Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
I think that I would rather call this "home" as well... Its nice to see the boards super busy, but I can only ready some of the same questions a couple of times!! Hope that doesn't sound too harsh!

This is why we initially moved here. READ THE STICKIES ALREADY! ;)

Oh, and I meant that to those asking the same questions, not you. lol

Originally Posted by Busymomx4:
Was thinking the same thing...seems like it was me just yesterday, lol

WEll I am glad that I am not the only one... I figured that I would just check in every once and a while,

I posted this in the Maintainers thread but thought it'd be helpful to know for those of you who may think of starying....

Just had an eye opening moment. I was drinking my choc shake heated up and eating my steamed broccoli/cauliflower at lunch and I told my hubby how much I missed it. (We eat lunch together everyday.) He says, "you know what I miss? I miss the wife who didn't complain of head aches and wasn't tired all the time." He's right! I have been having the worst headaches and "spinny" stomach and it's been about the last 2 or 3 weeks. Funny that that is when I started going off the deep end. I feel fine when I have a "cheat" here and there and get right back to it but I can't do it days on end or I just feel bogged down and my headache never seems to go away. *I know cheat days aren't promoted in the first few phases but I had a few and was still losing a little towards the end because after 5 months or so it's the only way I could keep myself going sometimes. It wasn't much and it wasn't often.*

So, I know these first few days are going to suck royally and the heachaches will only get worse before they get better but it's so worth it. Maybe this time when I phase off I will remember that so I can keep the weight off!

How y'all are? I'm back to finish what I started. I'm so glad I phased off when I did. My body needed a recovery period......and now it's ready to slide into home.

What happened to the last 6 weeks? The time between Thanksgiving and New Year's is a blur. I gained 7 pounds during Phase 3 and then there was another 2-3 pounds that kept fluctuating during maintenance. I did not go crazy with food but I did step off the beaten path a few too many times. When I think about the things that I DID pass by, I can pat myself on the back. I think I handled the holidays very well. This was a great reality check for me….I (once again) see just how sensitive I am to carbohydrates. I was going to wait until the end of January to get back on plan but the way my tummy felt in my favorite jeans on New Year’s Eve was enough to make me move things forward. 3 days OP and I have already lost 6.5 pounds of fluid…..and I feel fantastic. My yoga instructor is also back OP…..In last night’s class we were both bouncing off the walls. I love ketosis!

I also now see that my goal weight has to be much lower than previously expected and I’m banking on being in Maintenance by the first part of April. I need a few weeks of “M” before the two weeks of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (aka Jazz Fest) towards the end of April and then my son’s wedding is May 11th. I have my jewelry but am back and forth between two different dresses. As of right now both “fit” with a little room for weight loss…but I can see alterations being made come April 1. And no, I will not wait until then to begin looking for a dress.

Looking forward to catching up with all the rebooters. My mind is set. I’m happy and ready to wear Size 8 jeans.

Originally Posted by gettinmygrooveback:
How y'all are? I'm back to finish what I started. I'm so glad I phased off when I did. My body needed a recovery period......and now it's ready to slide into home.

What happened to the last 6 weeks? The time between Thanksgiving and New Year's is a blur. I gained 7 pounds during Phase 3 and then there was another 2-3 pounds that kept fluctuating during maintenance. I did not go crazy with food but I did step off the beaten path a few too many times. When I think about the things that I DID pass by, I can pat myself on the back. I think I handled the holidays very well. This was a great reality check for me….I (once again) see just how sensitive I am to carbohydrates. I was going to wait until the end of January to get back on plan but the way my tummy felt in my favorite jeans on New Year’s Eve was enough to make me move things forward. 3 days OP and I have already lost 6.5 pounds of fluid…..and I feel fantastic. My yoga instructor is also back OP…..In last night’s class we were both bouncing off the walls. I love ketosis!

I also now see that my goal weight has to be much lower than previously expected and I’m banking on being in Maintenance by the first part of April. I need a few weeks of “M” before the two weeks of the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (aka Jazz Fest) towards the end of April and then my son’s wedding is May 11th. I have my jewelry but am back and forth between two different dresses. As of right now both “fit” with a little room for weight loss…but I can see alterations being made come April 1. And no, I will not wait until then to begin looking for a dress.

Looking forward to catching up with all the rebooters. My mind is set. I’m happy and ready to wear Size 8 jeans.

I must be super carb sensitive too since I gained 13! Hope I have the luck you have with it dropping back off.

I can't wait to see the dress you pick! You will look fab.

