Hi all. I haven't been in a social mood at all. Things have been bad which I explain next-and before hand...I'm sorry for the 'dumping' of issues that I am about to do.

The past week my mom has been getting 'goofy' again because of pain meds. Long story short, yesterday she was seeing things that weren't there. I went to her house bout 8pm at her request to pick up 'needles or staples that were all over the floor'. We argued when I told her there was nothing there. Then at 1:30 in the morning she called in tears cause "the snake that was in the basement came upstairs and got into the birdseed and spread it all over the floors. Come get me and the cat now, I don't care if you believe me or not, just come get me out of this house please!" So I totally freaked out crying and all, called my aunt, called my best friend, then realized what time it was, and freaked cause of that. We all went to mom's and Ryan convinced her that snakes wouldn't want to be in a house with people around, that the 'birdseed' she saw was 'cat litter' and that pain meds will make you believe what isn't there. He also 'searched' the house. She listened to him and calmed down while talking about me like a dog while I was in the other room crying. note-earlier that day her nurse called the doc and they agreed that mom should cut her pain meds to once a day, not twice, because she was seeing children in the room. I KNOW it's a build up from the pain meds, cause this happened before in the hospital when they had her 'doped up'. So I got to bed about 4 in the morning today. I called in to work before I went to bed and got up at noon.

So I've been eating poorly this week and didn't weigh in. I totally feel my weight going up and really don't want to see what it is right now. I'll get back on track, but I may have to take a hiatus from here for a week or two. I have to get myself together so I don't break emotionally and make sure my mom is OK. That's also why I'm not on here much. I've been reading when I can and it looks like everyone is doing well, even with slip ups here and there. That is fantastic! I just need some time so I can regroup and actually work at this and contribute to the forum.

I did eat good today, though! I had a salad with cranberries, pecans, boiled egg, little bit of hard cheese mix and regular dressing. Then tonight I grilled out to thank Ryan for last night. We had steak with onions and mushrooms (eeewww-that was for him) and diced sweet potatoes with butter and brown sugar. The steaks were huge and I only ate half of it and half of the sweet potatoes. That's it. No snacks, no picking at anything else. That's an accomplishment considering how I've been eating.

I'll still keep reading when I can so I can keep up with what's going on with everyone, but I have to hit the 'pause button', if you will, for a bit. But I fully intend on coming back and losing it with the rest of you! :)

Hey ladies.

Dancer-down 2 lbs, awesome. I will keep everyone posted on my week. I need to kick it up. I hope you dont hit a plateau either.

Staccie-Glad things went well at the dr. Sounds like you are making good decisions and getting back on track with everything going on in your life. You and me both hope to be under 220 next Sunday. Hairspraying food, hmm, might have to try that if cravings ever get bad.

Maddiesmom-Sorry to hear about your torn muscle. Hope you have a fast recovery and can get back into the gym.

Lindy-you are doing great. 188, I cant wait to get there. Sounds like you had fun with your friends and getting hit on!!!! Hopefully your binge wont be too bad on your body. Just exercise and get lots of water in.

Kelly-I have been wondering where you have been. Sorry to hear about all that is going on with your mom right now and I really hope it gets better for both of you soon. I think we all understand that you need to take a break. Come back when you can.

As for me, I am up for the challenge. My plan:
Count calories this week(try to stay around 1400)
Exercise 5 days a week at least 30 minutes.
Drink lots of water.

I actually got out the WII fit tonight, I havent been on it in, I think it said, 53 days. Thats a long time. It can be fun so I need to use it. I havent started back doing the 30DS, but I will. I so ready for Saturday to be here, my mom, sister and niece will be here!! YAY!! Hopefully, my sister will be up for some evening walks. I have to stay on plan while they are here, dont want to end up gaining more. Gotta get my house clean, so that will be a workout. Oh and the yard, yikes, my grass is so long, hopefully the hubs will do most of that. Well, its one in the morning so I am gonna try to sleep. Have a nice night everyone.

Sandy-I know you miss your daughter, but keep yourself busy and keep losing and it will be time to see her again before you realize it.

Neesy-good to see you, 2 lbs is amazing.

Maddiesmom - I find exercise has a really positive influence on my eating habits too. I've never really understood it but it seems like the more I exercise, the more I treat my body like a machine that needs the best kind of fuel and my interest in junk food or anything bad drops a lot. So, yeah, I totally relate but have no idea why it happens. Maybe that's how skinny active people stay skinny? So sorry to hear about your pulled muscle - that's such a bummer! Just my two cents on the being sore everywhere stuff - some people like to alternate body parts on different days when they do weights - you may find that that's easier to handle as far as not having everything sore at once. The first couple weeks are the worst though, whenever you tackle anything new. Good job on the food choices for yesterday!

Takeadeepbreath - Hang in there, kiddo! Sounds like a very hard time - we're here when you want to blow off steam.

Burgundy - Good for you for doing your WII fit! Sounds like you have a fun weekend in store!

So, yesterday's info for our challenge:
Eating: 1407 (although I really had the munchies and wanted to eat more, I knew I had to come tell you guys about it : ) )
Exercise: 1.5 hr walk

Let's keep it going!

Hi girls!

Oh, I was so excited to hop on this morning and see that everyone was busy posting. Awesome! I am really proud of myself for yesterday, despite an early morning binge at McDonalds, I still feel within my calorie range for the day, at exactly 1600 calories, today is going to be a lower day of 1200. I was super tired this morning and wanted to sleep in but I pushed through it and had a killer workout. I also decided to jog this morning, instead of walking and was able to job 1 whole mile straight with no stopping! Woo-hoo!

