Arrrrrrggghhhh!!! I just typed a HUGE post...took me FOREVER....addressed everyone individually and included my weight, measurements, and everything! Then I clicked on "SUbmit" and it said I used too many icons, to go back and try again. I clicked on Back..and It's GONE!!!!:cry: I cant believe it! So anyway, about to go start again. Just wanted to let ya'll know it will show up soon...IF it works this time!

Cyan and Reina....on my way shortly! Just noticed your last posts. Didnt chicken out..just having probs getting posted for some reason. I'll have it shortly tho. Dont give up on me :)

reina_mia, I've heard about Curves, I believe it is the exercise program that only women attend. I know a lot of women feel more comfortable with the fact that only women are there during the exercising. About your budget and you considering joining a group, the main thing is if you're ready to commit to something like that and give it 100%. I think a lot of times women give up on different programs because to begin with they weren't ready to give something 100%. It's the same thing when people begin their weight loss journey, some may fail while others succeed. I have always felt like you have to really want something, you have to feel way down deep inside that you are going to succeed in your goal and stick to that feeling. I've never really thought that much about designated programs as such. Every person that strives at losing weight has their own type of focus, some feel they can do it alone with minimal expense while others do need outside help. No person's way is better than anyone elses. Whatever helps that person succeed towards their goal is the right way for them in losing weight. For me, I didn't want to spend the money to get outside help, I felt that I got myself into this mess I'll get myself out. This has worked for me so far, but what worked for me might not work someone else. I tried to focus on my bad eating habits in the beginning. I knew that's where my trouble was. The next problem I had was not being active enough. So I took those two things and I developed a new plan for myself, it took a lot of work and determination. And the will power to stay away from the foods that I knew were wrong for me and piled the weight on. I really do believe if my husband hadn't said something I would still be bingeing away. I started thinking about my health like I never had before. It doesn't happen over night, you wish it could. Sometimes in the beginning I would go to sleep at night wishing I could wake up 20 pounds lighter. I dwelled too much on losing weight instead of my focus for wanting to lose the weight. Health was the main reason, but also the way my clothes fit. You mentioned the other day about your clothes fitting better, it's such a great feeling to see results like that. Always praise yourself for any accomplishment you reach. It could be a half pound, a half inch. I can tell by your replies that you are so determined to reach your goals, you are reaching out for any help to aide you. I really thought in the beginning that I could do this alone, I was determined I was not going to sign up for any programs. That's when I had the thought to reach out for some support online. This forum has helped me so much during my journey. You ladies are some tough ladies. I've never read or heard about such inspiration and motivation coming from people before. From the start of this thread we all knew we were in the same boat, we have been there for each other or atleast tried to be. We've reached the point that we're comfortable talking with each other and have progressed to the point that we have shared our pics with each other and our weights and measurements. We are being true to ourselves and to each other. None of us are perfect, like I've mentioned before if any of us thought we were we wouldn't be here. We all have a common bond, we're on a weight loss journey together. We've learned a lot about each other through our writings. We know each other's weakness. Mine as you all know is cheesecake, potatoe chips, sugar and just about any dessert you could name. Reading your replies about your cravings for McDonald's is myself looking into a mirror. Your McD cravings are like my potatoe chip and dessert cravings. My heart goes out to you, I know what all you go through. None of us here are having an easy time, we all have our weaknesses and we all have our goals. In whatever way we find comfortable to help us reach those goals in a healthy way we stand behind each other. We all knew when we decided to lose weight that we were ready to. That's the key issue, you have to be ready to lose the weight. It's a mind over body issue. If you feel that you need an extra program to help you out I don't see anything wrong with that. But if money is the issue, which nowadays money is getting tighter and tighter with everyone. You might need to sit down and think things through seriously and think out your plans. Consider what your reasons are for needing an outside plan to help you. Is it for motivation, more scheduled exercising, etc. I have heard so many people say well I joined this fitness center but I couldn't lose any weight but other people were losing. I always think to myself, perhaps those answers lie within the person themselves. Everyone would love to find a quick fix, something guaranteed to help them lose the weight. My response is the same, the answer lies within the person. There are no quick fixes, quick weight loss results that are healthy. I feel it begins with healthy eating and good exercise regulary. It's about how we feel about ourselves, somewhere in life things get off track. We take eating for granted, it pacifies us in our low moods, our happiness and just every day events. We got off track when we forgot that food is supposed to nourish the body not grant us the mood we wish to find. Please know that these thoughts are just mine and how I feel about myself. I'm not preaching to anyone or trying to get others to feel the way I do. But I feel that when I look in the mirror now I know that what I'm doing for myself is becoming healthier. Sure I don't get to sit down and eat a super size bag of potatoe chips and go back for 2nds or thirds on the cheesecake but what I do get to do is be healthier. I get to eat a meal without feeling like the zipper is going to fly right out of my pants. I don't ever want to feel that way again. When you can honestly sit down and ask yourselves that question, do I honestly feel good after sitting down and stuffing myself until I feel miserable in my clothes the bad eating habits still has a hold on your lifestyle. I still wonder how I used to be able to sit down and devour all that food. Sure it tasted good, but did I not know I was full. My problem was that I didn't think about what I was eating or how much of it I consumed. I could watch a movie and eat a large bag of chips without realizing I had. It's all about a lifestyle change, and yes it's hard to rearrange and get rid of the bad things. After all they had become my lifestyle, I felt like I was losing my best friend when I gave up those chips. How would I ever be able to watch a movie without munching on a bag of chips. Guess what, I did manage. And yes in the beginning I felt like I was not going to make it. I would have to get up and stop watching the movie, my habit was that bad. And I'm not in the clear yet, I've still got things to work on. Things that drive me up the wall, but I will manage. There's a phrase I always keep close in thought, the Lord never gives us anything we can't handle. At times we might think that we can't, but in the end when we look back we see that we did make it through. So reina_mia, if you feel that you need to join a fitness group and your budget can handle that by all means seek the additional help you need. But sometimes just looking inside ourselves we can find ways for an alternate route. I wish you much success in your journey, and if you ever need any support I'm here for you. Stay Strong.
:grouphug:

Ok, this is going to be a shortened version of the hour long posting session I just finished and lost. :( Just dont have the energy to think it all out again and too tired to type that much again also.

First things first....my self-humiliation exercise..lol Here goes..

Weight: 228 lbs ( started at 235 2 weeks ago )
Waist: 43.5 inches
Chest: 44.5 inches
Hips: 52 inches :yikes:
Thighs: 26.5 inches
Arms: 15 inches
Did I leave anything out??

Whew!! I made it!:faint: Ya'll have no idea how hard that was..lol

Cjunk...welcome back! Your 2 days of good workouts sounds like it is more strenuous than my week's worth all put together. You're doing great!

Cyan...glad to hear you're feeling much better!! Congrats on your lack of binges lately.

Annie...hope you got a good report at the doctor today. Now get your butt in here and post those mearements! Misery loves company, ya know.:lol:

Reina Mia...my hubby doesnt "get it" either. He's always asking, "How can you possibly find so much to say about eating too much and especially to people you dont even know" It's hilarious because he has no idea..I have more prob finding when to STOP...I have no problem at all thinking of things to say. lol
Tonite I told him not to look when I was typing my measurements. He said "You mean you'll tell them and not me??" I said...you got it! lol
Oh, Reina...I have a complaint. Some of our measurements are pretty close but you get to weigh 30 lbs less than me...NO FAIR!!!!:mad: lol ( just kidding, but I AM jealous:p ):)

Well, in a nutshell, that's pretty much what I had typed earlier..just a much shorter version. I bet next time I"ll "Save" before I "Submit" tho. :D

Miki, that's what happened to me the other day. I lost my post several times. Keep on trying Girl :)

I'm in the process of changing my avatar, I will post my weight and all with that one.

Thanks Cyan, the doctor visit didn't go exactly as I'd hoped. I was so worried about blood work, my weight, etc. But the unexpected occured today. Feeling alittle down tonight. I go back this week for more tests. My weight was good today, I was proud that I've accomplished some of my goals. I'll meet the news I received today head on, seems like not too long ago I did a post about things occurring in our lives that we're not prepared for. But I'll get through this.

Well before I start rambling again, I need to change my avatar and do my weight, measurements on a post.

Be back shortly.
:grouphug:

Annie....Ditto to all of the above!! You typed much of what I had tried to say in the post that got lost. Thanks! It was like reading something I had written myself. I am just so thrilled that I joined this site. The support and encouragement has been the backbone of my successes lately. THanks to all of you for that!!!