I want to finally get out of these 9/10 jeans and make it to the 6s soon! When I told my friend I was back on phase 1 today she said she needs to too because she couldn't even button her jeans today. I'm glad my clothes still fit me and I haven't had to go without doing a button. I did measure this morning and have gained a few inches overall but not too shabby. That's kinda what makes me think it's a lot of water weight.

Oh I love seeing the people that did the journey with me. HI Linsey & Gettingmy grooveback!

I felt great that after phasing off in November and then went into maintenance and them ate what I wanted for 2-4 weeks, my weight was only up 2 lbs and that is already gone after day 5 of phase I. I am feeling better today than yesterday and the hunger isn't as consuming. lol. I think I am slipping back into ketosis. Yeah!

So, Lets Go Girls! I will be on phase I (I am predicting), until at least April, as I am slow loser, but that's ok, because I didn't gain (even lost a little) in phase 3 and didn't gain in 4, it was only when I went WILD with wine slushies, cheese & crackers, rum cake, egg nog, and every kind of Christmas cookie and fudge know to mankind that I gained 2 lbs. For one thing, I really couldn't eat anywhere near the volume I could before, same with drinking. I could only stomach 2 drinks per outing. Well, I will check in later tonight, I am out to dinner with girlfriends to celebrate my Birthday (not really until the 7th) and then off to knitting. YEAH ME :)

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
I must be super carb sensitive too since I gained 13! Hope I have the luck you have with it dropping back off.

I can't wait to see the dress you pick! You will look fab.

I want to finally get out of these 9/10 jeans and make it to the 6s soon! When I told my friend I was back on phase 1 today she said she needs to too because she couldn't even button her jeans today. I'm glad my clothes still fit me and I haven't had to go without doing a button. I did measure this morning and have gained a few inches overall but not too shabby. That's kinda what makes me think it's a lot of water weight.

You will do just fine. You know what you need to do to lose the weight. Excess fluid is the first to go. I had a bad headache yesterday afternoon and then I "switched tanks".......slept like a baby last night too. Today, no headache or hunger. I hope to be at my last known low weight and in fat loss mode next week. Let's make sure our heads are screwed on right, stay OP, don't stress, exercise, get good rest and above all else, be proud and happy.

If I get motivated (and really feeling good)...I'll take photos in my dresses and jewelry. Perhaps some input from afar will help me decide.:)

Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
I think that I would rather call this "home" as well... Its nice to see the boards super busy, but I can only ready some of the same questions a couple of times!! Hope that doesn't sound too harsh!

Hey Jelly! Did you just change your goal? Like 'JUST'?? I am always checkin' out tickers lol and really just checked you out last night (the back and forth we did lol)

Originally Posted by Bellamack:
Oh I love seeing the people that did the journey with me. HI Linsey & Gettingmy grooveback!

I felt great that after phasing off in November and then went into maintenance and them ate what I wanted for 2-4 weeks, my weight was only up 2 lbs and that is already gone after day 5 of phase I. I am feeling better today than yesterday and the hunger isn't as consuming. lol. I think I am slipping back into ketosis. Yeah!

So, Lets Go Girls! I will be on phase I (I am predicting), until at least April, as I am slow loser, but that's ok, because I didn't gain (even lost a little) in phase 3 and didn't gain in 4, it was only when I went WILD with wine slushies, cheese & crackers, rum cake, egg nog, and every kind of Christmas cookie and fudge know to mankind that I gained 2 lbs. For one thing, I really couldn't eat anywhere near the volume I could before, same with drinking. I could only stomach 2 drinks per outing. Well, I will check in later tonight, I am out to dinner with girlfriends to celebrate my Birthday (not really until the 7th) and then off to knitting. YEAH ME :)

Hi Bella...and a very happy early birthday greeting to you! I am glad to be back and very happy to know that we will be finsihing our journey together.

And we are all still waiting to see a photo of you! :-)

Originally Posted by Bellamack:
Oh I love seeing the people that did the journey with me. HI Linsey & Gettingmy grooveback!

I felt great that after phasing off in November and then went into maintenance and them ate what I wanted for 2-4 weeks, my weight was only up 2 lbs and that is already gone after day 5 of phase I. I am feeling better today than yesterday and the hunger isn't as consuming. lol. I think I am slipping back into ketosis. Yeah!

So, Lets Go Girls! I will be on phase I (I am predicting), until at least April, as I am slow loser, but that's ok, because I didn't gain (even lost a little) in phase 3 and didn't gain in 4, it was only when I went WILD with wine slushies, cheese & crackers, rum cake, egg nog, and every kind of Christmas cookie and fudge know to mankind that I gained 2 lbs. For one thing, I really couldn't eat anywhere near the volume I could before, same with drinking. I could only stomach 2 drinks per outing. Well, I will check in later tonight, I am out to dinner with girlfriends to celebrate my Birthday (not really until the 7th) and then off to knitting. YEAH ME :)

You are lucky! I gained 2.2 pounds in both weeks of phase 3! I thought that was crazy and then kinda just went "hog" wild. I didn't touch water the whole time either. I couldn't believe the 13 pound gain. Scares me a little.

