miss her!:(

Miki and Annie - I FOUND YOU! Thanks Annie for the update as to where you had moved. I have not had time to get on the computer. I was stuck out of town three days last week. Living out of a suitcase and eating out every meal, I was so stressed out because of a bad snow storm I couldn't get home, so I ate.

Have decided not to even get on a scale, I know I was bad. I am such a stressful eater, and driving in an unfamiliar town, in a bad storm just created havoc in my life, it took me a few days just to settle my nerves. I think the wedding was a breeze, compared to last week.

Now that I found you all again, I will try to be faithful to check in. If nothing else, it is a daily reminder for me to be better at portion control and water.

Well today I am planning a big birthday for my daughter who just got married. First she gets 3 wedding showers all with presents, then she gets wedding presents, today she gets birthday presents, next month Christmas presents, then baby shower presents, she is going to be so depressed in a few months when eventually she won't get presents!

Keep in touch everyone, gald to "see" you all again! WI-wide
Go Pack Go!:p

Hello WI-Wide, so glad to meet you--it sounds like you have a busy next few months of celebration with your daughter--congratulations! I would love to be in her shoes someday.

MikiG Congratulations!!! :spin: You deserve a big victory dance!! I think changing meal patterns is one of the hardest things to do and you have proven that it can be done! And weight loss as well--great work! I will use you as my inspiration for eating breakfast on those days where I don't feel like any!!!

LadyRider, thanks for the information! To answer some of your questions, I would say that I am normally capable of moderate to high cardio where I can usually sustain it for up to 1hr or so without feeling too bad. I would consider myself to be in good shape--which is why I can't understand why I feel crappy when I run. I think you are right that perhaps I am starting too fast. Maybe I will try a walk to run method. Thanks for the website info too! I will read on about the knees!

Cyan, thanks for the support! I am going to hold off on announcing weight for now, because I am superstitious that I will re-gain. Until I can sustain this loss I will wait for a bit....I have lost an inch overall pretty much everywhere and am back into my old pants. I think that even though I weigh the same I am not as toned as my pants still aren't as comfortable as they used to be..I will get there soon!

My boyfriend is making breakfast this morning and I am impressed! He's grilling veggies and then scrambling them in the Break Free egg substitute for us. I really like that stuff. I find I can feel full with very few calories and little fat and still feel like I've had my eggs!

Yesterday wasn't the greatest eating day for me. I really didn't have any fruits or veggies which is unusual for me---gotta get those today! I visited my parents in the morning and had a single poached egg on dry toast and then a small serving of pasta later in the evening with my boyfriend's parents---I was very undernourished yesterday and not to mention starving all afternoon but we were stuck in a training where they didn't feed us!! (they had pops and a bunch of different potato chips--1 had 10 chips which cost me a lot in calories! and a diet soda).

I hiked with my mom in the morning. They have a beautiful hiking trail near their house and we hiked for 11/2 hours--with lots of hills!! It was cold and snowing here but we were too warm to notice the temperature from the hill climbing!! I guess I burned off those chips!

Although I did reach my goal I think there are two challenges for me:

1. Maintaining my goal
2.Reaching my new goal that I developed with the help of my doctor!

So I guess you can say that I am happy with the success but am going to build on it! Thanks for all of your support!!! I don't think it would have come this quickly without all of you!

I had a few discouraging things happen yesterday:

My mom said, "wow you look good but remember your genes...your aunts all have the same build as you and look where they got for not keeping it up. You are going to have to be diligent for the rest of your life or you will be overweight and have health issues"---and..."you were really getting chubby there for a while" not exactly what I needed to hear right then and there---needless to say I felt that "forever" is too big and not attainable.

She did her best to support me in her own way but I think it was challenging because I was a little sensitive yesterday!! It was excellent for her to come hiking and encourage my fitness as well. I know that she had best intentions in mind.


Looking forward to reading all your posts! Gotta go plan the day for eating and exercise or else I will crash and burn--I usually have trouble on weekends! I think I will pick up sushi from the grocery store for a nice light dinner. We had a gorgeous snowfall that stayed on the ground last night---Cyan did you get this in Montreal too? I should go out and play in it!

Cjunk

Yesterday was a not so good eating day...ok Girls sit back and get a load of this...drum role please: I started breakfast with a custard tart....I had prepared a eggwhite and ham breakfast but just couldnt eat it...wouldnt go down the throat...So I had cream cheese and bread to go along with that custard tart....then for lunch,I had a horrible frozen dinner ...just gross...so I felt sorry for myself....I met up with my friend to go see Harry Potter but it was all sold out...the time slot we wanted to go see it in...so we went for dessert instead...had an orange juice and a large oatmeal cookie.....so we went back to her place and the three of us rented a movie and I had tortilla chips...salsa...baby carrots and dip...made with mayonaise...and lots and lots of fat pepsi.....needless to say...at the end of my soiree....I had ingested 1988 calories and 74 grams of fat!:eek: And...I did not exercise....On the good side, I cleaned my house for two hours...heavy duty cleaning and according to fitday...I spent 320 cals doing that...I also walked around downtown for about an hour although not at a quick pace.

Today, is a new day, I will eat healthily...my body deserves and needs good nutrition....that is my plan of action.

welcome back WI-Wide....we are a great bunch of ladies. Oh Mikki...how wonderful for you....you see, my eating regularly and exercising...you have increased your metabolism...thats the key to weightloss...if you dont eat regularly...your metabolism slows down cause your body is in starvation mode....you are on your way to a healthier thinner you....I send you a big hug of congratulations....Oh ...can I clone your husband...he's seems amazingly supportive....its nice to have support especially from your significant other.

LadyRider...that poem is exactly what I needed to start the day right...thank you.

Cjunk...yes we have tons of snow outside...woke up this morning to it...I think it started snowing late last night and boy has it pilled up outside...kinda fun...it puts me in a christmas mode:)
I know your Mom meant well, but you have to believe that you will be a healthy weight because you have the control and power to do this....you have chosen a lifestyle that you enjoy....yes maintenance has its challenges but you will do it....you will remember how healthy and energetic you feel...how your clothes fit...how comfortable you feel in your clothes....how good you look...And, you will be the person you want to be because you want that for yourself...it is important to you and you are a smart, pro-active gal....Lots of reasons for you to stay inshape...and as you age, your body will thank you.

Good morning ladies:wave:

Got up and went for my morning walk thinking it would make me feel better. Not today, I feel even worse than I did before I went but at least I gave it a try. Had eggwhites for breakfast don't feel like cooking so who knows what I will eat for dinner!

Cjunk, congratulations :cp: :bravo: :cp: on reaching your goal! I've never had eating dreams. I have had times when I would be craving something and could taste it! That cheese cake sounds wonderful. I'm going to keep an eye open for it. Hiking seems like so much fun. I wish we had trails here. Your mom meant well. Mine is the same way, saying whatever's on her mind but not meaning any harm.

Cyan, I agree I couldn't do it either if I had to only eat certain foods.

Ladyrider, Thanks for the poem. I too get so determined at times that I don't care if it's raining, cold, or whatever I have to get out an exercise.

MikiG, great going on your airwalker :cp:! Don't worry before long you'll be on it and wondering where the time went.

Welcome and nice to meet you Pat and WI-wide.

Reina and Annie how are you doing?

Big:grouphug:
One day at a time

Hello everyone :) Another good day today, thank goodness.

PreciousOne, you're right....I actually stayed on my Air Walker for 40 minutes today!!! That's a major accomplishment for me. Normally I do 3 separate 5 minute sessions. This time I did 20 minutes, took a 2 minute break to stretch out my foot (which I have problems with at times) and got back on for 20 minutes more. I think it was easier because I'm so pumped up with excitement from losing lbs and inches this week which I havent done in ages. I put on some mushy, romantic stuff ( AirSupply, Barry Manilow, and Lionel Richie..ya'll dont laugh:p lol) kept my eyes closed and dreamed away. Seemed like no time before I was finished.

Cyan, I'm using Fitday.com to log everything as you know. But what do you do when you eat out or have something you have no idea what all the ingredients are? For example, today at lunch, I had a big bowl of my sister's homemade soup. I doubt even SHE could tell me what all was in it. So I dont know how to log it. There have been a few times I've had something that I know the total calories per serving but maybe not the breakdown and it wont let me customize without all those details. Also, sometimes the food I"m looking for in there will have "NFS" out beside it. What does that mean??? So far, anything I dont know for sure, I"m just "guestimating" lol I dont like doing that tho.

How is everyone else doing today?? Great I hope. The weekend is quickly passing unfortunately but today was another beautiful day out. :flow1:

Working late tomorrow plus son's basketball game so not sure I'll be able to check in, but I wish you all an unusually productive and cheery Monday. ( personally I hate them:lol: )

Cant wait to get back here. (((((((((Hugs to everyone)))))))))))))

MIKI

PS...WIDE!!! So glad you're back!!! I emailed you a few days ago to say I missed you but it came back:( I later realized I had typed in the addy wrong. Sorry. Dont worry about having a bad week or two...I had 100s of those so I know you can get back in there and get on track!! Just dont give up!!:nono: I'm here for you anytime. Believe me, I know exactly how you feel. Together we can accomplish anything tho. Remember that ok?? :cp:

Hello All,

So great to read your everyone's postings today. Annie and Reina-Mia are you there??? :sp:

Cyan, you are the best at kicking us all in the butt when we need it, but I think that one bad day is not the end of the world. It sounds like you also incorporated exercise into your day naturally. You said that you planned to get right back on track and we will hold you to it!! If not there will be a lot of :nono: from us! :soap: :D

MikiG--40 minutes of exercise is fantastic!!:strong: Keep up the great work :cp:

Next to Fitday, I have also found a great website called: www.foodcount.com --the find a food section is free and maps out averages in calories etc. for foods entered. Not everything is there but it is pretty good.

I didn't really exercise today other than a brisk housecleaning and laundry session--but I had a good eating day with a tray of veggie sushi for dinner and lots of water. Yesterday was a vigorous exercise day and I managed 6 days last week without counting today so I think I'll be okay without the one day. Feel a little more sluggish though.

My boyfriend and I are making a lot of our Christmas gifts this year. We are sewing quite a few things--he can sew!! I help plan out and cut patterns etc. and buy fabric and supplies and he is sewing it. We make a great team and are making some really neat gifts. The fabric for all of our gifts cost only 30.00 and the patterns are designed by us (nothing complicated), so I think it will be a fun Christmas. That and cleaning has been keeping me busy all day today. I also wrapped the stuff that we made so far because I hate rushing in December--I guess the snow got me in the mood!!

I am going out with some friends tomorrow night for dinner after work and am determined to order a chicken salad with lowfat dressing. Restaraunts can be challenging and this one is a roadhouse type place which is even harder but I will do my best.

I have to incorporate a long walk into my lunch hour tomorrow because I may get home too late to get to the pool. But I will head there if I get time! Looking forward to the girls night out!!!

Talk to you all soon!!

Cjunk

Cjunk, thanks for the new site info! I"ll definitely check it out. Sounds like you had a really fun day working on Christmas stuff. I have got to get myself in the mood soon too. Too bad I am not creative like you. I cant even sew on a button. lol I have a friend who hems pants for me when needed. And I ALWAYS wait til the last minute to wrap.
Well, hope you have a great upcoming week! Bye for now...MIKI

Hi again :wave:
Just got in from work and decided to pop in before bed.

Congrats again Miki. Keep it up. Fitday is great I've been using it for the past two months. Whenever I don't know exactly how many calories something has I try to find the closest thing to it and then add an extra amount to be on the safe side or if I know what's in it I find each individual thing.

Cjunk seems like you and your boyfriend had a great time. I was going to make bath baskets but got lazy and decided not to. I'm going to give the site you mentioned a try.

Talk to you all later this morning.

This weekend calorie wise was not so hot...I chose better foods on Sunday but I was still over my usual 1500 cals and acutally ate 2000 cals....:o On the up side....I exercised like a mad woman...I burned off 500 cals for a distance of 10.5km ...took me 40 minutes of intense pedalling...so I guess when you average out...its back down to 1500 cals.

Today is monday, back to the usual food intake...weekends for me are a little harder...but I'll get the hang of it. This morning, it took be for ever to get to work...had to thrudge through so much snow...when I finally made it to my office, I was in a full sweat...30 minute uphill, snow laden walk....you just gotta love winter storms.

Cjunk thanks for that info about that new site...will take a look
Mikki...that fantasy music exercising is amazing...I'm right there with you on that one...You just dream away...I'm usually this very famous singer...on stage...belting out tunes to a huge adoring audience....its amazing how fast the time flies and how fast you peddle:lol:

So whats on tap for everyone today....does anyone want to come up with a holiday challenge that starts now and finishes in the new year...kinda like a pre-new year resolution? Lets get some ideas on the table.....Should it be a goal oriented challenge, exercise, food? Please lets get a challenge going....I think it may be beneficial to us...keep us accountable so that we dont go willy nilly over the holidays...ok let me know.

Hey Annie, reina_mia, PreciousOne...and all....hope your weekends were good...looking forward to reading your posts. Patty lets us know how your weekend went.

Cyan

Hello, My name is Lisa. I'm new. I've been posting at the 20 Somethings thing and didn't understand that starting a new thread everytime you wanted to say something was wrong, instead of joining a thread....and so anyway, someone kind of griped at me.
Cyan, sent me a message about this thread and it sounded perfect! I've been reading all of the entries and you all sound so motivated. That is exciting. I would love to join you and will definitely be up to a pre-new year resolution.
Let me tell you all a little bit about me. I am 27. I've been married for 6 years and we have a 5 year old daughter and a 3 year old son. I'm going to school now and will begin the nursing program in January. I need to loose about 45 to 50 pounds. I've been going to the gym 4 to 5 times a week to do 20 minute cardio and upper/lower body weights every other day. I always finish up my gym time with a sit in the sauna. That's my reward. I'm trying to stay within my WW points even though I'm not going anymore to the meetings. I started WW in August at 199.5 pounds and now I'm at 186, so I feel I've gotten off to a good start.
I was just telling my hubby at lunch that I would like to lose 10 pounds by Dec 19 and then maintain that weight until New Years.
I can't wait to hear everyone's pre-new year resolution ideas and I definitely can't wait to get some weight loss buddies. Looking forward to getting to know all of you better and I hope we can all be "losers" together!

Lisa

Happy Monday All!

Annie-The eggbeaters are unbelieveable. The southwestern brand is great, I highly recommend them with mini Sara-Lee bagels(2).. That candy bar story was something else!!!

MikiG-I am glad you feel the same way. I just can't believe how supportive this group has been. I love the fact that I can come here and stress out right in front of everyone, and it is ok! Where if I would do that with any member of my family. They would be ready to put me in the funny farm!

LadyRider- I know how hard a restaurant can be on my self esteem. My husband, son and I went to an italian restaurant this weekend,and I just couldn't believe how big the portions are. But guess what,
I told him, that I heard somewhere that places like this is the reason for so much of the population being overweight. The portions that these restaurants give you is unbelieveable..
So what I do now, is ask for a small plate. I then only put on the plate what I need to eat, and ask them to bag the rest. I don't remember who told me this, but it is a fabulous idea. And I didn't go over my calorie intake then, and I don't feel bad when I leave the restaurant.
:flow1: *****This is my way of going out on the weekends and not feeling as if I am depriving myself of the good foods********:flow1:

Cjunk & Cyan, you two are truly an inspiration! keep up the good work! Sorry I got lost for the weekend. I didn't have anytime to think or post. I went back to the dentist, yes, I am crazy for more dental work on Saturday, and I have been in pain since.

Welcome Lisa, WI_wide & Pat. I am sure you are going to love this loop. Everyone here is so supportive and friendly.

Have a great week everyone, and I hope to talk to you again soon.

Hey Ladies...please read this post and give it some thought...I would like to challenge everyone to a pre-new years resolution...the holiday season is upon us and I suspect that we might need an extra incentive to keep us on track.

Lets get some ideas on the table quickly....

I'm suggesting a weigh in or a measure chart...you dont have to post it if you dont feel uncomfortable...this is not the aim here to make you feel uncomfortable but to keep you accountable. The aim of the pre new years resolution would be to either maintain your weight or measurements and loose...If you loose....all the better, but if you maintain...thats good too...what we dont want to do...is ruin our success thus far. So, how does everybody feel about doing this challenge...or if somebody had a better one or something to add, please do...so get back to me with your ideas!

I look forward to hearing your challenge ideas

Cyan

I'm in! When and how do we start?

Hello Everyone!
Welcome WI-wide! :wave: Your three days out of town sound like a nightmare! But it’s over now and I’ll bet you will do much better with this group of winners behind you!
Cjunk. I could just picture the beautiful scenery you went hiking through. Glad to see you have set new goals, that’s the way to keep on track. Mom’s mean well, but they sure can say the right things the wrong way sometimes. Please don’t take it to heart, and don’t think “Forever” you know all you have to do is take it one day at a time. Your boyfriend sounds awesome! He can sew – amazing. :dizzy: It sounds like you’re having a wonderful time and making some great memories as well as Christmas gifts.
Cyan – I smile everytime I write your name because it’s my granddaughter’s name too. She spells hers Cyanne. Glad you liked the poem. Don’t feel bad about falling off the wagon, I did the same thing yesterday. On the other had, it sure sounds like you made up for it in your exercise session! Way to Go! I agree we need a challenge to get us through the holidays. I do a lot of baking during this time and it’s going to be very tempting to over do the eating.
Hey Prescious! Glad you did your morning walk, even if it didn’t make you feel better. How are you doing today? Better, I hope.
MikiG! Congratulations on losing those inches and pounds! And on building your endurance! :bravo: Keep up the good work! Isn’t it exciting! And isn’t it great that we’ve all found our individual way to exercise and eat right and yet we’re all succeeding?
Lisathemommy! Howdy and Welcome! We promise not to gripe at you. :D Sounds like you gotten off to a very good start! And you’re definitely on the right track with going to the gym, plus WW point system is a great way to lose weight. It sounds like you’re going to fit in here just fine!:flow2:
:( My sweet brother-in-law of the past 40 years passed away from cancer yesterday, so I had a rough day and ate junk food all day long. Not good coping skills, but at least I was fully aware and clearly made the decision to eat junk. Now, on the good side, I also made the decision to exercise, so I ran in the morning and rode the bike in the evening. You know, girls, I never would have gotten back on that bike if we didn’t have that first exercise challenge. So I gotta say Thank you! I now ride twice a week in addition to running 5 times a week. More good news! I weighed in to day and I have lost 2lbs and 3 inches! Yea!!! That makes a total of 16 pounds and 15 inches since I started this new life style September 18th. If you remember, I started with 50 lbs to lose and now only have – drum roll please –tada- 34lbs to go!
I really look forward to reading this thread every day, even if I don’t have time to post, and I want to thank you all for being such a supportive and successful group. I feed off your determination and it’s making me strong. :dancer:
reina_mia - thanks for the excellent idea. Very clever and I will try it next time we eat out.
I'm like the Weigh in or Measure Chart Challenge, but because I do this already, I am also open to an additional challenge.

Hello,
No exercise today still feel awful. On a good note I'm so proud of myself went out of town late last night and car broke down on the way back. After 45 mins we finally made it to a service station. I was straved but instead of making a pig of myself with all the tempting junk food I chose a banana.

Count me in on the challenge. Cyan your idea sounds great.

LadyRider, sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. I'll keep you and your family in my prayers.

Hope everyone is having a good day.

:grouphug:

Hello to everyone. Welcome to Pat, WI-Wide, and Lisa :) Glad you've joined us.
Sorry I haven't posted over the weekend. Tried to Sat. evening but for some reason I kept losing my reply when I tried to post it.

Glad to hear everyone is doing great. A big Congrats to Cjunk on your weight loss and those inches. Glad to hear that you got a good report from your doctor pertaining to your health. You're a great inspiration to me, I keep thinking about the measurements of your waist and I am determined to get mine there. I have about 3 to go now. Today was weigh in day, 3 more pounds gone and 1 inch from the waist. I have been steadily losing 3 pounds a week, I hope it keeps up. I want to thank you for all the motivation. You are so focused on exercise, even when you're not feeling up to it. Keep up the good work. Those ten extra pounds you want to lose will be a breeze. You've got the right outlook to make your additional goal. Congrats on reaching your first one.

Cyan, thanks for all the inspiration that keeps me getting on that bike. I no longer have any burning in my legs or arms so I guess it might be time to increase the resistance. I might need another kick in the behind to get me started.

Congrats to Miki and your weight loss. You are going about things in a good way. Moderation is the key to it all.

reina_mia, glad to hear from you. Thanks for the thumbs up on the egg beaters. I thought about buying some when I saw them but I'm a skeptic sometimes. I've been trying to find some other ideas for breakfast menus, I'll give the egg beaters a try. Thanks for your opionion of them. And by all means anytime you feel you need to vent feel free to let it all out to us. We are a very understanding bunch, in fact all of us go through some pretty strange things. If you need support you will find a lot of it here. Keep your chin up, you're doing great.

Precious One, sorry to hear you're not feeling well. You're in my prayers for brighter days ahead. That's awful that you were broke down for all that time. Sometimes life hands us a challenge in ways that we aren't expecting. You did great with your challenge. That banana was good for you, proud of you.

Pat, WI-Wide and Lisa, please feel free to jump in any place. We welcome you with open arms. :grouphug:
WI-wide, glad you followed the trail. :)

Cyan, great idea with the help during the holidays. I'm up for anything pertaining to that. I'm going to need all the help I can get. I feel comfortable posting weights, measurements, exercise sessions, etc. whatever everyone would like is fine with me. I think with all of us helping each other through the holidays we can stay with our goals a lot better. Seems like we have done a great job helping each other so far to stay on track. The holidays will be rough for a lot of us. So count me in on the holiday support. I'm getting pretty close to my goal, and with the holidays coming I feel like I might be hanging on to the edge of a cliff.

Lady Rider, thank you so much for the poem. It was very nice of you to share that with us. We all need to read things like that, sometimes the spirit needs some support as well.
I send my condolences to you and your family in the loss of your brother-in-law. May God Bless all of you and give you comfort during this time. Let us know if we can do anything. We're here for you.

I hope I didn't leave anyone out, there's been a lot of posts. Hard catching up after the weekend. I send a big hug to all of you, keep up the good work. We're going to make it together. :grouphug:
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.

LadyRider my heart felt sympathy for you and your family...I will say a prayer for you. My Kitty's name is Cyan...he's a male abyssinian and he is the love of my life...so affectionate he is...always full of kisses and hugs.

PreciousOne...yikes on the car breaking down...but super wow for picking a banana...what a wise choice...be proud in your accomplishments and for not stuffing your face.

Annie Annie Annie...how great you must feel to see your body changing before your very eyes....I am so inspired by you...you just get it...like Oprah would say...you have found your way to a healthier new you.

Reina_Mia...you are on the right track...finding ways to still enjoy your food is key to a life change...kudos on you.

Ok girls....and that means you too, Lisa, WI_Wide :lol:
Lets take our measurements or weight..whatever works for you...if you feel comfortable...post them..if not..thats ok too...we work my the honor system and the only person you cheat is yourself in the end...ok ...here it is....all measurements should be up by this saturday nov 23....a week before thanksgiving for our american friends....us canucks already had ours....and we will check back on jan 2, the day after the new years day. The challenge is not to gain weight....to maintain is very good and to lose weight is the top honors. How about exchanging pictures of us taken during the holidays....I would like very much to put faces to all you lovely ladies.

So by nov 23, the pre-new years resolutions specs should be noted. If you are measuring...chest, waist, upper thigh, calf and upper arm...if You weigh yourself ...I think you can handle this one :lol:

Hey Cjunk looking forward to hearing how your night went tonight.

Until then

Cyan

Ok, Cyan....I'm in too. Do we post them here?? Can't believe I"m gonna do it since I'm bigger( wayyy bigger) than all of you, and some of you combined. lol :o BUT I'm working on it, and as big as I am I'm still 5 lbs smaller than I was last week:D Maybe the horror of doing this will MAKE me keep up so in January I can be proud of posting a lot less :smug:

I"d love to see pics of everyone. Kinda strange you mentioned it tonite because I had just thought this morning that I was going to bring that up. I even took a "before" one of me this morning. Decided I wanted a recent one to compare with another one in a few months. Sometimes in pictures we see our "real" selves more clearly. It's funny how in your mind sometimes you dont look as bad as you really do lol.

Ohhh, goodness, where are my manners?? WELCOME LISA!!:balloons: Great having you join us!!!

Sorry I cant post more tonite but just got home from the ballgame and need to get off here and get some things taken care of before bedtime. Take care everyone! :grouphug:

PS....Really sorry to hear about your bro-in-law, LadyRider. You and your family will be in my thoughts and prayers. Somehow I missed that post when I read thru the first time.

and Precious One...hope you get to feeling better SOON:)

Hello everyone,

LadyRider, my thoughts go out to you in this time. I am sorry to hear about your brother in-law. We are all here to support you through challenges you may meet.

Cyan, here is my account from last night's outing. A group of friends from my old work went out to the restaraunt and it turns out that we showed up on the wrong night--we had no idea that tonight there is a Fireman's Calendar signing!! Darn. It was a lot of fun. We laughed a lot and exchanged a lot of stories. All of the girls knew my friend's mom who passed away so we talked about those memories as well.

Just before the end of the dinner one of the girls mentioned aside that another of my old co-worker's father had passed away yesterday. They had no idea that I had been on this co-worker's volleyball team for a year and that his dad came out to every game we played and was an avid cheerleader and a wonderfully chatty man who I had spent time knowing. It was very sudden and sad news yet again. Needless to say when I got home I looked up the funeral information on the newspaper web site and there is a visitation tonight at the same funeral home as the one I just went to recently. So the evening ended on a sombre note.

I made myself a healthy lunch yesterday, taken a nice walk at lunch and had a grilled veggie and feta (no mozzerella) pizza at the restarant and only had 2 pieces and brought the rest home for lunch and for my boyfriend to snack on. It wasn't too greasy and overall I think I did fine calorie wise because it was also a thin crust one. I was going to have a chicken salad but the chicken was the breaded deep fried kind. In fact, all of their salads had lots of deep fried stuff.

