I can't believe how fast this week went. Well, gals (and any guy lurkers out there), we're half-way through our challenge! And, even though some of us maybe haven't had the cleanest weeks, it looks like everyone is still trying hard. Yea!!!
I've had a pretty good week, and am looking forward to this weekend (although no lazing around on the couch for me -- too much to do, too many people to see . . . ) I've set aside time to spend at the gym – I think I'm ready to get acquainted with "the bar"! I want to try to do some squats, and I'm sure I'm going to need lots of time to figure out the machine I want to use (it's the kind where the bar stays within tracks, so I hopefully won't tip over), and there's always plenty of staff around on the weekends.
I'm extra motivated to get into shape, 'cause I just confirmed that I'll be going on a big trip to S.E. Asia next spring. I really want to go diving and do a lot of trekking -- both of which are easier to do if I'm in shape. Also, I know from experience that it's hot and steamy where I'm thinking of going, so I'll be a lot more comfortable if I lose about 50 pounds. Anyway, I was planning on going on this trip (a friend of mine lives in Malaysia) in any event, but it just became much easier: I found out this week that I won a huge raffle prize – RT airline tickets to Japan! The only thing I've ever won before is a coffee basket, so I was stunned to learn that I had gotten this lucky. So, I'm hoping to use these tickets to get to Tokyo, and then take another flight from Tokyo to Kuala Lumpur. I'm very, very excited.
TH: It's scary -- but reassuring -- to me when I read other people's posts, and realize that I'm not the only one who sometimes feels unmotivated, frozen, lost, etc. That's why I think this site is so great – it really does help to realize that other people are going through the same struggles. And I think I understand what you're going through, 'cause I felt (and still do) many of the same things. About 8 years ago, I lost 80 pounds, only to have regained all of the weight. Talk about feeling disgusted and angry – I was so mad at myself for having "let myself go." But, after years of whining about it (in my head, of course; I was too embarrassed to admit to anyone that I had fallen off the exercise/good food wagon, although the evidence was there for everyone to see), I just got tired of hearing it. I'm still trying not to be so mad at myself, and I work to focus on the present and what I'm gaining by becoming healthier (e.g., the trip discussed above). Anyway, just know that you have supportive people here who are going through the same challenges you are!
MrsJim: Hope you had a great trip this weekend (I'm assuming you're reading this on Sunday). I saw the picture you posted on the other thread, and you look awesome. Congrats!
JEC: Where are your pictures on the L&S site? Are they under "JEC"? I'd love to take a look.
Susan and Moxie: Regarding back pain and yoga – I suggest you ask your teacher to check your form (even if she'd prefer to have her eyes closed, it's her job to teach). I've been doing yoga for a couple of years and haven't experienced that type of pain. More importantly, my instructor is very insistent that we be gentle with our bodies; in her view, yoga is an exercise that should flow with your breath (that is, unless you're doing power yoga or whatever it's called).
Mel: I love your new pic! If I was being honest, mine would look like a dumpling.
Gotta run for a final meeting of the day. Hope everyone has a great weekend! See you on Monday. Mox