Have had a few busy days, so I just skimmed everyone's posts.

Beth, I can't tell if he blocked you. He has posted a few times in the Alternatives group but the admins of the Love/Support group say they banned him. He seems to have settled down a little, though.
Gosh, I hate to hear about your job situation. :(

Jenny, great to see you! I tend not to have carbs at dinner, too - I much prefer to have some fruit at lunch or some crackers with my soup. I just don't usually crave potatoes or rice or bread at dinner. (Evening snack is a whole other story...) My daily carbs run about 160g, I think?

blue, as far as carb/fat separation, I don't get too fussed about it. I just am aware of certain carb/fat combos that get me into trouble, and avoid those. Things like biscuits and butter, or grilled cheese sandwiches, or potato chips.
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The car is at the body shop for the next couple of weeks. DH pulled out of an intersection into another car, so ours had front-end damage, and the air bag went off and the seat belt locked up. DH was a little stiff and sore, but the next morning he had a procedure to help his chronic back pain so with anesthesia he really didn't notice any after-effects from the wreck.

I'm still holding at 7 pounds over goal. With the nice weather, I've been walking 5-6 miles every day, but on our next rainy day, I'm going to the gym for the elliptical. I've pretty much decided that if I don't lose any weight this week, I'm just going to go back to P1 next Monday until the end of the month. With the trip to FL and then the cruise in May, I'm very paranoid about how badly things could get out of control if I don't reign it in soon. Not to mention those size 8 shorts that I planned to wear this summer!

I started BCAA supplementation this week, either during exercise or right after. Will let you know if I notice a difference. I'm using MusclePharm, watermelon flavor.

Hi all,

Busy week this week, lots of projects need to get done at work -- not getting very far at home.

HIS - I am glad to hear that you are getting some walking in. Sorry about DH and car :(. Sounds like you have a plan- hoping you see some movement this week. We are here to support you when you are having a rough time.

Blue - I guess my theory is that the fat / carb separation is to help us avoid foods that have both. I think french fries, donuts, etc. If you have to seperate these you could not eat them (expect for a "fun" day) Congrats on holding your weight. My thoughts as I transitions is to make one change at a time (for about a week or 2 to see how the body responds. If it responds negatively to back out that change and try something else. (Not sure this makes sense - but in my ketosis fogged mind it does)

Jenny - sounds like you are doing great -- Keep it up..

Beth - Sorry to hear about work. I remember you talking about wanting to look for something different earlier this year - maybe this is a little push (that being said - it is always nicer to do on your own terms). Will try to send good wishes your way.

MiWi - Congrats on the new nanny. Hope she is even better than your current. When do you move to P3?

Weigh in today and then begin phase off. Why is it that when you make a decision you then read things on FB that makes you wonder if you are doing the right thing. (many comments this week about the difficulty in going back to P1 and wishing they would have stayed on till goal). That being said I have considered that and I still want to move forward. I need to know that I can maintain at this weight and I want to move forward with biking in the summer. I thinking about the P1 alternative what I come back from vacation.

Have a great day.

Sue

Liana – Thanks, I know I’ve been overthinking the carb/fat thing. I do appreciate the menus, and got a few ideas there. I don’t have a problem in finding things to eat, though I do get into food-ruts (nothing new for me, I tend to eat the same things, then suddenly get a spurt to try new recipes, always been that way). It was just adding that extra carb at dinner, just to get the carb ratio up, even if I didn’t feel like eating a carb, that was causing concern.
So I’ll just not have it if I don’t want it. Try it for a week or two, keep tracking and see if it affects weight.

HIS – Scary accident, but so glad he wasn’t badly hurt, and isn’t feeling too bad after.
I hope the added exercise budges a few of those stubborn lbs. I remember in P1, when there were stalls, the advice was to change something. I think our bodies get used to the status quo. Maybe P1 for a couple of weeks might be a good idea, shake things up, you know. And it would be easier, especially now, before you get back to heavier exercise.

Sue – Good luck with the phase off. Don’t question your decision, you put a lot of thought into it.
Don’t pay too much attention to those people – and even so what if they’re right, and getting back to P1 may not be so easy ….but look what you’ve done so far, most people would say it hasn’t been easy. So no worries, you’ll get right back to it, and we’ll be here to cheer you on. And P1-alt will be so much easier, great idea imho, our northern summers are short enough, and you’ll feel so much better having fun with biking and such.

