Support Groups - 21-Day Challenge -- post-crash, everyone jump back on!!

OK, everyone, it seems we've lost our thread so I'm starting up a new one. I don't have the template for the beginning and for now I just want to make this short as I have to run.

This is a challenge where you decide on something you want to do to help change your current habits, or to start a new habit. You do the SAME THING for 21 days straight to successfully complete the challenge. If you slip up, just start counting over again. We are all on different days so when you check in just say what day you're on and we'll give you a cheer!! :cp:

The great thing about this challenge is that if you can keep something going for 21 days straight you have a great shot at changing your behavior.

Anything is OK, a lot of people are making sure they get a certain amount of water each day. I'm doing no sugar at all. Others have done situps every day. One of us is currently doing prayer every day. Anything that you want to do is OK!! So please jump on it and join us. :wave:

We're a groovin' bunch!! :cb:

:dancer: :dancer:

HOORAY! DAY 3 DONE!

Hello hello...

Still drinking my water!! Day...ummm...what day am I on? I'm thinking it's day 9? Or 10? I'll say 9 to be on the safe side.

Everything is going pretty good. Been doing more workouts at home. School is back in session and I'm ready to lose this fat that I've accumalated over the winter break!!

Hope to see more come back!! I wish I could remember everyones names.......(sorry) but please come back and lets get this challenge rolling again!

Marti

Good to see you here, michi and MNJ.
I was "forced" to eat sugar yesterday, really. I couldn't turn down food I was given without being rude so I ate it.
Then later I decided that, well, to be honest, that would count as a transgression so I decided to have some more, not that much, but enough to say I fell off the wagon.
So, I'm between challenges. Haven't had any today but just may and then start up again.
Funny/interesting thing is that I could have gorged myself today, you know, being "between" challenges and everything and I didn't!! I really thought, what do I want to do that for. It's not that wonderful, the sweet stuff and I feel bad afterward. Yo, now that IS progress. Are we talking lifestyle change or what!?!?!

I'm staying right here though. By the way, even though I've subscribed to the thread I don't get email notices though there were replies. Hmm. What's up I wonder?

Whoops. I see the reason we can't get email notification is because of the crash. I read the notice and that's the explanation. In case anyone else was wondering. . .

There you are!

Been trying to fin you all! I'm on day 10 I think...or that's what I've decided I'm on! Kinda lost track after the crash but its a conservative estimate.

Glad to be back

Hi scuzin, glad you could find us! :flow1: Congrats on Day 10. :bravo: I haven't started up yet. Will soon though. Everyone else, how's it going? :sunny:

Hi everyone,
Is it ok if I jump on the band wagon? This is my day 3 of being in control again, and it feels so good. I'm so glad the holiday-goodie eating season is over. Now I can get serious about eating right, drinking my water and exercising. You guys are very inspiring and motivating. Great thread!!
Dena

Welcome Dena :)

I'm on day 11, Just have to finnish today and I'm over the hump!

Take your time Red, best to start when you have something good in mind and know you can commit to it.

I forgot to post yesterday...

Water going in....and right back out......:D

Starting to exercise more too. This is going to be the a GREAT year!! (positive thoughts)

Marti

Good for everyone. I don't have trouble remembering when I started, because it was Jan. 1. 12 more days . . .

Day 5 and Day 6 are done! Yaaaay! I've been losing soooo much weight! I love it! I'm down to 204 now. If anyone wants to see my stats, go to www.moonprism.com/table

Hope everyone's doing well!

Day 7 is done! One week! I also walked a mile on the treadmill and rode a mile on my exercise bike. Yay fitness! I'm losing weight soooo fast. I love this diet. All the chest pains are gone, my acid reflux hasn't been acting up, and I just feel better about myself. It's great!

Day 5 of eating right, exercising and drinking my water. I feel so much better. It's good to be in control. Everyone's doing a fantastic job!!
Dena :)

Good job on day 5, Dena! Exercise is so much fun.

Day 8 is done! I woke up first thing and did my exercise. I've also lost another pound. I weigh 203 now! I must go change my signature!

Good going, Dena, Michi, Catlover, Scuzin, MNJ. :cp: I'm pretty out of it. Wake up every morning with a sore throat, aches. :( They go away during the day. Oh well, at least I know now it's not just me feeling lazy and down. I guess I have been sick or coming down with something. I'm rooting for you all. Please keep going and I'll be back with you soon. :)

Hi guys!

I couldn't log on the last few days. I don't know what happened, but I couldn't get on. Anyway, I had to reregister and thus the slight name change, but it's still me, Dena.

I want to thank Scuzin, Mich and Redballoon for the warm welcome and kudos. Thanks, guys.

Today is day #7 of eating right, exercising and drinking water. Yaaaahoooo!

Mich, congrats on your weight loss. Scuzin, wow, what number are you on now? (Lookin' good.) Redballoon, I hope you feel better real soon. Take care.

Good luck, everyone!
Dena

Hello gals--

Sorry I haven't been around much....been feeling emotional and I even threw myself a pity party! :lol: But I think I'm feeling better now. Despite the time away.. I'm still getting my water in with no problem. I just really need the water.

I'm on day 15! Who would've thought I could actually make it that far after all the set backs during the holidays?? Well me of coarse,,, I just had to put my mind to it!

Welcome to Dena and Catlover. I hope all is well with the two of you.
Hello to Mallory, Susan and Red! Hope you start feeling better Red. And WTG Mallory on your success in losing the weight. Is doing Atkins better this time around??

Ok... I will try to keep up with the post.

Take Care
Marti

Hello all!

I know I've been gone for a while...I confess I went off my water challenge on the 10th (it was the whole birthday thing) and haven't been up to parr since. Hmpf. I was thinking I would choose a different challenge since I "always" get my water done, with only 1 day here and there off...but since its now been a few days I might use it again. But I'm also thinking of some other things I could do.

Great Job all! Hope you feel better Red

Scuzin, let's both get back on together. As soon as I said I was doing great for a week, I blew it. So, this is day one for me. I decided to start journaling again, so that should keep me in line. At least I continued to exercise and drink my water. I guess 2 out of 3 ain't bad. Here we go again....
Dena

Day 16 in the bag!! Whoo Hoo...almost got my 21 days in. :cool:

Dena and Susan...you'll both do just fine. How many times was it that I had to start over?? Too many to count :o But I have faith in everyone here!!

So good luck to a brand new start!!

Marti

Heh, people, thanks for all the get-well wishes. I'm feeling much, much better, though pretty much exhausted because I have to go, go, go. What all can be packed into a day is pretty amazing. Then again, it's pretty amazing how I can just waste away a "free" day. Went to the gym the other day and that helped me feel better. The busier I get the more I HAVE to exercise or I feel awful. Well, I've got to run again so I just wanted to say hello and thanks!

MNJ, :bravo: to you for getting through to Day 16. Yes, I remember how you kept starting over and over just a a couple days in to a new challenge. But you're sticking with it now, aren't you? Great going! It's consistency that matters not how many times you start over. Even in your difficult times you're an inspiration to others, MNJ!

Den, Scuzin, like I said, just get back on the horse. Just more chance to keep it going this time around. Good luck and I'll be joining you all soon again.

michi, catlover, how are you doing out there?! :sunny: Hope all's cool! :yes:

Day No. 1 under my belt. I exercised, drank my water and journaled. Now on to Day No. 2. Yay!! :D

MNJ, congrats on your success! Very inspiring. Keep up the great work!

Redballoon, I'm like you... I feel so much better when I go to the gym. Not only does it make me feel better physically, I feel like I accomplished something, too. Anyway, I'm glad you are feeling better.

Happy Thursday, everyone! Let's keep it going.
Dena

I'm with you Den! Just a day behind...so this is #1 for me.

I have a Yoga class now. WOW are my legs sore! But its great to have an actual class...that way I HAVE to go.

Way to go Dena!! Way to go Scuzin!! Keep it up! :cp: :cp:

Day 17!!

Getting close. Going to have to think of what I need to do next. It has to be different!!

I've been doing so well with water, and I started making better choices on food AND.....believe it or not I'm slowly getting back into the working out scene. The holidays just tried to put me in a permanent stand still.. Just didn't work. I WILL have a good year!! :D

Looking good everyone!!!! Yoga classes... I should do that next term. IF I can squeeze in the time!! (me and my excuses!!)

Take Care
Marti

Hi everyone! I'm Carolyn, and this 21 day challenge seems right up my alley. I'm leaving for a different country (studying abroad) in 21 days, and I would like to start a new lifestlye!

My goal: No sugar. Which is going to be the death of me since I have a huge sweet tooth. :dizzy: It may be setting myself up for failure, but I want myself to experiment with the plethra of foods out there!

