Good morning--it's Friday!!!
 

Hi, everyone!! I am so-o-o glad it's Friday. It's been a very busy and hard-working week for me. I've decided that after work today, I am going to blow off the evening--that is one of the things I do for myself when I've had a hard week. I'll treat the kids to McDonald's (I'll have one of those new salads they are talking about--no junk, I promise) and make something very simple for hubby. He comes home late on Friday nights--goes shopping for an hour or two after work to miss Chicago's Friday rush hour traffic, so it's a girls' night at our house till about 8 p.m. Then I'll either curl up in bed with a book/magazine, crochet, or work in the yard.

Thanks, debee, for the suggestions of what to do when I am feeling need for "me" time. You hit a nail on the head for me that I never really noticed before. I too tend to eat when I am not getting time for myself. I am feeling very empty emotionally, and somewhere I think a full stomach is going to fix that. As a matter of fact, I did an alternative activity yesterday after a very frustrating day at work where I either had to struggle with every project I undertook or fix other people's mistakes. I also spent 30 minutes vacuuming our store and 45 minutes loading and unloading our company van with boxes of stock for one of our stores--lots of calories burned there--both very physical. I first made up my mind at one point that "tomorrow is another day" and didn't try to finish everything before leaving. I left work exactly on time--I usually don't do that. Then I went straight to the local Wal-mart to do some browsing and shopping for an hour. I would have liked to stayed there about 3 hours, but I had to pick up my kids at Extended Day Care at school. Anyway, I bought some pretty plants to put in pots on my deck, and it was good to be out alone for a while. I still wasn't completely better at home after a reasonable dinner, so I spent a few minutes telling hubby about my day, and then I went to bed and read/napped. I did much better at food for the day--only ate 2 cookies not on my schedule and had a bit larger bowl of cereal before bed than usual--I wish I could go without food before bed, but I can't sleep on an empty stomach. I did walk too in the morning. I tried something different with my weights. I will share in the upcoming days.

I wish I could keep up with the names of everyone here. I'm sure I'll get there soon. Here are some thoughts from what I read on yesterday's posts.

For the person hoping for a job at the hospital--the right job will come for you at exactly the right time. Just believe that and be at peace with it. I've found out that it all works out right in the long run.:goodvibes:

For the person having trouble with motivation and having a bad day with the food, just start over today. I don't know if I am getting anywhere poundwise or inchwise, but I made up my mind this time that I'm not giving up, no matter how messy it gets at times or even if I don't reach my desired goal. At the very least, I will be healthier and stronger--both physically and emotionally. DON'T LET DISCOURAGEMENT GET YOU DOWN!!!:wave:

Well, anyway, ladies, thanks for all your ideas. I'm going to try to put them to use today and get "newinspiration" from all of you!:grouphug:

Happy Friday Everyone
 

I love fridays..yes I doooooo! To bad its only 9.15am and that I still have a whole day of work...arhg!

But tonight we are having...yes...Sushiiiiiiiiii....yum yum and then we are gonna go shopping...I love shopping.

I played badminton last night and once again...what a workout..I also ate very well...having a greek salad..tomato, onion and low fat feta! drizzled with olive oil, oregano, salt and vinegar...sooooooooo good.

Well as much as I would love to post all they long..I'm afraid my work awaits me.

Good to hear that everyone is doing well and stay movitvated and inspired to do well

Have a great friday and I hope your weekend rocks too

Cyan

Newinspiration...Here's a little secret that I didnt figure out for weeks when I first started posting. If you click on the "Post reply" button and post from there rather than the quick post, once you're on the place to post, you can scroll down and see all of the last several posts. That way you can scroll down and read, then scroll up and type, then back down to read the next one. I couldnt believe it when I finally realized I could have been doing that all along. That's how I keep up with who says what and am able to reply individually. I dont always post to each individual tho cuz at times I'm too lazy:^: and at others I'm just too busy to take so much time. Anyway, hope that helps you.

Cyan, my workout tapes finally arrived!! Only 3 weeks past the time it should have taken but at least they're here. I did the Ab workout tonite. I'll let you know how I feel tomorrow. (if Im able:lol: )

Not happy with today's weigh-in...I was up a pound.:( Oh well, maybe next week. Still not giving up!

Happy Friday all....hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Miki

The Weekend--Finally!
 

It's finally here!! Boy, did I need the Saturday! Thanks, MikiG, for the info on how to work this screen so I can see all the recent postings. Normally I do use the Post Reply so I can use the smilies, but I never scrolled past the message I was typing, or even for that matter looked at the side scroll bar to notice that there was actually something to scroll to. :dizzy: I just tried it, and it was really cool! Thanks for clueing me in!! Now I won't have to rely on my memory and sticky notes! Also, hang in there with that pound. It will come off again. Just don't give up!

I am so proud of myself. I got take-out from Wendy's with my kids last night, and had a sour cream and chive baked potato and a caesar salad. I ate the stuff that came with it--dressing, croutons, butter, sour cream--but I didn't take any extra from the fridge (I had considered doing that). I did have one chicken nugget from the girls' dinners, but only because it was an odd one after nugget division between two kids. I did have two sandwich cookies in the evening and a reasonable snack before bed, but overall I did very well, considering the temptations I felt inside--won't go into it.