Originally Posted by gettinmygrooveback:
You will do just fine. You know what you need to do to lose the weight. Excess fluid is the first to go. I had a bad headache yesterday afternoon and then I "switched tanks".......slept like a baby last night too. Today, no headache or hunger. I hope to be at my last known low weight and in fat loss mode next week. Let's make sure our heads are screwed on right, stay OP, don't stress, exercise, get good rest and above all else, be proud and happy.

If I get motivated (and really feeling good)...I'll take photos in my dresses and jewelry. Perhaps some input from afar will help me decide.:)

I do know what I need to do and I will do it 100%!

I forgot to tell you I had my annual physical on Tuesday and my dr was out but the one I had was super impressed! They even showed me the "red flag" that pops up on the screen that said, "Patient has lost more than 24% body weight since last visit." That was April 1st! I was bummed about being up but I was 12.2 pounds more than my STARTING weight at that visit so it put things back into perspective for me.

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
I do know what I need to do and I will do it 100%!

I forgot to tell you I had my annual physical on Tuesday and my dr was out but the one I had was super impressed! They even showed me the "red flag" that pops up on the screen that said, "Patient has lost more than 24% body weight since last visit." That was April 1st! I was bummed about being up but I was 12.2 pounds more than my STARTING weight at that visit so it put things back into perspective for me.

Isn't it a great feeling to NOT be afraid of the scale at the doctor's office? You should be very proud!

I had my blood drawn just before Christmas.....15 vials to be exact., for my semi-annual testing. Still waiting for a phone call from the doctor's office to schedule my appointment to discuss. Can't wait to see my "numbers". I've had my blood pressure checked a few times. The last time was when I went in for a colonoscopy 3 weeks ago.....it was 110/68. And that was with me so anxious about the procedure. My nurse was like 'Wow...that pretty darn good". I just smiled. And when she asked my weight...I wasn't ashamed to say it out loud. BTW......I did not have ANY polyps. My doc was impressed with how healthy my colon looked. THAT was enough to validate my lifestyle choices.

Originally Posted by gettinmygrooveback:
Isn't it a great feeling to NOT be afraid of the scale at the doctor's office? You should be very proud!

I had my blood drawn just before Christmas.....15 vials to be exact., for my semi-annual testing. Still waiting for a phone call from the doctor's office to schedule my appointment to discuss. Can't wait to see my "numbers". I've had my blood pressure checked a few times. The last time was when I went in for a colonoscopy 3 weeks ago.....it was 110/68. And that was with me so anxious about the procedure. My nurse was like 'Wow...that pretty darn good". I just smiled. And when she asked my weight...I wasn't ashamed to say it out loud. BTW......I did not have ANY polyps. My doc was impressed with how healthy my colon looked. THAT was enough to validate my lifestyle choices.

The funny thing was the first thing that came out of the doctor's mouth was, "Are you doing Ideal Protein or one of those other all protein diets?" She said there are so many people on them right now. She had no concerns with it at all.

Originally Posted by Ishbel:
Hey Jelly! Did you just change your goal? Like 'JUST'?? I am always checkin' out tickers lol and really just checked you out last night (the back and forth we did lol)

I did... I figured I was sooo close to my original goal, And I am still not happy with how I look, mostly naked... I am noticing alot of lose hanging skin, thank goodness for control top pantyhose!!

Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
I did... I figured I was sooo close to my original goal, And I am still not happy with how I look, mostly naked... I am noticing alot of lose hanging skin, thank goodness for control top pantyhose!!

I hear ya on the skin, I decided that I lived for long enough being an extra fluffy gal that I can live the rest of my life with extra skin and be happy. Apparently it can take up to two years to 'catch up' but after 140 lbs there is no way it's going to totally catch up. But hey, no one knows what's under the clothes! LOL

The VIP doesn't care...he's so proud of me that his chest puffs up when someone comments on my loss in front of him. He likes to tell me that he's cheating on the old me with the new me. He quite freqently passes all the major tests LOL. So since he's not really worried about it, it makes me less worried about it.

Either way come March when I'm in mexico, I'll look better than ever in a swim suit even with the lose skin. I've already tried on some board shorts and the XL was too big so I'm going to buy some in Feb...already scoped out the tankini tops with underwire, it's just a matter of "when" I buy.