I love all this support, keep up the good work everybody. Y'all are very encouraging!

Allright MNJ, 17 and moving forward! Just a few more to go.
Good for you! :cp: Any ideas on the next challenge?

Carolyn, welcome! :cb: Great challenge! As you may or may not know, no sugar has been my challenge many a time. I'm currently in between challenges but I'm starting back today and we'll be doing it together. Great stuff! Good luck. It's tough but you'll feel SO much better and just look forward to the sugar in three weeks.

OK, all, like I said, I'm jumping back on the wagon. NO SUGAR!! :dancer: Day 1 is NOW, Saturday, Jan. 17!! Counting down to February. :sunny:

Carolyn, welcome! :cb: Great challenge! As you may or may not know, no sugar has been my challenge many a time. I'm currently in between challenges but I'm starting back today and we'll be doing it together. Great stuff! Good luck. It's tough but you'll feel SO much better and just look forward to the sugar in three weeks.

OK, all, like I said, I'm jumping back on the wagon. NO SUGAR!! :dancer: Day 1 is NOW, Saturday, Jan. 17!! Counting down to February. :sunny:


Thanks! :D I'm glad that I have someone to complete my challenge with. I officially finished day one successfully, but WOW was it hard!!! I have had cravings like no other lately , so I've boughten lots of sugar free substitutes until I can get a hold of myself. Haha.

Good luck to everyone, and I hope your challenges are going well!

Carolyn

:bravo: for you Carolyn, on a successful Day 1. :strong: The first days are REALLY hard when you're going off sugar. You may have serious withdrawal symptoms as well and I'm very serious about this. Some people are laid up for a couple days as their body adjusts. :(

As far as making it easier for you and your sweet tooth I'd stay away from the sugar substitutes as much as possible. It just keeps your taste buds whacked out. Once you're away from the sugar you'll discover how sweet many things are naturally. When I was first doing this I would treat myself to really sweet fruit, grapes, pineapple, watermelon whenever I wanted that sweet taste. :love: I also allowed myself a little sugarless gum but only a little.

Well, you'll have to try whatever works for you but those are just suggestions. I was off sugar totally for a year and then have done about 4 challenges after that.

Good luck. :cheer:
By the way, where will you be studying? :dance:

Wow... 18 a success and you know something?? I just now realized that on the 21st. day.. will be my 33rd. birthday. What kind of timing is that?

Welcome Carolyn!! Glad to see more jumping aboard!!

I must tuck my little one into bed...

night all.

Marti

Way to go MNJ!! :flow1: And how cool is your birthday on the final day of your challenge! The beginning of a new chapter in the life of a very successful Marti.
Hurrah! :flow2:

Day 19!! Got 2 liters of water and plus some! ****sigh**** feeling good about it all.

Has anyone heard from Lisa?? I hope she's doing ok. I think I'll PM her and check.

Ok....

yap more tomorrow

Marti

Good for you Marti!

I'm on Day 2 of my challenge. Yesterday was a success.

No, I haven't heard from Lisa. I will write too! :wave:

Day 20.....one more day.

I've got in my 2 liters and plus some. Getting all excited!!

Boy,,, that has been the looonnngest 21 days! :D

Hope everyone else is doing good!!

Marti

Way to go MNJ! You're almost there. :cp: :dance:

I'm on Day 3 here. Made it through Day 2 OK though it was tough. Way too many beers last night :cheers: :stars: though would have cancelled out all the work I did in the gym and walking. :tread: Oh well. Maybe no alcohol will be a challenge one of these days! :o

Carolyn, how are you doing with your no sugar challenge? Others, hope to hear from you soon! :comp:

:flow1: :flow2: :flow1: :flow2: Day 21!!! :flow1: :flow2::flow1: :flow2:

I did it!! YeeHaw!!! I'm doing the happy dance!!!!
Keep up the good work girls!!

Marti

:bravo: Hip, hip hooray for M.N.J.!!! :cheer: :cheer:

She's done it! :cp: :cp:All the way through!! :encore: :encore:

:dance: You're an inspiration to us all, Marti!! Congratulations!!:dance:

CONGRATULATIONS TO YOU, M.N.J.!!! AND "HAPPY BIRTHDAY" TO YOU, TOO!

REDBALLOON, you're doing a great job! I like the idea of giving up sugar. That will be next for me.

But in the meantime, I'm on day #2 of being totally good eating-wise. And I'm on day #13 as far as exercising and drinking my water. Eventually I will make all three things happen together. :lol:

Keep up the great work, everyone!!
Dena

HAPPY BIRTHDAY MNJ!!!!! AND A BIG, BIG, BIG CONGRATS ON DAY 21!!!!!!! That's marvelous. I know how much trouble you had getting started. I myself have been doing well the past few days. Although water seems to be the only thing I'm getting right. I think my next challenge will definatly have to do with food.

HI everyone! Sorry I haven't been on here the last couple days! :(

Red Balloon-I'll be studying over in Australia. Can't wait!!! And yes, I think I do go through withdrawls. It's quite difficult! NO alcohol would be a challenge. But nothing like sugar (for me, that is). ;)

Hi Marti! Congrats on the good job! You are very inspiring! And HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Hi Dena! You keep up the good work too! :D

Hi Scuzin!

Okay, as for me, I must confess. Day 2 I ate a white flour pasty. But I didn't feel too guilty since I only get to eat them like once a year. Then Day 3 I also ate sugar. BAD CAROLYN!! ;) But, yesterday I started over. No biggie. So know I'm on Day 2 again, haha.

I will catch ya all later!!

CArolyn

Just checking in....

Day 4 eating healthy, Day 15 drinking my water and exercising. It's starting to come together. :) I just came back from my walk this morning and feeling good. I plan to go to the gym this afternoon.

Let's keep at it. And in case I don't time to check in tomorrow, Have a great weekend, everybody!! :wave:
Dena

Hi, everyone, where's all the action on this thread gone to? I keep thinking something's wrong with the email notification, there are so few notices of posts. Oh well, it's hard revving up into the new year. As long as you're all out there still hanging on. I haven't been very talkative myself. :rolleyes:

Well, it's the start of Day 7 for me. No sugar and I feel great about it. I do want it badly sometimes but I just put it out of mind, drop the bag containing it, run from the smells wafting from the bakery. God, it's all around, isn't it? But I'm going to get to Day 21 again this time, no ifs, ands, or buts about it!! :mad:

Dena, hello! Good for you for eating healthy! And has it really been so long on your water challenge? A big :bravo: to you there too! Walking and going to the gym!? You're really doing it, aren't you? Way to go!! :dancer:

Carolyn, try, try again. If you fall off the wagon, just jump back on! Good for you! No sugar is a very hard thing but you'll keep getting better at it. May I suggest some of the anti-sugar books. Reading them will really give you a motivational boost to get off the stuff. Well, good luck! I'm rooting for you. :cb:

Scuzin, where are you? How's it going and are you back on a challenge? Let us all know! We miss you. :yes:

M.N.J., when are you coming back? How long do you think your break will be? We need you here too for all your inspiration and kind words! Come back soon! :wave:

Michi, Catlover have we lost you? Please COME BACK!!! :(

Red---I haven't been sure what I wanted to do...but then I realized that I've been doing pilates everyday so far since my birthday... so I want to keep that one going.

This will be my 4th day!! Never tried it before, and I got a pilates set for my birthday and I love it. I can feel the muscles working! :strong:

I hope everyone is doing great. Dena, Carolyn, Susan, Red, ....thank you all for the Birthday wishes!! Even though I feel old.....tuning up my body will bring the young out of me!! :D

Mallory....come on back and let us know how you're doing. I want to know how the Atkins is working for you.

Off to bed I go ladies.....

Marti

MNJ, good to see you back! Ooh, that's a toughie, pilates every day for 21 straight! :twirly: You go! Good luck! :hyper: Thanks for coming back. :dance:
I'm calling Day 7 a success! Yes! :crazy: Only 14 more days to go. I can do it. :strong:

Day 5! Already got my pilates done. Enjoying it. I'm hoping I won't tire of it before the 21 days!!! So far so good.

Where is everyone? How are you all doing? Keep us posted!!

Marti

Marti, How do you do it? I could never get in to Pilates. What tape do you have (if you have a tape)?

It's a very simple tape. I believe it's only 15 mins. showing you how to use the resistance bands (which I love using) and it came with the stuff. (the mat and bands) I believe it's call "Pilates, anytime anywhere" Very very simple...which is why I sometimes have done it twice a day or I try to use the high restraint band. That is probably why I like it so much. :D

Another thing is, I can really feel my muscles being worked and that is something I miss. I used to work out everyday after work (12hr shift) just to help me unwind from the day.