So, let me dive in to everyone elses posts:

Vicky - uh, that totally stinks about your torn muscle, bummer..sorry to hear that. Here's hoping you have a quick recovery. Dont try to push yourself until your ready. My neighbor did that and ended up being out of commission from the gym for over 2 months and had to do physical therapy. Anyway, yeah - I agree with the crappy eatig theory and exercising. I didnt notice that that applied to me though until my recent vacation to Connecticut. When I first started doing the gym and weight I was so sore all the time, in fact my toothbrush felt like I was lifting a 10 pound weight, lol. It will subside, trust me...and when it does, you will really start to feel good. Right now its hard though because your probably sore all over and it hurts to even walk.

Stacie - do you have a Wii Fit? Since you are so busy with work and dont always have time to go to the gym and are battling your depression, you really may enjoy that. Its an expense that not everyone can fork up but let me tell you, it works! My moms best friend started doing Wii Fit like 8 months ago, hasnt changed her eating habits and is in her late 40's and has lost 40 pounds. Its so much fun too and it has Yoga. Just a thought. Anyway, your plan for the week sounds good...keep up the good work.

Kelly - god sweetie, my heart breaks when I read your post sometimes. I would be an absolute mess if I was dealing with what your dealing with, I am SO SORRY. I can only imagine how stressful things are. In general, maybe you should step away from the diet thing all together to get that worked out. Eat in moderation so you dont binge and gain but focus on getting your personal like in order, then all the other pieces will fall together. If you ever want to hop on and just vent, please feel free to do so without a guilty conscious. Take care hun.

Burgundy - its funny, I hopped on my Wii Fit last night too and guess how many days it was for me 167! Now, I dont exactly feel guilty because I do the gym 5 times a week but I was thinking about something. Me and Gab love playing the Wii Fit together and its fun. SO instead of sitting down and watching a movie sometimes, why not just do the Wii Fit? Right? Because its related to exercise, I automatically put in my mind, "I dont need to do this because I already went to the gym this morning", but why not, if I enjoy it - what difference does it make.

Oh - speaking of the Wii Fit, has anyone seen the advertisements for the new Wii Active? My roomate works for EA Sports, the maker of the product and she was able to get it cheap for my mom, so my mom has been using it for about 3 weeks now and has already lost inches. Just an FYI.

Ill check in later. Good luck with everyone's goals today.

Lindy - Good for you for running a mile! WTG!! And great job on the calorie front! I find that if I goof up one day, it's harder to stay within limits the next day so that's extra impressive.

Heading out for a run shortly before work....

Hi Everyone,

Wow, I love that the board is active again! I missed yesterday and actually had to go back 5 pages to read after my post! Very cool! I love the new mini-challenge and will definitely join. Calorie range will be 1200 to 1400 per day this week, as I need to kick in my metabolism. I will workout 30 min per day also, alternating cardio and strength training.

Lindy - Had to laugh about the cheetos - too funny. I LOVE cheetos and have had to poor water in the bag, then throw them out otherwise they call my name! LOL.... Hey that is awesome you jogged a mile. I have wanted to do that for so long, but can only put out 1/4 mile and just can't go any further. I don't know if its my leg muscles not being strong enough or lungs. Congrates though!

Burgund - I wish I had a Wii! I have to admit I am envious. I have seen my daughters friends doing that in their home and it looks like fun - and a workout. I am glad your getting back into the schedule - next the 30DS right? LOL.. I know you are looking forward to family again and maybe your sister will want to workout with you on top of walking?

Neesy - Congratulations on the 2lb loss! Woo Hoo! That is awesome and I am wishing I were at the weight you are. I seem stuck, but hey, I WILL catch up! Keep up the good work.

Stacey - Your right about WW, because if you already know what you need to do, and can plan ahead, that is half the battle.

Kelly - I am so sorry for the stress you are under and pray all will ease up soon. It is perfectly understandable to stress and eat under those circumstances - I did it too! However, just remember the better you feel, the more mental and physical energy you will have to handle that stress. You salad today sounded absolutely scrumcious!!!!! Keep it up and you will be right back on track. ;-)

Dancer - Wow, you are doing awesome with food and workouts. You have me motivated again! Thanks for the mini-challenge - I needed it.

Hope everyones day is good! I did get my workout in 40 minutes cardio.

Hey Dance - so how is the weather there anyway? It must be so nice to go running up north in the summer, huh? I would love it take a visit there, I have my heart set on a ski trip eventually.

Well, so far so good.

I had Special K for breakfast
Blackberries for a snack
Tostito chips (24) with mango salsa - 400 calories, not bad
2 slices of american cheese
3 mini reese piece cups

That would put me at about 900 calories and I have 300 for the rest of the day and based on my dinner tonight, which is already made - I will be right where I need to be.

Hey everyone - wow what a busy day. I am putting aside 15 min to chat on here and had lots to read! I hope I can remember everything!

Vicky - definitely can relate - if I work out, I eat better for the most part. I think it's my brain telling me - "hey don't eat that you just ran your a$$ off" - so really more of a state of mind. It's too bad that you are that sore! Did you trainer ensure that you warmed up for a good 10 min first doing cardio and stretching? Maybe to keep your state of mind, do a small, less intense walk or some crunches or something (if you can).

Kelly - my heart goes out to you - and sounds like you are doing pretty well considering the circumstances - HUGS!!!

Burgandy and Lindy - I did the WII fit at my sisters. It was fun, but I just can't get into it. Maybe I like to look at the hot bods too much at the gym lol. And good job on the mile!!

Well my time is just about up :( Work is so busy. I was so proud though I left a bit earlier last night (if you call a 11 hour working day early lol) and went to the gym. I didn't even have to convince myself too much which was awesome!! I had a good 75 min cardio session. Tonight I have Yoga. Food is going really well and cravings have been minimal. Sadly, I have incorporate Coke Zero back into my diet but if that is the only craving I have then I am thankful, I am not drinking as much so I hope to wean off the stronger I get.