Originally Posted by Ishbel:
I hear ya on the skin, I decided that I lived for long enough being an extra fluffy gal that I can live the rest of my life with extra skin and be happy. Apparently it can take up to two years to 'catch up' but after 140 lbs there is no way it's going to totally catch up. But hey, no one knows what's under the clothes! LOL

The VIP doesn't care...he's so proud of me that his chest puffs up when someone comments on my loss in front of him. He likes to tell me that he's cheating on the old me with the new me. He quite freqently passes all the major tests LOL. So since he's not really worried about it, it makes me less worried about it.

Either way come March when I'm in mexico, I'll look better than ever in a swim suit even with the lose skin. I've already tried on some board shorts and the XL was too big so I'm going to buy some in Feb...already scoped out the tankini tops with underwire, it's just a matter of "when" I buy.

Thats soo Awesome! My BF tried to give me compliments but they are so cheesy I mainly just tell him to shut up. I also dont want to get comfortable with hearing them, because in the past thats when I allow myself to "cheat" So we will see. I am hoping that by June I will be on to maintenance. but ya never know. I did have a gain this week, that was I was retaining water like crazy, and most of that is all gone now! So I am hoping for a decent week this next week!

Yes, I'm quoting myself here, but:

"Phase 1 should have it's own stages. Just from reading this site and my own experience, I've found:
Stage 1: Excited to start, Day 1 is so hard!! Where is the recipe for Big Mac in a bowl? I'm starving, but made it through! Whew! Can I eat this or that? Which WF dressings are good? Everybody is figuring out how to do this diet and the site search isn't the easiest to figure out. I don't think anybody reads the first post of the Daily Chat. Expect newbies to go through 2-3 weeks of this stage at least. The more threads created, the better, Woohoo!
Stage 2: Getting everything figured out, settling into a routine. You know what you like and you know what you don't like. Most people are still losing high numbers on their WI's. All is well with Ideal Protein. Clothes are getting too big, people are experiencing NSVs all the time. People are feeling really good!
Stage 3: You are about 2 or 3 sizes or 15-20 lbs away from your goal. If you've been on IP for at least 3 months or so, you're starting to wonder how long you will have to keep doing this. You want to kick the scale when there is no loss or the loss is low. 2 -3 lbs? You dance out of your visit. You're starting to think about the next phases and wonder how in the world you will eat all of that breakfast on phase 3. You're scared because you are so used to your routine, but you start trying to figure it out. You start getting frustrated that nobody reads the first post on the Daily Chat thread. You get tired of trying to find your favorite thread because 20 new threads by the same new member were started during the same day. You think about kicking a puppy, but don't.
Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.

Disclaimer: This poster does not advise people to kick kittens or puppies. I only posted that to be funny and sarcastic.

I find myself currently in between stages 2 and 3. Hopefully that makes me experienced enough to join you guys in this thread."

I posted this in the previous Experienced Thread. All of you who agree probably belong here now. Welcome!

Originally Posted by Paint Lady:
Yes, I'm quoting myself here, but:

"Phase 1 should have it's own stages. Just from reading this site and my own experience, I've found:
Stage 1: Excited to start, Day 1 is so hard!! Where is the recipe for Big Mac in a bowl? I'm starving, but made it through! Whew! Can I eat this or that? Which WF dressings are good? Everybody is figuring out how to do this diet and the site search isn't the easiest to figure out. I don't think anybody reads the first post of the Daily Chat. Expect newbies to go through 2-3 weeks of this stage at least. The more threads created, the better, Woohoo!
Stage 2: Getting everything figured out, settling into a routine. You know what you like and you know what you don't like. Most people are still losing high numbers on their WI's. All is well with Ideal Protein. Clothes are getting too big, people are experiencing NSVs all the time. People are feeling really good!
Stage 3: You are about 2 or 3 sizes or 15-20 lbs away from your goal. If you've been on IP for at least 3 months or so, you're starting to wonder how long you will have to keep doing this. You want to kick the scale when there is no loss or the loss is low. 2 -3 lbs? You dance out of your visit. You're starting to think about the next phases and wonder how in the world you will eat all of that breakfast on phase 3. You're scared because you are so used to your routine, but you start trying to figure it out. You start getting frustrated that nobody reads the first post on the Daily Chat thread. You get tired of trying to find your favorite thread because 20 new threads by the same new member were started during the same day. You think about kicking a puppy, but don't.
Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.

Disclaimer: This poster does not advise people to kick kittens or puppies. I only posted that to be funny and sarcastic.

I find myself currently in between stages 2 and 3. Hopefully that makes me experienced enough to join you guys in this thread."