I didn't walk yesterday, but I did buy "WATP for Abs" 3 tape set with waist resistance belt. I considered not buying the whole set because I thought tape 1 might be too easy, but I thought I might use it for getting into the habit--that's the hardest part for me. It's only a 15 minute commitment per day, which I thought was doable to create a habit. The price for the whole set was ridiculously low too, which made it more inviting, not to mention that it is supposed to work on my big-time trouble spot--abs. I also think that it might give me an extra workout, as well as take the place of outdoor walking if I don't do it on a day for some reason. Well, I'll do it this morning before anyone else at my house gets up, and I'll let everyone know how it seems to be.

Thanks, everyone, for all your posts. I go on-line early each morning, and it's great to start with everyone's news and encouragement. Have a great day!!:D

Hello everyone!

Cyan, I went out yesterday and bought a Badminton set. I cant wait to try it out.

Newinspiration...I did the same as you. I just never noticed that I could scroll down. Happened to see it by accident and had to laugh at myself. I was working so hard to try to remember what everyone had said and who had said it and it seemed that everyone else could post forever in response to the others. It was nice to find out it wasnt that my memory was so much worse than theirs.:lol:

Well, so far I've done one day of abs and one day of thighs with my new tapes. Today is arms and I previewed it. I have a feeling it's gonna kill me. It's lots of pushups etc and I dont think I can even do ONE. I"m sore but not as bad as I figured. Of course, it's only been 2 days too.

Had a good day yesterday. Had lunch with my 2 best friends from high school. Just like old times. :)

How is everyone else's weekend going?? Anxious to hear from you all.

Miki

Reina...where are you?? I just realized it's been several days since we heard from you. I miss ya!!!

Miki

Hi, everyone!!
 

Isn't that bizarre? :fr::fr: I just bought a badminton set too--on Friday! Actually, I bought it so my girls could play volleyball in our small city backyard, and a 20 ft. badminton net plus a separately purchased volleyball will fit better than a 30 ft. volleyball net, plus be more versatile, since now 2 games can be played! Also the lower badminton net will give them volleyball serves that go over. I'm sure I'll get into the act myself at some point. I played badminton when I was a girl, and I'm not too bad at volleyball either.

Anyway, my weekend has been so-so. I got a lot of grocery shopping done Saturday and went to church in the evening, but I had a really bad headache :headache: all day. What I didn't know was that the headache was PMS, since I got my period last night, a week early. Such is my experience with perimenopause--new surprises all the time. That does explain, however, the craving for the ice cream cone the other day, the feeling of sadness/needing extra time for myself, and general ickiness I'd been feeling for several days this week.

Today was a much more relaxing day--and positive too. I took my 12-year-old daughter to a Music Competition--she plays the flute, and she won 1st Place in her division. :cp: Now it's true that there were only 2 other people in her section, but she was definitely the best of the three. I nearly cried when she received her award. I was so proud. She had never competed before. It was also the first time I'd seen her play solo. She never lets me watch her practice. On the way home, she wanted McDonald's. I had only a small shake, and when I got home some animal crackers--not too good of a lunch, but I'll get back on at dinner.

Anyway, I'll keep plugging away at things. Hope to hear from everyone soon. Happy Sunday! :)

Things like that happen alot in here. Many times I'll be talking about something with my hubby and come here and find out that's the exact subject being discussed here also..very weird but I guess it shows we're all on the same 'wavelength'..lol

Congrats, newinspiration, to your daughter. How cool for her. I bet she was excited about getting an award, and,I can definitely relate to being proud of your child doing well. Nothing better in the world than the feeling you get seeing their accomplishments.

I made it thru the arm workout today. I wasnt too great with the pushups but I managed to get a few in using the 'lady' style on my knees rather than legs straight out. They were still challenging even that way. Wonder if I'll be able to get around tomorrow.

Better run for now...need to keep moving so I dont get stiff from the workout.

Miki

I'm Baaaaackkk!!
 

Can you tell I didnt have a whole lot to do today? I've been online about 4 times I think. Anyway, just had a thought. Dont ya'll think we need a 4th of July goal?? Short term ones can seem a little more attainable. I'm setting a goal myself of a 5 lb loss by then. That's not even a lb a week. I'd love to lose more but as slow as mine has been going lately, I'd be thrilled to see 5 lbs gone. Anyone else have a 4th of July goal or wanna join me in mine??

Miki

Week end over time to get back on track!
 

Hi ladies,

It was a busy weekend... we went to the lake house and even though it rained all weekend it was fun. I love decorating and I am doing a "lodge" look in the house. The boys were fishing at the lake and made a wooden sailboat and tugboat. Foodwise, like most weekends it was not good! Instead of miki on my shoulder I had the pizza :devil: I also had blueberry and walnut pancakes!