I haven't tried pilates w/o the bands yet....I'm looking to buy a tape that doesn't use them, and another more challenging tape that does. I'm just very amped right now to get my body kickstarted into trimming up and losing weight. Oh...and another thing that REALLY helped me was the visual aid I saw on the exercise thread. It showed a photo of 5lbs of "fat vs. muscle" and man...... I'm not sure why....but it got me into gear to get moving! Very motivating. If I can find it I will post the link.

Wow...was that more than you expected?? :D If you have any suggestions on tapes...feel free to share!

Marti

Here is that link: http://3fatchicks.com/forum/attachment.php?attachmentid=16512

OH, God, Marti, is that ever gross!!! :eek: But thanks for the added motivation. Now, I knew there was a great reason to keep working out with weights!!

Exactly! And just imagine whats on your body!! Isn't that motivation enough? That visual has just stuck with me.

Yes!! OH, yes, I was editing my last message when you sent yours. Didn't want to sound unappreciative!

You know, another thing, when you think of what fat looks like on the inside (not to mention the outside) it really does make me want to get it out of my body. I'm making my goal 55 kgs by June 1! And I'm going to make a signature to plot my progress! Yeah!!

Oh you didn't sound unappreciative. I just thought I would pop in my thoughts.

Ok.. I have NO idea what 55kgs amounts to in pounds...but I know you can do it!

I am DETERMINED to do this, this year!! This will be my time! (ok... it was my time a year before,,, I just let it slip)

So....this will be my time to get it off and KEEP it off!! :D

Ok... I need to get off this thing and get some homework finished. That way I have the whole weekend to not worry about it!!

Marti

****shudder**** all that fat on my bones!!*****shudder*****

Sorry about the lack of conversion. Let's see . . . 55 kgs is just over 121 lbs. I'm around 70 kgs now, which is just over 154 lbs so. . . I need to get rid of 33 lbs of that ugly stuff. Oh, so gross!!

Day 7 here.

Did my pilates this morning and I plan on trying out this new tape I bought either tonight or tomorrow night. It's 70 mins. long. I wanted to find a tape that wasn't too short. Also, one that is for beginners that way when only 30 mins. pass by I'm not dying in pain! :lol:

How is everyone? Where is everyone?

Susan, Carolyn, Dena, Mallory? Hope you're still with us!!

Ok.. Off to get the day going!

Marti

:bravo:　MNJ on your seventh day!! A 70-min. tape! Wow, that sounds pretty long to me. Good luck. I guess you could always break it up into segments if you found it to be long or couldn't find the time.

I'm on . . . let's see. . Day10 here! Yeah! Into the double digits. :cp:
Looks like it's just you and me, Marti. Sure wish we'd get some others here but maybe they're just out having fun!

Come back, everyone!!!

Hi Everyone!
Here I am. I'm proud to say I was good over the weekend. I even went out to dinner! So this is day #8 as far as eating right and day #19 regarding drinking my water and exercising. (I'm sipping 2 glasses while at the computer. :) ) I'm going for a walk right after I send this message and plan on going to the gym this afternoon. I'm determined to make it this time.

M.N.J., congratulations on your pilates routine. Wow, I'm super impressed. That gives me motivation to try something new. You go, girl!

Red Balloon, Congratulations on day #10 of not eating sugar! That is so amazing and inspiring. Who invented that silly stuff anyway?

This is a great thread!! Keep up the great work, everyone!
Dena

:wave: Hello everyone :wave:

Dena--Glad to see you post! I was starting to wonder if Red and I were the only ones trekking the 21 days! Congrats on day 8 and 19. Boy..that would just confuse the heck outta me!! But you look like you're doing great!

Red--I tried out the tape. And it's in sections so I didn't do the entire 70mins. I want to test it out in sections before I commit to the entire thing in one workout session. But I WILL be doing it!

James helped me set up my Total Gym 1000, and I started doing some pilate moves on it! WoW!!! Let me tell you, you get more of a workout when the seat is at an incline!! But it was fun! I enjoy working out....so why haven't I been doing it more!!??!! Something I will have to ponder.......
I really like working out at the gym, but to save some money this year, we have cancelled our membership. It was on hold.....But hey...I'm doing pretty good here at home. Saving money and getting into shape! :D

Everyone keep up the good work and others who we haven't heard from lately....come on back!!

Day 8 a success.....only 13 more to go!!!

Marti

Allright, Dena, welcome back!! Glad to hear you're still going strong!! :strong: Yowza!! :dancer:

MNJ, :bravo: to you as well. Your pilates work is very inspiring. I'm going to get down and do some stretches, thanks to YOU!! :yes:

Ok, people, will be back! Keep it up! :cb:

Hello, Hello!

Yesterday I went for my walk and later to the gym as promised. I plan to do the same today. So now it's day #20 regarding the water and exercise and day #9 regarding eating right.

Then this morning I got on the scale and no weightloss! I know muscle weighs more than fat, but it gets discouraging anyway. Got to stay off of that scale. I have to concentrate on my progress of getting healthy.

I'm so inspired by both of you, Red Balloon and MNJ. Let's keep up the great work.
Dena

Good for you Dena. :cp: Don't let the scale discourage you. I know it does me too but being healthy IS the most important thing. You can always work on minor points such as weight loss later. It's really the quality of the food and exercise that is the hard part. So you're on track. Stay there!

Best of luck!! :cheer:

Thanks so much for your encouragement, Red Balloon. I really was discouraged about no loss today. Although I went for a walk this morning and just came home from the gym, I was about to overeat until I saw your message. Thank you. It's funny how that scale can almost ruin a perfectly good week. Thanks so much for caring.
Dena

Thank YOU, Dena. I'm glad I could be of some help. I do the same thing, throw up my hands in dismay and anger at the first sign of opposition. Don't! :no: Don't sabotage your efforts because of the reading on a scale!

The scale is a poor judge, a lopsided evaluator of your efforts. It doesn't register anything but weight, mass, with no care for what that mass looks like, what it contains, nothing, absolutely nothing but mass. The scale is blind. You're not. So you can be a much better judge of your efforts AND you can be more compassionate about them as well. :yes:

There are so many things/people out there that couldn't care less about your efforts, the things that are difficult for you individually. So YOU have to care. :grouphug: Give yourself major pats on the back for what you're doing, eating healtily, exercising. No scale measures that. Keep it up, Dena!! :dancer:

Hello ladies--

Dena--I'm the same way with the scale, but I TRY to not let it get to me. You are doing so much to make things better in your life, and that is what counts the most. Just think...you're getting in more water, your eating right, and your exercising!! Your body is loving you! And now you have to love your body. No matter what size you are,,, loving your body will bring great benefits. It may be slow at first to see results on the scale...but give it time... you WILL see a difference. Keep the positive attitude. Sometimes I think scales were put here to discourage us...to keep us from reaching the goal we want to meet. So... I put the scale out of eye sight and continue to do what I know is right for me. And after awhile, you'll see the changes without the scale...looser clothes, a bounce to your step, more energy...THEN, that's when you bring the scale back out. Or better yet...get the measuring tape out. Amazing how the scale won't budge, but the measuring tape will give you the inches you've lost.

Keep up the good work and don't feel discouraged. We are here for you through it all so keep posting and keep reaching for that goal. Because I know that each one of us WILL reach it!! I have faith!

As for me today...I haven't done my pilates yet...but I will, and I will post later to let you know that day 9 has been a success. I can't believe how long it took for me to get going on the water, and how easy it is for me to do exercises. Go figure!

Be back later girls......

Marti

Heading to bed, but I said I would be back. Day 9 finished!! WooHoo!!

Dear Red Balloon and MNJ,
Thanks so much for your encouraging, motivating and inspiring words. What wonderful insight. You gals are the best!!

I want to let you know I made it to Day #21 on my exercise and water. And now I'm on Day #10 of eating healthy.

I had an emotional day yesterday and I think that contributed to my wanting to blow it. I think the scale was the last straw. Taking a closer look, I realize I did the bills and had a lengthy phone call with with an insurance problem dating back to the year 2000 (something they processed wrong.) Anyway, I've come to realize that when I get super stressed, I tend to want food. (At least I'm finally getting what's going on.)

I want to thank you gals for helping me through a rough time. When I blow it, it's only a temporary fix and then I feel totally upset with myself. I beat myself up pretty badly. This is a habit I would LOVE to stop.

MNJ, I hadn't thought of the idea of actually loving my body. I am trying to make it healthier, so why not nurture it in the meantime? What a concept!

Red Balloon, You are right... I HAVE TO CARE about my efforts in eating right, exercising and drinking water for my health. Kudos to me. (That's a first.)

I hope you both have a great day!!!!