I am coming down with a cold and overall my body is feeling very low energy. I have a feeling that the next day or so may be walking days or yoga relaxation days as opposed to pool days. Oh well, they just started a Saturday and Sunday swim time slots, so I can make up for it at the tail end of the week!!

I am up for the challenge between now and Christmas. It will definitely be hard because I have 4 Christmas parties booked so far---all potluck!! (one at my current work, one at my old work, and two run by friends). Any one got any good low-fat potluck recipes???? The lists are already circulating.

I will definitely need to re-review strategies before these 4 nights!!! Some are coming up soon as they are in early December!!

My boyfriend's family has a Sushi Christmas Eve gathering and so that is a guaranteed healthy eating night--yum!!! My mom cooks Turkey on Christmas day but she also makes me crustless pumpkin pie because she knows that I don't like the taste of pie crust and usually end up throwing it away anyway. I have no idea how people can eat that stuff!! For me the tough part is the stuffing!!

So I guess I am on for the challenge with plans for strategizing mapped out with help from the group?? My goal will be to maintain as I think my body is in that phase right now, but if I lose that would be fantastic!

Sorry I didn't get a chance to reply individually to each threads--there were so many!! Keep up the great work team and we can start our challenges soon.

Cjunk

Last night, I exercised for 50 minutes on the bike for a distance of 14.6km at an average speed of 17.5km...I burned 530cals. It was tough getting started but once again, after a few minutes of pedalling...and listening to good music...I get into it...I must agree...there are days that are sure tough...but my demon seems to be food...I always have a tougher time staying within my 1500 cal range....and my fat grams are too high...I need to get them down to 50 grams per day and often its higher even if I am at 1500 cals. So I exercise for a longe period to balance out my cal consumption.

Cjunk...were there lots of cute single fireman? Hmmm? send them over to Montreal...:lol:

Hey Mikki...dont worry about the temporary size that you are now...you are slowly shrinking...the results are happening and that is the key...the focus of this journey you are on. You show a lot of courage to air your insecurities and I admire you for that. This tells me that you are dealing with your goals head on...pat yourself on the back.

I am excited that we all agree on this pre new years resolution...We need the extra motivation to keep us on track...we will be surrounded by lots of tempting foods, lots of family that are not on health journeys...who will want you to try their special desert or food dish...that is why we should prepare for these upcoming challenges and think them through before it happens.

For instance, if I have a special dinner to go to that evening...I will have a low fat, low cal breakfast and lunch inorder to have more cals for dinner available. I will definitely be exercising that day....before the dinner. These are some strategies I will be using to help maintain or possibly lose some weight during the holidays. I wont be leaving it to faith....Has anyone given it some thought as to what you will be doing in social situations? What are your plans of action? Also, I suggest posting regularly here and to discuss your worries or to come in for extra support. Like if the cheesecake is talking to you....or if that extra turkey leg has ambled over to your plate....think of all your health nut buddies here that are supporting your every wise choices!

I know for me it is going to be very tough to stay within my 1500 cals....but my challenge is to do exactly that...I will do it...this is the promise I make to myself and you are my witnesses.

Talk to you later

Cyan

Good morning all. I hope everyone had a great day.
Boy did I have a hard night, On my way home from work, I went to pick up my food for the week, and I need a McDonalds cheesburger!:devil: I yelled at myself the whole way home, people looking in my car, must have thougth I was nuts. Well, I didn't stop at McDonalds, I went straight home and had my healthy dinner. Around 8pm, I just got some horrible cravings for cake, I don't know why, but it was killing me..
Fruit didn't look appealing to me or anything healthy.
I decided to make me 8 oz of chocolate milk. And that took it away.
Then, at 11:00 at night, it hit me again, I was hungry and crabby and I needed to eat. I just didn't know what it was, but it was fierce...So I took a long hot shower instead of eating and I went straight to bed. :?:

Cyan - I really like this challenge :high: I don't want to go into the New Year thinking that I wasted 2 months working my butt off to lose weight, to gain the weight after the holidays. I would like to maintain where I am at starting weight - 2 days before Thanksgiving. If I lose, Haleluya. If I don't and stay the same, I reached another goal. Good Idea!

LadyRider, I am so sorry to hear about your brother-in-law. I will pray for him, and for you, so you keep the strength to stay focused in such hard times. Congrats on the weightloss... With our goals being the same, I just can't wait to say the same thing you are, 34 lbs to go... That sounds great. Keep up the good work.
PreciousOne, Congrats on passing up such a tempting moment to indulge in some junk food...Me, I would have easily chosen the chocolate bar still...Yes, I am still having my bad moments where I do want to indulge in junk, but I do have to say that I am getting better.
Hope you feel good soon....
DeterminedAnnie, Another good idea, is to spice up your low-fat cream cheese spread and add some pineapples or strawberries to it. and spread that on your wheat toast or bagels..
Posting has been kind of tough for me, especially on the weekends, and there are so many great ones, it is hard to keep up when you are out on the weekends. I lost a couple of posts before, now I type it on a blank word doc as I read through the posts, then when i am ready to reply I just copy over, this way if you lose it, you still have a copy to retry with.
Have a great day!
MikiG, Congrats on the 5lbs loss :bravo:. That is a great accomplishment....I couldn't even think about writing my measurements down before I met this group. So I am going to take the leap!
Cjunk-Wow, I am so sorry to hear you had such a somber evening. Kudos on keeping your healthy eating habits through all this. Good luck on those PotLucks. I am also trying to figure out how to handle these to maintain the weight. I will post some lowfat recipes during the week for everyone.
Keep up the good work everyone. Have a blessed day
:grouphug: :balloons:

Hello everyone and good morning. It's 10:45 am here in Kansas and I've been to the gym where I did 12 minutes of cardio and then did the Body Defined Class which was awesome. I'm so sore already. Since I knew my cardio time was going to be cut short so I could make the class, I really upped the impact and went .85 miles, which for me is really good. I've come home and showered and now I'm ready to face my day and study study study.

Now, I need some advice. On Tuesday's and Thursday's I leave at 4:25 pm ( as soon as hubby gets home from work) to go to my class that starts at 5pm and is 30 minutes away from my house. I don't get out of class until 8:30 and I get home about 9pm. What on earth am I supposed to do for dinner on these days? For the first hour and a half of class we can eat in class, and then we get about a 10 minute break. Then we're in the lab where no food or drink are allowed. I've got to stop going to the bookstore and getting a candy bar and a pop and stuffing it into my mouth before lab. Help!

I'm really enjoying reading everyones' posts and it really is motivating. You are all so great! I'm really excited about our Holiday Challenge. I need to sit down and look at my calander and have a mental plan of how I will deal with all the food at all the fun things I get to go to. I have a hard time finding more joy in fun conversation and visiting then I do in the food. I need to reverse that. Can you imagine being at a holiday party and not really noticing all the food because you're having so much fun talking with your friends or family or getting to know a new person? Hmmmmm......

One more thing, I wanted to tell you about some software that you can download online. It's called Diet Power. I don't know if anyone of you have heard of it. It programs a daily calorie intake plan for you after you tell it how much you weigh, how much you WANT to weigh and when you want to weigh that much. Then you enter in what you eat and most of it is in their little system or if it's not you enter it in and will tell you all about everything. You can check and see how much vitamins your getting and so forth. It's not free forever, but I think it gives you a 30 day free trial and then just stops working if you don't buy it. I have found it helpful in the past.

That's all for now. I hope you are all having a great day!
Lisa

Good afternoon Ladies. Hope everyone is having a good day.

Cyan, believe me my body is not changing before my eyes. Every morning when I get up the first thing I do is look and see if by chance during the night my roly poly tummy has disappeared :lol: I'm losing in the waist department but I've still got lots of work to do on that tummy roll going on below the navel. I'm going to try and lose atleast another 10 pounds or so before I get down and dirty with the tummy exercises.
Miki, you and I have been the ones all along alittle shy about posting measurements, etc. So together we will do this. Only way to reach our goals is to be honest with ourselves. I know what you mean about pictures. I started back on Sept. 15th, thought I was doing great. Clothes started fitting a lot better by mid Oct. So by mid Oct. we had a dinner and party here celebrating a birthday in the family. I got the pictures developed a couple of weeks ago. Ugh! I remember that night well, everyone was saying how good I looked. Well if I looked good that night I would hate to see what I looked like before that. I told my husband why was everyone saying I looked good, look at my stomach in these pictures. So this weekend I'm going to put those same clothes on and have my son take a new picture so I can see if there is a difference now. Lord I hope so. It's been a month since those pictures were taken so I'll see if there's any changes now. Stay strong Miki, it takes time to see changes in our body. I feel that all of us here are very understanding of each other. If we didn't have problems with our bodies we wouldn't be here. That's the bottom line. If we had perfect bodies, perfect weight, etc. we wouldn't be here. And I don't know about the rest of you but I think the majority of us are emotional eaters. When we reach our goals, we will need to be strong, motivated and try to maintain our desired weight. This isn't an easy process.
I knew it wouldn't be when I started out. I knew I loved food too much to think that this would be easy. All of you have helped me in so many ways.

Cjunk, I have already set in motion my plans for the holidays. Hopefully I can stick with it. The two big dinners, (Thanksgiving and Christmas) will be taking place at my home. In that respect I will have an easier time of it. But there are a lot of parties that we will be attending. I love those buffets that are set up. That's when my plans will come into play. I plan on eating during the day as I usually do, I'm not cutting back on any meals to contemplate what I might be eating that night for dinner. I feel if I do that I will be starving when I arrive for the festivities. So far during my new eating habits I haven't allowed myself to become hungry. I have lots of small meals plus some healthy snacks in between. My downfall would be if I'm hungry, I know I would eat everything in sight. I plan on eating a small meal before I leave for the parties. Once I'm there I will search out the veggie trays, fruit trays, etc. I've also been asked to bring a few appetizers to some of the parties. So I know already what I will be taking, healthy ones that I can enjoy. I know of a real good shrimp dip, very low in calories that I will be able to take and enjoy that night. I have been working on appetizers for the last month in preparation for the holidays this year. I have always offered lots of appetizers and desserts at the events held at my home. This year I'll do the same, but have learned ways to fix them that is healthy and tasty to everyone. Learning healthier eating habits doesn't mean that we have to give up a lot of the foods we love. But learning to prepare them healthier is the key. I know there are going to be times that I will want to induldge in some of the foods I know that I shouldn't. I'm keeping an open mind about this, if that does occur I will keep it in moderation. A taste of this, a taste of that won't kill me or sabotage my diet. But sitting down and eating a whole cheesecake is not something I should do. I baked some loaf cakes the other day. I bake a lot of things and freeze them for the holidays. I did really good in not eating anything. My husband and my son had several pieces of an apple crumb loaf cake I made. I took a bite, didn't seem to care to sit down and pig out. That's the hard part to me, is baking and cooking and smelling the foods. I've learned a little secret that tends to help me. I make sure I sit down and eat a bowl of cereal when I'm baking. It fills me up and I don't seem to want to eat the baked goods when they come out of the oven. I know you all are probably thinking well why doesn't she just have a piece of whatever she's baking. It's not that simple, I would have to have a piece of everything. So far I'm doing good, haven't binged on anything I've baked so far. But when Thanksgiving Day comes, and especially Christmas Eve I'll see how I do. Part of my plans is to have alternatives for me to eat. When everyone else is sitting there eating dessert I don't want to be sitting there eating on carrot sticks. I would start screaming or something, I know I would. So I've made desserts that I can also enjoy. The holidays are coming, it's a time for family and friends. My goal is to stay relaxed, if I should happen to grab a piece of cheesecake and crawl under the table with it, I will deal with that later. I'm afraid that I will get so bent out of shape with trying to stay with my healthy diet through the holidays that I will ruin the holidays. I don't want to feel guilty about anything I eat during that time. But at the same time I want to stay on track. So hopefully I can keep in mind the key word, Moderation.

Cjunk, I don't know what type of potluck events you are attending. If you are to take a main dish I have some suggestions for that. Vegetables or side dishes I also have some ideas for you on that. Just do like me, think Moderation whatever is served there.

Lisa, I see the dilema you're in. I used to do the same thing, grab for the fastest things. And in every case it will always be those foods served that contain high fat and high calories. You might try eating a small meal before you leave. And then that night when you come in have a salad that you prepared earlier that day. You can also take numerous things along with you. Ex: turkey on low calorie wheat bread, friut cups, veggies cut up and packed in ziplock bags, a couple of pieces of fruit, anything with fiber, fills you up. Takes longer for the stomach to digest those things, therefore you don't get hungry as fast. That's why I eat cereals, oatmeal. If there is a microwave where you are you could always take a prepared frozen dinner with you. Also a meal you have prepared the night before or during the day taken on a disposable plate or one that you take back home. Also a big piece of advice offered in the kindest way, if at all possible try to get the pop or soft drinks out of your daily eating habits. WATER is the way to go. I think everyone here will vouch for that. The first thing I did was give up soft drinks. Most of us here take water with us everywhere we go. I've even learned to drink it room temperature. Didn't think I would ever be able to, but I'm doing it and don't mind a bit.
I've heard about that also, I'm going to give it a try this year. Hope people won't mind too much if I munch on a carrot while I talk with them :lol:
Thanks for the info about the software. It sounds like you're on the right track. You're already into the exercising, that's a big step and it sounds like you're doing great with that.
Others here will have some great tips for you about you're not being able to eat dinner at home. Wish I could help you more with that. Keep up the good work, glad you joined us.

reina_mia, thanks for the tips on the fruit. I hadn't thought about doing that. I usually only have thoughts of the creme cheese :s:
You did great on passing up McDonalds. But you know if that craving gets really, really bad might not be too bad if you went and had a small cheeseburger. Sometimes we can push ourselves to the limit and then we usually end up binging on something else. I think that's why my son brought me the potatoe chips that night. I think he knew I was about to blow a fuse. Alittle moderation goes a long way. You might be surprised at how having that small cheeseburger changes your outlook about your diet. That handful of chips helped me greatly. I haven't had a craving for them since. I think it's the old scenario of wanting what you think you can't have. You hang in there, you're doing great. And you know what, you handled those cravings in a good way. I've always heard that you should wait a few minutes to really see if you want the food you're craving. So far after waiting for a few minutes my cravings usually go away. A bowl of cereal works wonders. ;)

Cyan, the picture idea is a good one. Me and my roly poly tummy all decked out for the holidays. I'm up for it if everyone else is. Would you like us to hold up a sign with the year on it in the picture? I'll go for that, I can hold the sign in front of my tummy!:lol:

Stay Confident Ladies, Stay Motivated!
:grouphug:

Hi ya’ll!! J

Well, as far as calories, today hasn’t been bad, but as for exercise, I haven’t done one thing yet. Got too full tonite and didn’t have the energy. Hopefully I can muster up enough to do a little tho before bedtime.

Cjunk….Wow, you’ve really had some tough times lately, but seems that even through it all, you’re making good food choices. Sorry to hear you’re not feeling well. I find it next to impossible to exercise when I feel that way. I’m sure even just the walking would be more than I would do so I think you’re still doing great.

Cyan…So far I’m not having too much problem staying within my calories but you are kicking my butt with all the exercise you do!! LOL I need to get as motivated as you are with that. I have found that I do much better if I get mine done in the morning BEFORE work. I just don’t seem to have the energy once I get home, cook, help with homework, and everything else that seems to always need done around here. That’s the mistake I made today. I had to be at work earlier so I didn’t get it done. I am NOT a morning person, and I try to get every minute of sleep I can in the mornings lol. Because of that, tho, I ended up rushing around just to get to work.

I want to thank ALL of you for all the supporting comments and compliments you give to me so much of the time. Any time I am negative about myself at all, one or all of you come right back with something encouraging to cheer me up. That’s what I love about coming here. I just hope I can make ya’ll feel as good as you make me feel.

Reina_Mia…..Congrats on passing by McDonalds and not stopping!! That shows definite will power. I think the chocolate milk was a good idea too. Satisfying but not like getting a slice of cake knowing there’s still plenty to cut into. Too easy to go back for more of things like cookies, cakes, etc. Drinking a glass of milk tho seems different. Once you hit the bottom, you’re finished. I do agree with Annie too, tho, about not totally depriving yourself of things you really love. Doing that too much sometimes makes you eventually just get what you want anyway but MORE than you would have if you had eaten it in the first place. I think moderation really is the key. One thing I realized tonite….altho I stayed well within my calorie limit, I ate too much!! I was sooo full tonite. I later thought, “You know, this is just as bad as eating too many calories. It’s ridiculous to eat so much I feel bad even if it is low in calories.” This is the first time in 2 weeks I have eaten past the natural full feeling and gone into the miserable feeling. I feel YUCKKKK now too.

Lisa, have you ever checked out Fitday.com?? It sounds similar to the one you talked about in your post, it is also free, and there is nothing to download. I think Cyan ( or maybe Cjunk) told me about it, and I have been using it ever since. It has really helped me keep up with everything.

Annie…you have the same problem I do. That part BENEATH my waist is the WORST part! Well, that and the part directly above also. I always say mine has a lot of to do with 2 C-Sections, but that’s just my excuse. LOL You seem to have it all planned out for the holidays. I need to do that too, to think it all out beforehand.

LadyRider…missed “seeing” you here tonite! Hope things are ok with you.

Precious One…I hope not seeing you here either doesn’t mean you are still feeling bad. L If you are, hope you’ll be LOTS better by tomorrow so you can join us again. Not the same when we arent all here.

Well folks, if I’m going to fit in a little exercise, I better get myself off this computer, and get on with it. Take care all!!

Good morning ladies. How are we all doing this morning? I am doing okay. Last night was my Anatomy and Physiology class and I had a lecture exam. I got a B, which is okay. This class is sooooooo hard. I have a Lab Test tomorrow night, but I've decided I cannot study for that anymore than I already have. Besides, If I have to look at one more dead, cut open cat, or a plastic penis model, I'm going to go crazy!!!
Thanks Annie for the advice. I took a Peanut Butter and Jelly Sandwich with me to class (I know, not very healthy) and a glass of milk and I ate that on the way. I also took a big glass of water and drank that during class. I didn't go and get a candybar, infact I didnt' eat anything else all night.

MikiG, I think I will take a look at Fitday....sounds cool. Thanks!

Today is Wednesday, and my son is begging to go to the gym. He loves playing in the nursery. I have a Site Counsil meeting at my daughters school at 12:20 and I really need to clean this house! I also was going to attempt to donate plasma this afternoon. We'll see.

I hope everyone has a great day! I am going to try really hard to eat perfect today!

Lisa:dizzy:

Hello Ladies...last night I had a steak dinner...it was lean meat about 4oz and green beans...but it didnt sit well with me. When I started to digest the food, I started getting intermiten sharp pains in my stomach...nausea...and a general unease....But I still mananged to exercise for 25 minutes, for a distance of 7.6km and burning 260 cals. This morning, I still feel sick...my stomach still hurts and I dont really feel well. :(

So I will check back later if I am feeling well. Ladies stay strong and dont lose focus of all of your accomplishments

later
Cyan

Good Morning all!
I hope you are all having a great day. I got through another day without any massive cravings and I didn't splurge on anything either.

I haven't been exercising this week. I have been so tired lately:tired:, I just feel that I constantly have to get up and do something. I just can't seem to stay awake. We have been on the go, and I guess that is what contributes to me not really sticking to my weekends... How do you all get past that? My husband and I are always out, and I get tired of having to eat out on the weekends, I would like to make a nice meal at home.

I told my husband about our challenge last night, and guess what he said. "If you want I can take your measurements, so you don't lie to yourself" Am I at the point still where I would lie to myself:?: :?:
I guess I have done that so much in the past, I never even noticed. But I said ok, I could use the support.

Lisa, Congrats on not grabbing for the candybars. A PB&J sandwich better than a chocolate bar. Another good thing, would be the PB & Banana. Sounds like a kid thing, but at least you get another piece of fruit, and not all the sugar from the jelly.
And I must say, I think you should talk more about the cut-open cat. You totally made me lose my apetite this morning:lol: . I don't think I would want to eat after class if I had to work with that. :dizzy:
Another good thing is the Campbells, Soup on the Go bottles, you warm up in the micro and drink right out of their plastic container. Here is the site for all of you: http://www.soupathand.com/?cpovisq=gFtlT%2BqP1znmE0IOffkz4mZhoCZS%2Fqxn

MikiG, I can totally relate to overeating. I realized now, how much of a horrible feeling that is. I am miserable because of it. I tend to overeat rice when it is available. Then I am so tired and full that I can't breathe. I reach for a bottle of water and chugalug, to try and rid myself of that feeling. The water does help. I will admit, that one time, I was so disgusted and sick with myself, that I did have to rid myself of that food, and it freaked me out so much, now I am very cautious of listening to my body tell me when it has had enough.

Annie, crawling under the table with the cheesecake is priceless. That is so me, and I really do want to enjoy the holidays this year, so I will not be thinking about losing, only maintaining...I especially look forward to making my grandma's recipe of homemade tamales on Christmas, I can never, ever, give that up. I have been carrying on her tradition since she past 7 years ago. So that and that only will be my weakness. But I will make sure, I work every bit of maza(cornmeal) off right after that.
SO PLEASSSSSSSSSE remind me of the work MODERATION.

Hope everyone is doing okay, hope to hear from you all soon,
Have a blessed day.
:grouphug:

Where does everyone get the cute little clip art in their messages?????

Also, that is an AWESOME idea of the soup, Reina_Mia!!!! Tomorrow is shopping day and I will look for some.

later!
Lisa

Lisa,
The clipart is located to the left of the message box when replying to a message. It is titled Smiles, and inside the box there is a "Get more" Button to click on.

I hope that helps. Hey, how do you get that journal feature under your name. I would love to be able to journal at one site also, I visit 3 different sites.

Have a great one...
:wave:

Hey, Reina_Mia, thanks for the info on the clip art.
If you go to the top of the page there should be a link for Member Journals. Go there and click on "my journal". From there, you should be able to add entries and stuff. Then, you would probably have the Journal think under your name. You can choose if you want your entry to be public or private. Mine are all public. ;) :wave:

See ya later!
Lisa:moo:

Hey all,
Have any of you ever heard of Equal's Perfect Pleasures Candies?
They are little hard candies, that are really good. They come in 4 flavors
Mint
Chocolate :cb:
Creamy Carmel:dance:
& Fruit
They range from 45-50 calories for 5 of them, and can easily take way the craving of chocolate. As you all know, I crave chocolate cake often....

I hope you find this as exciting as I did. If not, I must be a loon:lol:
Hope to talk to you all later,

Oh, I almost forgot, here is the website
http://www.equal.com/SimplyLites/

Lady Rider, our thoughts and prayers are with you. Looking forward to your return to the board. Stay Strong. :grouphug:

Cyan and Cjunk, sending thoughts your way, hope you both feel better soon. Get Well Wishes to you both. :balloons:

Precious One, hope you're doing ok, come back and post soon. WI-wide, hope to see you posting soon. :)

Miki, sounds like you have a full load going, I applaud you for being able to keep things running smoothly. You seem to stay very active, you are probably burning a lot more calories than you think you are with all the things you do in a day. Sometimes there's not enough time in a day to get in "scheduled" exercise. Being active burns calories also, housework, shopping, walking back and forth through the house, or keeping up with children. Sounds like you are burning calories more so than I am. Try to take some time for yourself. I know that seems impossible sometimes, but you deserve a little time for yourself.
It appears that you and I both have that same problem area. I've been reading up on exercises and things to do for that area. But I'm going to get rid of alittle more of this fat before I start on that. Some of those exercises I've read about make me want to bury my head in the sand. I'm not looking forward to doing those, but it's all part of it.

reina_mia, you and I must have been having the same thoughts lately. I was in the grocery store late this afternoon, for some reason I was looking through the hot chocolate section. Every box I picked up seemed to come in around 170 calories a serving. But then I spotted one that was Fat Free with Calcium, it is 25 calories a serving. I struck gold! :) It doesn't have the mini marshmellows in it but they melt right away anyway. :lol: So atleast I found something for a beverage that is nice and warm during the cold months. It will be a treat, not an all day type drink. I've been only drinking water all day, so atleast now that I've found this I can treat myself once a day with a nice hot cup of cocoa when it's cold outside. I tried it when I got home, it's really good. Very chocolatey tasting. Oh yea I guess the name of it would be helpful to those of you who would like to try it. It's made by Nestle, Fat Free Hot Cocoa Mix With Calcium. It's delicious.
Thanks for the tips about the candy. Where do you find that at? Candy aisle, or where the sugar free items are sold? I know that Equal is a sugar substitute. Just curious where you found it at.

Lisa, great going on the food choices. It takes a while to change eating habits. You're on the right track. You're welcome, anytime you need help or support any of us will be glad to offer to help. Great group of Ladies here.

Hope everyone has a great day tomorrow. Hope Lady and WI-wide and Precious One joins us soon. Get well Cjunk and Cyan, miss you Ladies.

Stay Confident, Stay Strong.
:grouphug:

Bad as I hate it, I only have about 2 minutes to post tonite. I ate too much today but did extra on my Air Walker. ( 60 minutes) Burned around 500 calories I think. ( Calories by the way were like 2100 :( )

Cant address individual posts because short on time but all of you who havent been feeling well, I really hope you're lots better SOON!!

Everyone keep up the good work! And remember when you mess up ( like I did today) dont do the way I used to do and say"Ohwell, messed up..may as well forget it and eat" I did that sooo many times in the past. Just forgive yourself and get back on track:)

Ya'll have a great Thursday!!

MIKI

Thanks for all the well wishes Annie. I am on the mend and my tummy is starting to feel normal again...I will head back to work this afternoon. I got a stomach virus...Tuesday evening after eating, I started to get stomach cramps and I thought I had eaten to much steak...although I had 4oz...which is not alot but I am not a big meat eater...So I chalked it up to that. Well during the night, my cramps continued and by morning I wasnt feeling any better. I had a low grade fever and slept most of yesterday away. I consumed about 300 cals coming from one meal which was bread with peanut butter and water. And no I did not exercise:lol:

So today, I will eat more bread and peanut butter and perhaps a banana so as not to irritate my stomach any further.

Mikki 60 minutes on the glider WOWOWOWOWOWOOHOO so 2100 minus 500 is 1600 calories..I'd say you did pretty good!;)

Annie how have you been doing with cal consumption and exercising?