Miki, I know what you mean. All of you ladies have helped me so much. There have been so many times that I felt like I was hanging on by my fingernails, I found that I was not alone in the way I was feeling. So many of you here have helped me be able to hang on day by day. Cyan has the right idea, during the holidays instead of us focusing on losing weight, let's try to maintain our weight. That's a good challenge for all of us, to maintain instead of lose or gain. Of course losing will be great, but I don't see that as something that will occur with me during the holidays. Great idea Cyan. I know with the wrong foods in front of me it will be very easy for me to pile the weight on. So I'm taking Cyan's suggestions and focusing on maintaining my weight. Somebody please hide those potatoe chips! :s:
All of my measurements are about the same, I am round all the way down. I look like Santa :lol: So in the holiday pictures I post here I am going to hold up a sign to hide my mid section.

Thanks to all of you for the support. Glad we could all be brave and post our pics and measurements. Staying true to ourselves and each other is the step in the right direction. It's nice to be able to put a face with a name now. All of you are very nice looking ladies. Very friendly faces.

Here goes...

SW: 156
CW: 129
GW: 115/120
chest: 35
waist: 31
hips: 37

I'm with Cyan on what she posted. If anyone feels that they aren't comfortable posting a pic, measurements, weights, etc. please don't let that keep you from coming here and joining in with the support. I was alittle nervous about posting my pic, I'm an old gal, and I dislike my roly poly tummy.

Hope everyone had a good day. Have a good day tomorrow. No exercise for me tonight at all. Not feeling too great, hopefully tomorrow will be a better day.
Take Care everyone, Stay Strong, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Hello Everyone,

Well it took me some time to figure out but I finally got a pic on the site!

I had trouble sizing it and taking out some of the colours (consider them there for effect!! as it was originally a group photo).

Here are my current measurements:

36 chest
27 waist (but fluctuates from 27-28 still not settled)
40--Yes, down 3 inches!!! Yaay!! Still a fine asset though!
Thigh-23
Upper arm-11 1/2
Weight-132 lbs

It has been a struggle maintaining weight but I think if I keep plugging away at it I will get there. My goal weight is about 120-125 which is a healthy weight for me because I am vertically challenged and not very tall.

Once again I am going to be a bit selfish and use the group for a shoulder to lean on. It seems that this few weeks have been tough. A lot of unexpected loss. One of my co-workers left unexpectedly for personal reasons and she will be missed. My role will change significantly and it will be challenging and perhaps stressful.

So, I went for a swim tonight and tried to relax and recoup. My boyfriend got me some sushi with recognition that I was likely to crash on the eating and he also picked up some flowers. He even came and read his book while I swam. What a sweetheart. In any case, she will be missed and I have been struggling with all of the loss. So I guess maintaining the weight loss has been a challenge amidst all the loss. My patterns have been a bit more lax but not totally gone. Unfortunately I am seeing it in my fluctuating measurements and a bit in the self esteem category.

Enough about me, Annie, I hope that all is well and we are here to support you to stay on track while you deal with any news you may get.

Cyan, I am happy to hear that you had a big plate of pasta--your body is probably craving some energy burning foods because it has gone with none for so many days. Not to worry--your body is naturally demanding you to replenish itself. The fact that you are getting on your bike is something else!! Great work!!

Reina-Mia, I have heard that Curves uses a form of circuit training where you keep up your cardio rate and then use high rep toning using low-level weights. I understand that they indicate that it is a form of exercise that can be accomplished in a condensed timeframe of less than 1hr. I have heard some good things about circuit training but not too much about Curves itself.

LadyRider, I hope all is well with you. I haven't individually posted for a while and am catching up on reading all of the details of everyone over the last little bit. I hope all is well with you and that you are keeping up on your running!!

I will reply more to everyone once I read all of the posts.

Didn't last in the pool for more than 35 mins tonight with a sore shoulder but it was a straight 35 minute workout. I think I swam about 1km or 40 lengths so I would call that solid for tonight. Didn't drink near enough water or eat near enough veggies today. Will get back on track tomorrow with that too!

Cjunk

:wave: Hi Everyone!
I tried posting earlier, but it got lost on the server change over, so here goes:
Chest: 38
Waist: 33
Hips: 42
Arm: 14
Thigh: 23
Weight 148
Height : 5' 1/2" (just to give the measurements prospective);)

I had a great weekend for fun and exercise, but not good for eating. I took two of my granddaughters for the weekend and we had a wonderful time. We ate out, went to the movies, went shopping, ate ice cream and brownies, and generally got silly. Have you ever tried sitting backwards on a treadmill? Then when someone turns it on you slide off onto a pile of pillows and laugh yourself silly. :lol: Since Dennis's passing, this has not been a happy house, and these girls (age 10 and 14) were exactly what I needed to lift my mood. Cyanne, the 10 yr old, ran with me Sunday morning, then challenged me to the treadmill that afternoon. She said I had to do what ever she did. Well the little stinker upped the speed every 20 seconds for 10 minutes. We were flat out running by the end of the challenge. I beat her, but I had a good workout doing it. I jogged another two miles that afternoon to try and burn off the brownies and ice cream. When I weighed in this morning I hadn't lost any weight, but I did lose 1 inch.
Reina_mia - Curves just opened here in my town. I haven't looked into it because I know I wouldn't make the 30 minute drive to get there. I'm thinking if you're not sure you would stick with it, it isn't the right time to join. You know how hard it can be to get motivated to exercise when you're doing it in your own home. Now imagine having to get dressed and drive someplace to do it. It is my opinion that these places have you sign a contract to commit to big bucks because they will get their money even if you don't come. If they charged per session instead, they would never get rich. Just my humble opinion.
Cyan - So glad you're feeling better! I agree, I love seeing the faces that go with the names. You know what? We're a pretty good lookin' group of women! ;)
Annie - It's so great to "see" you!. And you're not old, I have you beat by quite a few years. :o I don't know what the doc and tests may tell you, but I want you to know you are in my prayers. I'm here if you need to talk.
Cjunk - glad you're back on track with the exercise. I love your pic!
Mikki, Congtrats on posting your measurements! Just keep thinking about how good you will feel each time those numbers go down. ;)
I'm having lots of sweet cravings. Went shopping for the ingrediants for the goodies I'm baking for Thanksgiving, and it was all I could do not to buy a candybar at the check out counter. Also, it occurred to me this morning that the last couple of times I went on a diet, I was never able to get below 148. I just got sloppy with counting calories or started cheating little by little until I gave up all together. I feel like I'm standing on the edge, If I can just make myself step back I'll be ok, but if I jump over I will not be able to get back on track. I didn't have this support group those other times, and I'm VERY grateful I have you all to help me through this this time. I wrote most of this last night. When I went to post it, my server went back to the old site, so I just saved it. This morning I was feeling worse - was even considering not running at all - Until I pulled up the list to see what you all have written. Well, that was a great help, cause I am going to run this morning. And I threw away the rest of the brownies and sweet rolls. With your help and encouragement I will step back from the edge.

Together We WILL Succeed!
:grouphug:
Lady

Good Morning Ladies
 

Wow! We are a good looking bunch...All these wonderful faces...it is so nice to be part of this group....I cannot express the happiness I feel when I come here and read all of your encouraging posts and daily summaries of your lives...just wonderful.

Annie...first off ...You are a beautiful woman...so elegant looking and your measurements..you are tiny tiny tiny:) Secondly, I send you lots of good energy to face what may come in terms of your results. I am here if you need someone to talk to...about anything.

Cjunk...does your boyfriend have a brother! He seems like a dream. Good going on the swimming. I know its been tough with all the turmoil of the last couple of weeks. But you will do it, you are a tough cookie and you will rise to the challenge.

Opps before I forget...I just read this today...SELENIUM LOWERS CANCER RISK BY SUPPRESSING MUTATED GENE
New scientific findings have revealed that selenium activates a tumor-suppressing gene called p53, which seems to work by causing abnormal cells to die or preventing them from replicating. The p53 gene is mutated or inactive in many types of cancer. Although it has been known that selenium can lower the risk of certain types of cancer, the exact mechanism has been unknown. Researchers estimate that the average American diet provides only 50 mcg of selenium daily, and that a multivitamin containing selenium is a good idea for most people. They also recommend about 200 mcg of selenium per day for cancer prevention. Antioxidants such as selenium neutralize free radicals, natural but dangerous byproducts of normal body processes that can damage healthy cells and lead to many chronic diseases. The findings were published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Early Edition.

I have been taking a selenium supplement for the last 6 7 months.