I will try to lose a pound this week. :) I hope to take Miki July 4th challenge and be 5 pounds lighter.

Very tired...I'll post more on Monday.

Good Morning Lades
 

My weekend was pretty uneventful! It rained and it was cold too...argh!

I am glad to hear that everyone is getting in on the badminton wagon! You will love it and you will be surprised how good a workout you will get from it:smug:

Anyway..on friday I went to sign for my new car! I am getting a new beetle...galactic blue..which is a navy blue with a metalic tint to it when its in the sun! Wooo hoooo I am so excited..I get it sometime this week.

I have a busy week ahead too..tonight I go back to the car dealers to finalize my lease, tuesday I play badminton, wednesday my boss is having a wine and cheese, thursday I play badminton and sometime during this week I go pick up my car!

So lots of moving around which is good!

Miki good on you for doing all of that exercising...I am sure you will reach your mini goal of 5 pounds gone by july 4th

Debbie...dito for you. Glad to hear that you have a nice weekend at your weekend getaway in the woods!

newinspiration...looks like you are coming up with fun ideas to stay active. I find that doing sports and varying my exercises works best for me..otherwise I get bored and dont feel like doing it.

Well ladies..its monday morning and as usual, I am at work.

So have a great rest of day and week and I will pop back in late

Cyan

I think Reina is going on vacation soon! lucky girl! new job, vacation! Looks like she is having lots of fun

Hi everyone

Today is the day that my exercise tape is just 30 min of stretching. Felt pretty good after the ab, thigh, and arm days. Kinda works the soreness out. I've got to find time to fit in walking still tho because I really miss it.

Debee, sounds like a fun weekend! And the food sounds yummy too.:s: Time to get back on track now tho.:D Remember, I'm watching you!!;) Glad you decided to join me in my trying to reach a 4th of July goal.

Cyan, your car sounds sooo cool!! You must be very excited. I loved bugs even back in the old days.:lol: One good thing about your busy week, probably wont have time to overeat. I'm off alot in the summer since my kids are out of school and it's really hard to be home all day and not eat.

Well ladies, hope the rest of you are doing well. Miss you all!!

Miki

Good Morning Ladies
 

Not much to report..I cycled for 25 minutes last night so that was cool...I didnt want to really but I decided to drag my bum onto the bike and I am glad I did!

Tonight its badminton! I still cant get over how much of good workout it is...could be because I am playing against men..and they are pretty competitive...smashing that birdie at me and making me run to all ends of the court to return the shot! But thats ok...cause the more I move...the more fit I get and hopefully the more weight I will lose.

Oh...I tried on these shorts that I had bought a couple of summers ago...and they are slightly looser on me! :D So I am starting to see small changes...my clothes are starting to fit much better and I feel less uncomfortable in them too. You know how sometimes you feel like they are too tight or dont hang well...anyway...its all good! But the scale still hasnt moved...not really anyway! So that part is still very frustrating

Hey Miki...good to hear that you are keeping up with the exercising!

All you lovely ladies...have a great tuesday!

Cyan

I'm having a rough day!!
 

Hi, everyone--I took the day off work today. Actually I am at home trying to prepare for a breakfast meeting with my boss tomorrow morning where I'll decide whether I'll stay at my job or quit. Yesterday at work a number of big frustrations that have been building came to a head, and I had words with the boss. I walked off the job about 45 minutes before quitting time, and called her to tell her I was quitting. She asked me to take today off to think about it and meet her for breakfast tomorrow. I am spending the day today alone, writing a few proposals to present to her which I want to enact to ease the job frustrations I have been experiencing if I am going to continue. I won't go into it anymore except to say that my position is that of being her assistant in the office, and she is a very difficult person to work for. I am very nervous about this breakfast meeting. I don't want to be talked into anything I don't want, yet I don't want to be disrespectful and overly demanding. I just want some resolution to certain issues that have made my job difficult to do efficiently. I really don't want to quit. I like my work. I'm not used to standing up for myself, though I have been doing it more as I get older, and especially with the mood swings I experience with perimenopause. Lately sometimes I just speak my mind very openly and directly if I believe in something, especially if I feel I am being taken advantage of, and I really don't care who hears or what others think. I think that my biggest character flaw has been that I am too nice, and I have allowed myself to be walked on a lot in my life. Lately, though, that has been changing, and I think this is a situation where this change is showing up.

Anyway, the whole thing didn't make me go off the deep end with food, though some cheetos and 11 malted milk balls accompanied my lean beef sandwich and glass of milk for dinner last night. They gave me a stomachache. Really I am not very hungry. Actually, I am kind of knotted up in the tummy.

Well, anything, thanks for being there to get this off my chest to. I'll let you know what happens.

Hello again all...

Cyan, I am thrilled for you about the changes you are starting to notice. You're an inspiration the way you have kept up the healthier eating and exercise even when the scales didnt show it. That's the goal we should all be working toward...to judge ourselves honestly depending on how well or badly we've done instead of letting the scales be the judge. In the end, the hard work will pay off even when it doesnt seem that way. :)

Newinspiration, good luck tomorrow! Just think, by this time tomorrow the breakfast will be over and your decision will be made so try not to let it make you sick. I'm sure you'll do the right thing. Good for you for not letting the situation cause you to sabotage your eating.