I posted this in the previous Experienced Thread. All of you who agree probably belong here now. Welcome!

very Well written out! LOL I had a couple chuckles out loud here at work!! I guess I would also still be in between 2-3 I have alot til my "goal" whatever that may be... but I have been on IP for almost 5 months!

Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.



Only thing you didn't add here is that you swear you are caught in a time warp and it it going onand on forever!! But I just realized that is what I thought was going to happen when I weighed 200 pounds so this is a better warp to be trapped in.

Jelly - I do that too
 

Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
Thats soo Awesome! My BF tried to give me compliments but they are so cheesy I mainly just tell him to shut up. I also dont want to get comfortable with hearing them, because in the past thats when I allow myself to "cheat" So we will see. I am hoping that by June I will be on to maintenance. but ya never know. I did have a gain this week, that was I was retaining water like crazy, and most of that is all gone now! So I am hoping for a decent week this next week!

Oh my gosh! I cannot figure out why I do this - went to the doc and had bloodwork done. It all came back PERFECT. The doc was amazed. Cholesterol was down 120 points, blood sugar was NON-diabetic - everything was just great! He told me he was impressed and said I looked great and to keep it up. The next day, I cheated for the very first time since I started in Sept. WTH?:?:

Originally Posted by Paint Lady:
Yes, I'm quoting myself here, but:

"Phase 1 should have it's own stages. Just from reading this site and my own experience, I've found:
Stage 1: Excited to start, Day 1 is so hard!! Where is the recipe for Big Mac in a bowl? I'm starving, but made it through! Whew! Can I eat this or that? Which WF dressings are good? Everybody is figuring out how to do this diet and the site search isn't the easiest to figure out. I don't think anybody reads the first post of the Daily Chat. Expect newbies to go through 2-3 weeks of this stage at least. The more threads created, the better, Woohoo!
Stage 2: Getting everything figured out, settling into a routine. You know what you like and you know what you don't like. Most people are still losing high numbers on their WI's. All is well with Ideal Protein. Clothes are getting too big, people are experiencing NSVs all the time. People are feeling really good!
Stage 3: You are about 2 or 3 sizes or 15-20 lbs away from your goal. If you've been on IP for at least 3 months or so, you're starting to wonder how long you will have to keep doing this. You want to kick the scale when there is no loss or the loss is low. 2 -3 lbs? You dance out of your visit. You're starting to think about the next phases and wonder how in the world you will eat all of that breakfast on phase 3. You're scared because you are so used to your routine, but you start trying to figure it out. You start getting frustrated that nobody reads the first post on the Daily Chat thread. You get tired of trying to find your favorite thread because 20 new threads by the same new member were started during the same day. You think about kicking a puppy, but don't.
Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.

Disclaimer: This poster does not advise people to kick kittens or puppies. I only posted that to be funny and sarcastic.

I find myself currently in between stages 2 and 3. Hopefully that makes me experienced enough to join you guys in this thread."

I posted this in the previous Experienced Thread. All of you who agree probably belong here now. Welcome!

This is fantastic!
I have been in all 4 stages....currently back in stage 2 for those darn last 10! Thanks for the laugh!

Originally Posted by Paint Lady:
Yes, I'm quoting myself here, but:

"Phase 1 should have it's own stages. Just from reading this site and my own experience, I've found:
Stage 1: Excited to start, Day 1 is so hard!! Where is the recipe for Big Mac in a bowl? I'm starving, but made it through! Whew! Can I eat this or that? Which WF dressings are good? Everybody is figuring out how to do this diet and the site search isn't the easiest to figure out. I don't think anybody reads the first post of the Daily Chat. Expect newbies to go through 2-3 weeks of this stage at least. The more threads created, the better, Woohoo!
Stage 2: Getting everything figured out, settling into a routine. You know what you like and you know what you don't like. Most people are still losing high numbers on their WI's. All is well with Ideal Protein. Clothes are getting too big, people are experiencing NSVs all the time. People are feeling really good!
Stage 3: You are about 2 or 3 sizes or 15-20 lbs away from your goal. If you've been on IP for at least 3 months or so, you're starting to wonder how long you will have to keep doing this. You want to kick the scale when there is no loss or the loss is low. 2 -3 lbs? You dance out of your visit. You're starting to think about the next phases and wonder how in the world you will eat all of that breakfast on phase 3. You're scared because you are so used to your routine, but you start trying to figure it out. You start getting frustrated that nobody reads the first post on the Daily Chat thread. You get tired of trying to find your favorite thread because 20 new threads by the same new member were started during the same day. You think about kicking a puppy, but don't.
Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.

Disclaimer: This poster does not advise people to kick kittens or puppies. I only posted that to be funny and sarcastic.

I find myself currently in between stages 2 and 3. Hopefully that makes me experienced enough to join you guys in this thread."