LadyRider I know exactly what you are feeling...interms of those sweet cravings...sometimes, I swear I hear them calling my name...by then, its too late for me, I have already thrown a sweet down my neck...I love chocolate...chocolate cake...any kinds of rubbish meats...hotdogs, Mcdonald's Big Macs...fatty cold cuts...I can go on for hours...but my mouth is starting to salivate:lol:

Miki thanks for congratulating me on not binging, it has been very hard at times...I realized that in the evenings, instead of sticking around the kitchen/pantry area, I go upstairs to where there is no food, get on the computer and post here, or watch tv or talk on the phone...and before I know it, its time for me to go to bed. Another thing I do is prepare my lunch for work immediately after I eat my dinner...this way I am not tempted to eat my lunch :T
Yes, its true, I've been known to do this...if I wait too long to make my lunch and its been a couple of hours since dinner...when I make the lunch...I eat it, then I have to make another lunch immediately after... :o This is my dirty little secret.

Reina...so what will you be doing about Curves? Let us know what your decision is.

Ok Girls...stay strong...have a great day

Annie...you are in my prayers...stay strong, positive and healthy

Cyan

Cyan- Thanks for the selenium information. I will start taking it and pass the information onto my brother- in - law who is in the process of fighting cancer.
And thanks for sharing your "dirty little secret". :ink: I have one too. I love the combination of chocolate and peanut butter, so when I am home alone I take two huge globs of peanut butter and mix it with lots of chocolate syrup, then sit down and eat the whole thing. I'm too embarrassed to do this when my husband is home to say "What on earth are you eating?":o



:grouphug:
Lady

Welcome back everyone!
This is a great looking group. And I am glad to see that everyone is up and ready for the Challenge.

Lisa & PreciousOne - where are you guys:?:

Cyan, pasta is my weakness when it comes to food. I can't ever stop eating it when I start. But you thought right by burning it off with exercise. I have to start reading up on supplements. I take no vitamins at all, and everyone tells me I should. Any recommendations

MikiG - I did that the other night with all my weight measurements and everthing that went on over the weekend and I added too many icons too, and then lost it all. I screamed and said forget it, I can't rememeber what I wore the night before let alone what I just wrote, so I just reposted measurement and that was that. I should have learned, I normally type as I read everything on a little notepad in Outlook. Then I copy over, and I always do this except for that night.....
We would never give up on you, just a little concerned no one checked in all day yesterday until late last night.

Annie, I had to read your post at least 3 times today. I totally relate to what you are feeling. It is in us, deep down inside I know. I have never had a strong bone in my body when it came to willpower. I am 30 years old, and I can say that I never was able to really really succeed on any diet plan. Because I didn't have the will to do it. I didn't have the 100% determination to keep going. I still look at my wedding pictures and wonder, why I couldn't lose the weight for the most important day of my life. :?: But now, because of you and all the other women in this unbelieveable group, somehow, someway, gave me the will to finally do something for myself and help me through it. I think of all of you women like my best buddies. I don't even tell my husband exciting news first. I log on and tell you all.

Annie, sorry to hear that your dr visit didn't go too well. I will pray that you get some better news. God helps us through the worse and the best. Keep him in your thoughts.
I really appreciate you expressing your true feelings to me, and you are right, if we can't be true to ourselves why are we even here right now.
MikiG - Funny. we are very close in measurements. But I am barely 5 feet tall so I bet that is where the difference is for us.

LadyRider --I am also doing all the baking for Thanksgiving, and I am sure it will hit me by tonight how hard this part will be, I am thankful that my husband went and bought me some goodies for me to eat and not feel too burdened with making the deserts.

Cjunk, stress can be a big factor in losing your focus on your goals. Remember one things, we can't change the things we can't control, therefore it is useless in worrying about them. You know by now that I am a huge emotional eater, and like a big change like that, I would have hit the closest McDonalds or Pizzahut.. It was great to see that you went swimming And to have a boyfriend like that, he is a gem. Hold on tight to him.

Well, I went to Curves this morning for a free workout and to see what they were really about.
They are a form of circuit training with 9 hydraulic machines and 9 flat boards. You move from each machine to a flat board every 30 seconds. It is less stress on the muscles and you don't sweat as much. I was very impressed with the workout. I didn't feel my muscles being worked as much as I do it at home and I feel really great. They are very unique. They don't have showers, or daycare. They expect you in and out in 30 minutes. The rate is about the same as going to a local YMCA, but it is more convenient to me.
Now I can tell you this. I really liked it and would like to do that 3x's a week, because it makes me more accountable for working out. Whereas working out at home, I always say I have to clean this room, or give my son a bath or sleep in. This way, I have to get out and drop off my son at school and can go straight there. But I won't be telling my husband that I want to join. I want it to be his decision to give me the membership. I want him to feel that I have shown my determination to succeed. :smug:I will try to workout at home for now and see if he decides to do it. I liked it, because it wasn't too hard on my bones and muscles. It did raise my heart rate up enough where I had to slow down a little bit.

Thank you all for your words of support and input.
Glad to see everyone back. :bravo:

I'M STILL HERE!
 

Hello everyone!:) I just spent the past week it seems, catching up on all the posts! I LOVE everyone's pics!:^: I hope to get mine up sometime soon. Not now, but maybe tonight after class when hubby is here for technical support.:dizzy:

Annie, we are here for you! We have all become close to each other in a weird sort of way. I find myself thinking about one person or another from the group as I'm trying to fight a craving or deciding if I should go to the gym or not or if I just have something to talk about and need advice. It's hard to explain, but this group is important to me and I really feel good chatting with you guys.

I know my measurements got lost which the server change, so here they are again:

Weight 184.5 Height: 5 ft 4 inches
BUST: 42
UPPER ARM: 15
WAIST: 39
HIPS: 47
THIGH: 24

Wow, I have HUGE hips compared to the rest of me! I must elimate them!

Well, I went to the gym today. First time since last friday. Saturday night I ate way too late in the evening and was up for about 3 or 4 hours in the night with ACID REFLUX. At least that what I assume it was. I thought I was having a heart attack. It hurt sooooo bad! Read my journal for the scoop.

I have a plan for Thanksgiving. First of all I'm going to exercise like crazy tomorrow and Friday. I will also go for a walk before and after my Thanksgiving Dinner...no matter how cold it it outside. I will first fill my plate with Turkey and vegetables. Then, I will go back for small helpings of the creamed corn and potato casserole, and stuffing, and bread, etc. I will also have a couple of desserts. I will not deprive myself of something I REALLY want. If I'm not sure it's going to be wonderful, I won't eat it. I will eat eggs for a late morning breakfast because Thanksgiving dinner will be at 2pm. I will not eat any food after 6pm. Back on plan for Friday! OH yeah, I will also drink water water water on Thursday and maybe a diet dr pepper.

That's all for now!
LISA

Hello to all the friendly faces here. I agree, very nice pics here. Everyone has such friendly and kind looking faces. It's a nicer feeling here now that we can relate to each other by our faces and names. I love all that color in your pic Cjunk. Very happy feeling seeing the colors.

Lady, thanks for the support about the age, but I know too well that the big 50 is coming in May. I hope all you younger ladies enjoy your life and beware of the middle age spread. It will sneak up on you.
Lady, I tried the cider last night. Very, very delicious! :) And the aroma is out of this world. Makes me think of the Christmas holidays. Thanks for the tip on the cider, it was a lift to my spirits last night. You're not an oldie, you have held your youth very well. You don't look your age at all.

Cjunk, I often wonder how you deal with all that occurs in your life. Some people have things occur over time, but lately it seems that life is throwing everything at you all at once. You continue to inspire me with your strength. When I was your age I probably would have fell down and gave up if life had dealt me the things you are going through. Now Cjunk, you don't even need to ask for support from us ladies. We're here for you even when you don't realize it. It sounds like you have met a very remarkable man. Those are hard to come by. Sounds like he is a very caring person, don't let him get away. That was so sweet about the flowers, like I said don't let him get away.
You asked for some shoulders to lean on in here, well there's lots of shoulders here, all of us are here for you. You hang in there, take things day by day. Don't let the new job responsibilities get to you. Take things step by step and don't dwell on the new pressure. You can do this, just put it in your mind that nothing will get you down. I always tell myself, nothing is going to beat me unless I let it. Always remember to take some time for yourself. Leave the job thoughts behind and all of life's issues and focus on something just for you. Life has become so busy that sometimes we don't have time to take even a few minutes for ourselves. When we come to the point that we are bogged down that's when we step back and say hey it's about time that I readjusted a few things in my life. It's so easy to lose ourselves in our daily lives. So shut the world out sometimes and focus on happy things for yourself.

