General Diet Plans and Questions - Doin' it the Old Fashioned Way #15!!

Hello everyone!
I am starting that new thread now...the other was getting pretty long, I guess.
DITOFW is a group of ladies that are losing weight through regular exercise and by following a balanced eating plan. We do not use pills,prescriptions, quick fixes, or any crash diets. Anyone on balanced eating plans are welcome here-calorie counting, Weight Watchers, FoodMover, etc. any plan that is a lifestyle and healthy that includes lots of fruits and vegetables.
We are currently at the beginning of a new challenge that started at the first of the year and will go until the end of the month. We are really stressing the regular exercise and the drinking of plenty of water during this challenge.
Please join us for friendship, motivation, and the occasional kick in the rear to get everyone going!:dizzy: :lol:
Aphil

Hi all! Happy New Year! Just reminiscing that two years ago yesterday I started a wonderful journey and have had the support of the people here at 3FC for a whole year now! We have all written about how much better we feel, but when I tell you that loosing 103 pounds has changed my life, I am telling the truth!! I wish you all the same success and positive experience this journey has been for me! YOU CAN DO IT!!!

Just wanting to get in on the notification for this new thread! :)

I'll continue the baby name discussion but anyone popping in here without reading the last thread might wonder how random I am.. :lol:

With my daughter, I heard the nickname Lexi and really liked it so I looked for a name that could be shorted to Lexi and came up with Alexa.. less common than alexandra or alexis at the time.. although now I find out it was in the top 100 for 1999 .. ;)

With her middle name, we were in the hospital after having her and watching television and Michael Jordan was on announcing his retirement (one of many apparently LOL). MJ was my hubby's favorite player and so my daughter's middle name became Jordan :)

With her, we knew we were having a girl so we didn't even bother with boy names.

As far as a girl's name this time, I think we've agreed on Kairi. It's actually the name of a character on one of his video games. The minute I heard it, I really liked it... but we've not gotten the best response from our families about it.. blah! Too bad for them! :D

Unfortunately we aren't even sure about that yet.. and for boy's names we have nada so far!! I been wracking my brain but so far, no good!!

Anyway, off the name topic.. I had a dr appt today and actually lost a pound since last appt 2 weeks ago.. I'm certainly not complaining!! The nurse wanted to know if I'd been sick or not eating as much.. but I dunno why she's so concerned because I'm well aware of the fact that losing a pound or two in the last month is normal! (I thought I might point that out to her but was not up for a debate). Anyway, I still have a few weeks to gain it back plus some.. lol.. and actually, I am sick (a nasty cold) so she figured that was why I'd lost... whatever!

Ok.. now that I've written a novel here.. lol...
I have another dr appt tomorrow (actually get to see a real DOCTOR this time too.. wow!).. I wish I could convince them to give me an ultrasound but thats looking doubtful ;)

Ok, and thats my 2 cents.. or perhaps a whole nickle.. for today..

:)
Christine

Hello everyone :wave:


AMY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Way to go on the pounds lost !!!!! You are doing just grrrrrrrrrrrrrrreat ! I am so happy for you and just to show you ....here are the happy dancers :cb: :dancer: :dance:
Keep up the good work !!! So close to the 180's yahoo!!!!!!

Christine,,, I love the name Andrew for a boy, as a matter of fact I had a dream that my son and dil had another baby boy and named him Andrew, and of course I adore the name Alexander, that is my little grandson's name. He is just over 2 years old. I think the name Andrew for your baby should it be a boy :) would go perfectly with big sister Alexa!!!!!!

Tryin'hard, Holly, Kina, DNW a big hello to you all...

Ok I am outta here, a late day for me,, I need my beauty sleep.

ciao for now :wave:

Nancy:df:
198.8/180.9/150

Silly ol' bear! I had no problem finding you all.

I am feeling a bit better but still having trouble swallowing and all that. Okay well in case we get some newbies...I have a horrible sore?soar throat right now and it is getting better. I joined 3FC in June of this year and lost the most weight since my life change journey. In 2002, I lost a total of 31.5 lbs...wow I hadn't actually calculated it! I did start out with using Slim Fast but was Doctor instructed to get that out of my system. So now I am trying to do it the right way...afterall I have to live with food throughout the rest of my life! I plan to get rid of the same amount of excess baggage this year as I did last year BUT hopefully more.

Amy~~~I really enjoyed your path of naming your children that was so interesting. I really liked the Thor part--very funny. A part I didn't know about you.

Let me not forget Woohoo! The 80s just over the horizon!

Nancy~~~Andrew is a beautiful name. And to have all your children named in the same alphabet! Like my grandma named all her girls with a "S" Sonia, Susie, Sarah, Sylvia, and San Juanita then the 6 boys were just random letters.

Christine~~~You are going to find the perfect name for your child because whatever you name him/her it will come straight from your heart. By the way the girl name you mentioned can you give me a pronunciation. I am pronouncing it as Carrie (Care-eeee). I am thinking I am wrong on this. It sounds interesting. I like different names for girls. I have stuck old fashioned bible names to my boys.

Tryin'hard~~~Glad to hear from you.

Okay...well I did actually get to eat dinner this evening very slowly. Who knows maybe I will show a loss this weekend after all I have been really drinking plenty of water since I figure water is a natural healer of all ailments. Quite honestly I am scared to pass anything larger than water since my throat is just on fire. It's like swallowing pins and needles. Ugh!

Tomorrow is "pinky day", my 6yr old, reminded me. :lol: That means she has been counting on her fingers (since she doesn't know how to read a calendar very well) as to how many more days until grandma comes to pick her up to take her to the "shop" (another of her terms which means shopping). I love children's lingo they are just so interesting. Right now my 6 yr old thinks she can stop a toy car in motion by twisting her fingers a certain way in the direction of the oncoming toy car. :lol: I just adore her. All my kids have been so wonderful to me while I have been sick bringing me water and such. Giving me hugs has been a wonderful natural remedy. Today was my first big day out of the bedroom and Vianca (the infamous 6 yr old) follows me into the kitchen. I know how much she loves to mimic my every move so I muster up the energy and do a bootie dance and she just carries on with her own mirror image of me. :lol: Sometimes my 12 yr old joins in. The other day I was teaching my 8 yr old to dance, arm in arm with a girl. Of course his eyeballs are near chest level and his giggling away of embarassement because his sisters are watching him be silly with mommy. I tell him "...and whatever you do, don't look at my boobs!" He giggles and says "Nuh-uh!" So then I say "What did you learn?" He says "To dance?" I say "Yes, BUT most importantly find a girl a little shorter than you or as tall as you." He just giggled and ran away before I asked him for another dance. I just love my kids and I hate being bed-ridden and unable to do for them. I guess that is why I went on this tangent.

I better get out of here or I will use up all the thread.:lol:
Bye. Kina

Good morning everyone!
Kina-I love to hear all of the goofy stuff you do with your kids!!! Don't forget, dancing counts as exercise-so be goofy with them dancing all you want!!! My exercise yesterday was bellydancing, and my kids have a Teletubbies exercise video that they do-(which I totally recommend for anyone who has kids 1-5 years old)-and my 1 year old boy is getting really good at following what they do...well, I am dancing yesterday, and Jasmine is on the couch watching me, and I look down, and Raiden is standing beside me trying to do the movements in his little yellow sleeper! Jasmine just started cracking up, and then he got emberrassed and ran down the hallway...it was too funny.
Kina, I also wanted to add that this past year I have been so proud of you, you have been doing so great losing 30+pounds, and doing what you can to try to learn about exercise and healthyier eating habits. Things may be going slow at times, but do not get discouraged, slow and steady teaches lifetime habits-and that is what wins the race!
Holly-I just emailed Nancy, and mentioned you, and I thought I would tell you what I said. When you first emailed me last year, you sounded like a totally different person-doubtful, depressed, and unhappy with your body. Now you are happy, energetic, and have so much confidence since you lost the weight. You didn't have as much to lose as the rest of us, but it just goes to show that even being 20 or 30 pounds overweight can have the same effects on a person who needs to lose 100 if they don't feel good about their body. I am so glad that you joined us, because you have showed us all the great changes that getting fit can have aside from the obvious physical. Many many hugs...you motivate me!:grouphug:
Christine...I hear you about family not always liking the name you pick for your child-I went through that! My advice is not to tell those family members what you have chosen until the child is born and it is in stone on the birth certificate. They won't hassle you when they know it cannot be changed!
I hope everyone is having a great morning! I am in the process of trying out a recipe I made up...I will let you know how it goes!
Aphil

Hi ladies, mind if I jump in and join you? You sound like such a nice group. I'm a 42 year old mom of two, ages 11 (for one more week, he keeps reminding me!) and 13. I'm a teacher's assistant in an elementary school. I'm a Weight Watchers lifetime member, and I worked there for year after making lifetime. My slide back into old habits and complacency started to happen before I left the job, so I can't say I gained the weight back because I quit, I was on my way before then. Anyhow, I find myself now facing the need to lose at least 35 lbs, I've kept off 28 of what I lost. I only want to get back down to about 140, that's above my WW goal but that's where I was most comfortable with myself, how I looked and felt and where I found it the easiest to maintain. I hovered there around 140 for a year or so, beating myself up the whole time because I was over goal, but I looked good and felt wonderful. So that's what I'm shooting for, 140.

I really like that the focus of this group is on the basics, because while I am following WW plan, I'm not fooling myself in believing I can do it religiously, to the letter, at least not yet. So I decided to also just focus on water, exercise, and making healthier choices, with portion control along the way for good measure. I'm not weighing and measuring my food, not even journaling yet, I will, but for now, to begin with, I'm taking baby steps to get me started.

Thanks for 'listening', and I look forward to getting to know you all.

upandaway

Welcome upandaway!
You are most welcome to join us! You have brought up such a good point with your post, and it got me thinking about something I wanted to say.
It is hard to lose weight and to get fit-but as hard as it is, it is actually the easiest part of the journey. It is exciting seeing your clothes get too large, and getting compliments, and watching teh scale go down...but the hardest part is keeping it off, and continuing with the healthy eating habits and regular exercise after you get to where you are most comfortable with your body. It is very important that we see these changes as LIFELONG, and not temporary. If we revert to old habits and slack on our exercise, our body will go back to the way it was before. It is so important to keep motivated, and to have a support system that keeps you on the road to a healthy life forever, especially when the world is used to seeing you fit and strong, and all of the compliments we loved recieving when our loss was brand new have died down...that is where the hard part begins.
You have to put yourself and your body first all of the time. You cannot take care of your children, husband or partner, or your job 100% unless you take care of yourself. When you are eating right, exercising, and doing those little things "just for you"-everything else will flow along much nicer.
upandaway-that is great that you have caught yourself slipping before you gained all of your previously lost weight back. I would recommend that one of your first baby steps to getting back on track, along with the water, would be to ease back into some form of regular exercise, and to begin journaling again. It is so important to see where our "slipups" are happening...it could be something as simple as a daily soda habit...knowing exactly what we are consuming, and "owning up to it" by writing it down is a wonderful step.
Welcome!
Amy-Aphil

:flow2: Welcome Up and Away! :flow2:

This is a great group and I always look forward to listening to their successes and their struggles. It kind of keeps it all in prospective. I hope that you find exactly what I found when I joined...Support, Understanding, and Lots of Friends!

I will tell you honestly and I'm sure you know this yourself...IT'S NOT EASY-none of it is! I have never counted calories; I am just learning. I have never done portion controlling; I am having a hard time adjusting but water makes it easy. I never looked at the food pyramid so investigatively as I do now. But you know I screw up alot and luckily I have this really bad throat infection because I have been so good ;) . Once I see a lost I run with it like the dickens. LOL All of this isn't taught in Slim Fast well maybe a little but their thing is to push their shakes. I try not to think of this as a diet but more as a new way of improving myself in the long run.

You are going to like it here on 3FC.

Thanks Amy, I usually don't count that dancing for exercise because...(who knows it might be a mental thing) then it won't be as much fun :lol: LOL. How cute Raiden enjoys you so much. Is this interesting or what our children's name are similar?...Raiden vs Raevin.

Well I am getting better as the days go by. I am going to be doing laundry today the kids will be back in school Tuesday. Talk to you all later.
Kina

Hello all :)

Had another dr appt today... and I was a pound less than yesterday but I'm sure that is because it was at 9am rather than 3 in the afternoon.. lol According to MY scale this morning though, I am up only 38 pounds total at the moment. 38 is good... I can live with 38 .. :D

I too like the name Andrew (and the nickname of Drew) but unfortunately I dated an Andrew before I met my husband and that kinda knocks that name off the list ;) I also love the name Alexander but I figured having an Alexa and Alexander was a little TOO close.

The name Kairi is pronounced like Kylie but with an R.. Ky-ree. Its both Japanese and Australian in origin I believe. My mom was kind enough to say it sounds like a little kid trying to say "kylie" and my sister says it sounds like an oriental person trying to say "kylie" ... they will just have to deal if we do have a girl and choose that name! :D

Welcome upandaway... these ladies truely are an inspiration.. even though I've been a little less active due to my pregnancy, I still have to check up with them because I know I'll be back on the diet bandwagon asap and I know these ladies will keep me there!!

:)
Christine

Hey everybody so good to read about everyone's successes and I love to hear about the kids...I was never able to have kids...but do enjoy the stories..reminds me of my nieces when they were young.

My food hasn't been totally clean...but I am doing my best since I have had the throat thing, although not as bad as Kina...but the weather in northeast Jersey where I live is all ice, sleet, and freezing rain so I didn't even go to work today.

I will go back to the gym Monday morning, because I have no strength to speak of right now, if I feel better tomorrow I will do my exercise tape.

A quick food note for those who love pumpkin pie:

I took a long shot an used only non-fat evaporated milk (receipe calls for regular evaporated and whole milk mixed) and substituted the sugar with Splenda but added 1 1/4 cups of it, instead of the 3/4 called for with regular sugar. I am finding with Splenda you need about a 1/4 more than the receipe calls in terms of sugar, when baking.

Well, it was fabulous, and you really could not tell the difference, in fact I found the pumpkin mix to be richer and creamier than the regular receipe....now I am going to make it as a pumpkin pudding. The fat and sugar calories savings have to be very substantial...Try this is you have a real urge for pumpkin.

Take care and I will write soon.

Kina-I didn't know you had a child named Raevin...that is just gorgeous!!!! If Raiden had been a girl, Raven was a name that we tossed around her, which turned out to be "him"...
Well, the recipe I was making up earlier today turned out GREAT, so I have decided to share. You will have to figure up the calories or points for yourself, because the brands of ingredients and choice of fruit used may cause that to vary.
SINGLE SERVE BERRY COBBLER
1 serving of frozen berries (either blueberries, rasberries, or blackberries-my bag of rasberries said 3/4c. for 60 calories, so that is the amount I used.)
Splenda sweetener-(it tastes much better than Equal or SweetNLow when you used in recipes)
skim milk
Reduced Fat Bisquick or pancake mix
ground cinnamon
Put the frozen berries in a microwavable bowl, and sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of Splenda over it, and stir. In a separate small bowl, put 1/4c. skim milk, and 1/4c. Bisquick-stir until blended well. Add in a dash of cinnamon and a dash of Splenda and mix again. Pour over berries and microwave for 3 minutes, until pancake mix is cooked. It will not brown like in the oven, but it will taste just fine. Cool 2-3 minutes before eating.
The Splenda and cinnamon add no calories, and 1/4c.skim milk is 20 calories...you will have to see your fruit and baking mix package directions to see the calories in those items. If the pancake mixture is too thick, you can add a touch of water. This has the wonderful cobbler taste, without all of the sugar and fat. On the food pyramid, it would equal a fruit serving and a bread/starch. I had it for breakfast, and it was WONDERFUL! I felt like I was cheating, and it smelled so great when it was cooking!!! YUM!!! (When I made mine, it added up to be about 220 calories-to give you an idea)
Trust me, you will not be disappointed! :D
Well, I better get going...I have finished my upper body strength training and abs...it is time to get my lower body done...it sure needs it! :lol:
Have a wonderful afternoon!
Aphil

DNW-we were posting at the same time!!! I also play around with regular recipes that I love to make them healthier! It is so great to hear from you again, and I hope your throat is on the mend!
Aphil

Welcome Upandaway~~,,, glad to have you aboard!!!!! You are bound to feel at home with the great group we have here. the more the merrier and we are a merry bunch!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kina~~! Look at you and the weight you have lost this past year. You have to be feeling so good about yourself. And to have the discipline while going to school, working , taking care of a husband and little ones, you totally rock!!!! :dance: I am so happy for you !!! And I do hope you are feeling better!! Oh by the way Kina, I am a dancer also, but that is only when I am by myself and that is when I turn into Nancy,,,, the "Solid Gold Dancer" I dance like I really know how too !!!!!!! But who is to tell me any different, I never do it when any one is around ! :lol:

DNW~~ So good to see a post from you! So sorry to hear that your throat has been bothering you also. I hope you will soon be in tip top shape !

Christine~~ I bet as soon as that little one arrives you will have alot of those 38 pregnancy pounds off!!!! Dont stress about it one bit. You will be just fine!

Amy~~ Are you ready for this???? Are you sitting down???? Now listen very closely, because I am sure you never expected to hear this from me,,, Are you sure you want to know ?????????? Ok here goes,,,,,, I joined Curves today!!!!!!!
Amy are you there?? Did you faint??? Some one get the smelling salts and help Amy out :lol: ......... What I am trying to say here is that I actually made a commitment to exercise !!!! I figured that since I am so out of shape, this would be a good way for me to start some kind of program. It isnt as intense as some people may like. But for me anything is a plus! As you know I am a true exercise hater!! I do believe that exercise is the work of the devil :devil:
But seriously, I took the money that my FIL gave me for Christmas and went and joined. I did not sign the year contract but choose to do it on a month to month basis. I really enjoyed the session today and my heart rate did go up of course I could feel muscles working that I did not know were even there :lol:

I believe by taking this step , Ill be able to work my way up to bigger things eventually. What do you think? I think you have got the message into my head that I have to exercise. We all know what happens when you do, just look at that last pic that Holly posted of herself!!!!!!!! :)


Holly and Tryin'hard~~ A great big hello to you both !!!

Well , ladies gotta run for now, I am going to meet a girlfriend of mine for coffee(yuck I dont drink that stuff, but I ll have tea) and then later on when I get back . Ill scan a picture of me at my top weight of 304 pounds and then a recent one,,,,hmmm I wonder if there is enough bandwidth on this site to do both???? :lol:

Hugs to all!!!
Nancy:df:

What song is that from? That's all I can remember that one line "come Saturday morning..." Oh well.

Thanks so much for the warm welcome. It makes such a difference to have the support of people who know what you are going through. My DH is supportive, unbelievably so, but he's thin as a rail and can eat whatever and never gain an ounce. Yesterday he offered to take me to Outback, our favorite place to eat and I said well I'd love to but I'm trying really hard and I only have so many points left and he okay, fine. I'm not sure I'd have been so sweet and understanding if it was reversed.

I have to try that berry cobbler, a single serving recipe is just what I need. It sound delicious. Nancy, I know just what you mean about exercise being the work of the devil! I hate it too, mainly because I'm so uncoordinated I usually end up hurting myself! I can do the Richard Simmons Sweatin to the Oldies tapes, but by the time I'm able to keep up and not feel like I'm just flailing around foolishly, I'm sick of the people, the music and Richard, who I love. My exercise is a stationary bike that I ride at least 20 minutes a day, more if I can make myself. I believe the "calories burned" function is misleading so I just time myself and call it good.

Kina, I too dance with my son, he's 11. He's a good sport about it, for my sake. It's mostly me dancing and him smiling and swaying and saying "go mom!" He paid me the ultimate compliment the other day, he said I was a cool mom. Wow.
Great day to all!
upandaway

Hello everyone!

Welcome upandaway! We're happy to meet you, and to welcome you into our group. Everyone helps and supports each other, and it is because of their help that I have lost, and am maintaining. Glad to have you here!

and yes, what a compliment from your son, that you're a cool mom! And what self-control to give up a meal at Outback!!! I would gladly save calories for two days to eat there!!

Nancy - YAHOO and WAY TO GO for joining Curves!!!! I KNOW that you will be psyched at what happens now when you combine your on-program eating with the exercise. JLo, step aside, girl, Nancy is gonna put you to shame!:D :D

Kina, so sorry that your poor throat is so sore! I do hope it gets better soon. Hot tea, if you can sip it, always eases me a bit. You are such a good mom! We can tell from how you interact with your kids. "Pinky day" - so cute.

Christine, my gosh, the time is drawing near! Yes, dealing with families' input on names can be detrimental to your (mental) health! It's purely you and your husband's decision. Hope you're still feeling well. 38 pounds, for a babygain, isn't that much. Yes, you can deal with that! So much will be gone in the first two weeks.

tryinhard, congrats on your two-year anniversary!!! Do you still run into anyone anymore who hasn't seen you since your loss? I'm trying to say that probably people around you are now used to you this smaller size-?

The ladies I work with said they have a hard time believing that I was overweight; they said I gave the impression of being an OK size all the time. It came up when we were eating lunch and I stuck to a small soup, saying I could never eat what I really wanted to, 'cause I'd be as big as a house :lol:

Oh! But they want to start doing an exercise tape at our boss's house at least twice a week! I think we might burn calories just by laughing with each other, and probably making fun of our poor tape instructor, but it's a start. We can then help each other during the day at work to eat well, which is totally do-able, with the portions of lean deli meats, fresh tomatoes, cukes, carrots, and sprouts available.

Yes, Amy, this maintaining takes just as much effort. Most days I have the new habits in place, that keep my portions right, and good choices over bad, and the mindless eating just not an option. But it sure is hard other times; my bad mind starts asking "hey, Holly, you're way down in your clothes size, you can certainly have an unscheduled bowl of cereal, bakery muffin, whatever". Bad mind!!! Quiet!!:D

DNW, sorry to hear that you haven't felt well either. I know that we get sick from germs, not the cold yucky winter weather, but it sure seems that one gets sick more often in the winter. Hot green tea is again my contribution, plus resting. (oh yes, and I was born in Princeton, and grew up in Mercer County, NJ) I sure hope you feel better soon.

Nancy, I just zipped through some posts of the past few days (of which I've been absent :o ) and see HOW CLOSE to the 170's you are?!?! Woo-hoo!!! And Amy also about to close the gap into the next set of "ten" - WAY TO GO!! It is SO hard but you're doing it!!!:) :bravo: :cb: :dancer:

Hey, we haven't heard from Kanola, alibee, nor Jacklyn for a while. Hope you ladies are fine! I also feel sad for not hearing from two ladies from way back last year, Sprite and Melisa. Everyone makes contributions here, and we miss them when they aren't around.

We got a DUMP of snow today - at least 14", so we've been working away at clearing it. I'm going to do my indoor exercise first, then go out and get the outdoor aerobics!

Have a great day/evening!

Your friend, Holly

Good morning!
We have had a ton of snowfall yesterday and today...so I may get that shovel out and burn some calories today as well!
Well, I have Nancy's little surprise in the works, and in the process of being shipped to her house for tying with me in the Christmas challenge. We have emailed, and she seems pretty happy with what I am sending! (Maybe that will motivate the rest of you in this one! ;) )
Nancy-I emailed you about it, but I wanted to praise your decision on the boards as well. I am so glad that you joined Curves, since you are such an exercise hater-it may do you a world of good to be there with other ladies, to help motivate you. It was also such a smart decision to join it month by month, rather than all year, so you can move up to a regular gym, or another type of class when you outgrow them. I am just so happy that you signed up and went! Even on days that you do not feel like doing it-even I have them-say to yourself that it is only 30 minutes, and you will feel much better after you do it. (I always do, I have kindof a "rush" after working out)
It was good to spend that Christmas money on something for your health...I did as well...(3 new videos and a smoothie blender)
Well...now for the best news...I have lost another pounds, and am down to 189! I am finally in the 180's, and now have a 22 pound total loss! I am thrilled. From prior experience, when I get in the very low 180's to high 170's-that is when I usually go from a size 18 to a 16, so I am REALLY using that as motivation...I actually went and bought a pair of new Old Navy jeans in a size 16 that were on clearance a couple weeks ago-for further motivation. They are real cute-the dark rince with the faded out thighs and butt...(I will be sure to let you know as soon as they fit in about 8-12 more pounds!!) I have them out on my dresser instead of in my drawer, so I can see them every morning and let them motivate me with the yearning to be wearing them soon!!
Well, I better get going...I need to get my exercise done for the day!
Aphil

I don't know why I just couldn't sleep anymore. A nagging sore tooth may be to blame, it comes and goes.

I hope everyone had a wonderful weekend. I love to read about snow in other parts of the country, it must be fun to go sledding and ice skating. My kids have never seen snow, at least not that they can remember. Maybe one day we'll take a winter vacation someplace where they can play in the snow.

Aphil, applause, applause :cp: on you're entering the 180's! Great idea to put those jeans out in plain view as motivation! You inspired me to do the same. I cleaned out my dresser drawers and pulled those too small jeans out along with small t-shirts that I haven't been able to wear in so long and put them out in plain sight. I got to thinking, yes, I have lots of pretty things in my closet that I'd love to get back into, but it's those jeans and t-shirts I miss the most, those "everyday clothes" as my momma used to say. Thanks, Aphil for the idea!

Nancy, I am nowhere near ready (or have the time) to do something like join Curves (which I hear from friends around here is fabulous), but you motivated me to get on my bike and ride. Yesterday I rode over an hour! Now the tension is set very easy, and I didn't ride very fast, but I rode it. Whenever the idea of a snack crept into my head I'd yell at myself "Get on the bike!" or "Drink your water!" and I did. Sometimes yelling at myself is the only way to get my attention! :^:

Thanks for the inspiration, motivation and conversation.
Have a great day all!
upandaway

:^:

Good morning!
upandaway-when I was in the worst shape of my life, after my first child, I could not keep up with exercise videos-and I started out like you, with an exercise bike. I could only do 10-15 minutes on an easy resistance setting, but as time grew on, I could gradually inch up the resistance, and 15 minutes slowly became 20, then 25, and then 30-until I was doing a half hour at a decent resistance level each day. I then bought a 10 minute abdominal tape, which I started doing every other day...which I starting doing every other day...it doesn't matter how slow you start out, as long as you keep on doing it, and keep adding time, or difficulty, or weight as your fitness progresses. It is better to do a little and do it regularly, then to do too much and stop after a couple days. Once you are in the habit of regular exercise, you can move yourself up to a higher level.
I am also like you on the clothing thing...I totally had some awesome clothes I used to wear out to clubs and such...but it is the basice jeans, capri pants, and fitted t-shirts that I miss wearing and looking good in the most. :) I have a pair of size 16 white capri pants from when I was going down the weight loss ladder after my daughter, and I just loved them. I am hoping that they will fit just in time for March-along with my new jeans I have laid out on the dresser...
Well, I better get going. I have my exercise to do, as well as getting these children into the tub!
Move those buns today ladies!!!
Aphil

At this point I am wondering if my scale has fudged. Does anyone know how long the lifespan is on a scale (digital)? I just bought this one about a half a year ago. I swear I can get on that scale 3 times in a row and it never marks the same weight twice. Sometimes it will mark the weight loss and then I jump on again for verification and it will mark the weight gain but dramatically like 2 lbs. Before I could get on the scale and it would set to a number then I would hop off then take a minute to hop back on for verification and would show the same. Now that only happens sometimes. I don't know if I should invest in a new scale or what.

It' s like the scale DH bought for himself after a couple of weeks he broke. I knew my weight was about 200 and some at the time and I would hop on his scale and would register me at 160! I was like "Honey, I really like your scale don't get rid of it." LOL He never took it back although he should have.

Anhow I just wanted to ask that question. And also let you all know I am back in motion. It seems my throat infection has cleared up completely and I feel 100 %. I just got done using my twister for 5 minutes and I also did 4 miles on the elliptical. I feel sensational. I plan to do it again tonight. My family will be beginning our weight challenge next Sunday. I am really looking forward to it. I plan to give it my best effort. I hope that I will see some change on the scale even though school will be very involved this semester. Okay I will get out of here. I have to run to the post office for DH and then perhaps take the kids to the park.

Take care.
Kina

Good afternoon!!!
I just finished an excruciating 40 minutes of strenght training...wew!!! I have a major after workout rush though...:D
Kina-I have a little advice about scales. First of all, buy a nice one-not a cheap one. A cheaply made scale is most likely to be innacurate, or break down sooner. Second, do not keep your scale in your bathroom if it is small, and not very well ventilated, or there is any chance of it getting wet from kids in the tub. If your bathroom isn't well ventilated, the steam from the shower can also get inside. Third, weigh yourself in the same spot-moving around the scale on the floor can cause a pound or two difference, due to the uneveness of some floors. I try to keep mine in the same spot always-you can mark this by a towel bar, or shelf, or something to know that it is where it should be. Lastly, always weigh yourself at the same time everyday-preferably in your underwear or naked. I can weigh myself in jeans, a sweater, and shoes-and then weigh myself naked-and there will be a pound or two difference. The time of day can also cause a fluctuation, if you usually weigh yourself first thing in the morning, and then you weigh yourself right after dinner-there is going to be a difference. Try to keep weighing yourself to once or twice a week-not everyday. TOM, sodium intake, whether or not you have to go to the bathroom-these things can all make a difference. Your problem sounds mostly like the scale-due to it being different weighing yourself twice one right after another-but if you get a new one, try to keep it from getting wet or steamy, especially if it is digital. :) Hope that helps!
Another thing I would like to add to all of us ladies who are losing, or have lost a lot of weight is the talk of bras. It is very important-and I was reading that most women, like 70% are not wearing the proper bra size. You need to measure yourself to make sure you are, and measure again whenever you lose 10 pounds or so, or lose or gain a clothing size. The proper way to do this is to measure right up under your armpits for your band size-if it is an odd size, like 37-then go up to a 38 band size, and wear it on the tightest setting. (Most women wear too large a band size, and too small a cup size. I wore a 40D for a long time after having my daughter, and come to find out, I was a 38DD-afterwards I measured my 36C mother, who is actually a 36D!) Your bra cups should not be gapping out away from your body when you are standing up straight. If there is a bunch of space there, then your cup size is too small. The center of the bra should be up against your skin between your breasts. If there is "popping out" of breast at the top of the cups or under the armpits at all-your cup size is too small. (The only exception to this rule is a Wonderbra/pushup bra-where it is supposed to pop your breasts up and out, but these are not meant for everyday type wear anyway...:o It may feel a little more constricting around the midriff at first, but the cups will be much more comfortable, and you will have less of the bra "riding up" your back into your shoulder blades. We have to keep these things properly supported, lest they be at our knees in later years... :o
Well, I best be getting off for my after workout shower...you ladies take care, and have a good afternoon!
Aphil

Thanks Aphil. Let me give more info. I do follow many of the suggestions you gave me. My scale is in the kitchen to keep me from making bad choices. I always have it in the same spot whenever I weigh myself. I always weigh myself at the same time every time. The scale I bought back in like June 2002 was about 40 bucks. Hubby thought that was pretty outrageous for a scale but it was a motivational gift for myself. I had never owned a scale and I think that was a big problem in my way of life, at the time. TOM isn't an issue right now. As for the sodium, it could be but the scale should still register one weight no matter how many times I hop on that scale especially if it is right after one another. I think it is the scale. I am tempted to just go and get another but I don't want to be spending 40 bucks every 6 months.

Anyway. I am going to get going. I have to get the house in order because tonight is open house at the kids school. Talk to you all later.
Kina

I am really stopping the yo yoing, I havent been on here in months, and I am back to work. THe problem, low energy, tighter and tighter uniforms, and I feel bloated like im on prednisone.

I really need some support and reading here today has helped.. I was on the low fat diet, and did well for over 3 months before i moved back here to virginia, then the stress went up, and so did my eating. I measured myself today, and almost back to square 1, oh my..Thats it, for real ladies, How is everyone, and you all are wonderful.

My son turned 2 on Christmas eve, and boy is he active and smart, my goodness. So im going to chase h im around later, but start clean in the morning.. Do give me a boost i plan to use some slimfast... and watch everything i eat.

Where i work people are always giving out food and snacks but imma learn to say. no.!!! Dont need it but thanks, lol. well everyone, talk to yaal later thanks for everything.

T - Girl !!!!!!!!!!!!So glad you came back!!!!!!
You were missed :) you will soon be on your way to losing again. You can do this!!!!!!!! We can all do this together !!!

Amy, Way to go , you made it to the 180's I am so proud of you . You have been working so hard and its paying off big time!!! :dancer:

Kina, I think you should invest in a scale that is reliable for you. It is important to have accruacy, because we rely so much on the scale. Its a sad fact, but we all see the scale as a mood setter. When its down we are up, when it is up we are down. Go figure :)

Hello to everyone else,, I am headed out the door to Curves and I have also drank almost 64 ounces of water so far today..
Yippee!!

Be back later
Nancy:df:

Hello and good evening!
Kina-One more thing to try before you get another scale-since it is digital, try new batteries in it, and see if that helps out any! If not, I say get another scale. Don't worry about spending on one every six months, because the one I have has lasted over three years without a problem-this is probably just an isolated case.
Nancy-I am so glad that you are braving it and going to Curves again...and that the initial soreness hasn't scared you off from going! Anything to get you to do your regular exercise!
t-girl-I am so glad you are back. Don't beat yourself up about having your relapse and gaining weight. You came back, and have recommited, and that is what counts. If you find that you are still hungry or feel unsatisfied using Slim-Fast, let me know and I can give you plenty of ideas on healthy meals that are low in fat and calories, and high in nutrients.
Aphil :)

Hey everyone!!