Hey Cjunk, how are you feeling?

Well girls dont forget to post your measurements or weight this coming nov 23 rd here on this thread....Together we will make it through the holidays and not sabotage our efforts and successes thus far.

Cyan

:wave: Hi All, Happy Thursday!
I just got back from my run and wanted to post before I head out to meet a friend for a lite lunch. I’m telling ya, being semi – retired is tough. :joker:
Lisa– I am also a nurse, and hearing about your studies brings back lots of memories. A&P is tough, but I found it fascinating. On the other hand, we didn’t get to practice on dead cats or a plastic Penis! :o Seriously, a big congrats on getting a B on lecture exam, that’s no easy feat. You had asked for suggestions on something to eat during class. Have you tried the soy energy bars? Cliff and Luna make some that are really healthy and filling. That with a personal sized bottle of chocolate soy milk (or regular milk) is my choice when I’m running around and don’t have time to eat. You can buy them in any grocery store. Just don’t get regular granola bars, they’re high in calories and fat and have no nutritional value. BTW, that peanut butter and jelly sandwich wasn’t a bad choice. Just go easy on the jelly, or like Annie suggested, try substituting a banana for the jelly.

Cyan – So glad you're feeling better. I was afraid you had gotten a hold of a bad piece of meat. You take care of yourself and don't over do it.

Miki, you’re doing great! 60 minutes! WOW! Exercising ia a great way to balance when you over eat. Keep up the good work!:dancer:

I really like the idea of pictures to go with the names. We could do "before and after", or we could just post face shots. What do you all think?
Another good hot drink for those cold evenings: Alpine sugar free Spiced Cider. Or Alpine Original Spiced Cider (80cal per cup) It comes in a box like the hot chocolate. It’s usually found with the hot chocolate, but one of my stores keeps it in the health food section. Also, Lipton makes a Diet Raspberry Ice Tea Mix for cold tea, but it’s excellent hot – and only 5 calories per serving.
Gotta Run – You all have a great day!

:grouphug:
Lady:)

Annie,
Thanks for the hot cocoa idea;). I can't wait to go buy it. I am having a very hard time giving up coffee in the morning.
Hear this though, I used to put in 6-7 sugars and 1/4 of milk to it. Now I use 2 packets of extra and I am looking for a creamer substitute that is tastie. I tried silk, and YUK!

The Extra candies, I first tried at my dentist this weekend, and I like them so much I checked it out on the web and on the web, it says you can purchase them at any Walmart. I would think it would be by the candie section still. They come in a box.

MikiG - I hope you are having a better day today :flow2:. You have a great mindset, keep up the good work, and burning 500 calories was great. Don't forget that brings your total calorie intake down to around 1600. That is awesome. Can't wait to get there.

Cyan - I really hope you are felling better. Take it easy the next couple of days, I am sure you are very weak from the low calorie intake. Take care of yourself...

Cjunk, hope to see you posting soon.

I am counting down the days to posting my measurements on the site...:lol:
I hope everyone has a blessed day.
:wave: :wave:

Hey there girls. I don't have alot of time because I have to run have lunch with hubby and then go grocery shopping. I just wanted to say a couple of things. I tried on a pair of jeans today that are usually pretty tight and they came on loose!!!! And then, when I put on my shirt, which has also been a little tight...I noticed I didn't have to pull it over my big tummy. It just slid down! That feels so great!! So even though my weight has stayed at the exact same spot for 2 weeks, I am seeing a difference and that is AWESOME!!!

Also, I'm all for putting my picture on here to match my face, but how would I go about doing that? I have a dig cam and a scanner...but how would I put it at this sight??? Just wondering!

You all are so encouraging! Thank you so much. I'm so glad I found this website! I'm going grocery shopping today for HEALTHY food! BYE:wave:

Lisa

Lisa,:bravo:
Way to go! :cb: I can 't wait for my clothes to show that I am really losing the inches. Keep up the good work and have a great day.

:balloons:

Hi Cyan :) glad to hear that you are feeling some better. I thought maybe you had some food posioning, I know you must have felt horrible. Those stomach viruses are awful. Have you tried the BRAT foods? Banana, rice, applesauce, toast(dry). The last time anyone in my family had a stomach virus that's what we started off with. Very easy on the stomach and digestive track. I hope you start feeling lots better very soon. Nope, we didn't expect you to continue excercising, I'm surprised that you didn't though. You are a tough one to keep up with the exercising with. I was in hopes you wouldn't ask me that, get that foot ready:lol:
But my cal intake is holding steady at 1200, but um...um...I have slacked off alittle in the exercise department. Yesterday I only did about a 31 minute session. :( I'm having a hard time getting used to the new resistance level, it's kicking my behind. I'm not going to give up though, the burning in my legs and arms will once again go away. I'm glad to see you posting again, hang in there, you'll be feeling better before you know it. Get plenty of rest.
Worried about you Cjunk, hope you are feeling better. Get well soon.
Miki, so proud of you. You're doing great. Whenever you're ready to start on those tummy exercises let me know. I'll let you go first and then you can tell me how rough they are! :D
Lady Rider, glad to see you posting. :) Thanks for the tip about the cider, I forgot about trying that. I'll have to go back to the store and check on that. Glad to hear that you are still going for your runs, you keep up the good work. Hang in there.

reina_mia, a big applause for giving up all that sugar in your coffee. I almost fell off my chair when I read how much sugar you used to put in your coffee. I wish I had a tip for you about the creamer, my husband uses a Lite version. I gave up coffee years ago, also caffeine. If I do drink coffee I drink the decaffienated type. Every now and then I might have a cup. I drink hot tea sometimes, decaffienated also. I was thrilled when I found the hot cocoa, now atleast I have a special treat for myself with a hot beverage. The cocoa is 99.9% caffeine free. I'm also going to try the cider that Lady suggested. Especially around the holidays.
Thanks again about the candy tip, I will check at Walmart. I've been wanting to find some different little treats for stocking stuffers. I hope the candy is individually wrapped.
Keep up the good work reina_mia, sounds like you are doing great. I think letting go of the sugar definitely shows you are serious about getting on track with healthy eating.

Lisa, You Go Girl! Cyan was talking about this not too long ago. How sometimes looking at the scale doesn't really show what you've lost. But putting clothes on and noticing a change says everything. The other day I got out some clothes that I haven't worn because of my weight gain. I was very pleased that I can now button my jacket and also not have to lay down on the bed when I try to zip my jeans!:lol:
I'm very happy for you, I know the feeling you felt. To some it might be minor, but to those of us who have struggled to get into our clothes it's a great feeling. I've still got lots of work to do on my tummy area, but so far so good. You are reaching accomplishments every time you put on something and you don't have to wrestle it on. I'm finding as time goes by, I'm a lot happier when I'm able to wear something that I haven't been able to than to see that I've lost more weight on the scale. But don't get me wrong, I'm not parting with my scale. I practically sleep with that scale.
About your question about putting your pic on this thread. When you reply to a message you will see at the bottom of that page some advice about that. If you have webspace it's a lot better to use that instead of attaching an image. You can use the img tags when you have you pic stored on your webspace. I think the other way you would hit the browse button and find your file on disk or on your computer. I've never put an image on a forum thread before either, so I will have a trial and error deal with it also. I'm not sure if this forum has a test thread or not, I will check and see. If so, I will practice there.
Cyan,thanks for the heads up about our weight, measurements on Nov. 23rd. on this thread.
Precious One, WI-Wide, hope you two are doing ok. Check in and let us know how you're doing.
Hope everyone has a great evening.
Stay Motivated, Stay Confident.
:grouphug:

Just a quick update...I went to work this afternoon but I am not feeling 100 percent. I dont have stomach cramps anymore but now I have intestinal cramps..they come and go in waves.

Thanks Annie for the food info...I will be have toast tonight ...my appetite is not back yet...have consumed thus far 600 cals...yeesh, all I had was a peanut butter sandwich with a banana! I dont think I will be exercising again tonight..I will take it easy and rest.

Cjunk where are you:?: I sure hope you are well..I send you good energy.

Over the weekend, I will replace my avatar with a face shot of me and once the holidays are over, sometime in january I will post my holiday pics of me and my friends. I am so looking forward to you girls doing the same.

Lisa, in the initial stages of weight loss, measuring yourself is actually more accurate than the scale, expecially if you are exercising thus building muscle which weighs 4 times more than fat! So kudos on you for your accomplishments.

LadyRider how was your run...and your lunch meet with your friend?

Reina_mia thanks for the candy info...we have walmart here in montreal..will take a look for those treats.

So, girls, hopefully by tomorrow, I will be exercising again, the funny thing is I weighed myself for fun ok curiosity and I lost 3 pounds in a day...whoaaa ..to bad its water weight loss...oh well, I wont give up...:lol:

Stay strong and motivated

Cyan

No time to post individually again today but saw this little poem at work today and had to bring it to share with you "chicks."


Twas the nite of Thanksgiving, but I just couldnt sleep
I tried counting backwards, I tried counting sheep.
The leftovers beckoned, the dark meat and white
But I fought the temptation with all of my might.

Tossing and turning with anticipation
The thought of a snack became infatuation
So I raced to the kitchen, flung open the door
And gazed at the fridge, full of goodies galore.

I gobbled up turkey, and buttered potatoes
cornbread and carrots, beans and tomatoes
I felt myself swelling so plump and so round
'Til all of a sudden, I rose off the ground.

I crashed thru the ceiling, floating into the sky
With a mouthful of pudding and a handful of pie.
But I managed to yell as I soared past the trees
"Happy eating to all, Pass the cranberries, Please"

May your stuffing be tasty, May your turkey be plump
May your potatoes and gravy have nary a lump.
May your yams be delicious, May your pies take the prize
May your Thanksgiving Dinner stay OFF OF YOUR THIGHS :)

I thought it was PERFECT for all of us. Dont ya agree??

Hello Everyone!! Sorry I haven't posted in so long. It was great to hear all of your postings and I felt bad for not being able to reply sooner. I have been suffering from funeral overload and also grieving with friends and connecting with them to support them through this challenging time.

I have been doing moderately well this week otherwise. I had a cold at the start of the week which my body seemed to fight faster than usual. Cyan, I am sorry to hear that you also were not feeling well. There was a bug going around in Ontario, perhaps it made its way to Montreal.

Near the end of the week with the funerals we went out for meals a lot as a way of meeting up. I didn't eat badly (mostly vietnamese and sushi which is all pretty healthy) but consequently did not really exercise either. I am going to have to spend the tail end of the week making up for it. I also have been having some evening mini-binges which is kind of like a little pattern of mine trying to sneak in and return. It is often a pattern when I am a bit blue and I definitely have had reason to be a bit down. I never had time for these before because I was usually at the pool, so I guess that means that this is a sign to get my butt back there!!!

I am worried that my jeans will stop fitting me again and I have been feeling so proud of my accomplishments so far that I would hate to screw it all up over an accumulation of mini-binges and inactivity (that would do it!).

So, here is the plan:

My boyfriend and I have plans for this evening, so before we go out I have to exercise at least 40 mins--probably my pilates tape because it is damn hard!!

Saturday---1 hour swim from 12-1pm
Sunday---1 hour swim from 12-1pm

And if I can make it to the climbing gym for a few hours that would be great too!! I have a lot of exercise catching up to do!! By this time this week I have usually put in about 3-4 hours of exercise and also eaten less than I have this week (argh!).

I will also go light on the eating. Weekends are usually the hardest but frankly I have had enough of restaurants lately and they are usually what brings my eating up higher---otherwise I am pretty good.

I will remove the snacky--bingey foods from my cupboard this weekend and restock my fruits and veggies.

It's back to boot camp!!!

Talk to you all soon when I have time to post more individual replies

Cjunk

Hello ladies! TGIF!!!! I'm so glad it's the weekend...if only I didn't have anything to do! I have a lifetime fitness class tomorrow morning and a wedding tomorrow afternoon in which I'm singing and I'm in charge of the flower girls since my daughter is one of them.:p Will I ever get a break?

Thanks all for the congrats on my clothes fitting better! I felt so good all day yesterday and was motivated not to overeat! Wow, it's amazing how success motivates us to do even better!

Annie, thanks for the info on putting pic up. I will try to do that this weekend.....probably with hubby's help.:lol:

Miki...I LOVED that Poem! I think I'll show that to my mother in law. She would love it.

CJunk..glad to hear your ready to get back into the swing of things. Sounds like you have a good plan. You've had an emotional time lately and it sounds like you've been pretty good about your evening. When an event like that happens in my life, I tend to just curl up in a ball and eat eat eat. I'm definitely an emotional eater.

Well, I wanted to share a couple of things. I bought some of the Campbells Soup at Hand. I took one with me and ate (drank) in on my way to class last night. It was Cream of Broccoli. YUMMY! It was so filling! And, it's 160 calories and 9 grams of fat and 3 grams of dietary fiber. It's only 3 weight watcher points if any of you do points.:)
Also, I bought some Orville Redenbacher's Smart Pop Kettle Korn. I was looking for the butter flavor Smart Pop, but they were out, but the Kettle Korn is such a good snack when you're craving something a little sweet. It is 0 points! It has 20 calories, 0 grams of fat, and 6 grams of fiber!!! WOW!:love: :T

Well, I'm off to the gym. I hope everyone has a GREAT day!!!:wave:

Lisa:moo:

Morning Girls....My stomach is still bothering me so I went to go see my family doctor who told be that if might be a few more days before I get any relief...my stomach lining has been inflamed so now I will take antacids and Milk Of Magnesium to help...and so far it has been helping with the horrible pain I have been experiencing. So needless to say, I have not been exercising and I have not been eating either excpet for water, gatoraid and some noodles...so my cal consumption is at about 800 cals. I have been keeping hydrated so that is good and I have been sleeping lots too.

Cjunk sorry to hear about your blues...and I know you will get back on the exercise wagon...and those jeans will continue to fit.

Hey Lisa...your exercising in inspiring and taking care of your family and going to school and being on this health journey...I am glad you have come this thread to keep us all motivated. I also admire your willingness to try new things and solve your dilemas...ie: the soup for when you have classes and cant eat a normal meal

Mikki thank you for your poem...it put a smile on my face

Reina_mia, LadyRider, Annie and PreciousOne keep at it, you all inspire me so much and I so enjoy knowing that we are all in it for the betterment of ourselves.

Have a great day
Cyan

Good day everyone!

Annie, Thanks to you and everyone in this thread for making me see how really dedicated I am to make this work finally.:spin:

To answer your question about the candies, they are individually wrapped. I also went out and bought the cocoa last night. I bought the diet with calcium which is only 25 calories. I really like that part.:T

Cyan I hope you feel better fast. Try some crackers too. They will help the stomach cramps.

MikiG - I am going to post that poem on my fridge until Christmas!


Cjunk- I am sorry to hear how hard your week was. From reading your post, you will be able to fall right back into your good pattern in no time.
I have to confess, I had a bowl a cereal last night, and not the good cereal. :nono:I had sugar cereal(Lucky Charms). I still have my nights of craving snacks. I guess that really does take some time to break huh?
I can't wait to get into those 15 pairs of jeans at the bottom of my drawers that I haven't been able to feel comfortable in. Have a great swim this weekend. How is the Pilates. I want to start that?

Lisa, I also bought the campbells soup yesterday. I bought the Veggie Medley. It is only 110 cal and 2grams of fat. I have to get that popcorn too. I haven't seen a break yet, since I had my son. Is there such a word in our vocabulary anymore?:fr:

Well all, I was awakened about 4:30 this morning by my mother:yikes:, who called to tell me that my niece went into labor. So I am waiting to hear when I become a Great-Aunt......
I plan on keeping with my food this weekend, and no eating out. Ok, not eating out as much!...
have a great weekend, and I will check in. It is too hard to try to catch up on Monday's
:grouphug: :wave:

Hi I was surfing the net for food ideas...since I cant eat much, the next best thing is to look at food...oh those colorful pictures...yum
Anyway, I found a healthy appetizer which is low in cals, it looks like it might be very tasty....so here it is:

Diet for brain repairs
As part of a NASA study on nutrition needs in space, older rats in his laboratory were fed blueberry, strawberry and spinach diets.

Only the blueberry diet was effective in restoring short-term memory, and the rats showed marked improvement in balance, co-ordination and speed in finding their way through mazes.

The good news, said Joseph, is that there is hope for people 60, 70 and 80.

"We may have a tool for going back into the brain (to effect repairs)."

Cheese and Vegetable Quesadillas with Avocado and Tomato Salsa
The combos of beneficial compounds in this dish can't be beat. Carotenoids, the pigments which provide colour to fruit and vegetables, are plentiful as are nutrients such as folic acid and vitamin E. And it's delicious to boot!

Vegetable oil cooking spray
3 large flour tortillas, preferably whole wheat
1 cup (250 ml) shredded light cheddar or Monterey jack cheese
1 small red pepper, diced
1/3 cup (75 ml) chopped green onions, green parts only

Avocado and Tomato Salsa

1 avocado (preferably California), peeled and diced
1 tomato (about 6 oz/150 g), diced
3 tbsp (45 ml) finely chopped red onion
1 tsp (5ml) finely chopped jalapeño pepper
5 tsp (25 ml) fresh lime juice
2 tsp (10 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp (25 ml) chopped fresh coriander, or cilantro
Salt

Avocado and Tomato Salsa:
In a medium bowl, toss together avocado, tomato, red onion, jalapeño pepper, lime juice, olive oil and coriander; season with salt to taste. Set aside. (Salsa may be made a few hours ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)

To make quesadillas:

Prepare a baking sheet by spraying with cooking spray.
Spray one flour tortilla with cooking spray and place sprayed side down on baking sheet.
Divide cheese into 1/3-cup (75 ml) portions.
Spread half of one portion on half of the tortilla, leaving a half-inch (1 cm) border at edge.
Top with one-third of the red pepper and green onion
Top with remaining half of the cheese.
Fold uncovered side of tortilla over filling and press down so that tortilla will remain folded.
Repeat with remaining two tortillas.
Bake in 400 F (200 C) oven for 12 to 15 minutes or until lightly browned.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly.
Cut each quesadilla into quarters and serve with Avocado and Tomato Salsa.

Makes 4 appetizer servings or 2 main course servings.

Main-course serving nutritional information:
Calories: 416, Protein: 25 grams, Fat: 15 grams, Carbohydrates: 59 grams, Dietary fibre: 10 grams, Sodium: 760 mg.

Appetizer-serving nutritional information:
Calories: 258, Protein: 14 grams, Fat: 11 grams, Carbohydrates: 32 grams, Dietary fibre: 7 grams, Sodium: 450 mg.

-Recipe by Rosie Schwartz.


Ok, gotta suck back for pepsid ac....ack

Cyan

Hello There!
My run yesterday went well, and lunch was at a small independently owned resteraunt that advertises "Eat Healthy, Live Happy". Everything is made from scratch and healthy. I had a cup of chicken noodle soup and a Sunshine Salad. That's cubed grilled chicken, slivered almonds, kiwi, cantalope, grapes and pineapple on a bed of mixed greens, with a wonderful mango dressing served on the side and 2 home made rolls. :T Yummy!
I got out of work early today and have the house to myself tonight ... so, here's the plan. I'm going to ride the bike for 30 minutes, then after a hot shower I'll get into some comfy sweats. And, because it's getting down into the 30's tonight, I'll light a fire:flame: in the fireplace, dim the lights a bit, turn on some mellow music and bury myself in a good book. Ahhhhh ... I'm starting to relax all ready. :cloud9:
Have a great Friday, and I'll meet you all back here tomorrow to post our measurements!

Lady :dance:

Well, I took so long figuring out how to crop a picture to make it small enough to fit in here, I dont have time to post much. lol I hope everyone else is able to get a pic on here also. It's nice putting a face with the names.

Cyan and LadyRider....nice pics!

Had Mexican food tonite, and too much of it. It's all I had today tho. Didnt find time for breakfast or lunch. Kids are both gone tonite so hubby and I are about to hit the couch for a nice quiet relaxing nite.:D

I'll be back tomorrow to post the measurements and weight.:o :( :?: :^: Not looking forward to that! :fr: LOL But gonna just take a deep breath and going for it! :faint:

Well, the couch is calling my name!! Hope you all have a very nice weekend!! :wave: Bye for now :)

MIKI

PS I did at least fit in 25 minutes of exercise.

Hello Gang,

Not much to post tonight mainly because my boyfriend is doing a lot of programming lately so our computer has become a commodity!!

Great to see all of the pics!! Gotta find a recent picture of me. I went to Mexico during the hurricane (not intentional) and I have a few pics from there, so maybe I will scan them.

Well, I sorta got back on track. I ended up missing out on Friday evening exercises, but had a 3 hour climbing gym workout (some of it was socializing!) on Saturday and then a 1 hour swim today (full hour). So other than my usual walking I really only worked out 2 large workout days out of 7 because of the funeral blues. I also had a good weekend for eating and getting back on track.

I have plans to swim tomorrow night, climb on Tuesday night with some girlfriends, and I have already packed a healthy lunch for tomorrow.

For some weird reason I have been craving peanut butter this weekend and I had a little bit but the craving stands so I am going to have to fight it!!

Gotta go--Cyan, I hope you are feeling better soon.

Individual messages to all when I have a chance to spend more than 10 minutes at the computer!!!

Cjunk

Hello to everyone. Hope everyone had a great weekend. Mine was very, very busy. Staying on track with the calories, but exercise time this weekend was at an all time low. But I was very active, so hope that accounted for a big help with burning some calories. Tomorrow I will get back on track with the exercise sessions.
Cyan, glad to hear you're starting to feel some better. I know you've gone through a rough time with that stomach virus.
Everyone's pics look great. I was surprised when I came on the board and saw that some of you had posted your pic. I'll get mine on here tomorrow. I don't know if the date has been changed about the weight and measurements for the holiday focus. Perhaps with the forum changing servers everyone has decided to wait until Monday. So I'll wait and see what everyone else is planning to do.
Miki, that nice quiet, relaxing evening sounded great. Hope you and your husband had a very nice evening. Don't worry about the weight and measurement posting. My measurements aren't great, takes some courage for me also to post mine. But that's why were here, to help each other. Monday is my usual weigh in day so I'm crossing my fingers that I have lost another 3 pounds.
Tomorrow is also a doctor's visit for me. :stress: I dread it. My appointment is in the afternoon, so I will try to come in and post before I go. If not, I'll post tomorrow evening sometime.
LadyRider, glad to hear that you are staying on track with your goals. You're an inspiration.
Cjunk, reina_mia, Lisa and Precious One, hope you all are doing great and staying on track. All we can do is try to do our best. Every day situations sometimes changes what we wish we could do but don't have the opportunity to. Stay strong and stay true to yourself.
I will talk with everyone tomorrow. Have a great day.
Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

2nd Attempt.
I just had a great post, and my pc froze up.

Who would have thought I would have gone through with this but here goes nothing.

First off, let me start out by saying that I had a pretty decent weekend. I stayed within my calorie range and we even went to Hooters Friday night. We went to visit my new Great-Nephew. He was born on Friday and weighed in at 7lbs 13oz.
He is just a doll..

At Hooters, everyone had their world famous fried buffalo wings. I had streamed Crab legs and shrimp. Not bad huh?

Ok,
here they go. To be honest with you all, I didn't think I was going to go through with this challenge. Once you start talking about posting our weight and measurements, I screamed...:fr:
But here I am, getting ready to post and not feeling too bad about it.

Hey, if I can't be true with all of you, how can I be true to myself. My husband can't believe how "highly I think of women on the internet"
But you all have been my inspiration and motivation to continue with this journey to a new life for me.

Drum roll please!:yikes:
Measurements as of 11/24/02
Weight 193.4
Waist 43
Arms 14
Thighs 26 1/2
Chest 43 1/2

Well,
I hope you all have a great week and don't kill and forget to celebrate Thanksgiving! Have a Blessed Day

:bravo:

Thank you for all your well wishes...I am well and feeling so much better. Last night, I exercised on the bike for 30 minutes for a distance of 9.3km and burned over 300 cals.

I will post my measurements again...the original got lost when the servers were changed...so here goes

chest 38 inches
waist 32 inches
hips 42 inches
upper arm 13.5 inches
upper leg 26.5 inches

I weigh 169 pounds ...but I may have lost a couple of pounds...my scale in on the fritz.

We are brave ladies and together we will be victorious over the buldge.

LadyRider, Miki and Lisa...your posts of your measurements were lost too....:o

And its so nice to put a face to everyone who has posted their lovely mugs on this thread.

Reina_Mia...kudos on your food choice...very hard to do...I probably would have ordered something fried:lol:

Annie good luck at the doctors...I dont like doctors too...they scare me.

cjunk wow ...all that exercising...amazing...you always encourage me to keep at it...I follow your example often...your actions speak louder than words.

Has anyone seen PreciousOne?:?:

I hope posting weight and or measurements hasn't scared anyone off. The point of this challenge is to keep us on track...so as not to go sabotage our successes....it is not to be nosey...We are a great group of ladies and we are on this health journey for the betterment of our health, body image, self esteem. We each have our own personal reasons too. So, if you need help, post here and all of us will support you in your stumble...no one is perfect, there will be good days and bad ones...together we will see you through the bad ones.


I havent had any binge crazes lately...especially in lieu of my stomach virus...but when I was binging, you ladies walked me through it with your advice and support...I thank you

Well, gotta get back to work

Cyan

Do any of you belong to a club called Curves? I am interested in hearing what you think about them. They are just popping up here in Chicago, and I am considering signing. But that is a huge committment on my part, and I am not sure if I am ready for that. I signed up for Bally's once and my husband :fr: out on me...

Considering I never went and we signed up for 4 years... Ouch.. He is not ready to pay for something that I won't commit to.

Am I ready? Do I really have the determination to get my butt there for their 30 minute program?
What do you all think?:o

I want this, and I think it will work, but that is money out of our budget that I can't justify yet. Can you help me?

Thanks

Where is everyone today? I feel abandoned:shrug:
I miss the afternoon chatter amongst ourselves..

Hope everyone had a great day!