Lady, I loved your account of your day. Sounds like you had a blast. That's what I call enjoying life and having time in your life to enjoy things that bring about happiness. You sound like a fun lady, see I told you that you weren't an oldie. Your story brought a smile to my face, children bring such happiness to life. You're a very strong lady, I know what you have faced over the last week. Your motivation to get through this sad time amazes me. It's very difficult to stay focused on our goals when things occur in life that sends us in another direction. It's the unexpected things that sometimes can send us flying off the edge of the cliff. We've all talked about this before about how food has been our source of emotional needs. I think all of us have done a great job with the things we have endured. You are proof that we can get through this no matter what we are faced with.

Cyan, thank you for the compliments :o . But I'm barely 5'3 so all those measurements are confined in a compact area. And besides I have never heard of a tiny Santa :lol: For the first time in my life I fully understand the verse about "when he laughed his belly shook like a bowl full of jelly". Except mine is layers and layers of cheesecake.
I understand your statements about the lunch making. I sometimes find myself fixing desserts for the family or snacks and I don't have any. But when I dish out their icecream I find that the last spoon of icecream I put in a bowl I seem to always leave some on the spoon. :s: I do that quite a lot with everything I fix, I made a peanut butter sandwich the other day for my son, I couldn't wait to lick the knife. I think a lot of my calorie consumption comes from licking knives and spoons. I sympathize with you on your cravings. There's nothing wrong with having alittle something to get you through a tough spell. For a while I was banging my head against the wall trying to avoid cravings. With certain things I can have just a spoonful or a bite of and I'm content. But there are other things that I know a bite or a spoonful would only lead to total bingeing. If I may make a suggestion to you, try that cocoa that I mentioned. I also am a chocolate eater, and believe me that cocoa satisfies the craving. 25 calories and added calcium, not a bad deal in my opinion.

Miki and reina_mia, hope you both are having a good day. Looking forward to your posts.

Thanks for the support about my health. Yesterday was not a good day. I was totally worried about my blood work, but in the end it was the least of my worries. I had my second biopsy yesterday. Well seems like their first diagnosis is pretty much accurate. So I will be seeing the specialist tomorrow. They explained to me yesterday in detail what would take place. I don't care to think about the tests he is going to perform. The ones yesterday just about had me coming off the table. So I'm going to take this day by day. I am a firm believer that the Lord will never give me anything that I can't handle. Yesterday afternoon I spent most of that time crying, I guess sort of a self pity latched on and wouldn't let go. I woke up this morning felt alittle depressed but as the day goes by I am dealing with all of this very well. I guess I just needed some time to let everything sink in. Getting news that you don't ever think you will get is a big shock to comprehend. Your first thoughts are, the results are wrong, they messed up somewhere. Sorta like denial sets in. But I'm a strong lady, very strong in my faith. I'll face this head on and kick some behind. I'm not laying down, curling up and giving way for self pity and losing the battle. It's chin up, smile on my face through all of this. Besides I have a weight loss challenge going on right now with you ladies. We have the holidays coming up, all of us are going to maintain our weight through all that food and desserts that will be in front of our eyes. We're all a strong bunch of ladies determined to reach our goals. Together we will make it.
I do thank you ladies for the care and concern. You're a very special group of people. God's Blessings to you all.

So, back to our motivation and challenge. I just about have all my baked goods finished for Thanksgiving. I have two more things to bake. One is a Nestle Toll House Chocolate Chip pie for my son. I'm going to bake that Wed. night hopefully. That is one of the desserts that I will have to have a lot of will power to resist. I could eat that whole pie if I started on just one bite. But it's one of my son's favorites so I will make sure he has that for Thanksgiving. Wish me luck on not eating any of it when it comes out of the oven.

There won't be any exercise for me again today. So I am staying very active in hopes that some calories will be burned in other ways. So ride that bike an extra 10 minutes for me Cyan and Lady. Swim an extra 3 minutes for me Cjunk.

Hope everyone has a great day. Keep up the good work ladies, we can make it.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Good Evening Ladies
 

Well let me tell you...this afternoon whilst at work, I was having full on illusions of food. I was craving with every cell in my body a big mac, a mcChicken and fries...and a milkshake...I even counted how many calories that would be....over 2000 cals....then I decided I would eat chinese food...general tao chicken...fried and battered and soaked in a sugary sauce...with beijing Shrimp...same thing except shrimp....so when I was walking home, I passed mcdonalds...I looked in...no line up...but I walked over to the bus stop and took the bus home...empty handed...boy was that tough...I reeeeeeeally wanted Mcdonalds..sooooo bad. But now I'm glad I passed...I had instead oven baked fries and yes...a low fat hot dog...it was ok...I consumed 1636 cals total...so now I have to go exercise to burn off some more cals.

Annie...hang in there...you are one tough cookie...with an amazing spirit...you truly are an inspiration to me...so strong and wise...I send you lots of good energy.

The rest of you gals...well, you're not so bad either:lol:

Well I hear the bike calling...better get on it...I will ride an extra 10 minutes for you Annie

Take Care
Cyan

I hate pictures of myself!
 

Okay everyone. There it is. My pic. Just so you know, it was 9pm and I just got home from class after a long day.
I hope everyone had a great day. Mine was okay. I am officially on Thanksgiving Break! I'm looking forward to it! Tomorrow, I have plans to do a step circuit class at the gym. I'm way excited about that.

I also would like to share a little bit just to get it off my chest. For about 3 years now, I have been having some abdominal pain and I've been to two different Dr.'s and and to the emergency room. They've all suspected that it's my gallbladder, but we can't ever find anything. Well, now it's getting worse and I am going to the Dr either tomorrow or Monday. If anyone knows anything about gall bladder disease, I would love to have more information. My mom says I just get it out, and is angry because I have an HMO and a lot of tests are just too expensive and they won't cover it. I may have to do a little pushing and prodding to get the care I need. I really want to figure out what the problem is.

I will log back on in the morning. Just wanted to get my pic up tonight! Sorry to put such a bad pic up in the midst of all you beauties!

Good night!
Lisa:)

Hello All,

Let me start out by saying that Annie you amaze me in that you were able to extend such support and caring first when you yourself face challenges. I admire you for your strength and want you to know that we are here for you too.

LadyRider, what fun you had on the weekend. Sounds like it was what you needed and I think your challenges burned what you ate! Good for you on throwing away those brownies!

Cyan, you just gotta read on and I am sure that you will find some weirdness in the similarities of our day--but you pulled through it and are definitely a positive example to follow. I will definitely get back on track because of everyone's support!

Lisa I think it is very positive that you have a plan in place for Thanksgiving. In fact all of you have awesome plans in place. All I can say from a Canadian perspective since our thanksgiving is already past, is damn, I am gonna miss some good turkey!! I may have to pick up some turkey breast and think of you guys...it is one of my favorite things to eat!! I will live vicariously through all of your posts! Your comment about your hips made me think of myself because I carry everything on my hips and it is the hard part to take off. I am slowly losing inches there and seeing results. You will see results too!!!


Reina-Mia--you will also find irony in my story...read on and what you said you would do under stress is uncanny because I slipped. I gotta get back on track! Curves sounded neat--it was the circuit training I read about. The important part is keeping up your heart rate in aerobic range while you are doing the weights to get the benefits. That's probably why they hustle things. It sounds like you enjoyed it a lot which is important. Too bad they don't give you a one or two week trial?


Miki, thanks for the welcome back. I look forward to reading your posts--my boyfriend thinks it is a bit unusual that we have all "bonded" but I think he is enjoying the support that I am getting because apart from this past week he has been enjoying a more energetic and happy me.

You are all right in that my boyfriend is a keeper. He is truly wonderful and my life is much more enriched with him. I hope that I can get back on track and succeed at my goals for myself but also to show him how much his support means to me. I tell him a lot as well and he kinda blushes when I read to him what I am writing to everyone about him---cute don't you think?? Cyan, he has an adorable brother but sadly his brother is only 15! Aparently he has some cousins in Montreal because he grew up there and also speaks French fluently. I will have to dig for the dirt on them and get back to you

HERE IS MY SAD NEWS FOR TODAY:

Well gang, there's some irony in all the posts I read tonight because I cracked!! I can't believe I let myself drive the McDonalds way home from work (I should have listened to your advice about driving a different way LadyRider, it was working!!!).

Today all of the stress cumulated with a discussion with the head boss and although it went well...it's like it was all bottled up. My swim last night resulted in me pushing myself too hard to destress (it worked) but my shoulder aches a lot today. I had to cancel my climbing and avoid that kinda exercise. So I did it. I ended up finding myself in the McDonalds drive-thru with no real reason other than stress driving me there. I felt immense guilt and pressure throughout the whole event. It really wasn't worth it. I ended up ordering a McHamburger Happy Meal and eating it as if I was going to die if I didn't. And then I felt even more horrible afterwards. My self-esteem went through the floor. I felt like such a failure.