Only thing is, sorry for the TMI - I have been having problems going to the bathroom. Like 3-4 days and I am taking something for it. It's very uncomfortable. Any home remedies or thoughts? Sad to say but I think a lot of it is in my head because I am obsessing about it, but physically it's not so good. This only happens when I eat good!!! And I get a ton of fibre and I am even taking natural laxatives and still NOTHING! GRRRR. Hope none of you are eating lunch and reading this - sorry!

Hi Staccie - Sorry I spelled your name wrong earlier. I am so use to calling you Brown Eyed...lol. Anyway, it sounds like your eating is good, and I don't know much about the bathroom thing, but what about castor oil? LOL...don't freak, because I really don't know, but isn't that something they used 'back in the day?' It honestly sounds like your doing everything right, and I really wish I could help more. That happens to me, but when I exercise I seem to be more regular.

Today so far has been good. I got my workout in and my calories are running around 600 so far. I actually feel full, but it could be because I 'overindulged' last night......LOL...I'm not telling....LOL..

Where is Tiff Tiff? I miss you Tiff and all of your inspiration. I hope all is well.

Stacie - this happens to me often when I am eating healthy, I always am baffled by this considering I up my water intake and eat a lot of high fiber foods. Anyway, what I have found to work is a couple of things:

Coffee
Jalapenos (I love these cooked with some egg whites or chicken)
I also occasionally drink a bottle of this clear liquid, magnesium stuff. Its found in the laxative section and is in a glass bottle and comes in lemon, cherry and grape flavor, all of them taste horrible but it works within 2 hours of drinking it. Its almost like a colon clense for me - I know, TMI.

Sandy - awesome job on the calories. I work a little opposite when I binge. Maybe its because I stretch my stomach but getting back on track the day following a binge, I am starving! Its ridiculus. Is it just me or have we been having a beautiful summer? I mean, yeah its a given that its hot and rainy but it has been SOOOO breezy, especially in the morning and evenings. I genuinely love going out in the morning for my walk because of the nice cross breeze.

I'm so not in the mood to work today : ) I will buckle down and be super productive this afternoon - I promise!

mygrits - if you're seriously interested in increasing your running, do your quarter mile or whatever you can do comfortably then walk until your breathing and legs feel okay then run one more time, doesn't have to be long. Once you're okay with that routine, add another walking then running interval. That's the approach that many people use when they're getting started and it's exactly what I've been doing to increase my mileage. I can't remember how you get your cardio - is it on the treadmill? In any case, sounds like you are totally on plan today - nicely done! But what's this about overindulging last night and not spilling the gory details? : ) No fair - we've all been spilling the beans (or the cheetos, as it were). And with 'confessions' right in your username, too : )

Lindy - It's 95 here today so not that much cooler than the tropical south : ) - just a lot less humid, which honestly is pretty helpful when you're exercising. I just found out I may need to visit the Orlando area this fall - if that happens, we should definitely meet up for a 3FC shopping expedition or something. Sounds like you're doing great sticking to your plan! It doesn't seem like you're getting a lot of protein in what you listed so far today - is that something you try to track at all? I find I get the munchies way way more if I don't get enough protein - curious if others have that issue...

Staccie - wow are you working hard! I feel like such a slacker. I'm right there with you as far as diet sodas - I figure when I've lost the weight then I'll focus on that issue but if a diet root beer brings me joy at the moment, I'm going to enjoy the heck out out of it! As far as your other issue - sorry to hear that you've been uncomfortable. Major changes to your diet, even super healthy ones, can really confuse your system. The good thing is that your system usually adjusts in a week or two. Hope everything is back to normal soon!

Okay - I'm going to focus on earning my paycheck now : )

Staccie: The same thing happens to me when I eat super healthy, it usually takes a few days to pass. I've never had it where I was uncomfortable though. Hope things "clear up" soon, so to speak. I agree with Lindy, coffee usually does it for me. I can't believe your work schedule! But great job on going to the gym!

Kelly: My thoughts and prayers will be with you and your family. I agree with the others, take your time, and if you need time away, that's ok...you really need to focus on your family. Just know that we are here for you if you need us.

Ok, so here's my eats for the day, I did really well:
Breakfast: Dannon light yogurt, coffee
Lunch: Lean Cuisine Chicken Parmesean, sm. light caesar salad
Snack: grapes and strawberries
Dinner: turkey burger with baked potato (light butter, light sour cream) for veggies, I had a lot of lettuce, tomato, and pickles on the burger...no bun though.
Snack: Nature Valley Sweet & Salty bar (totally good if you like the salty and sweet together. There's peanuts, so it holds you over longer).

So, I'm under my points for the day...go me! LOL

My leg is feeling better, so I am going to go to the gym tomorrow after work. I will work my upper body and do some light cardio...maybe the treadmill to help stretch my leg...nothing too harsh, I don't want to do more harm than good. My first 2 workouts with Missy weren't bad at all, I was a little sore the next day, nothing too drastic. I think I was doing so well, she thought she could step up the workout, but stepped it a little too fast. Oh well, live and learn.

I have to say, I'm glad we're all more active on here...it's great to read how you are all doing. I have to say, it's great sharing the journey with all of you.

Good night!!!

Helllooooo girls!

I know I have been missing for QUITE a while. I finally closed on my house on June 23rd and have been going nonstop ever since. So, I have been moving in, fixing stuff, unpacking, and planning my wedding for the past few weeks. I only get on the computer every few days so I haven't even been logging in to read too much. I have been maintaining though! Despite not really watching or working out (although all this house stuff definitely qualifies as working out in my mind).

My wedding is in one month and a day, and 10 lbs down would make my dress look that much better. Oh yeah, I bought my dress this weekend! I absolutely loved it until I saw pictures of myself in it. I just think I look sooooo fat. Hopefully those photographers can do a good job and make me look thinner than I am.