:grouphug:

Tonight was so hard...I had a spaghetti dinner and afterwards, I didn't want to exercise....it was sooooo hard but I got on that friggin bike and cycled for 25 minutes for a distance of 7km and burned off 250 cals. So my total cal consumption is 1771 minus 254 for a total of 1517 cals. I love food...its so hard to control myself...had a flan pudding for lunch and another one for dinner...:tape: that was 280 cals and 8 grams of fat! That's why I had to burn it off.

Reina I dont know much about Curves except for what they say on their website. It seems cool...so long as you go...if you think it will motivate you to exercise...I would do it. Its a committement on your part not to be taken lightly...if you feel you are ready to join a gym...more power to you. And I am glad you are in for the pre-new year's resolution challenge:D

Good night

Cyan

I hope this challenge didnt send everybody off and running...that was not the intention...we are all human...but together we will be strong!

Reina...I too miss the chatter...come back girls...continue to post regularly...it will help you stay motivated and focused

bye again

Cyan

Arrrrrrggghhhh!!! I just typed a HUGE post...took me FOREVER....addressed everyone individually and included my weight, measurements, and everything! Then I clicked on "SUbmit" and it said I used too many icons, to go back and try again. I clicked on Back..and It's GONE!!!!:cry: I cant believe it! So anyway, about to go start again. Just wanted to let ya'll know it will show up soon...IF it works this time!

Cyan and Reina....on my way shortly! Just noticed your last posts. Didnt chicken out..just having probs getting posted for some reason. I'll have it shortly tho. Dont give up on me :)

reina_mia, I've heard about Curves, I believe it is the exercise program that only women attend. I know a lot of women feel more comfortable with the fact that only women are there during the exercising. About your budget and you considering joining a group, the main thing is if you're ready to commit to something like that and give it 100%. I think a lot of times women give up on different programs because to begin with they weren't ready to give something 100%. It's the same thing when people begin their weight loss journey, some may fail while others succeed. I have always felt like you have to really want something, you have to feel way down deep inside that you are going to succeed in your goal and stick to that feeling. I've never really thought that much about designated programs as such. Every person that strives at losing weight has their own type of focus, some feel they can do it alone with minimal expense while others do need outside help. No person's way is better than anyone elses. Whatever helps that person succeed towards their goal is the right way for them in losing weight. For me, I didn't want to spend the money to get outside help, I felt that I got myself into this mess I'll get myself out. This has worked for me so far, but what worked for me might not work someone else. I tried to focus on my bad eating habits in the beginning. I knew that's where my trouble was. The next problem I had was not being active enough. So I took those two things and I developed a new plan for myself, it took a lot of work and determination. And the will power to stay away from the foods that I knew were wrong for me and piled the weight on. I really do believe if my husband hadn't said something I would still be bingeing away. I started thinking about my health like I never had before. It doesn't happen over night, you wish it could. Sometimes in the beginning I would go to sleep at night wishing I could wake up 20 pounds lighter. I dwelled too much on losing weight instead of my focus for wanting to lose the weight. Health was the main reason, but also the way my clothes fit. You mentioned the other day about your clothes fitting better, it's such a great feeling to see results like that. Always praise yourself for any accomplishment you reach. It could be a half pound, a half inch. I can tell by your replies that you are so determined to reach your goals, you are reaching out for any help to aide you. I really thought in the beginning that I could do this alone, I was determined I was not going to sign up for any programs. That's when I had the thought to reach out for some support online. This forum has helped me so much during my journey. You ladies are some tough ladies. I've never read or heard about such inspiration and motivation coming from people before. From the start of this thread we all knew we were in the same boat, we have been there for each other or atleast tried to be. We've reached the point that we're comfortable talking with each other and have progressed to the point that we have shared our pics with each other and our weights and measurements. We are being true to ourselves and to each other. None of us are perfect, like I've mentioned before if any of us thought we were we wouldn't be here. We all have a common bond, we're on a weight loss journey together. We've learned a lot about each other through our writings. We know each other's weakness. Mine as you all know is cheesecake, potatoe chips, sugar and just about any dessert you could name. Reading your replies about your cravings for McDonald's is myself looking into a mirror. Your McD cravings are like my potatoe chip and dessert cravings. My heart goes out to you, I know what all you go through. None of us here are having an easy time, we all have our weaknesses and we all have our goals. In whatever way we find comfortable to help us reach those goals in a healthy way we stand behind each other. We all knew when we decided to lose weight that we were ready to. That's the key issue, you have to be ready to lose the weight. It's a mind over body issue. If you feel that you need an extra program to help you out I don't see anything wrong with that. But if money is the issue, which nowadays money is getting tighter and tighter with everyone. You might need to sit down and think things through seriously and think out your plans. Consider what your reasons are for needing an outside plan to help you. Is it for motivation, more scheduled exercising, etc. I have heard so many people say well I joined this fitness center but I couldn't lose any weight but other people were losing. I always think to myself, perhaps those answers lie within the person themselves. Everyone would love to find a quick fix, something guaranteed to help them lose the weight. My response is the same, the answer lies within the person. There are no quick fixes, quick weight loss results that are healthy. I feel it begins with healthy eating and good exercise regulary. It's about how we feel about ourselves, somewhere in life things get off track. We take eating for granted, it pacifies us in our low moods, our happiness and just every day events. We got off track when we forgot that food is supposed to nourish the body not grant us the mood we wish to find. Please know that these thoughts are just mine and how I feel about myself. I'm not preaching to anyone or trying to get others to feel the way I do. But I feel that when I look in the mirror now I know that what I'm doing for myself is becoming healthier. Sure I don't get to sit down and eat a super size bag of potatoe chips and go back for 2nds or thirds on the cheesecake but what I do get to do is be healthier. I get to eat a meal without feeling like the zipper is going to fly right out of my pants. I don't ever want to feel that way again. When you can honestly sit down and ask yourselves that question, do I honestly feel good after sitting down and stuffing myself until I feel miserable in my clothes the bad eating habits still has a hold on your lifestyle. I still wonder how I used to be able to sit down and devour all that food. Sure it tasted good, but did I not know I was full. My problem was that I didn't think about what I was eating or how much of it I consumed. I could watch a movie and eat a large bag of chips without realizing I had. It's all about a lifestyle change, and yes it's hard to rearrange and get rid of the bad things. After all they had become my lifestyle, I felt like I was losing my best friend when I gave up those chips. How would I ever be able to watch a movie without munching on a bag of chips. Guess what, I did manage. And yes in the beginning I felt like I was not going to make it. I would have to get up and stop watching the movie, my habit was that bad. And I'm not in the clear yet, I've still got things to work on. Things that drive me up the wall, but I will manage. There's a phrase I always keep close in thought, the Lord never gives us anything we can't handle. At times we might think that we can't, but in the end when we look back we see that we did make it through. So reina_mia, if you feel that you need to join a fitness group and your budget can handle that by all means seek the additional help you need. But sometimes just looking inside ourselves we can find ways for an alternate route. I wish you much success in your journey, and if you ever need any support I'm here for you. Stay Strong.
:grouphug:

Ok, this is going to be a shortened version of the hour long posting session I just finished and lost. :( Just dont have the energy to think it all out again and too tired to type that much again also.

First things first....my self-humiliation exercise..lol Here goes..

Weight: 228 lbs ( started at 235 2 weeks ago )
Waist: 43.5 inches
Chest: 44.5 inches
Hips: 52 inches :yikes:
Thighs: 26.5 inches
Arms: 15 inches
Did I leave anything out??

Whew!! I made it!:faint: Ya'll have no idea how hard that was..lol

Cjunk...welcome back! Your 2 days of good workouts sounds like it is more strenuous than my week's worth all put together. You're doing great!

Cyan...glad to hear you're feeling much better!! Congrats on your lack of binges lately.

Annie...hope you got a good report at the doctor today. Now get your butt in here and post those mearements! Misery loves company, ya know.:lol:

Reina Mia...my hubby doesnt "get it" either. He's always asking, "How can you possibly find so much to say about eating too much and especially to people you dont even know" It's hilarious because he has no idea..I have more prob finding when to STOP...I have no problem at all thinking of things to say. lol
Tonite I told him not to look when I was typing my measurements. He said "You mean you'll tell them and not me??" I said...you got it! lol
Oh, Reina...I have a complaint. Some of our measurements are pretty close but you get to weigh 30 lbs less than me...NO FAIR!!!!:mad: lol ( just kidding, but I AM jealous:p ):)

Well, in a nutshell, that's pretty much what I had typed earlier..just a much shorter version. I bet next time I"ll "Save" before I "Submit" tho. :D

Miki, that's what happened to me the other day. I lost my post several times. Keep on trying Girl :)

I'm in the process of changing my avatar, I will post my weight and all with that one.

Thanks Cyan, the doctor visit didn't go exactly as I'd hoped. I was so worried about blood work, my weight, etc. But the unexpected occured today. Feeling alittle down tonight. I go back this week for more tests. My weight was good today, I was proud that I've accomplished some of my goals. I'll meet the news I received today head on, seems like not too long ago I did a post about things occurring in our lives that we're not prepared for. But I'll get through this.

Well before I start rambling again, I need to change my avatar and do my weight, measurements on a post.

Be back shortly.
:grouphug:

Annie....Ditto to all of the above!! You typed much of what I had tried to say in the post that got lost. Thanks! It was like reading something I had written myself. I am just so thrilled that I joined this site. The support and encouragement has been the backbone of my successes lately. THanks to all of you for that!!!

Miki, I know what you mean. All of you ladies have helped me so much. There have been so many times that I felt like I was hanging on by my fingernails, I found that I was not alone in the way I was feeling. So many of you here have helped me be able to hang on day by day. Cyan has the right idea, during the holidays instead of us focusing on losing weight, let's try to maintain our weight. That's a good challenge for all of us, to maintain instead of lose or gain. Of course losing will be great, but I don't see that as something that will occur with me during the holidays. Great idea Cyan. I know with the wrong foods in front of me it will be very easy for me to pile the weight on. So I'm taking Cyan's suggestions and focusing on maintaining my weight. Somebody please hide those potatoe chips! :s:
All of my measurements are about the same, I am round all the way down. I look like Santa :lol: So in the holiday pictures I post here I am going to hold up a sign to hide my mid section.

Thanks to all of you for the support. Glad we could all be brave and post our pics and measurements. Staying true to ourselves and each other is the step in the right direction. It's nice to be able to put a face with a name now. All of you are very nice looking ladies. Very friendly faces.

Here goes...

SW: 156
CW: 129
GW: 115/120
chest: 35
waist: 31
hips: 37

I'm with Cyan on what she posted. If anyone feels that they aren't comfortable posting a pic, measurements, weights, etc. please don't let that keep you from coming here and joining in with the support. I was alittle nervous about posting my pic, I'm an old gal, and I dislike my roly poly tummy.

Hope everyone had a good day. Have a good day tomorrow. No exercise for me tonight at all. Not feeling too great, hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
Take Care everyone, Stay Strong, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Hello Everyone,

Well it took me some time to figure out but I finally got a pic on the site!

I had trouble sizing it and taking out some of the colours (consider them there for effect!! as it was originally a group photo).

Here are my current measurements:

36 chest
27 waist (but fluctuates from 27-28 still not settled)
40--Yes, down 3 inches!!! Yaay!! Still a fine asset though!
Thigh-23
Upper arm-11 1/2
Weight-132 lbs

It has been a struggle maintaining weight but I think if I keep plugging away at it I will get there. My goal weight is about 120-125 which is a healthy weight for me because I am vertically challenged and not very tall.

Once again I am going to be a bit selfish and use the group for a shoulder to lean on. It seems that this few weeks have been tough. A lot of unexpected loss. One of my co-workers left unexpectedly for personal reasons and she will be missed. My role will change significantly and it will be challenging and perhaps stressful.

So, I went for a swim tonight and tried to relax and recoup. My boyfriend got me some sushi with recognition that I was likely to crash on the eating and he also picked up some flowers. He even came and read his book while I swam. What a sweetheart. In any case, she will be missed and I have been struggling with all of the loss. So I guess maintaining the weight loss has been a challenge amidst all the loss. My patterns have been a bit more lax but not totally gone. Unfortunately I am seeing it in my fluctuating measurements and a bit in the self esteem category.

Enough about me, Annie, I hope that all is well and we are here to support you to stay on track while you deal with any news you may get.

Cyan, I am happy to hear that you had a big plate of pasta--your body is probably craving some energy burning foods because it has gone with none for so many days. Not to worry--your body is naturally demanding you to replenish itself. The fact that you are getting on your bike is something else!! Great work!!

Reina-Mia, I have heard that Curves uses a form of circuit training where you keep up your cardio rate and then use high rep toning using low-level weights. I understand that they indicate that it is a form of exercise that can be accomplished in a condensed timeframe of less than 1hr. I have heard some good things about circuit training but not too much about Curves itself.

LadyRider, I hope all is well with you. I haven't individually posted for a while and am catching up on reading all of the details of everyone over the last little bit. I hope all is well with you and that you are keeping up on your running!!

I will reply more to everyone once I read all of the posts.

Didn't last in the pool for more than 35 mins tonight with a sore shoulder but it was a straight 35 minute workout. I think I swam about 1km or 40 lengths so I would call that solid for tonight. Didn't drink near enough water or eat near enough veggies today. Will get back on track tomorrow with that too!

Cjunk

:wave: Hi Everyone!
I tried posting earlier, but it got lost on the server change over, so here goes:
Chest: 38
Waist: 33
Hips: 42
Arm: 14
Thigh: 23
Weight 148
Height : 5' 1/2" (just to give the measurements prospective);)

I had a great weekend for fun and exercise, but not good for eating. I took two of my granddaughters for the weekend and we had a wonderful time. We ate out, went to the movies, went shopping, ate ice cream and brownies, and generally got silly. Have you ever tried sitting backwards on a treadmill? Then when someone turns it on you slide off onto a pile of pillows and laugh yourself silly. :lol: Since Dennis's passing, this has not been a happy house, and these girls (age 10 and 14) were exactly what I needed to lift my mood. Cyanne, the 10 yr old, ran with me Sunday morning, then challenged me to the treadmill that afternoon. She said I had to do what ever she did. Well the little stinker upped the speed every 20 seconds for 10 minutes. We were flat out running by the end of the challenge. I beat her, but I had a good workout doing it. I jogged another two miles that afternoon to try and burn off the brownies and ice cream. When I weighed in this morning I hadn't lost any weight, but I did lose 1 inch.
Reina_mia - Curves just opened here in my town. I haven't looked into it because I know I wouldn't make the 30 minute drive to get there. I'm thinking if you're not sure you would stick with it, it isn't the right time to join. You know how hard it can be to get motivated to exercise when you're doing it in your own home. Now imagine having to get dressed and drive someplace to do it. It is my opinion that these places have you sign a contract to commit to big bucks because they will get their money even if you don't come. If they charged per session instead, they would never get rich. Just my humble opinion.
Cyan - So glad you're feeling better! I agree, I love seeing the faces that go with the names. You know what? We're a pretty good lookin' group of women! ;)
Annie - It's so great to "see" you!. And you're not old, I have you beat by quite a few years. :o I don't know what the doc and tests may tell you, but I want you to know you are in my prayers. I'm here if you need to talk.
Cjunk - glad you're back on track with the exercise. I love your pic!
Mikki, Congtrats on posting your measurements! Just keep thinking about how good you will feel each time those numbers go down. ;)
I'm having lots of sweet cravings. Went shopping for the ingrediants for the goodies I'm baking for Thanksgiving, and it was all I could do not to buy a candybar at the check out counter. Also, it occurred to me this morning that the last couple of times I went on a diet, I was never able to get below 148. I just got sloppy with counting calories or started cheating little by little until I gave up all together. I feel like I'm standing on the edge, If I can just make myself step back I'll be ok, but if I jump over I will not be able to get back on track. I didn't have this support group those other times, and I'm VERY grateful I have you all to help me through this this time. I wrote most of this last night. When I went to post it, my server went back to the old site, so I just saved it. This morning I was feeling worse - was even considering not running at all - Until I pulled up the list to see what you all have written. Well, that was a great help, cause I am going to run this morning. And I threw away the rest of the brownies and sweet rolls. With your help and encouragement I will step back from the edge.

Together We WILL Succeed!
:grouphug:
Lady

Wow! We are a good looking bunch...All these wonderful faces...it is so nice to be part of this group....I cannot express the happiness I feel when I come here and read all of your encouraging posts and daily summaries of your lives...just wonderful.

Annie...first off ...You are a beautiful woman...so elegant looking and your measurements..you are tiny tiny tiny:) Secondly, I send you lots of good energy to face what may come in terms of your results. I am here if you need someone to talk to...about anything.

Cjunk...does your boyfriend have a brother! He seems like a dream. Good going on the swimming. I know its been tough with all the turmoil of the last couple of weeks. But you will do it, you are a tough cookie and you will rise to the challenge.

Opps before I forget...I just read this today...SELENIUM LOWERS CANCER RISK BY SUPPRESSING MUTATED GENE
New scientific findings have revealed that selenium activates a tumor-suppressing gene called p53, which seems to work by causing abnormal cells to die or preventing them from replicating. The p53 gene is mutated or inactive in many types of cancer. Although it has been known that selenium can lower the risk of certain types of cancer, the exact mechanism has been unknown. Researchers estimate that the average American diet provides only 50 mcg of selenium daily, and that a multivitamin containing selenium is a good idea for most people. They also recommend about 200 mcg of selenium per day for cancer prevention. Antioxidants such as selenium neutralize free radicals, natural but dangerous byproducts of normal body processes that can damage healthy cells and lead to many chronic diseases. The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Early Edition.

I have been taking a selenium supplement for the last 6 7 months.

LadyRider I know exactly what you are feeling...interms of those sweet cravings...sometimes, I swear I hear them calling my name...by then, its too late for me, I have already thrown a sweet down my neck...I love chocolate...chocolate cake...any kinds of rubbish meats...hotdogs, Mcdonald's Big Macs...fatty cold cuts...I can go on for hours...but my mouth is starting to salivate:lol:

Miki thanks for congratulating me on not binging, it has been very hard at times...I realized that in the evenings, instead of sticking around the kitchen/pantry area, I go upstairs to where there is no food, get on the computer and post here, or watch tv or talk on the phone...and before I know it, its time for me to go to bed. Another thing I do is prepare my lunch for work immediately after I eat my dinner...this way I am not tempted to eat my lunch :T
Yes, its true, I've been known to do this...if I wait too long to make my lunch and its been a couple of hours since dinner...when I make the lunch...I eat it, then I have to make another lunch immediately after... :o This is my dirty little secret.

Reina...so what will you be doing about Curves? Let us know what your decision is.

Ok Girls...stay strong...have a great day

Annie...you are in my prayers...stay strong, positive and healthy

Cyan

Cyan- Thanks for the selenium information. I will start taking it and pass the information onto my brother- in - law who is in the process of fighting cancer.
And thanks for sharing your "dirty little secret". :ink: I have one too. I love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, so when I am home alone I take two huge globs of peanut butter and mix it with lots of chocolate syrup, then sit down and eat the whole thing. I'm too embarrassed to do this when my husband is home to say "What on earth are you eating?":o



:grouphug:
Lady

Welcome back everyone!
This is a great looking group. And I am glad to see that everyone is up and ready for the Challenge.

Lisa & PreciousOne - where are you guys:?:

Cyan, pasta is my weakness when it comes to food. I can't ever stop eating it when I start. But you thought right by burning it off with exercise. I have to start reading up on supplements. I take no vitamins at all, and everyone tells me I should. Any recommendations

MikiG - I did that the other night with all my weight measurements and everthing that went on over the weekend and I added too many icons too, and then lost it all. I screamed and said forget it, I can't rememeber what I wore the night before let alone what I just wrote, so I just reposted measurement and that was that. I should have learned, I normally type as I read everything on a little notepad in Outlook. Then I copy over, and I always do this except for that night.....
We would never give up on you, just a little concerned no one checked in all day yesterday until late last night.

Annie, I had to read your post at least 3 times today. I totally relate to what you are feeling. It is in us, deep down inside I know. I have never had a strong bone in my body when it came to willpower. I am 30 years old, and I can say that I never was able to really really succeed on any diet plan. Because I didn't have the will to do it. I didn't have the 100% determination to keep going. I still look at my wedding pictures and wonder, why I couldn't lose the weight for the most important day of my life. :?: But now, because of you and all the other women in this unbelieveable group, somehow, someway, gave me the will to finally do something for myself and help me through it. I think of all of you women like my best buddies. I don't even tell my husband exciting news first. I log on and tell you all.

Annie, sorry to hear that your dr visit didn't go too well. I will pray that you get some better news. God helps us through the worse and the best. Keep him in your thoughts.
I really appreciate you expressing your true feelings to me, and you are right, if we can't be true to ourselves why are we even here right now.
MikiG - Funny. we are very close in measurements. But I am barely 5 feet tall so I bet that is where the difference is for us.

LadyRider --I am also doing all the baking for Thanksgiving, and I am sure it will hit me by tonight how hard this part will be, I am thankful that my husband went and bought me some goodies for me to eat and not feel too burdened with making the deserts.

Cjunk, stress can be a big factor in losing your focus on your goals. Remember one things, we can't change the things we can't control, therefore it is useless in worrying about them. You know by now that I am a huge emotional eater, and like a big change like that, I would have hit the closest McDonalds or Pizzahut.. It was great to see that you went swimming And to have a boyfriend like that, he is a gem. Hold on tight to him.

Well, I went to Curves this morning for a free workout and to see what they were really about.
They are a form of circuit training with 9 hydraulic machines and 9 flat boards. You move from each machine to a flat board every 30 seconds. It is less stress on the muscles and you don't sweat as much. I was very impressed with the workout. I didn't feel my muscles being worked as much as I do it at home and I feel really great. They are very unique. They don't have showers, or daycare. They expect you in and out in 30 minutes. The rate is about the same as going to a local YMCA, but it is more convenient to me.
Now I can tell you this. I really liked it and would like to do that 3x's a week, because it makes me more accountable for working out. Whereas working out at home, I always say I have to clean this room, or give my son a bath or sleep in. This way, I have to get out and drop off my son at school and can go straight there. But I won't be telling my husband that I want to join. I want it to be his decision to give me the membership. I want him to feel that I have shown my determination to succeed. :smug:I will try to workout at home for now and see if he decides to do it. I liked it, because it wasn't too hard on my bones and muscles. It did raise my heart rate up enough where I had to slow down a little bit.

Thank you all for your words of support and input.
Glad to see everyone back. :bravo:

Hello everyone!:) I just spent the past week it seems, catching up on all the posts! I LOVE everyone's pics!:^: I hope to get mine up sometime soon. Not now, but maybe tonight after class when hubby is here for technical support.:dizzy:

Annie, we are here for you! We have all become close to each other in a weird sort of way. I find myself thinking about one person or another from the group as I'm trying to fight a craving or deciding if I should go to the gym or not or if I just have something to talk about and need advice. It's hard to explain, but this group is important to me and I really feel good chatting with you guys.

I know my measurements got lost which the server change, so here they are again:

Weight 184.5 Height: 5 ft 4 inches
BUST: 42
UPPER ARM: 15
WAIST: 39
HIPS: 47
THIGH: 24

Wow, I have HUGE hips compared to the rest of me! I must elimate them!

Well, I went to the gym today. First time since last friday. Saturday night I ate way too late in the evening and was up for about 3 or 4 hours in the night with ACID REFLUX. At least that what I assume it was. I thought I was having a heart attack. It hurt sooooo bad! Read my journal for the scoop.

I have a plan for Thanksgiving. First of all I'm going to exercise like crazy tomorrow and Friday. I will also go for a walk before and after my Thanksgiving Dinner...no matter how cold it it outside. I will first fill my plate with Turkey and vegetables. Then, I will go back for small helpings of the creamed corn and potato casserole, and stuffing, and bread, etc. I will also have a couple of desserts. I will not deprive myself of something I REALLY want. If I'm not sure it's going to be wonderful, I won't eat it. I will eat eggs for a late morning breakfast because Thanksgiving dinner will be at 2pm. I will not eat any food after 6pm. Back on plan for Friday! OH yeah, I will also drink water water water on Thursday and maybe a diet dr pepper.

That's all for now!
LISA

Hello to all the friendly faces here. I agree, very nice pics here. Everyone has such friendly and kind looking faces. It's a nicer feeling here now that we can relate to each other by our faces and names. I love all that color in your pic Cjunk. Very happy feeling seeing the colors.

Lady, thanks for the support about the age, but I know too well that the big 50 is coming in May. I hope all you younger ladies enjoy your life and beware of the middle age spread. It will sneak up on you.
Lady, I tried the cider last night. Very, very delicious! :) And the aroma is out of this world. Makes me think of the Christmas holidays. Thanks for the tip on the cider, it was a lift to my spirits last night. You're not an oldie, you have held your youth very well. You don't look your age at all.

Cjunk, I often wonder how you deal with all that occurs in your life. Some people have things occur over time, but lately it seems that life is throwing everything at you all at once. You continue to inspire me with your strength. When I was your age I probably would have fell down and gave up if life had dealt me the things you are going through. Now Cjunk, you don't even need to ask for support from us ladies. We're here for you even when you don't realize it. It sounds like you have met a very remarkable man. Those are hard to come by. Sounds like he is a very caring person, don't let him get away. That was so sweet about the flowers, like I said don't let him get away.
You asked for some shoulders to lean on in here, well there's lots of shoulders here, all of us are here for you. You hang in there, take things day by day. Don't let the new job responsibilities get to you. Take things step by step and don't dwell on the new pressure. You can do this, just put it in your mind that nothing will get you down. I always tell myself, nothing is going to beat me unless I let it. Always remember to take some time for yourself. Leave the job thoughts behind and all of life's issues and focus on something just for you. Life has become so busy that sometimes we don't have time to take even a few minutes for ourselves. When we come to the point that we are bogged down that's when we step back and say hey it's about time that I readjusted a few things in my life. It's so easy to lose ourselves in our daily lives. So shut the world out sometimes and focus on happy things for yourself.