Off to see my coach shortly, she’s got me weighing in every 2 weeks , I’ll talk to her about the carb/fat thing. DH has a few errands this morning, so he’s going to drop me off, then meet me after and take me out for breakfast. Nice way to start the day

Liana - I won't lie, that post scares the doo-doo out of me for continuing maintenance ;) If I am reading it correctly, that day you had an additional 1,000 calories with exercise and ate -900 (1,500 of 2,400) :yikes:

HIS - :hug: glad your DH is ok and the car is repairable.
not trying to bring drama here from other places - but yes, a post on support and love that was deleted confirmed he definitely blocked me. Free world ;) Just an FYI - he was apparently PM'ing the admins over there, got really nasty - calling them ****'s,etc...and then was banned. I kind of think it is frightening he is a middle school teacher (if he's 'real' and not a troll - I just have a feeling, but could be wrong)...
Yes - please let us know how the BCAA supplements go - I will probably look it up, but how many calories in the one you chose?
I am feeling you on the reboot. Still hovering 6 / 7 #'s over goal too BUT I am starting to notice a change in clothes & pictures. Got my 'marathon photos' and don't know what to think...I was bundled up b/c of the cold/wind and they never catch you in your best pose but I think I look 'thicker'.
Doesn't help that I am bloated today, but was lax on water yesterday, still recovering, and ate a very salty dinner.

Sue - yes, I've felt like it's been time to move on. I think the discouraging part is that a management position I am qualified for opened up, but I was basically told to not bother applying for it b/c they wouldn't be hiring from the current employee-pool :( idk why or what that means, if anything.
We all need to do what is in our best interests - don't second guess, especially based on internet blather :)

Blue - hope your coach is able to allay your fears - again, imvho, if its not broke, don't fix it :)

Everyone is on edge right now so this isn't a great work place atmosphere

I am thinking about taking a day or two off next week to relax and get my $*!t together. I am contemplating sending my resume to a professional to look over and update. I don't know all the latest buzz words and think it would be worth the investment.

I also need to get my taxes done...I was going to work on it this weekend but its looking like we are going to have company. It's suppose to be wet, cold, and nasty - so ready for some decent weather...

Hi Everyone-just quickly checking in. I've been reading posts trying to keep up and all with everyone and everything. Just really crazy busy- doing fine (knock on wood) keeping my fingers, toes and eyes crossed. Scared when I see my peeps struggling- how long before it happens to me?? You are doing all the right stuff, yet....your bodies are fighting you- and I won't lie- it scares the schat out of me. HIS I'm glad your husband is ok! Beth-sorry about the work sitch. In the end you will wind up right where you are supposed to be-Sue-good luck with phasing off and Blue-don't be like me and overthink it too much- oh and I seem to have gotten through a couple of nights without letting the NBMonster invade my space...of course the Vanilla Almond is all gone...and not coming back in for a while...The PB and Sunflower seed are being eaten now and when they're gone, I'll reassess.... Gotta run, grabbed lunch on the fly and now it's time to throw myself back in to work.

PS hair appointment tonight.....if they do it (new hairdresser) the pink is goin in girls!!! and if it's not too expensive maybe a blue for autism on the other side

quote from hysteria_625 "Liana - I won't lie, that post scares the doo-doo out of me for continuing maintenance If I am reading it correctly, that day you had an additional 1,000 calories with exercise and ate -900 (1,500 of 2,400)"

No worries... I don't believe the calorie counts for any of the exercise in MFP, it's notoriously on the high side. If they were true, I'd weigh 10 lbs by now, lol.
I never actually look at the calorie counts, it's just that there isn't really a choice in MFP. I do make sure that the foods I choose in the lists are the real ones with all the macros & vitamin/mineral counts listed properly so that I can get a look at the three things that mainly concern me. Am I getting enough protein (but not too much so that I don't convert the excess via gluconeogenesis), am I keeping my carbs under control and what's my ratio to fats for that meal, am I keeping the sugars part of my carbs relatively low?