Sorry this is so quick, but I have not had much time on the net since we got here!!

I am having a great time, eating ok, but not really good 100% of the time so I am dreading the WW meeting the day after we get back :(

I have put on 4 pounds according to the scales at the parents place, but that is ok for a 3 week christmas holiday.... and because I am pigging out on the canadian things we don't get in Australia like the BEER!!!

I will send a longer note when we get back, we leave in 24 hours and I am really sad about that!! I had a quick scan through the posts and seems like everyone is doing well!!

Nancy - - are you in Calgary yet?? We drove to Vernon to hang out with my uncle for 4 days and drove through Calgary.... I wondered if you were there yet!! Too funny eh?

Talk to everyone real soon!!

Nola.

Hi everyone! Just a quick note to say I survived the first day back at work yesterday OP! Yippee for me! Usually at the end of the school day when the rest of the staff stops by our office to raid the candy jar, I'm right there with the rest of them. But yesterday I made a point of saving some "have to do" work until then and removed myself from the location to do what I needed to get done. I was so proud of myself! The only thing was I forgot to get my yogurt out of the fridge to eat at the end of the day so by the time I picked up my kids from school I was "starving" (yeah, right) and the old thoughts started creeping in, hmm...McDonald's... Wendy's...but I was strong, I stood firm and held out until I could get to some water and chugged that to hold me over! It's amazing how one tiny little victory can you inspire you to go on.

I hope everyone has a terrific day, I'm planning to!
later, upandaway

Good thinking Up and Away! I am back to work this morning. So off to work I go. bye

Have a great day!
Kina

Good morning everyone!
Kanola-good to hear from you!
upandaway-aren't those small victories the greatest? my greatest victory thus far was not eating Thanksgiving dinner at my in-law's house, and just nibbling off of the veggie tray and having a diet dessert I made...my advice for when you forget your yogurt, etc. and are hungry-keep a small granola bar or box of raisins in your purse at all times.
Well, I have had a good day thus far-today I am going to do Pilates, which I do as a change of pace about once every two weeks. (It is really intense on your abs and back, even though it is slow and flowing like yoga.)
I better run off now, I have a lot to get done today!
Aphil

Hi everyone! Welcome upandaway! I hope you have another great day like yesterday! I read on someone's post: "fall down seven times, get up eight"! You are up! Good for you!
Great to hear from you, Nola! We've missed your posts and can't wait to hear about your trip!
Ladies, funny thing going on my house--DH is on a diet! Now, he has NEVER been overweight, but when he got on the scale and it said 207 (not too bad, he's 6'2''), he FREAKED! But it is too funny--everytime he goes to eat something, he asks my permission! I keep telling him he can eat whatever he wants (mind you there's nothing BAD in the house), he just has to watch his portions. I just have to chuckle--he's also REALLY cranky! I remember when I was just starting, I was really cranky! What's that they say about payback?? Apparently after Christmas, all the 'guys' in his office were comparing their waist sizes--wouldn't you have loved to be a fly on the wall??
Well, hope you're all having a super day. The next few weeks are crazy for me, so know that you're all in my thoughts!

tryin'hard-that is too funny!
Men usually have it so much easier though...naturally faster metabolisms and a naturally lower body fat percentage than women...my husband can drop a couple pounds just by cutting out his midmorning vending machine trip at work, and exercising a bit more.
Tell your husband not to worry-he can still eat what he wants, just have him use your treadmill or go walking with you, and maybe cut out a small habit he may have, such as a fattening bedtime snack, or something like that. It should do the trick if all he is wanting to lose is a couple of pounds-and he won't have to be cranky worrying about a diet! It is the little habits like these that we develop that put on the pounds-that mocha latte every week at the coffee shop, the lack of exercise, that candy bar from teh vending machine habit we may start at work...these are the things to watch out for...they creep up on you!
Have a good evening!
Aphil

Howdy Chickies!!!! :wave:

Just back from Curves and I feel good!!!!

The scale has not budged since my half pound gain after Christmas not what is up with that??? I am totally OP also! :shrug: Hope next week will show a loss!

Hang tough I say !!!! :lol:

Nola~~ Not moved to Calgary yet,(Bruce has) but funny you should mention Vernon, Bruce's niece lives in Vernon :)
I hope you had a great time while you were back in Canada.

Amy~~ Tell me about Pilates, you are the queen of exercise info ! :)

TryinHard~~ Men are too funny at times . Being a fly on the wall would be a hoot... As a matter of fact I bet they are asking each other all the time "Do these overalls make my butt look big " :lol:


UpandAway~~ Good for you for staying strong!!! You get the little happy dancer for your mini victory :dance:

Holly, DNW, T-Girl, Christine~~ How are you ?

Ok, am going to post a picture soon of myself at my top weight and then one of me recently. Prepare yourselves :lol:

Bye for now!

Nancy:df:

Ok still trying to post a pic,, says file is too big....duh...go figure I did weigh 304 pounds... :lol: :lol:


Nancy:df:

Still laughing at Nancy....:lol: :lol: that was a good one!
Good morning everyone!
Nancy-Pilates is a form of exercise that is strength training of your body's "core"-in other words the main trunk of your body-abdominal muscles, your entire back, and your buttocks. Basically your body without all of its appendages. :lol: It is a slow paced workout, free flowing like yoga-but strengthening movements like lying on your back and lifting the upper part of your body up like you were trying to sit up, and holding yourself in that position for a few seconds-or laying on your tummy, and lifting your head and shoulders off of the floor and holding it-to strengthen your back. I hope that explains it a bit!
:D
Don't worry about your lack of loss when you first start up exercising again, Nancy! You have to remember that you are building muscle now, and that it is possible for you to lose in inches while your weight stays the same some weeks! (So do take measurements as well as your WW weigh ins!) When my mother started working out over a year ago-she weighed 135-she was already small at a size 9, but she was flabby and out of shape. Now she weighs 130-only a loss of 5 pounds-but she is a size 6!!!!! :o That is what exercise does! She looks 15 pounds thinner, but in reality it is only 5-everything is just firmer and tighter and smaller now!
Well, I better get going-today is bellydancing day...woo! hoo!
Aphil

Hi everyone!

t-girl WELCOME BACK!!! so glad to hear from you again!!You were always such a positive and pumped voice for exercising. Yeah that you're back "on the wagon" :lol:

Nola! Hi! Glad that you're back in you old stomping grounds. But gosh, no 'cycle riding in this hemisphere at this time of year, eh?

Nancy, still giving you the virtual high five for joining Curves! Yes, definitely measure with a tape measure, maybe once a month. Because you'll be seeing the oh-so-nice changes in shape, not just pounds.

Amy, congrats !!! on being into the 180's now!! Keep those cute jeans out in sight for motivation!!

Hi tryin'hard! That is funny about your husband asking for permission to eat! Good luck to him, though he has such a role model in his house!

I am going to do my best to compete with you for maintaining, girlfriend!!:D

Hi Kina! So glad that your sore throat is all gone. What is the family challenge?

hi upandaway! Good for you for the bike riding, and for having those little victories, which really add up. Hope you're having a great day.

hi DNW, how are you doing? Are you feeling better by now, I hope?

I really need to tighten up my maintaining resolve. It has been very easy in the past few weeks to have formerly forbidden foods, and I have slacked big-time on drinking water, which I think has been leading to the false hungry feeling. I have GOT to get back to my regimen!! I have still been keeping up with almost daily exercise, so I think that has been my saving grace...but I can't skate long-term. Everyone please send me a mental kick in the rear! Ow! Thanks!!!

I think I might even go back into the archives here and read posts from last year to help inspire me...

Talk to you soon!

Your friend, Holly

I'm back - I need to post my weight to be serious about getting back on track = 145. I was at 142 right before Christmas, I believe.

Hey! I tried out a new exercise tape today - I'm pumped!! It's Gilad's "Split 45/45 Routine Workout", Volume 2, Toning. It has a 7 minute warmup; standing strength and toning for chest, shoulders, arms, waitst, hips and thighs; then floorwork for abs, outer thighs, inner thighs and butt.

Man, I was straining to finish each set! That is good, because I have not been pushing myself lately during my routines. They have become relatively easy; I haven't been straining or "feeling that burn"! so I definitely need to challenge myself further, and this tape is gonna do it.

I am so excited about how these changes in my routine might look in a month or so! Maybe this will be how I can finally shape my legs so I am content with them.

"Feeling the burn", Holly

Good for you Holly! I love how at Collage video it shows you what level the exercise tapes are-I am intermediate to advanced on toning/strenght training videos, but I still need beginner videos on Pilates and Yoga-I am still working on my flexibility-and beginner aerobics type videos. I cna do the moves and all, but it is the stamina that I have trouble with as far as having my heart rate elevated for so long-after I while I can start huffing and puffing... :(
I am still cracking up at Nancy and her sarcasm with the "before" photo being too large to post...that was just priceless!
Aphil

TGIF Everyone! Fridays are tough for me, the classes I have are a 'challenge', to put it kindly. It's a good thing I have two days off to recoup afterwards! Still hanging in there. Yesterday could have been better. DS turns 12 today and we got his birthday cookie. One tiny slice, when I wanted the whole thing! The water and veggies took a slide too, but the exercise was on track and the attitude is strong, so hey, I'm hanging in there. Hope everyone has a great day on the way to a great weekend.
upandaway

OMG! You ladies, I am SO upset it's beyond describing and that is why I didn't get on here yesterday. But I am going to briefly describe the trauma that I have been subjected to, along with my son. Seeing that I will be dropping off my children at school from now on.

Yesterday afternoon, when the children were expected, I heard the bus from down the street. Like every day I went out to the door so the driver can see me and will stop in case he is a sub-driver. Well of course he didn't stop even though I was out there screaming. So then he does stop finally a little bit late but somewhat in front of the house. So Vianca gets off and I am motioning to the driver to stop there is one more to get off. And he is looking at me and I hand-motioning "one more". Well without noticing, like I noticed, my son gets off the bus and as my son starts to walk across the street-half way past the engine-the busdriver takes off his warning signals and begins to accelerate with my son right in front of his bus....OMG! I start to scream and motion with hands again. My son hears the engine moving and begins to run across to the sidewalk. OMG I got on the phone and started calling the safety director of the man driving. I was crying over the phone. I cried all day and I think I cried most of the night. I went to bed at about 8:30 because I was exhausted from crying and woke up at 2am and tossed and turned the rest of the night. Just the other day I was telling my son, Mark Anthony, that he never tells me he loves me and that he should. He said " I don't tell you because I love you. You know I love you. " I told him no you should always say not just figure the other person knows. So yesterday I finally was out of shock I just hugged him for the longest time and I told him if something had happened to you I would never be able to hear you tell me you love me. See why it is important for you to say it. After that he would tell me over and over. I guess my crying was more about what possibly could of happen. I can't even describe my terror. I was crying when I called DH...OMG he got even more pissed. He went out there and starting a ruckus and demanded for the safety of all children that that driver undergo a drug test. So he would not be working today since he would be getting a drug test. Thank God. But for that reason I will be driving them and picking them up from now on.

So with that I better get going they want to get to breakfast.
Bye.
Kina

Good morning everyone!
Kina-so sorry to hear how upset you were over what happened yesterday with the bus. It seems that you are even more a protective mother than I am-and I thought I was bad. ;) My children have never even had a babysitter that wasn't a grandparent-I just can't seem to trust anyone to watch them but their grandparents. (And I am sure that if that day ever comes, that I will be the mom with the nanny cams all over the house!) :lol: I hope that you are feeling better about things today.
upandaway-I hope your "hard" exercise classes go well today! When my kids get a little older, I may start taking a class outside of the home just for a change of pace, and to meet new people. Our local YMCA has a lot of classes that they offer-like Pilates, aerobics, yoga-etc.
My in-law's are coming up this evening to come and get the kids for the weekend-they just emailed me last night about it-so it looks like my husband and I will have tomorrow all to ourselves-that will be really nice.
Today is strength training day for me-which usually takes about 50 minutes for my whole body-and it is pretty intense. I am really looking forward to today's workout.
Holly-here is that kick in the butt you wanted! :drill:
have a good day!
Aphil

Kina: Wow...I can understand how upset you could be...you know these bus companies will hire anyone and in NYC there have been dozens of scandals over the years with the problem of incompetent drivers and buses that are just not safe..where I live in Jersey we have had some problems too...I am so sorry you had to go through that.

Vermont: Pilates...I get couriouser and curiouser about it...saw your Xmas picture...very inspiring.

Snowey: You were 304....I am now very motivated because I can see that if you can do it I can do it.

Aphil: You always give the best advice. That's why I like to visit here.

Tryinhard: I wish my husband would try to watch what he eats, he is actually only about 30 lbs. overweight but losing that would really help his Diabetes and he thinks cheese is a required food group..and he's a nurse so he knows better....-a-a-g-g-h-h men :mad:

upandaway: Giant birthday cookies...that's a hard one...congrats on just one small slice..

Kanola: Hope you have a safe trip back and sorry you are so sad to leave..

Now my good news. I started positing at 3fc on 9/11/02 and I had just given blood the month before and found once again my cholesterol (which was never a problem before I went into Menopauseland) was 215...my nurse practitioner said I would have to start medications if it didn't come down. Also the old glucose was starting to creep up too.

Gave blood on 12/4/02 and just got my blood donor card in the mail. Cholesterol is now 194!!!!! :dance: :dance: :dance:

I am so happy and I bet my heart is happy too...with only a 13 lb. weight loss and some exercise and a change in food I accomplished something very good for my body and don't have to take another pill..this is the best news for me and I wanted to share it with you all.

Take care and sorry if I missed saying Hi to anyone else out there.

DNW-I am so glad that you have good news with your blood levels going down! That is so fantastic!!!!! I know exactly how you feel, and how you feel about your husband and his diabetes. Along with wanting to look and feel better-another goal of mine with getting fit is to keep from getting full fledged diabetes. When I was a gestational diabetic, I didn't like how it made me feel, plus the burden of checking my blood sugar all of the time, and the possible scary things if you do not keep it under control. (I do a fasting blood sugar test first thing in the morning about twice a week, just to make sure things are still good for me, and not turning that way.) I know how important the health benefits are of getting fit-and like you said, even a relatively smaller weight loss of 5-15 pounds can greatly help with heart problems, or back pain, or other health issues. I am happy for you! :D
Today starts the dreaded TOM...I don't PMS all that much, but let me tell you, the first day of TOM-EVERY TIME-I just feel like eating carbs all day long! The past couple months I have given myself permission to have a couple hundred extra calories each month on this one day-up to 1800 instead of trying to keep it around 1500, and that seems to help-but I still hate that feeling. I am trying to take it hour by hour, until today is through!!What else can you do?
Well, I need to get in the shower and get the rest of this house straightened up before the inlaws get here this evening...you ladies have a wonderful day!
Aphil

Aphil: Thanks for the thumbs up on my annoucement. I am glad I am at the point in my life where my health matters more than how thin I'll be. Wish I'd felt that way years ago!

Hello everyone!

Kina - OMG, how terrifying that must have been. I am so glad that he was not actually injured. But I'm sure you saw that in your mind a million times over. You have done all you can now, what with notifying the authorities, and now being responsible yourself for taking/picking up from school (whew!)

DNW, congrats on the lower cholesterol!!! and for being a blood donor, you are one of the "everyday heroes"! I am at my #31 pint donation, and feel proud each time I do it.

Thank you, Sargeant Aphil, for the kick in the pants, may I have another one, ma'am? (just kidding! the one should do it!:lol: )

Hi upandaway, tryin'hard, Nancy, t-girl, Kanola, and everyone else!

My gripe for the day - when people are crabby at you, and make a big deal out of little things - I'm doing counter-work at a sandwich shop/bakery for the winter, so am dealing with hungry people all day...one guy actually rolled his eyes at me, when I told him we were out of the type of soup he wanted (it WAS crossed out on the board, indicating we were out of it, and geez, we had ONLY 3 others to choose from :lol:) and it just irked me so much when he looked so wounded and "put-upon" - I felt like smacking him upside the head, and saying "don't be such a big baby!"

AND, by honest mistake, I gave the last sesame bagel to someone other than whom it was supposed to go to - I apologized profusely, and offered the other 4 varieties - this guy doesn't acknowledge my apology, ALSO rolls his eyes, chooses a different bagel, then sarcastically says, "and don't give it away to someone else this time." People are STARVING in other parts of the world, some folks don't have the resources to eat in restaurants ever, and sure, it's okay to be disappointed, but don't be such a friggin' baby about it...okay, ranting over! :D

Have a nice night!

Your friend, Holly

Thanks you guys! Today was better. Of course I had to get up and take the kids to school. I went and picked them up after school. It's a big adjustment. Mark Anthony, the one who was involved in the near miss situation, said he didn't have enough time for breakfast. So I have to get them there a bit earlier next time. So there is plenty of room for adjustment. I just hope that I will be able to uphold this once school begins next week. It's going to be difficult, but for th safety of my children I will fly to the moon if that's what it takes.

Aphil~~~Oh don't be silly...I think as a mom we have no boundaries as to how protective we could be once we are put into situations. I think it is exactly what any mother would have done...but then nowadays there are so many mothers who don't give a darn.

OMG...speaking of did any of you see that newscast of the lady who left her 7yr old and 4yr old alone for like 3 weeks because she went to meet some guy she had met on the internet. She was totally sane, but not sane, in other words she knew what she was doing and she intentionally did it, leave the children alone that is. She gave the older one instructions of do's and don'ts and left them so much food and left. What the heck was she thinking...oh and her parting words of affection to her oldest was "Wish me luck that this works out." Meaning her meeting this online guy would become grow into something. Good God! I'm sorry when women do things like that they should make it a rule that they instantly undergo some sort of tubuligation or hysterectomy so that they won't have anymore children that they could possibly harm...mentally, physically, verbally and any other possible way!

Whew! Sorry about that. I just can't swallow that one and be okay with it. I love my children and would never dream of living without them and that is including my "special" son who I don't consider less than my own, born from my womb.

DNW~~~Big CONGRATS go out to you! Any success is worth an applause. At this point seeing that I am on a plataeu I will take anything I can account for a success. Even if it means patting myself on my back for the simple fact that I drank my 8 glasses of water. You keep it up and take a *bow*!

UPandAway~~~It's good to see the old willpower is working. Hey we have nothing to rely on but ourselves so might as well fight for what want. And well then we are only normal we have to once in a while enjoy lifes little pleasures. But just a "little" at a time.

Kanola~~~Long time no see. How have you been doing?

Nancy~~~I didn't mean to dismiss your wonderful accomplishment...I just didn't notice it at the end of your post the other day. Lady, did you know you are melting away faster than an ice cube in Texas! You have got to be so proud of yourself and then EXERCISE...OMG! STEP OUT OF THE WAY and ROLL OUT THE RED CARPET! You go girl!

Holly~~~Those jerks! I swear some people can be so rude! You just smile and be your wonderful self! That will get them good! LOL

Okay I know that there are plenty I didn't mention but I love you anyway!

I am going to go and get a perm tomorrow...I think. I am kind of nervous since it has been a couple of years now since I had my last perm. Actually since I had my old perm cut off from the ends of my hair. Since then I have just had it so straight. I hate my straight hair I can't do a darn thing with it. I think it is straight and fine but others think I have thick hair. Well if that were the case I would think styles would hold better but they don't. The only time I was happiest with my hair was when I had it permed, ver tight curl and long. So I think I am not going to think about it and just go do it otherwise it won't get done.

So okay I'm getting up early tomorrow for our girl day. I told my little one if she sits still for mommy to get her hair done I will take her to get a manicure. She is all excited about it. So hopefully she will sit still. I better get out of here. Oh one more thing if my messages become sort of sparse it is because school started and also my part time job at the college. Okay talk to you all later.
Toodles...Kina

Hi!
Kina-that "girl day" is so cute! When I put on my makeup, my daughter sits and waits until I am done, and then I have to put chapstick and a little eyeshadow on her-I usually use an almost bare pink or tan color-but she just loves it! I have a special Gingerbread flavored chapstick in my makeup box just for her. :)
VermontMom-Honey, I know how people can be working in retail. When I was a hairdresser, I managed a salon-and there was this old lady that used to come in, and have me giver her a perm. It would turn out great, and then she would come in two days later with it all out and complain to the owner to have me give her a free redo...well, after the third time, I told the owner that she HAD to be doing something purposely to come in and get free redos...I personally thought that she was one of those old ladies with no life, and liked coming in and getting all of the attention and free coffee, etc. Well-I sortof asked her trick questions the last time and found out that she was going home and putting a deep conditioner on her hair as soon as she left the salon. My boss told her that she basically screwed her guarantee because I had specifically told her not to wash or condition her hair for 48 hours after each perm. Some people-to make me keep redoing her out of my pocket ON PURPOSE! :mad:
The kids are gone with grandma, so I think today I am going to go out and do some "girl things"...shopping alone, and the like. have a good day everyone!
Aphil

Hi ya'll! Ooops that Texan accent just jumps out of my mouth every now and again. But just dropped in to share with you all my new look. I got my brainiac glasses on. Looks like I am ready to hit the books. You can't really tell I got a perm since my hair is so dark but maybe when the sun is shining I might get another pic of me outdoors.

Aphil~~~Dh is really old fashioned when it comes to make-up, even lip gloss, for the girls. A long time back I had to argue about the nail polish. Ultimately I had to tell him well she is half mine so if you don't want nail polish on her that is fine but I will polish the half that is mine. LOL He gave in with some compromising. Her nails look so pretty but she was a little upset because the guy went a bit too far on one of her cuticles. I told her to tell him if it hurt but she is too proper to correct somebody older than her.

I am going to try and post a pic of little bitty nails. BRB!
Kina

Here is the pic of my little one's nails. They look so shabby. I would of posted the pics of her sitting at the nail booth but DH was against posting a pic of her on the web. Understandeable.

I think she enjoyed herself. Now let's see if this is going to work. See you all tomorrow after my workout.

Kina

Just wanted to pop in and say hello, am in a funk today. I think Im just missing Bruce... :(
But I did get my butt out to curves today, but feeling like I want to eat everything in sight. Maybe it is PMS who knows.
Still could not get my pics posted on here for some reason, but if you want to see them send me a pm and Ill give you the addy of the place to go .
I am going to do the WATP's workout tomorrow and then back to curves on Monday (they are closed on Sunday)

Kina,,, I love the new pic! You are so pretty and I do love the glasses! I bet your little girl had a ball getting her nails done also :)

Ok Im outta here,

Night everyone..

Nancy:df:

Good Sunday morning everyone!
Kina-I like the perm! Your daughter's nails are so cute! Did she pick out the color herself? My husband is alright with a little makeup play with Jasmine, as long as it is light colors-and flavored chapstick or Lip Smackers type stuff and not "lipstick."
Nancy-if you don't have my email addy still, you can email me at mom2raiandjas@lycos.com and let me know where to go to see your before and after pics. It may help with putting them up here, if you have a scanner, or another way to shrink them down-since the saved file has to be of a smaller size. You should be able to shrink it on a scanner, and save it in your computer smaller, and post that up.
Well, I hope everyone is doing well. I seem to be maintaining this week, after last weeks 3 pound loss-so I am not complaining. I am looking forward to the scale moving down again a bit this week. :) It is the 12th, and we have 19 days left of the January challenge! I really want to stress the exercise again-as is the focus of this challenge, rather than the scale this month. I really want to see some firmer thighs and flatter abs emerging from everyone for spring!:D Nancy is really doing great. (The Walk Away the Pounds is a great way to get your cardio in on the days you don't go to Curves and do your strength training!) I really want everyone to focus over the next 2 1/2 weeks and really put their heart into their exercise. Holly-I am glad that you got that new video to challenge you more! You always know when it is time to up your weights, or change workouts when it feels like your weights are flying through the air, and you are not getting that burn anymore! My goal is to really get more out of my cardio workouts over the next couple weeks, and to really push my leg and bun exercises when I strength train. For some reason, the "burn" is always a lot more bearable and even pleasurable in my upper body and abs...but in the legs and buns it almost kills me in some exercise sets! :lol: I know this is where I am weak, and I am going to try to advance a little.
Well, everyone have a fabulous day! I sure am!
Aphil

Good morning everyone!

Kina, you look so pretty! I'm glad your perm turned out great, and your "brainiac" :lol: glasses are very flattering! II wish I could wear my prescription sunglasses all the time; my regular glasses are so strong for my terrible near-sightedness, they make my eyes appear so small.. oh well.

aphil, you had to pay for that deceitful woman's perms yourself? Argh!!! Glad she was "outed"!

Nancy, yeah for keeping up the Curves!!! I'm so sad that you must be missing your husband...the things we have to go through sometimes are tough...I tell myself "and, this too, shall pass".

I'm still excited about the slight change in my exercise routine, because I can feel some soreness, which I haven't felt in ages. Different ab work; and thighs, particularly. There is some floorwork on the Gilad tape that I abhor - you know, those darn "donkey kicks"/raises things - I was all wobbly afterward! But I remember how I was a year ago; I will work these slack leg muscles and get them like tree trunks! well, shapely tree trunks :lol:

Hello to eveyone else and Happy Monday! tho it's gray and cold and snowy here - well, duh, that's what I get for living in Vermont. Hey, only 105 days 'til our road trip!:lol: :lol:

Your friend, Holly

Good morning everyone!
Holly-The slight routine change will make a great difference in your routine! I have a lot of videos, so I rotate them pretty regularly-your body can get used to doing the same old thing and you will find that you are not burning as many calories if you keep doing the same thing over and over for an extended period of time. You have to keep giving it "surprises" now and then! For walkers, treadmill walkers, and eliptical trainers-the best way to "surprise" your body is to add small intervals at a faster pace. Say you walk on your treadmill at a speed of 3 miles per hour for 30 minutes-do it for 5 minutes, and then do a minute of a faster pace-say 4mph-do the 3mph for another 5 minutes and then another minute at 4mph and so on. You will elevate your heart rate and burn more calories this way. If you do aerobic videos, the best way I think is to change routines-I rotate my Denise Ausin areobics tapes with my bellydancing practice. My body never knows what is coming! ;)
Today is going to be a good day. I woke up early at 6, bellydanced for 30 minutes-had breakfast and have gotten the kids bathed and fed. They are excited, as my mother is coming to visit for the afternoon. She is such a big kid with them. I have made an appointment to take the cat in tomorrow to be declawed and spayed. I am working on laundry-and getting things accomplished. It feels good for the day to be going smoothly. I am also so excited-as my husband has bought me new living room furniture. I have been needing it for about 5 years now-all of our living room furniture is hand me down from other family members-and the couch especially is in bad shape. I wanted new last tax time but he talked me into spending it on redoing his motorcycle. :^: Well, there was a big sale over the weekend-and the set I have been eyeing for a year were included-and he let me have my way! I am excited beyond words-the only new furniture we have gotten since we have been together is our kitchen table and chairs, and the baby furniture. (I am crafty and have done a lot with paint and wall hangings-but there isn't really anything you can do with a 20 year old couch! :lol: ) The set is really pretty-the color of coffee with cream in it-a taupe color-and it has a nubuck suede type of upholstry, and the tables are slate tiled tops in earthtone colors-mostly grey, charcoal and taupe on the tiles. It looks like something that Frasier Krane would have in his apartment-for those of you who watch that show. (The couch actually looks a lot like his!:lol: )
So-Jason has gotten his brownie points for the next century!
Oh-I have a recipe for all of you cookie lovers! My mother in law just gave it to me!
LOW FAT OATMEAL COOKIES
1c. flour
1c. quick cooking oats
1/2c. sugar
1/2t. baking powder
1/2t. baking soda
1/2t. salt
1/2t.cinnamon
2 egg whites
1/3c. corn syrup
1t. vanilla extract
1/3c. raisins
Combine first 10 ingredients in a bowl-mix well. Stir in raisins. Drop by tablespoonfuls onto baking sheets that have been sprayed with Pam. Bake at 375* for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned. Makes 30 cookies-2 1/2 dozen. Each cookie is 51 calories and only has a trace amount of fat-since there are no egg yolks or oil or butter added.
(f you make larger cookies, say-24-you can figure out the calories by multiplying the 51 calories by 30-and then dividing it by how many cookies you actually made.)
This is one of the lowest calorie cookie recipes I have found. To make it even healthier, you can replace the regular flour with whole wheat flour if you want to.
Everyone have a fabulous day, get your exercise-and I will check in with you later!
Aphil

So much news to read!
Aphil--enjoy your couches! DH says I can't get new ones until DD stops climbing over the arms and over the back!
Kina--you look beautiful! My mom gave me my one and only perm in high school and burnt off my hair! I had little "stubbies" growing on top for a while!!
I know we've talked a lot about PMS before, but something I've been doing since the summer has really helped. I double my workouts the week I'm having PMS. I either walk extra or run on the treadmill or do some extra sit ups. It makes me remember that I'm being good to myself and if I do eat a little more (love those carbs!), I've already worked it off. Try it!!
Holly--I'm so proud of you for stepping up your workouts! You are my inspiration! My daughter takes karate and her instructor also teaches karate-aerobics and has offered me an unbelievable deal--I can go to three classes a week for $10 a month! I can't NOT do it! The class he gives is a killer, but you feel SO good after you finish! I wish you could all come do it with me!
Well ladies, back to work! Hope you're all having a great day!

Hey girls!! Great to see so many posts from everyone!

Kina - great photo!! Lookin awesome!

Nancy - :grouphug: I hope you are feeling better! I know what it is like to miss the man in your life. Life sucked so bad for me when hubby and I were apart for months! at least you are in the same country now! Keep up the great work staying on plan!

tryin'hard - that is a great deal! You will love those classes!

Holly - you are such an inspiration! Great to hear you are staying so focused and keeping the weight off! The road trip sounds so amazing! You are going to have a blast!

Everyone else.... hope your week is going good too!

Well I am back on plan after the holiday in Canada. It was just so awesome to see everyone again, but the scales were not kind to me as I put on 2.5 kilos (5.5 lbs) in 3 weeks!! How gross!

I am doing WW week one this week so I hope to have a good result and get this extra weight off in the next 2-3 weeks.... I was so close to my second goal!! GRRRRRR!!!

Having said that, it was great to know that I could eat whatever I wanted, got to enjoy the hospitality of all my friends, eat at a fast food place while on the road, and knew that in a few weeks back in Aus I would be ok again! That is a great feeling of control!

Well... I must get ready for work and get on with the day. Another day totally on plan!!! yay!!

Keep up the good work everyone!!

Good afternoon! :)

It sounds like everyone is having a fantastic day.

I just got home from work and am getting ready to change clothes and head off to curves! I really do look forward to it.

I also purchased some colorful laser star stickers and have put them on the calendar for every day that I have exercised. Its is nice to see all that color already and the month is only half over :lol:


WW starts up again on Wednesday, so hopefully the scale will be kind to me.

Nola~~ Welcome home, glad to see you made it back to the land
down under safe and sound :)

Ok Ill be back to post more later have a great afternoon!


Nancy:df:

Good evening everyone!
I just took a peek at Nancy's before and after pics-it is just amazing! Not only from 300+ pounds until now, but from her wedding picture in 2001 compared to now! (I believe she said she was 20 pounds thinner now then at her wedding-but don't quote me on that!)
The kids had a good visit with my mother-and I tried to show her a few bellydancing moves-which is totally funny in itself, because she is amazingly uncoordinated. She told me to if I ever wanted to buy her a dance video, I better see if they make a kindergarten level! :lol:
I have done well today-exercised, my calories came in at around 1500-and I am drinking my water. Things are looking good-or at least they soon will be as I look forward to dropping some more weight over the next few months!
Have a good evening ladies!
Aphil

Good morning all!

*Sigh*, I'm still having issues with slipping into bad habits...the exercise is right on track, even stepped up with the newer challenging tape, but why am I wanting to eat stuff that is just extra calories and not even satisfying?...At least there's no junk in the house, or even good crackers anymore, so I'll have some cereal, half a bagel...aha! It's the darn starches/carbs that I'm craving.

It could be my usual winter syndrome; winter up here is really long, with reduced sunlight; what is it, seratonin levels that are reduced with that?

I think I'm just rambling now, like thinking in my head but making you guys subject to it :D Hopefully this will pass, and I will get back to drinking the water and not snacking mindlessly. Since I'm on track with the exercise, maybe if I just try to focus on getting the water in me, that will be a small victory to bolster me with the snacking /carbs issue. :?:

Well, everyone have a great day!!!! thanks for being my listening board!!!