Thanks again for your inspiring words.
Dena

Oh ladies.....

I have to put a stall on my pilates. I don't want to say that I'm going to start over from the beginning because I WANT to do them... I'm just not too sure I should today. My MWF schedule at school consist of three classes.... and so I have many books to drag around.....anyway..to make a long story short... I swung my bag around after one of my classes and pulled a muscle in my back. Not much comfort right now.

So...as much as I would love to jump into doing my pilates.. I think I'm going to need to take the night off. Miserable. The stretching may help it some, but right now... I just need to relax. I will attempt to do them tomorrow night.

Dena....Congratulations to day 21 on the exercise and water!! How wonderful! Feels pretty good doesn't it? I'm very proud of you. And you're doing very good on the eating too. I'm so glad that you were able to over ride the feeling of stress and sticking with your healthy eating rather than giving in. Good for you. I know you can do it. Anytime you need to talk...we are here for you. And to let you know... I also post with the Jaded Ladies Forum so if you ever want to pop in and chat...feel free.

That goes for anyone here!

Red... how are you doing? Sugar being good and staying out of your way?? I hope so! You're very inspiring... I don't know if I could give up sugar completely. But I guess I've never really tried...well..I did when I tried atkins...and that was difficult. Still have area's I need to learn self control.

Ok ladies.. I have some homework to do. I am so worn and tired today....

You all take care.
Marti

:sunny: :sunny: CONGRATULATIONS DENA!!! :cp: :cp: :cp: :bravo: to you for getting through your challenge, all 21 days of it!! :cheers: :encore:

Ditto Marti. I'm proud of you too, Dena! :smug: I hope you're feeling real good about yourself. :love: Great kudos to you!!

:cheer: And good luck on the rest of your challenge. :cheer:

Happy Thursday, Everyone!!

And thank you, thank you, thank you! Yes, I am feeling pretty good about myself today. I'm on day #11 of eating healthy, and guess what, I feel lighter, too. The exercise actually makes me feel better, more alive. So I'm looking forward to my walk and then going to the gym.

MNJ, take care of yourself. Sorry you pulled a muscle in your back. You'll be doing pilates soon. Don't worry about that. In the meantime, pamper yourself. Drink some hot tea while hitting those books. I know how stressful studies can be, so maybe stretching a little here and there will help relax those muscles, too. What classes are you taking? In any event, good luck with your back and your courses.

Red, I want to congratulate you for your continued success without sugar. I've been trying to do the same these last few days. I did have a muffin for lunch yesterday as a reward, but that's the only real treat I've had with sugar these last few days. You're inspiring me to kick that sugar habit. Keep up the great work!! Take care.
Dena

Hello there all. Thank you for your words of praise but I'm afraid I'm not totally deserving of them! :( I had a sugar slip the other day and have had to start over. I didn't want to say anything right away because I was so annoyed with having to say "it's Day 1 again." So I wanted till I was into the new challenge a bit. So, now, it's the start of Day 3 for me again. :^:

I didn't want to eat the sugar at all but I had gone to an acquaintance's home for advice on a work project and I'd brought the obligatory gift, which were (I bought them) expensive handmade chocolate truffles. Stupid me, I should have known I'd be offered them. I thought I could simply turn them down but this time it was too tough. They sat there in the box and over and over again I was offered them so I really couldn't turn them down. :?: So I had some. I felt awful and then not. They were incredibly delicious. :T So that's that. Then, since I'd blown it I had more sugar later.

But, I decided to get right back on the wagon the next day instead of making a weeklong pigout or something. :s:

One thing I learned from this, is, buy something I CAN eat when bringing gifts. Perhaps somewhere deep (not so deep) down I knew I'd be offered them and I knew I'd probably accept so I consider myself a full accomplice in my slipup. :rolleyes:


OK, Marti. How are you? I hope your back is better. Are you able to continue with your pilates now? Yes, I wouldn't consider that a slip. ;) You were forced not to work out. It'd be stupid to risk injuring yourself further just for the sake of not having to start over with the challenge. Perhaps you could do some movements that don't affect the back at all though, legs perhaps, if there is such an exercise. :idea:

Dena, I'm glad I've been an inspiration to you. If a muffin is all you've had in the past few days that's fantastic! :cb: And good for you for continuing to eat healthily and exercise. Yes, you see, you're starting to reap some of the benefits that comes from being good to yourself, really good, the kind of benefits that don't show up on the scale. Keep it up!! :dancer:

Morning ladies--

Well last night I tried to do some pilates, but half way through the pain in my back spread to my neck and I ended up with a **** of a headache!!

The pilates itself wasn't what caused it, but it sure didn't help. But since I was "half" way through... I guess you could say that it counts as day 10?!

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)


Anyway... I woke up today with no pain at all, so tonight should be good. I will check in later.

Marti

I"m baaaaaaaaaack
Hello all, I know I've been MIA for a good week now, but I'm ready to start again! Here we go with day 1 of the water challenege!

Big Congrats for finnishing those challenges!

Hi everyone! Sorry I have been gone for so long. I've been visiting friends all over the state of MN lately. :)

First of all,

Dena-What everyone says about the scale is right. I got weighed when I donated plasma the other day, and there was no loss in weight. But yet I felt so good, and so did my pants. ;) That was when I reminded myself, fuggetabout the scale and just go your feelings!

Red-Don't worry! I've fell off the cycle with sugar lots of times already. :devil: BAD! However, there are some times when you have to question if you deserve to eat that little piece of chocolate!

My update: My updated 21 day challenge consisted more of sticking to my diet and making it become part of a better lifestyle. And writing down my feelings. Since I was visiting people, I splurged. But yet, I didn't feel guilty about it after the fact. I still kept on my workout sched. However, I am ready to get back onto my challenge and start er over! I have already come a long with my eating, and when I feel depressed and down, I remind myself of that fact.

I realized today: If at first you don't succeed, just dust yourself off and try again! ;)

And hello to everyone and good luck! I already feel better catching up with y'all!

Hi there people. Just reporting in to say I'm wrapping up a successful Day 5 of my new challenge after having fallen off the wagon last Tuesday. It's been hard (and the truffles are still in the refrigerator after my friend had me take them home!) but I'm doing it again. Yeah! :cb:

M.N.J., glad to hear you're feeling better. You'd better stop swinging your books around like that. Must have been a pretty wild class! :lol:
Scuzin, good to see you back with us again. :wave: Keep us posted on how you're doing, OK? :cheer:

CareOlen, good to have you back as well. I had wondered where you went. :shrug: Yes, I hear you on the just get back up and try again. That's what I'm doing and that's why I didn't make a weeklong pigout about it. I don't think I exactly "deserve" any chocolate but I'm not going to beat myself up about it. ;) It was good and I certainly am doing better by having stayed off it for over 10 days prior to that indulgence and now again for 5 days after so things are fine. :judge: And I DO look forward to my next indulgence and I'd like it to be after another clear 21-day round! :yes:

I think you've got a great attitude. Writing down the emotions you're having as you eat is a great awareness exercise and great training. I quit smoking years ago by asking myself all the questions I'd give as excuses for smoking. The "I'm bored" I turned into, "Is smoking this cigarette really so exciting?" and things like that and I was able to finally quit. :smoking: It was a pride thing I think that finally made me quit. :smug: With eating too, it's similar. I've gotten a lot better about thinking about what good bingeing on food is going to do me, how it's really helping to alleviate stress, anxiety, whatever. I've really gotten better and cutting out sugar has been a major help because my body is just more balanced I think.

So, Carolyn, what is your new challenge? Is it still no sugar or is it sticking to your diet and writing? In any case, good luck! :sunny: Let us know how you're doing! :cheers:

I quit smoking years ago by asking myself all the questions I'd give as excuses for smoking.

So, Carolyn, what is your new challenge? Is it still no sugar or is it sticking to your diet and writing? In any case, good luck! :sunny: Let us know how you're doing! :cheers:



First of all, congrats on the quitting smoking! That's awesome! That already has made you the stronger person. And I try to have a good attitude, but it doesn't always go as well as I want it to. :( I am such a binge/emotional eater that it makes it hard for me to do. That is the problem that I need to overcome first. Now if I could only find the best way to do that! :dizzy:

Congrats on Day 5! And with truffles in the fridge, wow! :cp:

And yes, my new challenge is to stay on the diet. But it's mainly to keep journaling. I feel I need to cope with my feelings now, before I can successfully start my diet again. I already have eaten pretty badly today, but coming on here has helped. :D The support is wonderful! Now, I am going to work out and burn that pizza off. ;)

Happy Sunday and good luck to the 21 day-ers!