I posted this in the previous Experienced Thread. All of you who agree probably belong here now. Welcome!

Lol. It's like you were reading my mind! Thats great. I need 2 copy that out. Thanks for the laughs.

Originally Posted by Paint Lady:
Yes, I'm quoting myself here, but:

"Phase 1 should have it's own stages. Just from reading this site and my own experience, I've found:
Stage 1: Excited to start, Day 1 is so hard!! Where is the recipe for Big Mac in a bowl? I'm starving, but made it through! Whew! Can I eat this or that? Which WF dressings are good? Everybody is figuring out how to do this diet and the site search isn't the easiest to figure out. I don't think anybody reads the first post of the Daily Chat. Expect newbies to go through 2-3 weeks of this stage at least. The more threads created, the better, Woohoo!
Stage 2: Getting everything figured out, settling into a routine. You know what you like and you know what you don't like. Most people are still losing high numbers on their WI's. All is well with Ideal Protein. Clothes are getting too big, people are experiencing NSVs all the time. People are feeling really good!
Stage 3: You are about 2 or 3 sizes or 15-20 lbs away from your goal. If you've been on IP for at least 3 months or so, you're starting to wonder how long you will have to keep doing this. You want to kick the scale when there is no loss or the loss is low. 2 -3 lbs? You dance out of your visit. You're starting to think about the next phases and wonder how in the world you will eat all of that breakfast on phase 3. You're scared because you are so used to your routine, but you start trying to figure it out. You start getting frustrated that nobody reads the first post on the Daily Chat thread. You get tired of trying to find your favorite thread because 20 new threads by the same new member were started during the same day. You think about kicking a puppy, but don't.
Stage 4: You have 10 lbs or less to lose from reaching your goal. You want to curse the scale because it barely budges from one week to the next. You can't wait to start the next phase because you want some variety back in your life. You're ready to move on and that "fun" day is sounding so darn wonderful, and at the same time, still really scary. You are thankful when you lose a whole pound and not just point something of a pound. You wonder if you set your goal weight correctly. What is it about that magic number you set out to reach? Maybe it's really too low, or maybe I need to lower it? Will I ever lose these last 10 lbs? Thank goodness no puppies are around to kick. You're sick of all the people in the daily chat posting about losing 10 lbs in a week. You don't care if they eat Big Mac in a bowl and liked it. You want to gouge your eyes out when you read about all the cheats and then the same person wonders why they "only" lost 5 lbs that week. Maybe you will kick a kitten in frustration.

Disclaimer: This poster does not advise people to kick kittens or puppies. I only posted that to be funny and sarcastic.

I find myself currently in between stages 2 and 3. Hopefully that makes me experienced enough to join you guys in this thread."

I posted this in the previous Experienced Thread. All of you who agree probably belong here now. Welcome!

Brilliant. Really enjoyed reading this again. My pet peeve? The people who say Well, I was a naughty girl. I ate blah, and blah, and blah. But what the heck, I lost 2 pounds. Or it's corollary: I think I'll have a cheat day. But I'll get right back on and it won't do any harm. :fr::fr::fr:

Well after one day of phase 1 I am down 2.6lbs. Hoping for a much larger number for my first week but super happy it's already going in the right direction.

Also, just looked at the calendar and TOM should be coming in the next couple of days. Lovely time to get back on phase 1! ;)

Blah. I couldn't seem to sleep decent last night. I am up way earlier than normal... I start my new job today. Same company. Just new position. $3 more an hour. Can't complain at all!! I was definitely ready for a change.of scenery!

Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
Blah. I couldn't seem to sleep decent last night. I am up way earlier than normal... I start my new job today. Same company. Just new position. $3 more an hour. Can't complain at all!! I was definitely ready for a change.of scenery!

I always get like that the night before a big day. You know, when you need the sleep the most! I get worried my alarm won't go off or something I think. Good luck! Gotta love the extra $3 an hour!

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
Well after one day of phase 1 I am down 2.6lbs. Hoping for a much larger number for my first week but super happy it's already going in the right direction.

Also, just looked at the calendar and TOM should be coming in the next couple of days. Lovely time to get back on phase 1! ;)

Yeah! Just stay on track. :carrot:

My scale was down another 2 this AM. Love it....

Happy Friday everyone!

TGIF everyone...seems like week is longer when you only have 4 days...

Paint Lady - LOVED your post...so true!

Originally Posted by JellyMae87:
Blah. I couldn't seem to sleep decent last night. I am up way earlier than normal... I start my new job today. Same company. Just new position. $3 more an hour. Can't complain at all!! I was definitely ready for a change.of scenery!