Don and I took some pictures today to put in our wedding invitations and I don't think I look horrible, but I am definitely wider than him now :( I think every time we go to the gym between now and the wedding, I am going to concentrate on my arms. That is the part that looks the worst in the pictures we have taken.

Anyways, it is getting late and I still have a few things I want to accomplish before going to bed. I took a very long weekend and tomorrow is my first day back to work since last Thursday. I have a new intern to train! Yay. It's kinda fun, since that is where I started off in the company, as an intern, and now I get to train them. Although, weird story, last night I had a dream (nightmare?) that this girl from high school that I absolutely HATED was my new intern. Eek! Even weirder because she isn't in my profession and is at law school at NYU. So I have NO idea where that dream came from.

One quick shout out: Lindy! You're in the 180's! Awesome..you are quite inspirational as always. I really am in awe that you just keep this thread going and you are super motivational to everyone. Hopefully when things calm down for me, I can go back to being a big part of this board. Until then girl, keep it up. Oh and I can't wait to see those bikini pics you promised a few weeks ago.

Everyone else: keep on truckin! Thanks Sandy and dancer for the concern...I now I am not as present as I was previously...but I know you will probably agree that I have good reason! I will try to post at least once a week until life slows down in August. Especially now that I am getting back on the program tomorrow in order to get 10 more lbs off before my wedding!

Hey girlys - its 10 p.m. at night and usually I am ready to go to bed but tonight...not so much! Ugh! I hope I can get up in the morning for my workout, I am not even close to tired. I went and laid in my bed at 9 p.m. and tossed and turned until just now. Blah. Anyway...

Denver - no, today was an unusually low day for protein, I am actually pro protein most of the time but I was just craving carbs and before I knew it, my calories went up and up and so I would not exceed my 1200 calorie day, I had to stop and ended up not consuming much protein, oh well. That being said...YES - I stayed in my calorie range for one more day. By the way, did you make it to the gym?

Vicky - glad to hear your feeling a little better. I have to agree with you, when the forum is "jumping" it makes all the difference in how well I do, I love it! THANKS GIRLS!!!

Tiff - thanks for the positive feedback. I look forward to the day that you are back with us in full force, just think, tax season - check, house purchase - check, and wedding - check. You'll be able to focus back on your diet in no time. That being said - CONGRATS ON YOUR HOUSE AND WEDDING!!! Wow, a lot happens when your away for a couple of days. Oh - and I will take my bikini pics this weekend and post them. I look forward to seeing your wedding (and pre wedding) pics soon, please do share.

Have a good night girls, I am going to watch some tv and try the sleep thing again.

Howdy girls!

Tifftiff - nice to hear from you! Wow do you have a crazy busy life! Good luck with all of the challenges and exciting adventures ahead!

Maddiesmom - sounds like you did great today - hope the leg heals up fast.

Lindy - Way to be on plan!

So here's my info for today:
Eating: 1427 cal
Exercise: 1 hr jog

My knee's been hurting some lately and I've been icing it a ton. I'm kind of worried it'll get in the way of my new exercise groove but I may just have to mix it up a bit and use the elliptical or maybe borrow my dad's rowing machine for a while. Such a bummer when there's something that for a change you really enjoy in terms of exercise and your body cops out on you : (

Here's to another good day all around tomorrow!

Hi all, thought I would post before I hit the hay...I doubt I will get much of a chance tomorrow. Just got home from the gym - again really wanted to go. I did about an hour only of cardio but I had a good sweat going - and the other problem is gone (for now) - must have helped talking about it lol.

Did good today with everything...cravings are quite minimal which I am surprised. Worked out and ate below 1500 calories :) Now TOM is around the corner so I am bracing myself :) If I could just slow my job down that would be great. But the fact that I am leaving in time to get in a workout is huge change for me. And it makes me more productive in the long run. I've been sleeping well too and that is awesome. It's amazing how exercising and eating properly can make you feel - I need to remember that next time I feel like diving off the deep end into a pool full of chips and chocolate!

Dance- sorry about the knee...I hope it gets better!! Glad to see Tiff back and congrats on everything!! Vicky - good luck with the workout and healing too! Lindy - I sure hope you are sleeping by now!

Tomorrow I have a long day at work (13 hours at least)- and it's my day off at the gym but I will do some extra walking on the way home to stir it up a bit :). I am trying to take the 5th day as a rest day from the gym to repair my muscles, especially when I start incorporating more weight training again.

Well hope you all have a good day tomorrow, I hope I can sneak some time to log in and say hello and read everyone's inspirational messages!

S

Hey everyone. I did so good today up until after dinner, then my husband and I went out for ICE CREAM!!!!!!! But then we got home and I did tons of yard and housework, so I am hoping I burned some of it off. So before the ice cream my calories were right around 1400. I didnt get my walk in, I worked today. The 3 year old I keep is terrified of storms and doesnt even want to go outside on sunny days, which it was today. SO when I am there gotta work on getting him playing outside, so we can run up and down the big hills.

Lindy-good job running a whole mile. I dont know why I stopped using my wii fit, its fun and a great way to get exercise in. I am gonna start using mine more.

Sandy-yes Jillian is next. I have to get back to doing it daily. I have been bad and not exercising like I should.

Staccie-11 hours and you left early, wow. I like my wii fit but I guess its not for everyone. You keep enjoying those hot bods at the gym.

Maddiesmom-glad your leg is feeling better. Dont push yourself too much.

Tiff-you have been one busy chick. Glad you closed on your house, we need pics. Congrats on the wedding and we will need pics from that too. You can lose the 10 lbs and look awesome on your big day.

So tomorrow, I am gonna put Jillian in the dvd player and get back to 30ds daily. Plus I am gonna walk more. I have a healthy eating day planned out for tomorrow too. I WILL STAY ON PLAN TOMORROW. Goodnight!!