Carolyn

Heh, Carolyn, just thought I'd reply to your message since you spent so much time on it. First of all, did you work out? If so, that's fantastic! If you can at least undo some of the damage you do by bingeing then you're ahead of the game. :lol: As long as it's in a healthy way! Really, I don't know if I'm the stronger person and really I don't think it's a matter of strength. Too many people think not overeating or sticking to a diet is about strength and hardness but over the years I've found it's really a lack of compassion for one's self that is getting in the way. Like MNJ said earlier, you've got to learn to love yourself. That's easier said than done in a society where we (especially women) are brainwashed to constantly "think of others," "sacrifice" and "not be selfish" all at the expense of ourselves. :nono:

To get a handle on things, meaning get on an even keel with you emotions (and thus your eating) you've got to get in touch with yourself and that means thinking about YOU! So if you want to call that selfish then fine, so be it. Selfish is GOOD! :yes: You're starting to do that by taking a look at your emotions, Carolyn, so good for you! It may be a long process so don't become impatient or think you're not making progress. Keep it up and keep us posted. :grouphug:

Hello hello!!

A quick post today.....

I have been told to postpone my pilates until Monday...give my back some rest time. Been told by my sweetheart. He didn't want me to be pulling more muscles and then him being out on the road to where he couldn't help me. So continuing on Monday with the pilates. (and I was on such a roll!!) I have been doing simple stretches to get them to relax more.

Welcome back Susan and Carolyn...

I will post individuals tomorrow...

Take Care
Marti

Like MNJ said earlier, you've got to learn to love yourself. That's easier said than done in a society where we (especially women) are brainwashed to constantly "think of others," "sacrifice" and "not be selfish" all at the expense of themselves. :nono:

To get a handle on things, meaning get on an even keel with you emotions (and thus your eating) you've got to get in touch with yourself and that means thinking about YOU! So if you want to call that selfish then fine, so be it. Selfish is GOOD! :yes: You're starting to do that by taking a look at your emotions, Carolyn, so good for you! It may be a long process so don't become impatient or think you're not making progress. Keep it up and keep us posted. :grouphug:



Thank you so much for all your insight! :) You made me realize a lot of things. And you are correct about society, we need to think about ourselves for a change! I will admit I tried to change myself for a lot of people, and that is completely wrong. It's time to be selfish, :lol: Gosh, that does sound weird. ;)

Marti-I believe you made the right choice with the muscles. Way to keep on track anyway. Rock on! :D

Oh, and by the way Marti, that was so cute of your sweetheart to be concerned like that! :D

Heh there all. Just a quickie to say I'm getting through Day 7 now.:cp: Hurrah for me!
I'm in until Feb. 18. That's the day after my last day.
How are you all doing out there?

By the way, MNJ, I wanted to ask you. What are the miles and hours in your signature?

Thanks redballoon for pointing the right thread out. :)

Well tomorrow will be my day one, and I'm going by these things:

1. Drink at least 3 bottles of water a day
2. Eat no more than 1200 calories each day
3. Do at least 10 minutes of toning each day

So tomorrow shall be day one.

Good morning ladies---

And welcome Alya!!! Your challenge looks very doable!! You're going to do great!!

Ok everyone...I am going to restart my 21 days...even though I was already half way there. To me, a couple days off I can understand, but it's becoming longer and I just don't think that's right so I will restart my pilates as soon as I am able. I came down with something and haven't been feeling good all weekend so maybe that is why I'm not doing so well. Just going to school and back wears me down!! But I WILL get back on track soon!!

Carolyn--Yes, my sweetheart is wonderful in every way! I am very lucky to have someone support me in everything I do even if it's not the smart thing to do!! :lol: I like what you wrote, "It's time to be selfish" it is time!!! the only problem is.....doing it! But that is something we have to learn to do. Take care of ourselves and really like ourselves. I remember not doing either!! Finally, I decided I AM worth taking care of! Everyone of us are worth taking care of...we just need to see that. You're going to do great on your weight loss journey. And we're here if you need us.

Red--What do my miles and hours mean? Well, me and a friend of mine both used to work at Sony and we were both part of the Fitness Challenge. They used to have everyone sign up and to the track. Which was logging the hours you exercise and then transferring that into miles. 20 mins. of exercise = 1 mile. So...my friend and I decided that we really liked doing that and we wanted to make it more fun instead of walking around a track we decided to find a place we would like to go visit. I chose Florida. And I am tracking my miles to Florida. We have the whole year of 2004 to do this. We started out great...then I pulled something and I haven't "budged!" It's funny because around the same time, the Atkins thread started a "Equator trek" pretty much the same thing...but they are combining their miles.

Dena & Susan--How are you doing? Hope all is good! Keep us posted girls!!

Hi guys,
Well, guess what, I'm back to day no. 1. Need I say more? February has got to be a better month. Congrats to all who have stuck with it. It ain't easy, so give yourselves a super pat on the back. Keep up the great work!
Dena

Im going to follow Alya. Her plan sounds nice and doable.

1. Drink at least 3 bottles of water a day
2. Eat no more than 1200 calories each day
3. Do at least 10 minutes of toning each day

Hi everyone!

Alya-Welcome! So you live in Australia? I'm leaving for Newcastle Thursday to Study Abroad. So excited, so nervous! That's why my challenge is so difficult lately!

Welcome Cherry! Good luck with the challenge.

Dena-Believe me, I know what it's like lately. :dizzy: Yikes!

Annd my computer is broken lately, so I'll try to be around when I can! :)

Until later!

Hey hey!

Ok so I"m back on day #1 too Den, as long as we keep starting over and trying....(I gave up completely for a while).

I just got through exercising and my cal intake was a little over 1,150. Im working on my third bottle of water as i type. So day 1 is out of the way. Only 20 more to do. This is so exciting and motivational.

Hello everybody!!!

Start over day one is completed! I did some pilates and I'm feeling pretty good. I'm hoping I can keep it up. I plan on only doing legs so my back isn't totally hating me by the time I'm finished.

Welcome to the newcomers!! Good to have a small group forming!!

Dena--February WILL be good. Let nothing stop us!!!!

Carolyn--What are you going to study??

Susan--I am also starting with day 1. We'll get through all 21 days....

Cherry--Glad your day 1 was a success!! Keep it up!!

Alya--How you doing?

Red--You've got a bunch on day 1! Where you at now? We'll all be trailing behind you...so watch your back! :D

Ok ladies...keep up the good work!! Until tomorrow....

Marti

Day One:
1. 1017 calories
2. almost three bottles, will be three by midnight
3. 10 minutes of lifting weights

So day one is a success :D

M.N.J: Does pilates hurt your back? I'm glad your enjoying it though, do you do it via a dvd or at the gym? I really like your mile idea! I'd walk to LA or NY if I could... only from over here in Australia that's just a tad unrealistic :dizzy:

Cherryxdoom: Yay for day one :D Tomorrow will be good for us too ;)

CareOLen: How long are you studying abroad for? Australia's pretty great - especially Sydney! (which isn't too far from Newcastle ;) )

Hi there. I'm finishing up my Day 8! Hurrah! This is where it gets hard for me. I've done the no sugar though so many times and the first three times were easy but lately it's getting tough. :?: I don't know. I guess I'm bored with it but if I don't do it I'm still afraid I'll pig out on sugar. Ok, you can do it!! Go me! :cheer:

Alya, :bravo: to you on Day 1!! That's fantastic!! And, by the way, I'm glad you found us. MNJ and myself it seems are the only oldtimers around these days. We always welcome new blood so glad to have you with us! God, that sounds like we're a bunch of vampires! That looks like a tough challenge to me, the 1200 calories. If I only ate that much I'd be keeling over light-headed (she says wondering why the scale doesn't budge). You've got a buddy/rival in cherryxdoom. Good luck! :cb:

And speaking of cherry, welcome to you too! :wave: Interesting name, sounds like we have a heavy metal group in the making. :bravo: Congratulations on your first day in the bag!! :cp: :cp: Same here of course, I don't know how you do it with so few calories. . . you'll be an inspiration yet. :dancer:

MNJ, thanks for the explanation on the miles/hours. Sounds like a long way. Walking to Florida. Wow! I'm glad you're back with us and able to do your pilates exercises again. Do you feel a difference when you do them? Do you see any change or feel any? :cool:

Dena, Scuzin, glad to see you're back on track as well. That's the good thing about this challenge is it's easy to say whether you're on or off. You either are or you aren't and if you aren't you can just start over again. And if it takes how many times to get to 21 it doesn't really matter because you've just kept trying and all those trying days add up as well. So, hang in there and keep posting! :yes:

Carolyn, are you still with us? You posted but didn't mention what day you were on, did you? How's it going? I hope well!! :sunny:

Hi everyone! Just wanted to say goodbye, since I'm leaving tomorrow and my computer at home is broken. :( I'll try to talk to you time to time from Australia.