Lady, I loved your account of your day. Sounds like you had a blast. That's what I call enjoying life and having time in your life to enjoy things that bring about happiness. You sound like a fun lady, see I told you that you weren't an oldie. Your story brought a smile to my face, children bring such happiness to life. You're a very strong lady, I know what you have faced over the last week. Your motivation to get through this sad time amazes me. It's very difficult to stay focused on our goals when things occur in life that sends us in another direction. It's the unexpected things that sometimes can send us flying off the edge of the cliff. We've all talked about this before about how food has been our source of emotional needs. I think all of us have done a great job with the things we have endured. You are proof that we can get through this no matter what we are faced with.

Cyan, thank you for the compliments :o . But I'm barely 5'3 so all those measurements are confined in a compact area. And besides I have never heard of a tiny Santa :lol: For the first time in my life I fully understand the verse about "when he laughed his belly shook like a bowl full of jelly". Except mine is layers and layers of cheesecake.
I understand your statements about the lunch making. I sometimes find myself fixing desserts for the family or snacks and I don't have any. But when I dish out their icecream I find that the last spoon of icecream I put in a bowl I seem to always leave some on the spoon. :s: I do that quite a lot with everything I fix, I made a peanut butter sandwich the other day for my son, I couldn't wait to lick the knife. I think a lot of my calorie consumption comes from licking knives and spoons. I sympathize with you on your cravings. There's nothing wrong with having alittle something to get you through a tough spell. For a while I was banging my head against the wall trying to avoid cravings. With certain things I can have just a spoonful or a bite of and I'm content. But there are other things that I know a bite or a spoonful would only lead to total bingeing. If I may make a suggestion to you, try that cocoa that I mentioned. I also am a chocolate eater, and believe me that cocoa satisfies the craving. 25 calories and added calcium, not a bad deal in my opinion.

Miki and reina_mia, hope you both are having a good day. Looking forward to your posts.

Thanks for the support about my health. Yesterday was not a good day. I was totally worried about my blood work, but in the end it was the least of my worries. I had my second biopsy yesterday. Well seems like their first diagnosis is pretty much accurate. So I will be seeing the specialist tomorrow. They explained to me yesterday in detail what would take place. I don't care to think about the tests he is going to perform. The ones yesterday just about had me coming off the table. So I'm going to take this day by day. I am a firm believer that the Lord will never give me anything that I can't handle. Yesterday afternoon I spent most of that time crying, I guess sort of a self pity latched on and wouldn't let go. I woke up this morning felt alittle depressed but as the day goes by I am dealing with all of this very well. I guess I just needed some time to let everything sink in. Getting news that you don't ever think you will get is a big shock to comprehend. Your first thoughts are, the results are wrong, they messed up somewhere. Sorta like denial sets in. But I'm a strong lady, very strong in my faith. I'll face this head on and kick some behind. I'm not laying down, curling up and giving way for self pity and losing the battle. It's chin up, smile on my face through all of this. Besides I have a weight loss challenge going on right now with you ladies. We have the holidays coming up, all of us are going to maintain our weight through all that food and desserts that will be in front of our eyes. We're all a strong bunch of ladies determined to reach our goals. Together we will make it.
I do thank you ladies for the care and concern. You're a very special group of people. God's Blessings to you all.

So, back to our motivation and challenge. I just about have all my baked goods finished for Thanksgiving. I have two more things to bake. One is a Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip pie for my son. I'm going to bake that Wed. night hopefully. That is one of the desserts that I will have to have a lot of will power to resist. I could eat that whole pie if I started on just one bite. But it's one of my son's favorites so I will make sure he has that for Thanksgiving. Wish me luck on not eating any of it when it comes out of the oven.

There won't be any exercise for me again today. So I am staying very active in hopes that some calories will be burned in other ways. So ride that bike an extra 10 minutes for me Cyan and Lady. Swim an extra 3 minutes for me Cjunk.

Hope everyone has a great day. Keep up the good work ladies, we can make it.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Well let me tell you...this afternoon whilst at work, I was having full on illusions of food. I was craving with every cell in my body a big mac, a mcChicken and fries...and a milkshake...I even counted how many calories that would be....over 2000 cals....then I decided I would eat chinese food...general tao chicken...fried and battered and soaked in a sugary sauce...with beijing Shrimp...same thing except shrimp....so when I was walking home, I passed mcdonalds...I looked in...no line up...but I walked over to the bus stop and took the bus home...empty handed...boy was that tough...I reeeeeeeally wanted Mcdonalds..sooooo bad. But now I'm glad I passed...I had instead oven baked fries and yes...a low fat hot dog...it was ok...I consumed 1636 cals total...so now I have to go exercise to burn off some more cals.

Annie...hang in there...you are one tough cookie...with an amazing spirit...you truly are an inspiration to me...so strong and wise...I send you lots of good energy.

The rest of you gals...well, you're not so bad either:lol:

Well I hear the bike calling...better get on it...I will ride an extra 10 minutes for you Annie

Take Care
Cyan

Okay everyone. There it is. My pic. Just so you know, it was 9pm and I just got home from class after a long day.
I hope everyone had a great day. Mine was okay. I am officially on Thanksgiving Break! I'm looking forward to it! Tomorrow, I have plans to do a step circuit class at the gym. I'm way excited about that.

I also would like to share a little bit just to get it off my chest. For about 3 years now, I have been having some abdominal pain and I've been to two different Dr.'s and and to the emergency room. They've all suspected that it's my gallbladder, but we can't ever find anything. Well, now it's getting worse and I am going to the Dr either tomorrow or Monday. If anyone knows anything about gall bladder disease, I would love to have more information. My mom says I just get it out, and is angry because I have an HMO and a lot of tests are just too expensive and they won't cover it. I may have to do a little pushing and prodding to get the care I need. I really want to figure out what the problem is.

I will log back on in the morning. Just wanted to get my pic up tonight! Sorry to put such a bad pic up in the midst of all you beauties!

Good night!
Lisa:)

Hello All,

Let me start out by saying that Annie you amaze me in that you were able to extend such support and caring first when you yourself face challenges. I admire you for your strength and want you to know that we are here for you too.

LadyRider, what fun you had on the weekend. Sounds like it was what you needed and I think your challenges burned what you ate! Good for you on throwing away those brownies!

Cyan, you just gotta read on and I am sure that you will find some weirdness in the similarities of our day--but you pulled through it and are definitely a positive example to follow. I will definitely get back on track because of everyone's support!

Lisa I think it is very positive that you have a plan in place for Thanksgiving. In fact all of you have awesome plans in place. All I can say from a Canadian perspective since our thanksgiving is already past, is damn, I am gonna miss some good turkey!! I may have to pick up some turkey breast and think of you guys...it is one of my favorite things to eat!! I will live vicariously through all of your posts! Your comment about your hips made me think of myself because I carry everything on my hips and it is the hard part to take off. I am slowly losing inches there and seeing results. You will see results too!!!


Reina-Mia--you will also find irony in my story...read on and what you said you would do under stress is uncanny because I slipped. I gotta get back on track! Curves sounded neat--it was the circuit training I read about. The important part is keeping up your heart rate in aerobic range while you are doing the weights to get the benefits. That's probably why they hustle things. It sounds like you enjoyed it a lot which is important. Too bad they don't give you a one or two week trial?


Miki, thanks for the welcome back. I look forward to reading your posts--my boyfriend thinks it is a bit unusual that we have all "bonded" but I think he is enjoying the support that I am getting because apart from this past week he has been enjoying a more energetic and happy me.

You are all right in that my boyfriend is a keeper. He is truly wonderful and my life is much more enriched with him. I hope that I can get back on track and succeed at my goals for myself but also to show him how much his support means to me. I tell him a lot as well and he kinda blushes when I read to him what I am writing to everyone about him---cute don't you think?? Cyan, he has an adorable brother but sadly his brother is only 15! Aparently he has some cousins in Montreal because he grew up there and also speaks French fluently. I will have to dig for the dirt on them and get back to you

HERE IS MY SAD NEWS FOR TODAY:

Well gang, there's some irony in all the posts I read tonight because I cracked!! I can't believe I let myself drive the McDonalds way home from work (I should have listened to your advice about driving a different way LadyRider, it was working!!!).

Today all of the stress cumulated with a discussion with the head boss and although it went well...it's like it was all bottled up. My swim last night resulted in me pushing myself too hard to destress (it worked) but my shoulder aches a lot today. I had to cancel my climbing and avoid that kinda exercise. So I did it. I ended up finding myself in the McDonalds drive-thru with no real reason other than stress driving me there. I felt immense guilt and pressure throughout the whole event. It really wasn't worth it. I ended up ordering a McHamburger Happy Meal and eating it as if I was going to die if I didn't. And then I felt even more horrible afterwards. My self-esteem went through the floor. I felt like such a failure.

Then my girlfriend called me. Her mom had chest pains and had been in the hospital all day and she was worried and stressed and she wanted to meet for dinner (yes--dinner!!). I am always there for my friends and she really did need to talk and have a good cry. I promised myself that I was there for her and not me and I forced myself not to eat anything because I already had dinner. I did order a light beer and I should have had water instead----more guilt. But I was there to support her and I think I handled it well. Several times I did not crack under french fry and natcho and fajhita pressure which she eagerly wanted me to eat. I recounted my guilt-filled McDonalds story and it made her laugh so I guess there is a reason for everything!!

I swung by the climbing gym to say hello to some friends and let them know that I'll be back soon. I regretted not going because once I got there it looked like fun and I knew I would have enjoyed that a lot more than the McDonalds.;) :devil:

So there it is--what we would call a slip not a relapse. I kinda knew I was heading in that direction because I was letting little things in my diet slide each day. I will try and get back on track tomorrow. I will also book a vacation day from work to try and regroup and take care of myself--maybe swim and get a pedicure or something!

Cjunk

Lisa,

You must have got your post in just before I posted my long one! Sorry I missed your newest post. The pic is great and I think that we are all stunning!!!

Cjunk

Argh!! I had more typed in my reply and it got wiped. Lisa, I was writing that I hope all goes well with your tests. I had some challenges in the past with a chronic issue and it can be draining sometimes but your persistance to look into it further will pay off.

I will say more soon...

Good Morning Ladies, hope everyone has a beautiful day.

That's a great pic Lisa, nice to be able to put a face with your name now. You're very pretty.
Lisa, my Dad had gall bladder surgery a while back. At first they didn't know what was wrong with him either. I remember he went through several tests. He was really sick, there is a lot of symptoms associated with that disease, especially a lot of pain. The surgery is very quick and minor the way they go about it these days. That's one good thing about medical advancement, so many surgeries now can be done with minimal time spent in the hospital and a lot easier on patients recovery time. My Dad was in the hospital I believe for 2 days when he had his surgery. I will talk with my Mom most likely tonight and I'll ask her some questions about the tests involved. Hopefully you're under the care of a good doctor that is also looking for other sources of your pain. 3 years is a long time to be in pain and not have a diagnosis of what the problem is. The two doctors you have seen already should have checked for other things and if they suspected it might be your gall bladder should have progressed with further treatment or tests. I pray you find some answers and a good doctor. You're too young to have to live with constant pain. There's an answer for it, seek out every avenue until you find it. There are other alternatives for you to turn to if you are having trouble with getting tests done, if need be bust down some doors.
You have a great plan for Thanksgiving, turkey and veggies first. And remember to wait in between eating to make sure you are truly still hungry. I hope you have a great session at the gym. And please make sure you find out what's causing your pain. I can't imagine hurting for 3 years without an answer for it. You're in my prayers.

Cjunk, I came to one conclusion when I read your post about the McDonald's adventure. You are looking at the negative side of that. Think about what you wrote, you said, "It wasn't worth it". You just learned a valuable lesson, that's the positive side. Sure you ate the food, but you now know in your mind that it wasn't worth it so perhaps next time that thought will cross your mind when the craving hits again. I did that not too long ago with a chocolate cookie. Don't beat yourself up over what you did. I don't call it backsliding or giving in. Every person has a limit that they can endure. Every now and then we all take that little step beyond the line. We're human, we're not perfect. And when the everyday load becomes alittle too much we all tend to turn to somewhere for some relief. With all of us, food seems to be that source. It's like me with the cookies, I was having one of those head against the wall kind of days, I was thinking I've about had enough of this. I went tearing into the kitchen grabbed out the cookies and said the heck with it. Sat down starting eating on the cookie and before I knew it something triggered in my mind about what I was doing and mainly "why" was I doing it. I needed a release for the stress I was feeling, I thought I would find it in the cookie I was consuming. After a while you start to realize that what you consume really doesn't take away the stress you are feeling, in fact it adds to it. Just like with what happened with you. You felt guilty afterwards, which added more stress to the stress you were already feeling. Cravings vs. alternatives to rid ourselves of the feelings we are having come in on different ends of the scope. It's very hard to do, but sometimes the best medicine is a small amount of time to seriously sit down and think about why you're getting ready to eat something. Is it hunger? The majority of the time you will find that it's not. I associate food with different things in my life. It's all habit, a very hard one to break. So please don't feel bad about yourself, you're just learning step by step how to manage issues in your life. I always think about things in this way, for everything that is negative there is also a positive side. And please remember, support from family, friends and your buddies here on the board will help you through rough times a lot better than food ever will. That candy bar or cookie or hamburger only takes a few minutes to eat and your right back where you were. Where as support goes a long, long way.
That would be great, I keep forgetting about some of you not celebrating Thanksgiving tomorrow. Turkey is very good for you. (white meat, no skin ;) ) That was so nice of you to say that you will be thinking of all of us. Just picture me sitting underneath the table with my cheesecake and you will have it about right. :s:
I hope you start feeling some relief from the pain in your shoulder. You hang in there and keep your spirits up. Don't let stress get the best of you, you're stronger than that.

Cyan, your illusions make me hungry. You did great in your choice of foods. It seems everyone here has cravings for McDonalds. They sure know how to hook people don't they. Those golden arches are in everyone's dreams. I found an article the other day about a lawsuit against them. I will post it when I finish this reply. Thanks for riding the bike for me, I really miss my exercise sessions. It has become part of my life. Hopefully in the next couple of days I will be able to get back to exercising. Depends on what takes place this morning. If the bike is out of the question for a while I'm going to have to come up with something else until I can use the bike again.
Thanks to everyone for your support and good wishes.

reina_mia, I'm very sorry my post to you came about like it did. Sometimes I ramble and get off subject. But you're right that's what I was trying to say. You have to feel deep inside that you have the determination to commit to something. You sound like you are on the right track, the things you say sound like you are ready to get busy and take things head on. Some people need a designated exercise schedule, it is a focus for them. I feel that you are taking the steps you need to take to help you. All of us are different, we're all taking some different approaches at becoming healthier. But the end product will all be the same. I hope things work out so that you can enroll in the class. If not, don't feel down about it. There are a lot of alternatives you can take. We could even start another exercise challenge in here, that way you will be setting up times for your exercise sessions and then you can post how you did here. Anything that will help you out we will be glad to do. reina_mia, I can understand perfectly why you weren't able to lose the weight for your wedding. That is a stressful, time consuming event. You have all kinds of emotions flowing during that time. Don't let the weight loss issue not happening before your wedding cloud the good memories of that day. You're a beautiful woman inside and out and I'm sure you were a beautiful bride. Don't ever feel like you could have been better in the past. Think about tomorrow, that's where opportunity lies. Life is so short, when you're young it's like you have forever. But it goes by quickly, make the best of each day. Don't frown on things from the past, you can't change them. Learn by them and go forward to enjoy what life has to offer. So keep your chin up, a smile on your face and greet each new day as a blessing bestowed upon you.

Lady, keep the motivation going. You're doing great with all that's going on in your life. Stay strong.

Miki, where are you? Hope you're doing ok. Don't forget you and I are going to try to buddy up for the tummy exercises. I'll be nice and let you go first and then you can tell me how rough they are. I swear I think I put on 2 pounds just in my stomach area last night. No matter what kind of clothes I try on nothing makes my stomach look smaller. I look like I'm 7 months pregnant if not more. My husband said to me the other day, your weight is looking good, but what are you going to do to try to get rid of the stomach. I wanted to smack him. Some people just don't realize losing weight is not an easy thing to do. Most of my problem area now is below the navel but I've still got a lot of fat to get rid of above the navel also. That's where I look like I'm pregnant at. Let's face it, like I mentioned yesterday, I've got that Santa deal going on. It's very hard getting the waistline and stomach to decrease in size. My hips and thigh weight fell right off, but from there up is a battle. My measurements might seem not too bad, but I am a small package with all the weight loaded on. With me there's about 2 feet of body that has all the weight, I look round. I keep thinking I wish there was some sort of stretch machine that I could get on. Stretch my middle section out to the top and bottom of me and that would be great. About 90 lbs. of my weight is located in my mid section. Wow! Talk about Santa resemblance. But I'm working on it, takes a lot of time and patience.
How are you Precious One? We haven't heard from you in a while. Hope you're getting along good. Come back and join us soon. We sure could use your support.

Well I'm going to stop rambling now. Need to get ready for my appointment. I'll post that article after this post if I can find it again.
Hope everyone has a great day. If some of you won't be checking in tomorrow I'd like to say at this time, have a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. I'll be back sometime this evening to see how everyone's day went. Have a good one ladies.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Here is the article I promised in my post above.

NEW YORK (Nov. 21) - Are Big Macs hazardous to children's health?

Lawyers have filed a class-action lawsuit against McDonald's on behalf of New York children who have suffered health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.

In federal court in Manhattan on Wednesday, a lawyer alleged that the fast-food chain has created a national epidemic of obese children. Samuel Hirsch argued that the high fat, sugar and cholesterol content of McDonald's food is ''a very insipid, toxic kind of thing'' when ingested regularly by young kids.

The plaintiffs include a Bronx teen who ate every meal at McDonald's for three years while living in a homeless shelter. Another is a 13-year-old boy from Staten Island who says he ate at McDonald's food three to four times a week and is now 5-foot-4 and 278 pounds.

McDonald's lawyer Brad Lerman insisted the lawsuit was a frivolous attempt to cash in on the Golden Arches, ''the kind of lawsuit that shouldn't be in court.''

''People don't go to sleep thin and wake up obese,'' Lerman said. ''The understanding and comprehension of what hamburgers and french fries do has been with us for a long, long time.''

McDonald's has asked Judge Robert Sweet to dismiss the case, arguing those who filed the claims cannot show their health woes were caused by Big Macs and insisting the company has never misled customers about its food. The judge did not immediately rule on the request.

Annie, thanks for your support. You are right that the McDonalds added to my stress. It seems like I am now almost obsessive about how disappointed I am. I guess I can understand better why a smoker might be so down on themselves when they quit and an urge brings them back. Like them I felt physically disgusting after eating it---although I have to admit the french fries did bring me moments of bliss--mind you so does rock climbing.

My shoulder is feeling a bit better today thank goodness. I wonder if it is psychological when it hurts like that!! Like an excuse or something. Anyhow, I think I need to get back on track with exercise because it is what makes me sane. I have had times where I have gotten off track with stress before and when I have exercise has always been my saving factor and not McDonalds. I have to work at 11am this morning so I think I will go for a jog and try this running thing slow and easy to see how I do. That way if my shoulder is truly tender than I am not pushing it.

At the gym last night I am getting to know a new girl who is fun, bubbly and energetic. She is also such a guy magnet!! What I discovered is that she radiates energy. I wanted to know how to accomplish this so I asked her. She said that exercise really helps her to stay alert. When she has blue or down days she thinks about it while she runs and the whole time says...I hate running, I don't want to do this, I'd rather be at home. But she said she pushes herself through those feelings and keeps going.

I was amazed. I told her that when I have those feelings I just don't do it because I CAN!! Big difference in thought processes!!

She said that this was interesting to her as she doesn't see an alternative to not doing her exercises because she knows that whether she likes it or not they make her feel good in the long run. Now I know why she is such a guy magnet---what a positive attitude!! So I guess she and also all of you will be my motivators over the next little bit! I sure could use it!! I guess I have trouble maintaining that overall vision of knowing that it makes me feel better in the long run--what separates the girls from the girls who are guy magnets!! I can't wait to get to know her more...I have a lot to learn.

I would like to say to everyone that you have all been wonderful supports to me. I have been turning to this group a lot for myself and sometimes don't feel that I give enough encouragement back. You are all wonderful people with very positive goals in mind. What a unique group we are! We should all be proud of ourselves for sharing our energy to build on things together.

Annie and Miki, I have one exercise in particular that if I do on a regular basis I notice immediate loss in my ab area and my waistline. It is like a miracle exercise for me and that is swimming!! Did you both know that in order to do a length of swimming on your tummy (ie. front crawl or stroke) that in order to keep your legs from sinking to a 90 degree angle it is your abdominal muscles working to hold them up??? So imagine now doing 10 lengths (which is even achievable with a flutterboard extended as far out in front of you as possible for a non-swimmer (and a good leg burn workout to boot!). Let's say that each of the 10 lengths is slow and takes a few minutes. That is about 20 minutes of abdominal focussed work where your abs have really had to tighten and or twist. That's more than any crunches could ever match!!

So my suggestion is that if you have a rec. centre nearby and you can go out to swim--try it if you think you might be interested!!

So that's my miracle exercise. I had no idea until my waistline narrowed that it was such a workout. A lifeguard explained that to me and ironically you naturally hold your abs in so that your leges don't sink because if they do, you might! So it is not even that gruelling hold the crunch until you want to cry type move. Easy on the joints as well.

I am off my speel now!

Thanks for the McDonalds article Annie! Let us know if you find out whether it gets thrown out or not!

cjunk

Last night I cycled for 35 minutes and burned of 360 cals for a distance of 10km....I consumed 1636 cals minus 360 cals for a total of 1276 cals. I need to focus on lowering my fat grams...its a little too high ...I average around 40 to 80 grams depending what I eat...although my cal consumption is usually 1500 to 1700 before exercising.....geez....weight loss for me has been very slow going...I think my fat cells are glued to me or something. I got on the scale and I am still 169....after so many weeks of exercising diligently and lowering my calorie consumption from 2000 to what it is now. But, I will not give up, I have lost inches around my chest, waist and hips....and even better, I feel so good, I feel strong....more alert...and that is amazing...I used to feel sluggish in the past.

Cjunk...everybody caves in once in a while...honestly, I have choked back of few burgers in my day and I am sure in the future it will happen again...we are human...and sometimes the triggers in our environment are so loud..we go into automatic and do what makes us feel better quick...I'm an emotional eater and binger....but like Annie says...try to identify with how you felt after eating the burger next time, McDonald's whishpers your name. McDonald's is still whispering to me and I know tonight I will have to keep my head down as I go by it to get to my bus stop...and I also smell the friggin McDonald's smell from accross the street on most nights....but I will remember how you felt after eating your burger because that's exactly how I feel when I cave in.

Lisa you are a cutie...very nice pic....and again,I agree with Annie..you must get to the bottom of your pain...you should not be living with this pain.

Looking forward to reading all your posts and to my american health buddies...Happy ThanksGiving...may your holidays be a blessed event....have an extra piece of white meat turkey for me:lol:

LadyRider, Reina_Mia, PreciousOne, MikiG let us know how you are doing and looking forward to hearing from you soon. I enjoy so much reading snippets of your daily lives...puts a smile on our face.

Just a suggestion to keep at the back of your minds...in about a year's time, we should set up a reunion somewhere in the middle from all of us and get together for a few days to meet and greet in person...that would be so much fun and something to look forward to...think about it and we'll get back to that soon

Cyan

Do we want to start a new thread for Jan 2,2003? ....since this thread is getting too long...called Exercise, Diet and Support #2...except this time, Exercise will be spelled correctly:lol:

let me know and anyone of us is welcome to start it.

Cyan

Lisa,
Nice to have you back. Sounds like you have a great plan for Thanksgiving. Enjoy, enjoy!
Lisa, my husband had his gallbladder taken out, but before that he was having really bad reflux all the time. I would recommend that you do go see an internist. It was going on for him for about 5 months, before we went in and his gallbladder was working at 10%... Make sure you take care of yourself and have that looked at.

Annie, your beliefs are very true, God only gives us things he knows we can handle. I am a firm believer of that, although it was after the fact, but I look back now and thank him for keeping me strong. I am sure you will get through this obstacle that God has laid down for you, but you are very right, you are a strong woman and determined is your name, so don't ever lay down and take anything. You are in my prayers and I know everything will be okay. I will also do an extra 10 minutes of Taebo just for you......

Cyan, OK, I did it, I took the plunge for you. I stopped at McDonalds and had a cheeseburger, and 1/2 of a small frie. I was in alot of pain last night, with a ruptured cyst and I just needed some food in me. I know it wasn't the best but...
I was in so much pain, I can tell you, it didn't even taste good.....
Bravo for passing up on such a bad craving....Been there, done that....
Cjunk - We are not perfect beings. So a slip is fine. The most important thing is that you acknowledged it. I too slipped, and I am done thinking about it. I won't look back anymore and I will drink lots of water and walk today!
:devil:McDonalds is an evil place!:devil:
I will catch up in my next post.

I found this info at http://www.realage.com/connect/healthadvisor/adulthealth/crs/bilcol.htm

Abdominal Pain from Gallstones (Biliary Colic)

What is biliary colic?
Biliary colic is extreme cramping pain in the right upper abdomen, the area just below the chest. The pain is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder (an organ of the digestive system) or bile ducts (small tubes that drain bile from the liver into the gallbladder and small intestines).

How does it occur?
The liver makes bile, a substance that helps to digest fats. If the bile has too much cholesterol, a solid particle forms and becomes a gallstone. Most gallstones are formed from cholesterol. Other compounds can also cause gallstones. The formation of gallstones is called cholelithiasis.

When a gallstone lodges in the bile ducts or the gallbladder, it causes abdominal pain (colic). The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis.

If you are overweight and have a high level of blood cholesterol, you increase your risk of developing gallstones.

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:

extreme pain that can feel like a heart attack
stomach pain and/or nausea after meals, especially after eating heavy or high-fat meals
yellowish eyes and skin (jaundice).
The pain can last an hour or more. Sometimes it spreads to the right shoulder or through the center of the back from the top of the breastbone.

How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose biliary colic, the doctor will review your symptoms, ask about your medical history, and examine you. He or she may use the following tests:

Ultrasound scanning: a painless procedure in which sound waves are passed through the body. The echoes produce images on a computer screen and show the internal organs of the body.
HIDA scan and CT scan: Sometimes stones will show up on an x-ray.
Cholecystography: A special type of x-ray that allows the doctor to see the gallbladder clearly. Any gallstones will be seen on the x-ray as holes.
How is it treated?
Your doctor will treat biliary colic first with medicine and a low-fat diet. The doctor may give you pain relievers.