Everyone else...get in here and let us in on how you're all doing! I feel like I'm the board blabber mouth as much as I'm in here.:lol:

Hope to hear from the rest of you soon!

Miki

Good morning Ladies
 

Hey Miki..thanks for your words of wisdom...that is true...I have kept plugging away at it and very slowly...its finally starting to pay off...but I have still a ways to go and will keep at it diligently!

good to hear that you are keeping up with your exercises and better eating too. Have you tried your badminton set? I played last night for an hour and 15 minutes and today...I have generalized soreness all over ...but I am happy cause that means that I got a good workout out of it.

hey newinspiration...hope your breakfast meeting went well for you...curious to find out how it all turned out. Stay strong, focused and motivated...we are all here to support you.

Lisa, LadyRider, Taiwan, Debee and Reina...who I think is on vacation...come back soon and post...I miss you guys!

Ok...as usual I am at work...so I best get back to it

later ladies

Cyan

Hi,

Sorry I didn't post for a few days...feeling overwhemled by kid stuff, house stuff, just lots of stuff! Well, it is raining again and I just can not get motivated to get bacjk to healthy eating and exercise. Miki that low carb high protein thing is not working for me...I think I am going to try the 90/10 diet my girlfriend was on and just try to move more during the day.

Today it was raining and iIfelt like cooking so I made a turkey, apple aNd cranberry sauce, cornbread stuffing, popovers and brownies for dinner tonight. I am also making a 16 bean soup that is low cal and healthy...must admit I had 3 popovers with butter today but sometimes it is worth the calories. This cold and rainy weather makes me so tired I just want to take a nap for all the afternoon. Maybe starting tommorow I will do some of my walking tapes or yoga tapes to get some exercise.

Newinspiration, hope all went well with your boss today.

Cyan, I am so happy you are seeing results! keep up the good work.

Miki, I'm glad you are the talker of the group I love reading your posts! What is your 4th of July goal?

Lady, lisa, deena, hope to hear from you soon. I think Reina is in San Deigo.

Hello everyone! Just a quick post for once.:lol: I am just too pooped to type much. Today was the "Bun Shaper" tape. My sis and I got up at 7 a.m. to do it. Tonite my hubby decides to do it also so I did it again with him. I also did my Ab Toner" tape twice yesterday. I'm really into this exercise. Just hope it lasts! I did give in tho and have a piece of my nephew's bday cake AND a vanilla ice cream cone today.:^: Good thing I did the extra exercise huh? Tomorrow is the day you're supposed to just rest..Yesssssss!!

I havent tried out the badminton set yet but plan to this weekend. Debee, that diet didnt work for me either. I hated trying to remember what kind of food I could eat when. Oh and my 4th of July goal is to lose at least 5 lbs by then.

Hope you're all having a nice day!!

Miki

Thanks, all!! It went well!
 

Hi, everyone, and thanks for your support!! The breakfast meeting went well, and I am still working for the company. My boss was very receptive to all that I had to say. We came to agreement on several issues which have been bothering me a great deal, and I basically received all of my requests. (They weren't unreasonable and actually will be very cost effective for her in the long run--I made sure to point that out to her.) There is an interesting irony that came from our discussion. One of the things I asked for was to have more marketing influence in the store where I work in order to improve business. I will have that, though it will require more time and work on my part in order to do the thing I want to do. The good thing is going to be that the structure of my work schedule and way I am paid is going to be changed so that I can do some of the paper work required of my job at home, which adds to flexibility for me. That is something I really need with 2 kids at home. It also relieves some of my stress on the job when I am in the store/office because I know that I don't have to get it all done there in a limited time period. I hated that pressure. Of course, I will have to add to my home schedule time to work on certain projects and keep a healthy balance between home and work, but I have no doubt I can do that. Plus, I have to make sure that I follow through on all the things I have told her I want to do in my job, but I know I can do that too. In the long run of it all, I also will be making more money, which is very nice. Actually, if this all works out, both she and I win!!

To relate this whole thing to food and such, I found it very scary to get angry (which I did at work the day I walked off the job), to stand up for myself, and to ask for something I wanted, and I even felt guilty afterward--though I think I'll get over that part. I know that I am an emotional eater, and I think that in the past I have often used food to fill me up when I felt empty over frustrations, unexpressed feelings, etc. As I've gotten older, I've learned that sometimes feelings have to be expressed and anger is okay. Like I said before, I didn't go nuts over food in this situation, though I had a few malted milk balls again last night. Again, they gave me this rich, yukky feeling in my tummy that I didn't like. I guess I'm making headway.

Well, during the last few days, I haven't walked at all, so I am getting back to that today. It's my kids' last day of school, so I am not going into work till they get out at 10:30, so there'll be plenty of time for me this morning. I've got to go now. Hubby's lunch has to be made in the next 20 minutes. I'll be back after my walk to post my July 4 goal. It will be related to exercise!