Then my girlfriend called me. Her mom had chest pains and had been in the hospital all day and she was worried and stressed and she wanted to meet for dinner (yes--dinner!!). I am always there for my friends and she really did need to talk and have a good cry. I promised myself that I was there for her and not me and I forced myself not to eat anything because I already had dinner. I did order a light beer and I should have had water instead----more guilt. But I was there to support her and I think I handled it well. Several times I did not crack under french fry and natcho and fajhita pressure which she eagerly wanted me to eat. I recounted my guilt-filled McDonalds story and it made her laugh so I guess there is a reason for everything!!

I swung by the climbing gym to say hello to some friends and let them know that I'll be back soon. I regretted not going because once I got there it looked like fun and I knew I would have enjoyed that a lot more than the McDonalds.;) :devil:

So there it is--what we would call a slip not a relapse. I kinda knew I was heading in that direction because I was letting little things in my diet slide each day. I will try and get back on track tomorrow. I will also book a vacation day from work to try and regroup and take care of myself--maybe swim and get a pedicure or something!

Cjunk

Lisa,

You must have got your post in just before I posted my long one! Sorry I missed your newest post. The pic is great and I think that we are all stunning!!!

Cjunk

Argh!! I had more typed in my reply and it got wiped. Lisa, I was writing that I hope all goes well with your tests. I had some challenges in the past with a chronic issue and it can be draining sometimes but your persistance to look into it further will pay off.

I will say more soon...

Good Morning Ladies, hope everyone has a beautiful day.

That's a great pic Lisa, nice to be able to put a face with your name now. You're very pretty.
Lisa, my Dad had gall bladder surgery a while back. At first they didn't know what was wrong with him either. I remember he went through several tests. He was really sick, there is a lot of symptoms associated with that disease, especially a lot of pain. The surgery is very quick and minor the way they go about it these days. That's one good thing about medical advancement, so many surgeries now can be done with minimal time spent in the hospital and a lot easier on patients recovery time. My Dad was in the hospital I believe for 2 days when he had his surgery. I will talk with my Mom most likely tonight and I'll ask her some questions about the tests involved. Hopefully you're under the care of a good doctor that is also looking for other sources of your pain. 3 years is a long time to be in pain and not have a diagnosis of what the problem is. The two doctors you have seen already should have checked for other things and if they suspected it might be your gall bladder should have progressed with further treatment or tests. I pray you find some answers and a good doctor. You're too young to have to live with constant pain. There's an answer for it, seek out every avenue until you find it. There are other alternatives for you to turn to if you are having trouble with getting tests done, if need be bust down some doors.
You have a great plan for Thanksgiving, turkey and veggies first. And remember to wait in between eating to make sure you are truly still hungry. I hope you have a great session at the gym. And please make sure you find out what's causing your pain. I can't imagine hurting for 3 years without an answer for it. You're in my prayers.

Cjunk, I came to one conclusion when I read your post about the McDonald's adventure. You are looking at the negative side of that. Think about what you wrote, you said, "It wasn't worth it". You just learned a valuable lesson, that's the positive side. Sure you ate the food, but you now know in your mind that it wasn't worth it so perhaps next time that thought will cross your mind when the craving hits again. I did that not too long ago with a chocolate cookie. Don't beat yourself up over what you did. I don't call it backsliding or giving in. Every person has a limit that they can endure. Every now and then we all take that little step beyond the line. We're human, we're not perfect. And when the everyday load becomes alittle too much we all tend to turn to somewhere for some relief. With all of us, food seems to be that source. It's like me with the cookies, I was having one of those head against the wall kind of days, I was thinking I've about had enough of this. I went tearing into the kitchen grabbed out the cookies and said the heck with it. Sat down starting eating on the cookie and before I knew it something triggered in my mind about what I was doing and mainly "why" was I doing it. I needed a release for the stress I was feeling, I thought I would find it in the cookie I was consuming. After a while you start to realize that what you consume really doesn't take away the stress you are feeling, in fact it adds to it. Just like with what happened with you. You felt guilty afterwards, which added more stress to the stress you were already feeling. Cravings vs. alternatives to rid ourselves of the feelings we are having come in on different ends of the scope. It's very hard to do, but sometimes the best medicine is a small amount of time to seriously sit down and think about why you're getting ready to eat something. Is it hunger? The majority of the time you will find that it's not. I associate food with different things in my life. It's all habit, a very hard one to break. So please don't feel bad about yourself, you're just learning step by step how to manage issues in your life. I always think about things in this way, for everything that is negative there is also a positive side. And please remember, support from family, friends and your buddies here on the board will help you through rough times a lot better than food ever will. That candy bar or cookie or hamburger only takes a few minutes to eat and your right back where you were. Where as support goes a long, long way.
That would be great, I keep forgetting about some of you not celebrating Thanksgiving tomorrow. Turkey is very good for you. (white meat, no skin ;) ) That was so nice of you to say that you will be thinking of all of us. Just picture me sitting underneath the table with my cheesecake and you will have it about right. :s:
I hope you start feeling some relief from the pain in your shoulder. You hang in there and keep your spirits up. Don't let stress get the best of you, you're stronger than that.

Cyan, your illusions make me hungry. You did great in your choice of foods. It seems everyone here has cravings for McDonalds. They sure know how to hook people don't they. Those golden arches are in everyone's dreams. I found an article the other day about a lawsuit against them. I will post it when I finish this reply. Thanks for riding the bike for me, I really miss my exercise sessions. It has become part of my life. Hopefully in the next couple of days I will be able to get back to exercising. Depends on what takes place this morning. If the bike is out of the question for a while I'm going to have to come up with something else until I can use the bike again.
Thanks to everyone for your support and good wishes.

reina_mia, I'm very sorry my post to you came about like it did. Sometimes I ramble and get off subject. But you're right that's what I was trying to say. You have to feel deep inside that you have the determination to commit to something. You sound like you are on the right track, the things you say sound like you are ready to get busy and take things head on. Some people need a designated exercise schedule, it is a focus for them. I feel that you are taking the steps you need to take to help you. All of us are different, we're all taking some different approaches at becoming healthier. But the end product will all be the same. I hope things work out so that you can enroll in the class. If not, don't feel down about it. There are a lot of alternatives you can take. We could even start another exercise challenge in here, that way you will be setting up times for your exercise sessions and then you can post how you did here. Anything that will help you out we will be glad to do. reina_mia, I can understand perfectly why you weren't able to lose the weight for your wedding. That is a stressful, time consuming event. You have all kinds of emotions flowing during that time. Don't let the weight loss issue not happening before your wedding cloud the good memories of that day. You're a beautiful woman inside and out and I'm sure you were a beautiful bride. Don't ever feel like you could have been better in the past. Think about tomorrow, that's where opportunity lies. Life is so short, when you're young it's like you have forever. But it goes by quickly, make the best of each day. Don't frown on things from the past, you can't change them. Learn by them and go forward to enjoy what life has to offer. So keep your chin up, a smile on your face and greet each new day as a blessing bestowed upon you.

Lady, keep the motivation going. You're doing great with all that's going on in your life. Stay strong.

Miki, where are you? Hope you're doing ok. Don't forget you and I are going to try to buddy up for the tummy exercises. I'll be nice and let you go first and then you can tell me how rough they are. I swear I think I put on 2 pounds just in my stomach area last night. No matter what kind of clothes I try on nothing makes my stomach look smaller. I look like I'm 7 months pregnant if not more. My husband said to me the other day, your weight is looking good, but what are you going to do to try to get rid of the stomach. I wanted to smack him. Some people just don't realize losing weight is not an easy thing to do. Most of my problem area now is below the navel but I've still got a lot of fat to get rid of above the navel also. That's where I look like I'm pregnant at. Let's face it, like I mentioned yesterday, I've got that Santa deal going on. It's very hard getting the waistline and stomach to decrease in size. My hips and thigh weight fell right off, but from there up is a battle. My measurements might seem not too bad, but I am a small package with all the weight loaded on. With me there's about 2 feet of body that has all the weight, I look round. I keep thinking I wish there was some sort of stretch machine that I could get on. Stretch my middle section out to the top and bottom of me and that would be great. About 90 lbs. of my weight is located in my mid section. Wow! Talk about Santa resemblance. But I'm working on it, takes a lot of time and patience.
How are you Precious One? We haven't heard from you in a while. Hope you're getting along good. Come back and join us soon. We sure could use your support.