Destony: Yaaay, on the hair thing! We need a photo post!
I admire this lady's do... I saw it in a book & blog "Advanced Style" http://advancedstyle.blogspot.ca/
https://s-media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com...23a0df7c1d.jpg

Hi all -- Weigh in today down 3.8 # for 2 weeks. I think I am getting to a sticky weight again. (185 was what I got down too many years ago - mostly through exercise). Body Fat % is still above 40%, but I should be moving into the 30's next time.

Liana - Love the pic -- I don't think I could do that at least not now.

Destony - Glad to hear that you are doing well. I am sure the color looks great. Pics please.

Beth - "a management position I am qualified for opened up, but I was basically told to not bother applying for it b/c they wouldn't be hiring from the current employee-pool idk why or what that means, if anything. " . Beth if it is a position that you are interested in -- APPLY. There may be someone that is eyeing the job and trying to discourage competition. Hopefully they will at least give you an interview - which at a minimum would be great practice at a maximum it could land you a great job. (No downside that I can see)

Blue - how was your visit to the coach? I know I am making the correct decision for me. If you would have told me in November that I would be in the 180's and wearing some 12's I would have been satisfied. I am choosing to be satisfied.

Its been a busy week at work with several projects needing to be done. So long hours and lack of sleep. I am also trying to deplete my packet inventory so I don't have to move everything -- so my favorites are nearly gone :( - but I am spending less money.

I think it is time for bed. The good news is I am working only a mile from my current house tomorrow.

Sue

Hi All- The salon didn't have any pink, only green.... no bueno...so when I go for a trim, in about 6 weeks, we'll do it then. I swear I didn't chicken out this time. I let her do what she wanted, she foiled it -to her liking, she didn't like the way the other girl had done it, and she took the cut I had and lifted it and made it more- well- not so heavy- and I really like what she did- she even dried it right...I still like my hair fairly big...lol- I am a child of the 80's...Aqua Net was my friend! ;) Only downside- I didn't eat until about 830 last night- that's ok- scale is a couple of ounces up- but I am okay- I am pretty certain 99.9% sure that it's because of eating so late... and if you think I'm wrong, say so- it's all about learning for me. ☺
Sue, I will post some pics -if I can dry it right...lol- glad that you are working close to home. As long as you are happy- THAT'S what matters!!!!!!
Liana-Wish I had the courage to actually do that!!! She's rockin that color!
Beth I agree with Sue- apply- at least you'll get the interview experience to sharpen your interview skills-and I loved the post on "the book" with the rainbows ♥
Blue- how'd your visit go?
HIS-how are you feeling?
Okay- gotta fly- dryer just rang, and I gotta make the bed and then head downstairs for breaky and make lunch then hit the shower- TGIF- I've been awake since 3 and I am now ready for a nap.....OY- I hope Friday plays nice.....

Linda Yay for hair!!! Next time you'll get some pink. Cool!
Sue You go girl!!! That's great! Sticky weight or not, you are really rockin' it.
Liana That's a great picture!!! Wow! How awesome! Also thanks for your example meals. I am phasing off now so good to have in mind for the near future.
Beth Stressful times suck, but often time they are opportunities for better times in the future. I am sending positive thoughts to the Universe for you!!! I like your plan to relax. Enjoy your company. The taxes will get done. I am so spoiled. My DH does them as soon as the W-2s come out. We've already spent our tax return money!!!
blue Hope you had a good morning with your DH and your coach decreased some anxiety.
HIS Glad your DH is well. I hope you are feeling good and ready for more diverse exercise! Yay!

I am still OK on Phase 2. Still adding a tiny bit of cheese. I feel satisfied. DH is out of town and my mom are watching my boys all next week so I may reward myself with a facial and maybe even the hairdresser again. I don't know. Not used to so much self care!!! Have a great Friday everyone!

It must be haircut season. I woke up this morning thinking I need to make an appointment to get mine chopped toward the end of the month, before we go out of town. I like mine short and spikey. :)

Well, the scale isn't budging. I'm trying to mentally jack myself up to get started on P1 on Monday. :sigh: But I don't like this bloated feeling I've had for the past month. Carb bloat? Or just fat?

Pelvis pain still comes and goes. I'm going to try the elliptical today. Fingers crossed for no pain afterward.

Hard evening tonight...I am tired and we went to my folks for dinner with my sisters. I knew mom was cooking something that I could eat and having pie for dessert, but I was unprepared for all the foods that I could not eat..Ramen noodle slaw, cheesy potatoes and the stuffed pork chops, plus the snacks that were sitting out when we got there. I did not cave, bUT it did tell me that I need to plan Joe I am going to handle social events prior to going in.