Congrats on more money, hopefully you will have a better work atmosphere!

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
I always get like that the night before a big day. You know, when you need the sleep the most! I get worried my alarm won't go off or something I think. Good luck! Gotta love the extra $3 an hour!

I do that too, always worried the alarm won't go off! Even when the kids have something where they can't be late, i don't sleep.

Have a great day!

I need new breakfast ideas before I go shopping on Sunday. I've been doing a vanilla shake in my coffee with a little bit of WF caramel since pretty much day 1. I drank a big cup of it before I got the flu and now (most days) it's a struggle getting it down. I used to LOVE it. I don't know if it was the flu or I'm just burnt out. Anyway, what do you have? I always have my bar at night so that's not an option. I also do a chocolate shake at lunch and I really don't want 2 of those every day but I may have to. Oh, and crap, I use alternatives so this may be hard to help me with. What do you do fro breakfast?

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
I need new breakfast ideas before I go shopping on Sunday. I've been doing a vanilla shake in my coffee with a little bit of WF caramel since pretty much day 1. I drank a big cup of it before I got the flu and now (most days) it's a struggle getting it down. I used to LOVE it. I don't know if it was the flu or I'm just burnt out. Anyway, what do you have? I always have my bar at night so that's not an option. I also do a chocolate shake at lunch and I really don't want 2 of those every day but I may have to. Oh, and crap, I use alternatives so this may be hard to help me with. What do you do fro breakfast?

tough one with alternates you don't have a lot of choices... okay so is it just the vanilla in you coffee you can't do or vanilla shake all together? have you tried to add flavors to your shake? I have added instant coffee to mine and like that, or you could try different SF davinci syrups, I go through a lot of syrup.... maybe that is why my weight loss isn't doing so good right now... but never mind about me. What products do you buy? and what are your options? can you get different drinks? I have tried some of the nashua drinks that are with splenda and they are not too bad... not great but.

Originally Posted by 2RIDEROLLERCOAST:
tough one with alternates you don't have a lot of choices... okay so is it just the vanilla in you coffee you can't do or vanilla shake all together? have you tried to add flavors to your shake? I have added instant coffee to mine and like that, or you could try different SF davinci syrups, I go through a lot of syrup.... maybe that is why my weight loss isn't doing so good right now... but never mind about me. What products do you buy? and what are your options? can you get different drinks? I have tried some of the nashua drinks that are with splenda and they are not too bad... not great but.

Well you see, I haven't tried the shake alone. I will do that tomorrow. I've always been content with the vanilla shake/coffee, chocolate shake, and bars from Atkins so that's what I stick to. I'm better off with routine. I have tried all the Atkins shakes and like them all but since this hasn't been an issue I've been stuck with these.

I don't like the fake taste of the syrups and have only been able to do the WF caramel for some reason. I guess I needed the coffee for my hint of caffiene each day but I could drink some green tea in the morning instead I suppose. Can I have truvia in phase 1? I was in phase 3 but never had to in phase 1 last time.

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
Well you see, I haven't tried the shake alone. I will do that tomorrow. I've always been content with the vanilla shake/coffee, chocolate shake, and bars from Atkins so that's what I stick to. I'm better off with routine. I have tried all the Atkins shakes and like them all but since this hasn't been an issue I've been stuck with these.

I don't like the fake taste of the syrups and have only been able to do the WF caramel for some reason. I guess I needed the coffee for my hint of caffiene each day but I could drink some green tea in the morning instead I suppose. Can I have truvia in phase 1? I was in phase 3 but never had to in phase 1 last time.

yes you can have truvia, do you use your 1 oz of skim milk a day then? If not maybe try finding the silk creamer in stores (or organic Valley creamer, also not in canada that I can find) ... they come in french vanilla and hazelnut I think, and are lower carb than the skim milk and I think if you just use an oz of that you will be fine. I want to try but haven't found the creamer in canada yet... that is a search I will be doing this weekend. If you don't like the syrups try the extracts, I use a little of the peppermint or almond in my drinks it just gives it enough of a change to help it go down sometimes. I also like my routine so it is hard to try new things, maybe that will be my goal this year Try new things. Like soy milk, or almond butter, or skydiving... who knows..

Originally Posted by 2RIDEROLLERCOAST:
yes you can have truvia, do you use your 1 oz of skim milk a day then? If not maybe try finding the silk creamer in stores (or organic Valley creamer, also not in canada that I can find) ... they come in french vanilla and hazelnut I think, and are lower carb than the skim milk and I think if you just use an oz of that you will be fine. I want to try but haven't found the creamer in canada yet... that is a search I will be doing this weekend. If you don't like the syrups try the extracts, I use a little of the peppermint or almond in my drinks it just gives it enough of a change to help it go down sometimes. I also like my routine so it is hard to try new things, maybe that will be my goal this year Try new things. Like soy milk, or almond butter, or skydiving... who knows..