Well I'm going to stop rambling now. Need to get ready for my appointment. I'll post that article after this post if I can find it again.
Hope everyone has a great day. If some of you won't be checking in tomorrow I'd like to say at this time, have a very Happy and Safe Thanksgiving. I'll be back sometime this evening to see how everyone's day went. Have a good one ladies.
Stay Confident, Stay Motivated.
:grouphug:

Here is the article I promised in my post above.

NEW YORK (Nov. 21) - Are Big Macs hazardous to children's health?

Lawyers have filed a class-action lawsuit against McDonald's on behalf of New York children who have suffered health problems, including diabetes, high blood pressure, and obesity.

In federal court in Manhattan on Wednesday, a lawyer alleged that the fast-food chain has created a national epidemic of obese children. Samuel Hirsch argued that the high fat, sugar and cholesterol content of McDonald's food is ''a very insipid, toxic kind of thing'' when ingested regularly by young kids.

The plaintiffs include a Bronx teen who ate every meal at McDonald's for three years while living in a homeless shelter. Another is a 13-year-old boy from Staten Island who says he ate at McDonald's food three to four times a week and is now 5-foot-4 and 278 pounds.

McDonald's lawyer Brad Lerman insisted the lawsuit was a frivolous attempt to cash in on the Golden Arches, ''the kind of lawsuit that shouldn't be in court.''

''People don't go to sleep thin and wake up obese,'' Lerman said. ''The understanding and comprehension of what hamburgers and french fries do has been with us for a long, long time.''

McDonald's has asked Judge Robert Sweet to dismiss the case, arguing those who filed the claims cannot show their health woes were caused by Big Macs and insisting the company has never misled customers about its food. The judge did not immediately rule on the request.

Annie, thanks for your support. You are right that the McDonalds added to my stress. It seems like I am now almost obsessive about how disappointed I am. I guess I can understand better why a smoker might be so down on themselves when they quit and an urge brings them back. Like them I felt physically disgusting after eating it---although I have to admit the french fries did bring me moments of bliss--mind you so does rock climbing.

My shoulder is feeling a bit better today thank goodness. I wonder if it is psychological when it hurts like that!! Like an excuse or something. Anyhow, I think I need to get back on track with exercise because it is what makes me sane. I have had times where I have gotten off track with stress before and when I have exercise has always been my saving factor and not McDonalds. I have to work at 11am this morning so I think I will go for a jog and try this running thing slow and easy to see how I do. That way if my shoulder is truly tender than I am not pushing it.

At the gym last night I am getting to know a new girl who is fun, bubbly and energetic. She is also such a guy magnet!! What I discovered is that she radiates energy. I wanted to know how to accomplish this so I asked her. She said that exercise really helps her to stay alert. When she has blue or down days she thinks about it while she runs and the whole time says...I hate running, I don't want to do this, I'd rather be at home. But she said she pushes herself through those feelings and keeps going.

I was amazed. I told her that when I have those feelings I just don't do it because I CAN!! Big difference in thought processes!!

She said that this was interesting to her as she doesn't see an alternative to not doing her exercises because she knows that whether she likes it or not they make her feel good in the long run. Now I know why she is such a guy magnet---what a positive attitude!! So I guess she and also all of you will be my motivators over the next little bit! I sure could use it!! I guess I have trouble maintaining that overall vision of knowing that it makes me feel better in the long run--what separates the girls from the girls who are guy magnets!! I can't wait to get to know her more...I have a lot to learn.

I would like to say to everyone that you have all been wonderful supports to me. I have been turning to this group a lot for myself and sometimes don't feel that I give enough encouragement back. You are all wonderful people with very positive goals in mind. What a unique group we are! We should all be proud of ourselves for sharing our energy to build on things together.

Annie and Miki, I have one exercise in particular that if I do on a regular basis I notice immediate loss in my ab area and my waistline. It is like a miracle exercise for me and that is swimming!! Did you both know that in order to do a length of swimming on your tummy (ie. front crawl or stroke) that in order to keep your legs from sinking to a 90 degree angle it is your abdominal muscles working to hold them up??? So imagine now doing 10 lengths (which is even achievable with a flutterboard extended as far out in front of you as possible for a non-swimmer (and a good leg burn workout to boot!). Let's say that each of the 10 lengths is slow and takes a few minutes. That is about 20 minutes of abdominal focussed work where your abs have really had to tighten and or twist. That's more than any crunches could ever match!!

So my suggestion is that if you have a rec. centre nearby and you can go out to swim--try it if you think you might be interested!!

So that's my miracle exercise. I had no idea until my waistline narrowed that it was such a workout. A lifeguard explained that to me and ironically you naturally hold your abs in so that your leges don't sink because if they do, you might! So it is not even that gruelling hold the crunch until you want to cry type move. Easy on the joints as well.

I am off my speel now!

Thanks for the McDonalds article Annie! Let us know if you find out whether it gets thrown out or not!

cjunk

Good Morning Ladies
 

Last night I cycled for 35 minutes and burned of 360 cals for a distance of 10km....I consumed 1636 cals minus 360 cals for a total of 1276 cals. I need to focus on lowering my fat grams...its a little too high ...I average around 40 to 80 grams depending what I eat...although my cal consumption is usually 1500 to 1700 before exercising.....geez....weight loss for me has been very slow going...I think my fat cells are glued to me or something. I got on the scale and I am still 169....after so many weeks of exercising diligently and lowering my calorie consumption from 2000 to what it is now. But, I will not give up, I have lost inches around my chest, waist and hips....and even better, I feel so good, I feel strong....more alert...and that is amazing...I used to feel sluggish in the past.

Cjunk...everybody caves in once in a while...honestly, I have choked back of few burgers in my day and I am sure in the future it will happen again...we are human...and sometimes the triggers in our environment are so loud..we go into automatic and do what makes us feel better quick...I'm an emotional eater and binger....but like Annie says...try to identify with how you felt after eating the burger next time, McDonald's whishpers your name. McDonald's is still whispering to me and I know tonight I will have to keep my head down as I go by it to get to my bus stop...and I also smell the friggin McDonald's smell from accross the street on most nights....but I will remember how you felt after eating your burger because that's exactly how I feel when I cave in.

Lisa you are a cutie...very nice pic....and again,I agree with Annie..you must get to the bottom of your pain...you should not be living with this pain.

Looking forward to reading all your posts and to my american health buddies...Happy ThanksGiving...may your holidays be a blessed event....have an extra piece of white meat turkey for me:lol:

LadyRider, Reina_Mia, PreciousOne, MikiG let us know how you are doing and looking forward to hearing from you soon. I enjoy so much reading snippets of your daily lives...puts a smile on our face.

Just a suggestion to keep at the back of your minds...in about a year's time, we should set up a reunion somewhere in the middle from all of us and get together for a few days to meet and greet in person...that would be so much fun and something to look forward to...think about it and we'll get back to that soon

Cyan

Do we want to start a new thread for Jan 2,2003? ....since this thread is getting too long...called Exercise, Diet and Support #2...except this time, Exercise will be spelled correctly:lol:

let me know and anyone of us is welcome to start it.

Cyan

Reply to 11/26 posts
 

Lisa,
Nice to have you back. Sounds like you have a great plan for Thanksgiving. Enjoy, enjoy!
Lisa, my husband had his gallbladder taken out, but before that he was having really bad reflux all the time. I would recommend that you do go see an internist. It was going on for him for about 5 months, before we went in and his gallbladder was working at 10%... Make sure you take care of yourself and have that looked at.

Annie, your beliefs are very true, God only gives us things he knows we can handle. I am a firm believer of that, although it was after the fact, but I look back now and thank him for keeping me strong. I am sure you will get through this obstacle that God has laid down for you, but you are very right, you are a strong woman and determined is your name, so don't ever lay down and take anything. You are in my prayers and I know everything will be okay. I will also do an extra 10 minutes of Taebo just for you......

Cyan, OK, I did it, I took the plunge for you. I stopped at McDonalds and had a cheeseburger, and 1/2 of a small frie. I was in alot of pain last night, with a ruptured cyst and I just needed some food in me. I know it wasn't the best but...
I was in so much pain, I can tell you, it didn't even taste good.....
Bravo for passing up on such a bad craving....Been there, done that....
Cjunk - We are not perfect beings. So a slip is fine. The most important thing is that you acknowledged it. I too slipped, and I am done thinking about it. I won't look back anymore and I will drink lots of water and walk today!
:devil:McDonalds is an evil place!:devil:
I will catch up in my next post.