Morning girls -

Its funny, as soon as I went back to bed last night, around 1030 I fell asleep right away....whew....thank god. I was tempted to sleep in this morning because 1030 is still past my bedtime but I didnt, I got up and headed out. Today was a weight day for my lower body and I feel pretty good. The bad part is, I have ths stomach ache from **** today. I never get tummy aches so I dont know what is up, I am also feeling nauseated. I get this feeling everytime I take my womens one a day in the morning, if I take it in the evening, nothing happens but everytime I take it in the morning, nauseated for almost half the day, even worst off, I have no desire to eat. Which in some regards is good but when your trying to keep your metabolism truckin, not so much. Fortunately, I had a big breakfast before my pill, so thats good. I had 3 egg whites, 3 pieces of bacon and 1 cup of watermelon.

Stacie - I am really happy for you. Just "reading" your posts, not being face to face, you can see the difference in your personality and outlook. When I look back on your previous posts, I noticed that you had 2 instances where you started to feel depressed and both involved a high level of stress at work and a major binge (not that Im analyzing you, just trying to help), so that being said....you must stay on the horse, lasso the stress and put your cow girl hat on and feel confident, lol. You CAN do this. Your doing awesome with your eating and exercise, I am really looking forward to everyone weighing in this Sunday, I think we are going to see big numbers.

Burgundy - tisk...tisk... :) Ice cream is such a major downfall for me, it is my absolute favorite snack in the whole world (althought based on my posts, you guys would probably say Cheetos or Cheez Its is the winner, lol). Anyway, at least you were able to off set it with exercise. I am going to hold each of you accountable, thats the only way the scale will go down on Sunday. Come on girl...make a deal with me, you are NOT going to go off the plan for the rest of the week. You had your treat and you feel complete...right....right?! Lol.

Dance/Sandy - if you do take a trip here I would LOVE to meet up. That would be so much fun. Sandy has family here in Orlando so maybe she can come by and we can grab a healthy lunch or take a walk around this beautiful local park called Lake Eola. Let me know girls.

Ok, I am seriously feeling ill and would not be surprised if I left work today, so just in case I dont log in later, you guys know why. Good luck girls...stick with the program, we are halfway through the week.

WE ARE WOMEN, HEAR US ROAR!!! Meow....lol

Thanks for the extra push, Lindy! I really didn't feel like getting on the elliptical and now I'm going to go do it.

Staccie - I'm so happy for you right now - you are just doing great and your sense of well-being completely comes through in your post. Keep it going!

Burgundy - Oops on the ice cream! Glad you have an on plan day scheduled today - come back and tell us how it went on the eating front.

Today's plan is elliptical and slightly higher calorie level (1600-1700) to keep my metabolism from stalling. I'm planning on raisin bran and fruit for breakfast, chicken satay with brown rice and veggies at Whole Foods for lunch and my bf and I are walking to the sushi place by his house tonight so that should make it fairly easy to make good choices.

Off I go to the guest bedroom and the dreaded elliptical ; )

Dance - I just had sushi for lunch, it was delicious. Obsviously my belly ache went away, otherwise I wouldnt have attempted sushi. Today is another low calorie day, 1300, so far Im at 800 and doing well. I saved tomorrow for a high calorie, 1600 day because I have to bring my Grandma to bingo and wont get home till 11 at night. so that leaves me with more "awake" time and possibility of munching.

Anyway, Ill touch base later.

Ok, challenges, challenges, challenges.....this is what I am dealing with today. Ugh! Ok, I know I should appreciate the very kind gesture of my husband, daughter-in-law and son, but I am soooo trying to lose weight. This morning they left very early for the farmers market, and I being tired - slept. My plan was to wake up and workout. Well, by 9am they were back and presenting me with breakfast in bed. An egg, sausage and cheese omelet, buttery grits, biscuits and a large milk. Oh my! Of course I ate, because it was sooo sweet, but there goes my calories and probably my day. I love food like that, but it so messes up my focus and day, because then I just want to eat all day. Damn!

Needless to say I did go out and walk, but little did it do. I didn't go as far or put alot of effort into - could be all the food????

Lindy - I agree this summer has been really nice so far. There are days when it is like muggy and yucky, but for the most part, especially this last week it has been awesome. I love sitting outside in the morning and early evenings with the breeze and wonderful temperatures.

Tiff - Gosh so awesome to hear from you and to know all of your blessings are coming right at you! New house, new marriage, new health! I am just so happy for you. I look forward to when you are on here full force again!

Staccie - Good for you and your workouts. I am amazed at the hours you are putting in at work and still hitting the gym! Awesome! What do you do for work by the way?

Burgund - Yummmy ice cream! I am sure you kick in your metabolism to make the ice cream burn off. If not, Jillian will do that for you today! LOL... I am proud of you getting back on track though. Hey maybe have the 3 year old do the 30DS with you? LOL....he would probably take a much needed nap afterwards!

Ok, I just realized maybe part of my problem in Tom coming this weekend! I just realized the dates, which now explains my weird eating patterns lately and the fat feeling I am having. The things we girls put up with!

Ok, I am signing off for now. Have a great day everyone.

LOLOLOL......Love it Lindy, 'hear us roar.....meow'. Very funny!!!!!

Hi everyone!

I am cramming in a few min to come and read and write. I've had a crazy morning already and tonight is my work late night. I had such a hard time getting up today - was so tired but I am feeling a lot better now.

Well it's a half hour later and I am still writing this post. Geez :)

Sandy - damn TOM!!! It was a sweet gesture, just try to take it easy. Remember on Monday, I started my morning out with a McDonalds breakfast? Well the rest of the day I took it REALLY easy. Borderline starving but by Tuesday, I was back on track, the hunger subsided and this whole week I have done well. Yay me!