Holly

Good morning everyone!
Holly-I hear you about the winter blues! It is an actual fact that some women get depressed in the winter due to the setatonin and vitamin D levels being reduced due to lack of sunlight. If you are not a sun phobic SPF70 type, an easy way to remedy this is to go to the tanning bed once or twice a week. It really does help-as the rays in the beds are the same that naturally produce these levels in the body. I don't recommend that anyone be one of those people who go every day for years and are "fake looking"-but I do like a natural peachy tone to my skin rather than the color of wallpaper paste-so I tend to go once or twice a week in the spring and summer.
As far as your reverting back into old habits-this is where your kick in the butt begins! :lol: I want you to get out a pice of paper, and draw a line down the middle, dividing it in half. On one side, write down all of the reasons that you love being fit-like your motorcycle pants, wearing negligees for your husband-whatever you can posibly think of. On the other side, I want you to write down what you like about being heavy-I am sure that other than eating whatever you want, whenever you want-that the fit list will beat it out hands down. Keep this list, and read it a few times throughout the day. Keep it on your mind. Tape it to the "carb" cabinet if need be. Something else that may help is to avoid eating the simple carbs like white bread/bagels alone. Always eat them with a protein source, such as a dairy product or some source of meat or peanut butter. This will keep the blood levels from fluctuating as much, making you crave more carbs. (This goes for anyone that has trouble keeping in control when eating simple carbs) It may also help to keep the bagels out of the house and to alert the co-workers of yours from letting you have any-and to keep your starch foods to whole grain breads, cereals like Kashi and Shredded wheat and pastas-Creamette has their whole wheat pastas now at most grocery stores and they are rather good. There are some foods that are overeating triggers for me, and it is best if I just not eat them altogether-because once I start, I cannot stop! (animal crackers are one of these foods)
If you are still hovering a pound or two above where your goal weight was, you might try a week of going back to 1500 calories as well-to get it back down, and to jumpstart getting your maintenance back on track. The maintenance is definitely the hardest part of the journey. Keeping these changes in your exercise and diet for the rest of your life is the true challenge. We are all committed here to help you maintain the loss that you worked so hard for, Holly! You can do this!
One of my goals as a lifestyle change is to get in at least one or two servings of dairy each day-I am not a dairy person, and it is the hardest for me. I went out and bought a large sampling of light yogurts of different brands and flavors-trying a new one each time, in hopes of finding one that I truly love, and that won't seem like a chore fitting it in everyday. I found one I really like, and encourage all of you to try it if you haven't yet. It is Yoplait Light yogurt in the flavor Strawberry Orange Sunrise. I had not seen this one before-and tried it today, and it is really good! I also bought their Orange Creme flavor, I will let you all know about that one tomorrow. I am a really picky yogurt eater, I don't like vanilla flavor, or some of the brands that are on the lumpy side-or that are too tart tasting. Mild, smooth, and fruity are more my thing. (I used to love Healthy Choice chocolate yogurt, but they quit making that a long time ago.)
Well, everyone have a fantastic day-get in that exercise, and drink that water. We have 16 days of the challenge left!
Aphil

OOOOw Nancy I want a peek at your before and after. I need something to get me going again. I have been a very blue mood ever since that near scare of my son and the bus. So looking at you I know that if you can do it I can find the will as you have. I'm trying to count calories but I think my problem now is that I am afraid to eat anything because I don't want to exceed the 1500 cals. I don't know how to get over that hump.

Okay well i am off to have dinner with my mom and weigh in for the new challenge. I will talk to you all later.
Kina

Oh! Thank you all so much for the wonderful compliments on my hair. I was not so pleased the first day but once I put some effort into it I was more comfortable with it. So I will talk to you all later.

Hello!

I logged on here, with the intent of happily telling of my very good day - and receive even more positive reinforcement from Aphil! Thank you!

Even though I am very "iffy" about breakfast, I went back to my old-routine of 1/2 cup Kashi "Good Friends" cereal, mixed with 1 cup non-fat, light yogurt. Had a 1/2 sandwich with 3 1/2 ounces deli turkey, lettuce/tomato/honey mustard. Drank 2 litres of water. Mid-afternoon cup o' joe with a granola bar. Sensible dinner with lots of greens included. Feeling GOOD and in control!!!! :) Now to keep going well through the evening...I feel that I can!

Aphil, again thanks for the helpful ideas. I am going to do that page this evening; maybe a couple of copies to have laying around. I have always been leery of tanning beds, just 'cause of the premature aging of skin, but I am very welcome to the though of some extra light to help fight the winter blues. I think the warmth would also feel wonderful! Thanks again!!!

Kina, I finally got "before" and "after" pictures together...just face shots, but the "before" shows the roundness and the double chin! And the second one I think just shows how happy I felt that day; my husband was taking pictures of me and (of course!) the motorcycle by the lake; it was a beautiful day and I was just so..."fulfilled" feeling. Hopefully they will appear below, without too much trouble of resizing problems...

WOW! Holly there is so much difference...and my goodness that is just in your face. So there is hope becuase even without being overweight i had a slight double chin...but i was really scared after losing the weight I may be left with a gooseneck. So I have some hope. All I can say is WOW! You are such an inspiration.

Well you guys...I went and weighed in on my mom's scale and sad news...212 lbs on her scale! YIKES. Way more than I want to admit to. Of course my scale says different. All I know is that I need to get moving. It's too late for me to get moving tonight because the sound of my machine will get bird whistling like crazy. But Friday I will be at the gym at school to do some weights perhaps or use the rowing machine. SOMETHING! ANYTHING! I will also get into my routine of exercise and probably do it right after work because that is when I get sluggish and need a natural boost instead of chocolate...hah easier said than done.

Well that slap of reality (212) was exactly what I needed. The bank is worth 250 bucks let's see if I can pocket this one?

I am off to shower and then to bed. Nighty night!
Kina

Great photos Nancy!!!

The biggest difference is your eyes.... the 'new' you just seems to sparkle! You are so purely happy in that photo!

Well.. I am back on track, had a good week so far. I have not made it to the gym yet this week but I sure have been out walking in this aussie heat! tomorrow is to be 36 Celcius, which equals stinkin hot :( We need to win the lotto so we can have a house with a pool!!!

Missed that Canadian snow today for sure! (and my mom and dad of course!) :(

I hate to write a bit and then run... but it is bed time over here and there is just one more day of the work week left and then it is the WEEKEND!! yay!!!

Take care everyone!

Good morning everyone!
Holly-I have to say-you have a gorgeous smile! You must have been having a good day in the second picture, because you are glowing!
Kina-Anytime I have ever had a perm, I have never been pleased with it the first day-I never like it until I am able to wash it and the roller marks are out of my head!:lol: That is just a normal part of getting it done-a couple hours of torture, 48 hours of bad hair day, and then it is all good! :lol:
Don't be afraid to eat anything just because you are trying to watch your calories. It is very important toeat the calories that I have broken down for you at each meal. If you don't have that anymore, write it down and put it on the fridge.
Breakfast-300
lunch-400
snack-100
Dinner-600
snack-100
You CAN go over or under a little bit on your calories, the idea is the be as close to 1500 each day as possible, and it will even out each week. You just really need to find some foods and meal combinations that fit into your lifestyle, and become more familiar with how to figure the calories in your foods you cook at home. For instance, a 300 calorie breakfast can consist of the following:

1 slice of toast-70 calories (average for bread, check your label)
1 tablespoon of peanut butter on toast-95 calories
1 cup orange juice-120 calories
total-285 calories
(most packages of peanut butter say 190 calories for 2 tablespoons, so it would be 95 for 1-this is how you figure the calories! It isn't so hard when you get used to it! :) )
Here is another idea:
1 packet of instant oatmeal-120-140 calories (depends on flavor)
1 cup of skim milk-90 calories
1 banana-100 calories
310-330 calories
There are a lot of things that you can eat, you just really need to get used to the idea of counting, and finding out what low low calorie foods are out there that you enjoy.
As for your two snacks-here are a lot for around 100 calories
small apple-80
banana-100
Jello Fat Free pudding cup-100
Sugar Free Jello cup-10
1T. peanut butter on a stalk of celery-105 (95 for spread, 10 for celery stalk)
4 Hershey Kisses-100 (This is great for a chocolate craving, when you don't want all of the calories of a full size candy bar)
1c. orange or apple juice-120
1 Yoplait light yogurt-100
I don't want you to be afraid to eat, Kina, but you just need to get used to a new eating lifestyle, always being aware of what you are eating, because when you eat without thinking about it, that is where all of the extra calories come into play.
You have been doing so well with your exercise, and lost a lot of weight-learning new eating habits I can see is going to be the most difficult for you to grasp. For Nancy it was exercising, for Holly and myself it is avoiding the carbohydrate binges...we all have our weak points, and we are all here to help you through yours. I want you to succeed. If there is anything that you are not understanding, or that you are afraid of messing up-then please talk to us! We are here with you 100%
Aphil

Just thought I would expand on Apil's post.....

WRITE IT DOWN!

One of the best tips I had in my first weight watchers meeting was when one of the girls who had reached lifetime gave a talk of how she reached her goal.... this phrase has been implanted on my brain.....

You bite it - - - - - You write it

If you can't be honest on a piece of paper that only you see.... then you can't be honest about your weight loss progress.

I bought a nice 12 week tracker diary from WW and when that was used up, I took advantage of the sales on diaries after the new year and splurged to get one that has a day to a page. It is a hard cover, bright blue with dolphins all over it. I also bought a nice pen that I keep clipped in the binding of the book. I carry it all over with me in my backpack during the week and even in my gearsack on the motorbike on the weekends!! It is easy to mentally forget what you eat and those are the snacks that can make you a success or not.

I also use the diary to plan out our meals for the week, plan my lunches and schedule snacks to stay within my point values. I also record my weight and measurements in this diary too!!

There is also fitday.com but I found that when I am busy at work I would not have the time to always update it and see where I am for the day. It might work better for others though!

Just my 5 cents (no pennies in Aus!) worth of advice for today!

Nola.

Hi Ladies! Thanks for the words of wisdom. Today was a well rounded day. My first day into my family weight challenge and I think I did pretty good. I don't have time to exercise in the mornings anymore because I drive the kids to school. That may change...the picking up part wasn't so bad because the bus stops with the door facing the house. So I might consider letting them get on the bus in the mornings but still pick them up after school.

Anyway as I mentioned my day went pretty good, even though my teacher called me Vanessa...oops. But I didn't get a chance to fix something healthy for breakfast and usually I grab burrito if I don't get something from the house...aaah I LOVE burritos yum. I even exercised this afternoon which really perked up the funk that I have been in lately in addition helped me to overcome the most sluggish part of my day.

I was mostly proud of my food intake but then I kind of slid downhill and you will see where that is, this is my food intake for the day...

Breakfast....a medium pear
Snack....small vending machine bag of pretzels
Lunch....large Texas chili salad from Jason's Deli with a Diet Coke
Dinner...a medium apple with lots of water
Snack....here is where I take a nose dive...5 peanut butter cups with lots of water.

Activities for today consisted of...

1.) Parking very far from my classes so that I would have to walk clear across campus.
2.) I took the stairs instead of the elevator several times pretending to foget something downstairs so that I can climb the stairs again.
3.) 15 minutes of the elliptical machine.
4.) 200 reps of stair climbing.

I bought myself a small diary that is large enough to get enough information on to a page for the day but small enough to fit into my purse. I have made it a promise that I will write everything down no matter how small it may seem. I am hoping that it will work. But I am going to try and keep at it.

This morning my scale weighed me at 198 :( I have only myself to blame. My wonderful size 18 jeans are not feeling comfortable when I sit. I never mentioned this but I have some really nice size 16 stretch flair dress pants and they are comfortable on me but are very snug to my skin. Well DH doesn't like them because they are so tight. I would like to have them fitting nicely by this Christmas but maybe even before that. I expected to be at 150 by my birthday in April and it doesn't seem that is possible but I am going to work hard at getting close to it. I already got a hold of the gym availability at school. The only time I can fit in is on Fridays so I am going to make it a point to get out there but if not I am going to go to the track and get up and down those stadium steps. I loved going up and down the steps way back when.

Okay well it is late. I better get out of here. Bye.
Kina

Good morning everyone!
Good news! Another pound is gone, and that brings me down to 188! :cb:
I am feeling so good about it-I really worked hard this week on eating more dairy and fruit instead of starches, and I have worked out a lot!
Nola-good advice on writing down things in your journal! Mine is very similar to yours. I have a page for each day, with my current weight and pounds lost at the top, and my food intake for the day on one half of the page, and my exercise on the other. In a few of the back pages, I have a few restaurant calorie coutns for some foods, so I will have a small reference when I am out, and I have my measurements in the back two pages. I measured myself a couple days ago, BTW, and it is funny how that is working out. The first 15 pounds came right off my waist mostly-3 inches, and my hips lost an inch-but these last 8 pounds have come off of my bust-1 inch-and my upper arms-1/4 inch off of each one! It is interesting to see how your body is changing. You can go cheap with your notebooks-a simple mini tablet will work for under a dollar, or you can go nicer and get a hardback journal like at the bookstores for a few dollars more. Whatever you can afford-it is the concept of writing things down-you really begin to see your weak points, as well as have all of your successes to look back upon. :)
Kina-Great job on putting more activity in your day. I totally recommend parking in a back space (unless it is a dark unlit lot)
and walking a little further into the store or building-and taking stairs instead of elevators. Every little bit counts. We live in a cul-de-sac neighborhood (a dead end road where the road has a round circle to turn around at the end) and all of the mailboxes are together at the start of the road, so I have to walk down to the end of the road each day-about 3 houses distance-to get the mail. I am thankful for that-because every step counts!
Since you said you need "quick" breakfasts to grab on the go, I would suggest fresh fruit like a pear or an apple, but add soemthing along with that, like a NutriGrain bar, or a low-fat granola bar-so you can eat it on the run. With the fruit, it would put you at 200 and something for breakfast-and you won't be famished at lunch. And as far as going downhill with your snack at night-it is alright to have a peanut butter cup-but try to make it as small as possible-if you buy a 2 pack of the regular size-split is with one of your kids so you only eat one, or eat 2 of the miniature sized ones instead-and suck on them and make it last. I love dark chocolate, and I have a bag of dark chocolate chips-and I measure out 1 tablespoon-80 calories-and put them in my mouth one at a time, and let them dissolve in my mouth. The whole process takes about 20 minutes. The trick is to make every morsel you eat as satisfying as possible. :) I know I have to have chocolate once or twice a week-I am addicted-so I have it in very small amounts, and I try to make it last.
I congrat you on getting two servings of fruit in yesterday though, I know that that is usually hard for you to do. Like I said, mine is dairy-but I did well and got two servings in of that as well. Yay for us!
Well, today is strength training day, and I am off to work out my body! Here is what I have been doing:
Monday and Friday-full body strength training-45 min to 1 hour
Tuesday and Thursday-bellydancing-at least 30 minutes
Wednesday-Pilates-30 minutes
Saturday and Sunday-yoga-20 minutes
Well, everyone-I will check in in a while-have a great morning, exercise, and make good food choices today! I know you can all do it!
Aphil

Congratulations Aphil!!!! That is so great! You worked hard, and the effort showed! good for you!!

Kina, good for you ALSO! on taking steps (literally!:lol: ) to get more exercise in. Also on the diary. Do you think that the family challenges might be putting too much pressure on you? In my humble opinion, it will be the small but steady decreases of calories, plus steady exercise, over a period of months that will be successful. NOT to be critiqueing - we all have to find our own ways.And sometimes the money aspect might be the short-term incentive. Just my .02 :D

I don't know if I could follow Aphil's self-control on the chocolate chips...I would like to try, but...actually I don't think I could hide the bag from dear husband and son. And I wouldn't want to go up in my bedroom, shut the door to have my small serving of chocolate. When I know that "the guys" are dying for a treat, we do buy a regular-size chocolate bar, but cut it into thirds, and that is a dessert treat.

Sumb me, I keep forgetting what Christine's (Silence) due date was/is...do any of you remember?

Hope everyone is having a great day. I'm on my third day of getting my water intake where it should be, plus maintaining the steady exercising (with the new tape - jeez, those donkey raises!
:D ) and pretty close to my original daily calorie count of 1600. Would like to get back to my 142/143 pound range safely.

Have a great evening!

Your friend, Holly
145 today (same as last week, but no gain!:D )

I think the challenges keep me focused. I am an Aries and if you know an Aries you will know that they take challenges head on and full force. I don't think too much of actually winning the money but mostly that I will lose some of the weight I began with. But just to tinker with the thought of pocketing the bank is a nice motivation to get that exercise in or to make a better food choice.

Okay I am off to pick up my oldest from school. Talk to you all later.
Kina

... is the weather here!!! My poor Canadian body struggled this week after coming from sub zero snow covered ground climate!!

Last night it was 36 degrees Celcius (sorry... I don't know how to convert to Farenheit!!) and it cooled down finally about 10pm last night. Yuck.

Today was a success at WW... down another 2.4 pounds!!! Woohoo!!

Congrats Kina on the diary!! I hope it helps.

I do the same as Aphil about the chocolate issue. I buy mini/snack size lite mars bars and freeze them (BACK of the fridge freezer) and have one every couple of days. It helps to get the chocolate fix in for only 1 pt.

When I was in Canada, I LOVE peanut butter cups and had 4 pks of them while I was there!!! Each pack of 3 is 6 pts and I would make them last an hour or more in the car when we were driving somewhere. I also enjoyed the fast food places that are not here in Aus (Arbys, Wendys, Tim Hortons.....) and I did not even worry about counting points. I also ate plates of hot wings with blue cheese dressing, drank at least 2 beers a day, had cheesecake or dessert when we ate out..... I think that the 5 lb gain, and being away from the 'diet' has completely changed my attitude towards dieting. I am alot more focused and determined that what I was just before I left. I felt 'burned out' almost on constantly counting, exercising, stressing, etc. Maybe a week off is what you need?? I know on the Body for Life program, you take a week off between challenges... or maybe when you are craving something during the week, write it down and then let yourself have a free day or half day or 2 treats on a Sat or Sun to reward yourself??? I am going to take a week off every 16 weeks or so and just relax and take a break.

I am going to hit the gym next week again. I was pretty sick when I flew out before Christmas, I had bronchitis and had been on antibiotics for 3 days when I got on the plane and just now am starting to feel like I can breathe easily and do some running. I have been walking every day this week to ease into a routine. Being healthy again is a good feeling!

Cheers everyone!! Keep on track!!

Nola.

Good morning!
Nola-I am not 100% sure about the Body For Life taking a week off between challenges, but I think that they diet for 6 days, and then have a free day through the week. Their diet is a 6 mini meal a day protein/starch combo-and it must be stuck to, and then they have the free day, where you can eat as you choose. (Any lurking BFL members can correct me if I am wrong!) They have a lot of choices of meals, but the 6 meals and the combo of protein/starch is what must be adhered to.
Good job, BTW on losing this week at WW! It feels good after "being off the wagon" to come back and have results right away!
Personally, when I am doing well in my eating plan, and on my exercise-it actually makes me feel worse if I revert to old habits for a couple days. I feel tired and sluggish, and get stomach upset if I eat too much heavy or fatty food. I feel much better after I am back on track-more energy, no tummy symptoms. It is great, because if I stray for some reason, it really helps me get back to healthier habits. I just don't like the way my body feels anymore when I abuse it. Little changes, like having a chicken soft taco at Taco Bell instead of a greasy beef one have made such a difference. I actually ate a beef one a couple weeks ago-and stayed within my calories range-but since it had more fat content than what I was used to-I had an upset tummy all evening! :^: My treats nowadays because of that usually consist of a small chocolate fix or an occasional glass of wine.
My husband is SO sweet-last night he went out to the hardware store, and on his way back, he stopped at Dairy Queen. Well, usually he is a "sabotoeur" and likes to bring tempting things in the house to see if I will cave...well, he brought Misty's (slushes) back for him and the kids, and he had searched the menu and brought me back a sugar free/fat free frozen bar for 60 calories. He was SO proud of himself-you should have seen his face. He knew he did something good. :lol: I just can't believe he took the time to comb the menu searching for something I could possibly have!
Well, today is my yoga day-I am going to get a few things done around the house, and then have a 20 minute session to myself. Everyone have a great Saturday!
Aphil

Good News! and Bad News! Which do you want first? Okay the Good News you know how I have been getting my exercise...yeah a whole two days! LOL Well I weighed in at 198.5 the other day this morning I weighed in at 197. Very happy! The Bad News I ate a half of a pizza last night because I allowed my emotions to control my hands. Bad very bad. Next time I will jump on my machine. Before coming to 3FC I never realized that I was an emotional eater...but I learned it quick. I hadn't allowed myself to emotional eat until last night. And you know I don't even want to write it down but now that I let it out here I won't have a problem writing it down.

Okay I really have to get ready DH is on his way to pick me up we are on our way out of town for a short trip and back. Have a wonderful extended weekend. Bye
Kina

Hello everyone!

BRRRR!!! I know that we are not the only ones that are in the midst of that Arctic air sweeping down into the US - we have been dealing with frozen water pipes all day...as homeowners, one always should be mentally prepared for something needing fixing, I guess...but it's a real drag when it interferes with such daily things as using water!!:(

I have been doing well with trying to be on "careful!" mode of eating, and been getting the water in. And when I did a different tape today, I could feel the difference from doing the newer, more challenging tape. That was a good feeling - I really put effort into the abdominal sets, because I could feel the strength difference - cool!

Kanola, WOW, what a temperature difference you are having! I calculated, and 36 Celcius is almost 97 Fahrenheit! Hot! think of me with my stupid frozen water pipes!!!:D :D

Glad your bronchitis is clearing up. A 5 lb. gain doesn't sound too bad for all the forbidden but tasty foods you had! And if youfeel that a week off, every 16 weeks would be beneficial, you should go for it. You might not even want a full week "off", maybe a day or two will suffice for you. But if it seems to help you to be more focused and not "burn out", then go for it.

I know that YOU had your cold weather while I was enjoying my 'cycling last year. I am MISSING it SO much!!! Have a ride for me, girl!!! :lol:

Aphil, HOW sweet of your husband to take the time to find a DQ treat that you would select!! When we least expect it sometimes, they do come through for us. :)

Kina, how are you today? I see now that you can take the challenge well, and wisely. And how wonderful it would be to be the winner, because that would show your determination, plus the cash!!

Nancy, how are you? I loved reading in your post a few days ago that you now look forward to going to Curves. That is super!!!!!

I hope everyone else is doing great!

I had some time to waste today (well, not really, but I decided to :D ) and read back to the beginning of when I joined here, and read through the year, just to try to get myself back in that mindset. It was fun, and I am so glad that I had you all along to help me. I know this is for life, but as I sit here, knowing that I am trimmer, healthier and happier, I am so glad that I was able to get to this point. But it was sad to see the names that we don't see anymore.

Besides reading old threads, I also looked through my journal, which mostly had daily entries for exercise and weight, not food entries. It was amazing that I was trying so hard, and sticking to the 1600 calories, and exercising; but from when I started, Feb. 5, to April 11, was the first 10 lbs. lost. Then the next ten pounds finally gone by July 3, 3 months later! Then one month after that, another 10 pounds lost. In retrospect, I would have imagined that weight would have been shed proportionately much quicker at the beginning...? Just shows that everyone's different. And I must say that it is easier to eat less, and want to eat less, in the summer months for me.

I hope everyone's having a good evening. If you can spare any positive thoughts to UNBLOCK OUR PIPES :lol: please send them our way!!!

Your friend, Holly

Good afternoon everyone!
More good news! I am down another pound to 187-now 24 gone forever! I am so psyched! I did a great workout today of bellydance. I usually do yoga on Saturday and Sunday, but this morning I was so energetic, I decided to do more! :D
I am actually in the mid-180's now...it feels so much better than 211, let me tell you! I am sitting here waiting for "naptime" for the kids, so I can go get my hair cut while Jason stays here with them. Our kitten is sitting on my lap-she has had a rough week. She was spayed and had all 4 paws declawed on Wednesday-and she is still healing. We were going to wait until she was a little older, but with the new furniture-I didn't want to take any chances. So, I have been playing doctor with the cat, giving her her antibiotics and pain killers. :lol:
Holly-my weight loss is sort of erratic like yours. I look over my journals, and the first 10 went really quick, then it slowed down-then I lost a few more and another plateau followed, and now it is pretty much about 5-6 pounds a month. The first 5-10 usually go pretty quick, and then it slows down, but then begins to speed up again when you have gained muscle through exercise and you are burning calories quicker. Your diet also has something to do with it. I notice that I lose more quickly when I cut down on breads and eat more fruits, vegetables, and dairy in their place.
We took the kids to Bob Evans last night-they love it there. (The whole crayons and kids menu experience.) I did really well. I ordered a diet soda, and ordered alacarte off of their breakfast items: an english muffin no butter (about 140 calories), a serving of lite sausage (about 150 calories), and a side fresh fruit cup-which was grapes, apple slices, and fresh pineapple (about 100 calories). You can find a lot of things you can eat if you go through your calorie/points guides for everyday foods. Bob Evans also has a great fruit plate that is HUGE. It is about 400 calories for the whole thing, and is loaded with strawberries, grapes, banana slices, melon, and pineapple. I often get that when we eat there as well. Just something to think about when the family wants to eat out. I love places where we can go that make the kids happy, and keep me on plan as well. :)
Well, I need to run-I have to get these kids in bed and go to the salon.
Have a great Sunday!
Aphil

I am wondering do you all journal the time that you eat at or is it enough that you just mark breakfast, lunch, dinner? I have not been able to get any workouts in as I had planned. Homework and housework is just devouring my time. I don't know how else to manage my time between it all. I can't put anything aside because otherwise it just waits for me to get to it and then I have the kids asking mom did you wash my pants or the living room will look like a tornado was in there awhile. Today I was able to get the laundry half way done. I have just now settled down to get some homework done but then realized I needed to check something online. Then I figured I would catch a little breather before getting serious with my homework. I will make some ME time to get that yoga in today. I think I will be getting yoga in on the weekends just like Aphil. Afterall I don't need a pick me up on the weekends I need an unwind. LOL

Okay well I am outta here.
Kina

Kina-I personally don't write down the time of day that I eat, I just write down whether it was breakfast, lunch, snack, etc. For the most part I eat every 2-4 hours-so I don't time it. My meals and snacks are spaced apart accordingly, so I am never "starving" which can lead to binge eating for me. I usually have breakfast around 8, lunch around 11:30, a snack around 2, dinner around 5, and a night snack around 9. I am a full believer in eating smaller amounts all day, and not skipping breakfast-rather than saving calories all day or skipping breakfast to eat a huge dinner. Your metabolism runs smoother if you are being fueled regularly throughout the day.
With tryin'hard and Holly now being on a "maintenance" program rather than trying to lose anymore-I wanted to talk a little about maintenance and what worked for me. Before I got pregnant with Raiden, and I was on my maintenance plan, what really worked for me best and what I enjoyed the most was staying with my low calorie/low fat plan exactly like I did to lose the weight-all through the week, and having Saturday and Sunday as my free days to eat as I chose. The scale would usually read a pound heavier on Monday, but after the week of eating right went by, every Friday I was still at my goal weight.
Some find it easier to keep their weight down by just allowing a few more calories/points into their plan each day for maintenance, but for me it was easier and much more fun to be strict through the week, and have my weekends off. In the event that a party or holiday like Easter or Thanksgiving was through the week, I would just use that as one of my 2 days off that week.
It may not work for everyone, but it is what I did, and I really liked it. On those "free" days, I didn't count anything, and it gave me something to look forward to each week for being so good the rest of the time. Some of those maintaining and those of us that will be soon-it gives you another option of how to keep it all off.
Well, I best go, I have laundry to do like Kina-and I need to get dinner ready!
Aphil

.... cause it is my lunch time at work!!!

Kina - I journal what time I eat because I am trying to work out a pattern of cravings. And to also get over that 3pm - 4pm afternoon 'slump' I usually get into. By mixing up my protein/carb combinations I am getting it worked out. My lunch is the low GI (or is it High GI) that digest slower to get me through the afternoon. I find I am a sweet tooth and if I get fruit in the morning, I am not looking for something sweet in the afternoon.

Like Aphil, I also have a space on the page for exercise, water intake, any notes throughout the day. Because I am doing WW, and tracking 'points' I also use the monthly calendar to mark down the day's final points and any that are 'saved' so at a glance I can see what is happening this week.

I took Aphil's advice and wrote goals, weights, measurements and some points of common evil work foods (vending machine!!) that might be tempting at the back of my book.

Holly - the weekend cooled off so we got a quick ride into the city on Saturday, but did not get out at all on Sunday. Hubby is taking his second round of testing to get his full license today and I am on pins and needles wondering how he is doing. I did mine the day before I got bronchitis and flew to Canada and was so happy when I got it!! No more tests for me!! Yay!! I am almost willing to trade the heat for frozen water pipes!! It gets too hot in the summer to do much riding here!! (well for me anyway!!)

The weather is still pretty warm here. There are major fires all over the country and this morning the smoke was so thick you could not see out of our 30th floor office windows!! The laundry that was out on the line all night will have to be re-washed because it smells of bush fires. There are not any fires near enough to threaten our house because we are in the middle of suburbia.... but it sure made me think twice about moving into the country!!

Take care everyone!!
Nola.

Good morning everyone!
Miracles never cease...I am down another pound to 186, and this marks a 25 pound total loss for me so far! :strong: For some reason, 3 pounds have just melted off of me this past week! I am so happy-for the 170's do not seem far off now at all-nor do those new size 16 Old Navy jeans on my dresser! I know that I only have a few more pounds to go before I can wear them and throw these 18's out FOREVER! All of my hard work is really paying off-and my face looks nothing like my 211 pound drivers license photo...for I know have cheekbones and a little "less" chin! :lol:
Even though I am still a lot heavier and not as fit as I would like, I know it is all paying off, because each week my biceps muscles look a little tighter when I am doing my curls, and my abs are now the consistency of "Jello" and not "jelly!" :lol: (I know you are all picturing that!) My back pain has ceased completely, and I am improving in my bellydance skills. The good feelings that I am having are outweighing the cravings and desires for fatty and sugary foods, and I am actually looking forward to each workout. I am on a big "high", let me tell you.
I have even began small "high maintenance" rituals on myself each day...nothing too extravagant, but like taking a bath a couple times a week in place of my daily shower-to relax and use the girlie body washes and bubbles and all...and putting peppermint foot lotion all over my feet each day after getting out, before getting dressed and putting on my socks. (The socks really help keep the moisture in and help penetrate the skin. A little spa trick. ;) ) I realized a while back, that I was just not taking the time out for myself that I deserved-so I have resolved to change that, and make time for my exercise each day, and a few extra things here and there like my bubble baths. Dr. Phil talked on his show about this a while back on a show about stressed out mothers-he said "If you are not taken care of, you cann't take care of anyone else." How true. I used to use "naptime" as a time to rush around and get housework done and so on...now I use it for my workout, a bath, or quiet time to read a magazine...and it feels great to do the things that I have neglected doing for myself the past couple of years since I have had children. Whatever "your time" is, whether it be riding your motorcycle, a cup of tea, your workout, or getting your hair done-please make the time for yourselves! You deserve it!
Aphil

Aphil you are something wonderful! You have just given me that added inspiration I needed. I did get up this morning and jumped on my stepper immediately and then right after that jumped onto my elliptical machine. Now I did intend to get some yoga but didn't quite get that far when I started surfing the t.v. channels. But I do plan to get that yoga in because I know that if I do I won't be as sore tomorrow. AND to top the morning off right I had a Special K breakfast bar (they are new; I found them this weekend) and a banana with water to cool off from my workout.

Now :crossed: crossing my fingers that the rest of the day will be just as perfect. Although I did bake some chicken breasts yesterday with the intention to have a chicken salad for lunch. It's really hard when I know I have pizza in the fridge. Aaaargh!

Aphil I have just have to say you must be on :cloud9: and feeling truly :strong: amazing. From here on out I plan to think of you and your determination and your success before making choices. I think my downfall these past few weeks is that I am not eating enough and I am noticing that. I am hoping that by journaling I will get the food I need into my body and then it will be easier to burn it off.

Okay I am outta here til later. Bye.
Kina

Kina-thank you so much for the compliments! I am glad to be of inspiration to you!
Trying hard to place your brain ahead of your stomach is one of the keys to making good choices. I try to make choices in my head before I act at all times-thinking about purposely planning to park in a back parking spot on the way to the store to get a few extra steps in, instead of automatically trying for a close spot-buying the cookie dough that is frozen in individual balls and only baking a few at a time instead of the whole bag-it may be more expensive than scratch, but this way there isn't a big container of cookies lying around for me to binge on. These are the types of preventative thoughts I have tried to incorporate, instead of running on "automatic" which is what tends to get me in trouble.
It is much easier to put only a few frozen doughballs on the cookie sheet and put the rest back, then it is to try and resist pigging out a half hour later when the smell is filling the kitchen. The same goes when I am at the store-there are certain trigger foods that I am prone to binging on, and it is easier for me to say no at the store, then it is when they are bought and in my cabinet. :)
Kina-I hope the rest of your day is as perfect as the start seems to be-you are doing great so far! I like the SpecialK bars too-a bar with a piece of fruit is a perfect breakfast!
Aphil

Congratulations on 25 pounds gone forever!!!!!!

You really are our inspiration, as you started this thread, and have been here to inform, guide and kickstart us!!!

I know that "high" that you are on - especially when 3 pounds have melted off in a week - that shows you are so in-control, and seeing how your good actions=fat loss.

Your workout is so well-thought-out also, with the strength training staggared with a range of aerobic and flexibility sessions; just super!:strong: :bravo: :cb: :cp:

Let's all follow Aphil's wonderful example/leadership!

Holly

Hi gang,

Sorry I havent posted in a few days, but I really screwed up my right arm last Thursday. I had had several days of shoveling snow (sometimes for 2 hours at a time) and then I was doing my curves workout and then I busted up some ice that had built up on the sidewalkand then after that I painted Kitchen cabinets for 5 1/2 hours straight , so needless to say my arm has been hurting so bad. I managed to make it to curves on Saturday and today also. The pain is still there but not as severe as it has been since thursday. I sure hope I did not do something serious to it.

WW does not officially start up again till January 29th, I am hoping that the scale will reflect a good number. I have not weighed my self since after Christmas when I gained the 1/2 pound and I wont till then. I am afraid that with doing the Curves workout that I am building up some muscle(Yes, that is what this chickie said, "muscle" :lol: ) and of course the dreaded tom is due to attack anyday now. I feel like a slug .. :(

I am doing my best not to get down in the dumps, but I really wish this house would sell. I am so ready to be with my hubby again.

Amy~~ :bravo: You are moving right along with your weightloss, I am so happy for you !!! Come summer time you will be one hot mama!!! :flame:You need to get some pics posted here!!!! :dance:


Nola~~ High fives :high: to you also for losing this week!!! Are you still enjoying the WW program?