Thanks, everyone, for your good wishes to me. You all helped me get through several difficult days!!

;) ;) ;)

Good Morning Ladies
 

Well last night I had my corporate party..it was fun meeting all of our clients!But it made for a very long day.

I didnt get a chance to exercise yesterday because of back to back events. but I am sure with all that running around it all worked out well calorie wise

I am supposed to go play badminton tonight but I may have to cancel...just to get caught up...too much activity in one week for me.:tired:

Miki...you are the exercise queen:queen: Keep going...it keeps me motivated to see everybody here doing their thang!

Debee....put those popovers and brownies down...you dont want me to get on your shoulders about it...I weigh a lot:lol:

NewInspiration could to hear that it all worked out for you with your boss. Its nice to hear when hard working employees are heard my their bosses.

well you guys know it..I am at work...so have a great day ladies and stay on program

Cyan

It's me again!!
 

I'm back from my walk. I did 1 1/2 miles today. I was a bit tired. The extra quarter mile takes me a few times to get used to, but it will be worth it in the long run. That's my July 4 goal--to keep up with the 1 1/2 mile walk. I'd like to do it every day, but we'll see. Right now my goal is for 5 days per week. If I set a goal I can't meet, I get discouraged. But I know I'm ready for the 1 1/2 mile. It was such a beautiful morning in Chicago too. It has been so cold and rainy lately--very unusual for late May and early June. Today it was warm enough that I actually got a little sweaty while walking. And there were birds out singing and squirrels playing in the grass around the trees, plus a lot of other walkers on the track I use. It gave me a good start on my day.

I think I'm going to have to revise my Sept. 1 goal a little bit on the eating of sweets. I made my goal for a sweet only 3 days a week, but I find that I crave chocolate. I think if I'm really strict on myself with the three-day thing, I might eat more sweets than if I just allowed myself a tiny bit each day. So--that's what I'll do. I am going to give myself a tiny sweet treat every day--probably at work, when I'm burning a lot of calories, and see if that doesn't help. After all, I am learning a lifestyle!! Also, the protein/good carb snack in the afternoon--2-2:30--has helped me eat less at dinner. I've decided on 1/2 peanut butter sandwich on whole grain bread--a long-lasting energy combo for me.

Also, some other good news--I have lost one pound--to 169. I don't take much stock in that, though, because I've lost and gained that pound a million times. What is the truly good news is that on two of my bras--different ones, but I bought them together, and they fit at that time--I have had to move the hook over one notch because THEY'VE BECOME TOO LOOSE!!!!!:D :D That is so wonderful for me, because my bra sizes have been only getting bigger over the last few years. What a victory!! Something good is happening--I'm not sure what because I'm not comfortable 100% with the weights/walking routine, so I haven't been doing it consistently--but I'm happy something is working. Thanks for all your support. I know it has given me "newinspiration". :cp: :cp:

Another thing, ladies--I know I go on and on when I write my posts. I've always been a writer type (former English major/teacher), and my thoughts just keep coming. It also helps me to work through things to get them out in writing. I hope I don't babble on and on too much and get boring in my sharing. I hope among some of it all is something that helps you in your goals. I know telling you my story has REALLY helped me!! :grouphug:

To all of you: Have a wonderful day! Take care of yourself and work on those goals. I'll talk to you later. :)

Guess who???
 

Yes, it's me!!!!!

My home pc broke down, and I have been unable to get to email or the web. I am working off an old laptop so I thought I would get on and check to see how you are all doing.

Sounds like you are all doing good. Staying motivated and keeping up the challenges

I have to say, right now, I am keeping current with my weight, and I really haven't paid much attention to my diet. I have so much going on in my life, I just needs some stability right now. Once I start the new job and have a place to call home, it should be easier to get back on track

I will try to catch up on everyone's posts, and I will be back soon. I will be on vacation from this coming Monday until the 16th. So I won't be able to post during that time..

I will catch up with you all later today, I am off to the hairdresser!

Hi ladies :)

This week has been rough...I think it is because of all of the rain, I felt depressed, unmotivated and overwhemled most of the week. We are still doing some remodeling on our house and a complete redo on the lake house so I am stressed out trying to pick workman. The weather ...cold and rainy has been making me crave comfort food...explains the brownies and popovers. However, they are predicting a sunny warm day Friday and I hope to do some walking and gardening. I also decided today to treat myself with things I like to do instead of comfort food.

For example today I went to the bookstore and spent two hours looking for books of interest. I bought a spa cookbook, yoga and a book on fly fishing(something I would like to try as a hobby at the lake house), I also did my first transaction on e-bay ( I am addicted to live auctions but never tried e-bay until last night when I bought a smokey the bear items for the lake house. I started reading the yoga book and it is very interesting...more on the whole concept of yoga rather than just the exercise part of it.
I made a list of some of the things I really enjoy and need to make more time for...maybe if I am busy doing things I enjoy I will spend less time eating. Does anyone want to come up with their own list for the next month?