Stacie - it was a good effort you put in, lol. There will be days where not everyone can log on, as long as you continue to hold youself accountable whether you post or not, you will see that scale drop on Sunday. Good luck with the rest of day, I look forward to seeing how the long day went and what food choices you made.

Ok, so I did the sushi thing for lunch, for dinner I am having a grilled chicken field greens salad with this all natural mango dressing I bought at the farmers market, it has like 20 calories for 3 tablespoons and taste so freakin good, yes...freakin good, lol. Have a good night ladies, I dont think I am going to have time to post later.

mygrits - That's a tough start to the day when you're trying to stick to a plan. Curious to hear how the rest of the day goes and good for you for getting out and trying to walk even when you don't feel like it.

Staccie - Of course you're exhausted - you work such long hours. Hang in there kiddo - you're doing great.

Lindy - Sounds like you are having a great food day and have allowed for some flexibility tomorrow with your grandmother. Nicely done!

I found some exercises that are supposed to help with these kind of knee issues (they call it 'runner's knee' which makes me sound like someone who might actually go fast which is not the case) so that's good but I imagine it takes a while for them to work and patience is not exactly my strong suit. I'll give it a shot though and will plug away on the elliptical in the meantime.

Will post later on overall eating for today but so far so good.

Well, I had been doing so well, I knew it was just a matter of time before I "slipped." Had pizza tonight for dinner, wasn't the smartest move since WW is tomorrow, but what can you do? I think again, it's because I didn't work out this week. Ok, here we go:

Breakfast: Sweet & Salty Bar
Snack: Kashi bar
Lunch: 6 inch oven roasted chix breast sub from Subway
Snack: So ravenous today, that three hours later, I ate the other half! :(
Dinner: Pizza (with mushrooms/spinach), healthier than the pepperoni I usually get!

I didn't work out today either, I am hosting a bbq at the house early on Saturday, so I have to get the house in order, and I wiill have no time on the weekdays due to work, so the only time is at night. I probably won't make it until the weekend, but housework is a workout right?!? Just not as much as the workout I woulda done.

Oh well, hop back on that wagon! You are all doing so well. Staccie, you have great determination to get the workout done after a long day of work. I have no idea how you do it.

Tomorrow will be a better day.

TOM is coming!!! Cravings are horrible. And I am so tired. And so much work to do :( sorry for the complaining. I am figuring that a small ice cream is ok but if I go to the mall to get one, I risk binging on everything so I think I will skip it.

Someone asked me what I did for a living - I am in venue management for the Olympic Winter Games. We are 8 months away but it's crazy busy. No reprive it seems. But I am one week and one day clean (if that's what you want to call it). Keep me strong through TOM (umph that rhymes).

I haven't eaten much today - yogurt, a hamburger with some salad and that's it :( I have to find a way to ensure that I make myself eat throughout the day.

Dance - sorry about your knee...that's my fear about running. I did try and run a bit on the TM last night and I was very winded after less than a mile going slow but I worked up such a good sweat so I might try to do a bit more.

Sorry that's all I got tonight...talk to you all tomorrow :)

S

Morning ladies -

Well, I did it, I stuck to my program yesterday and am extremely happy that I did so. In fact, after work I had to pick up Gabriella from her cousins house which is like 30 minutes away from where we live, then we had to go to Kmart to return some curtains I bought, by that time it was like 7 p.m., so Gab was hungry so I swung by McDonalds to get her a Cheeseburger and fries and......drum roll please.....I didnt get a thing! I wasnt even tempted a little bit! Its amazing! I am very happy about this. When I got home I did have 2 chicken legs, no skin, no sauce, just plain chicken and that was it...go me....go me. I do think I am retaining water though today from my sushi yesterday because I feel SO bloated. I also woke up this morning, fought going to the gym but went, gave a half a$$ workout and left after 25 minutes. In fact, I think I only burned like 100 calories, lol...that was a waste. I also pushed myself to go on my walk and once again...did not push myself. Oh well, at least I went. The bingo thing is tonight and it is going to be hard for me. They have a snack bar with everything and when you are sitting there for like 4 hours (uh...yeah, 4 flippin hours stamping a paper card, lol)...your bored and want to eat. If I can do this and not cheat today, I will consider this a great achievement. I have no intentions of doing the gym tomorrow because I wont get in until 11 p.m., but I do plan on going on Saturday to keep with my goal of 5 days of exercise. I also plan on walking tomorrow, so thats good. Ok, sorry for babbling girls, I guess Im feeling very chatty today.

Vicky - ok, so you had pizza...how many slices is the question? Yup...you bet Im holding you accountable. Haha. BBQ this weekend, awesome. Gabriella is doing her bday party this weekend, normally I would easily drop $400.00 into her party between food, water slides, party favors, etc...I know, crazy. This year we are just doing cake with a large family meal. But I told her I would make it up to her with an awesome bday present, in which I did - I got her a motorized scooter (for her age group). Anyway, make sure your good at your bbq. I know, its hard. Maybe you can make some chicken skewers for you? I LOVE chicken skewers, its like my favorite thing to eat that is healthy. I make mine like so: Chicken, onion, red pepper, mushroom, squash and pineapple. Yum....:drooling:

Stacie - I am so super proud of you! You acknowledged your temptation and barrelled through it! Instead of going to the mall for your ice cream, you passed because you were worried about the temptation of other mall foods...so cool, big kudos to you! It wont always be like that, just in the beginning. Have you even had skinny cow ice cream bars? You can buy them in the grocery store and they are so darn creamy and good, I love to eat them even when Im not on a diet.

Ok, I think I have taken up half the page with my long post. Ill talk to you guys later. Oh, today is a 1600 calorie day. I have consumed 550 for my extremely large breakfast but the rest of my day is planned out so I dont go past 1600, wish me luck.