Kina~~ I have some of those special K bars, they are sooooo exensive here. $ 4.89 a box. My son is sending me some more of the Pria bars. Have you tried them? they are so good and packed full of vitamins . They are made by Powerbar. All different flavors. French vanilla crisp, Caramel Creme(my fave) all types of chocalate ones. I know Walmart (in the states) sell them for about 66 to 79 cents a bar.

Holly~~ I dont know if I mentioned it in my last post, but your pictures are wonderful!! What a difference and you look so young!!! You have to be feeling so very proud of yourself!

:wave: Hello to all the reast of the ladies, I hope everyone is doing just wonderful and feeling good and smiling lots!!!

Gotta run, need to put some more ben gay type stuff on my arm.. geesh I wish this pain would go away.

Have a great evening!!

Nancy:df:

Good morning!
Nancy-it doesn't sound like anything too serious with your arm. Try soaking in a hot tub letting your arm and shoulder get down in there good for a while too loosen it up some.
Don't feel like slug-it is probably only the TOM approaching. The muscle tone you are getting will not bulk you up any-and most likely it will not make you gain weight at all, it will maybe just make the scales go down a bit lower the first couple weeks. It WILL be worth it though-trust me!
Holly-thanks so much for the compliments! I have thought out my workout a lot-I wanted the strength training sessions spaced pretty evenly, and to get 2-3 sessions of cardio a week, and my yoga on the weekends, when the days are more erratic.
My best reward thus far was yesterday after I posted. My 18's are loose, but I am not quite a 16 yet-and I remembered I had a pair of jeans stashed away that were 18's, but they were one of those brands that ran wierd, and they were always too tight for an 18, but too loose for a 16-kind of in the middle. My 18's don't look that good on, since they are too loose, and I remembered that I had those pants, dug them out, and they slid right on! :) They are a perfect fit! I have lots of nice athletic types of pants that fit now, but I am glad to have a pair of jeans that will tide me over until I can fit in those 16's!
Yes, I know I need to get some pics up here...when I do get them up, my before picture will probably be from when my daughter was a baby-since I successfully avoided a camera after I had my son. I was about the same weight-210 after Jasmine, and 211 after Raiden-so even though it was a few years ago-my butt was the same size! :lol:
Well, I need to run! I have to get laundry done, and get to my bellydancing! Life is much more fun when youo are wearing a coined hip scarf!
For any of you interested at all in learning a few bellydance moves, there is a video I recommend. It is called "Bellydance Fitness for Beginners-Basic Moves." This is not a video that will teach you to become a performing dancer-or is it in a dance class type format. It is an exercise video that is 30 minutes long, which teaches a few basic bellydance moves during the session. You will be exercising your entire body, but with smooth flowing movements and a few bellydance moves thrown in. It is very basic, but it WILL teach you a few basic bellydance moves such as shoulder shimmies and hip drops. It is taught by identical twins who are bellydancers, and has soothing music. If any of you want a cardio and toning workout that is not too strenuous, and is more graceful-then you will like this. :)
Have a great day!
Aphil

Good morning eveyone!
Aphil--way to go with all the weight you've been dropping! You have certainly been very focused and committed and it's great that you're reaping the benefits! Congrats to you!
Thanks for the little discussion on maintenance. It really is a lifelong journey and it helps to have a plan. I do eat a pretty regimented way during the week and relax a bit on the weekends. That seems to be working for me.
Well, ladies, I hit the big 4 -0 today! DH gave me a bikini! It feels so great to be "forty, fit and fabulous!"
Vermont Mom--can you believe how cold it is??? It was 11 degrees this morning on my walk! We all have to remember to drink our water, even in the cold--the air is so dry.
Well, I hope you all have a great day!

Hi!
Tryin'hard-you're welcome! I think it is important to discuss maintenance, just as it is important to discuss healthy eating, excercise, and the process of losing the weight. Maintaining weight loss is the longest part of the process-the most important part. I think it is important to have a plan to stay fit for life-which is why I don't call what I am on a "diet." I have undergone a total lifestyle change. If I go back to eating the way I used to, then it will all come back on, plus probably a few more.
Happy Birthday to you by the way!! That is great that your husband got you a bikini! Good for you! When Valentines day rolls around, I am going to hint around for a nightgown, or some bellydance attire, or something along those lines other than chocolates!
Aphil

:balloons: Happy 40th!!!!! A bikini - what a COOL 40th birthday gift!:D What a wonderful thing you have done for yourself, tryin'hard, to have yourself in such great shape, and the second-best part of your life to come. I think us "40 and overs" take an especial pride in being fit; and I don't think it's too creepy when a friend of one's son says "dude, your mom's hot!":lol:

Yes, BRRR!! This morning the outside thermometer read -11F. That's just the air temp - no wind chill factored in! And, at least here, the wind is supposed to whip up tonight, which is calculated to bring the windchill factor from -30 to -40F. Yikes! I hope my car starts!!

Aphil, I have seen that fitness video with the twins in the Collage catalogue, and admit I am tempted. And congratulations on the jeans fitting perfect! What a great feeling!

I just finished doing the Gilad Split 45 tape, which is the more challenging one, with the grueling leg raises. I still find it difficult to isolate that inner thigh, with the inner-thigh raises. I guess it just takes doing it 'til some more strength is developed, then maybe I can feel better how I should be isolating it. But I am very psyched at doing the abwork, as it is tough and burning!but I can finish each set.

Nancy, your poor arm! I hope it feels better with a good warm soak and some ibu's. I am so proud of you for making it to Curves, even with the sore arm!!! You GO girl!!!:D

'nola, I hadn't heard of the brush fires. I hope they are contained quickly. I'm glad it cooled off enough for you to get some riding in. Gosh, the licensing standards are so different in the US. I know we're very lax, compared to UK, Europe, and your continent

:D But you and I know to always expect the unexpected, ride as if we're invisible, and wear all the gear, all the time.

DNW - how are you doing? Don't forget about us!:D

Alibee, crazy Alibee - where are you?

Time to say HI to those who we haven't heard from in ages:
Jacklyn, who was walking SO many miles, remember?
Latisia - she was here briefly a short time ago to say hi
Melisa - haven't forgotten about you!
Sprite - I first met you a year ago! and haven't forgotten you.

I haven't had lunch yet, so time for the tuna fish, big green salad, carrot sticks, then granola bar & coffee for sweet finish - yum.

Working on gettin' back down to 142! (Hovering around 145-146 currently)

Your friend, Holly

I just finished my workout...I did the basic bellydance basic moves dvd that I mentioned above, and finished off with about 15 minutes of some more intense dance movements. I usually wear a sports bra and lycra workout pants when I do bellydance, to keep my tummy exposed, but today I added a little to that, and wore a tribal print skirt over the stretch pants, for a little more "exotic and professional" feel. It is a pretty skirt-it is cotton with the crinkly texture of the broomstick style skirts, except that it is split up one side for some thigh show, and to allow fuller "twirls" in the skirt. It has a rich tribal print all over it with a black background. I tied my black fringe scarf over it around my hips, and it really looked good with the dance movements. It added a little "oomph" to my workout today. :D
Holly-I have an older video that you might find interesting. It isn't in stores anymore, because it is a bit older, but it should be on Ebay or maybe even still at Collage...it is called Thighs of Steel 2000. The video is in two parts-the first section is aerobics, which I never use this part, but the second part is a 20 minute toning section just for your lower body. It has squats and plies for your buns and thighs, and moves on to inner thigh work and some really INTENSE outer thigh work. Can you say burn? I dig it out now and then on my strength training days, and do the lower body segment after I do my abs and upper body. If you can look past the turquoise leotards, it is a real good thigh workout! An oldie but goodie. :lol:
Aphil

Hey gals... I'm back again... no baby yet! I'm due tomorrow though, so any time now! :cp:

I stopped gaining weight a couple weeks ago... even lost a pound or two. I'm still sitting at a total of 38lb gained. Good enough for me!

Hope all you gals are doing great.. once I pop this baby out (if only it were as easy as that sounds) and organize my new life well enough, I'll be back to join in :D

Christine

Originally posted by aphil
If you can look past the turquoise leotards, it is a real good thigh workout! An oldie but goodie. :lol:
Aphil

Funny:lol: Sounds good, though. Even though women are supposed to have proportionately more lower-body strength, it's always been weak spot for me. I'd much rather work upper body, but I won't get results unless I feel the burn! I'm also going to dig out my "Buns of Steel" with Greg Smithey. Same '80 's styling, with leg warmers, but solid workout for legs, thighs, butt. Ouch!

Nice way to jazz up your bellydancing, aphil!!

Hi Christine!!! so exciting that it will happen ANY day now! We wish you a "poppin' out" baby! It is sure to be at least a little easier than your first, 'cause now you know what to expect. We know you'll lose immediately afterward, and then the first few weeks; then we'll be here to help you pare down again!

Tragic news to share - a couple in our town lost their house, and two pets (dog and new puppy) in a fire yesterday afternoon. As fire dept. auxiliary president, I got our members together and brought coffee and sandwiches to the scene for the firefighters - when the temperature is 0 degrees F, they need all the hot liquids and calories they can get. As we were leaving, the poor sobbing woman was being brought up her driveway, to the smoking ruin...a fireman supporting one side of her, a friend holding her up on the other... Our community is pretty close-knit, so even if she doesn't have family close by, neighbors would have taken her in, and already there's a collection jar in our general store that's full of donation money for them. Everyone please just be so careful in this extremely cold snap, with space heaters, wood fires and such!:(

Our water froze again today - sheesh! just got it defrosted an hour ago. Nothing like being without water to make you so appreciative of being able to wash dirty dishes, but with wonderful hot running water!

I was elbow-deep in a 30-quart bowl of sweet muffin batter this morning; was SO tempted to take a big spoonful, but didn't!!! Realized that I was HUNGRY so I had my yogurt and banana I had brought, and felt better soon afterwards. Yay!

Hope everyone's feeling fine!

Your friend, Holly

Good evening!
Holly-I also have that old Greg Smithey Buns of Steel tape somewhere around here...you are right, it is very similar to the Thighs of Steel in style-but the good old fashioned floorwork does the trick! The Thighs of Steel work the inner and outer thighs a little more, and the Buns work the buns a little more-but a few of the exercises are the same. It does burn though! :eek:
I am the same as you though-I enjoy working my upper body so much more. I am also stronger in my upper body, and weaker in my lower body. For some reason, the "burn" always seems much worse in my lower body when I work out.
I am sorry to hear about the lady and her home in your neighborhood. I am glad everyone is coming together to help out. I also hope she had homeowners insurance. My husbnd's grandparents house burned down about 4 years ago, and I know how hard it was on them until their new house was in. (They had a manufactured home put on their property after the remains of their old house was taken care of.) Luckily, they had good insurance.
Christine-let us know when you have that cute little bundle! Don't be in too much of a hurry to join back in, your rest is more important in the beginning few weeks. Start out with simple stretching and walking at first, and wait until your 6 week doctor's checkup before undertaking any aerobics or strength training, to be sure everything is well and you are healed. During pregnancy, a lot of your internal organs such as your heart, lungs, diaghram, and kidneys are moved around to make room for your expanding uterus, and it takes a few weeks for them to
get nestled back into their original spot. (And men think our tummies and our female areas are the only parts involved!) Good luck on an easy delivery, and I hope to hear that all is well soon. :)
Today was my Pilates workout, and boy, my abs were burning! It was a good one!
I am making plans this week to have a home lingerie party in February-it is just like a Tupperware type home party, but it is for sexy lingerie. It is a good company, and they have styles from size small up to a 5X-which I think is cool. I hate companies that only sell things in a size small, small, or extra small. :lol: I thought it would be fun, and I can get some free "sexies" for having it-kindof a little reward for hitting the 25 pound mark with my loss this past week. Besides, you know I have to try to catch up with Holly in her little Santa Suit! :lol:
Well, I better go-I need to get Raiden into bed. He is getting grouchy. Have a good evening!
Aphil

Good evening!
I just had to come post to you all about something-I am SO EXCITED!!!!!
I was searching on the internet earlier today, and I found a place that has bellydance lessons about a half hour drive from me! The instructor emailed me, and they are having an open house next Sunday, and she has invited me. They will be having a bellydance costume show, dancers performing, and I can sign up for their classes that start next month! It is about $50 for 3 months of lessons, which isn't too bad, actually. Jason gave me the go ahead, so I am going to go to the open house to see what I think, and maybe sign up! I feel like a little kid! Now I have even more motivation to lose these extra pounds and get more fit! :dizzy:
I will be signing up for the beginners course, but when you finish the basic course your next set of classes are intermediate, and then when they think you are ready, you can move on to performance level dancing. :D
I hope you are all having a great day!
Amy

My WW buddy sent me this email, it put a smile on my face this Friday afternoon in 37C heat with no coolness in sight until Monday morning...... *pant*pant*pant*

> Twas the month after Christmas, and all through the house
> Nothing would fit me, not even a blouse.
> The cookies I'd nibbled, the eggnog I'd taste
> All the holiday parties had gone to my waist.
> When I got on the scales there arose such a number!
> Then I walked to the store (less a walk than a lumber).
> I'd remember the marvelous meals I'd prepared;
> The gravies and sauces and beef nicely rared,
> The wine and the rum balls, the bread and the cheese
> And the way I'd never said, "No thank you, please."
>
> As I dressed myself in my husband's old shirt
> And prepared once again to do battle with dirt--
> I said to myself, as I only can
> "You can't spend a winter (or summer in Aus) disguised as a man!"
>
> So-away with the last of the sour cream dip,
> Get rid of the fruit cake, every cracker and chip
> Every last bit of food that I like must be banished
> Till all the additional ounces have vanished.
> I won't have a cookie-not even a lick.
> I'll want only to chew on a long celery stick.
> I won't have hot biscuits, or Bread rolls, or pie,
> I'll munch on a carrot and quietly cry.
> I'm hungry, I'm lonesome, and life is a bore---
> But isn't that what January is for?
> Unable to giggle, no longer a riot.
> Happy New Year to all and to all a good diet!

That little poem is just too cute! :lol:
I hope everyone is doing well, the posts have slowed down over the last couple days...
I talked to my mother last night on the phone, and she is going to try to come up on Monday to see the kids, and she has agreed to work out with me when they take their naps, insted of with my stepfather later in the evening. This is going to be fun! :)
Everyone get their water in today, and get in your exercise! Today is the 24th, and we only have 1 week left in the New Year Challenge! I have lost 6 in this one, but my goal is to lose a total of 8 like I did in the Christmas challenge-so I have a couple more I need to work off to reach my mini-goal!
Nancy-how is your arm, and how is Curves? I am hoping that you are doing well, and that you are busy because maybe your house has finally sold. (crosses fingers)
Have a good day everyone!
Amy-Aphil

Good result for me today at WW!! Another 0.8 Kilo (1.75) lbs gone!! Just a bit more and the Christmas explosion will be gone!!! Woohoo!!!

Looks like 3 weeks on... 3 weeks off... not too bad!

Hope everyone else had great weeks too!!! I will send some of this heat north! :)

Nola.

Hi everyone,,,

My arm is just a mess, and it has been snowing to beat the band. At 6 am this morning I had no choice but to go and shovel or I would of never got out of the driveway. I really must of strained a muscle or something. I have not been to curves in 2 days but hopefully Ill be able to make it tomorrow.
I am going to do my WATP tape in a little while as I feel so guilty with not exercising. Even though I know I have been burning lots of calories shoveling.
When I got home from work this afternoon I was dreading the shoveling that I had to do but to my surprise. My neighbor had got his snow blower running and had it all done for me. He also told me not to worry as he owes my hubby lots of snow removal for all the times that Bruce did his. So maybe I can get my arm to heal up some now!!!

I have been so down in the dumps this past week, from the pain in my arm, and missing Bruce and TOM showing up. Its been real tough for me to stay OP. I am so worried about going to WW next week(first official one since they closed for 6 weeks) My scale is showing that I am up a few pounds and that makes me feel even more down. This is really the first struggle that I have had since September. Frankly it is scaring the **** out me as I am afraid that I am going to go on a eating frenzy!!!!!!

Anyone have any suggestions for me, that will help me get in the right frame again?? I need some help fast.......

Congrats to everyone that is staying OP and losing. I applaud you all :cp:

Have a great night everyone

Nancy:df:

Nancy, HANG IN THERE! What a hard time for you now; foremost missing Bruce, then the cold, snowy winter blahs...difficult time to resist the urge to throw all restraints to the wind, but you know how crummy you'd feel afterwards.

Is there a specific taste you're craving? If so, try to identify exactly what it is...something sweet? or salty? If you can identify it, then you can choose something within reason, and have it, and hopefully be over that temporary feeling of wanting to have "anything, everything". For sweet, a piece of fruit in sugar-free jello/pudding? for salty, a measured amount of saltines, or a dill pickle, or a measured amount of pretzels?

And even if you do cave, remember, it's not the end of the world. It just will take a little longer to take off. You'll feel better in a day or so; certainly by next week. Think of the calories on a weekly basis, instead of daily, if that helps. If ya mess up on a day, think of a day ahead that you'll be stronger and more in-control, and have less calories that day. We are on this road for life; if we have a bad day, it doesn't mean all is lost.

Your poor arm, and having to shovel snow stinks. That was nice of your neighbor to help out.

I hope this was helpful in some way, Nancy! We sisters are here for you, pulling for you, thinking of you!:grouphug:

Now a pat on the back for me - I donated blood today, and received my 3 gallon pin!! Confession - when I donate (every 8 weeks) I allow myself a doughnut from the canteen. It tastes so good with the coffee, and I figure one every 2 months is reasonable :lol: And I'll add my "stats" - Blood pressure 123/70; pulse 70. The nurse applauded me! (big grin!)

Have a good night everyone!

Your friend, Holly

Wow - I just calculated what 37C is - it's 98.6F! Hot!!!

It is hovering around 0 here - and has been regularly dropping to -10 to -15F each night.

Good evening everyone!
Nancy-don't get down girl!!! ;) I know how badly you must be missing Bruce, but you will see him very soon. Your arm will feel better in a few days-I am officially giving you permission to do your Walk Away the Pounds tape if you want to in place of going to Curves for a few days and your arm heals up a bit. As long as you are exercising-it is alright to give your arm a rest. You all know a while back when I hurt my back that I had to really take it easy for a couple weeks-and had to limit my upper body exercises-so I know how you feel. It stinks, but your arm needs that time.
As far as your cravings-do you have any points banked up? If you do, this would be the time to use them to have a treat. You can have a lot of decadent tasting things that are low in calories/points if you think about it. When I get to feeling like that and it is getting really bad-to the point where I am fighting off a binge, I give myself permission to do so in moderation. I usually eat around 1500 calories a day for weight loss, but on my first day of TOM when the munchies get bad, I purposely allow myself 1800-so I can munch in moderation. It is only 300 calories, and doesn't make too much of a difference in my overall weight loss, since it is only once a month.
Kanola-great job at your weigh-in! You will be back to pre-holiday status before you know it! :lol:
Holly-good for you on your 3 gallons donated! I really need to give again. I believe I am what they call a universal donor, where my blood type can be accepted by just about anyone if theirs is not available-and if I remember right, my father is one as well. I know from experience how blood donations can save lives. My father had a bleeding ulcer that was so bad it almost killed him when I was a teenager. He had many blood transfusions before and during the surgery to save his life, and he has been giving blood ever since. :)
Aphil

Sorry Ladies, I have been kind of busy getting into the swing of school and all. So many thumbs up to give out it's crazy.

Snowey~~~I hope you are going to get better soon. Maybe you should massage your arm with some Icy Hot or something like Ben-Gay? You have so much going on and emotions don't seem to help in your situation.

Holly~~~Good going on you goal achievement. Save a life always feels wonderful. I am never lucky enough to give blood. I sometimes get to but most of the time I am just getting over a cold and they won't take me. So sorry to hear about your neighbors.

Aphil~~~Love the belly dancing class you plan to enroll into. Wow and the fee is very good too. OOoow enjoy that party of yours.

Nola~~~I really liked that little poem...so true so true.

Christine~~~Are we hearing the joys of a crying baby yet? Getting those late night bottle feedings on schedule? Did we get a name for the child or will we just call him "Baby"? I hope you have a wonderful and blessed delivery. Hugs to you.

Tryinhard~~~:hat: Happy Belated Birthday! :balloons:

Okay I hope that I didn't miss anyone. I have great news myself. I am liking flying on the highest cloud. I recieved a letter today from the college I attend. I wasn't expecting any correspondence or anything; I was surprised to be recieving anything.

WELL...when I opened it...OMG tears started forming in my eyes and by the end of it I didn't know if I wanted to cry or scream or both. I have been recognized for my hard work and scholastic achievement that they are inviting me to join Alpha Beta Gamma International Buisness Honor Society at Del Mar College(which is the school I attend). I mean it just blew my mind beyond description. I know I work hard but not becuase I want to be recognized but because I want better for my family. My husband refers to me as a nerd but in a very loving way. He is very supportive of my determination. I am so unsure of accepting this award only because I don't know the requirements and I don't know if I can provide all that they require. It's a big honor but if I can't follow through I'd rather not even waste anyone's time. Just to be recognized is amazing in itself.

Well I am out of here. I will let you all know what is going to happen. I have to decide whether or not I would like to join and attend a introduction meeting on Wednesday or Thursday this week. Talk to you all later.
Kina

Good Sunday morning everyone! :D
Kina-congrats on being recognized by the honor society at school. Even if you don't decide to join, it is great that you are doing well enough for them to ask you. Good for you! Your husband must be proud.
I am noticing a bit of a plateau this week. I have been 100% on plan, and have exercised each and every day, but I am still holding at 186 all week long. Hopefully it will not last too long!
Yesterday was a nice day. It has been freezing cold, and we have snow-but Jason wanted to get us all out of the house and go do something, so he took us all to Borders in a nearby large city. (For those of you who do not know what Borders is, it is a HUGE bookstore-they have any sort of odd obscure book or magazine you could want, cd's and dvds, and a great kids section, which is the size of about a 3 car garage, and it has a cafe/coffee bar inside.)
We have went there a lot, but this was the first time we took the kids. They loved it, Raiden got a Cheerio board book, it is so cute-it has places for him to put Cheerios on the pages to finish out a picture-like putting wheels on a car. Jasmine got a nice Cinderella book, Jason got a fantasy/sci-fi book, and I got a couple cd's of bellydance music to practice with at home after I start the classes. They had a really nice selection to choose from-and lots of latin, hawaiin, new age, or any other type of music that cannot usually be found at a mall music store. It was a nice way to spend the afternoon together.
Today I am going to try and get the sidewalk shoveled, and do my yoga-that will be my exercise for the day. After all the working out I have done all week, I really need the stretching!
We have 5 days of the New Year challenge left, and I really want everyone to buckle down and try their best. The next challenge coming up will be a short one-a two week Valentines day one-and I really want everyone to get geared up for that and get strict! Everyone can be strict for two weeks! Think of it as a little boot camp for yourself, to get ready for springtime-which means shorts and swimsuits! :o So, do your best over the next five days, because boot camp is coming! :drill:
Have a great Sunday!
Aphil

Congratulations Kina, you have to be feeling so proud of yourself , like I said before, being a wife a mother, taking care of a house ,working and going to school you have a very full plate. Now with this invite to join the honor society you are remarkable!!!

Amy, I am ready for boot camp only if my arm heals first :lol:


It seems that I can't even let it have a chance to rest. Yesterday we had close to 2 feet of snow, so I had no choice but to shovel (in pain) or I would be stuck in the house. So several times I was out there during the day doing that. Then last night the snow turned to freezing rain...ugh....what a mess. I had to skate my way out to the driveway and body slam the door on my FIL's van in order to crack the 3 inches of ice and then pull and tug to get the door opened so I could start the van and let it warm up to start chipping away at the rest.
After that I had to break icicles off the eaves that were nearly 4 ft long. Well dont ya know I got speared right in the middle of the forehead with the pointy edge of one????????? :eek: I was worried about how serious it was as I did not know if it was blood coming down my face or if it was the torrential downpour of rain that started. So instead of going into the house I got the courage to look in the side mirror of the van(after I scraped the ice off) and to my surprise, it is only a puncture with a little swelling, which was quite a relief.
I have to admit the puncture wound sort of matches with the burn on the left side of my forehead that I made with my curling iron yesterday :lol:
So as you can tell from my post, that my weekend has been a weekend from **** !!!!! .... I am hoping right now is that the rain that is coming down now will melt some of the snow and not change back into a freezing yucky mess.

Tomorrow I am calling moving companies and getting prices on moving our furniture, I decided I am not waiting till this house sells, I am going to let the real estate take care of it, I am so ready to get the heck out of here !!!

I need a Calgon bath........................... :)

bye for now all..

ps: did I mention the power was off for a few hours also????

Nancy:df:

Nancy...you go and take that bath honey...you need to get about a 10 gallon drum of safety salt and coat the walk and driveway with it to keep the snow and ice melted off. It really does work.
Good for you on deciding to let teh real estate co. take care of things. I am sure you will be much happier with Bruce.
Aphil

Hello all!

First, to Kina - CONGRATULATIONS! You are such a sweet, humble and unassuming person to think that you might not be worthy of that award - you are, honey!!! They picked you!!! Hooray to you for your obvious hard work! Whether it was done in the hopes of bettering your family or yourself, you achieved!!! Hug to you!:)

Nancy - crap, what a week you had! Doesn't this winter both s*ck and bl*w!!! Sorry for the cursing :D Poor you, to have to shovel your way out of the house with your hurting arm, then to be speared by a stupid stalactite!!! I'm SO glad it didn't puncture more deeply, nor go near your precious eyes!!

Aphil , nice day to spend at Borders! We have one in Burlington, I love to go there. I need to take the drill sargeant's notice deeply about the two-week Feb. challange. I will!!!

I have been very down in the dumps feeling for the past few days - and Aphil, I did sign up for 10 tanning sessions; did my first yesterday. I don't feel any immediate relief from my blues...but I'll give it time. It is the same each winter, just a real sad hopeless feeling...doesn't help that I KNOW I've extremely lucky with health, loving family, roof over my head, job, etc. It usually doesn't last more than a few days at a time, so I can bear it; and hasn't approached any scary levels of self-destruction. At THAT point I know I would need professional help.

I must have some bear DNA in me, 'cause every winter all I want to do is eat and stay in bed :lol: :( (combination smilies!)

I know the extreme cold has gripped about 1/3 of the U.S., so we're not the only ones suffereing from relentless sub-zero temperatures...but it's getting pretty old, baby!:cool: and we have Kanola suffering from extreme heat down under...

I am filling in for my employers' this week; they are going on a cruise (nice!) so I get to do 3 early-baking days this week. That means be at work at 5:00 a.m....just like the "time to make the donuts" man :lol:

Hae a good night!

Holly

Hey everyone!!

Well the heat wave is over for 2 days, and starting tomorrow we are back in the stinking hot again. Saturday hit 44.1 C, second hottest day EVER in Melbourne, let me tell you .... I was one FERAL canadian!! I thought I lost my wallet when I went to leave for the WW meeting, then could not find it anywhere, called the supermarket, the last place I had it, looked EVERYWHERE, and it was nowhere to be found. What made me the maddest was that my canadian ID, birth certificate, drivers license, bank card for my joint account with my mom for 'emergencies' etc. Only thing not in there was my passport (thank gawd) and my Aussie drivers license because I had just gotten my new bike license and did not put it in yet.....

BUT... the good news is that at 4 pm for some reason I went to check the mail box because someone might have put it there, and in the middle of the petunias that had shut up tight for the hot hot hot day.... there was that silly wallet. It had fallen out of my back pack when I was hauling groceries into the house from the car..... when the darn petunia's were open..... they were hiding my wallet. . . . it was a crap day.

Sunday was much much cooler and we did nothing. I sat on the couch, watched tv, movies, and played SimCity 4 (my fav computer game), had a bbq surf & turf (prawns, steak, salmon, chicken!!) with hubby and relaxed..... very nice day! I did go for a half hour walk in the morning and another half hour in the evening :)

Australia Day means... LONG WEEKEND!!! We went out on the bikes for a 9 hour ride today, it felt awesome to be on the roads again in 'normal' temps. My good friend, and most respected rider of our group followed me through some very twisty and technical roads today, I knew that there would be a 'critique' session when we stopped for lunch, so I really worked on my corners, keeping the speed even, staying off the brakes through the corners, and watching my racing lines.... and he had some really positive comments so that made me feel awesome!! And that the speed and confidence will come with time, but I have a great technical background he said.... sounds like I need another track day!!! :)

So that has been my weekend...... we had lunch at a bakery at a small country town, I now have a yummy sandwich (instead of a meat pie) and always a treat... today it was the best caramel square EVER!!! I will have to watch the sweets this week, but it was sooooo worth it!

Nancy - I agree... let the agent do all the work, get your butt to the chinook weather of Calgary to be with hubby!! You will feel mucho bettero! Just remember, Calgary Flames suck, cheer for the Oilers!!!

Kina - that is awesome news!!! It is so great when your hard work is recognised!! I bet you felt like you were on top of the clouds!!! And you should be .... with all the hard work you have been putting in..... Good on ya! :high:

Aphil - Borders sounds alot like the canadian store, Chapters. They don't have anything comparable to that here in Aus, but there are so many more 'boutique' bookstores and cd/dvd places.

Holly - I know what you are feeling.... I used to get that feeling all the time when I lived in Edmonton. I also did alot of tanning (3-4 times a week) during the winter months and it helped. But the cold, short days, hibernation feeling really got to be something bad!!! I always seemed to pull out of it so I never really worried. Soon it will be over, we are almost at February!! Maybe put your bike leathers on for motivation, and just have a sit on the girl to get motivated again!!!! Or put up some photos from last year!!! I know that would get me going again!!!

Well... I am off to walk to the supermarket and get some dinner stuff... and then to build some more of my city tonight!!

Take care everyone!! Have a great week!! :)

Nola.

Hello!
My mother is on her way up to play with the kids, and for me to teah her a little bellydance during their naptime! :lol:
I have been thinking about something wild lately...as a reward for losing my weight. My kids left me with a lot of stretch marks, and they are not real high on my stomach, all under the naval-but I am self conscious about them-I won't wear a bikini or cropped shirt because of them, etc. and since I am getting into bellydancing-I thought about getting a new tattoo to camoflauge them. I recently saw a dancer that had grapes and grapevines tattooed all around her waist like a belt of vines...and I thought something like that would serve my purpose to a T. What do you all think? I was thinking about dedicating it to my children since the gave me the stretch marks, like having some Jasmine flowers in part of it (for my daughter Jasmine) and maybe some clouds or lightening bolts somewhere (for Raiden-god of thunder) and having like tribal type designs tying everything together. I need to get out my old tattoo books and start drawing some designs up...My sister in law has a tattoo on her lower back at about the level I am thinking of-and hers looks great.
Oh-and I have lost another pound, down to 185-26 lost!
Aphil

Oooow that really sounds nice, Aphil. You have such nerve. I have tinkered with the idea of getting a frog prince somewhere on my body but Where? At the same time, I can't stand the thought of the pain I would have to endure. I am too much of a weiney. LOL

Okay homework beckons. Talk to you all later.
Kina

Hello!
Yeah...the pain is the annoying part...and the itching afterwards while it heals. :lol:
Aphil

I think that is a great idea Aphil!!

When I came to Aus 3 years ago to visit, I got a Maple Leaf done on my lower back and I LOVE it! It took just an hour for the artist to complete it and it hurt for a few days while it healed, nothing too painful. Very worth it though!

When I have reached goal and maintained for a bit, I am going in to get a tribal/native style hummingbird done. Not sure where yet, but I have the art work to get it done. I would love to get it done by the same artist, but that would mean another trip to Canada!!!

I love your idea of the design, and when you do it yourself, it means so much more.

Good work on the great result!!

Nola.

Way to go Amy on another pound down :dancer:
You are kickin butt!!

2 more days till weighin at WW. Hope its not to bad.

Managed to go to Curves today , god my arm hurts... I may have to break down and go to the doctor( I hate that loser)

Hello to the rest of the gang, I hope you are having a great evening!!

Nancy :df:

Hi gang!:)

Aphil - congratulations!!! Another pound down - you are in the ZONE!

That tatt idea sounds awesome, especially with the symbolism.

Kina - hi! Hey, anyone who's a mom is not a wienie!!:lol: Hope you have a nice day!

Hi 'Nola!! Thanks for the encouraging words about the winter blues. I did put on my leathers (mmm, smell so good!) and thought about what I've done to fit into them, and the good times ahead.

What a great ride you had recently. And good work on your technicals!!!

Nancy, good luck in two days! Oh no - is the doctor the one with the bad rug, whom you've entertained us with? :devil:

Have a great day, everyone!

Holly

Hello!
Nancy-I think the best thing for your arm is to really lay off of it for a few days-do your Walk Away the Pounds tape instead of Curves-since it incorporporates arm strength, and stop that shoveling! If a muscle is pulled or strained-it really needs to heal-I know that you have shoveled and done all kids of things since it has been hurt-and that may be really delaying healing, or in fact making it worse. I know how hard it is not to do that-with my back I had to change the way I picked up my son, and take only showers instead of baths-to avoid the getting in and out of the tub part and not lifting anything-lots of things like that. It took a couple weeks-but it really needs to be rested. :)
Kina-Holly is right-anyone who has had children-especially more than one, because they were willing to do it again-is not a weenie! I will tell you, that a tattoo hurts a million times less than natural childbirth though...(I had en apidural with Jasmine, but Raiden was natural-I DO NOT recommend it. :lol: ) I thought I was going to come out of that one with a huge white streak in my hair. A tattoo is more like a bee sting continously-hurts, but bearable.
Aphil

Ooo-la-la - a second post from me in the same morning!