To answer questions, I'm studying Dietetics (e-gad, listen to my own advice ;) ), but I'm not far enough into it yet to know much. :lol:
And, I'm on day 3 of the 21 day challenge. Woo! And feeling better.

Good luck to everyone, and adios!

Carolyn

Im ashamed to admit that i have to start over. And i messed up on day 1, how sad is that? But i woke up this morning and told myself i was going to do it right to day and the next 20 days. So here i am admitting my mess up and starting over. Yesterday was just bad, do any of you ever get to where all you can think about is food and you have to have it right then? jeez i feel like such an junky. lol food is funny like that

1. I had 1,140 calories today.
2. 2 bottles of water and will finish third before midnight
3. just finished my 10 min work out

I am proud to admitt though, that i did resist Taco Bell, Pizza Hut and binging(again) when they were offered for dinner and lunch and when i was bored.

Everyone, congrats on completing anther day!! :D

I just sat here for five minutes staring at the computer :o Although technically I passed today, the foods i did eat weren't particularly healthy so I'm not sure if I want to count today. I'm an extreme perfectionist so I shall have to say that I want to start over, because I want to be eating well - not just sticking to the calories, so tomorrow shall be my new day one. :D

Redballoon congratulations on Day Eight! When you say no sugar, do you mean no sugar or no sugary foods?

Cherryxdoom I will join you in starting over... we can do it! :D

Hello there. I'm on Day 9 and only have a few more hours left. I can do it! :yes:

Carolyn, Bon voyage! :hat: I do hope you'll check in with us from Australia. You'll be in my neighborhood (well, kind of). Are you going to try to stay on the challenge? Well, that may be hard . . . In any case, best of luck with everything and have fun in Oz!

Cherry, that's the spirit! :sunny: Never be ashamed about starting over! :no: We're here for you, through the ups AND downs. :yes: So, just start again, always. That's part of the good thing about this. Like I've said before, it's simple to know when you're on or off and there's no shame in starting over. Just do it. No excuses either way. You can do it!! I'm rooting for you. :cheer: Oh, and heh, about thinking about food ALL the time. Yes, yes, and yes again! It's horrible, but so what?! Maybe we should just consider it our hobby!! :lol: Heh, you could do a lot worse!!

Alya, wow, you are a perfectionist. :eek: Do you think that's OK. Well, I guess if you enjoy it. ;) Yes, when I say no sugar I mean no sugar as in any sort of sugar or sweetener or honey and no food that has had any sugar added, so I'm always checking labels. You'd be amazed at the things that have sugar in them. And all the names for sugar as well. You more or less can't eat too many processed foods because there's sugar everywhere. I draw the line at eating out. I'm not going to worry if the sauce has sugar in it or something like that. Then again, if I'm being real picky I must admit that I can taste it in things and then try to stay away. My real reason for staying off the sugar though is that real sweet things set me off like an alcoholic and then I just go on a sugar binge, major or mini. My energy levels now are amazing. No swings like before and as long as I don't eat sugar I don't binge. My skin is really good as well and I feel much more alert. Now, when I do eat sugar the next day it feels like a hangover! :yes: Really!

Everyone else out there, how are you doing? I hope well and hope to hear from you soon! :wave:

Wow, redballoon that sugar thing sounds like a great idea! And nope, I hate my perfectionism, I'm trying to work through it with my psychologists/psychiatrists at the moment... but I had to give in this time and not count today. :dizzy:

Anyway, good luck to everyone for tomorrow!!

Just checking in for a minute.... Just wanted to say I made it to day #3. My goals are to drink 8 glasses of water, exercise 30-60 minutes per day and eat right (under 1400 cals.). I've done this for 3 days now and feeling a lot better for it.

Alya, I understand the perfectionist thing. Unfortunately, I'm the same way. I seem to be harder on myself than anyone else. What does your therapist suggest?

Red, congrats on the no sugar idea. I like it. I feel better without it, too, so I know what you mean.

Marti, how are you doing? Congrats on restarting pilates.

Care, sorry to see you go.

And to everyone else, hang in there! We can do this together.
Dena

1. i had 1150 calories
2. i drank 3 bottles of water and will probably have anther soon
3. I will exercise in about 30 mins.

i hope everyone has had as great a day as me. hang in there

Good for you Dena!! :bravo:

Alya, you slavedriver, you! Whip yourself into shape for a perfect tomorrow!! :drill:

Cherry, you're almost there. Just jump into that exercise and chug that water and you'll have done Day 1!! :cb:

Happy Friday, Everyone!!

Here I am on Day #4. :D I accomplished my goals yesterday and today aim for the same. Here are my goals: eat less than 1400 cals, exercise 30-60 minutes and drink my eight glasses of water. I know the weekends are tricky, but I have faith.

Here's wishing you a wonderful weekend! :)
Dena

Hi everyone can I join in. Today is day 2 for me.

Drink min 3 bottles of water
Exercise play set out for the day. I have a different exercise route each day.
Continue with good eatting habits.

OK So my 21 days will be up on my 38th birthday......fingers are crossed.

Good luck to you all.

Hello All, I'm back on day 1 with the water challenge....again....I WILL get thins thing going!

Den - Congrats on day 4....great start!

Welcome Hockeychic!

Hey, hey, hey... it's on to day no. 5. Last night we went out to dinner, and I stayed at 1200 cals for the day! Yay! I've been posting my calories at fitday and that seems to help me.

My goals for today are the same: eat under 1400 cals, drink 8 glasses of water and exercise for 30-60 minutes. When I post my goals I seem to want to attain them.

Scuzin, your body is loving you for drinking the water. I know it's harder in the winter, but drinking it revs up the metabolism. Great job!

Welcome, Hockychic. Happy Birthday month to you!

Take care everyone,
Dena

Hi all. Not doing too good here but I'm going to say I'm still making my challenge (though barely). Today will be Day 13 I believe. You people are what keeps me going so please keep posting. (I know I haven't been but these are the times I need you all to post the most).

Good going to all those you have continued on their challenges successfully, and to those of you you haven't, please just come back and try again.

Later!

Well im not too happy about yesterday so im starting over again. I made it to day 4, so thats a success.

Keep going redballoon your doing great. Keep up the good work.

Everyone else, you have almost made it through anther day, keep going strong. If anyone else has to start over, we can do it!

Done with day 6. Yay! And today was the hardest day so far, so I'm glad I made it.
Good luck, everyone!
Dena

*hides for cover*
1. not sure, but definately under 1000
2. 2 - will be three before midnight
3. 1 hour of toning

I want this to be day one again, coz I didn't like yesterday. Why I hear you say? I don't know, I just didn't like it. And today being a Monday and everything - Why not start over!

I hate it when I do that. Okay, no more starting over unless I don't go by my rules. *nods* Someone hit me over the head the next time I restart for no valid reason. :dizzy: :o

Just checking in...
This is day no. 7! Monday is my favorite day when it comes to getting motivated. My goals for the day (as usual): eat under 1400 cals, drink 8 glasses of water and to exercise for 30-60 minutes.

I had kind of a stressful week, so thanks to this thread and everyone's great support, I made it through some tough times.

Red Balloon, CONGRATULATIONS on continuing to stay strong. We need each other on this thread, and you are our main rock! We can do this together.

Marti, how are you doing? How's pilates coming along? Hope your back is better.

Alya, good luck to you this week. I know you will do great.

Cherry, Monday is a fresh start. Good luck to you!

Scuzin and Hockeychic, hope your week is a great one.

Good luck, everyone. Let's make it happen.
Dena

Hi everyone!!! I would really like to join this challenge if its okay. I have hit a terrilbe plateau:sp: after loosing 24 lbs and I an going nuts and need something to get me going again.... :dizzy:

My challenge for 21 days will be to cut out ALL sugar...and refined sugar..I will do it!!! refined sugar is like white bread right? Im slow some days :lol: Well I check in tomorrow and tell you all how today went....So far so good. :smug:

Wish me Luck,

Amanda

Welcome, Amanda! Good luck on not eating sugar. I'm trying to do the same, so is Red Balloon. We can do this!
Dena

Hello everyone--

Welcome Amanda!!

Sorry I haven't posted in awhile.....been busy with school work and other things.

I have not been doing my pilates.....kind of put that on the back burner for the time being.

I just wanted to post quickly that I haven't lost interest in the 21 day challenge, but I have so much on my plate right now that I can't concentrate on getting my exercises in. I have thought about doing another food challenge, but I'm doing pretty good there and my water is just excellent.....So eventually I will get back to the exercise.

I will post again soon when I'm ready. So I promise....I WILL be back!!