In most cases of biliary colic the stones will need to be removed surgically. Sometimes the gallbladder is removed. In some cases, especially if you are not well enough to have surgery, other options may be tried. For example, the doctor may try to dissolve the stones with medications. Or lithotripsy may be used to try to break up the stones with focused sound waves.

How long will the effects last?
Biliary colic usually continues until the gallstones causing the pain are gone.

How can I take care of myself?
Follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. To take care of yourself during and after treatment, follow these guidelines:

Lose weight if you are overweight and maintain your ideal weight.
Eat healthy foods that are high in fiber. Avoid fatty foods.
Avoid foods that have caused pains or other symptoms in the past.
If you have gallstones or biliary colic and are taking birth control pills, you may want to ask your doctor if you should use another method of birth control.

What can be done to help prevent biliary colic?
To prevent biliary colic, follow these guidelines:

Avoid foods high in fat.
Read the labels on food packages to learn the ingredients.
Avoid fasting. Long periods of fasting can cause gallstones because the bile stays in the gallbladder too long.


I hope this sheds some light

Cyan

Annie:angel:,
Thank you for your kind words. I am so trying to not look back at my past, and it is so hard, because of so many failures, but I am learning! In my 30 years, I have been given some big blows in my life:shrug:, and like I told you, God only gives us things we can handle. I know from experience. But you and everyone here have given me a renewed look on life, and obstacles come and go. You are a great person, and for that, you will forever be blessed.

Cjunk, Thanks for the swimming idea, I have a very large waistline and that is what I want to get down the fastest. I am so going to find a pool.

Cyan, you amaze me with you thorough account of your daily intake. I wish I can be as diligent as you. You are a strong woman, and I admire you for your dedication. :bravo:

I love the idea of a reunion next year. Sounds great.

Ladies, your are all amazing women and together we make one beautiful group(We are all some hot chicks, I think).
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and I hope to talk to you all real soon.
Keep those scales steady this week! :yikes:
:wave:

Ladies,
I was surfing through the other posts and I came across this saying that someone had on their signature. I really like this and Annie, this is exactly what you were telling me to do.

"The greatest thing you have is the 24 hours you have in front of you. The past is gone, the future is distant. Today you can succeed. Set a goal you can achieve within the next 24 hours."

Also found this site, that tells you cals burned with every exercise imaginable.

Have fun

http://www.caloriesperhour.com/

1 hour of kickboxing is 686 cals burned.... I have a place that I can go to for $5 for 1 hour of kickboxing. I am so there on Saturday morning :jig:

Hello all and good morning...or afternoon, I should say. Today is a good day so far. I went to the gym and did a Step Circuit Class. I always know it's working when I'm dripping sweat. It was great. I went to Subway for Lunch and had a 6 inch veggie sub with cheese and a diet pepsi. :)

I made an appt with the Dr today at 3pm. My specific Dr. is out of the office until Dec. 11th! So, I am seeing a different Dr. in the office. I don't see why she can't treat me and make decisions. She has my history and she is a Doctor, right?! :p

Annie, thanks for the information and advice. I'm planning on being firm and assertive. I don't know what it is, but I always go into the doctor and suddenly I feel like an idiot. NOT TODAY! :nono:

CJunk, your McDonalds story is so familiar. However, the last time I gave into my cravings, I was up all night in pain. We all slip at times. All you can do is pick yourself up and start again. Just like like falling off a horse.

For the first time in a long time, I'm feeling like a health nut kind of person. It's kind of fun. It's turned into a game to see how long I can go without messing up. The reward is how good I feel!
:jig:

Well, I'll post later and tell you how the Dr's appt went. Cross Your Fingers for me!!!!

Lisa:wave:

Tonight I cycled for 35 minutes for a distance of 10 km and burned off 366cals. My total cal consumption for the day was 1576 minus 366 for a total of 1210....total fat grams 44 grams. Fitday is such a nifty little program.

Anyway, I hope everyone is making wise choices...stay strong! Oh Yes, I was triumphant over McDonalds again...I walked by it on my way home...there was a line up today...the craving wasnt as bad as yesterday but McDonalds still whispered every so gently into my ear.

But knowing that I am not alone, that I have my buddies here keeps me on track...thank you so much...I feel that I am not alone...thanks for all your good energy...I send it back to you ten fold.

:grouphug: from the bottom of my heart

Have a good evening and I'll be back to post tomorrow morning as per usual. Somehow posting keeps me honest and motivated...hey whatever works:lol:

Cyan

:wave: Hello everyone!
Great minds think alike, dontcha think? About a week ago, I was thinking how much fun it would be to see each other’s pictures – then I see the same suggestion posted on our list. Yesterday while I was running I was fantasizing about a get together in the future, where we could spend a weekend talking and laughing and generally having a great time. Today I read Cyan’s post suggesting the same thing! Excellent! I say we go for it. Who would think seven people of varying ages, living in 5 different states and 2 different countries would meet and, even better, bond on the internet? Isn’t life great! :dance: By the way, cjunk, Hamilton is in Canada, right?

Lisa – I am so impressed…what a role model! You have this continuing pain and still you do strenuous Step Circuit Class, and then go for a veggie subway.

A late answer to your question from Lady the Nurse: Yes, the substitute doctor can treat you. Doctors can come across as authority figures and make it difficult four us to feel like an intelligent adult. Try to remember you are paying the doctor, thus she works for you. You have the right to her time, the right to ask questions and the right to demand appropriate treatment. You also have the right to find another doctor if the one you are seeing isn’t doing everything possible to make you well. Your job is to be as informed as you possibly can. It will empower you and you will feel more comfortable asking questions. And, by the way, if you don’t understand the answer, ask the doctor to explain it again. Then if you don’t like the answers, ask for more alternatives. You Go Girl! You are entitled to a resolution to your problem.

Cjunk – I think it’s great that you were there for your friend and resisted eating a second dinner. Don’t spend another minute beating your self up. :nono: Let it go. You slipped, you’re human. You are still winning this battle and besides, you didn’t order the super size! Tell you what, if you promise not to feel guilty anymore, I won’t beat myself up over eating that raw pie dough dipped in uncooked pumpkin pie today. Deal? ;) By the way, your new friend sounds awesome.

Annie – You really are determined! I'm so proud of you for being able to continually look for the bright side. I rode the bike 40 minutes for you last night. Hope I didn’t tire you out too much. Heehee.:lol:

Cyan – That info on the gallbladder was excellent. Good job! And like I said earlier, I love the idea of a reunion. What’s in the middle, Chicago? About starting a new thread -. I didn't realize there is a limit on how long a thread can be. On the other hand, a new thread for a new year sounds like a good idea.
Reina-mia - I like that quote very much. I will print it out and paste it to my bathroom mirror as a daily reminder. Thanks. Kickboxing! Sounds like fun! I saw a guy on tv this morning doing a work out using standard boxing punches, jumping and kicking. I tried to follow him for a bit and it was exhausting. I’m going to try to find his show again. He had tapes for sale, but I’m not about to pay $70 for a few tapes.

Miki – How are you doing? We haven’t heard from you for a bit.

I’m sitting here chuckling as I read about each of your trouble spots, and thought I’d add my 2 cents. For me it’s not my waist or my hips or my stomach, though they certainly are ample. I hate my boobs! They are WAY to large. I want very much to join the Itty Bitty Titty Club! :o Every time I resist food I think about getting down to a normal, or even better, a small size bra.

:soap: Soap Box Time: I think we all have the same problem – reliving our regrets instead of giving ourselves credit for our successes. It’s as if our failures – no wait, I don’t like that word- our mistakes are written in big bold letters and our successes are in teeny tiny anyone-could-do-that letters. Well! Time to turn things around, don’t you think?
I challenge each of us each night for a week to write down at least 5 things we did well during the day. Don’t discount anything.Honestly, some days just getting out of bed would make it to the top of my list! This will help us to focus on the positive instead of the negatives. If you like you can post your lists here, but that’s totally optional. What do you think – are you all up to it? :chin: :dancer:

Tomorrow is Turkey Day and I’m going to follow the advice of a very smart lady I know and eat turkey and veggies first.

Take care,
Lady
:grouphug:

LadyRider....you said chicago is most likely the middle for all of us...why dont we all go to the Oprah show!:cp: We can write a letter from all of us...amalgamate it into one letter and send it in..we can ask for tickets...for next fall 2003....we can do this...it would be a hoot! Just an idea...Ladies...I'd like to hear what you think...all ideas on the table please

5 things that I did well today

5. go to work:lol:
4. eat within my range
3. exercise
2. post my thoughts here on this thread
1. hug and kiss my cat Cyan:)

Good night

Cyan

Hi everyone! :) First of all I have to say...altho I only missed last nite posting, I feel like I"ve been away for ages! Ya'll have no idea what a part of my life this is now. When I cant get time to get online, I feel like something is definitely missing. Like someone said earlier... as soon as something happens, I immediately think "Cant wait to get to tell the girls". It is the coolest feeling to know you're all here anytime for any reason.

I dont have time, once again, to address everyone individually. I hate that too because as I read I always have so much I want to add.

I love the "Oprah" idea. I actually came here in the first place after reading in the magazine "First" about 3 women who met on Ediets.com and lost weight together. The magazine a year or so later interviewed them all, flew them to NYC for a makeover, and at that time they all met for the first time in person. They inspired me the way they said they all met each day and not only discussed weight and health issues but life issues as well. They feel as if they are very best friends altho they are all hours and states away from each other. I chose 3FC rather than Ediets because this one was free. lol:lol: I'm glad I did now because there is NO WAY E-diets can be any better than this.:smug:

Yesterday wasnt a great day healthwise. I didnt exercise at all. Instead after supper last nite, hubby and I sat down and spent the nite playing boardgames with the kids. I decided doing that was a valid excuse. They are growing up sooo fast and I hate thinking that soon they wont have as much time for Mom and Dad.:( ( They are 13 and almost 11 )

I did my Air Walker for 35 minutes tonite tho and stayed within my calorie limits. Looking forward to tomorrow but will be thinking of all of you as I eat. I think that will help me not go overboard with it. (Bad thing tho is I have Thanksgiving tomorrow at my Dad's and then Saturday, we have it all over again with my Mom. ) I hope all of you, whether it's Thanksgiving Day to you or not, have a wonderful day!!

I really need to be going now, but one more thing....I have been amazed at all of you lately. Seems that everyone here practically has had some really hard times in life lately, I mean other than the weight issues, things more serious like losing loved ones, medical problems, etc, but everyone of you has such a great attitude and outlook!! Makes me really think when I start feeling sorry for myself about something. I know I sound like a broken record ( you are all old enough to know about records arent ya..hahaha) but every single one of you inspires me every day.THANKS AGAIN SOOOO MUCH!!!!:grouphug:

Good evening ladies. How was everyone's day? The last time I posted, I guess I skipped the last page and hadn't read all of the posts. So, I was a little behind.

Cyan, thank you soooooooo much for the Gall Bladder information. I'm so touched that you found information just for me. It was actually very helpful.

I love the Oprah Idea. I love the reunion idea. This has really become a wonderful group. The pictures really help personalize it and I feel like I know you guys so well. You've all been sooo kind and encouraging. It's really exciting for me!

I went to to the doctor today. The Doctor was very concerned. She ordered some blood tests to test my liver enzymes and do a blood count. She is also having me set up an appt for an ultrasound. She also said I should probably stick to vegetables tomorrow! AAAAARRRRGGGGHHH!!! TOMORROW IS THANKSGIVING!

But...guess what!!??? Okay, In August, I started going to Weight Watchers. I started at 199.5 pounds. Today at the Dr.'s office, I weighed 182.4!!! That's 17 pounds!! WOW. I've been so happy ever since then. I feel great!:bravo:

I also want to apologize. I don't feel like I've been able to respond to everyone. I really want to me more of a motivator, instead of taking from you girls all the time, I would really like to give also. But hopefully soon my schedule will allow me to have more time to sit here. I really need you guys! This group has become very important to me in a very short period of time.

I will try to check in tomorrow to tell you all how I did with Turkey Day!

Lisa

Lisa,
Congratulations on such success with your weightloss. I really hope everything goes well for you with the doctors.

Cyan,
I love the Oprah show idea. Not that it would be a trip for me, considering I live in the heart of Chicago, but guess what, I know all the hip hot, and low-fat places to go in this town:cb:

I have to run and start making my desserts. It is 12:35am and I wanted to start at this time, to make sure I don't munch on them. I figured if I started when I got home from work, I would dig into everything later that evening. See, I am using this noggin for something.

Have a great Thanksgiving ladies,
:grouphug:

Goodmorning Ladies...I can smell all those turkeys in the oven...with glazed carrots and mashed potatoes....pumkin pie...gravy...ahhhh...okay, I'm coming over:lol:

Have a great day everyone...make wise choices and I will see you all back here soon....looking forward to hearing how it all went...what you ate....details...lots and lots of details;)


Talk to you later

Cyan

Ya'll, I am soooo full!! lol I did eat too much but drank water only with my meal and passed up dessert. I did have turkey, dressing, augratin potatoes, mac & cheese, and broccoli/cauliflower salad. Doesnt the broccoli and cauliflower kinda cancel out the starches and cheese?? Hmmm...didnt think so. Oh well, new day tomorrow and I did exercise 20 minutes today before I went to my Dad's. If I get a little less miserable tonite, I plan to do more also. Hope everyone had a great day!!I'll try to post more later.....MIKI :)

Just finished logging all my foods in Fitday. My total calories was 1912! Not great but actually I was expecting them to be much higher so I'm not too disappointed. Burned 200 calories with exercise. I was shocked tho to find out that the broccoli/cauliflower salad ( it has bacon bits, cheese, green onions, and ranch dressing in it) had the highest calories per serving of all that I ate! Soooo...a warning, some foods can fool you. Just because it's a salad or veggies doesnt necessarily mean it's the best choice.

Lisa, dont feel like you need to apologize. I feel the exact same way you do. I GET 100 times more out of this site than what I GIVE. Just like you, I always feel I could be more like the rest of the group. Seems everyone is always encouraging and supporting me more than the other way around.

Cyan....even thinking about smelling all that stuff cooking now makes me wanna be sick! lol It was sooo good at the time tho.

Be back later...if not tonite, for sure tomorrow. Take care everyone!

MIKI :)

As the french say....J'ai la peau de mon ventre bien tendu! Which means....The skin of my stomach is tightly stretched!...all that turkey and side dishes. hmmmm

Anyway, I ate too many calories yesterday...and I didnt even have a turkey feast...I consumed 1845 cals, 57 grams of fat...I exercised for 45 minutes and burned off 466 calories for a distance of 12.6km. so in essence, 1379 calories is what the end total is after the exercises:dizzy:

Thank goodness for the exercising. And, I'm going on a business dinner and its going to be Thai...I love Thai food but I gotta watch out for those coconut green curries that I am so fond of.

Come back and post, post, post...I'm lonely here...Tell me how it all went.

Bye for now

Cyan

You did great girl....1912 calories during a holiday....amazing...I would so be over 2500 cals...easily...and you exercised amidst all that feasting...kudos on you. I think you may be ready to face Christmas and all of its offerings without "buying the farm!"

later
Cyan

Well, I have been reading everyone's post and you are quite a talkative bunch.....which is great! Let me introduce myself:
I am 28yrs old. I am originally from the east coast, Delaware to be exact. My dh and I live in his home country, Taiwan. I have 2 boys ages 4yr and 5months. After having #2, I really didn't lose any weight because I was eating anything in sight. I topped the scales at 210. Well, I went on Herbalife desperate for something to get weight off. After loosing about 6lbs, I just couldn't keep paying the outrageous prices for something that wasn't really teaching about exercise and a healthy eating lifestyle. So, as of November 8th, I was on my own. On the 15th I weighed in at 201.3lbs and Thursday (I weighed in before Thanksgiving meal!) I weighed in at 200.2lbs. I go to a local hospital and use their scale. I have been walking 30min a day for two weeks now. Tonight I upped it to 45 min (and feeling it). My weakest area is the eating. I am not a cook and it seems like everything in Taiwan is fried. I am experimenting and trying to fix salads and all, but am really lazy.
Well, that's me. My first goal is 190lbs by Jan.15th and my future goal is 145lbs by this time next year. After reading alot of success stories, it takes about a year to lose the weight I need to. Well, a year to do it right.

Hope to join in more in the future.

Cyan, thanks for the compliments but altho it wasnt as bad as I expected, I was miserable!! I'm not used to eating that much anymore, well at least not that kinda heavy foods, and couldnt even get to sleep last nite. Hope I learned my lesson since we have Thanksgiving #2 tomorrow with my Mom. Also have company coming over tonite to munch and play games. My real weakness is chips and dip so tonite will probably be more of a challenge than yesterday was. Cross your fingers for me lol

Taiwan...WELCOME:) Always good to meet someone new. I know you'll love this group. Very supportive and encouraging so drop in anytime!! I've been amazed at the help they give me.

Well about time for the company to get here so better run.

Be back tomorrow!!!

MIKI:cool:

Hello all! How is everyone? I am doing GREAT! Let's see.....Yesterday was Thanksgiving. I got up at about 8am and began my cooking. I baked a Maple Pecan Pumpkin Cheesecake and frozen corn with cream cheese. (That was my food assignment). The kids and hubby and I started out on our 30 minute trip to Great Grandma and Great Grandpa's house, except as we turned onto the highway, the crock pot of corn toppled over and creamed corn was all over the floor of our van. We headed back home, cleaned out the crock pot, put our Pot Bellied Pig, Hamlet, in the van to clean up the corn put a towel over the mess, bought some more corn anc cream cheese and started again. :dizzy:

Once at their house, I also made a fruit salad with bananas, apples, pineapple, oranges and passion fruit, no fat vanilla yogurt, pecans, mini marshmallows, and nutmeg. YUMMY!

Before dinner I went for a walk. About 15 minutes at a casual pace. Just enough to get my blood moving. Dinner was at 3:30 and I filled my plate only once. I ate whatever looked good and only had one helping. About 20 minutes after dinner, I had 1/4 of a piece of cheese cake and a small helping of a pumpking cake. About 45 minutes later, I went on another walk, which was my favorite part of the day. The sun was just setting and the geese and ducks were flying overhead. Their property is out in the country with a lake and beautiful trees and you can see for miles. The sky was so blue and there was that streak of pink you see as the sun goes down. It was a very peaceful and spiritual experience. So that walk served more of than one purpose. I will always remember that.

Anyway, I was done eating completely for the whole day by 7pm. There was snacking after dinner but not after 7pm.

This morning, I got up at 5:20 and went SHOPPING! It was great. I went to JC Penney's and Sears...then to Target....then to a bookstore. Then, I went to the gym. I had my gym clothes with me and I did a great 90 minute step/body defined class. It was AWESOME! Then, went home, had a slim fast, showered, got ready and went shopping some more. I'm about 90% done with my Christmas Shopping. Cool!:bravo:

Then, I went to donate my platelets, but my hematocrit was too low. What's up with that????

Okay, enough about me.

Taiwan....Welcome! I am excited to get to know you better. This group has been such a blessing to me. Soon, I hope you will feel as close to these ladies as I do.

Cyan, I hope that was enough details for you. You said you wanted lots of details about our Thanksgiving.

Well, that's all for now. My hubby is behing me slobbering and starving for food. We're going to Furr's. Wish me luck!:lucky:

Hope to hear from all of you soon!

Lisa:moo:

Well...tonight I went out for Thai....yikes ...yep...shrimp green curry..which is made with coconut milk and a fried battered banana for desert...:o It totalled to 1935 cals consumed today. So I had to exercise extra tonight...I walked home from the restaraunt...it took me 45 minutes in the snow...Its been snowing all day..so there is an accumulation on the floor to dredge through and then once I got home, I cycled for 30 minutes for a distance of 8.3km and burned off 305 calories for a total of 609cals burned...so total cals for today is 1326.

I wouldnt have to exercise so much if I could just stick to a 1500 cal consumption...I'll keep trying.:lol:

Lisa...looks like your thanksgiving day was amazing...the walk seems magical the way you described it.

Welcome Taiwan...looking forward to getting to know you

Hey Miki...I wish I could get used to eating less...I send you strength to resist the chips and dip...keep the faith;)

Annie, Cjunk, Reina, LadyRider and Precious...I miss you guys...come back ..please....:goodvibes

K...dont forget to post all of your details...:)

bye

Cyan

Hi Everyone! :wave: I'mmmm Baaaaack! It's been a couple of days and I've missed you all. As I was catching up on all your posts and smiling, I was singing "We are f a m i l y.... Me and my sisters and me." :)

I had an excellent Thanksgiving! I ran in the morning, and then we went to my son and daughter-in-laws for dinner in the afternoon where there was much laughing, eating, and merry making.
The Menu: pre-dinner: spiced pecans, chips and spicy Peruvian dip. Dinner: Turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, corn, broccoli salad, cinnamon croissant rolls, Hawaiian rolls, wine, pumpkin, apple and cherry pies with ice cream or whip cream.
I did very well - kind of, sort of....pretty much. I had small helpings of turkey, potatoes, gravy, corn, and broccoli salad. 2 croissant rolls and 1 Hawaiian roll. I had sparkling grape juice instead of wine and two pieces of pumpkin pie. No ice cream. I figured pumpkin pie works as two vegetables, right? All the portions were small and I didn't get stuffed at all. In fact I was hungry later that night and had another slice of vegetable. ;) When I weighed my self the next morning I hadn't gained at all, and this morning I was down a pound. Yea!

Miki - You have your priorities right. Spending time with your kids is so important. That's quality time they will remember the rest of their lives. And, by the way, you do contribute. You and Lisa are both a very important part of this group!
Lisa - CONGRATULATIONS!! 17lbs is a major loss. :D I loved the pot bellied pig cleaning up the car for you - just picturing it made me laugh out loud. Fruit salad is one of my favorite things, and you recipe sounds wonderful. I'm going to try it for Christmas.
I also hit the stores by 6am to get a Christmas tree at half price. What an experience! All those people grabbing for the Blitz Bargains - It was not a pretty sight! But I did get the tree. :lol:
Taiwan - WELCOME! Hope to see you here lots. You sound like you are on your way, girl. You have chosen the right way to change your life and it's working all ready! Keep coming back and let us know about your progress and we'll be here to help you through the rough spots. Ok?
Rein_Mia - You are a stitch. :dizzy: I can't believe you started fixing your desserts at 12:30am! How did they turn out? Did you're plan work - did you eat them?
Cyan - I love the Oprah idea. Let’s set a date, write that letter and see where it takes us. This is going to be GREAT! By the way, my son was looking over my shoulder, saw your picture and asked me who the pretty girl was. :love:
I was really exhausted this afternoon, so I took a 2 hr nap. When I woke up it was cool and crisp and inviting outside, so I just had to get out and go running. So, here I am running down this quiet country road, the sky is a beautiful clear blue, the air is crisp and I'm feeling so good that I stopped right there in the middle of the road to say a prayer of gratitude.

What I did right today:
Ran
Ate healthy
Hugged a friend
Laughed a lot
Read your posts!
Cjunk, Annie, Come and check in. We miss you!

:grouphug:
Lady

Lisa - Low hematacrit (percentage of red blood cells in the blood) is frequently caused by blood loss or anemia; are you taking Folic Acid? This is not anything to worry about, but it wouldn't hurt to keep an eye on it. A multivitamin with iron will usually take care of the problem.

Lady

Its Saturday...and its shopping day for me...yay! I'm going out to buy a good weight scale and a heart monitor...I want to make sure I reach and stay within my heart rate when I exercise...might as well make the most of it:D

LadyRider....I feel the same way you do. I think this group just rocks to the nth degree. Yes, lets write this letter to Oprah....how about if we each write a section of the letter introducing ourselves and how we feel about our group, what we get from this group and what we give back to the group. Then, once all who want to participate have done their little bit, we will send it off my email or snail mail ...or both :lol: to Harpo Productions...asking for tickets..for next fall...like september or october 2003. Reina_Mia lives in Chicago...and I think she has already offered to be our tour guide!! Yay! I will sit down sometime this week and write out my part and then I will post it here on this thread....Lets give this a deadline...lets say by Jan 5th 2003...all of us interested in the Oprah Meeting...post your letter here on this thread by the 5th of Jan 2003, then I will cut and paste into one big letter and email it to Harpo Productions!

So does this sound like a doable and good idea? Let me know.
Ok then, I'm off to spend some cash:s:

Cyan

Hi all :) Just got back from Thanksgiving dinner #2 and I am soooo full!!! Don't even feel like typing much. Going to stretch out a little and will be back later tonite to post more details. Just wanted to check in! ( Guess I didnt learn my lesson Thursday)

Well...today I ate McDonalds...yep big mac with small fries and a chocolate milk shake...yep :yikes: :sp:yep yep...I consumed a total of 1940 calories and 77 grams of fat. But...I also exercised for one hour and burned of 730 calories for a distance of 12.5km:cp: so the grand total is 1210 after exercising.

I gotta get back down to 1500 cals...also I lost another 1/2 inche around my hips...slowly but surely:lol:

Ok Ladies...hope to hear from you soon cause I miss you guys.

Miki...I have the same learning problem...I think its a short term memory thing...but its the holidays...keep trying

later girls

Cyan

Hello girls! It's Saturday night. Our Thanksgiving vacation is gradually coming to an end. However, it's been very enjoyable. Today, although I didn't exercise, I got quite a bit done....once I got out of bed at about 9:15am. hmmmm.:o With my hubby's help we set up a bed in the toy room, making it a bedroom for my daughter. Her and my son have been sharing a bed and I think it's time we seperate them...so they can learn responsibility and cleanliness. They are each responsible for their own room...keeping it clean...etc. Also, yesterday I spent nearly $300 getting them new bedroom suits for Christmas.

I also went through all my kids' clothes and filled a huge box with items that are too small for them. Their drawers and closets are so much more organized now! It's wonderful. I swept both rooms and divided up who gets what toys...etc.

We cleaned out our laundry/utility room that was turning into quite the storage area. It was horrible.

Anyway, I got a lot done.