I dug out my old (1987) "Buns of Steel" tape by Greg Smithey - it dates itself with the spandex/legwarmers/sweatbands :lol: but it's a good, solid thighs/butt workout. Ouch! I was burning!!! But that's what I need! Good to know that I can intersperse this tape with my fave Gilad and other workouts.

I also need to do some solid cardio; I've got the stepper outside, in the covered porch - that means dressing in mucho layers, but it is an option. A walk would be nice, but the exposed flesh freezes pretty quickly at -10F. :(

I've switched to my winter breakfast of 1/2 cup quick oats, few raisins, & splash of skim milk; then in mid morning a cup of yogurt or 1/2 banana. I'll still keep the Kashi Good Friends on the shelf, though.

Going to make another tanning appt. for today...the warmth feels SO good when I'm in the space capsule :lol:

Wishing everyone a terrific day!

Holly

Hey where the heck is everyone at today??????


Ok I m here, I am feeling like crapola and really think I am going to have to break down and go see the "loser" doctor. UGH,, my arm is still a mess and now I have a chest cold that is really kicking my butt. I usually dont get colds but when I do that are real whoppers!!! So tomorrow I will phone the bad toupee wearing doc and see if I can a appt and get some antibotics, before it gets any worse. I will ask about my arm also and see what he has to say....more then likely he will tell me "Oh, you have Genralized Anxiety disorder" you know that is his answer for everything and I tell ya, if I hear those words come out of his mouth I will rip that rug right off his head and shove it down his throat (even with my bad arm) :lol: I really think I tore a muscle or something as its almost 2 weeks now with this pain... :eek:

Today was the first WW meeting since December 18th (they have been closed since then,, dont ask it is just a weird way of doing things in this town) So off I go to my meeting and was quite pleased to see that the scale showed me down .2 ,, sure its not alot but its not a gain!!!!! So I am hoping that next week will be a good loss,, as I'm feeling the groove again !!!

Holly,,, I love the tanning also sessions in the cold winter months,, it feels soooooo good!!!!

Amy,,, will take your advice and do the WATP tapes(once my chest cold clears up) as I really need this arm :lol:

Ok its time for bed,,,

Have a great tomorrow all!

Nancy:df:
198.8/180.2/150ish?

Nancy--I'm glad you've decided to go see Dr Jerk. I hope you get some relief! It must be so hard to do everything with a sore arm!
Congrats on your loss!! That is really to be applauded--think about it--we've had the holidays, Bruce was home, you've been sick--I mean, come on--that could have EASILY been a 5 pound gain right there! So.... GOOD JOB!!

I am working really hard this week to maintain control. I haven't lost control, but I found myself doing a lot of Bites, Tastes and Licks (known in WW lingo as BLT's!!) I didn't gain a whole lot, but I just didn't feel right. So today is Day 4 of being totally back in control and I like this place a whole lot better!!

Where is everyone!! I hope everyone (except for Kanola) is keeping warm. Here in Connecticut, we are in the 17th consecutive day of below freezing temperatures! 'Nola--send us some of your heat!

Well, hoping you are all well and hope to read some new posts!

Hi everyone just dropped in to say hi and read your wonderful posts..so much commitment on this thread. And so much inspiration for me. Been nursing a crappy cold...finally my body gave in! Been chipping away at the pounds from Xmas cookies and such and I am back on track. I will resume exercise once the beasty cold leaves my body.

I am so thankful for your thread and the folks on my other thread Booty Camp..you all keep me focused...and for that I am so grateful each day.

Hi DNW! Glad to hear from you! Feel free to drop in any time you want! ;)
Nancy-I am glad you are going to the doctor, but I am holding you to the pulling off the rug if he gives you any grief! Speaking of yucky doctors, my mom recently had teh worst experience with a doctor ever! (She is a nurse too!) She went in for a "female" exam at a new doctor, and he gave her her breast exam with LOTION. She called me and asked me if mine ever did that, and I told her no, and she asked some co-workers, and they said no. She also said he was pretty THOROUGH. I was losing it-I told her what made it even worse, was that SHE paid HIM to do it! :lol:
(My mother is very attractive for her age)
Today is my dancing exercise day-I have just ordered some bellydance practice clothes to wear when class starts up in a few weeks-a black choli (tight stretch-fit half top) and burgandy harem pants. I already have my black hip scarf I use at home-so all I need is to make a practice veil for learning veilwork-it should be pretty simple, I just need to do a rolled hem on some sheer fabric in a 3 yard length-then I will be ready!
Our new couch and chairs are being delivered this afternoon-so last night we moved out all of the old into the garage, I shampooed the carpets, and I touched up a few scratches on the walls with paint. (I always save the leftover paint after I do a room and label it for this purpose) So-there is nothing in our living room except the coffee/end tables that we got to take home right away when we bought everything. The kids are having a blast running through the big empty room. :)
Oh, interesting fact I learned yesterday-we all know that Mountain Dew (reg or diet) has a considerable amount more caffiene than diet Coke/Coke or Diet Pepsi/Pepsi-but I just found out that Pepsi One has the same amount of caffiene that Mountain Dew does! If any of you are trying to have less caffiene, it is something to think about when choosing a diet drink. (I usually get caffiene free if I buy Diet Mountain Dew.)
Well, I need to get this exercise over with, so I can get a shower before the furniture men get here!
Aphil

Aphil: If the doctor had his nurse present (his liability insurance would want him to always have a nurse or attendant present, and he should...just to cover his butt), then maybe he is using the lotion as a lubricant to examine her breasts more thoroughly. It makes logical sense that the fingers would be less harsh on the tender breast skin this way.

If no one was in the room while he did this to your mom, then I would find another doctor, this is wierd and not normal procedure, my husband's a nurse and he never heard of this...none of the gyn's I ever went to would ever do this exam without a nurse or the patient'c companion present....good luck to you mom!!

Originally posted by Snowey
I will ask about my arm also and see what he has to say....more then likely he will tell me "Oh, you have Genralized Anxiety disorder" you know that is his answer for everything and I tell ya, if I hear those words come out of his mouth I will rip that rug right off his head and shove it down his throat (even with my bad arm) :lol: .

Nancy sez, "Hey, Doc, Generalize THIS!!!" as she shoves the offensive rug down his gullet...:lol: :lol:

You keep us so entertained, but it's actually awful that he is that way!

Nancy, I just saw that you are SO CLOSE to being in the 170's range now!!! Yahoo to you!!!! As Tryin'hard said, you went down even with Bruce being gone, and the cruddy weather, and being stabbed with the icicle! So that's great.

Amy, I hadn't realized that the the furniture hadn't arrived yet...congrats!! and enjoy.

Tryin'hard, what a great phrase - "bites, licks and tastes" - but those suckers add up, don't they.

A woman on a different thread, who was maintaining her loss, said something that rang so true for me...what the heck was it? Something like "maintaining the loss isn't so hard once we realize that we just can't eat like we used to, and not gain". simple, brutal truth.

Hi DNW, glad to hear from you! Yes, I agree with you about aphil's mom - the doc HAS to have a female witnessing the exam, right? Hooray to you for doing the "damage control" from the dreaded, yumy Christmas cookies.

I am feeling fried from getting up at 4:30 am each morning, to be at work at 5:00, to fill in for my bosses while they are away. Thank good nesss just one more day of that. I can't believe that, just about 4 or 5 years ago, I did that regularly. I was also a basket case then, too :lol:

Have a great day!

Your friend, Holly

Hi girls,,

Thanks for the well wishes, I did go see doctor and I got antibiotics for my chest /cold and also he checked my arm out, He pulled and tugged and made me move it every which way I could. He said that he believes that I have just strained my bicep muscle . So he told me to use cold not heat on it ( i have been putting heat) and continue to take ibuprofen. I do believe he knew better not to mess with me as I gave him **** the last time I was there and I could already see the little sweat beads peeking out from under the rug !!!! :lol:

Right now my arm is about as useless as Hugh Hefner without his Viagra!!!!!!!!!!!!
Last night the pain was just awful I got a total of 20 minute sleep and then went to work. Then got into the doctor at 9 30 am. Went and got my prescription filled and went back to work. I am going to hit the shower and then go to bed with an ice pack on my arm . I hope I get some sleep tonight.

Amy~~ How nice that your furniture is coming! It feels so good to have something new.
I seen something on tv about belly dancing and I though of you and you know what that looks so hard.. I think that I would throw a hip out if I ever tried that stuff :lol:
I think that is pretty downright creepy about the exam your mom got from the doctor...ewww,,,, reminds of a chiropracter that I went to once when my back went out. he was working on my back and then he took his hands and went down my butt real slow,, I thought uh oh.. something is not right here, so I told him,, ok Im done and got the heck out of his office. And to top it off the creepy chiros name was Dr "Sick" meyer.... I still want to gag when I think about it. I wonder if things like that should be investigated????
Thanks for the info on Pepsi one,,, I wonder how much caffiene the Diet Pepsi Twist has in it.. I like that one, but really try to stay away from caffiene.

Tryin Hard' ~~ Day 4 and in control that is great!!!! You have the power!!

Holly~~ I hope you are able to get caught up on some sleep this weekend, it sounds like you need it !

DNW ~~ Sorry to hear that you are under the weather also. I too will get back to the exercising when this chest cold clears, but will have to mainly work the lower body as the arm has to heal for sure. Hope you feel better soon.

Kina and Nola, How are you both doing?

Well gotta run,, have a good Friday everyone..keep smiling!

Nancy:df:
198.8/180.2/150??

Good morning everyone!
DNW-my mom did have a nurse present, but it was a woman whom she had went to nursing school with. After the exam my mom asked her if "this guy was for real" and the nurse got tickled and started laughing. Does the same thing apply with a female OB-GYN doctor? (I have only had female doctors except for when in labor and I was checked by a male doctor before my doctor had arrived at the hospital.) I have never had a nurse or other person present during an office exam. You would think in this day and age that they still would...but I would probably refuse having another person in there anyway...and just give the doc a kick in the head if anything funny went on. :lol:
Nancy-I wished I would have seen the tv thing about the dancing! Naw-you wouldn't throw out a hip! :lol: When you learn it-if the teaching method is good-then you learn the basic movement broken down slowly until you get it, then you speed it up little by little, until you can do it at speed. Only some of the moves are fast, and the hip scarves with the coins or fringe or tassels emphasise the shaking movement and make it look bigger. It is hard to learn, but a lot less dangerous than some of the aerobics classes I have been too! :lol:
Yes, the furniture arrived yesterday and I had to rearrange everything. When we bought it, they had the tables in stock and we took them, but the couch and two recliners were out of stock and I didn't want the display model-so we waited two weeks for them to be in. It looks nice, and Jason fell asleep in his recliner last night! (men...)
Well, today is weight training day...and I am also doing our taxes today...fun, fun, fun! Ihave just printed off the forms and they are waiting for me to get to them! I think I am the only person in the world who gets excited about doing their taxes...I don't mind at all! I love to do it and see what the return is going to be for the year...I am weird.
BTW-today is the last day of the New Years Challenge! Get those results in ladies! I have lost 7 pounds over this last challenge-and I am going to be telling about the next one later on tonight!
Aphil

Just a quickie post here today, I am breaking my new rules of computer useage already!!

I stayed up until 3 am last night playing that stupid Sim City 4 game.... :) So..... I am not allowed to use the computer until I have all my work done, ie dishes, walking etc because I was so mad at myself for spending ... yes.... from 7pm last night until 3 am building stupid cities and mountains.... at least I drink alot of water while I am at the computer!! LOL

:lol:

Today I stalled in the weight loss journey. No gain, no loss, ho hum. But I bought a Pedometer today! One from WW and it will be interesting to see how it all works out. I will keep you guys posted.

Did not hit the gym this week, the car was in the shop and $1400 later.... it is back home again. Right after an overseas trip (thank goodness that was paid for including spending money before we left!!) so I am a bit bummed about that. The house fund account took another hit :(

It is the start of another week.

Hubby is at a computer lan fest (geek day) until LATE tonight and I am cleaning the house, going for a walk.... calling my mom... being domestic and I am loving it.

Well... I might pop back and say hi again today.... may as well reward myself for ..... taking out the garbage and not watching a movie while the tornado keeps going through this house (it is a disaster!!)

:)

Good Sunday everyone!
Well, I have been busy with the family this weekend, so I have not gotten to post about the challenge yet...and everyone else has been busy as well-so I have not gotten everyone's results-BUT, I think I know from all my readings who the January winners are!
:barbell: The award for "exercise" goes to....Nancy! I chose Nancy for this because she has had such a time these past few months getting motivated to exercise, and she really made the commitment in Janurary with joining Curves and getting in her regular exercise.
:barbell: The award for "most pounds lost" I believe if I have counted correctly goes to myself, 7 pounds gone this month!
:barbell: The award for "the holidays are over, and I am not looking back" goes to Kanola, for doing such a good job these past weeks getting back on track!
:barbell: The award for "maintenance is for life" goes to Holly! Holly has done so well moving up with her exercise and being more careful with her eating habits lately-with the realization that if she goes back to her old lifestyle, the weight will come back. Good for you Holly!
You all have done so well this month! Well, since it is the 2nd of February-I want to have a short challenge that will last 12 days-until Valentines day. In these 12 days, I want everyone to choose one goal either in their fitness or eating plan that they want to work on these 12 days. Choose what is hardest for you, and really try for these 12 days. My goal is going to be trying to get 2 servigs of dairy in each and every day.
Aphil

Originally posted by aphil
:barbell: The award for "maintenance is for life" goes to Holly! Holly has done so well moving up with her exercise and being more careful with her eating habits lately-with the realization that if she goes back to her old lifestyle, the weight will come back. Good for you Holly!
Aphil

WOO HOO!! Thank you, Aphil!! I feel like a little kid who has won something :D Knowing that at least one responsible person is keeping watch on me will be tremendously helpful! Thanks so much for the recognition. And congrats to the others!!!!!:) :)

I did the cheezy 80's video today; it is kinda lame to watch, but a toughie to do! But rewarding to see the slight difference in upper leg muscles. I have started very faint color from the tanning, and that helps to endure the sight of the legs flapping desperately to finish each rep!:lol:

Life can be so full of twists and turns...a good friend of mine got involved with a University of Vermont study about weight-loss, and keeping it off for life...she did so well on the program, and with steady walking, and counting calories, lost something like 28 pounds in time to celebrate her 40th birthday. She was so inspiring to me...unfortunately, she has gained it all back, and is so confused as to why she had the "spark" at one time, and can't summon it now. :?: She knows and remembers how wonderful she felt during the time of slimming down, and enjoying her smaller self; she just doesn't know why she can't get to that point again. I don't know what to tell her, except that she did it once, she can do it again.

And of course, in the bigger scheme, the poor Shuttle astronauts...our thoughts and prayers to their families. :(

Oh! I can add something to my "what is great about losing weight" category -
*when you are in the tanning booth, in a teeny bikini, and the salon's owner's kid is rampaging outside the flimsy door, you don't have the awful fear that he will careen into said flimsy door, knocking it aside, leaving the whole place to gape at your exposed body...I was thinkin', SO WHAT!:lol: let 'em look!:D

Everyone have a great evening!

Your friend, Holly

Oh!!! Nancy and I have an important anniversary coming up! (no, we're not THAT kind of friends :devil: ) - I joined 3FC on Feb. 4, 2002! Almost my one year anniversary; and I believe Nancy joined right around then too. HOORAY to our little family here!:)

'Nola, I asked my 12-yr.old about Sim City, and he laughed when he heard how long you played that night! And he agreed that it is alot of fun, and very hard to stop!

(in stern, motherly voice) - Now, Nola, we want to make sure that you do not let this get out of hand! Remember, chores first, then fun!:D :devil: :lol:

Hello!
Nola-I totally understand the computer game/video game obsession. My geeky husband will sit there and play for hours on end, not trying to be lazy-but he just gets so into what he is doing. He plays a lot of roleplaying games like IceWind Dale, and Baulders Gate...games that you really get into like Sims. Jason has tried to get me to get some of the Sims Games, like the dating one an the roller coaster one-and I told him no, because I would never get anything done if I got addicted. I have to watch it when I read in bed, because it will be 2am before I realize it!
Holly-I am glad you liked your "award!" :D I am always watching all of you and rooting you on! I want everyone here to succeed.
Aphil

Hi all! Congratulations to all of the winners!
My Valentine challenge is to drink water. I really have to work hard to drink it, so it will be quite a challenge. I am going for three big glasses a day. One before lunch, one in the afternoon and one before dinner. That'll be what I'm working on during the next two weeks!

Hi all. Hope you don't mind my intrusion but I heard that some of you are doing Curves and I was hoping for a little info/advice.

I've just terminated my gym membership after almost 3 months of "can't quite get there today" and I was looking into Curves. What little information I have about it makes me think it's more for me. I went on Saturday just to see if I could look around and ask questions but the center near me is still in its "grand opening" phase and doesn't have weekend hours just yet.

Anyway (she said after rambling on long enough) I'm asking if someone could tell me what it's all about, how it works, what it costs, etc. It seems to be more structured classes that you can take 2 or 3 times a week and that's what I really need, I think.

Any information you could give me would be greatly appreciated. I'll check in again later and thanks in advance.

Here is the information that I have on Curves:
It is a small center that you go to about 3 times a week, and you work out for 30 minutes each session. From what I have seen, they have various workout equipment in a circle in the room, and you use each machine for a certain amount of minutes for your workout.
Aphil

Hi Jello! Nancy ("Snowey") is our lady here who has started going to Curves...guess she can tell you some more about it.

Ooch - ouch - that is the sound of my newly-worked butt and hip muscles talkin'! It's that "Buns of Steel" video...effective! I have great hopes, combining that with the Gilad lower-body tape, along with my others. Feeling good!:strong: well, good about exercising - but sore!:D


I am thinking that the tanning is helping my serotonin levels, as I haven't felt terribly blue since I started. The real test will be one week before TOM; that's when I truly see the world in shades of gray/black.

tryin'hard, I'm wishing you luck in getting that water down! Does it help if it isn't ice-cold, or do you like it that cold? I like mine closer to room temperature; I can chug it down easier that way. But with dinner, I guess I like drinking it cold.

Aphil, you would have been proud of my low-fat calzones that I made last night. I made the calzone dough, and for the filling I sauteed just a little chicken breast; then dumped in onions, green peppers, broccoli, green beans, red peppers; mixed all with some spaghetti sauce just to hold it together. Rolled out the dough into circles; put about 1/2 cup filling on each, crimped and sealed; let them rise a bit, then baked them. The guys were drooling as they whiffed the aroma! Then served them with some sauce on the side, and big green salad and raw carrots. I stuck to having one, though I wanted more! DH and DS had seconds, though. :D (p.s. - it was only after they demolished them that my son asked, "isn't there usually cheese in these? or on them?"):lol:

Have a good night, everyone!

Your friend, Holly

Hey girls!! Thanks for the award Aphil!! Makes me want to keep on!!

Thanks also for the support with my Sim City addiction... I have not played since Friday (i really sound like an addict) and will play again once I have reached some goals.... now how controlled is that! Woohoo!

The pedometer is pretty cool. The setting you can have it on is one that tells you when you have reached the 'healthy level' of movement for the day. I reached this level after 6350 steps or 3.5 km and then earned an exercise point after another 2000 or so steps and about 1.2 km... very interesting. I read that the Heart Foundation recommends 10,000 steps. Well... to reach my goal yesterday I walked to the train station .... consciously walked more during the day (I have a desk job), walked for 30 mins at lunch and then had another walk in the evening for about 15 mins..... Very intesting eh? If anything, this will give me an additional kick in the pants !!!

:) I even went to the Gym this morning!! Hey!! Whassup with that??? :)

Holly - - GRRRRR Employers can be so frustrating!! :mad: Good work with the videos!! I found your post about your friend very interesting. On Saturday night I went out with 2 friends and had a 'girl's night out'. One of them related a story very similar to yours..... makes you realise that losing is only part of the battle. I hope your friend finds her spark again.

Well chickies... I must get some work done, dinner is in the steamer and a friend is stopping by later on to say Hi. Everyone is having good weeks I am sure!!

Bye for now!


:D

Duh!!

My goal is to get my lazy morning butt to the gym at least 3 times a week!!!

:yawn:

...but only for a brief moment. I am so swamped with school and the family. I joined the Alpha Betta Gamma Honor Society afterall...in case I hadn't mentioned it. Which means i will be very busy studying in order to maintain my GPA. We also were approved for an auto loan and bought my dad's 1999 Ford F-150. Then DH started a new job this Monday. Gawsh everything is happening and quickly. I also joined the 100 mile challenge at school again. I am aiming to get 100 miles in this challenge.

Congratulations to all the achievers. They are well deserved. My challenge for the challenge you all speak of is to not stress eat. With everything happening I am bound to stress eat especially as tests come up in the semester.

I am out of here to get some homework and studying done. If anyone would like to see our new baby (truck) click on the link below to go to my website. http://r_aniroc.tripod.com/writingportfoliofall2002/index.html

I will check back in when I get a chance and forgive me if I become uninvolved from time to time. Keep up the great work Ladies you all are truly amazing.
Kina

Kina-that is great on getting another vehicle! We need to do that this year sometime-our 1995 Grand Am has just about had it! We have been too busy over the past few years with having children, buying a house, and so on to ever get another one! And my dad is a GM/Olds/Pontiac/Buick salesperson! (My dad also does not fit any of the usual stereotypes of a car salesman-ha ha)
I think that a goal of not stress eating is a good goal. I was very stressed out yesterday-with this past week of doing taxes, having PMS, and every other little thing going on-that I just cried yesterday for no reason. I just felt overwhelmed. I feel better today though-but I had to have a little chocolate yesterday. :lol:
Aphil

Hi girls,,

Still trying to recover from my illnesses. It sure seems to take this antibiotic a while to kick in.
The arm is getting a bit better but still babying it alot. I dont want to do anymore damage.

Weigh in today was awful, I was up 3 pounds. I was completely on program this week so that is what makes it so hard. Does anyone know if antibiotics can make you gain weight? I would be more acceptable of this gain if I knew it was from something that I did wrong, but was I was perfect!
I also have been drinking tons of water as that is what i was told to due with this antibiotic.
I will try not to let this get to me and continue to journal and be OP.

Kina~~ Congrats on the new truck, I looked at your pic of it. It is very nice !!!!!

Amy~~ So sorry that you had a sad day yesterday :sorry: I know what you mean when those tears just seem to come. I hope you are feeling better now :grouphug: And thank you for motivating me to get my butt in gear and start exercising, believe it or not you always come into mind when I want to slack off and I can see you telling me to get busy !!! :drill:

Jello ~~ Hello! I go to curves and I really like it. Its a nice workout for me as I really hate to exercise. I try to go a miminum of 3 times a week. But with my recent arm injury I have only managed to go once last week and once so far this week. And this week I only did the legs machines. I know they offer a week trial period you should check it out and see what you think.
I am really missing the workouts and am hoping that my arm will heal enough soon so I can go back full force. Let us know what you think. :)

Holly~~ Its sad that you did not get the recognition that you deserve for the extra work you did. Some employers just don't take the time to thank their employees,, pretty pitiful dont ya think?

Nola~~ Hello to you also :wave: I hope WW is going well for you.

Tryinhard~~ How is the water challenge going? I find it easier and easier to get the water in these days.

DNW~~ Are you still feeling under the weather?

Well time to go, have a great tomorrow everyone and remember to keep on smiling !! :)

Nancy:df:

Nancy, I know if you've been taking any advil or tylenol that you'll retain water--some of them contain an awful lot of sodium.
Don't let that awful machine we call a scale get you down! You've been so faithfully OP that I'm sure it's the meds that are holding the water in.
I am doing ok with my water. I just wish I could like it, but I am such a sucker for diet soda! I won't let myself have soda with dinner unless I've had my water for the day. Oh, the little games we play with ourselves!
Holly, that stinks that you didn't get the pat on the back you deserved! But, knowing you, you will continue to give 110%! They are darn lucky to have you and one of these days, hopefully they'll realize it too!!
Well, I hope everyone is doing ok. We're getting ready for the cold and snow again here in CT.
Oh--I heard a cute one--it was so cold here last week that angry drivers were giving each other the mitten!!
Read you all later--

Hello all!

Quickie from me before I get ready for work

Nancy, I am sure that it is the medication that is making "that horrible machine" :D -the scale - say you're up. You are right, my friend - IGNORE it and continue to do so well.

Nola - way to go on the walking!! and getting to the gym too!!!

Hi Kina! congratulations again for the Society. You are one smart chickie, and a great wife/mom to boot!!

hi tryin'hard - FUNNY about the mitten!!! I'm going to pass that along today!! Regarding the diet soda - are you okay with just one a day? What is it about it that you would rather not have. Ifind that it actually stimulates my appetite for something to "go with it". I love diet coke, and diet pepsi, diet anything soda! but also am trying to just not have it. :(

Hi Aphil! Sorry for your sad day! I hope it is out of your system. I once heard a theory that tears actually rid us of some toxins...and that's why we just have to cry sometimes. Hope you're feeling better!

Okay, my weight today is 145. My size 6 jeans (2 pair) still fit well.But I would like to be back to 142-143. My goal for this month is to stop the evening eating, such as bowl of cereal, half a muffin, etc. I should be full from dinner! I need to plan for this, by maybe making some sugar free jello to have ready for after dinner - I like it with some non-fat yogurt mixed in...so that is my plan.

Have a great day!

Your friend, Holly

Hi everyone!
My mood is much improved today. I watched the Dr. Phil show yesterday on bad things husbands do, and it cheered me right up. :D The guy that never bought gifts or cards for his wife, the bad dresser, the lazy husband, the terrible cook who loved to cook...and so on.
tryin'hard-loved the mitten thing. :lol:
I have just made plans to go to the hobby store this Saturday morning with my future sister in law to pick out wedding flowers with her. I am making the bouquets, bouttonieres, corsages, and flower girl baskets, and jasmine is one of the two flower girls. Her and my stepbrother are getting married in the summertime...another motivation for losing some more-I would love to wear cute summer dress to the ceremony.:)
After that I am dropping the kids off to grandma while I am down there, coming back up here home, and then going to the dance hafla on Sunday-so I have a pretty full weekend.
Today is dance exercise day, and I have a new video I am going to try for the first time with some new moves in it.
My goal of getting in more dairy seems to be working out well too. I need to start doing the diet Jello thing like Holly for evening snacks. I used to make a pan often, and I felt like I was pigging out at night because I could eat the whole thing of 4 servings for like 40 calories! It is great for renting a video and mindlessly pigging out in front of the tube on those occasions when that is what we feel like doing.
It also reminds me of my old party recipe that I have to make every New Years...spiked Jello. :devil: I make Jello Jigglers recipe using the correct amount of hot water, and when it is time to put in the cold water, I replace it with an equall amount of Schnapps in a coordinating flavor-such as peach flavor with orange Jello. I did not make it this year, because I really like it, and it has way too many calories...I heard about it from everyone though!
Aphil

Where in the heck is everyone at today? :(

Come out , come out wherever you are !!! :lol:


Nancy:df:

Busy, Busy...been on the move all day. I should have time to post more tomorrow!
Aphil

Aphil - that is so funny ; yes, everything's relative. When we compare our spouse's faults to some of the doozy's that are out there - we then thank our lucky stars!!:lol:

Nancy, how is your arm doing? and the rest of you :D

I am sure that the tanning sessions are helping my mood. And the warmth in there is just so wonderful. So nice to be laying down, with hardly any clothes, but being surrounded by wonderul warmth. As I leave the salon, I have my coat wrapped tight tight around me, to try to keep that warmth as long as possible!

Have lots of jell already made, in single-serve cups ( I keep my yogurt cups, wash & reuse them) ready for my snack attacks!!!

Still feeling highly encouraged by doing my new tape, plus trying really hard on all my leg / butt work.

Have a great day, all!

Your friend, Holly

Hello!
I just got back from the bellydance hafla! It was SO fun. They had the local performance dance troupe there modeling costumes, and then they had some dancers at student level dancing for us. When you start, you go through the beginners courses I and II, and then Intermediates-and then you stay in intermediates until she thinks you are ready for performance level. There are a lot of people in the beginner I class, but as you progress, it gets thinner, and is mostly those that are more serious about dancing. My beginner course starts in 2 weeks. I was so glad to see that the performing troupe had all shapes and sizes...tall, short, thin, heavy-and all shapes. I will not be a bit self conscious now about my extra pounds still to lose. ;)
There was one student performance that I really loved. It was a girl about 20 years old, who is an intermediate student and has been dancing about a year-and she had her little sister dance with her who is at beginner level-she has danced about 2 months. She was only about 9 years old, and a little on the chubby side and a bit nervous. They danced with veils, and after they started, that little girl did so well! At the end, her big sister just leaned over and hugged all over her. It was so nice-and I was impressed with the veilwork that she picked up in only a couple months at her age!
I have had such a busy weekend...I am in charge of flowers for my brother in law's wedding in July, and I had to go pick them out with his fiancee Saturday out of town...I now have a florist shop in my bedroom-enough for 7 bouquets, 6 bouttonierres, and 3 corsages! And when I get all these done and to her, I am doing 2 flower girl baskets and head wreaths! Busy, busy, me! When it rains it pours where my work is concerned!
I am staying the same this week with my weight, but my goal of dairy is going well. I am going to pick up the exercise this week and see if I can get the scale to move again.
Aphil

I don't think I've posted here yet but my poor tired brain cannot be 100% sure so I'm sorry if I have!

Anyway... I had me a baby girl on January 26th! I got my VBAC!
She was a big girl... 8 lb 15 oz and 20.5 inches (my first was only 7lb 7oz)! We named her Kairi Jean.

If you want to see pictures go here:
http://sedman.home.mindspring.com/kairi

A few more weeks and I'll be ready to start back on the diet bandwagon! My 6 week appt is March 10th.. then I can exercise again.. if i feel up to it.. I had a 3rd degree tear (ouch!) and so far its still not feelin too great!! I have lost 20 pounds so far though... but it seems its going to stop there without some help!

Hope everyone is doing well! I'll try to keep checkin in...

Christine

Oohhhh! COngratulations, Christine! Enjoy every moment and we look forward to having you back with us then you're up to it. In the meantime, take it easy!!!

:flow2: :bb:It's A Girl...and she is beautiful. :bb: Congratulations Christine! :grouphug: She is just too cute, especially in her little headband:flow2:

I hope everyone is doing well. I have been trying to do everything and I think I am going to wear myself thin before the semester is over. Thankfully I don't go to school in the summer and I am so looking forward to it already.

Take care.
Kina

Hello!
Christine-the baby is beautiful! :bb: I couldn't put cute little headbands on my daughter when she was a baby-they always popped right off! :lol: She is really cute! I hope you are feeling well, and we look forward to having you back with us soon!
Kina-I know how you feel about being overwhelmed and busy! I have so much to do-I have been working on my dance veil (it has to be hand sewn and sequined) and all of these wedding flowers-my hands are about raw-I had to take a break! It seems in my "work" (crafting and sewing) that I won't have a project for a while, and then when I do-I have 5 to get done at once! After the last couple nights of wading through Martha Stewart books, flower stems, and hot glue sticks to get into bed-he asked me when he could have his bedroom back! :lol:
My exercise is going well-I have upped my ab routine a bit-including abs on my dance days as well as the strength training days-since they are the only muscle group that can be done every day-and since I will soon be baring it in class! :o So-my abwork has went from 3 days a week to all 5 weekdays-but the rest of my schedule is the same.
I had an idea for a little conversation topic on this board...I would like everyone to list 10 little facts about themselves-so we can all learn a little more about each other.
Here is mine:
1.) I prefer dark/semi-sweet chocolate over milk-except for a yearly Cadbury egg. :^:
2.) My favorite colors are taupe and black
3.) I have three tattoos
4.) My favorite cars a Pontiac Vibes and Azteks-just because of all the cool attachments-cell phone holders, coolers, etc.
5.) Both of my remarried parents and their spouses are very successful right now-and people who didn't know me that far back often think I was raised in a well to do household as a child-but the truth is that my parents struggled before and after their divorce-and didn't have the money, cars, etc. until after I was in college. My mother, stepmother, and I were all actually in college at the same time! I so proud of all of them for going back to school and being successful.
6.) I have a wonderful relationship with both of my stepparents-and am actually glad that my parents got divorced and found spouses that they love so much. (How many kids can say that!)
7.) I love thrift stores and Big Lots. :lol:
8.) My only expensive habit is that I love Yankee brand candles.
9.) I think the sexiest movie character of all time is Legolas from Lord of the Rings.
10.) I hate clowns and ventrouloquist dolls.
Aphil

Thanks guys...

The headband she's wearing was on just long enough to snap the picture... even her 14.25 inch head was too little for it.. lol

Ten things about me... let's see... I'll have to think on that one and come back to it.

:)
Christine

Ten Things about me…

I moved to Australia in June 2001 to be with my soul mate and got married in September 2001. I used to live in Edmonton, Alberta, which is 150 km from the farm I grew up on and that my parents still own.

I have one brother who is 2 years younger than me that owns a farm 1 mile from my parents. He is a heavy equipment mechanic and works 600 km from the farm he owns. He has a fantastic, independent minded girlfriend who is also a mechanic. I hope he keeps her around.

I have one living grandparent and I still call her once a week. I think of her as one of my best friends. I am also very close to my parents and speak to them every weekend and sometimes I sneak a phone call in while I am working during the week. My parents have been married for 33 years. My husband’s parents are celebrating their 38th wedding anniversary this year. That is very rare today!!