Marti

Hello all!
I"m on day 4 here...I think....and going strong.
No worries MNJ, we all know what its like to get stressed and overburdened.
Welcome welcome Amanda!

Day 2 and going strong :D

This is day no. 8! Yaaaaahoooooo!

Marti, we'll miss you. Take care and come back soon.

Red, how are you doing?

Have a great week, everyone.
Dena

Hello all challengers! Thanks for the encouragement. I was really barely skinning by these past days and I was annoyed and ready to lump it because even though I was staying off sugar I was eating way way too much of other things. So I was feeling that not eating sugar was meaningless. I hadn't been able to get to the gym and that didn't help because I couldn't undo the damage I was doing with the heavy eating. Well, something finally clicked and I turned a corner again. For one, I thought, I only have one more week of no sugar and darned if I'm not going to do it. I'm sick of starting over. Even if it's only a matter or principle. So here I am, on Day 15. With Valentine's Day coming up it may be a bit difficult but I'm going to do it, again, just because I'm determined to do it!! :strong:

cherry, ok, you're starting over again. Whatever keeps you going, that's the important thing. Good luck and keep at it kid!
Congratulations Den@ on getting to Day 8! :bravo: You're doing well this time. :cp: Keep it up and thanks for the support!

Alya, you're on a restart too I see. Ok, perfectionist extreme, no problem there. But remember, we're not judges. We're the cheering squad and we cheer you on through it all so just keep going, OK?!?! :cheer:

Amanda, of course it's OK to join!! :lol: Welcome aboard and good luck. It's nice not being alone on the sugar thing these days. And congratulations on your 24-lb weight loss. Good work and good for you!! :cp: Keep us posted and let us non-sugar challengers try to help us through the 14th, OK?! :eek:

Scuzin, good to see you're still with us. :bravo: on reaching Day 4!! You can do this! :yes:

MNJ, I totally understand. Get some rest, kick back and enjoy your success. You've been a great one and you've inspired many of us. We'll miss you while you're gone but we look forward to you joining us again. Please hurry back!!

This is day No. 9! My goals today (as usual): to eat less than 1400 cals, drink 8 glasses of water and to exercise 30-60 minutes.

Red Balloon, CONGRATULATIONS on reaching Day 15!!!!!

Happy Wednesday, Everyone!
Dena

Day No. 10!

I'll be busy moving, so I don't know it I'll be here the next few days. Hope you all have a great weekend.
Dena :)

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

OH my gosh! I have missed you all soo much! I am so sorry i haven't kept in touch. So much has been going on. Then we also switched internet providers and that has been a nightmare too.

Good news is I have lost one pound. I know no big deal but considering that on Saturday i will be 12 weeks prego with no gains i'm happy.

I have had no typical symptoms which has been nice. I have had some irregular heart palpitations and some extreme dizziness, but it's less often now. i had to have an ekg,an ultrasound for my heart and wear a heart monitor for 24 hours. everything came back normal, they did notice the palpitations but were not concerned.

The take over at work has been really stressful and is beginning to calm a bit, just in time for the next big change in systems and procedures taking place in march.

I have had one typical symptom and that's tiredness, hubby says it's my fault though because I won't slow down. I have some though. The heart thing acts up if I walk rapidly so I get short of breath, when that happens they told me to take it down a notch, so I am.

we got to see baby on the ultrasound at 9 weeks no way to determine the sex at that age. baby was dancing around and having a grand ole time though. I am so excited!!

we already have been yard saleing and have gotten a high chair,a bouny seat,a changing table,a toddler bed,a stroller 2nd hand from my sister and a few baby toys. Lots of scrubbing and they are like new!

This weekend is a really busy one for me,sat morning is yard sales,afternoon is animal rabies shots,evening is babysitt a friends baby, sun morning is church, afternoon is DAYTONA 500!! Sunday evening I am chaperoneing a valentines dance for ROTC.
I guess that's it on me for now and I will try to check in more often, I hope all of you are doing great and losing like crazy!

I love and miss ya's,
Lisa

PS My craving is STEAK...oh my god you just have no idea!!! Hubby took me out to a nice steak house restaraunt that was too much for us and I think It was practically an out of body expierience!! He says when we get our taxes back we will go again!!

Den@, Good for you! Congrats on getting to Day 9! I hope you're feeling good about yourself and your accomplishment! :dancer:

Heh, where is everyone!?!?!?! :?:

Lisa, so good to hear from you. Why don't you join us again with a doable challenge, even expecting. . . Yes? . .. No?　It'd be great to have you with us again. We're a little sparse these days. But we're still kicking!!!

WELCOME BACK LISA!
Very good to hear from you again :D
Me, I'm back on day 1...meh
Hope all are doing well

Hello everyone. Where are you all? I had to go to page 2 to find the thread. Well, I bonked out just a day or two before finishing my challenge but . . . oh well, no matter. I'm going to think of the next one and be back. Hope to see more of you!!

Day 17!!!!! I shall continue my goals to eat less than 1400 cals, drink 8 glasses of water and exercise. Moving has really helped me keep busy and eat less. And somehow I am determined to drink that water and walk.

Have a great day, everyone!
Dena

:bravo: for you Den@!! You are really doing it!

I have been away from the site for a long time, and I am ready to start my weight loss challenge again, and think this is a great thread. I like the idea of 21days. For the next 21 days i plan to:
1. drink eight glasses of water a day.
2. Stay away from candy.
3. Exercise at least 30 minutes a day.
Well I am going to start exercising. Thanks for all the support, I sure do need.

Hi everyone!! I have made it safe and sound to the land Down Under. I am now very confused abuot what time it is everywhere! :)

I only had time to skim over what I have missed, but it looks like everyone has been doing a great job! Way to go!

I have been writing in my journal majorly just because there's so many things to write about. I've already done so many awesome thigns, but yet I have come across some hardships. Like, trying to find an apt. in 3 days! :-/. That was very stressful. But I now have an apt! So yay! Everything will be much better when I finish registering for my classes. Then I can focus on being healthier and eating healthier.

I'll keep y'all posted. Until then, keep up the good work!

Carolyn

Jessamy, welcome aboard! :cb: It sounds like a great challenge and a pretty tough one. What kind of exercise do you usually do? Keep us posted and good luck! :dancer:

Carolyn, mate, good to hear from you. Well, you're pretty much the same time as me now. Where in Oz are you? Glad to hear you found a flat and we all hope to hear from you soon.

I'm in between challenges right now. Bummed out on the last one and am going to reassess things, maybe just slide for a while and see just how hogwild I go. Sometimes NOT having a choice makes me want the junk more, especially recently, when I have next to NO time for myself and want more choice in some area (food, eating habits). I suppose it's all a matter of perspective though. Ok, gotta run.

Everyone, come on back and help us out!!

Well I got to Day 9 and then I got sick again so that failed :mad: But this time I'm going all the way!!

1. Follow the caloric guidelines in the program (will range from 1200 - 1350 depending on exercise)
2. Drink two litres of water a day
3. Three hours minimum exercise per week

CareOLyn, welcome to Oz :D Yay for the apartment, and hope you're settling in ok.

Wow Dena, you're doing great, maybe some of your good work vibes will rub off on me ;)

Red, I hear you on the not having a choice part, it drives me wild. Good luck with reassessing!

1. Inside guidelines :D
2. Will be met by midnight :D
3. 180 minutes exercise :D

*happy dance*

Blech, celebrations ruined by the fact that I have an essay due tomorrow :mad:

Hello Alya, How are you? It looks like everyone has abandoned the challenge! Are you still counting the days or are you back at Day 1? Did you really mean 180 ???!?!! minutes of exercise?

Good luck and keep me posted. :wave:

HI all!
Yes I am on day one. Its taken a lot for me to get back in action but I'm here! 21 days of water! I hope everything is ok with everyone and you can find your way back.

Well Day 1 is complete!!! YAY! I also worked out today for the 1st time in a while...Feelin' good.
Hope everyone is ok...

Day Four completed, but no exercise added. But I met my quota of at least 3 hours exercise for the week... which was done all in one day :dizzy: But I have my basketball game tomorrow which will be roughly an hour :D That goes towards the new week though. And I'm not going to be able to update tomorrow so good luck everyone with the weekend!

Day 2 complete! YAY!
Congrats on Day 4 Alya and good luck with the Basketball game

:bravo: Scuzin on your first two days!! :cp:

And good for you too Alya. And have fun with your game!

Day 3 done! I'm on a roll!
Good Luck all and I hope to hear from you soon

Day 4 & 5 done! WOO HOO! I'm hoping for a sweep with this challenge!
I hope everyone is doing well...wherever you are...

Did everyone stop this???? I had to go and look for this thread!!
Let me know if anyone is still working on this!