I did plan a 3rd packet as dessert and made jenevas caramel apple pie. I used my airfryer to bake it, much nicer than preheating the entire oven for a single serve baked item. This was good..I have enough apples to make 2 more.

Hope everyone's weekend is going well.

Sue

HIS - how'd the elliptical work out? No more pain I hope :crossed:

Sue, you're lucky that your family is being supportive (mine was too). Still there were many times I was faced with a lot of foods I couldn't eat, same as you, even if there were some choices for me. But you're right on the mark - planning is key.I always had some cut up veggies in my purse, and a small container of salad dressing, and a bar - or I would offer to bring a dish (usually a salad) to add to the meal.

Thanks everyone for all the advice about my carb/fat questions. You were all right, of course, and I was overthinking it. My coach said not to worry so much about the ratio, also just try to avoid those foods that are carb/fat heavy. But otherwise just do what I'm doing.
So I got my framed Congratulations certificate. Maybe I'll put it in my office, so it'll be a reminder of what I accomplished, might be useful on those days --- you know, when you open up every cupboard door looking for goodies, and stand in front of the open fridge door for 5 minutes ;) :D
DS was here for a quick visit (he was working on Friday in a city about an hour from here, so came by to stay overnite). I made shepherds pie, which he likes, me too! It was good and I had an extra helping. And I had some nice fresh strawberries, so made them berries with ice cream for dessert, I had a small amount with my berries. But it didn't seem to do any damage weight wise. Not sure I'd call it a splurge, so I Just had a bit lighter calorie day yesterday to make up for it.

Still snowing here today, a bit warmer through the week, but I'm still wearing my winter coat.:(
We're going to a play this afternoon, a comedy - just the local Little Theater - but they do a really good job with their productions. Should be fun!
Hope everyone is having a good weekend!

Since I got clearance to use the elliptical again, I did so twice this week. It was SO great to get some cardio work in where I worked up a sweat! Felt great both times, both during and after. I'm starting to feel hopeful about running in May. But I'm going to visit a different running store and see about changing my shoes, just in case that was a contributing factor to my fracture.

This week I basically lost and gained the same pound over and over again, no net loss by the end of the week. So off to P1 I go, tomorrow. I stopped in the health food store on Friday and got some WF products, and then picked up my necessary veggies at the grocery store, so I think I'm good to go. I have a weird assortment of packets but I really don't want to order anything so I might end up having a lot of Quest shakes, or pudding for breakfast. :D I've been trying to eat up all my non-protocol foods like yogurt and apples so they won't tempt me in the days ahead. I have a feeling this is going to be much harder than my first go-round with P1, when I was uber-motivated.

Better day today. I did not have any problems like I had the last 2 sundays with feeling light headed. I also had a good nights sleep last night.

My folks came over to help pack, etc. We also took my huge computer desk apart so I now have my computer set up on card table.

HIS - I am glad the eliptical went well. I think you are making the right decision to move back to P1 (please remind me of this in a couple of months). Since you are limited on your ability to exercise it may be the perfect time (You don't want to be able to exercise and then find that the weight crept up a bit more where you had to do P1.

Blue - I agree having a plan is key and reherse the event and your plan in your mind. I think it was another one of those good lessons to learn while on P1. It could have been bad if I had not been on P1. Berries sounds wonderful, I hope the play was good.

MiWi - Nice that your mother is able to come and help you out. When does your new nanny start? You deserve a little reward. When do you move to P3. Have you lost anything on P2?

Destony - sorry they did not have pink this time, but is nice to have something fun to look forward to fro the summer.

I did some meal prep today for lunches for this week. I had enough veggies to make 4 meals of my IP chili recipe. I was wondering what I am going to eat for lunch on Friday - when I realized that I was planning on moving to P2 on Thursday. Since I have a lunch for Thursday, I guess I will make the switch to P2 on Friday.

I think we are shooting for April 28 as moving day ( This would have been my first P3 day and that might have been a bit of a challenge for that day. I was a bit disappointed that my coach told me the visit for P4 is only 15 minutes. I hope she does some teaching - at this point I think I know more about IP than she does.

Sue