I started off my eating this morning with an apple and some fat free caramel sauce....a total or 4 WW points. I had 1 1/2 grilled cheese sandwiches for lunch....not so good, but not horrible right?
For Dinner I had Taco Bell's Chicken Quesadilla and a taco. I'm regretting that because now I'm hurting. I'm really anxious to get those test results from the Doctor on Monday. If this isn't my gall bladder...I don't know what it could be.

I love the Oprah letter idea. I'm glad we have that much time to think about what we should write. That is exciting!

:cool:

Lady Rider, your Thanksgiving sounds great. You are so active and full of energy. I really can't wait to meet you some day!!! You are so cool!!!:dancer:

Cyan, you are really good at burning those calories. You motivate me! I tend to take the weekends off, exercise wise. However when I don't exercise, I don't eat as healthy...what's up with that?

Well, I might check in tomorrow, but for sure on Monday. See you all soon!

Lisa

Well, it's Sunday here (we are 13hours ahead of EST) and we just finished church. Saturday was a good day I think. Man, you all are good at counting calories, I am not that disciplined. Yesterday for breakfast I had a black bean drink (don't ask, I bought it here in Taiwan, it's a Chinese thing) and it has 135calories. Lunch, well, youth group was decorating the church (on first floor, we live on second) and all they left me was the herb biscuits from KFC--though that's probably good that's all they left. Dinner, I made a salad and dressing (a biggy for me as I am not the cook). Salad had 3 pieces of ham, 3pieces of cheese both sliced into thin slices. As well as 3 eggs and carrots and cucumbers and I used cabbage ( I think) . I didn't eat it all, just a small bowl. The dressing I used low fat mayo and milk added garlic powder, oregano and salt. Tasted as close as I will get to ranch dressing here.
I walked for 45 min. yesterday (a total of 1.5miles) plus worked on abs and thighs (and boy am I feeling it!!!!!).
So that was my Saturday. The weather is hot again here (we don't get below freezing here) must be in mid to high 70's.

Remember: Little snacks make big slacks!!

Hi again:)

LadyRider...glad to see you back! Congrats on not gaining anything this week. I am too scared to check. I"m going to just work extra hard and not weigh again until next Sunday. That way I wont be discouraged. I REFUSE to eat another huge meal now until Christmas. Oh, by the way, I hit that same crazy 6am sale you did. People are absolutely CRAZY that time of morning. lol. I got what I went after tho. ( a basketball goal for my son, $30 less than reg price)

Lisa...wow, you had such a productive day! That's something I should do before Christmas. The kids have so much stuff already it's hard to find a place for new things they get. I bet you burned lots of calories doing all that.

Cyan...Lisa is right. Even when you do go over on your calories, you're a whiz at doing what needs to be done to get rid of them! I always think of you when I'm exercising. I feel like you're the "leader of the pack" in that aspect.

Taiwan...it's not that we are so good at counting calories. It's just that we have found a site that calculates them for us. Go to Fitday.com and check it out. It is sooo cool! Cyan told me about it and now I use it regularly to keep track of what I eat and how many calories I burn. Your salad sounded yummy especially after all the heavy foods I ate today. ( not sure about that black bean drink tho.lol) I laughed about the "little snacks". I need to remember that saying!

Well except for eating too much and not exercising, today was a good day. Went to my mom's and had Thanksgiving lunch #2. I have 3 younger sisters and they were all there along with spouses and kids. Also my mom's 3 sisters, a neighbor and her grown son, and several of my cousins. A houseful. My little niece, Kaylen, who is the daughter of my youngest sis who is 24, was sooo cute!! She spent the nite with us last nite all by herself for the first time. She will be 2 in March. Today, the weather was perfect and she spent most of it running thru and getting buried in piles of leaves. We had a blast playing with her. After everyone left, we came home and laughed again as we watched it all on video. To be a carefree little girl again! lol

Well, I am exhausted. Been an extra busy week and I think I'm about to head to bed. Gonna try to make myself crawl out of bed in time for church in the morning but I'm so tired, I better get in bed soon if I'm going to make it.

Great hearing from all of you!! Cjunk, Precious One, WI_wide, Annie, Reina, I miss ya'll!! Hope you get back soon!!

Nite all :yawn:

MIKI

Hello Everyone!


Been busy this morning reading all of the postings! What a great thanksgiving everyone had! And all of you did so well at combining great eats with exercise and still working towards your goals. My we are an amazing group!!

Yesterday I swam for 45 straight minutes of lengths! I think that was a lot of calories burned but I am not sure. What website is it that can tell me this?

Today I am meeting my girlfriend for an exercise bonanza--we are going to spin class for 1hour and then Hatha relaxation yoga to stretch afterwards for a 1 hour class. That should allow me to eat a bit of junk this weekend for some eating enjoyment!! I hope I can make it through the spin as she says it is a deadly class. It has been a long time since I have been on a bike. I'll be thinking of you girls!

I like the Oprah idea--I will think up my posting for it. I also think that we should figure out how much we have all lost together before submitting it so that we can add to the letter a total loss of inches and/or pounds. If each one of us added our totals up and put it at the top of our letters that would work well---what do you think?

Cyan, I think it is awesome that you eat and then burn it off when you recognize you have had too much. It seems that I have hit a plateau at this time and maintaining will be my challenge--probably until the New Year. That is as good a goal as any since I have figured out that I lost about 10 pounds and at least 5 inches all over the place since I started. Like all of us I wouldn't have been able to do it without all of you!

Miki and Lisa--keep up the great work. It sounds like all of your planning is paying off and that results keep coming! We all support each other and I know we do it together.

LadyRider--I have no idea how you skipped pumpkin pie--you are my inspiration!!! It sounds like your holidays were also a success.

Taiwan--Welcome and post as often as you like! We are a chatty bunch here and everyone is so supportive that you are bound to find results. I think you are right that a slower weight loss is better because you are bound to keep it off over time.

Gotta go workout! Can you believe I am leaving my house at 8:30 am to head to the gym??? (and its not even my gym!).

Cjunk

Hi,
I missed you ladies! I've been sick but much better now. I don't have much time right now but wanted to say hello. Hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving.

Talk to you all soon :grouphug:

Hello everyone. How are all this morning? I'm okay but having some cramping....HMMMM.

Today is the first Sunday of the month and so, as a Mormon, I am fasting. Usually, I end up overcome with GB pain, but I will still give it a try. I will break my fast at about 5:30. Church is from 1:00 till 4:00 and then it's Choir Practice until 4:45. (I can't skip that...I'm the director)

Well, It's officially December!!! Tomorrow night for Family Night we're putting up the tree and all the decorations. My hubby refuses to put up Christmas Lights outside, so I think I may attempt it.:^:

Precious One! Glad to see you back! I was worried we had lost you. I'm sorry you've been sick and I'm glad you're feeling better!

Taiwan, it's wonderful that you've decided to stay with us!

Have a great day everyone!
Lisa:wave:

I got up very early this sunday morning...had to go for a gum taste testing survey that lasted for 3 hours...3 hours of tasting gum...I got 60 bucks for it...and I think another 10 bucks in the mail...to come.

Anyway, yesterday I said I had cycled for 12.3km..no it was for a total of 20.3:D I got confused....:lol:

Today, I've just walked outside...did a little christmas shopping and ate a smoked meat sandwich. I have a chicken roasting in the oven...hmmmm dinner

Glad to see everyone coming back to post. I just love it here..you girls are the best...Taiwan...are you joining us on our pre-newyears challenge...which is to maintain our weight loss and lose if possible. The more the merrier

Annie...hope you are well and I miss your posts:?: come back real soon.

Well, ladies...feeling a little low energy write now...will post later if not tomorrow..I send everyone a big hug and a bigger thanks for being part of this wonderful group

Cyan

Well, here's my report for the day:

I ended up going to the gym for that time with my friend. Spin class was extra hard and I have to say that I had the tension much lower than they were asking but not completely off and I did make it through the whole hour so I am proud of myself. Yoga afterwards was great for stretching.

Went out for vietnamese noodle soup after and for the first time ate the whole bowl!!!

Then I went home and had a nap!! I slept like a baby!! Man does that ever tire you out.

So all in all I am happy that I made it through because I was worried that I wouldn't.

Cyan and Annie (where are you Annie???), I don't know how you ride your bikes for so long because those spin bikes are harder than heck!

Precious One, glad to see that you are back! I am sorry that you weren't feeling well---there has been a virus going around. It is great to hear from you.

Lisa, your day sounds wonderful with the Christmas plans and choir. I love to sing ---and by the way it is also good exercise because of all of the diaphragm breathing! Enjoy your day and I hope that your cramps don't get in the way too much. Periods can be tough for me too---especially around cravings so I can identify.

I went to fitday.com and the activity calculator didn't seem to work correctly so I was unable to calculate how much burned. Anyone know of another site I could go to?

Cyan, I am so smelling that chicken roasting in your oven. Enjoy your evening and hope to hear from you again tomorrow.

By for now all, By the way...LadyRider, Reina-Mia and Annie, how was your day??

Cjunk

Hello everyone! :)
It’s Sunday, and all the company have gone home and the celebrating is over for now. I have a confession to make, cjunk. I did eat the pumpkin pie – three pieces! Maybe my joke about eating it as a vegetable confused you. I left the leftover pie at my daughter – in – laws Thursday and swore I wouldn’t eat any more. We went out to dinner Friday and I did very well, grilled fish, gilled mushrooms, yellow squash and a salad. But when we got home my daughter and son said they had the munchies and there was nothing good to eat in the house – so they made TWO PUMKIN PIES!! I was a goner. I ate pie that night and all day Saturday. Gained 2 lbs on the scale. Ugh! And here my husband had been bragging about me all weekend. I felt so guilty!!
But today is another day. I jogged the entire 2 miles this morning without a rest – a personal best! :joker: I’m back to eating right, measuring and recording everything and I’m determined to lose another pound this week.

Hey Cyan! I’d go to a gum tasting survey for $60 bucks. Talk about easy money, but I’ll bet your jaws are tired. Hey, does that count as another exercise session?

Lisa, I admire your ability to fast, especially with GB pain. And, you can sing! I’ll bet people don’t ask YOU to stop when you sing out loud like they do me! You certainly accomplished a lot this weekend - Doesn’t it feel great to get organized? Thanks for the kind words. I can’t wait to meet you in person too.

Precious One! Welcome back! I hope you feel better soon; we’ve really missed your posts.

Cjunk – Wow! You are a virtual exercise machine! Congrats on the 10 lbs and 5 inches Keep it up girl and you will meet your goal in no time at all. I agree, putting our totals at the top of our letters, and then the accumulated total on the letter to Oprah is an excellent idea.

Miki – Your second Thanksgiving sounds wonderful. Don’t cha love those big family get togethers? And your niece sounds adorable. It’s great you thought to tape it; she will love seeing it when she’s older and so will you!

Taiwan – Congratulations on the walking and working out! It’s got to be hard to adjust to the food in a foreign country. We take for granted the foods we have here in our home land. Boy I really needed that Little Snacks Big Slacks reminder. Thanks!

Annie, we miss you. Hope you’re ok.

My husband and I are going up to visit relatives in Illinois and Minnesota from December 4th -11th. I will try to run while we’re gone, but the eating part is going to be really tough. I won’t have internet access, either, so I won’t be able to post again until I get back. I will keep thinking about you all posting and succeeding. Hopefully, that will be enough to keep me strong.
:wave:

Well, today is Monday. My Sunday went pretty well I think. Still aren't sure about adding these calorie things as some of the food we eat here, I am not sure about (or what exactly to call it:D ) Breakfast I was having a black bean breakfast drink (135calories) but didn't finish it all as I was rushing around for Sunday school. Lunch was noodles here, tofu and veggies. For dinner, we went to a special dinner for fosterparents (I am the only blonde hair blue eyed person in the ENTIRE room:lol: ) and had our picture taken with the governor. I did very well. Before we left I had some of my salad and a diet Coke I took a bottle of water (I did fulfill my 2liters of water and even had and extra 500cc) with me as I knew I would drink too much juice and all at the meal. There was a buffet. All I had was a few slices of bread and some cantelope and watermelon. Though I have to admit I had one piece (it was like 1in x 2in) piece of the most delicious chocolate cake and a thin slice of ice cream cake. But I thought over all I did well. I specifically ate a salad before we left so I wouldn't over do it.
At night my 14yr old fosterteen and I went walking for 45min (1.5miles). I needed to talk with her anyway and it was a great time. Just us two,so I know it was special to her. Didn't do my abs and thighs though, will today.

Hope you all have a great week. Hey I will join the New Year resolution. You say it's to lose weight and keep it off? My goal!!! Wow, I see alot of you are really into exercise. If we had a gym here, I would definetly be going. I used to go to one when we lived in another town (8hours away!) and I just loved the treadmill and all the weights. My arms are just flabby. I need to get some videos and start a routine of some sort. What an inspiration you all are.


Remember--Little snacks make big slacks

Hello ...me again...well I just exercised for 25 minutes for a distance of 7.3km and burned off 340 cals..yep its my day off from serious exercise plus its my time of the month ;) Total cals consumed was 1501 minus the 340 for a total of 1161. Not bad but my fat grams are high at 76 grams:o

Yeesh! I gotta get those fat grams down...I know..I'm looking into tweeking my food choices.

Girls stay on track...we can do it..we are strong healthy women of determination...hear us roar!

Be back tomorrow

yuck...its monday

Hey Taiwan...how much weight are you looking to lose an what is your regime?

PreciousOne...so glad youre back

LadyRider..I'm gonna miss your posts while you are gone but am happy you will be having a fun trip. You inspire me with your running...I'm intimidated my endurance running...ugh!

Cjunk the chicken was delicious! And kudos on taking that spin class..I once watched a class in session and people were sweating buckets...very very impresive you are...just for making it. Your determination keeps me exercising.

Lisa...wow! how do you feel when you fast? And whats GB pain?:?:

Cjunk....
Big hug to everyone

Cyan:grouphug:

:lol: :dizzy: :lol: :dizzy:
I am sitting here falling out laughing at myself and feeling like an idiot! I clicked on "Post reply" as I always do after reading everyone's current post and for some reason accidentally arrowed down. Wowww..what do ya know?? Right there at the bottom of the page is everyone's last post!! I never knew they were there!! That's why it takes me FOREVER to type my replies because I have to keep going back and forth between 2 windows or I type it in MSWorks and then paste it here. I never knew I could see them as I replied! That is just so cool...should be much easier now. lol

Cjunk, sounds like you did great with the exercise this weekend! (and leaving at 8:30 a.m...I am sooo impressed!!)I wish there was an indoor pool around here somewhere but unfortunately there's not and it's too cold now for outdoor swimming. Cant afford to join a gym, especially with Christmas coming up, so for now I guess I'll have to stick with my exercise at home. Didnt do so great with it over the weekend but plan to get up early tomorrow to get it in before work.

PreciousOne...so sorry to hear you've been sick but glad you're feeling better! Just jump back in....we've missed ya.

Lisa... wanna come and help me when you finish your outdoor lights?? My hubby won't go to the trouble either and my youngest son has always wanted them. We did get our tree up and decorated tonite tho. I think it's our prettiest one yet. :)
Ummm..like Cyan I didnt know what GB pain was either but I just happened to think...did you mean Gallbladder pain?? If so, I KNOW how hard it has got to be for you to get things done. I had my gallbladder removed a few yrs ago. Unlike most tho, I did not have a minute's trouble til it just woke me up early one morning, I was taken to the ER, and ended up that week with emergency surgery. Drs couldnt believe I had never had any pain before then. I thought I was having a heart attack, it hurt so bad. The first dr. I saw sent me home saying I had acid reflux or something and just gave me something for pain. He said it would knock me out. By 6 pm when the pain hadnt lessoned one bit, I went back to the hospital and this time, another dr. was there and did an ultrasound and x-rays and said my gall bladder was in the worst shape of any he'd ever seen. I was shocked.

Cyan, what a unique Sunday you had. I never knew anyone who was a gum taster. lol I wonder how many calories that burned. I bet more than we would expect.

Lady...dont be too discouraged. I bet I've gained too but I refuse to look. Just do extra good from now til the 4th to get a head start on getting back on track. Gone a whole week..we'll really miss hearing from you! But I'm sure you'll have a blast. You seem to have fun in whatever you do. That's a good trait to have.

Taiwain...I bet you do get noticed in gatherings there huh? I could just picture you there with your blonde hair. Good for you planning ahead and taking water with you to the dinner. How long have you lived in Taiwan and how did you happen to end up there? Sounds interesting. I can't imagine doing something like that. I bet it is a really educational experience. Do you just have the one foster child? My parents were fosterparents when I was young. It was hard because we got so attached to the kids, especially when it was a baby. I wasnt quite so thrilled when it was someone my own age...there was that jealous thing going on. :( It's wonderful that you are giving of yourself that way.

Well, better run for now. I need to iron for tomorrow. ( Cyan, my sentiments exactly..Monday..yuckkkkk) Let's all try to make it a good one, Monday or not. Cant wait to hear from you all tomorrow. Bye for now....MIKI

Good evening Ladies,
I am back, and ready to go. Okay I have read all the replies and I am astounded at you all. You all kept your momentum and worked out and counted calories. I love this group! I did have a very stress-less weekend and I enjoyed every minute of it. I wish I could say that I was as good at you Cyan, and counted my calories, but I probably would have just been better off, counting the calories that I didn't eat. :o, It would have looked better on paper......

I am glad to see that everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday.
Cyan, yes, McDonalds did call my name one more time this weekend... But you amaze me at working it off woman!:strong:

Taiwan, Welcome to the group. I am sure you will find the best support in the world right here. These women can give you everything you need to keep on track and stay strong. Glad to have you aboard. Look forward to talking.

PreciousOne, sorry to hear you have been feeling under the weather. I hope you get that energy back.

I have to say my dessert being made at 12:30am Thursday morning, was a hit that night. It was all done and I was in bed by 2:30.:devil:
Now, just because I thougth ahead to making it so late, so I wouldn't munch, doesn't mean that it didn't hit these lips anytime from Thursday afternoon, until now. :fr:
Yeah, yeah, I know, but I just had a little.

Well ladies, after careful consideration I have decided to put a hold on joining Curves. I know I am determined seeing that I have been on track for over a month now, but that is just too much pressure on me... So, I spent a few dollars this weekend and bought the Walk Away the pounds videos by Leslie Sansone and will work with those for the next month. I have read some good things about it, so I am going to give it a try.

Well, I don't have much time, and I wanted to get something in, so you didn't think i fell off the face of the earth.

Have a great Monday and a Blessed day.

Well, ladies I have some questions. First about eating at night, like before bed. When I was on Herbalife, they had a rule about not eating 4hours before going to bed. So, does anyone know a rule to go by? what happens if you get hungry? I mean, if I eat at like 7 pm, I usually need a snack or something before dinner. People say, drink a glass of water and wait 30min, well, I am starving by then. So, any ideas or advice?

Lady_Rider, yes, it's hard to adjust to the foods here. I mean, I don't get it why the Chinese can eat 1-2bowls of rice for 2meals a day, plus all the fried food and still be so small. Quite annoying actually. Seems like I just look at Chinese food and gain 2lbs!!! I am trying to control it though. I have started making a salad and keeping it in the fridge and just having a salad at night for dinner.

MikiG, we currently only work with girls and the ones we have now are 14yr and 16yr. Both have been here exactly a year. The 16yr old is going home after Christmas. I will miss her since she is like a little sister to me. Our biological children are 4yr and 5months (both boys). We will probably take boys in someday, but right now we are working with teens and preteen girls. There are only 2 other homes that take in older kids, the rest get sent out of county. Really sad. Our 16yr doesn't want to go home at all. There have been times where I'm like "Lord, I am only 28yrs old, I don't need the stress of teenage girls!" but usually we are all ok. I have started graying!!! Stress.

Well, I know many are wondering..... my wonderful husband is native Taiwanese (aka--aborigine--similiar to American Indian, actually look very much like Indians). He is 9years older than me. I met him while I did a short term missions trip here right before my senior year of college. God just let things fall in place after that. I won't say it's been exactly easy having a husband of a different nationality, but I married him for him, not for his nationality. Would I do it again? in an instant. So that's us in a nutshell. I have officially lived in Taiwan for 7 years now(yes, I came back here right after college). Wouldn't change a thing.

Well, I am really glad I found this list. Have a great day.


Little snacks make big slacks

Oh, I guess I forgot to answer one of Cyan's questions. I am now at 200.2lbs (as of Nov. 15th) I journey at 210lbs end of Sept. using herbalife until October 20something, on my own for a month now)Maybe I should write it like this:
Sept. 210lbs/94.8kg (started herbalife)
Nov. 15 201.3lbs/91.8kg (started exercising/serious)
Nov. 28 200.2lbs/91kg

Now if my conversions are wrong, someone please let me know. My target weight/weight I should be is 63-65kg/139lb-143lb. I am shooting for 140lbs. WOW!!!! That makes it look impossible.

I come from a family that is all overweight. I am the smallest! My younger sister (by 3 years) is almost 300lbs. I can blame alot on my two kids;-) I want to lose weight for health reasons, I don't have any health problems and would like to avoid them if at all possible. Plus, we'd like number #3 sometime down the road. I don't want to add yet another 40lbs onto my current weight!!!

As for regime, I don't have any. Actually, it's only since I started here that I've actually been looking at my calories. I have considered Susanne Sommers and maybe the zone diet. Really not sure. My husband will probably kill me if I buy another food book. Though he is suprised I've stayed with it for this long--a record for me. If anyone has any suggestions or tips, please let me know. I am not a cook at all so that is a problem for me. I have started keeping a diary in a spiral notebook as well.

Well, I could go on, but you all get the pix.

Well, my monday hasn't started off too good. I went to the gym all pumped up to do a Cardio Combat Class but the instructor never showed. ARGH! So, I just couldn't find it in me to motivate myself to do it on my own on the treadmill and stuff, so I burned 70 cals and came home. However, I do plan on working really hard today with Christmas decorations.

Taiwan, I try not to eat anything after about 6:30 or so. If you are really starving (or think you are;) ) you should try a small handful of nuts or a spoonful of peanut butter. Let me tell you why...or at least what I've been told by my doctor. When you eat a carbohydrate too close to bed time...You don't burn it off with normal daily activity and so overnight, you store it as FAT! So reach for a protein. Not fruit or pasta. I hope your choices are not too limited there. I hope that helped.

Reina Mia, glad to see you. Don't worry, over Thanksgiving, we all did a little over indulging!:lol: I think you made a wise choice about Curves...not that it wouldn't be a great program, but when money is tight, it's best to be frugile. You do sound motivated and that's great! Let me know how those videos are. I need some good videos.

MikiG, WOW about your gallbladder! yes, I did mean gallbladder pain. I was up all night Last Saturday and part of Sunday with heart attack like pain. I thought I was going to die. I almost went to the ER but I figured it was Acid Reflux and they would send me home and then my insurance wouldn't cover it because it wasn't a medical emergency. That's horrible how insurance works. Anyway, I'd had pain before but not like that and I've been to the doctor and the ER and I've had an ultrasound done also, but they never found anything. Now I have a new doctor and after last weekends incident I went in and I hope to hear from them today with some test results and to set up an ultrasound. Everything points at my gallbladder. If they don't find anything, I don't know what to do. I've become afraid to eat! (which might not be a bad thing for me!) If you have any helpful advice about treatment or what the doctors should test for, let me know!!!

Precious One....I know your out there! Stop in and let us know how you're doing! We miss you!

Lady, we will miss you while you're gone, but have a GREAT time! We will be thinking of you also.

Cjunk, I need you to come exercise with me! How lucky you are to have a workout buddy!

Annie, where are you? Hope you're okay and hope to see you soon!

Havent' gotten off to a good start today eating wise or exercise wise, but now I'm motivated and ready to go! Thanks y'all!:^:

bye for now:balloons:

Lisa--I had heard something similiar to what you heard. But as for fruit, I've heard that citrus is good (somebody correct me if I am wrong) because it takes more energy for your body to digest? Make sense? I think I heard if from something similiar to negative calorie type thing.
I'd be pretty preturbed if the instructor didn't show up. At least you got sometime in. I have heard that insurance in the states is pathetic. We are spoiled here with national insurance. Like when I had my first son here (4yrs ago), natural w/epidural and spent 3days in the hospital, the total bill was-----$300US!! yep, that's all. now our second, I am not sure because the dr. figured we needed some financial being my dh is a pastor and we are fosterparents (of course knowing that I came to the clinic and the last week of check up on our 50cc scooter because our car was broken probably made us look pathetic), but the dr. paid for everything. Well, it's his clinic so he could afford it, but it was very nice of him. It only costs like $3.50US for a dr visit and 3 days of medicine. Pretty nice isn't it:-)

Hi, Taiwan...this is a very good info site full of information to get you started http://www.fatlosstips.com Take a good read of what this guy has to say...its makes lots of sense and it has started me off well on my health journey.

I dont eat anything after 8pm....and after 7, if I am hungry...I do what Lisa says...I have peanut butter or some other form of protein. Fruits, depending on which kind are high in sugars and carbs...you dont really want that late in the evenings before going to bed.

K gotta get back to work

Cyan

Good Morning everyone,
I am ready to get back on track and have a nice dent in my scale on Thursday Night....
Are you with me ladies???:dizzy:
I am consuming large quantities of water this week, because of the lack of water that I had this weekend.
And Walk away the pounds is waiting for me at home tonight.

Taiwan,
Our goal weights almost the same, at first I thought Wow, there is no way that I could hit 150, but after meeting all these women here, I have come to realize that nothing is impossible. My sister and I are completely different, she is 5'8" and very thin, and I am 5'0" and very wide! Everyone has some great tips for a regimen, I couldn't exercise before I came to this group, now I have a regimen and I love it. I tried to read through all the past posts, but I don't know if anyone told you about our New Year's Challenge that is going on right now?
We have all posted our measurement and weight and are challenging to maintain until New Year's. Not necessarily lose, but if that happens, Hooray!, but we just want to maintain during the Holiday seasons..
Hope you are in for this challenge, it is great motivation...
As far as eating at night, I try not to, but I have had some bad cravings for chocolate at night, but now I have roasted veggies in my fridge so I warm a few up and nibble with some Ms. Dash...
Lisa, I am sorry to hear you are feeling yucky. My husband had a test done that put dye in his gallbladder to test to see what the output was. That is how they figured out it wasn't functioning. I hope they find something out for you. I will let you know if I see a difference with my new tapes.