For Lisa
 

I found this info at http://www.realage.com/connect/healt...crs/bilcol.htm

Abdominal Pain from Gallstones (Biliary Colic)

What is biliary colic?
Biliary colic is extreme cramping pain in the right upper abdomen, the area just below the chest. The pain is caused by gallstones in the gallbladder (an organ of the digestive system) or bile ducts (small tubes that drain bile from the liver into the gallbladder and small intestines).

How does it occur?
The liver makes bile, a substance that helps to digest fats. If the bile has too much cholesterol, a solid particle forms and becomes a gallstone. Most gallstones are formed from cholesterol. Other compounds can also cause gallstones. The formation of gallstones is called cholelithiasis.

When a gallstone lodges in the bile ducts or the gallbladder, it causes abdominal pain (colic). The abdomen is the area between the chest and the pelvis.

If you are overweight and have a high level of blood cholesterol, you increase your risk of developing gallstones.

What are the symptoms?
Symptoms include:

extreme pain that can feel like a heart attack
stomach pain and/or nausea after meals, especially after eating heavy or high-fat meals
yellowish eyes and skin (jaundice).
The pain can last an hour or more. Sometimes it spreads to the right shoulder or through the center of the back from the top of the breastbone.

How is it diagnosed?
To diagnose biliary colic, the doctor will review your symptoms, ask about your medical history, and examine you. He or she may use the following tests:

Ultrasound scanning: a painless procedure in which sound waves are passed through the body. The echoes produce images on a computer screen and show the internal organs of the body.
HIDA scan and CT scan: Sometimes stones will show up on an x-ray.
Cholecystography: A special type of x-ray that allows the doctor to see the gallbladder clearly. Any gallstones will be seen on the x-ray as holes.
How is it treated?
Your doctor will treat biliary colic first with medicine and a low-fat diet. The doctor may give you pain relievers.

In most cases of biliary colic the stones will need to be removed surgically. Sometimes the gallbladder is removed. In some cases, especially if you are not well enough to have surgery, other options may be tried. For example, the doctor may try to dissolve the stones with medications. Or lithotripsy may be used to try to break up the stones with focused sound waves.

How long will the effects last?
Biliary colic usually continues until the gallstones causing the pain are gone.

How can I take care of myself?
Follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor. To take care of yourself during and after treatment, follow these guidelines:

Lose weight if you are overweight and maintain your ideal weight.
Eat healthy foods that are high in fiber. Avoid fatty foods.
Avoid foods that have caused pains or other symptoms in the past.
If you have gallstones or biliary colic and are taking birth control pills, you may want to ask your doctor if you should use another method of birth control.

What can be done to help prevent biliary colic?
To prevent biliary colic, follow these guidelines:

Avoid foods high in fat.
Read the labels on food packages to learn the ingredients.
Avoid fasting. Long periods of fasting can cause gallstones because the bile stays in the gallbladder too long.


I hope this sheds some light

Cyan

11/27 posts reply
 

Annie:angel:,
Thank you for your kind words. I am so trying to not look back at my past, and it is so hard, because of so many failures, but I am learning! In my 30 years, I have been given some big blows in my life:shrug:, and like I told you, God only gives us things we can handle. I know from experience. But you and everyone here have given me a renewed look on life, and obstacles come and go. You are a great person, and for that, you will forever be blessed.

Cjunk, Thanks for the swimming idea, I have a very large waistline and that is what I want to get down the fastest. I am so going to find a pool.

Cyan, you amaze me with you thorough account of your daily intake. I wish I can be as diligent as you. You are a strong woman, and I admire you for your dedication. :bravo:

I love the idea of a reunion next year. Sounds great.

Ladies, your are all amazing women and together we make one beautiful group(We are all some hot chicks, I think).
I wish you all a Happy Thanksgiving and I hope to talk to you all real soon.
Keep those scales steady this week! :yikes:
:wave:

Ladies,
I was surfing through the other posts and I came across this saying that someone had on their signature. I really like this and Annie, this is exactly what you were telling me to do.

"The greatest thing you have is the 24 hours you have in front of you. The past is gone, the future is distant. Today you can succeed. Set a goal you can achieve within the next 24 hours."

Also found this site, that tells you cals burned with every exercise imaginable.

Have fun

http://www.caloriesperhour.com/

1 hour of kickboxing is 686 cals burned.... I have a place that I can go to for $5 for 1 hour of kickboxing. I am so there on Saturday morning :jig:

One day till Turkey Day!
 

Hello all and good morning...or afternoon, I should say. Today is a good day so far. I went to the gym and did a Step Circuit Class. I always know it's working when I'm dripping sweat. It was great. I went to Subway for Lunch and had a 6 inch veggie sub with cheese and a diet pepsi. :)

I made an appt with the Dr today at 3pm. My specific Dr. is out of the office until Dec. 11th! So, I am seeing a different Dr. in the office. I don't see why she can't treat me and make decisions. She has my history and she is a Doctor, right?! :p

Annie, thanks for the information and advice. I'm planning on being firm and assertive. I don't know what it is, but I always go into the doctor and suddenly I feel like an idiot. NOT TODAY! :nono:

CJunk, your McDonalds story is so familiar. However, the last time I gave into my cravings, I was up all night in pain. We all slip at times. All you can do is pick yourself up and start again. Just like like falling off a horse.

For the first time in a long time, I'm feeling like a health nut kind of person. It's kind of fun. It's turned into a game to see how long I can go without messing up. The reward is how good I feel!
:jig:

Well, I'll post later and tell you how the Dr's appt went. Cross Your Fingers for me!!!!

Lisa:wave:

Good Evening Ladies
 

Tonight I cycled for 35 minutes for a distance of 10 km and burned off 366cals. My total cal consumption for the day was 1576 minus 366 for a total of 1210....total fat grams 44 grams. Fitday is such a nifty little program.

Anyway, I hope everyone is making wise choices...stay strong! Oh Yes, I was triumphant over McDonalds again...I walked by it on my way home...there was a line up today...the craving wasnt as bad as yesterday but McDonalds still whispered every so gently into my ear.

But knowing that I am not alone, that I have my buddies here keeps me on track...thank you so much...I feel that I am not alone...thanks for all your good energy...I send it back to you ten fold.

:grouphug: from the bottom of my heart

Have a good evening and I'll be back to post tomorrow morning as per usual. Somehow posting keeps me honest and motivated...hey whatever works:lol:

Cyan

:wave: Hello everyone!
Great minds think alike, dontcha think? About a week ago, I was thinking how much fun it would be to see each other’s pictures – then I see the same suggestion posted on our list. Yesterday while I was running I was fantasizing about a get together in the future, where we could spend a weekend talking and laughing and generally having a great time. Today I read Cyan’s post suggesting the same thing! Excellent! I say we go for it. Who would think seven people of varying ages, living in 5 different states and 2 different countries would meet and, even better, bond on the internet? Isn’t life great! :dance: By the way, cjunk, Hamilton is in Canada, right?

Lisa – I am so impressed…what a role model! You have this continuing pain and still you do strenuous Step Circuit Class, and then go for a veggie subway.

A late answer to your question from Lady the Nurse: Yes, the substitute doctor can treat you. Doctors can come across as authority figures and make it difficult four us to feel like an intelligent adult. Try to remember you are paying the doctor, thus she works for you. You have the right to her time, the right to ask questions and the right to demand appropriate treatment. You also have the right to find another doctor if the one you are seeing isn’t doing everything possible to make you well. Your job is to be as informed as you possibly can. It will empower you and you will feel more comfortable asking questions. And, by the way, if you don’t understand the answer, ask the doctor to explain it again. Then if you don’t like the answers, ask for more alternatives. You Go Girl! You are entitled to a resolution to your problem.

Cjunk – I think it’s great that you were there for your friend and resisted eating a second dinner. Don’t spend another minute beating your self up. :nono: Let it go. You slipped, you’re human. You are still winning this battle and besides, you didn’t order the super size! Tell you what, if you promise not to feel guilty anymore, I won’t beat myself up over eating that raw pie dough dipped in uncooked pumpkin pie today. Deal? ;) By the way, your new friend sounds awesome.

Annie – You really are determined! I'm so proud of you for being able to continually look for the bright side. I rode the bike 40 minutes for you last night. Hope I didn’t tire you out too much. Heehee.:lol:

Cyan – That info on the gallbladder was excellent. Good job! And like I said earlier, I love the idea of a reunion. What’s in the middle, Chicago? About starting a new thread -. I didn't realize there is a limit on how long a thread can be. On the other hand, a new thread for a new year sounds like a good idea.
Reina-mia - I like that quote very much. I will print it out and paste it to my bathroom mirror as a daily reminder. Thanks. Kickboxing! Sounds like fun! I saw a guy on tv this morning doing a work out using standard boxing punches, jumping and kicking. I tried to follow him for a bit and it was exhausting. I’m going to try to find his show again. He had tapes for sale, but I’m not about to pay $70 for a few tapes.