In Canada I was a commercial property manager and in Australia I am a Database Administrator for a national bank. I am responsible for the correct payment of the rent for 4500 branches in Australia and about 3000 in the UK. ($18 million/month)

I had 2 Siamese cats in Canada. I almost spent $4000 Canadian to have one sent here. She was like my child. 2 weeks after I got married she was stolen from my best friend’s house and we have never heard of her since. She was chipped and tattooed. It broke my heart and to this day I still regret not spending the money to have her shipped to Australia. My other cat is happily living with former co-workers and is totally spoiled. I saw him at Christmas and I truly believe he remembered me! We now have 2 cats here that we rescued from animal shelters and they have helped ease the pain of losing my precious Phoebe.

I have one tattoo, and 2 body piercings other than my ears. I have had them about 4 years.

I collect anything with hummingbirds (kind of hard in Aus) and wooden cats of all sizes, shapes and colours.

My favourite car in the world is the ‘65-’69 Mustang. I have a 70% restored ’65 hard top coupe stored at my brother’s farm. It is red. I miss the car a lot.

I love motorbikes and have had a license for a year. My favourite place to ride is along the ocean. When I reach my goal weight I am going to buy a set of custom fit racing leathers. Black with neon pink and purple, so that I can be recognised as female on the motorbike!

I am friends with 5 people I went to school with since kindergarten. I live in Aus, 3 live in Alberta, one lives in Scotland. It has been 5 years since all of us were in the same place drinking beers at the same table. I miss them heaps.

What a great idea!

1. I am 40 years old and have maintained my 100+ pound loss for a couple of months.

2. I am married to a great guy 10 years my senior who is a saint for living with me! We've been married 15 years and still kiss and hold hands like teenagers!

3. I have a 10 year old daughter who is very bright. SHe has many interests and excels at all of them.

4. I work 2 jobs. I am a teacher at a small catholic school and I also work part time for Johns Hopkins Univ for a program that recruits under priviledged children to its summer academic programs. I am currently applying to be a principal.

5. Both my parents have passed away, but I have a good relationship with 2 of my 3 brothers. Even though they live in Fl (I live in CT), we talk regularly.

6. I love the beach. At any time of the year, I find such peace there. My DH often says I'm a teacher only because I need something to do when the beach is closed! I love being tan and feeling the sun warm my body. (FYI--it was 10 degrees here this a.m.!!!)

7. I am a morning person. I would much rather go to bed early and get up at 5 a.m. than watch the 10 pm news!

8. I am addicted to Diet Coke. (I wonder if they have DC Anonymous???) I can tell you when it is 11:45--Diet coke time!

9. I love the color red. My students make sure I have something red every day!

10. I love to read cookbooks and recipes! I always make the same old thing for dinner, but I sure love reading about recipes that take hours and hours to prepare!!

Aphil-- I have stepped up my ab-work also. I am going to a great karate-aerobics class twice a week and he has us doing a lot of ab work. On the days that I don't go, I try to do between 50 and 75 crunches and some leg lifts. We'll be ready for summer!!

Have a great day everyone. Kina, keep it all in perspective and don't loose your focus-- you're doing amazingly great things with your life!

Looking forward to reading everyone else's lists!!

Christine - CONGRATULATIONS!!! :flow1: :grouphug: :balloons: That is wonderful. Thank you so much for letting us know.We wish you a speedy recovery from delivering (and the tear - ouch), so you can join us in exercising again!!

Aphil, your poor hands, dealing with the flowers! I know everything you do will be just beautiful. Your family is lucky to have you, as the talented, creative person to do the flowers.

Hi Kina! A big congrats to you for holding it all together as wife, mom, employee and student!!

Let's see, ten facts about me:

1. I was born in Princeton, NJ, while my dad was a professor at the University. (I did not inherit his brains :lol: )

2. Like Kanola, I earned my motorcycle license last year, and absolutely love riding.

3. We have had dogs since our marriage, as husband is allergic to cats, but I miss having kitties.

4. I would like to get a tattoo, or a piercing, in a private place someday!

5. Just two days ago, I accepted an offer for a full-time, year-round job just 5 miles from home. It will be sad for me to give up the seasonal job at the private club, but it is what I need economically, and will make the best of it.

6. I am so glad I made amends with my dad before he passed away. A lesson in "don't put off 'til tomorrow..."

7. I have two sons; 12 1/2 yr. old, and other is going to turn 20 in 3 days!

8. I make panoramic sugar eggs for Easter, and sell a few if I can. I'll try to get a pic of them here by Easter, for fun.

9. Secretly, I would like to be an exercise class leader, just for local ladies, informally.

10. I love to write correspondence, lists, whatever, by hand; I have a love of actual writing with nice pens, sharp pencils! My favorite pen is a Mont Blanc, given as a fare-well gift from a former employer.

I need to go do an exercise tape now; thanks, Aphil, for the idea of the list! Another way for us to know each other better.

Have a great day, ladies!

Your friend, Holly

I have been so busy today...I have been searching the clearance parts of websites from Old Navy, Children's Place, etc. to find some new clothes for Jasmine-she is getting too tall for all of her size 4's-and I need to find her some things to wear that are cute and on sale!
I have also been hand sequining on this veil for the past 2 days-and had to take a break, because I was getting a slight headache. I will be glad when it is done. ;) Jasmine did the cutest thing yesterday-she draws a lot, and she came in with a picture she drew for me-it was a bellydancer! Now you have to picture it in a 4 year olds artistic capability-it had the cute arms in the air with an odd amount of fingers, and a long skirt-and her torso consisted of being an oval shape with a dot in the middle for the belly button. It was so cute that she even watched what I do enough to be able to try and draw it! She was so excited!
Jason is ordering me a tribal belly chain for Valentine's day that I have been wanting for my costume-it is a woven belt like chain decorated with cowry shells, siny silver bells, and antique silver coins-it is just gorgeous-I cannot wait to get it! He is so great!
Today is my abs and dance day for exercise-I really need to get that done-and I really need to eat something-it is almost 11, and I have been too busy to eat yet! (bad, bad, bad!)
I am finding all of your lists so far interesting! :D tryin'hard-it is great that you and your husband still act like teenagers! (My husband and I act more like little kids-we have as many toys as the kids do! :lol:) Your exercise program sounds great too!
Nola-you will look absolutely fabulous when you get your custom leathers! My sister in law and her boyfriend do Motorcross type dirtbiking-and she just got a suit and gloves in black, white, and lavendar-and she looks so good in it-and everyone can see that she is a girl with her helmet on!
I hope everyone is doing great-I have talked my husband into taking some pics of me this week-so hopefully he will get to it and I can finally let you all know what I look like! (Don't get your expectations up too high now-Cindy Crawford I ain't!) :lol:
Well-I need to have a bite, and get my exercise in-you all have a great day!
Amy

1) I'll be 28 next month (the 26th) and my husband is 25.. got me a younger man ;)

2) I met my husband on the internet (on a telnet chat). We talked on and off for about 2 years, each dating someone else until we finally wound up becoming available at the same time ;) We have been together for almost 5 1/2 years and married for a little over 2 years.

3) I have 3 cats (even though my husband is allergic too!) and would love to get a dog someday, when I have my own house with a yard!

4) Since going away to college at the age of 18, I have not lived in one place for any longer than 15 months. Although, I am about to sign a new lease here which will put my total time lived here at 23 months by the end of that lease.

5) I collect shotglasses. I'm working on getting one from every state in the US. If I had to take a guess, I'd guess I'm about 1/3 of the way there.

6) I was born, raised and attended college in New York. Born in Queens. Raised there and Long Island. Attended college at a few different schools upstate NY.

7) I do not have a driver's license because I am afraid to drive.

8) I love to travel but unfortunately can rarely afford to. I'd love to someday drive (or be driven.. see #7) across the country and just take my time and experience the US!

9) I've only held one full time job in my life... building Lexmark laser printers on an assembly line. I quit after 11 months because I was having my first daughter.

10) I have an associates degree in liberal arts.. the result of changing majors so many times that I finally gave up on finding the right one! I'd like to return to college some day but I still don't know what to major in! I have too many interests!

silence-my husband aslo collects shot glasses-and I collect Hard Rock Cafe glasses-mostly the hurricane and tall ball glasses. Jason gets them from other states, or events, etc. His favorite one was when for his job he got to go the the Dodge Viper plant. (My husband is an engineer for an auto glass plant-and basically, the furnace and settings and all have to be changed totally for each new model of windshield or piece of glass that they make) He had a blast at the plant-since vipers are like his dream car. They only make a few at a time, and each one is pretty much babied the whole process. The glass is really thick, with a rounded base, and it squares out at the top-and it has a metal Viper Logo attached to one side. Noone is allowed to touch it! :lol:
Amy

Hey girls!!

What a great idea of the top ten lists!! It is so great to read about everyone! Notice that there was not a single 'weight history' among them!! Wooohooo!!

Silence.... I also have a confession.... I met hubby on the 'net as well... Long story made short..... we have been married for over a year, in June I will have lived in Australia for 2 years, and I don't regret a single day.... sometimes I am sad, and miss my family, friends, the single lifestyle I had.... but 99% of the time I am happy!!

Well..... this week was a major success!! I lost over 2 lbs finally and that Christmas weight gain is GONE!!!! :D

I also got asked to help out at the meetings and have started training to be a weight recorder!! too cool.

Last night hubby and I went out for our V-day dinner. We went to a fantastic seafood place in a funky part of the city. I had checked the points out ahead of time and did very well in my choices. One of the reasons I chose a seafood place!! I had the best Atlantic salmon...... a glass of amazing aussie chardonay, and tiramisu that I could have died for!!

The only bad part was that the tiramisu made me a bit funny in the tummy and I should have only had half....by the time I was done I was about to throw up from the sugar and sweet taste.

Oh well... next time I will learn eh??

I hope everyone else has a great weekend!! stay out of trouble and have fun!! :devil:

Nola.

Hello everyone! Wow-we all must be so busy! Well...along with spring and summer coming up, my dance classes, and my stepbrothers summer wedding-I have just gotten another large motivation to get serious and get this weight off and my body in shape! I have just recieved a notice that my senior class officers are starting preparations for our class of 1993 10 year reunion!!!:o I really need whip this old body into shape before then!!! I have to look better than all the people I didn't like! :lol:
Aphil

I am still alive and kicking. So busy with homework. I am like dotting my I's and crossing my T's with studying and the whole nine yards. I can't risk dropping the ball and chancing that that will be the deciding vote of whether or not my GPA will fall below the Honor society allows. I was so mad the other day because I got a 98 on my math test simply because the answer was supposed to be a fraction over 3 and I failed to bring the 3 over to the area where she will check the answer, yet it was shown on my work. UGH! So I was only 2pts away from a perfect score. Now the test will consist mostly of word problems and I am so intimidated by word problems. I hope that I will be able to maintain an A in that class. After studying this weekend the word problems are becoming easier.

It sounds as if everyone is doing wonderful. Aphil, it's good to hear that you have that extra motivation. Nancy, is your arm feeling better. Nola, I love seafood and have heard great things about Tiramisu never have tasted it though. Holly, thank you for your support. Christine, I bet that bundle of love is keeping you busy. Tryinhard, wow principal that is amazing...I didn't know that about you. I really have to do those Top Ten Things about myself.

I will make a written list here at the house and then I will post here later.

You guys, I should ladies, I want to say thank you for being here. No matter how life is treating me any given day I can come here and find solitude, even if I just read through the posts. Talk to you all later.
Kina

Hi, I've been lurking for a few weeks now and just can't stay on the sidelines any longer. What a great group this is. I can't tell you how much it has helped to read through so many of the posts!

I'm 40, married and have one son. I'm a homemaker/office manager as my huband is self-employed. I've been married for 20 years and we live in Georgia.

Back in my teens and early 20's, my weight stayed in the 120's. It slowly crept up through the years and I've lost back down to 125 several times by using the Scarsdale Diet and portion control.

Well, now that I am in my 40's, dieting is much harder. Where I could usually drop 4 or 5 lbs. a week, I am now dropping a pound or two.

About 4 weeks ago I had my blood pressure checked and it was high. I ended up going to an Internist and was put on a low dosage of blood pressure medication. I realized that I had to do something and get serious about losing this weight or more trouble was going to be coming.

I purchased about 10 of the most popular diet books and read them all. So many of them conflicted with one another. I finally settled on using the "Picture Perfet" diet book by Dr. Shapiro. I am making wise food choices and counting calories. I have a little notebook in which I write everything down. I'm trying to eat an average of 1000 calories a day and exercising 5 - 6 times a week. I am lifting weights and walking.

The first 8 lbs. came off quickly and then I was stuck at 180 for over a week. I was really starting to worry and then I began losing again. I'm now at 174 and have to see the doctor tomorrow morning. I hope that I will show some improvement with the blood pressure and hopefully he will be happy about the weight loss.

I've got so far to go. I really do need all the support I can get. I sure do congratulate everyone here for trying so hard and keeping everyone's spirits up.

Hello!
Welcome K.C.! I want to start out with some basic information for you to help you out a bit. Do not be discouraged about losing an average of 1-2 pounds a week over 4 or 5-this is actually the BEST way to lose. You are only supposed to lose 1/2 to 2 pounds a week for it to be healthy, and for it to be FAT. If you are or were losing more than that, then you were experiencing some muscle loss as well from eating way too LITTLE-and you do not want that-which also brings me to the next topic-food. You say that you are eating about 1000 calories a day-you REALLY need to be eating at least 1200 a day-preferably around 1400-1500. When you consistently eat less than 1200 calories a day, you are going to actually slow down your metabolism, and lose more slowly-because our bodies have basic survival modes which help us to get through periods of famine, etc. Your body will do whatever it can to hold on to that weight. You want to keep your metabolism burning all of the time! When you eat at such a low level, you may lose quickly the first couple of weeks, but then you will experience a plateau like you are right now. Get those calories up to a healthier level and continue with your exercise and you will be fine. You may also find it helpful if you only weigh yourself once a week, rather than jumping on it every day. When you are losing at a healthy rate of 1-2 pounds a week, it can be depressing if you are jumping on that scale every day and not seeing a change every time. You will feel much better if you do it on a set day each week and see a result just about every time.
I hope these tips help you-I know it is hard to be patient, but we all have to remember that we weren't in a real hurry to get fat, so we can't be in a hurry to get fit. I don't remember jumping on the scale every day when I was eating like a hog and gaining weight! :ink: :lol:
I am not on a diet-I have made a total lifestyle change. I see people all of the time go on a diet and lose weight, and then slowly gain it all back because as soon as they got thin, they went right back to their old lifestyle. I have accepted that I am never going to be a naturally thin person-I will always have to exercise and watch my diet-that is just a fact-so I do everything I can to make it as enjoyable as possible.
I welcome you to the group-I am sometimes known as the drill seargant around here, but I love all of my friends here, and love to see them succeed in their fitness goals. These ladies are all so great.
Aphil

Thank you so much Aphil, for all the tips. I do have a problem with checking the scale every day. It is almost impossible for me to skip a day or two. I'm so anxious to see the numbers going down. I'm going to try to start checking it weekly. Maybe that will be more encouraging.

Welcome K.C.! I will raise my hand and admit that I am a avid scale weigher. But since I have been so busy I just don't even have time for that.

Anyhow...I came to knock my head against the keyboard and figured I would get a few posts in. I have so much on my plate that I just don't what to do first.

Okay I am going to get out of here now that I have spilled my yucks out. Bye.
Kina

Okay-let's see if this works. I had to shrink this thing down a zillion times, and you have to ignore the red eyes! This is me in tribal style bellydance gear and makeup-heavy eyeliner and lips, bindis on my forehead, etc. Now I just need to get a pic up here of what I look like everyday! I don't think I look TOO bad for a dancer still weighing in the 180's...
Aphil

Just checking in before getting dressed and ready for work. I have a hair appointment this morning. My perm is being weighed down with my length. But also the stylist said I was doing worst to the look by using Herbal Essences by adding buildup...well I didn't know.

Well I better get busy the bathroom is free finally. Before I go...Aphil you look AWESOME!
Kina

Thanks Kina-you are TOO kind.
Aphil

Here is another view...once again-overlook the camera red eye.
Aphil

Just got back from the Dr. BP is down to 120/70!! Still staying on medication till next visit and they'll do bloodwork again. Discussed everything I was doing and he was pleased except for the low calorie intake. You all were right...he said to take in at least 1500 a day. That's actually going to be hard as I have gotten used to the 1000 - 1200 range and I want the weight off so badly. Guess I just can't be in such a hurry.:(

GeorgiaLady-Good news about your blood pressure! I know how badly you want the weight off-and eating MORE may seem like it is going to make it come off slower-but it will actually make it come off quicker than if you were to continue on at 1000 calories. Trust me. My mother used to diet drastically and work out like a madwoman when I was a kid, and she always ended up staying about the same-if you are overdoing the exercise (in excess of a couple of hours a day) or continually eating less than 1200 calories a day-then your body will go into survival mode and hold onto every bit of fat that it can-because it thinks it is going through a famine, and is trying to keep you alive! (Our bodies are unaware that some of us do this to ourselves purposely!)
Now my mother exercises normally, and eats a very moderate diet of about 1800-2000 calories a day to maintain her weight-is 46 years old and a size 6. She lost her last few pounds by eating 1400-1600 calories a day, and upped that level to its current one to maintain her weight.
Everyone sees their body in the mirror, and we are so obsessed with what it looks like, that we tend to forget that our bodies were designed to function in a particular way-a perfect design. Every thing is relative to everything else. Weight loss to be healthy has to be slow and steady-because it affects so many things-your blood pressure, for instance! When you are pregnant for example-your body is designed to allow your internal organs to move around to accomidate for that baby-your heart, kidneys, and other organs actually change position in your body, and your body makes an extra pint or so of blood-and then returns back to normal over the few days after birth! This is how you can lose 15 pounds the week of having an 8 pound baby!
When you gain or lose weight, your organs, blood, spine-everything has to adjust to this. If weight is lost too quickly, then our health can suffer-so it is important not to be in too big of a hurry. This is the most important part of our journey-the changing of bad eating habits and lack of exercise into healthy ones-and the transformation of our bodies. Enjoy every day of this journey everyone.
When Holly (Vermont Mom) first started posting here about a year ago-she sounded unhappy with herself and desperate, just like you do. Now she is a different woman-and she learned to enjoy each triumph and enjoy every moment of her weight loss journey-not saving it all until she was at her goal weight.
I am done with not living because I am not yet at my goal weight. I take it one day at a time, and keep up the good habits and exercise, and know that I WILL get there eventually.
I want everyone here to be good to themselves NOW, not just when they are at their goal weight. Don't "not buy" yourself clothes or refrain from doing something you love and say "I'll do it/buy it when I get smaller." Do it now. We have to be good to ourselves the whole way.
I had debated over whether or not to start my dance lessons recently, because I had a fear of being the fattest person in the class-even though I have lost a decent amount of weight already. When I went to the open house-and saw all of these women in the fashion show strutting their stuff-some young, some middle aged, some reed thin, and others with thick middles or chubby arms-I was enchanted by these women's faces. You would have thought they were all a size 4 the way they walked through there with grace and pride. They were TRULY beautiful-and I realized that attitude has a ton to do with it.
Aphil

Thanks Aphil...you have the best advice. I'm certainly in this for the rest of my life...not just temporarily, so I'll have to learn to enjoy my new lifestyle. So far, I've been working out between 30 - 45 minutes 5 - 6 days a week. It's not as hard as it first was and I always feel much better once the workout is over. I do think I will probably keep journaling my calories from here on out -- even after the weight is lost. I believe it is so easy to underestimate the calories we are eating each day.

I think that if you are eating healthy foods, that you are actually able to eat quite a bit. For example: you can eat a ton of brocolli, lettuce, asparagus, green beans, etc., for very few calories. I'm also working on not adding margarine or butter to my veggies or toast. I'm finding that I'm adapting fairly well to my new diet.

One of my biggest problems is eating when I'm stressed or depressed. I know that's put on the weight over the years. The mid to late afternoons are the worst. I'm going to have to find something else to do when I get that urge to "snack".

Hanging in there....

GeorgiaLady-I have the same afternoon snacking thing. I try to keep my hands busy at that time, by folding socks and sipping a Diet Coke while watching a good tv show, or doing some of my crafting/sewing at that time of day-so if you sew, knit, like to do crossword books, etc.-that is a great way to busy yourself so you don't eat.
I also totally agree with the journaling. I plan to journal the rest of my life. I want to always keep track of what I am eating-and besides, once you begin doing it-it really doesn't take all that long, and becomes a healthy "habit."
Aphil

Hello everyone!

Blow a big raspberry (TTTTHHHPPPPTTT!!) at me for not stopping in more often! I don't even have the excuse of being too busy - just the "oh my gosh, it's still deep snow/winter" doldrums.

Welcome GeorgiaLady! Congratulations on what you have already lost; and good luck with success here, which you're sure to have, with our great coach Aphil!

Oh yes, besides the weight loss so far, congrats on the lower BP, which you know goes hand-in-hand with good health. Hard to accept about having the higher amount of calories that you thought, isn't it? But it's absolutely true. Hey, if you've become accustomed to that smaller amount of calories at meals, perhaps the additional amount could go for when you are having a "snack attack".

And yes, don't deny yourself things along the way - don't "put off" living happily until you are close to your goal - this whole thing is part of our life's journey.

I also will never be fit unless I make a concerted effort - I HAVE to work out, I HAVE to constantly watch what I eat; and if I go back to my old lifestyle, I will gain the weight back and lose the muscle I have worked so hard for; so everyday is still a challenge. That sounds daunting; sorry, didn't mean it that way. Just meant that it just doesn't come easily or without effort, for me. It's also harder in the winter for me, as I'm not an cold-outdoor-loving person (then why the heck do I live in Vermont, right? haha) But it does get easier with time; with the new habits getting established; and riding on one's successes. And commiserating (sp?) with the great ladies here!

Aphil, thank you for sharing your pics! You are beautiful! Love the enhanced makeup, headwrap, and cool chest tat!! You must also have your belt that husband got you for Valentine'd Day - ?

The indoor tanning is still doing well to help with my winter blues. I am being careful with the amount of minutes, and using lots of moisturizer. I do realize the disadvantages, but still think it's better than having my family committ me to an asylum! :dizzy:

Oh! Aphil, tell this to your husband; see if he thinks my husband is nuts! Yesterday the temp approached 45 degrees, and was sunny. Joe charged up the battery on his Vulcan (motorcycle), and PUSHED it up our 100+foot driveway, which is totally packed with snow and ice; and took the bike out for a 30 mile ride!! Then I was so jealous; but didn't trust my abilities to drive his bike yet (we weren't going to get mine out, also) so I geared up, climbed on behind him and went for a ride! It was so great. My leathers kept me warm; snowmachiners were staring in amazement; people were laughing and giving us "thumbs up" ! fun!

That will probably be the only ride for the next month and a half or so, but hopefully it will hold me til then!

Kina, wow, you were so close to a 100 on that test!! Too bad that you weren't given credit for those few points. You are doing so well!!! congrats to you! And nice new avatar pic!

Kanola, woo-hoo to you for your progress! and for the wise, healthy choice of the salmon for you special dinner - yum.

Well, I am still at 145. If I want to pare a few more pounds off, I really need to get focused ( I "talk the talk" to others better than I can adhere to it!:o ). I am very encouraged by the strength I'm gaining in legs, and just faintly can see a new contour in the upper thigh area, but still have a ways to go. I am hoping that getting a little more fat off will allow the muscle to be seen better. I can identify that I'm just not keeping myself occupied enough to not think about snacking. It's that indoor confinement thing...well, I shall overcome!!! (somehow :D )

ok, this LONG post perhaps has made up for my absense!! hee hee

Take care everyone, and have a great Saturday afternoon/evening!!

Your friend,
Holly

Hello!
Holly-it's fun that you mention your husband going out for a winter ride...Jason tookhis out for a little sping on Thursday when the weather got up and was sunny a little. Still snow on the ground, but since it was warmer and the roads were clear-he went, and two of our "Harley friends" in the neighborhood went out as well! :D Thanks for the compliment on my pic-I didn't have on my belt in the pic-it would have been cut out when I cropped the picture, but the next one I post will have it in it. I just LOVE it!
Well, I have been so busy too-with the wedding flowers I am doing, and the costumes I am making, and everything else! AAAHHH!!! I have had a pretty bad headache the past three days, because we are getting a nice little front of snow, sleet ect. today through tomorrow. I have one of those bodies that are sensitive the the weather changes, and it warns me in advance of storms! :^: I just finished two bouttonieres for the ushers in this wedding right before I posted here.
I have another costume I am going to be working on over the next few months as well...making my husband a Star Wars Stormtrooper....very tedious-working a lot with ABS plastic to make the armor, and lots of modifications to make it wearable-ventilation, voice changing apparatus, customizing it to Jason's body...it will be a pain, but so cool when it is done. We are such BIG kids...we love our toys. :lol:
We are staying home tonight due to the yucky weather, and we rented a bunch of movies...Everyone have a great weekend, and get your exercise in-and I will talk to you all later!
Aphil

Hi girls,,,

Sorry I havent been around in a bit, but I have been in a slump.. now I know why. I went to the doctor and got my blood tests that I have to get regularly for my thyroid and he phoned me to tell me that is is really bad. He has increased my medication to the highest I have ever been on. So that explains so much..my hair falling out, my depression, my muscle pain, my sleepless nights, and so much more. I hope that the new dosage will kick in soon and Ill be on my way to feeling better.

Welcome Georgia lady ~~~glad to have you here.

Amy~~~~~ You are beautiful, just beautiful . Those pics are great!!!!!

Holly, Tryin hard, Kina, Christine and anyone else I have missed a big hello to you all :wave:


I promise to post more often , once I get to feeling better..
take care everyone..


Nancy:df:

Snowey:( I am so sorry you are feeling so awful. I hope that you get better really soon. Please take care of yourself...we need your wonderful smile here.

So here is my little get well boogie...

:cb:Get Well :balloons:Snowey! :cb: I am sending you lots of good thoughts.:goodvibes

:grouphug: and lots of hugs to you.

I am been very stressed but I have found my release in my website creation. I have even linked a page back to 3FC. But I have found that if I am doing that the most my hands will reach for is a tall glass of water which I set here beside me or some baby carrots. It is still in the growing phase, I plan to add more and more to it. It's a lot of fun. Maybe you all can check it out when you have time. I also have a really nice surprise at the bottom of the page. Sign my guestbook and please fill out the form at the bottom to get your surprise. If you would like to see my creation here is the link...

http://r_aniroc.tripod.com

Talk to you all again.
Hugs. Kina

Nancy, I'm so sorry to hear that you are feeling awful. I HOPE and WISH you are feeling better very very soon!!!

My "feel better boogie" to you! - (credit to Kina!:lol: )

The :wizard: bestowes :flow1: and :flow2: and a get-well bouquet of :balloons: so you feel like :cb: :dance: !!!

Love, Holly

Hello everyone!
We got 6 inches of snowfall last night-yuck! I had to shovel the walk, and I guess that in the weather, the newspaper boy decided not to do his job today either! :lol:
Snowey-I hope that you feel better soon with the change in medicine. I am sure that you will be feeling more yourself in no time-and the other girls are right-we need you in here! ;)
I have been so busy...I am painting flower girl baskets right now. I found the perfect size and shape baskets...but wouldn't you know it-they are basket colored, so I have to paint them white...more work for me!!! I am going to hot glue white rose blooms all over the outside of the base of the baskets, so that it looks like a basket made out of flowers when it is done. The handle and inside still will be seen...hence the need to paint. I should have them done tonight...2 down, a zillion things left to make! :lol:
I have found the best low calorie treat for when you have the "ice cream cravings." They are called Sillouhettes Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches. They are in a clear plastic container of 6-sortof like the Weight Watcher brand, but they come in 4 flavors-vanilla, chocolate, peanut butter, and mint-all with the chocolate cookie outside. I love mint chip ice cream, so I got the mint...they are GREAT...and BIG-and only 130 calories. SO good. I found them at Wal-Mart. I also love the new Dole reduced sugar Fruit and Gel Bowls...especially the papaya in peach jello flavor-only 50 calories. Both make great lower calorie desserts for the sweet tooth.
That is my saving grace, finding stuff like that. I can stay away from all of the fried chicken, french fries, etc...but I have to have my sweets-at least one small treat each day in my calorie plan-even if it only a singe Hershey kiss. I feel much less deprived that way, knowing that I can have one small sweet thing each day.
My husband got his Weider home gym put together last night that he bought. He is going to work out 5 days a week-weight training on the gym and with weights 3 days a week-and cardio 2 days-either on my exercise bike while it is cool, or when it warms up doing things outside. He is 6' tall and weighs about 205-so he doesn't really need to lose much-just maybe 5 pounds or so, but he really wants to tone up and have more muscle like he did when we met. (When we met, his roomate had a big Weider gym and they had it set up in the spare bedroom of the house that they rented together-so he used it a lot.) He may eat terrible, but I am glad that he is going to get into exercising regularly again. :)
It is nice...I may use it now and then on my weight training days when I am bored with all of my tapes. So-now out in the garage we have the gym, my weight bench (for doing chest exercises with dumbells) and my exercise bike...plus the various dumbells that we share from 1 pound up to about 15. We are getting quite the setup-although it has taken us a few years to aquire it all!
Well, I need to get my kids down for theit afternoon naps...you all have a good Sunday, stay on plan with your eating, and lets keep our buns moving all week whenever we can-park in a further space in the parking lot so you get a few extra steps in going into the store...take out the trash instead of asking a spouse or child to do it...it all adds up!
Aphil

Wow! Two whole days and not a single post! I hope everyone is so busy and doesn't have time to post!
All is well here.
Nancy, I hope you're feeling better. I have to get my thyroid checked tomorrow morning--at my last check up, the dr was concerned because I have a lot of dry patches of skin. I guess it's a symptom.
Holly--I was reading the classifieds in our local paper and someone was selling a pair of size 8 leathers and I thought of you! It must have felt good to have the wind in your hair, even for just a little bit! Winter is back here in CT. The temps were in the teens this morning and it looks like more snow at the end of the week. At least our foot and a half from last week is melting in the afternoons!
Foodwise, I'm doing ok. It's TOM, but as least that explains why I was so ravenous on the weekend! I am still trying really hard to double up on the exercise during my PMS. At least then when I eat a little extra, I know I've worked at least part of it off. My aerobics teacher really has me working on my abs. I've been doing 100 crunches and 20 leg lifts every night. It makes the work we do at aerobics a little easier!
Aphil--how are all the flower arrangements coming? You are so talented and creative. If I tried to do it, it would look like a five year old did it!!
Hope to hear from you all! Let's make this thread the place to be!

Hi hi folks ... thought I might peek in there and see what ya'll were up to. I'm basically doing the "eat right and exercise every day" routine, so I thought maybe I'd fit in here.

Hello and welcome Raventoy! You'll fit right in with us!
I will post more later...but I have to get ready for CLASS! :dizzy:
Aphil

Hello Everyone!!

I'm a happy camper today as I am down another 2 lbs!!! I'm starting to feel like I may make it after all.

It's been cold and rainy here in Ga. the past week or so and it can be depressing. Can't really get out to exercise so I have to go down into the "dungeon" and get on the treadmill.

I have set up 2 appts. to have landscapers come out and bid on getting this yard in shape. Both sound promising and I'm looking forward to adding some curb appeal to the old homestead.

Hope everyone is doing great and staying well.

K.C.

Hello everyone!

Welcome RavenToy; sounds like you are doing what we all are; I welcome you and hope you find this group as friendly, motivating, and GREAT as I have!

Hi tryin'hard! My ride last week is now just a sweet memory; we have temps of around 10 now, with the wind whipping! ARGH! and below 0 forcast for tonight. Your method of doubling up on exercise before TOM is such a good idea...I really should give that a try. 100 crunches a night - whoa!!! Abs of steel for tryin'hard!

Aphil, so much work you are doing for the wedding! And I would love to see a pic of the stormtrooper's costume, when it is done...it sounds like, with the materials you said, it will really look like a movie-quality one? Awesome!

Hi GeorgiaLady; what is the weather like where you are? Sounds considerably milder than what we have up here!:lol: Hope you are doing well.

I saw a woman at the grocery store today, whom I haven't seen in over a year...we smiled at each other from across the aisle, then she came up to me and said, "oh my gosh! How skinny are you? Or are you trying to be skinny?"; I think maybe she thought she had blundered, in case I had been ill or something...but Lord, I weigh 145, which can't be mistaken for sickly unless maybe I was 6 feet tall!:lol:

Anyway, it was nice to hear her say that; because lately, as I've been doing the extra leg exercises, it seems that I see the thigh flesh hanging, in a way it didn't before...I know that I have more leg muscle than before, but really don't care to see that flesh hanging away from my thigh!!! Ugh!! I guess I'll always find something to critique about this bod, haha.

Hello to everyone else!!!

Have a nice night, and a good, in-control day tomorrow!!!

Your friend, Holly
My stats, for the newcomers :)
SW Feb. 2002 176, size 12 tight! or 14
CW 145, size 8 loose! and a few 6's

Hi girls!!

Just a quick hello from Down Under!! We had a hot Sunday and Monday and finally a break from the heat !!!

Holly - I laughed at your post about the bike ride!!! What a great thing to do (I hope!). When we were in Edmonton at Christmas, on Dec 28 there were guys out on their bikes... I could not believe it!! When I lived there I would have been wearing shorts at +5C tho.... no wonder I have a frozen brain!!! It was too hot to ride on Sunday so we went to the Zoo instead!!!