By the way...I updated my goal ticker. Its a bit ambitious but Im prepared for the challenge.

Also - NEESY!!! WHERE THE HECK ARE YOU?! lol.

Morning, ladies! Stuck to plan yesterday as one of my higher cycling days at 1670, but mainly lots of chicken, fish and veggies and this morning am down to 182 (2lbs down since Sunday). I just wish I had started this a long time ago and am kind of embarrassed that I've wasted so much time being heavy, avoiding photos, not liking myself, etc. Do you guys ever feel that way?

So report for yesterday: Eating 1670 cal Exercise 30 min elliptical

Plan for today: 1400 cal and 45 min elliptical. And some casual roller blading in the park tonight, nothing major but better than the alternative of sitting there snacking in front of tv : )

Lindy - good luck at Bingo - can you bring some apple slices or some baby carrots to munch on instead? And way to show major restraint at McDonalds!

Staccie - way to go on the treadmill - good for you! I hope you can get the cravings under control - does extra protein help at all?

Maddiesmom - Sounds like the pizza was an oops but you're back on the wagon. Totally agree on the eating better when you exercise - I'm exactly the same.

Keep on truckin...

Dance - yes..totally! I have been hanging out with my friends more and naturally we get camera friendly and take LOTS of pics and I look at myself now and feel better, then I think...why didnt I do this a long time ago. I feel better, look better and overall, Ive improved my confidence significantly...imagine that! Ha.

Anyway, I can bring those things but Im bringing something close. 2 small turkey burgers for dinner, a big bowl of watermelon and a fiber one bar. That should work for me. Lets hope. Im really hungry today for some reason so I just have to focus. I am also extremely tired. I wish I didnt have to do the bingo thing because I would really just like to go home and sleep.

Hi all,

Well TOM is here and I am tired, moody and crampy. I did have some ice cream last night at Wendy's (a frosty) but I didn't have a hamburger, fries, etc - I had some chicken and rice instead - so again in the past I may have gone all out but this time I allowed a bit but didn't go overboard.

However because I had that ice cream, I had a hard time going to sleep - sugar rush I guess - I was laying there wide awake but completely unmotivated to do anything else. Today I have had a few gingerbread cookies in my meeting but I am staring at my lunch with disdain, fortunately I am not hungry like a maddened cow (TOM) but not eating means I might binge later so I will eat it I suppose - grrrr. Not sure I will make the gym today - I might have to go to bed really early. But we will see.

Lindy - good on you for not indulging at McDonalds!! Woo hoo, feels good heh? And thanks for being proud - that means ALOT!!!!

Vicky - thanks - it's tough but I so not an early bird so I don't have much choice - saying that though - I did really well when I was working out in the mornings a few years ago and probably worked harder - but I will maybe get on that in a few weeks when I condition my body and mind a bit more :)

Dance - oh yeah the pictures and the thoughts - why have I wasted so much of my life feeling and being unhealthy. I often do that but then I remind myself that I can't do anything about the past but I can certaintly change the future which I am trying to do everyday :) I used to rip up and/or hide those pictures but I hang on to them now. Not to say that I select what pictures say - go on my facebook per say lol. You know when you only take face shots, or hide behind something, turn to the side, suck in, blah blah. It will be nice when I don't have to do that anymore. For now those pictures do not get uploaded and/or they get untagged pretty darn quick. The best thing though is taking pictures with hardly anything on every once inawhile and then seeing the change next time - that is awesome.

Well I gotta go back to work. I am liking that I am making time to come on here and interact with you wonderful ladies!! That is a big step for me (even though my posts sometimes take an hour to write) - lol.

Hope you all have a great day :)

S

Ugh...I dont know what is going on with my body but it feels like it is shutting down. I dont know if Im coming down with something or what but I am not feeling hot. Its weird, I feel tired and dizzy. If this continues, I will definately have to take a trip to the doctor because obviously, this is not normal. I can deal with the tiredness, although I dont really get it because I get PLENTY of sleep but the dizziness...thats scary. I indulged at work and had 5 Starbursts. That is 100 calories, which puts me at 1000 for today, not too shabby. I have 600 more to burn through tonight for dinner and Im having turkey burgers for 300 calories, which leaves me with 300 for snacks. I swear, losing weight is making me a mathemetician. Lol.

Ok...good night ladies. I hope everyone is holding up ok. Remember...we WEIGHT IN ON SUNDAY, that is only 3 days away, if you have cheated this week, its time to buckle down...lets do it. :)

Staccie - Sounds like you're figuring out a way to have a small treat and be satisfied with that which is great, and especially so during such a stressful time for you. Hope the rest of the day goes okay!

Lindy - Poor you - hope the dizziness went away and that you're feeling well enough to deal with Bingo night. And it sounds like you have a great food plan for tonight.

Hi Everyone,

Well, first of all, Lindy I am so sorry your not feeling well. :( I hope your not coming down with something. I hate it when I have dizziness. I get that way on ocassion when my hormones are haywire. Please rest and I hope your up :dancer: and around feeling good tomorrow.

Well today sucked - sorry, but it's true. :ink: Tom is coming and I am just totally out-of-wack. I not eating horrible, just too much........LOL......I think there's a difference.... Anyway, I went ahead and weighed myself today, even though I was scared to death because I haven't in several days since I have been......oh so bad. I have gained but only a couple of pounds which did surprise me, as I thought it might be more since I feel 'puffy' with Tom coming. Tomorrow I WILL workout and get back on track -:ebike: I WILL!

Ok, I'm done rambling and venting. :D I am so proud of all of you though. Sticking with your plans, working out and staying accountable. You guys ROCK!!! :cheer3::cheer2:

Till tomorrow.

Lindy: Feel better soon. I can handle being sick here and there, but the dizziness is always the worst!