Miki – How are you doing? We haven’t heard from you for a bit.

I’m sitting here chuckling as I read about each of your trouble spots, and thought I’d add my 2 cents. For me it’s not my waist or my hips or my stomach, though they certainly are ample. I hate my boobs! They are WAY to large. I want very much to join the Itty Bitty Titty Club! :o Every time I resist food I think about getting down to a normal, or even better, a small size bra.

:soap: Soap Box Time: I think we all have the same problem – reliving our regrets instead of giving ourselves credit for our successes. It’s as if our failures – no wait, I don’t like that word- our mistakes are written in big bold letters and our successes are in teeny tiny anyone-could-do-that letters. Well! Time to turn things around, don’t you think?
I challenge each of us each night for a week to write down at least 5 things we did well during the day. Don’t discount anything.Honestly, some days just getting out of bed would make it to the top of my list! This will help us to focus on the positive instead of the negatives. If you like you can post your lists here, but that’s totally optional. What do you think – are you all up to it? :chin: :dancer:

Tomorrow is Turkey Day and I’m going to follow the advice of a very smart lady I know and eat turkey and veggies first.

Take care,
Lady
:grouphug:

I have a great idea
 

LadyRider....you said chicago is most likely the middle for all of us...why dont we all go to the Oprah show!:cp: We can write a letter from all of us...amalgamate it into one letter and send it in..we can ask for tickets...for next fall 2003....we can do this...it would be a hoot! Just an idea...Ladies...I'd like to hear what you think...all ideas on the table please

5 things that I did well today

5. go to work:lol:
4. eat within my range
3. exercise
2. post my thoughts here on this thread
1. hug and kiss my cat Cyan:)

Good night

Cyan

Hi everyone! :) First of all I have to say...altho I only missed last nite posting, I feel like I"ve been away for ages! Ya'll have no idea what a part of my life this is now. When I cant get time to get online, I feel like something is definitely missing. Like someone said earlier... as soon as something happens, I immediately think "Cant wait to get to tell the girls". It is the coolest feeling to know you're all here anytime for any reason.

I dont have time, once again, to address everyone individually. I hate that too because as I read I always have so much I want to add.

I love the "Oprah" idea. I actually came here in the first place after reading in the magazine "First" about 3 women who met on Ediets.com and lost weight together. The magazine a year or so later interviewed them all, flew them to NYC for a makeover, and at that time they all met for the first time in person. They inspired me the way they said they all met each day and not only discussed weight and health issues but life issues as well. They feel as if they are very best friends altho they are all hours and states away from each other. I chose 3FC rather than Ediets because this one was free. lol:lol: I'm glad I did now because there is NO WAY E-diets can be any better than this.:smug:

Yesterday wasnt a great day healthwise. I didnt exercise at all. Instead after supper last nite, hubby and I sat down and spent the nite playing boardgames with the kids. I decided doing that was a valid excuse. They are growing up sooo fast and I hate thinking that soon they wont have as much time for Mom and Dad.:( ( They are 13 and almost 11 )

I did my Air Walker for 35 minutes tonite tho and stayed within my calorie limits. Looking forward to tomorrow but will be thinking of all of you as I eat. I think that will help me not go overboard with it. (Bad thing tho is I have Thanksgiving tomorrow at my Dad's and then Saturday, we have it all over again with my Mom. ) I hope all of you, whether it's Thanksgiving Day to you or not, have a wonderful day!!

I really need to be going now, but one more thing....I have been amazed at all of you lately. Seems that everyone here practically has had some really hard times in life lately, I mean other than the weight issues, things more serious like losing loved ones, medical problems, etc, but everyone of you has such a great attitude and outlook!! Makes me really think when I start feeling sorry for myself about something. I know I sound like a broken record ( you are all old enough to know about records arent ya..hahaha) but every single one of you inspires me every day.THANKS AGAIN SOOOO MUCH!!!!:grouphug:

Hello!
 

Good evening ladies. How was everyone's day? The last time I posted, I guess I skipped the last page and hadn't read all of the posts. So, I was a little behind.

Cyan, thank you soooooooo much for the Gall Bladder information. I'm so touched that you found information just for me. It was actually very helpful.

I love the Oprah Idea. I love the reunion idea. This has really become a wonderful group. The pictures really help personalize it and I feel like I know you guys so well. You've all been sooo kind and encouraging. It's really exciting for me!

I went to to the doctor today. The Doctor was very concerned. She ordered some blood tests to test my liver enzymes and do a blood count. She is also having me set up an appt for an ultrasound. She also said I should probably stick to vegetables tomorrow! AAAAARRRRGGGGHHH!!! TOMORROW IS THANKSGIVING!

But...guess what!!??? Okay, In August, I started going to Weight Watchers. I started at 199.5 pounds. Today at the Dr.'s office, I weighed 182.4!!! That's 17 pounds!! WOW. I've been so happy ever since then. I feel great!:bravo:

I also want to apologize. I don't feel like I've been able to respond to everyone. I really want to me more of a motivator, instead of taking from you girls all the time, I would really like to give also. But hopefully soon my schedule will allow me to have more time to sit here. I really need you guys! This group has become very important to me in a very short period of time.

I will try to check in tomorrow to tell you all how I did with Turkey Day!

Lisa

Lisa,
Congratulations on such success with your weightloss. I really hope everything goes well for you with the doctors.

Cyan,
I love the Oprah show idea. Not that it would be a trip for me, considering I live in the heart of Chicago, but guess what, I know all the hip hot, and low-fat places to go in this town:cb:

I have to run and start making my desserts. It is 12:35am and I wanted to start at this time, to make sure I don't munch on them. I figured if I started when I got home from work, I would dig into everything later that evening. See, I am using this noggin for something.

Have a great Thanksgiving ladies,
:grouphug:

Happy ThanksGiving
 

Goodmorning Ladies...I can smell all those turkeys in the oven...with glazed carrots and mashed potatoes....pumkin pie...gravy...ahhhh...okay, I'm coming over:lol:

Have a great day everyone...make wise choices and I will see you all back here soon....looking forward to hearing how it all went...what you ate....details...lots and lots of details;)


Talk to you later

Cyan

Ya'll, I am soooo full!! lol I did eat too much but drank water only with my meal and passed up dessert. I did have turkey, dressing, augratin potatoes, mac & cheese, and broccoli/cauliflower salad. Doesnt the broccoli and cauliflower kinda cancel out the starches and cheese?? Hmmm...didnt think so. Oh well, new day tomorrow and I did exercise 20 minutes today before I went to my Dad's. If I get a little less miserable tonite, I plan to do more also. Hope everyone had a great day!!I'll try to post more later.....MIKI :)

Just finished logging all my foods in Fitday. My total calories was 1912! Not great but actually I was expecting them to be much higher so I'm not too disappointed. Burned 200 calories with exercise. I was shocked tho to find out that the broccoli/cauliflower salad ( it has bacon bits, cheese, green onions, and ranch dressing in it) had the highest calories per serving of all that I ate! Soooo...a warning, some foods can fool you. Just because it's a salad or veggies doesnt necessarily mean it's the best choice.

Lisa, dont feel like you need to apologize. I feel the exact same way you do. I GET 100 times more out of this site than what I GIVE. Just like you, I always feel I could be more like the rest of the group. Seems everyone is always encouraging and supporting me more than the other way around.

Cyan....even thinking about smelling all that stuff cooking now makes me wanna be sick! lol It was sooo good at the time tho.

Be back later...if not tonite, for sure tomorrow. Take care everyone!

MIKI :)

Morning Ladies
 

As the french say....J'ai la peau de mon ventre bien tendu! Which means....The skin of my stomach is tightly stretched!...all that turkey and side dishes. hmmmm

Anyway, I ate too many calories yesterday...and I didnt even have a turkey feast...I consumed 1845 cals, 57 grams of fat...I exercised for 45 minutes and burned off 466 calories for a distance of 12.6km. so in essence, 1379 calories is what the end total is after the exercises:dizzy:

Thank goodness for the exercising. And, I'm going on a business dinner and its going to be Thai...I love Thai food but I gotta watch out for those coconut green curries that I am so fond of.

Come back and post, post, post...I'm lonely here...Tell me how it all went.

Bye for now

Cyan

Miki
 

You did great girl....1912 calories during a holiday....amazing...I would so be over 2500 cals...easily...and you exercised amidst all that feasting...kudos on you. I think you may be ready to face Christmas and all of its offerings without "buying the farm!"

later
Cyan