Things I would like to try to do in the next month.

1. Spend some more time with my kids..playing board games, going for walks, playing sports, reading, planning our summer activities together

2. More romantic time with my husband...meeting him for lunch, taking time for a glass of wine before the fire, scheduling a saturday night date night.

3. Time for me...gardening, painting ( I would like to make a pen and ink and watercolor nature journal) start making some scrapbooks, entertain some friends over the summer...brunch, 4th of July party at the lake, small dinner party, decorating the lake house, reading, sewing, yoga, taking walks, long bubble baths, buying new summer clothes in a size smaller, trying new low fat recipes. I think these things would make me very
happy.:D

Well my weigh-in is Friday and I have not shown a loss in weeks. I hope that I have at least not gained and maybe if I am lucky I 'll be a pound lighter.

Cyan, when are you picking up your car? I guess if I keep eating this junk food I'll be carrying both you and Miki on my shoulders. I don't mind I need the extra willpower!

Miki, you are just so motivated. By the way my mom told me that she was in the food store when someone robbed the bank in it and I thought it might be your robber who took a trip to Connecticut. Did they ever catch him?

Reina, hope your new job is going great. Have a wonderful time on vacation. Are you taking your son to lego land in San Deigo? I heard it was good.


Newie(I gave you a nickname) glad to hear that the meeting with the boss went well...sometimes it pays to be the squeaky wheel!
Deena, lisa, lady and hope to hear from you soon.

Owwwwwwwwww!! My hubby, sis and I are all hobbling around today like 90 year olds..:lol: That Bun workout gave me a sore rear end and legs. I can barely sit in this hard chair! Feels great tho knowing I did enough to get sore from..lol Good thing today was the 'off' day. Just hope we are able to do tomorrow's tape.

I ate too much again today and am disgusted with myself. I'm completely sabotaging all this exercise when I overeat. I know that so why wont I stop it?? I did fine until tonite. We had pork roast, mashed potatoes and fresh squash and I ate tooo much! It's not junk food I'm having a prob with...it's just my meal. Lunch is fine then at nite the last few days I've blown it. Making a vow right now that I wont do that tomorrow. I know I wont show a loss for sure which is my own fault.:(

Welcome back Reina!! I was so glad to see a post from you! Have a great time on your vacation and then come back and tell us all about it.

Cyan, you've had such a busy week, I hope this weekend you'll have some time just for yourself.

Newinspiration, way to go both on the outcome of your meeting AND with the loss of a lb!!

Debee, now I know you dont want Cyan and me both on your shoulders. Just one of us is enough but if we have to, we'll definitely both hop on! lol:p I liked your list of summer goals. I havent had time to think of mine yet. They did catch our bank robber, only an hr and a half after he did it but maybe your mom's is a relative of mine..LOL

Lady, Deana, Lisa....how are ya'll doing??? As soon as you can, find a minute to at least drop in to say hi! We miss ya'll!

Well, this chair is getting harder by the minute. I'm heading to the soft couch now...Bye all

Miki

Hi, everyone! It's 2:34 a.m., and I can't sleep. I had trouble sleeping this week with the work thing going on, and am struggling to get back to a good routine. I had a good day at work today, and even though I didn't take my pb sandwich for the afternoon, I didn't go nuts at dinner out of starvation. After work, I came home, ate a popsicle while I watched TV for a few minutes, and then fixed a reasonable dinner for myself and the family. I am trying not to get a cold. There has been one going around with all this goofy weather we've been having. I hate getting one. I get very sick with croup and laryngitis, and it takes about 3 weeks for me to get over it. It's just awful. And I can't take nasal decongestants because I am hypothyroid, and those OTC meds interact with my thyroid hormone med--make me dizzy and my heart pound. I was very motivated about the exercise this morning when I went 1 1/2 miles, and a cold would really throw the exercise routine down the tubes. Well, I'm going to be strong and fight it.

Debee, I think it's great that you are trying to find other enjoyable things to comfort you other than food when you need a boost. Someone told me to do that last week when I was using food to fill emotional needs.

Here's an interesting thought I've had over the years--don't know where I got ahold of the idea, Debee--this might help you: The place in my body that aches when I need my emotional self filled up is about in the area of my heart, chest, breast area. Am I filling my tummy--not too far from the other achy area--in an attempt to fill the emotional emptiness? I know I've done that 7 million times at least, and I used to be fooled. I thought a full tummy felt like a full heart/soul. But then later I felt emptier than ever, while at the same time having a real stomachache from the eating!!

Be good to yourself in every healthy way you can--get into a habit of doing nonfood things for YOURSELF that make YOU FEEL GOOD. I love to read magazines in bed when I am tired and down. Sometimes I read garden books or watch garden shows on TV, and think of all the pretty flowers I would love to grow in my yard. You can do it. You've taken a step in the right direction. I'm going to keep an eye on you. I'm not too athletic, so not much of a climber, so I won't climb on your shoulder like Miki and Cyan do, but I'm going to check to see how you're doing with filling up your emotional self.