Love the new pic! You look amazing. And no, I don't use the milk. I sometimes sub in 1oz of lowfat cheese though. I will just drink the shake on ice and have green tea when I'm done and see if I'm content. I only plan on doing phase 1 for 5 weeks and phase 2 for 5 weeks so I don't have a LONG time to get through this. I'm bummed though because it's been a staple. I'm sure I'll find something that works just as well. ;)

2Ride.......fantastic photo. You look amazing!

Thanks Ladies, that was my Glam pic that my friend who is a photographer took of me... thought I should update my pic for a change...

Originally Posted by 2RIDEROLLERCOAST:
Thanks Ladies, that was my Glam pic that my friend who is a photographer took of me... thought I should update my pic for a change...

Well girl, you just keep glamming it up! It suits you well. :-)

I got some of those pics coming up real soon.......

Hey Hey Everyone!

Home today, my shoulder is bothering me and it's travelling up into my neck and head. It felt like I had a brain freeze this morning...so since it's so early in the year and not everyone is back at work yet (resulting in no meetings) I called in and went back to bed. Currently in the dark...being on the computer seems 'ok' but I don't want to look outside into the bright world. UGH!

FYI - make sure as you lose weight to get proper bras. I'm pretty sure I did this to myself by getting a bra that was "good enough" to get me through the losses. Looking back, I should have spent the money on a really good bra (like that one I have right now)....I spent more then enough money on massages, it would have been cheaper to get a proper bra. Probably looking at acupuncture now...ugh!

(FYI I'm chesty anyway and haven't really lost a lot in the bust area (lots in the thorax though)...should have known better!)

...rant/whine is over for right now...can't guarantee it won't be back though! :D

Originally Posted by ItsAboutTime:
I need new breakfast ideas before I go shopping on Sunday. I've been doing a vanilla shake in my coffee with a little bit of WF caramel since pretty much day 1. I drank a big cup of it before I got the flu and now (most days) it's a struggle getting it down. I used to LOVE it. I don't know if it was the flu or I'm just burnt out. Anyway, what do you have? I always have my bar at night so that's not an option. I also do a chocolate shake at lunch and I really don't want 2 of those every day but I may have to. Oh, and crap, I use alternatives so this may be hard to help me with. What do you do fro breakfast?

I always have 1/2 chocolate shake in my coffee, tastes like a yummy mocha and i drink the other half or if i really need it (like this morning), i'll have another coffee with the other half, lol.

Originally Posted by Ishbel:
Hey Hey Everyone!

Home today, my shoulder is bothering me and it's travelling up into my neck and head. It felt like I had a brain freeze this morning...so since it's so early in the year and not everyone is back at work yet (resulting in no meetings) I called in and went back to bed. Currently in the dark...being on the computer seems 'ok' but I don't want to look outside into the bright world. UGH!

FYI - make sure as you lose weight to get proper bras. I'm pretty sure I did this to myself by getting a bra that was "good enough" to get me through the losses. Looking back, I should have spent the money on a really good bra (like that one I have right now)....I spent more then enough money on massages, it would have been cheaper to get a proper bra. Probably looking at acupuncture now...ugh!

(FYI I'm chesty anyway and haven't really lost a lot in the bust area (lots in the thorax though)...should have known better!)

...rant/whine is over for right now...can't guarantee it won't be back though! :D

Sorry you're not feeling well but glad you were able to stay home! Glad you got a good bra...i'm so the opposite of you that once i'm done with losing weight...i'll probably be ok with a training bra, lol.

Originally Posted by 2RIDEROLLERCOAST:
Thanks Ladies, that was my Glam pic that my friend who is a photographer took of me... thought I should update my pic for a change...

I know I said this in your pictures file, but this picture is really and truly wonderful. Now. If you could just get your friend to take a picture of you, in the same outfit, with the little ones as accessories. . . . ;)

It's About Time- Have you tried any other flavors? I'm using alternatives for my phase 1 days in maintenance. Atkins has a mocha latte shake that's ok, there is also a caramel flavored one, maybe it's a coffee tasting one too. EAS has a dark rich chocolate flavor that I bet would be really good to mix in your coffee for a mocha drink. Also, EAS has a strawberry flavor that tastes very much like strawberry Quik, I wouldn't add it to my coffee, but that's another option for breakfast.
I use 1 splenda and some 1/2 and 1/2 in my coffee. Less carbs than the skim milk. I have done this since beginning phase 3, still do it on phase 1 days.