Marti

Hi Marti!
I'm still going. I'm on day 16! I wasn't posting because I didn't know what happened to anyone else. Hope there are still others out there.
How've you been?

Hi there. Marti, Scuzin, I stopped because there wasn't much interest anymore and I was kind of tired of the challenge myself.

Hi Scuzin and Red---

I understand what you're saying Red. I just thought I would pop in and see how everyone was doing.

I haven't done much of anything challenge wise. Just been trying to do better with everything. Soooo much going on with me that it's crazy!! How do we survive with the things we do sometimes?

Well....if any of you would like to chat.....I'm on the Jaded Ladies thread...or just PM me. I can yap away anytime.

Marti

Been missing you - I had a major setback - some type of advanced irritable bowl that has plagued me prior to the holiday season. Horrible stomach cramps followed by vomiting. Put a real "cramp" in my diet. :cry:

Despite not being able to keep anything down I still could not get under 222! I had to eliminate food, drink, supplements and even vitamins one by one trying to determine what sets me off. My last visit to ER resulted in a new medication that seems to be working :cp:

Ready to get back into the swing of things - been struggling with 3 balanced meals a day, but successful with treadmill workouts - only missed 1 day in the past 2 weeks! :strong:

Working on Day 1 of 100 oz of water! Looking forward to catching up with all of you.

Cat

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Hi Cat!
My goodness, I'm glad you are feeling better!
This is day 19 for my water challenge...almost there! I kept it up even though no one was posting.

Hi everyone! So sorry I haven't posted for a while. I tried writing a couple times, and it didn't work for some reason. :/. Oh well, I'm here again! Let's see what I remember reading. I'm in Newcastle NSW, and having a great time. Been really busy with school.

I've pretty much caught up with my journaling, so I'm trying a new "drink water approach". Basically realizing that I need to drink more water, especially since I work out.

Cat-Wow! I hope things get better for you, that's crazy!

*waves to Scuzin, Red, and Marti*

Wow, I know what it's like to hit a plateau and not want any more challenges to take. However, whether diet-based, or life based, I find that every LITTLE bit helps. If my life is in balance, I am much more healthy and happy. :)

Good luck y'all!

Carolyn

Scuzin, everyone, hi there. Just came in to look. Haven't been getting any email notices so didn't know you'd posted. Scuzin, good for you for sticking to it. You're almost there, aren't you? Tell me when so I can come and give you a big hand!! :wave:

Hello! Today is day 21! I'll post later today WHEN I complete it!
Hope everyone is doing great

Hang in there Scuzin!!!!

Hello! Today is day 21! I'll post later today WHEN I complete it!
Hope everyone is doing great

Good luck!! I know you can do it!

Hi Red!

Hello everybody.....

Well it has been some time since I've done this 21 day challenge :o ...and with Spring coming up means that summer is just around the corner and I really need to get myself "BACK" on track like I was before. So I decided to buck up and give myself a challenge again.......

And it's going to be boring of coarse....same thing before...Water AND breakfast. Those two things I've done very well with in the past and then I slacked off. So...this challenge is just going to put me back into getting it done again.

So..........

Have breakfast everyday
And drink 60-80 oz of water everyday.

I've already started this so this is actually my 3rd day.

I hope everyone else decides to join this again....we gotta keep it going. And if the interest isn't there, that's ok too. I will be posting just because I need to. It helps to "log" my days here and keep me motivated. And I WILL NOT have many restarts!! I can't do that...I think that's what lost my interest in the first place!!!

Ok.....who all is in??

OH BEFORE I FORGET!! Congrats Scuzin for sticking with this challenge during our "down" time!!! Hope to still see you.....I need company.

Alrighty then....

Marti

Happy St. Patrick's Day :)
and YES, I did it! I completed all 21 days :)
Good luck to all of you just starting or re-starting....I need to think of a new one now!

M.N.J. - Count me in!

I am working on 100 oz of water a day and and cardio workout everyday for 21 and this is day 3 for me :D

I am having trouble with the treadmill, though. My bum knee wants to go out on me. I am bracing it but it is getting more and more difficult to get my mile in everyday. May have to switch to or alternate with Tae Bo tape.

My goal is to lose weight, at least 2 dress sizes by May 15 when I take off for Disneyworld with my in-laws! I am determined to keep losing something every week. No more Yo-Yo.

Wish me the luck of the Irish and then some. :) Good luck to everyone!

Cat
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Hello--

Happy St. Patty's Day!!!

Well day 4 is here. I drank my water....most of it in the afternoon though...I'll be feeling it tonight in my sleep!! :o

Unfortunately...no breakfast....unless you count a cup of coffee.

But...I'm sticking with the day 4 only because my main issue is getting the water in. Feel like I'm forcing myself to drink sometimes...but it's gotta be done.

Cat--Glad you're joining me!
Scuzin--Congrats on finishing!! Hope to see you soon.

Ok girls...talk to you tomorrow.

Marti

Hi everyone!

Good job Scuzin! You are an encouragement to all! :jig:

Hi Cat-Good luck. As for the exercise, do you think the Tae Bo might be harder on your knee than the walking? Or have you tried an elliptical machine? And if it hurts at the end, make sure to ice it. Either way, a little bit can go a long way. Good luck to you! :)

Marti-You still have the right attitude. My 21 day challenge is to drink more water also. I have a tendency to confuse my hunger and thirst, so I need to change that. Day 2 for me.

Good luck to all!

Carolyn

Hi ladies--

Well I thought I should pop in since I said I was going to start posting...today went great...had my breakfast and I'm getting the water in....slowly but it's getting in!

I have a lot going on this Spring Break (I'm getting married on the 24th!!!).....and I usually pop in a few times with the Jaded Ladies and chat then I'm off...so coming here to this post sometimes is forgotten. So...I have decided to bring my challenge over to the Jaded Ladies.....(this challenge is mainly for myself )to keep me on track.

I hope I don't sound like a terrible poster, but I thought I would let you know in case you wondered where I went to. If this thread was more active, I may consider coming back.

I want to let you all know that you are all welcome to join me over at the Jaded Ladies thread.....we're way at the bottom in "Clubs & Groups"

Please forgive me and don't think I'm abandoning you all.....with everything going on here at home...I felt I should concentrate in one area.

Good luck to all and feel free to pop in and say "hello"!!

Marti

Hi everyone!

It is 4:30 a.m. and I am still up. Got crazed working on my daughter's project due this a.m. Gotta stop this perfectionist thing - but it looks great - she did most of the work herself but I had to tweak, edit, etc. until she went to bed disgusted :^:

Just now getting around to posting. I am going to be beat tomorrow. Anywho, I have had 5 days of success - Treadmill and 100 oz water everyday :cb: I just got off the scale and I am up a pound- go figure. I think I am going to have to add in no scale to my challenge as well. The scale is a cruel lover for me. I weigh in 3 times a week with MWL but I could go and just not look. Got to think about how I am going to manage that.

I know it could be just water retention since I just took my BP med. I usually take it before bed so I can get some of my excess urination going before work. I know this is TMI. I am not giving up - 16 days to go!!

M.N.J. I miss you already - thanks for stopping in - may have to check your jaded ladies out

CarOLen - thanks for the tip - I wish I had an eliptical but hubby says we can't bring in another piece of equipment unless we get rid of something! We have a stair master, a huge treadmill and a bowflex (which we are not usingI). As soon as I get my office cleaned out some more - I may have to make that investment. I may try the tae bo because it is not a constant pounding on my knee - but I will definitely do the ice - I can never remember if it's heat or cold - thanks again
Scuzin' - Congrats to you on your 21!!!! :cp: :cp: :cp:

Red - are u done with your challenge?

Everyone have a great day!

Cat
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I have a lot going on this Spring Break (I'm getting married on the 24th!!!).

I want to let you all know that you are all welcome to join me over at the Jaded Ladies thread.....we're way at the bottom in "Clubs & Groups"

Congratulations on the marriage! And I may stop in there sometime. :)

Cat-That is some crazy hours you were pulling there! Good job on the good work. :) Keeps me going. The scale is the best and worst thing ever invented. I go with how the clothes fit, since weight can fluctuate so much. However, I did keep on track well when I had to get weighed when I donated plasma.

My friend's dad is a cross country coach, so I asked him about pulled muscles (since I seem to pull my groin a lot). He said heat before, ice after. Which makes sense. Try that. :)

Red--Red, where are ya girl? Your'e a great addition to this team. Come back!

I'm doing well on my water challenge. This weekend it was a bit harder, since I was volunteering and I didn't want to be a water hog. However, I took as much as I was allowed, and started hard core again Sunday.

Good luck everyone!

Carolyn

I forgot to add it's Day 7 for me. Oops!