My June "happiness and fulfillment" goals are as follows:

1. To spend more activity time with my girls--especially personal time with each of them individually. They're especially fun one on one--no competition or jealousy--I can really enjoy the kid herself.

2. To go to bed earlier so I can sleep better.

3. To read more.

4. To spend more short periods in my garden in the evenings after work--and break out the bug spray if necessary. (West Nile virus disease from mosquitoes was a real problem in Chicago last year, so we don't want mosquito bites!!!!!)

5. To spend more time with my husband just being together and enjoying each other's company.

Well, I'm feeling sleepy now, so I'm going to go. :yawn: Thanks for being there--even in the middle of the night. Bye for now.

woops
 

I clicked new thread instead of post reply...so if you want to read my post...its the one that says ...good morning ladies....doh!

ok...sorry about that

Cyan

LOL Cyan...I'll head right over to read your post.

I did make it thru my workout tape this morning but I have a really sore throat. Kept me awake alot last nite and not a bit better now. No other symptons, just that. Anyway, I didnt try to make it thru the tape again this afternoon. I'm just hoping I will able to do tomorrow's.

Newinspiration, hope you were finally able to get some sleep last nite. I should have been here too since I was awake also...lol

Well hope everyone has a great weekend.

Bye for now

Miki

Just a quick hello...I was able to get in my Thigh workout tape this morning but still have that yucky sore throat. I doubt I'll get in my 2nd tape today. Having a family get-together later on to grill hamburgers. Yummy! (if my throat isnt too sore to eat one)

Anyway, I'll check in again later..

MIKI

just checking in to say hi. I am still here, been busy. Will write more later.
Deana

Hi, everyone! Just wanted to let everyone know I'm not lost--just busy. I got a great night's sleep last night, slept in till 7:00 (I'm an early riser, so that's late for me), had a nice talk and coffee in bed with hubby. I spent the day running errands--bought my girls summer clothes--always an interesting experience taking them both out together--the two of them compete for my attention the whole time and fight with each other off and on all day when they're not being best friends. This evening my hubby and I went out to buy a new gas grill (the other one died after 9 years). Anyway, it's been a go-go-go day. Work has been going well (my stress level has decreased immensely since the meeting with the boss on Wednesday), and my eating is very reasonable. I did not walk yesterday or today, which is not a good thing, but I have to get used to the new routine with the girls being home from school. I know I will get it together because the walking helps me feel so good. Well, got to go--have to search something out. More later. ;) ;)

Deana, thanks for checking in! Missed ya!

Hope everyone is enjoying their weekends. I'm feeling awful. Altho my sore throat is better, I now have a constantly running and stuffy nose. :( I havent done any exercise today. Not sure if I'll be able to or not. I just took some Tylenol Sinus and hope it works fast! I hate having to miss my workout.

Newinspiration, glad you got a good nite's sleep. Sounds like you're having a busy but fun weekend. Mine has been pretty uneventful. Very lazy day today.

Cyan, we need to see a pic of you in that cool new car!!

Everyone else...take care and post soon.

Miki

Well ladies,
I am packed and ready to go! I can't wait to get on that plane tomorrow morning! Well, ok maybe a little, I don't like plane rides.....

Anyway, I have a packed vacation ahead of me, I am heading to Disneyland for 4 days, and then to San Diego to go to LegoLand, SeaWorld, and the Wild Animal zoo... Of Course, I will be having some relaxation time to myself as well..

I hope to be back on track when I get back..


I will catch up with you all the week I get back.

So take care and have a great week!

Reina, I'm jealous...your vacation sounds like a load of fun. Glad you came in before you left. You'll have to tell us all about it.

Just came back to say I did get in today's workout..yeahhh:cb: I actually felt better after doing it.

Nothing much else to tell...just a lazy day today and back to work tomorrow. I'll check in tomorrow nite.

Miki

Reina have fun on vacation. We were thinking of taking a vacation, but we are going back to the states in 3months, so there went our plans. Have lots of fun and pampering. Tell us all about it when you get back.

Miki--hope you get over your sickness soon. Make sure you are drinking your water (oh yeah, like I am one to say that at the present, not getting my water in, only 6more cups to go today!!). I have really got to start exercising. I use the computer too much!!!

Debee--could you send me that article you said you found in First Magazine. I am really interested in it.

Newinspirations--glad you got some sleep. hope all goes well for you.

Cyan--come on girl, show us your car!!!!

Well, ladies, I really should do some type of exercise. Maybe I can get Joshua to let me use the tv for a little bit:-) We are stressing about one of our fostergirls and what was said to her during her visit this weekend. Her family is trying to bribe her (she is 14yr old) to tell the police she lied to them about what her uncle did to her. They don't want him to go to jail and obviously care less about her. BUT her social worker thinks it's time for her to go back. GRRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!! Unfortunately, we know we are only going to run into more and more cases like this with the way today's society is going. God will give us strength I know.