Taiwan, I think you have it made out there for medical purposes. I pay $112 a month for my Asthma medicine, because my insurance won't cover it right now. US Insurances is very crappy...

Cjunk, what am I missing out on Fitday, I can't seem to use it properly. Is it really that good. I guess I am going to have to go back and check it out.
Can anyone recommend a great calorie counter book, I have used caloriescount.com, but I just don't think they are as thorough as they say they are, which really blows, considering you can only tell once you join and pay the $24.
But I would like a handy little guide. Can anyone recommend one.

Big hug for everyone.
:grouphug:

hi, I just came upon your site and it seems there is alot of positive support. I started a challenge to lose 30 pounds by March and have some buddies willing to take on the challenge. Is anyone interested here?

Welcome Debee...us ladies over here already have a challenge ...it started the week before thanksgiving and will end
the day after new years...its called the pre-newyears resolution challenge...it involves maintaining your weight loss throughout the holidays and losing if possible. Alot of the girls here have been steadily losing weight through sensible eating and exercise...our challenge is to maintain this lifestyle in social festive situations...we are testing out our new approach and relationship with food and eating.

So, for me, I'm gonna focus more on a lifestyle change and keep doing what is working for me....I cant speak for the other ladies though but I am sure they will let you know. You are always welcome to join us and post as often as you like...everyone is welcome here.

Tonight I consumed 1709 cals but I exercised for 32 minutes for a distance of 9.1km and burned off 330 cals for a total of 1379. I will also do some weight lifing after I finish this post...the arms tonight.

Stay strong ladies and Reina...dent away at the scale:lol:

Lisa sorry to hear your instructor didnt show up...valiant effort on your part.

Miki...you crack me up:lol: but I didnt realize it too for the first few posts:^: hehehheh

Annie where are you...I am so worried for you...I do hope you are doing well and I hope your medical news doesnt have you in the dumps...share your story with us and we will walk with you until you are feeling better....I send you lots of good energy...I hope you are reading this.

a big hug to everyone

Cyan

Hello all!!

First of all, once again, I have to say THANKS!!! You regulars here get all the credit for me passing up piping hot french fries tonite. I had to work til 7pm so I stopped by and got my family cheeseburgers and fries. For myself, I stopped by Subway and got a 6 inch veggie sub. I live about 20 minutes from work sooo the whole trip the fries were smelling sooooo good!!! Normally, as I drive I ALWAYS eat a few out of the sack along the way. I was dying to do that tonite but kept thinking"But if I dont, I'll have something positive to tell the 'chicks' after blowing it with my calories Saturday." Ohhh almost forgot...when I reached over to get the money for my sub, my hand brushed against the sack and it was really warm. Talk about temptation! :devil:
Almost gave in then but didnt. I love the incentive ya'll give me. Being accountable really helps me try to do better.

Reina_Mia...I think you made the right decision about Curves. I mean, you have us...what else do you need??? ( hahaha ) Seriously tho, I think it's good to be positively sure before signing any contract, etc. And if you are disciplined enough to exercise at home for a long period of time, then you'll know you are really disciplined, period. I think getting motivated at home is the hardest so you're doing great so far! I started back with my HEAVY drinking today..water that is.:lol: I slacked off alot during the holiday.

Taiwain..thanks for the info about yourself. It was really interesting, and I love getting to know everyone. I admire you and your hubby for the work you're doing with the kids. And being devoted enough to missions to make a foreign land your home..Wow. (of course I'm sure the fact that your wonderful hubby was there kinda helped) :)

Lisa...sorry but I dont have any other info about gall bladder stuff besides what I told you earlier. I was in such pain that I have no idea what all tests they ran, etc. All I know was that I honestly thought I was going to die of a heart attack at the time. Was just really strange how it hit so quickly and was so serious in such a short time.

Cyan...glad I wasnt the only one who didnt notice the posts beneath the 'reply' spot. I'm a little slower than you tho..lol
You're killing me with all your exercising!! Keep up the good work..it shames me into doing more.

I'm really worried about Annie. I hope everything is ok with her. I know she got what sounded like a bad report at the doctor, but I hope she'll come back and let us be here for her. Hopefully it's nothing serious. I miss her posts. She's such an asset here. Anyone heard from her at all?? I thought maybe she had someone's email or something.

I heard from WI-wide the other day via email. She was the first 3fc buddy I made ( for those we dont know her). She had gotten discouraged like we all do but says she plans to get back on track and in here with us again.

Debee...you're welcome to join us anytime. I'd love to lose 30 lbs by March but whether I do or not, I'm going to continue in this lifestyle change we've embarked on. That's the great thing here...successes or failures, someone is always here to applaud you, cheer you on, or help you get back up when you fall. We're a wonderful group of ladies who are determined to live a healthy life.

Well, going to hop on my AirWalker and work off that veggie sub.

Take care ladies!!

MIKI

Alright, I had a good day today. I didn't overeat and I stayed within my calorie range. I am feeling a little bloated right now, and not in the exercise mood, but I am sure I will be doing so tomorrow. I was just telling my hubby that I have been so tired lately.. I just can't seem to get enough sleep and I feel as if I am on auto-pilot now. So I am getting to bed right after this post.

MikiG - Kudos to you for passing up those piping hot fries. I am telling, if it were me, they wouldn't have made it to the front door.:dizzy:
I am still a nut for McDonalds and I think it will always be like that. I just can't seem to walk in there with my son and get a happy meal and a SALAD. Just not realistic for me at least. But you deserve a whole lot of credit for that one.:bravo:
Oh, and I forgot with heavy water consumption comes many bathroom breaks. But I did drink over 72oz of water today..
Let WI-Wide know that we are all here for her and more than willing to help her get back on track and hear her struggles. We all have them and and I am sure we can share some great support.

Debee, Welcome to the group and Congrats on your challenge to lose 30lbs by March. If you need any support, please feel free to contact us here on the loop. I would love to try, but I am going to try to keep track with my current challenge. But once again, feel free to drop in whenever.

Annie, where are you? I hope to hear from you. If you need to talk, you know we are here for you. My heart and prayers are with you.....

I just got some really bad news about a cluster member of mine. This young vibrant mother of 2 small children was just diagnosed with Cancer of the Lymphnodes(sp?). They just told us it is all over her body and will be going through intensive Chemo.. I don't know why it has hit me so bad. I can't say that I am very close to this person, but knowing that there are two small children that are going to be affected by this, kills me. I was 22 years old when I had to take care 24/7 of my grandmother and watch her deteriorate from Cancer of the pancreas, and I still havent' recovered after 7 years, how do small children deal with that? What does that do to their soul... :?:
Sorry to ramble about this, but I just can't seem to shake this today...
Have a great evening, I am tired and just need to close my eyes.
Have a blessed evening

Reina...dont ever feel you have to apologize for rambling. When you need to talk, we're here to listen. That is a really sad situation and hit you close to home. I'm the same way whenever someone with kids is going thru a divorce. I was 21 when my parents split up, and it hurt more than anything I had ever been thru. I've always wondered how in the world my 3 younger sisters handled it so well. ( the youngest wasnt even in school yet) I think things like that stay with us forever, but I also think it helps give us compassion for others. The family will be in my prayers also.
MIKI

Okay, so I posted once and then lost it....so now I just don't have it in me to do it all again. Basically, I ate horrible yesterday. I was out of control. I feel horrible....emotionally and physically.

I will do better today.

Welcome Debee. i would love to hear your ideas on how to lose weight over the holidays! I need some motivation in that area.

I'm also very concerned about Annie.

My GB sono is at 9am, I'll post after that.

Lisa

This morning I decided to step on the scale and see how I was doing...I am now 167pounds...yay:cp: It has been a long arduous road for me...I eat too much and then I have to exercise to burn it off....but my food choices have been very wise ..choosing good foods for the most part. And, honestly, truly, you ladies have been such a source of support...knowing that you will read my posts keeps me honest and motivated to keep at it...I feel accountable and I dont want to mess up and slowly, I'm internalizing this feeling and I want to exercise especially now that I feel good, strong and can move easily into an out of things..like when I was a kid...its a very good feeling....thanks for me my personal trainers and ears.

Lisa...keep trying...we all eat horribly once in awhile...and inlight of your gallbladder situation, I am sure you are worried and stressed out of your mind...and inspite of all this, you are still here with us working on losing weight and exercising...remember to always give yourself credit for all the good things you do. When you do have an off day....leave it there, move on...there is no point in beating yourself up for it. Let us know how your doctor's appointment went this morning

Miki, I like the strenghth and confidence you exude in your posts...it encourages me to keep going. And good on you for not eating up all those fries....this is pure determination on your part and dont forget to pat yourself on the back. How did your airwalker go last night?

Reina...like Miki says...dont ever feel like you are rambling...we are in this together so feel free to say what you are feeling even if its not weight related because emotions and dealing with them is important....I would rather you post here to feel better than to go to your fridge and stuff those feelings down with food...Okay?

PreciousOne, Cjunk, LadyRider and Annie...looking forward to hearing from you soon...I send you all good energy.

Annie I send you an extra special hug filled with lots of good energy.

Cyan

Well, today, Tuesday was pretty good for me. I now go to fitday.com like you all suggested, but I must be counting wrong or something cause my calories always come up less than 1300, and it doesn't seem to me that I eat that few. Of course, the salad, I don't know how to count since I make up a big one and it may take 3 days to eat it.
Anyway, I burned 245calories today, not bad. I did free weights (ok, I used a family size Campbell's clam chowder can--full, I don't have weights, it's on my Christmas list!) and worked on just my arms today, gave my abs a rest.

I will tell you all, that since I have found this board, this has seemed so much easier. I have never stuck with anything this long (going on 3weeks now). Even dh is suprised. And when we went shopping today, I got on like 5 different scales to see what they said, and they read between 87kg(191.4lb) and 89kg(195.8lb) and I don't "officially" weigh myself until Friday. My first goal is my prepregnancy weight 85kd (187lb) and I know I will reach it before then. I know can button some clothes from prepregnancy times, a little snug, but I couldn't button them 1.5months ago!!!! Thanks ladies, you all are so encouraging.

Lisa--bad days come and go, don't fret, you already have enough on your mind with the GB pain. How did you sono go?

Reina--talking to someone, whether on the computer or in person is so important. If you didn't and just kept it inside, you would dwell on it even longer. I helped a friend take care of her 4.5year old twin with a brain tumor (one boy was healthy and the other was sick for 2 years). Stayed with her in the hospital and helped put lotion on the boy, sang to him, helped whereever I could while he was in a coma. I don't think I was ever the same after that. When I see sick little ones, it just brings back memories. But I talked alot with my mom, and cried alot too. Don't feel like you are rambling.
Cyan--I just love your posts. Just something extra encouraging about them. Congrats on losing some weight. Hey, at least you are exercising. That's so important.

Well, ladies, I have to clean up my house before bed. I hate coming downstairs to a mess. I think if you looked up mess in the dictionary, you would see a picture of my house--lol!

Lisa,
I am sorry that you are feeling so bad right now, but you are going through some things right not that can stress anyone out. You are totally entitled to have bad days, and I know you will continue to have alot of good ones, once you have your gallbladder fixed.
Don't get too down on yourself, brush yesterday off and continue with today. I hope everything goes very well with your sono. You are in my prayers.

Cyan,:cb: Congrats on losing some more weight. YOu are a true inspiration to all of us. YOu are one decided WOMAN and you deserve all the glory when you keep dropping that weight. Kudos to you.

Taiwan - I am glad that you found this group to be very beneficial to you. I myself have never stuck to any diet after so many days. I overwhelm my self and quit. UNTIL I found this group. They really have been there for me, and have made me feel worthy of making myself a better person(healthwise). My husband is shocked as well that I have keep to this.
Good luck and keep up the good work.

Miki, Cyan,& Taiwan, thanks for hearing me out about my friends problems. It is good that I am always able to talk to people.

PreciousOne, Cjunk, LadyRider and Annie...I am also looking forward to hear from you. Hope you are all doing well.

I got a little extra sleep this morning, so I am hoping that I have more energy today. I do plan on working out when I get home today. After my son and I play Candyland!!!!

Have a great day everyone...
:dance: :grouphug:

I'm having a hard time with my posts today.

I just typed up a big thing with personal replies and everything, but I had too many little pics but I couldn't go back to fix it. ARGH!!

Sonogram went fine. Won't know anything until tommorow at the earliest.

Have a great day everyone!!

Thanks for the warm welcome! I love the idea that you are all looking to change your eating habits and make more of a lifestyle change than go from diet to diet. I think that is the only way for long term weightloss. I'll introduce myself. I'm a 42 year old mom of a 7 and 4 year old from Philly. I never had a weight problem until I didn't come off as easily. My main problem is I eat out of stress and because my husband is a meat and potato guy I tend to make dinners that are not just a salad and chicken. In addition to my husband's food choices my two little boys will only eat pizza and hot dogs, chicken fingers and say yuk to any green food (vegetables always have to be disguised) I think that if I didn't have all the junk food around it would be easier to avoid the tempation. However, everytime I try not to buy the junk food my family doesn't think I went food shopping. Well, I have to go to the bus stop. Hope to talk again soon

Hello everyone, I hope you all are doing good this evening. I had a great day, stayed well below my calorie intake, and I completed the 1 mile Walk Away the Pounds Video. I really liked it. I totally felt it in my legs and it flew by so fast, I really didn't feel like I exerted myself.
I will do that one for the rest of the week and then try the 2 mile next week.

Lisa, I hope everything went well for you today, and you had a good day now that the stress of the sono is over.

Debee, you are in the right place, there are many stress eaters here, and I am one of them. If you read in the earlier posts, it seems like McDonalds call me when they know I am stressed. That is my relaxation food. My son is also a very picky eater and my husband is just, there are no words to describe his eating habits. I am tired of looking at cookies, and chips and soda around the house. I still catch myself stealing his cup of soda and running to the next room to drink it. That is a very bad habit of mine. Now I have a case of Mountain Dew (Diet) at hand and that is what I drink when I am home.

Cyan,
When I log on to 3fc. I got to message boards, then I go to Misc. Under Exercise, Diet, Support, there are 2 icons to the left of the loop name. Do you know why the first one always changes. I have noticed different envelopes and I was wondering if that gives us problems gettting to the loop. There is no descriptions for these kinds of envelopes that keep showing up on our loop. I was just curious about that.

Where is everyone, I miss hear from you all.


Hope to hear from you soon.
:balloons:

Hello again ya'll :cool:

Got on my shades up there trying to fake myself into thinking it's not a yucky, rainy day outside. lol

How is everyone? I'm okay I guess. Not much news today. Didnt do bad as far as calories but not outstanding either. I did 30 min on my AirWalker this morning but spent the rest of the day sitting in a doctor's office with my mother-in-law. That is sooo tiring! And of course, as usual, she'll get results in a day or two...never do you find out anything definite the first time!

Got a busy next few weeks coming up. Thurs nite my youngest is having a Fall Festival at school. ( I have to miss my work Christmas party which is also that nite ) Fri nite my oldest has another out of town basketball game. Mon nite he has another one out of town, then Tues. one in town. I have to work tomorrow, Saturday, and Monday. I have no idea when I"m going to get Christmas shopping done. It has really sneaked up on me this year.

Lisa, I know how you feel. More than once I've lost a posting that I spent an hour or more on. Just makes ya sick and like you, I didnt have the heart to type it all over. I hope tomorrow you will know something for sure from your sonogram and will have an idea of what needs to be done to get rid of your pain!

Taiwan, glad to hear you had such a good day. I thought it was neat to hear you have Campbell's soup in Taiwan. lol I use Fitday everyday also and I too usually think the calories seem lower than I'd think possible but I choose to believe Fitday is right..LOL
( of course, when it shows I burn more calories than I think I did with exercise I choose to believe that also. lol )

Way to go Cyan!:bravo: Your hard work is paying off!

Reina_Mia, how nice you got to sleep in today! Hope you got the rest you needed and lots of extra energy from it.

Debee, you sure fit in here if you eat because of stress. Join the crowd. Of course, if you eat because you're happy, sad, mad, bored, etc....you'd fit in also. lol I do all of the above. ( or I used to ....breaking that habit tho slowly but surely with the help of these extra special ladies:)) Your family sounds just like mine too. To them, healthy=yuck. lol

Well, I'm going to go do another few minutes on my AirWalker before I take my bath. Hubby says if I dont take time to shave these legs SOON, I'll be able to knit sweaters for Christmas gifts.:joker:

Nite all....have a great nite !
MIKI

Tonight I was bad bad bad...I had a lemon pie and when I counted my calories...well I consumed 1992 cals and 59 grams of fat...fat was good but way too many calories...so I felt compelled to exercise...and I did...for an hour of cycling ....I burned off 660 calories for a distance of 17.3km so my total cals consumed is 1332. I have to control my binge eating...I was mad...so I ate the friggin pie...what was left of it...a third...yeesh:mad:

Oh well...at least I exercised:smug:

Reina...those icons are symbols...an envelope with a camera in it says there are pictures for the avatars and a red envelope means it has a lot of views...a big thread...not to worry...it good.
Good going on the exercising...keep going....stay motivated...and I know what you mean with the sodas...i'm a real junkie for that...I live for fat pepsi...love it love it love it...but I settle for the diet stuff and for a treat, ocaisionally I have a full fat pepsi:lol:
I just love food...plain simple...I could never deprive myself forever...never.

debee how much weight are you looking to lose and what is your plan of action...details please:lol:

k, its late for me...gotta get my beauty sleep....a big hug to everyone

Cyan

Hey...I keep forgetting to ask. Do any of you have journals in here? I was thinking someone said once they did. I"ve been reading some of them and have found some of those also very encouraging. But I didnt recognize any of the names as any of you. Been thinking of starting an online one also. I do log everything into a notebook, but it was neat to read the thoughts of others in their journals online. Not sure yet that I want my personal thoughts read by just anyone, but I've given it some thought.

It happened again. I lost my post because I hit the wrong button.

I can't belive I did that!

Well, I'm sick, so I'm going to bed.

good night
Lisa

Miki, I have a journal on here. I enjoy it just to plan my day or talk about something that might bore the rest of you. At least if it's boring, I'm not forcing anyone to read it!

Lisa

Lisa...here's what I started doing. When I finish typing, I highlight it all and right click and "Copy". Then if I hit "Submit" and for some reason it doesnt work, I can just hit reply again and "Paste". Hope that helps you too. Sorry you're sick again! Cant wait for you to get something done so you'll feel better. Well, Im going to bed now too. NITE

Hello,
Hope everyone is doing well. Reina, I'm sorry to hear about your friend. Keep your faith everything will be ok. Cyan, congrats on your weight loss. You are truly an inspiration. Welcome Taiwan and Debee. I gaurantee you'll love it here these ladies are great.

I'm finally getting back on track. Feeling great other than the pain from the ovarian cysts. I hate taking pain pills so I try to concentrate on anything but the pain. Works sometimes. I've been exercising regulary. I was determined to take Sunday off but couldn't resist doing something so I got on my bike and then lifted a few weights. Pulled out my old exercise tapes since it's getting chilly out. I'm so proud I can actually make it through a whole tape. LOL Before I could barely do 15mins! Reina I have one of Leslie Sansones tapes. I love it but it's time to get some of her new ones, the one I have is about worn out!

Ladies take care and remember One day at a time! :grouphug:

Good morning all! How is everyone. We woke up to about 3 -5 inches of snow! It's beautiful. And it's still snowing. We're supposed to get about 3 more inches! Unfortunatley, they didn't cancel school! So, me and my sickness had to get up and get my daughter to school. My husband took my window scraper!!! He will here about that later!:s:

My plan for the day is to straighten my kitchen, start some laundry and to sleep! I'm so tired and I know that rest is what my body needs to get better. (Plus...who can eat while they are sleeping?);)

PreciousOne!!!:balloons: So glad to see you. I'm glad you are feeling better. I haven't been able to get to know you as well as the other girls and I'm looking forward to it! We would love to have your picture up! It's great to put names with faces.

Taiwan and Debee, same for you. Would love to see your pictures up here! I have found that it makes this a whole lot more personable.

Cyan, it's okay to indulge every once in a while.....I don't know about nearly a whole pie...:nono: LOL

Well I hope everyone has a great day. I had shredded wheat for breakfast and I'm not going to the gym prbably until next week as my Friday already has a school meeting I have to go to at my workout time. Hopefully I can get better soon! BTW, Nyquill Tablets are wonderful when you're trying to go to bed. They dry you up and knock you out!

See you all later:wave:
Lisa

You are right Lisa...a whole pie is pure gluttony...I only did have one third of it:^: ....sometimes when I get mad or frustrated...I eat..binge...the good thing about yesterday...is I stopped myself for continuing my binge and instead got on the bike for the second time that evening a cycled for 20 minutes...thats why I totalled 17.3 km and burned off 660 cals....so you see, I was able to stop myself from the destructive eating and transfer it to exercising off my anger.....and it worked....so I am happy:smug:

PreciousOne I am so glad you are back with us and I am sooooo proud of you for getting back on track...you go girl:lol: The more exercise you do on a regular basis...the more addictive it gets...I think its getting to be the same way for you judging my your sunday....good feeling huh?

Hey Miki...I've been thinking of activitating my online journal too...it might be a good idea to keep it online ...I will let you know if I do it or not. How has your exercising and eating been going? Are you sticking to plan.

Just a reminder....the deadline for the Oprah letter is Jan 5 2003...then I will amalgamate all letters submitted into one big letter and send it off....:D

Okay girls...have a great day, stay strong and make wise choices

Cjunk, LadyRider and Annie....hope you are all doing well...I send you all good energy

Cyan

Breast Defence

Cancer prevention the natural way

By Bonnie McLachlan and Tannis McLaren

Most illnesses, including breast cancer, can be signs of a physical and emotional imbalance. Whether you are treating or preventing breast cancer, you should address both your physical and emotional well-being.

Physical Although there is no known cause of breast cancer, the list of risk factors is growing. Genetics and aging are two significant factors. An excess of estrogen in the body may be correlated to breast cancer. There are various factors that determine our estrogen levels, such as the length of our menstrual cycles, if we have children early, whether or not we breastfeed and the number of children we have. If you have numerous short cycles, you are exposed to more estrogen. You block estrogen during pregnancy and breastfeeding causes increased prolactin, which inhibits estrogen.

Also, your exposure to estrogen decreases with the more kids you have. Other sources of estrogen include the birth-control pill, fertility drugs and hormone replacement therapy. Lifestyle factors that may increase your risk of breast cancer include being overweight, not exercising, heavy alcohol consumption and improper nutrition.

Keeping your eliminative organs (the kidneys, liver, skin, lungs, lymphatics and colon) functioning and eliminating properly is important in order to reduce the amount of estrogen and toxins circulating in the body. These toxins can also come from within the body. For example, an imbalance of the “good” bacteria to the “bad” bacteria in the intestines will develop toxic byproducts. The bad bacteria love to feed on sugars (breads, cookies, candy), so it is important not to overindulge. You can also enhance the good bacteria with such foods as plain organic yogurt or by taking an acidophilus supplement.

To detoxify your body, try saunas or gentle exercise where you break a sweat, such as Tai Chi, yoga, walking and deep breathing, which can help eliminate toxins through the lungs.

Choosing the right foods is a good way to detoxify your body. Eat organic food whenever possible, as it does not contain estrogen-mimicking chemicals. Including more whole grains, beans, vegetables, nuts, seeds and fruit in your diet may reduce your breast-cancer risk. Studies have shown that soy can decrease your risk of breast cancer. Include soy milk, soy yogurt and tofu in your diet.

Eating or juicing vegetables, fruit, sprouts and wheat grass not only helps detoxify but also provides the body with enzymes, vitamins and minerals. Garlic, onions, sprouts and the brassica family (kale, cabbage, broccoli) aid in liver detoxification. Dandelion greens have a phenomenal ability to detoxify the liver and the lymphatic system. Use the leaves and roots in salads and soups or juice it with fruit or vegetables.

Whole grains provide vital nutrients, are a source of fibre and can bind circulating estrogen. After binding, the estrogen is eliminated through the bowels. Beans, especially lentils, contain cancer-inhibiting enzymes that may help to prevent the development and recurrence of breast cancer. When consuming fats, stay away from saturated fats (red meat, milk, cheese) and especially hydrogenated fats (margarine, crackers, bread and chips), which can clog the liver and arteries.

Both are also void of the essential fats and can damage any of the existing protective essential fats. Essential fats (found in some fish, flaxseed and olive oil, among other sources) are precursors to prostaglandins, which do everything from strengthen the immune system to regulate hormones. Sugar should be avoided because it suppresses the immune system and alcohol and caffeine interfere with the liver’s ability to detoxify.

Emotional Naturopathic doctors believe that to prevent or treat breast cancer, a woman should practise self-awareness in order to explore areas of her behaviour that may be causing “toxic” emotions in the body.

One way to focus your energy and thoughts inward is with a breathing exercise. Sit in an upright position. Inhale through your left nostril by blocking your right nostril with your right thumb. Then, exhale through your right nostril by blocking your left nostril with your right ring and little fingers. Then, inhale through your right nostril and exhale through your left. Continue for about five minutes, always inhaling through the same nostril you just exhaled from.

“[Breast cancer] is a journey of learning to change. It’s not about blaming or feeling guilty. It’s about becoming aware of one’s actions and emotions and accepting responsibility for them,” says Hana Weidenfeld, a Toronto-based naturopathic doctor who has been diagnosed with, and has undergone treatment for, breast cancer.

In general, women often put the needs of others before their own or find it difficult to communicate their needs to others. If these negative emotions are not dealt with, they will continue to circulate in the body and can weaken the immune system. If you’re having difficulties working through your emotions, see a professional who can help you through your healing journey.


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Tannis McLaren is a practising naturopathic doctor in Toronto (call 416-763-3211 or send email to tannismclaren@sympatico.ca). She is a graduate of The Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine (CCNM) in Toronto. Bonnie McLachlan is a graduate of the CCNM.

First published in the October 2002 issue of Flare Magazine.