Sandy: I am with you! I went to WW today at work (down .8 lbs, which surprises me considering my pizza binge last night, but I'll take it!) and I ate well until the afternoon. I don't know what it was, but I was ravenous. I made smarter choices, had a snack of low fat pretzels, then strawberries. Got home still starving (and after drinking a ton of water). I had a serving of garden vegetable triscuit crackers, then had baked Lays with Madeline. Dinner was a Lean Cuisine and a 3/4 cup of mac and cheese. I don't know if all of us ladies are on the same cycle, but maybe I'm on the TOM train as well.

I've been running around the house like a mad woman, touching up the paint, cleaning, etc. etc. for this bbq on Saturday. I'm telling you, I'll be glad when it's over!

Have a great night!

Mygrits - totally hear you on the eating healthy, just too much. That's been an issue for me lots! Come back and give us the scoop tomorrow - let the whole peer pressure thing push you in a good way : )

Maddiesmom - way to handle the munchies!

Not bad today for me:
Eating:1330 cal
Exercise: 45min elliptical, 1hr rollerblading at slower pace

Hope everyone's hanging in there!

Hey girls...ok I have 2 bits of good news and then some bad news. Here it goes:

I did amazing at bingo last night (eating wise), I was STARVING and did not go to the snack bar at all. The only thing is I did indulge in a diet coke...big whoop, lol. The only reason I did was to "curb" my desire to snack.

Two - I am feeling better. Thanks for everyones concern. What I think it was was that I NEVER make coffee, seriously... I know you read that I drink coffee sometimes and for the most part, I really dont like the taste of coffee, it kinda repulses me but it does regulate me and keep me full, so I drink it occasionally for that reason (or a caffeine boost). Anyway, I took the liberty of making my coffee yesterday and what I didnt know is that you are NOT supposed to do one scoop of coffee for every cup of water - STOP LAUGHING!!! Lol...I know...I make a terrible housewife, lol. Point of the story is...I think my body went in shock from all the caffeine and thats what happened.

Ok, heres the bad part...I woke up this morning and it has just been "OFF". I slept in and skipped the gym, then I walked out into my livingroom where one of my dogs was sick with um...well...WARNING***WARNING***if you are eating while reading this, please pass this section - vomit and poop...and lots of it! So I cleaned it up, the smell is still rancid, blah.:tied: So, it starts like that. Then I decide to go for my walk where I get halfway and it starts POURING, not raining...POURING. To make matters worst, I was wearing a white tank top, oh - those lucky guys driving by on the main road, lol. So, yes...after all that, I decide to go and get buscuits and gravy for breakfast. Ahhh...there is this place around the corner that makes the most amazing biscuits and gravy I have ever tasted in my life. So, I eat 3-yes 3! biscuits and gravy (did I mention I requested EXTRA gravy), and then I decide to wash that down with a large chocolate milk. Oh Nicole...Nicole...Nicole, tisk-tisk. So now I sit here, plump as a pig typing this. The rest of the day MUST be a light day. The good thing is, if I ever eat a big breakfast, I never feel TOO bad because I burn it off the rest of the day and usually have the self discipline to stick to leaner meals the rest of the day.

Ok, sorry...long post, I know.

Anyway - Mygrits, you were doing so well, it was just a matter of time before your body started to crave some extra food, which is normal. Just keep in mind before you beat yourself up that last time this happened, it got you over your plateau hump and you started losing big time again, lets home this is the same case. By the way, your little bicycle guy was so cute, it made me laugh for some reason.

Dance - how is your knee injury? Are those exercises working for you? Thanks again for your encouragement. It means a lot to me.

Vicky - just think of all the calories (maybe that pizza), you are burning off by doing all that work around the house. Despite my crazy morning, I am in an excellent mood today and look foward to going home and doing some major cleaning.

Ok, I think I have babbled enough, Ill check in shortly.

Lindy - what a morning! Hope the rest of the day goes smoothly. Too funny that the mysterious ailment was a major caffeine buzz. I absolutely hate that hyped up jittery anxious feeling if I make the mistake of having too much coffee on an empty stomach. The knee's doing okay since I'm taking a break from running but I hope these exercises work quickly or I may go stir crazy. Once you get addicted to a runner's high, nothing else quite does it for you : )

Plan for today: 1500 cal, no exercise as it's a rest day and the weekend will be full of activity (rollerblading Sat, long hike Sun).

Hope everyone else is doing well and getting ready for weigh-ins!

Ok, so heres the deal with today, it got worst. After my blowout breakfast I had a redbull for lunch with a pack of sweettarts and these sour airhead candy things. Isnt funny how I posted earlier saying that I was disciplined? Ha! I have to go home and do a complete overhall on my floors so Im hoping I burn some calories there. I feel SO FULL and super bloated. I have drank plenty of water today, 9 glasses so far but I think I need to drink more because the biscuits and gravy were LOADED with sodium. Ugh, why.

Anyway...Im going home shortly so I probably wont check back in until tomorrow or even Sunday, depending how busy I am...we'll see. Good luck to everyone over the next couple of days, lets buckle down for the SUNDAY WEIGH IN.

Take care.

Ok...I just have to touch on this, I'd love to hear everyone elses thoughts. There is a new show that I was just watching called "Dance Your A$$ Off" and it is extremelt disturbing. I know...this is coming from a big herself and actually, some of the girls on the show weigh what I started at, so here is my whole thought on this. First - oh my, they are the same size as me and they look big (I mean big), its funny because Im sitting there going, omg...is this me and I just think I look better? Do I not think thats how I look? Scary. Next, I like the concept behind the show but must they dress them in those skimpy outfits, many of which show their bellys? It looks horrible. It really makes me rethink my 2 piece bikini. Idk...I may be ticking some people off with this post but if any of you have seen it, I would love to hear your thoughts.