Hello all the newcomers!!! wave:

I had my usual stay the same weigh in this last week.... *sighs* so I am pumping up the aerobics and weights classes from 4 to about 8 this week!!! :strong:

And I am getting in full points of healthy healthy foods and more protein than usual.... one big change is NO TREATS this week.... going to kick that sugar habit once and for all!!! :cookie:

Well... I must run here.. this is my only night at home without a gym class right after work.... and I am going in the mornings again!! That scale is gonna move girls... yes it is!!!

Bye for now!!

Nola.
:cb:

Welcome Raventoy! And, I don't remember if I formally welcomed you, Georgia Lady! I think Holly and I are living vicariously through Nola and Georgia Lady! I'm sitting here in my classroom with my coat still on! It was 6 degrees this morning when I walked. Man, I can't wait for spring!!
Holly, I watched one of those real-life makeover shows last week and a woman who had lost a lot of weight had her excess skin removed. I would rather KEEP all my extra skin (and I have quite a bit!) than go through what she went through! OUCH! I remember the DR told me it would take over a year for my skin to shrink. FOr the most part, it has, but I still have a little "excess baggage" on my arms, my lower belly and my inner thighs. But, like you said, we'll always find something to complain about!!
Well, I hope everyone has a great day. Summer WILL be here before we know it and we are all going to look great!!

Nola, I know the scale is going to change for you soon. Those plateaus are aggravating but you've got to bust right through them. Dropping the sweets surely will help. I've noticed that I crave sweets less now that I don't eat them. If I really need a chocolate fix, I try one of those 0 carb chocolate bars with just 100 calories. Found them at Super Wal-mart of all places. About twice a week I just have to have one and it does the trick!

Hi Holli, The weather here is probably much milder than yours although we are not used to the extreme cold when it gets here. It has been a very rainy winter so far. Right now it's about 50 but the wind is not blowing so I can't really complain. It's just been so gray lately....kinda depressing.

Lately, I've been really counting my carbs and I'm starting to feel like the low sugar, low carb way has it's strong points. I haven't had a baked potato in a long time and am staying away from pasta and rice. I am eating veggies and fruits in moderation and sticking with the protein. I have noticed that my energy level has been consistently high and I can't remember my last headache.

Have a great day everyone!!!

Hello everyone!
K.C.-I don't eat low carb-but since I am a percon with blood sugar issues, I have found that all carbs are not created equal-white bread, pastry cakey type things, and white rice are things that I just cannot get enough of if I start eating them, and I am starving an hour later. If you like carbs, but want better carbs that go through your blood sugar slower-try whole wheat pasta, and whole wheat breads that have fiber in them, and cereals such as Kashi and Raisin Bran rather than cereals that are more processed/refined. A good rule of thumb is to check the fiber content-if the bread or cereal, etc. has hardly any fiber-less than a gram-it is going to cause the blood sugar spikes and lows. Once I changed from Corn Pops to Shredded Wheat, and from Cream of Wheat to oatmeal-I have felt much better. Fruits are a great source of steady carbohydrates as well.
Holly-yes, Jason's costume will be movie quality. That is really what I do-I study the costumes in movies and go on all out searches for the right materials, etc. I have to get pretty creative. My Queen Amidala costume fabric had to be dyed, layered, etc. and I used about 5 packages of wig hair in making the headpiece-and gazillions of beads and pearls. For Jason's officer costume I spent more time in the hardware store for supplies than in the fabric shop! I have actually went to a workshop/seminar last year with Trisha Biggar-who was the designer/creator of the costumes of the last 2 Star Wars movies. It was like dream. She actually brought some of the costumes with her and had them set up on stage-the one I made, and 5 from Attack of the Clones-Anakin's outfit, Queen Jamilla's gown and headress, and 3 of Padme's outfits. I have tons of pictures. It was really cool to see how SMALL Natalie Portman is in real life by actually seeing these gowns. She must really be only about 5'1" tall, very small framed through the shoulders, and about 105 pounds. She also has a pretty small head-just a tiny gal in general.
If you want, you can check out a friend of mine's website who is a costumer-she does them from lots of movies-I do not have the link-but if you punch in "Surlygirlie's costume-o-rama" it should come up. She does awesome work-Star Wars, Moulin Rouge, The Nightmare Before Christmas-and others.
My class last night was awesome! I had such a good time! My teacher is great, instead of just throwing on a cd and teaching us moves, she teaches us factual information as we go, and information about the music. Last night she played a tribal drum, and tapped out a beat called "beledi" and had us do moves to it, and getting us used to that beat-so that we could recognize it for ourselves if it is played in a song. We will use this beat for a couple of lessons, and then go on to another one. It was really neat. We did some basic posture work-you have kindof a wierd stance in bellydance-not like you do when you stand normally. I was so happy when she went around the class and I was one of teh only ones who did not get corrected! :D My tons of videos have really helped me get used to the posture ahead of time.
I can really feel it in my thighs this morning-and I am really looking forward to next week's class!
Well, today is my Pilates day...and I am going to also review what I did in class-and my exercise will be done for the day.
Well, I need to get off here and get these buns a movin-everyone have a fantastic day!
Aphil

Thanks for all the info. Aphil....too bad there's not a "high fiber" section (other than the produce section) in the market to make it all a bit easier. I spend a lot of time reading nutrition labels.

Hi again... just another quick read before I get into the work!!

Georgia Lady - I wish there were Wal Marts in Australia!! I have been here 20 months now. About 90% of what is sold in a walmart in North America is not available here, but on the plus side... our fruit and veggies are amazing to what we got shipped to northern canada!! yum yum pineapple in season all year!!

gotta go and get through the email in box at work *sighs*

:)
Nola.

Well this is my first post. I am 27 years old with 3 kids and I am married to an army guy. I grew up in vermont, I was very active until I got married at 18 and realized I could cook. I weighed 140lbs when we got married. At 5ft7 that is skinny. Now 3 kids later and 9 years of marraige, I am still 5ft7 but now i am 190lbs. I feel awful. i have bought everything that is gonna "fix" me. I have decided now to get serious. I wear a size 16 and they are tight. My problem is my mid section. I bought a treadmill, a pilates machine. I am gonna do it. I want to feel better.
One thing someone said to me that got me thinking....You body is your machine,your vehicle to get you through life. When you put food into your mouth,think about it...what is that going to do FOR your VEHICLE,your body. (I know wacko right) If that bite of food is gonna do nothing for you but make you feel like crap or make you fat dont do it. Eat to Live.....
So I am thinking to myself who has that kind of will power? I am gonna try. I finally found this place. I think you ladies are perfect. I wanna do this and now I think I can.
My husband is gona a lot. And now who knows what is gonna happen...But I do know when he ccomes home. I want him to find me skinny. Thanks ladies for listening to me ramble. :) rachel

Welcome Rachel!
No-thinking of your body as a machine or vehicle is not wacko-it is right on! Back in caveman times, there were no Twinkies or donuts...you ate fresh fruits and vegetables, and fresh meats. You ate to live. In Pioneer days a treat was honey or seasonal maple syrup...not all of the crap we have in the stores today.
Your body is the only one you are going to have-so you need to treat it right. Have the occasional small treat-but make it a treat, and not a daily occurance. When I eat at a fast food place or have an ice cream cone, it is a treat-not an all the time thing like it is to some people.
Don't focus too much on being "skinny" or weighing in at exactly 140 like you did before your children. Make small goals for yourself-like commiting to working out 5 days a week, or to drinking more water, or small things you can commit to. Make your weight loss goals in small goals of 5 pounds at a time-rather than saying "I am going to lose 40 pounds by May"-especially since it is pretty much March. :lol: Don't set TOO hard of goals that will be impossible to achieve-but DO challenge yourself.
Aphil

((((HELLLLLLOOOOooooo)))))
Well I am still busy with school and instead of looking to exercise to clear the stress I have picked up another hobby. I was invited to a baby shower this weekend. She is expecting a baby girl. I just found out this past Sunday I had been invited, so I got busy. Let me show you what I have been working on...

That's beautiful! I'm totally incabable of doing stuff like that. No talent for it, no patience, either. I always envied people who could create beautiful things.

Kena,

Absolutely, positively gorgeous!!!!

Hello everyone!
Kina-I LOVE to chrochet! I did that like a madwoman when I was pregnant with my daughter...part of my "nesting" syndrome that time around, I guess. ;) That blanket is gorgeous! I am sure your friend will just love it!
Well, I have been super busy...I am actually on the way out the door going to get part of the tattoo on my stomach that I told you all about a while back. It will have to be done in like 2 or 3 sittings...OW. It's gonna be a biggie...but-it is going to have some of the symbolism of my children like I taked about earlier-plus some sun/moon/stars type of stuff. What was funny, is when I made my appointment, I looked through all of the artists personal books there-and there was one artist that I really liked-so I asked the guy at the desk "Who did the work in this album?" He said..."See that big, big dude way down there?" So-it looks like I am getting tattooed today by Big Foot. :lol:
I will post more when I get back.
Aphil

Hello all!

Welcome, rachel! I hope you find that this group will help you. You asked "who has that kind of willpower?" - YOU do! You can do it! We all get to a point when we realize the connection between what we eat and how blah we feel...then somehow we're able to start making better choices, exercising consistently, and when you start to see/feel some results, that just keeps the commitments going. Welcome again!

It must be very difficult to have a loved one in the service, particularly at this time...I hope, as we all do, that things will not progress to worse.

Hello to everyone else! Kanola, haha, "too hot to ride"! wow, tryin'hard and I would love some of that heat! I do so envy you; but realize that you waited through the cold and rainy winter for it. Enjoy!!! Good for you for stepping up your exercise, and kicking the sweets, if you see those needing improvement. You are dedicated!

Hi tryin'hard! We had a day of milder temps yesterday, around 35, and the sun was shining, so seeing some melting snow/ice water along the roads was nice. Then it dips down at night and freezes over, making for some slick paths. Yikes! But it's March 2, which means spring is not too far away. Thanks for the input on the loose skin; I would not ever do any kind of operation in that respect. It's good to know that there is still a year's worth of shrinkage possible.

Kina, hi, that crocheting is marvelous! Beautiful piece of work. Add yet another talent to your accomplished person list!

Aphil, congrats on being complimented on your form in class! And woo-hoo to the tattoo starting to be done - "Bigfoot", that's hilarious!

Hello GeorgiaLady and RavenToy! Hope everything's going well for you.

Nancy, are you busy with moving??? I miss hearing from you, and hope everything is okay! Has your new medication dosage helped you any?

You know, each time I read posts here, I can find something useful, something that smacks me in the forehead and says "open you eyes and listen!" - I have slipped into the bad habit of having small amounts of some kind of cakey sweet, like a half a bakery muffin, in the afternoons, or in the morning with the breakfast coffee...and I thought that because they were small amounts, not that much harm was being done...but with Aphil saying that it just makes her want/crave more, I realize that is the same with me. And rachel - you saying "if you know that bite of food is gonna make you feel like crap" - right on!!! So thank you ladies, for the help.

I have also totally sliped with my water habit!! blah!! I willmake a huge effort to do better with that this week, and try to hold myself accountable! meaning truthfully reporting to you all! haha

Have a great Sunday!

Your friend, Holly

Hi holly...Thanks for the kinds words...where in vermont are you? I grew up in north bennington and just moved to louisiana from there...i miss home. I have lived all over, hawaii, alaska, tennessee, and now here in louisiana,but vermont will always be home. Good luck to you....:)

everyone thanks so much for support. I feel this place will help.
:D
~rachel~

Hello everyone!
Well, the tattoo isn't exactly started, but we did make some progress. The shop had a major surge of walk-ins come in, so I am coming in on Saturday to get things started-but we did mark the placement of the first part, and he made a pattern to use from my drawing to proper scale.
My stretch marks are pretty much in 3 patches...one on each side of my hips-about a fist sized area starting right about a couple inches below the antural wasitline, and then a double fisted sized area a couple inches below my naval-this is where most of the work is to be done. He said it would take about 4 sittings to get done...fun for me. :eek:
I will be so glad to get them covered up though, I am really self conscious about them.
Well-I am finally down another pound to 184! :cb:
I am so glad the scales have started moving again! I am getting so close to the 170's-I WILL be in the 170's by the time shorts season is here...
My husband and I went out to dinner Friday night-we usually go to Applebee's when we go out, because ours carries their low fat menu items, and all of their low fat menu items are under 800 calories. I had a Roma chicken and veggie rollup and it had a side of fresh pineapple and strawberries. YUM. Call your local Applebee's and ask them if they have low fat items on their menu, and if so-GO! You can get the nutrition information here at 3FC in the restaurant nutrition section of the site. They have a great blackenend chicken salad for like 400 some calories...it is great also! It is nice to eat out without it being a "cheat."
It is definitely one of my saving graces-a nice dinner out with my husband-I get low calorie, he gets a big fat steak, we both get time to ourselves (we do this when grandma has the kids overnight) and everyone is happy.
Well, I need to get going. I have to exercise, and then get ready to pick up the children-my stepmother and father have taken them to go see a "Cinderella" musical.
Bye!
Aphil

Okay I said I would do this at some time. I have to admit I haven't put much effort into this because I have been swamped with school.

1. I have four children...2 boys, 2 girls
2. I am in college; educating myself to become a paraprofessional accoutant.
3. I have 3 brothers...1 older and 2 younger.
4. I collect frogs...I prefer them "au natural" than wearing clothes; I think it looks weird when the frogs have clothes on...call me strange.
5. I also collect snowmen but they don't sale them year round.
6. The day I met my husband was the first day of our life.
7. I worked in a meat market for a couple of years and then was transferred to the seafood side of the market; worked there for a year.
8. I like to do silly things with my kids and with whomever.
9. I crochet and knit baby blankets.
10. I am now teaching my boys to crochet a granny square as we speak.

Way to go Aphil!:spin: I'm sure you will be in the 170's before you know it!:dancer:

Kina, You must be one of the busiest people I know. :dizzy:
You have taken multi-tasking to a new level!!

Well it's about a month from now that my DH and I will be going on our long awaited cruise. We are going to be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary (March 19th) and the cruise is on April 6th. My son, who is 17 1/2 does not want to stay with his grandparents and has asked to stay home alone while we are gone. I totally trust him but I'm a bit anxious about letting him be here by himself. He has promised to eat over at his grandparents every day and call them several times a day so I think we are going to let him do this.

Another thing I am stressing about is the change in routine that is going to happen when we go on the cruise. Right now I'm really watching what I eat and working out and I know that is going to change somewhat when we go on vacation. I just don't want to gain any weight back when we go on the trip. I also want to be able to jump right back into my routine when we get back. I'm planning on taking my journal with me on the trip and writing down everything I eat so hopefully that will help.

I was hoping to have more weight off before the trip but realistically, I think I will only be down to the mid 160's. Thank goodness for those "special" Carol Weir bathing suits that hold you in. :sssh:

Georgia Lady-I am totally for bathing suits with tummy control, pantyhose with control top, and tank tops with hidden bra shelf supports...and if I was small chested I would probably take total advantage of those new bras with the water pockets in the cups. :D
There are lots of great things that you can eat on your cruise that are low in calories if you pay attention. Shrimp cocktail is a great choice-I get one of these and a salad when I got to Red Lobster. Very low in calories. Baked potatoes are also a great choice-ask for any sour cream or butter to be on the side-and use only 1 tablespoon of whichever you like best. A average sized baked potato is 100 calories, a large "Idaho Baker" size is 200-and the 1 tablespoon of butter or sour cream is about 100-so 200 to 300 total-not too bad. I am sure they will have lots of great salads as well. White wine or champagne is a great lower calorie choice-much lower than fruity foo-foo drinks-about 100-120 calories for a wine glass full. This is the best choice for the occasional celebration drink. There should be losts of great foods that you can eat on your trip. As far as exercise-make your husband dance with you, and walk a lot around the ship. They may also have some sort of fitness class or workout room-a lot of cruise ships do these days-if so check it out. Going on a trip does not mean you have to go off of your plan-just take your journal, and your book of calorie counts, and make smart choices-and have a great time! 20 years is definitely something to celebrate! ;)
My mother came up to visit with the kids, so I got a chanve to go out and get my hair cut-it needed it really bad. I have one of those blazer styled leather jackets that are popular now, and it was actually nice enough today to wear it instead of my winter coat-I sure got a surprise! In the fall it fit, but it was uncomfortable a bit-snug through the shoulders when I moved around a lot and snug when I have it zipped up...now it fits perfectly! I hadn't even thought about it having been a few months since I had last worn it...until I slipped it on today.
I am feeling really well today-no cravings, my eating has been right on plan-I have felt great. My exercise has been consistent and I have been giving myself that little extra push during my workouts-and I can really feel the difference. My mini goal for the month is to hit 181-to reach a total loss of 30 pounds. I am only 3 pounds away from that little milestone-and I am going to reward myself somehow for reaching that mark when the time comes-which is hopefully SOON! :lol:
Everyone have a fantastic day-drink plenty of water, exercise, stay on your eating plan, and do something good for yourself-even if it is just putting on some great hand lotion before bed.
Aphil

Thanks Aphil, Great advice as always!

Good morning!
Let me tell you...I have been burning some butter this week! I am down 2 more pounds to 182-almost to my 30 pound loss mark!!!
To some of the newer people-I know that 3 pounds have dropped off in the past couple days-but I am not starving myself or anything-I eat anywhere from 1300-1800 calories per day, depending on my hunger level. My weight loss always tends to do this for some reason...I won't lose a thing for a month, and then it goes down in a spurt...stops again, spurts again...and so on. I guess I am just wierd. :dizzy:
My sister in law is supposed to be here this afternoon to watch the kids while I go to dance class tonight. The kids just love being with her.
My mother was over yesterday, and she cleaned out her jewelry box...she's like "I have this ring I don't wear hardly ever if you want it...I looked and it was one of those gold rings with the big clusters of little diamonds-there's like 23 of them on this thing! I was like "heck yeah!" (She must be nuts...who gives away diamonds?) Well I obviously scooped it up...and I am not going to wear it until I hit my 30 pound lost mark the next pound down...well, I guess that is my 30 pound reward-and it didn't cost me anything! :lol: Now I have some more incentive to get off another pound!
I hope everyone is doing well...I would like everyone to share their top 5 low calorie fixes for "sweet and or chocolate attacks." Everyone has their favorites, and it is nice to hear some new ideas now and then.
Mine-
1.) 2 Hersheys Kisses-50 calories-(I suck on them to make them last)
2.) Sillouhettes ice cream sandwich-130 calories
3.) Jello Fat Free chocolate pudding cup-100 calories
4.) Popsicle brand sugar free Fudgesicle-45 calories
5.) a cut up apple with a dab of Marzetti's fat free caramel apple dip
Aphil

Aphil - Free jewelry!! Now that's hard to beat. :p

Top 5 Chocolate Fixes:

1. Carbolite bar - 100 - 140 cals.

2. Tootsie Pop - 60 cals.

3. Low - cal Fudgesicle - anything under 90 cals.

4. 1 scoop Non- fat/ Sugar Free Blue Bunny Frozen Yogurt - 90 cals.

5. Chocolate "0 carb bar" that's really a meal replacement but I pretend it's really a chocolate bar. 180 cals.

***if I had a See's candy store nearby I'd get one of their chocolate pops. Don't know what the calorie count would be but they last a long time. Used to love them when I lived in Calif.***

Hello everyone,

I am sorry I havent been posting lately, but I really am having a hard time with everything. I think everything is just getting to me. I am really struggling to stay on program and cant seem to get past 180 pounds. I know my thyroid going all whacky again has something to do with it, but it has also caused me to lose all my willpower and motivation. I dont know how to shake it off.

This house still hasnt sold yet, Bruce and I are still 1100 miles apart. I still miss my kids, family and friends as much as ever.

I havent exercised in almost a month because of my stupid shoulder ( but its getting better). I feel like such a failure.
I sure wish I could find that person I was a few months back when I was so full of motivation and determination.

Ok sorry to be such a bummer :(

Take care everyone !

nancy :df:

Hi Snowey -

It sounds like you're going through a LOT right now. Just take care of yourself, and things will work out. Sometimes I have to work really hard to remember that just making it through a day or a week is a success, regardless if I did it gracefully or not.

:grouphug:

Hello everyone,
Nancy-I am sorry to hear that you are feeling so down lately. I am sure that your thyroid medication switch and your not being to exercise lately is the main cause for your "weight plateau." Just try to stay on plan as much as you can...and maybe go for a nice walk now and then since that doesn't involve your shoulder so much...it really will make you feel better. The key is to pump yourself up into doing it...that is the hardest part.
Do not feel like a failure! I, for one, WILL NOT let you fail. I care way too much. ;) I know that things are getting stressful, and that you must miss your husband so much. Just try to concentrate on not gaining, instead of losing right now-and that will be a success right there-not gaining weight when you are stressed and want toe at all of the time.
Have you asked your realtor about what you can possibly do to help the house go quicker? You might consider any suggestions they have...
I really do hope that you are felling better soon...try to get a walk in now and then, just do what you can-those exercise endorphins really will make you feel better. I promise. :D
Big hugs out to you girl! :grouphug:
I had a really nice class last night...our teacher taught us some traveling bellydance moves...like moves that you would use to travel across the stage rather than be in one spot. Let me tell you...I was dripping with sweat when it was all done with, and my thighs were burning, but it felt great. I really look forward to this every single week. I am getting to know a few of the girls in class a bit-and really enjoying it. :)
GeorgiaLady-that Tootsie Pop idea is one I am going to have to use. I need something that lasts a while to have when we rent a movie. What is it about movies that make you want to munch on everything in the house? :lol:
Well, everyone have a fantastic day-and take this one day at a time. Try to visualize yourself making healthy choices in a restaurant, or putting on those athletic shoes and getting in your exercise...I read that visualizing yourself making good choices beforehand helps you actually do it when the time comes!
Aphil

Okay-some of you that have been here a while probably remember that a while back around Christmas, I bought a cute pair of Old Navy boot cut jeans in a size 16 for motivational purposes...(I wore an 18 when I bought them, and I was around 192lbs.) Well, I tried them on when I bought them, and I could get them up to about the tops of my thighs-no further. I have had them sitting on the dresser for motivation, and I actually FORGOT about them! I remembered them today, and thought, well I am 10 pounds thinner now, I should be able to pull them up...maybe after another pound or two I can even zip them. Well...I could pull them all the way up AND zip them!!!!! I fit into a size 16! (To all of the newbies, when I started back up after having my son, I was in a size 20) They are still a bit more snug than I would like, so I am not going to wear them yet, but I would say that in a couple more weeks I should be able to wear them around, after another couple pounds are gone. My goal is to wear them to my son's birthday party next month. (mid-April)
:cb: :cb: :cb:
Aphil

Hello everyone!

First - Nancy - I am reaching out to you, and giving you a warm hug!!!! I am so sorry to hear how down you are feeling. You are still that motivated person; but you have been SO strong to endure having your husband so far away, and you living alone, getting the house ready...of course you are feeling overwhelmed! Then injuring your shoulder, and having to curtail your newly-formed exercise program...and then thyroid being out-of-whack...you poor girl!!:(

But as Aphil says, we will NOT let you slip and become lost!!! We do care so for you, one of our sisters! All I can say is that things will get better, there will soon be a day that you will feel more yourself, and able to say "yeah, things stink now, but I'm okay with it" or something like that :p

Big hug again to you!:grouphug:

Hi Rachel - I live about 25 minutes north of Montpelier. My grandparents had a farm in E. Montpelier since 1940; that's how we came to love Vermont. And my dad was born in Montpelier. I met my husband in Pennsylvania; we took a trip up here in our first year of marriage; it was his first time here. He loved it as much as I (but he didn't see it in winter, hahaha :devil: ). We've lived here now for 20 years. The winters ARE killer, though; and this recent one is especially difficult as we bought two motorcycles last year, and are dying to get riding again!

Hi Aphil - CONGRATS on the jeans fitting!!! That is SUCH a great feeling!!! Keep it rolling, girl! When is that high-school reunion?...nothing like a little revenge to keep us motivated, haha! and thanks for the Applebees suggestions.

Hi Kina! Great list about yourself. Hope you are well.

Hi GeorgiaLady and RavenToy! Hope you ladies are happy, moving and grooving! Sheesh, that sounded lame :lol:

Hi Kanola! I hope your extra work-outs are making you pleased!

I'm seeing improvement each week with doing more of the leg exercises - maybe not so much visual, but I can get farther along in the video without the BURNING and the TREMBLING (and the FLAY-VIN for those Simpsons fans :lol: ) I don't think I've admitted yet my goal for my legs, would be to be able to wear shorts without feeling self-conscious; and the naughty goal would be to wear a mini-skirt with heels in public without feeling foolish!:D

Well, off to bed for me. Have a great day tomorrow, everyone!

Your friend,
Holly

Good morning everyone!
I hope everyone is doing well! I am just finishing breafkfast,and am going to get right into my workout-which is cardio/dancing today-and then a few extra minutes on these abs!
Holly-they have not set a date for the reunion yet-it is still in the early planning stages-I am hoping that it is later in the year, so I can really wow them! ;)
Aphil

Hooray for Aphil....That is so great. What an inspiration you are...you seem to be right about where i am now. I have lost 13lbs. so now I am at 180. Size 16. This is a great site. At times when I feel hungry, I read this site...so much to read. I have been doing my pilates machine. I love it. It works me from where i need it most,my stomach. I am sore and i never thought i would say this but it feels great. Thanks peeps.....

What a great group this is. I don't want to go through a single day without checking this thread.

Some of us are UP:flow2: and some of us DOWN :no: but we're all in this TOGETHER :balloons: and that's how we are going to achieve our goals. No one gets left out. When I first joined this group, I was very depressed. Had just been reading posts for a while before I started posting. Almost everyone here has been down at some point for various reasons and we can all say that things do get better!! ;) thank goodness!!

Nancy, hang in there and keep coming back because we all care about how you are doing.

Holly, you will be in those shorts before you know it. You are doing great!!

Aphil, your posts are my inspirtion....you have been so supportive to everyone, it is fantastic to see how well you are doing.

Keep posting everyone, I don't know how I'd do this without you!!:goodvibes

Good evening!
GeorgiaLady-thanks for such a sweet post! You are so right-we have all had our good days and our bad days...and we all are in this together. Yesterday for me was a very good day-with the jeans and all-but today has not been as good...so that just proves the point! :)
It hasn't been BAD, but today I have had all of the fun T.O.M. cramps and "bad food cravings." I have eaten some fattier foods today than I should have...and I actually feel awful now that I have eaten them. I can tell I am used to eating lower fat, lower sugar, higher quality foods. Now I feel like just laying there...BLAH. The eating bad-for-you foods just does not have the satisfying feeling that it once used to. I actually do not like the feeling now of being stuffed. I feel like a big old pig...:lol:
It is actually good for me to feel this way. I remember the feeling,and it makes me much likely to do this in the future. What is it with the monthly hormones that make you crave yucky stuff anyway?
I DID get in my exercise though today-and I plan on being 100% back on track tomorrow.
Aphil

Good morning everyone! Well, winter came back to us! We got 8 inches of snow yesterday and it looks and feels like a beautiful January day outside!! Spring will be here soon. Spring will be here soon. Spring....
Nancy, a big huge hug to you! You are so strong and you will make it through this yucky couple of weeks! You and Bruce will be together soon!
Aphil--congrats on the jeans! ANd, Old Navy jeans run small! I have a pair of ON jeans and they fit beautifully, but I won't wear them because I don't like the number! (I know, it's silly. But, I just hate to wear something when I'm not THAT size anymore!) You'll be wearing them soon and they'll be baggy before you know it! You are doing so well!
I never thought, in my 40 years that I'd say this, but don't you just love to sweat?!?! I went to my daughter's basketball game and they needed someone to run the sidelines. Phew! Was I sweating, but man, did it feel good! It feels so good to be able to do it. After so many years of planning NOT to exert myself, it feels so good to be able to!
Georgia Lady--I'm with you with the Tootsie Pops! Have you discovered the mini ones? I don't know how many calories they are, but if a regular one is 60, I imagine they're about 25 and they're so cute! We are driving to Florida next month and I need to munch when we're driving and thought I'd pick up some of those! For my sweet tooth, I also like:
1. corn pops cereal. I know they have no fiber, but I eat a cup for dessert sometimes.
2. Chocolate chip caramel rice cakes. Just enough chocolate and each one is only 60 calories.
3. The Skinny Cow ice cream sandwiches that Aphil wrote about. Lately, I"m hooked on the coffee ones.
4. WW Giant sundaes, especially before TOM. They hit the spot and they're BIG! (Only 150 calories, though!)
5. Peppermint tea with an Equal in it. I'm not big on putting sugar or sweetener in my tea and coffee, but this little snack not only warms me up, but hits that sweet tooth a little bit. I make a big mug and sip it while I'm making dinner.
Well all, here's to a super day! Make it a good one!

Good morning!
Tryin'Hard-I did not know that Sillhouettes made the coffee flavored ice cream sandwiches! I am going to have to look for those, or ask our Wal-Mart to carry them! YUMMY!
I am also a lover of kid cereals...I usually stay out of them, but every now and then I measure out a single serving of Lucky Charms, Corn Pops, or Cookie Crisp and munch as a bedtime snack now and then when a sweet attack hits. That is actually a good "munching snack" to put in a little Ziploc bag and sneak into the movie theatre to have while you avoid the extra buttered fattening popcorn! My husband loves the movies, and I usually sneak in something and just order a diet soda-Jason eats the popcorn.
I have also seen those mini-Tootsie pops...my daughter got a couple in her bag last Halloween. They ARE really cute! :lol:
I am really trying to stay on track today after yesterdays cravings thing...I had Cream of Wheat cereal sweetened with Splenda and a Yoplait Light Strawberry yogurt for breakfast, and have already set out a banana on the counter for my morning snack...so breakfast and morning snack today only total 300 calories. I try to to what Georgia Lady does a lot-to find foods that are pretty large for the amount of calories they contain...bananas really fit the bill at 100 calories each for a medium one.
I have been doing a lot better with getting my dairy in...it was a mini-goal for me a while back. I have been getting in 1-2 servings of dairy every day for about a month now-when I was just getting it from a supplement-so it is much better. I do prefer Yoplait Light yogurt over all of the other brands-so that helps out a lot-finding a brand I like well.
Today is my strength training day-I really need to get busy and get it done. These arms really need it...I am starting to see some definition in my shoulders and biceps a bit more...hopefully my triceps and abs muscles will start to emerge when a few more pounds are gone.
I have noticed that my endurance is getting a lot better-I am not feeling like I am huffing and puffing when I climb stairs, and I do not get as tired when doing things like shoveling snow, etc. so I am seeing results in my overall fitness level.
I hoep everyone is doing well-and Nancy, I hope you are feeling better. We really miss you around here, and love you very much! I feel like I have a slew of wonderful friends here at 3FC, and I care about all of you, and consider you all very much friends.
Take care everyone,
Aphil

Hi everyone,

Well, I’ll tell you that we all have some great ideas around here!!! I didn’t know about the mini Tootsie Pops or the Sillhouettes coffee ice cream. I never was a big coffee drinker until about 2 years ago and my son (17) wanted half a cup in the morning so I just made myself one at the same time. I find that I’ve gotten quite fond of it now and am very put out if I can’t have it.:stress: I put f/f half-n-half in it along with a couple of packets of Splenda.

Now that I’m keeping a close track of what I’m eating, I’ve noticed that it’s easier to come up with meals when I have a “senior” day :doh: and can’t think of anything to prepare. I just start looking back through the note pad and select a meal I’ve used in the past.

Today, I’ve already had 3 mini-meals, although this is not my usual way of eating, and it’s working out. I need to be more flexible and try different approaches to my weight management.

I have a family birthday party to go to this weekend and I plan on eating at home before I go. Hopefully my willpower will be stronger and I won’t pig out.:ink:

Here's my list of low calorie favs that I like to fill up on:

Brocolli Green Beans Cabbage
Lettuce Onions Celery
Tomatoes Asparagus Mushrooms
Spinach Strawberries Grapefruit
Oranges Apples Bananas

There are many more but these are the ones I use all the time. If I NEED bread, I will have a piece or two of Earth Grains 35 cal. white or wheat bread. There's 2 grams of fiber in each slice. Yeah Fiber!!!!:hyper:

Okay, I saved the best for last. One more lb. down!! I’ve been so happy all day…just when you think the scale is NEVER going to move…BOOM!! :cb:

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!

:grouphug:

Many hugs to you Snowey. Put a smile on your face.
Kina

Hello everyone,

Thank you so much for the "pick me up" Hugs to each and everyone of you! :grouphug:

I am really trying to get my motivation back. Every day I start out great and then by afternoon I am on a carbfest!!!! :eek:

Ok, here is what is new with me.

I gave notice at my job and my last day of work is March 14th.
My hubby will be home the afternoon of the 14th or the morning of the 15th. We will have a huge moving sale on the 16th and load everything else up into a truck and we are out of here. We will fly out on the following weekend to Calgary.
The house has not sold yet, but we decided to let the real estate just take care of it. It will sell eventually.

Ill be in Calgary until April 11th and then I fly to the states to see my kids, and grandson. Ill be there for 6 weeks!!!!!!!!! I am so excited. I will spend about 2 weeks in Mississippi with my son dil and grandson and then Ill go back to Illinois to my daughters and visit with the rest of my family.

It means being apart again from Bruce for a month and a half, but he says I need to go see my kids. He is such a sweetheart !

The therapy seems to be working well on my arm and I have one more visit on the 18th. I have not been doing anything to hurt it again. But I am trying to do my walk away the pounds tape at least 4 times a week.

My plan for tomorrow is to wake up with motivation, determination and discipline. I will drink enough water to float a boat and I will stay strong :strong:

Ok its bedtime, I wonder what Ill dream about tonight,, having the strangest dreams lately,,,, dreamt I was at a House Party with Simon Cowell the Judge from American Idol. :lol:

Did I tell you about my dream also about Judge Judy???? I dreamt that she gave me all her shoes and then took me to Hawaii!!!!
geesh what is with me dreaming about Judges :judge: ????????

Should I take it as a sign that I may be called for Jury Duty soon????? :lol: :lol:

Ok im out of here... :wave:
Night Night

Take care my friends you guys are the best !!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

Nancy :df:

Hello Everyone,

Nancy, I can see how things are already turning the corner for the better! :dance: I'm dancing with joy for you!! You are going to have such a wonderful time visiting with your children and grandson and then will be home again with your husband AND your house will sell soon -- I just know it!

Aphil, I think your weight loss system is somehow rubbing off on me. I was down another lb. today!! One lb. yesterday and one lb. today after going a week and a half with no change. I can't figure that out. It's like getting to open a Christmas present every morning when the scale gives you the good news!

:gift:

Everyone, I hope you are all doing great and your families are well. I know spring is just around the corner...it will surely lift our spirits up.:angel:

Hello everyone! It's been a loooooooong time since I have posted here but I'm back! I have been reading posts but I just stopped posting for a while. It seemed that everytime I was posting, I was just notifying everyone that...yep, screwed up the diet again. So I gave it a break for a while.

I'm glad to see that some of the people posting (when I was active) are still posting. And it's nice to see some new people have joined the group too!

I have to admit that I am now officially about to throw the scale out the window....after a couple of good hits with a hammer. My weight loss has been up and down. I am unfortunately one of those that can easily gain about 3-5 pounds in one day. I know that it is water weight, but still frustrating, none the less. I also noticed that instead of getting motivated to DO something when I see a gain, it only depresses me and I tend to fall into the downward spiral that may last a day, week, or months.

So here is my little plan. My goal is to weigh once a week, if not every other week (haven't decided yet). I am shooting for a one pound loss a week. I am hoping that by not weighing all the time, I won't get caught up in the numbers and my focus will fall on what it should be...my health!

I am currently working out at a gym 4 times a week. My main focus is on cardio but I am also lifting light weights for some definition. The other three days, I have been taking leisure walks with my dog and husband for about 2 miles. I am really just trying to get back into getting some form of exercise every day. I really do sleep better and feel much better about myself when I am active.

Well, enough of my babbling, it's good to be back! I'm getting ready to take my little dog for her walk right now. My husband is working today so he'll miss our little journey. Sad thing is, he'd probably rather be working than exercising!
:lol:
Hope everyone has a wonderful day! Nancy, keep your chin up! It's great that your moving to be with your husband. I'll bet that alone, combined with visiting your children will help you to get out of this rut.

Welcome back Jacklyn!!!
I totally agree with you about not weighing yourself everyday! If you are one that jumps on the scale each morning and get eithet too elated, or too depressed over the small fluctuations-then I doubly recommend it. ;)
Weighing in once a week is definitely enough. It is much better to see 1/2-2 pounds gone once a week, then to get happy, upset, happy, upset...when you jump on the scale all of the time.
I am glad you are back...there is a lot less of me than there used to be-pretty soon there will be a lot less of you too!
Aphil
(who as we speak has silk flowers and hot glue sticks all over the living room...why on earth does my future sister in law have to have SO many wedding attendants?)

Hello everyone!

Yes Aphil, I am definitely one of those that you described. It seems that my mood for the day may depend on the number on the scale. I noticed that you have lost alot during my absense. Thumbs up to you girl!:)

It's also great to see that Holly and tryin' hard are still maintaining their losses!

I did pretty good yesterday. I got almost 3 miles in on the treadmill at the gym and then took my dog for a leisure 2 mile journey. So about 5 miles for me!:) my eating was within my calorie range and I was able to add lots of vegies and some fruit, so I am pleased.

I bought some slim fast snack bars yesterday while at Walmart. I have to admit that I cannot stay on any kind of slim fast diet but I have found that the meal bars are pretty good for when I am wanting something sweet. Anyways, I bought some of the Peanut Caramel, and I'll have to say that they were pretty good! Kinda small but for 120 calories, beggers cant be choosers!

Well, I better get started on my day. We have our house up for sale and I am trying to sort things that I can go ahead and box up vs. things that I want to put in a yard sale. Then I plan on taking a walk. Everyone have a great day!:)

Hiyas everyone :)

Nancy - wow. Talk about a plan of action. You make me excited just reading it!

Hiyas Jacklyn, nice to meet you!

GeorgiaLady - is not our weather today gorgeous!?!? I really MUST get out there and do some pre-yard work. The daffydowndillies are lovely today.

I seem to be rocking right along... almost a little nervous about when this will stop! I started working out again yesterday. I started with a nice mild interval session. 50 minutes of walking with 1 minute runs every 10 minutes. I'll do that twice a week, slowly upping the length of the running as I get my endurance back. I made up a plan of action, to interval twice a week, regular walk three times a week, and perhaps do taebo twice a week - at least till I get my free weights. In addition, I've drafted my daughter into helping me in the evenings with pushups, situps, and arm wrestling! rahr! I still win.

The food I'm eating is .. great!! Still using fitday to track my calories and I really think that has helped me SO much to make sure I'm eating enough in a day. I can not believe how much food I can eat in a day and still lose weight. It's simply fantastic. I know there will be days where I want to just stuff my face with all sorts of horrible things, but for now - wow. I seem to have found an eating plan (if you will) that satisfies me and allows me to lose weight and still be very healthy. A plan I can stay on for the rest of my life, basically. Exactly what I was aiming for.

Hello!
jacklyn-if you are wanting something for the occasional chocolate fix that is a little less calories that a Slim-Fast snack bar-try the Hershey Sweet Escapes candy bars. They have them in Wal-Mart or in grocery stores, usually where the hanging bagged type of candy is, or the big bags of candy. They are in a bright green package. They are small reduced fat chocolate bars in a few flavors, and I believe they run from 70-110 calories each. They are usually an occasional nighttime tv snack for me.
Well-I have had a wonderful weekend. Since my motivational Old Navy 16 jeans fit, I dug out all of my old size 16's and tried them all on. I am officially going to throw out all of my size 18's as soon as I lose 2 more pounds and am at 180. I could get them all on and zipped up no problem, a few pairs were a little snug, but they fit-so 2 more pounds down and all the 18's go out the door. I am so glad. I went down to my inlaw's Friday night-and my mother in law told me "I look like I have lost weight since she saw me last." She saw me about 4 weeks ago-so these last couple pounds really must have done something! :D
My husband was gone all day yesterday helping a friend move, and the kids were at teh in'laws-so I had the whole day here alone to work on the wedding flowers-I finished 8 bouttonierres, 3 corsages, a junior bridesmaid bouquet! I only have to do 5 bridesmaid bouquets now and I am DONE with flowers.
Aphil

Huge congrats on the "new" clothes, Aphil! I can't wait to start squeezing into my old stuff! I started diggin it out of the drawers after I read your last post .. it looks so .. teeny! I made a special place for my little shorts and the cool jeans with the zip up legs. I can stare at them as I'm falling asleep and dream of wearing them again. ;)

Congrats Aphil on getting so much accomplished with the wedding flowers. Your MIL sounds like a real sweetie too -- there are some nice ones out there---I love mine too!

RavenToy, the temp. is currently 78 degrees...I can't believe it. The people across the street have put in a new "huge" pool in their side yard and are SWIMMING in it!!! I'm am not jealous...no I'm not!! I hope this beautiful weather lasts...but I gotta hunch that winter's not quite over yet.

Just got back from the family birthday party and managed not to overeat or partake of any of the 3 desserts. I'm starting to venture out now and then to a fast food restaurant and make wise choices. Not only am I cutting way back on portions, but I'm also choosing better items from the menu and of course, logging in the calories. I've set up a visit with a friend to my favorite Chinese place that I haven't visited in two months. I plan on asking for a "to go" box when I order and putting half my lunch in there before I begin to eat. I'm hoping that this way I can have my FAVORITE lunch two days in a row without overdoing the calories.

My DH is watching the the race in Atlanta right now but we'll go out for a drive when it's over. Too nice to stay inside.

Welcome back, Jacklyn!! So glad to have you back here with us! Congrats on your plan! We all know we succeed the best when we have a plan! Don't worry about the scale. Throw it away if it's going to haunt you!
Aphil--throw those pants away!! Isn't that such a great feeling! You are doing so well!
RavenToy--you have a great exercise plan! I love the idea of the running mixed in with the walking, but I have a question--what are you wearing on your feet? I have walking shoes and I have running shoes. When I'm walking, my legs and feet feel great in the walking shoes and when I go for a run, it feels funny to just 'walk' in them!
Speaking of running, I went for a 2 mile run today. The sun is shining and the temps are in the 40's (GeorgieLady--I am SO jealous of your weather!) and it felt great to run a little bit.
K.C.--when you go out for Chinese, check to see if they have a 'diet menu.' This usually consists of steamed veggies and some meat and where I go, the sauce is served on the side and you have the choice of brown rice! Good luck! You've had great success making good choices!
Well, I hope you all had a good weekend and are ready for a great week! Aphil, you usually give us some good focus at the beginning of the week--can't wait to read it tomorrow morning!

Hello ladies!!!

Nancy, you sound alot better - I'm so glad to hear of your trip! Hey, we will be kinda close to each other, relatively speaking, at the end of April, beginning of May - I will be in St. Louis, MO, April 30th, and May 1st, with motorcycling friends. That's not too far from Illinois, is it? well, a few hundred miles, instead of a few thousand! lol

Drink enough water to "float a boat" - you are too funny! And I'm trying to do that as well. I've been slackin' on the water at work, so I MUST try harder. Besides the benefits to our weight, and body, it helps me to think that I am also helping my "over 40" skin.

Hi jacklyn!!! Good to hear from you!!! Say, if you pick a day of the week to weigh yourself, tell me which day, and I'll use the same day. I have also experienced days of 5 pound differences in MY weight, and it really stinks to see the scale that high. So I need to limit my weighing to once a week, also.

Yeah Aphil, and GeorgiaLady, for the lost pounds!!!!!!

Hi RavenToy; and Rachellyn, nice pic of yourself!

I am JEALOUS of the warm Georgia temperatures you ladies are enjoying, but you are wise to live there! We still have as much snow as ever. I am a little nervous thinking that we are setting out on our road trip in 50 days...ALOT of snow has to melt, and temps have to climb quite a bit before we can ride!

Hi tryin'hard, wow, you guys got the most recent snow dump, rather than us! and continued congrats to you for maintaining your loss.

Now that our time frame is closer to the afore-mentioned road trip, I am pumped to pare off the final few pounds, to help see what's lying beneath. There will be alot of pictures taken, both by husband and I, and the folks we are meeting, who will then post the pics on our motorcycle forum. So I wanna look good in them all!!

I know that when I dipped down to 142, I felt great. And I have some more muscle development now, thanks to the new Gilad tape and the "Buns of Steel" tape I've been doing...so I am wanting so much to get back down to 142. I'm at 145-146, so that is not too unrealistic, I hope.

What I need to work on is: drinking two liters of water a day; do NOT bring home anything from the bakery, 'cause I just eat it;
watch the portions at dinnertime (NO seconds!!!!)
and watch the bowl(s) :( of cereal in the evening, or piece(s) of toast in the evening. I remember back last year, actually going to bed early to avoid my kitchen-drifting; I might have to do that. When I ask my husband to help me, he WANTS to help, but he feels uncomfortable telling me "hey, you don't want to do that, do you" - so I must be responsible for myself.

So, I've done great so far today; did a LONG work-out; am at 510 calories so far with breakfast and lunch. Dinner will be easy to portion, with ravioli counted out; and sauce measured; I don't skimp on veggies, cause they low-calories, so lots of green beans and cooked carrots AND green salad to fill out my plate...and if I fill up with water, I shouldn't WANT anything else later! or I'll just go to bed to avoid it!:lol:

Positive hopes and hugs to everyone!

Your friend, Holly

Wow Holly .. I keep dreaming of being that weight again. It's going to take me a while to get there, but I'm really looking forward to it!! I moved to GA kind of by accident. I had lived in AK for 35 years, so I'm all too familiar with ice, snow, more ice and snow... *shudder* I spent the first 4 years I was here just thawing out. I absolutely love the weather here.

Tryin'hard - I use shoes that I really probably should replace. I bought these really great nike crosstrainers about 4 years ago, and they are getting sincerely beat up. They've been the only shoes that I felt really comfortable running and walking in. Plus I pronate pretty badly, and for some reason this particular shoe helped a lot with that.

GeorgiaLady - Pleeeeease don't say this weather will go. *g* Yeah yeah, I know it isn't spring *quite* yet. But today was wonderful. All the windows in the house open, the heat off, and the kids and I all schlepping around out in the yard. It was one of those really peaceful but fun kinda days.

Having Cajun grilled catfish for dinner tonight! And I'm even making dirty rice because my kids and boyfriend absolutely love it. I might even have a bite or two. Hope everyone is having a great weekend!

Good morning everyone!
:cb: :cb: :cb:
I have finally reached my 30 pound weight loss mark!!!!!
What a way to start the week, huh?
tryin'hard-you asked a question about the athletic shoes...well running shoes tend to have more "cush" in the heel and a lighter toe, since you usually land the hardest on your heel-and the fronts of the shoes are usually lightweight, and have firm support on the inner sides...so if you are going out for a run, I would recommend you wear the running shoes...walking shoes for the walking...and usually for aerobics, weight training, and sports-cross trainers-which are pretty evenly supported all over for a variety of activities. For run/walk intervals...it really depends on how much you do of each. If you go in 5 minute spurts of 4 min. walk/1 min. run-and repeat that, walking or cross training should be fine-but if you are doing an equal amount of running-I would reccomend wearing the running shoes. I would also reccomend that Raven Toy get new shoes...:lol: Seriously, the firm support that you feel in an athletic shoe when you first try them on is how they SHOULD feel. When they get broken in and soft over the year (or in her case 4 years) and you are wearing them regularly they are not providing the proper support for your feet when working out. I try to replace mine every year-since I wear them for outdoor walking and my weight training-I bellydance barefoot. If I were wearing them daily for my cardio, or doing a lot of outdoor running-close to every day-I would replace them more often, probably twice a year. The proper support of your feet, and protection of your shins and ankles are crucial if you run for exercise.
Well-my motivation is totally on a roll. I am hoping to get into the 170's by the end of the month-and hopefully the 160's by the time summer is in full swing. I am going to continually challenge myself during my workouts-a few extra minutes of cardio, heavier weights on the exercises where I am not feeling the burn like I used to-especially in my biceps...I encourage you all to do the same. When you find that you are going through the motions-you kindof zone out on the treadmill, or you feel like your weights are flying through the air-it is time to challenge yourself. Go up in your weights, or put that treadmill on a bit of an incline...or put the resistance on that exercise bike up a notch. To continue to improve our bodies we need to keep them challenged-and sometimes that means revamping our routine just a bit. Good luck to everyone-have a great Monday!
Aphil

Good job Aphil!! *30* pounds GONE-WOW!! :cp:
(I can't wait until I finally drop below 200!! I am going to SHOUT ! WHEE HAAAAW!!) for now, YOU deserve a big 'ole HAPPY DANCE! :dance: in your honor!

CONGRATS!!!! YOU GO., GILR!

Congrats Aphil!! I'm just looking to hit my first 10, and like Hottie, get below that 200 mark! And yes, I know I need new shoes, Mom. ;) I'll be ok with these for a couple more weeks though, till after I pay off a few bills and pick up that starter freeweight set. Priorities, yaknow.

Raventoy-if you stay on plan...you should be under the 200 mark next month no problem...I did a big happy dance when I hit 199-and I will do one for you both when you get there!
(commences to shredding her size 18's one by one)
Aphil

Way to go Aphil!! :flow1: You are on a roll girl!!

Holly, I can't wait to get down to the weight you are. You are doing great!!

RavenToy, I'm keeping my fingers crossed that we are going to keep having these warm temps...couldn't believe how windy it got later in the day though. Just no more rain for a while, I hope.

Tryin'hard, I am eagerly anticipating my little veture out to the Chinese restaurant...I'll see if they have a "low cal" option...never even thought about that. Before I starting trying to lose weight, my husband and I would visit a Chinese buffet about once a week...boy was that a big no no!! I didn't realize how many calories we were eating and thought it would be hard to give up. I like the idea of going somewhere and ordering just what you want and paying just for that. The whole buffet concept is not good for me...I wish I could go to Outback and order ala carte and half-portions. I have the most awful time not wanting to waste food...I was raised to clean my plate and that is so hard not to do when you go out!:cbg:

Hope everyone's week is off to a great start!!

K.C.--lots of strategies for eating out:
1. order an appetizer and a salad. Most appetizers are big enough for a dinner!
2. do not be afraid to ask for stuff on the side and don't be ashamed to send it back if it doesn't come the way you ordered it. remember--you're paying big bucks!
3. share an entree with someone.
4. ask the waiter to immediately put half in a doggie bag.
5. enjoy yourself! remember, this is a life long journey and we need to be able to go out to dinner!!
We can do it!

Hello everyone! First of all..WAY TO GO APHIL!! That is great! 30 lbs. gone FOREVER! And to tryin' hard that is some good advise about going out to eat. One of my problems is that I used to implement "cheat night" where I could eat anything I wanted for one meal per week. Problem was I was using it way more than needed and it would become an excuse to pig out. So it's best for me to just stick to a regular plan that I can live with.

Holly, I was thinking about weighing in on Fridays. That way if I do slip a little on the week-end (if I am going to have a slip up, it is usually on the week end when I am not at work and not in a regular schedule) I'll have the week to get my body back on track.

Well, I'm at work and getting ready to go home. Then hubby and I are going to the gym. Everyone have a great day!

Hello everyone!
Here is a little advice I have about eating out:
Look over the menu and see if they have a fresh fruit salad or grilled chicken salad and when you find a restaurant that has low fat/healthier choices available-talk your spouse or friends into going to that certain restaurant!
Here are some great finds I have found-to save all of you the work:
1.) Bob Evans fresh fruit plate-it is HUGE and low calorie/low point-full of fresh strawberries, watermelon, cantalaupe, and fresh pineapple-not canned. They also have a lowfat chicken stir fry-higher in calorie, but this is where the doggie bag comes in-1160 calories and 9 grams of fat for all of it-but eat half now and box the other half for tomorrow's lunch-and it is 580 calories and 4.5 grams of fat per serving.
2.) Dairy Queen's small strawberry Breeze-290 calories and 1 gram of fat. It is like a blizzard, but made with fat free frozen yogurt instead of ice cream. Their sugar free and fat free bars in various flavors also run between 50-60 calories each, or 1 WW point-and they have a grilled chicken sandwich for 310 calories and 10 grams of fat. Nice to know we can have a little ice cream now and then, huh?
3.) Fazoli's SMALL size spaghetti and marinara/tomato sauce-345 calories and 6 grams of fat-pair that with a breadstick for 130 calories and 4 grams of fat, or a cup of theri minestrone soup for 90 calories and 1 gram of fat-and you have a reasonable supper out for less than 500 calories.
4.) Red Lobster shrimp cocktail-at 80 calories and .5 grams of fat
5.) Steak and Shake single steakburger-at 280 calories and 7 grams of fat-one of the lowest fat "burgers" in popular restaurant chains-the key is to avoid the shakes and fries when you go in there...wink, wink.
6.)Subway, Subway, Subway...lots of choices here and the nutrition info is on the napkins or easily found on their websites.
7.)Wendy's Grilled chicken sandwich-290 calories and 7 grams of fat, or their small chili-at 210 calories and 7 grams of fat. They also have tons of great salads and carry fat free dressing-info can be found at their site.
8.) Applebee's full size low fat blackened chicken salad with honey mustard dressing-411 calories and 5 grams of fat-or their lowfat chicken quesadilla at 510 calories and 10 grams of fat.
When in doubt, order ala carte from restaurants like Denny's, Waffle and Pancake houses, etc. if you have your calories or points guide with you, you can figure up good choices for yourself-because bagels, plain toast and jam, an egg-things like this are pretty much the same calories or points no matter the brand. A small or child size orange juice is equal to about a 1 cup serving size-a large one is usually equal to about 16 oz.-or 2 cups-so you have to watch that.
Aphil

Way to go Amy, you deserve the 3FatChick happy dancers,,, :dance: :cb: :dancer: You are going to be at your goal in now time!! You are doing wonderful!!!

Welcome home Jacklyn,, nice to see you are back with us!! :wave:

Well girls, I am a nervous wreck about my WW meeting on Wednesday, but I know I have to go face the music. Ill just have to get over it and move on right???

I am also going to the doctor on Wednesday morning, as since I have been on my new Thyroid medicine, my heart just races and races. So going to see what he has to say about that. And also it will be my last visit to the big "loser" doctor. I do hope once I get to Calgary Ill be able to find one that I really trust and feel comfortable with.

Bruce will be home friday night WOOHOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!
And then the whole next week we will be packing up the house and then we fly back to Calgary on the 23rd. I am so excited.

Well going to run for now,, got some more packing up to do.

Have a a great night everyone and keep smilin :)

Nancy:df:

Thanks everyone for all the great advice concerning how to eat out without blowing the dieting. How wonderful it will be to actually get to take a break from cooking and spend a little time with DH and not LOOK like I'm watching every calorie. You don't want to be so obvious that everyone can tell you're counting calories. I have really missed getting a "treat" now and then too. Poor DH has had to go along on this ride as well since I really did not know how to deal with the selections in the restaurants. (I actually think he's lost a little weight too but I haven't said anything to him lest he think I thought he needed to.) :lol:

At home, I stock the cookie jars with "pinwheels" which I cannot stand. I know a lot of people like them but they remind me of "moon pies" and I just am not tempted to eat them. When DH gets home from work each evening, he has to get a cookie or some M & M's before heading for the shower. I keep the peanut M & M's on the counter and don't eat those either as I like the plain ones.

My son, who is a junior in H.S., has decided that eating in the lunchroom is just too "greasy" so I have had to go back to packing his lunch every evening for the next day. I do this after dinner so I'm not tempted to "sample" any chips and also try to buy items he likes (but I don't) so I won't eat those during the day.

If it is halfway decent tomorrow morning, I'm going to the park to walk instead of down to the "dungeon" and onto the treadmill. Maybe I'll watch the squirrels running around and pretend it's already spring.:hyper:

Ok.. I'm back.. in diet mode!
Today was my 6 week post partum appointment. I now have the go ahead to exercise. Dr suggested I start on the treadmill 10 minutes a day. I started counting calories today too. Didn't quite hit 1500 for the day! Not too bad :)

I was down 19 pounds but I'm back up 2 so my official start weight will be 174lbs. I have 21 more pregnancy pounds to lose and then I'd like to lose at least 20 more on top of that. I'm hoping to be able to accomplish this by my 29th birthday (I'll be 28 this month)...

It's good to be back!
Wish me luck!

Christine
174/174/130
first goal: 169

Good mornign everyone!
Nancy-it sounds so good to hear you back in a better mood again! I know you will feel much better and more motivated when you are with him full time again!
GeorgiaLady-I am so glad all of our restaurant advice helped. I always try to coerce my dh to take me to restaurants where I have found good choices, and then we can eat and I don't mention my watching what I eat-I just order and enjoy it. I also do what you do with the at home snacks for Jason and the kids...I buy ones that they like but I don't care for, so they areen't deprived and I am not tempted. Kudos for buying the peanut M&Ms-I like the plain ones too-I can have a whole bag of peanut ones there and I won't eat them!
Silence-welcome back! Your doctor is so right! Taking it slow with 10 minutes a day at first is the way to go...and as that sweet baby is sleeping longer and you are more rested, you can slowly ease it up bit by bit...if you have a good stroller I am sure you will have some nice walks with that baby when it warms up a bit. :)
Guess what? My dance teacher has asked me for help with her performing dance troupe's new costumes! She just emailed me, and wants me to bring pics of costumes I have made to class tonight! I am going to get the details tonight on what they want, when they want it...I am so excited. When I progress after a year or so, I am hoping to join her troupe, so this is a great way to get in their "good graces." :D it will also be neat to say-"look, I made those" while they are on stage! Yahoo!
Well, I best be going-I have to work on these abs and get the house straightened before my sister in law gets here later.
Aphil

Way to go Aphil....you'll be teaching a dance class one of these days!!:cb:

Aphil, CONGRATULATIONS!!!! Way to go!!! We are all so happy and pumped for you!!

hottie - I love your Grommit avatar! :D

Christine, Welcome Back!!! So good to have you back with us. I think you have set a very reasonable and do-able goal for your birthday next year!

Nancy, I'll be wishing you a good meeting tomorrow night. And HOORAY for you to be with your dear husband Friday!! On your last visit to the jerk-doctor, think of something crazy to do to him - like swipe one of his "diplomas" off the wall on your way out :devil:

Thanks, Jacklyn, I will also weight and post the weight on Fridays. So I will be good and not peek at the scale 'til then.

Hello tryin'hard, GeorgiaLady, and RavenToy!

The "words of wisdom" I'm going to take with me today from Aphil, is about stepping up the pace when things get too easy. I realize now that for a LONG time I was doing exercise routines, and not even breaking a sweat. Just being able to complete them comfortably, and I thought it was OK. On my cheesy "Buns of Steel" video Greg tells me, "gotta put the work into it, to see the results!" and if that means going "argh! ahhh!" while it feels like there is a FIRE in my muscles, then that is good!!

Have a great day!

Your friend, Holly

Holly,,, You are crack me up :lol: :lol: :lol: I can just see myself dashing out of the doctors office with his cracker jack box medical diploma tucked under my arm...see ya doc!!!!!!!!!!! :wave:

Thanks for the laugh this morning, I'm at work, so Ill check back later on.... have a great day everyone !!!

Nancy :df:

Nancy-Holly's idea gave me another joke you can play on that doctor...I have seen these "gag envelopes" in gift stores like Spencer's-and I am sure if you can't find any you could use the computer or a typwriter and make one yourself. The idea of the joke is to send a business sized letter to the doctor's office, but instead of your name/address being in the left upper corner, there is something else, like:
The Transvestite Rights Organization
P.O. Box 000
Make up a city, state and zip code
at the bottom have: Your welcome package enclosed!
You can make up any old thing you want, and there are many fields that can delve into-use your imagination. The idea is the emberassment when he recieves it, knowing that his mail carrier, secretary, nurses, etc. have seen that envelope and are wondering about it... :devil: I am SO terrible. :lol:
Aphil

Good morning everyone!
Class lat night was great-we started dancing with veils, and learned to do a "barrel roll" where two women get together holding 2 veils-(with each of you holding the opposite ends of the same 2 veils-so you make a rectangle with your bodies and the veils if you were looking from the ceiling.) Then you both sortof twirl in the same direction, flipping one veil up in the air, and the other down below, both of them creating a full circle-so the veils make a full circle around as you both twirl. It is hard to explain, but really gorgeous.
I hopped on the scale this morning-and I am down another pound to 180!!!!!
:strong:
It is so great to know that the next pound down will have me in the 170's-I am so motivated-I am really on a roll!!!
Holly-I did the Buns of Steel old Greg Smithey tape Monday for lower body strength training-and then did my regular abs and upper body routine-I was thinking of you the whole time! My inner thighs are STILL sore! I like to keep that old tape around for a change of pace now and then...that man just about kills me every time! :lol:
Something I wanted to talk about-I read and research a lot-is "superfoods" or extremely nutrient dense foods. I have been reading a lot about it lately-and it totally rings true. Americans are the most "overfed" but "starving" group of people there is. We have plenty to eat, ut we usually choose such poor foods, that our bodies are starving for the proper nutrients.
I have been trying to eat very nutrient dense foods whenever possible, and keeping my "treat" foods limited to about 100-150 of my calories a day-trying hard to make the rest of them as healthy as possible. Here are some very nutrient dense foods that we should all try to get in our diets regularly.
1.)Broccoli-contains tons of antioxidants that help prevent some cancers by helping the body detoxify carcenogenic (cancer causing) substances from the environment and diet.
2.)Tomatoes and Tomato sauces-contains lycopene, which helps the body fight disease and prevents cell damage.
3.)Nuts-a lot of dieters avoid nuts because they are high in calories for such a small servign size-but they are loaded with nutrients, so it would be a good idea to include them now and then-the fat that they contain are actually a good kind of fat, that helps to lower your bad cholesterol levels, and they help to prevent abnormal blood clotting-which can cause strokes. They are loaded with fiber, and have a ton of B vitamins like meats do-so it is a great source of this for those of us who do not eat much meat.
4.)Citrus fruit and juice-the pectin in it can help reduce bad cholesterol levels, and it has a ton of vitamin C. It also has antioxidants which help prevent the narrowing of arteries-in layman's terms-it helps prevent heart problems and stroke.
5.)Oats/oatmeal-the fiber can help reduce fat absorption into our bodies from food if eaten regularly, and helps prevent the constricting of our arteries, and can help lower your cholesterol.
6.)Eggs-one egg contains a high amount of the most complete and usable protein in our bodies. Don't throw away the yolks if you are eating a plain egg, and not using it in a recipe-most of the beneficial nutrients are there. Remember the days before all of the fancy protein supplements? Rocky's trainer knew what he was doing when he had him drinking those raw eggs! They contain tons of protein, properties that are essential for brain development and maintenance, and lutein, which helps age related eye damage.
7.)Legumes-(beans, peas) packed with fiber and loaded with folate, which prevents birth defects and heart disease, they also help stabilize high blood pressure, and help regulate blood sugar.
Eat up!
Aphil :D

Aphil--congrats on your loss! You will be in the 170's by the end of next week, I'm sure!
I really like the idea of nutrient-dense foods. I am also a believer in if you're going to have something with a little fat in, choose the best. For example, when I put cheese on my pasta, it's the good stuff, because you actually use less.
Your discussion of nuts prompts me to share this recipe with you. It's a nice change from our regular salads:
Mixed greens (I like the arugula mix)
1 tablespoon of bleu cheese
dried cranberries
toasted walnuts (I put them in a nonstick pan and cook them until they smell soooo good!)
Ken's lite raspberry-walnut viniagrette
We really like this in my house!
Hope you all have a great day!

That recipe sounds really good! My mom loves those types of salad dressings.
I am like you-if I am going to splurge and have a treat-it isn't going to just be whatever is there. I won't eat Palmer brand chocolate for anything in the world-the less expensive brand usually around in the big bags of candy at Easter, Halloween, etc. If I am going to have it, it has to be plain Hershey milk or special dark, or Dove, or from the nearby gourmet shop. I don't even eat Russell Stover or Whitmans samplers...only the samplers from the gourmet place. I am the same way with about any splurge. :D
Well-I took my measurements for the month-and all of the number went down this time! (Usually on month it will be more in my waist, and the next my hips and thighs, etc.)
Here is the results of the work the last 8 months-from July at my highest weight, until now.
total lost: -9/16" of of each upper arm, -2 1/2" off my bust, -4 1/2" off my waist, -2 1/4" off my hips, -1 1/2" off each upper thigh
Aphil

Aphil, one thing I regret is that I didn't take my measurements. You're a smart woman to do so! One thing I did was save my biggest pair of jeans. I can take them off and put them on without undoing the button or zipper!!
Have a great day!

Maybe we should all take our biggest pairs of jeans, and recycle them into windsocks, throw them up on flagpoles, or use them as sails for boats...hee hee hee
Aphil

I want to burn mine. :flame: :lol:

That could be a new source of entertainment...see who can do the most creative or funny thing with their old fat clothes...

Hello everyone! Congrats to all of the losers out there!

I have to admit that my eating has not been all that great but I have been exercising religiously. I'm coming up on that time of the month and I have been craving some major chocolate!! Unfortunately I have been giving in a bit. Another nice thing about that TOM is that bloated feeling. I woke up this morning feeling like I could probably hear the water in my gut swooshing around if I moved fast enough. Right now, I am sitting in my office and I can literally feel my thighs expanding with water! Great being a woman.

Nevertheless, I will go to the gym this afternoon. Water-gut, water-thighs.....and slosh through my work out. Are ya getting the visual??

Enough complaining for me...everyone have a great day. Drink an extra glass of H2O for me;)

I feel your pain, Jacklyn - TOM is coming up fast for me, too. My rings are feeling tight and I just feel ... like a zeppelin. Yep, that's it.

I most resemble "Jigglypuff", the round pink pokemon, during my TOM.

hey everyone,,, since we are describing what we feel like during TOM,, I think I resemble Jabba the Hut from the star war movies :lol:

Ok here is the scoop,, had my doctors appt today and now he is having me alternate my dosage of meds, high one day low the next. He said that maybe it was too much of jump all at once.
I still dont like him :p

Went to my WW meeting and faced the music, and I gained 2 pounds, that makes four pounds that I have gained since my thyroid went all wacky on me again, and also its is approaching that TOM. I am hoping to stay in control and lose something this next week.

Amy~~ way to go on losing another pound, you are on a roll !!!!

ok , only 2 more days of work for me. Bruce should be home Friday providing the weather does not get any worse then it is right now. We have had so much snow that I paid a kid 30.00 to shovel, as my arm is just now getting better and I did not want to chance reinjuring it. I might just have to pay another 30.00 tomorrow :eek: Its suppose to be springtime !!!!!!!!
Having a moving/garage sale on Sunday and then packing , packing and packing. Hopefully we can get it all done, seems so overwhelming to me right now.

Ok its bedtime,, I'll see you all tomorrow, have a great day girls and keep smiling :)

Nancy :df:
highest weight 304/ current weight 184/ goal weight 150???