Hey, anyone got any ideas about easy cooking? has anyone tried a specific menu and just rotated it? I have heard of people doing it that way. What about cooking for like weeks at a time? batch cooking? I think this is my downfall not preparing and planning. But what I don't get it that I had a small cantelope for breakfast (yes, it was small and yes the whole thing!!!) but I didn't get full and stayed hungry until my stomach ached and I couldn't take it anymore. Popped in some animal cookies (low fat!!) and decaff coffee with equal. Maybe I should go back to oatmeal for breakfast. I am a lazy person I admit. My name is Deana and I am LAZY!!!!!
So how far in advance do you all plan for dinner? I should ride my bike or walk to the open market (good points and disgusting points about it!!) and get the veggies and stuff. Oh, I don't know what to do.

Deana--back at 188lbs:-(
mostly fluid retention though I think

Hi, everyone! I am about to go for a walk--I think 7:30 will be my time, but I wanted to post before I go.

MikiG--great that you were able to get in some exercise even with that cold. When I get a cold, exercise goes out the window because I usually can't breathe, and then I have trouble getting back into it. It turns out that my cold really didn't materialize more than just some background noise in my life. Thank goodness! Take care of yourself, Miki--drink fluids--coming from another person who somehow has trouble taking in her own liquid.

Have fun on your vacation, Reina mia. It sounds like a good time!

Cyan--I'm going to have to go back and read that oops! post you did as a new thread because I don't have the scoop on your car. You must have put the info there. I'll read it tonight.

Deana--I'm in the same boat as you as far as planning meals goes. I'm really terrible at it, and it doesn't help that I get home from work at 5:00 and hubby gets home at 7:00. I just can't wait that long for dinner. I usually end up with leftovers for myself--sabatoge for my food plan, I know--the girls either eat with hubby after having a snack at 5, or I fix them something quick, or they fix something simple for themselves. Both of them are picky eaters--one more than the other, which makes for interesting planning as well. Lots of times I have no clue as to what I'm going to actually cook until the moment I go into the kitchen, and I know that's not good. If anybody has any suggestions for me too, I'd be forever grateful!!

Guess what, everyone? Last night I made a choice to eat for comfort (plumbing problem under the kitchen sink with dirty dishwater coming out of the pipe--GROSS!!)--another ice cream cone--even though I knew why I was doing it, and it didn't comfort me!!!!!:D I'm still sad this morning because hubby can't fix it till Tues. or Wed., but I am drawn to walking instead of eating this morning!!!! Small victories, I guess! Well, have a good day, all. I've got to find some sweatpants and gym shoes.:)

Happy Monday Folks
 

Monday Monday....they are so tough for me...I wish I could be sleeping right this minute! Snuggled under my covers...dreaming of hunky men...but alas..I am infront of a computer instead.

I didnt do any exercising over the weekend although I did heavy cleaning for 2 hours on sunday...I had a full sweat on so I am sure I got some exercising in...I also washed the car on sunday too cause on friday, I parked it under a tree and it got full of sap or something like it on my car...It washed right off!

Anyway, today is back to exercising! Oh I had a big mac with fries on sunday too:( but back on track for the week.

Reina...have a wonderful, fun and safe vacation! and come back soon to tell us all about it.

Hey Newie...good to hear that you are replacing your emotional eating with healthier choices like walking...keep going.

Hey Taiwan...its easy to stop exercising...if I dont keep doing it and let a few days go by...its always harder to start again. When are you going to the states and where?

Miki...how are you feeling today? and kudos to you for exercising through it all.

Well I best get back to work...gotta pay for the car:lol:

Have a great day everybody

Cyan

Hi ladies :)

Had a miserable day at work....worked from 10 a.m. til 7 pm. with my poor nose running the entire time! Feeling much better now tho...isnt it funny how just getting home can make you feel so much better??:lol: I even was able to get in my abs workout. Luke, my 11 yr old, did it with me.

Deana, doesnt sound like this is the place for you to get help with your meal planning. I'm awful at it too! Picked up Subway tonite mainly because I had no idea what I was going to cook if I hadnt. Every nite I go thru the ordeal of trying to figure out what to cook and half the time I dont have all of what I need for any particular dish.:dizzy: I definitely need to work on that.

Newie...I was dying for an ice cream cone last nite!! I really did want one but I was too lazy to get up to go to town and we're out of ice cream around here. You and Deana are right..I have GOT to start getting in my water. I'm terrible at doing that lately.

Cyan, I'm sure your cleaning burned some calories this weekend. House cleaning really is WORK. ( at least mine is cuz I let it get so bad before I get it done..lol ) I hope you had a good day at work.

Reina, I guess by now you're at your vacation destination. Probably out and about having a great time!

Debee, girl, where in the world are you?? Are you finally having some cheery sunny days? I hope so. I know how depressing it can be when it stays wet for so long and you cant get out and enjoy nice weather.

Lady, are you ok?? How are things going for you? I'm anxious to hear all about the new job and what all you've been up to the last month or so.

Lisa, are you back in school?? Time flies these days and I cant keep up. I hope you're doing well and can find a minute SOON to check in with us.

Well ladies, I'm tired and cant wait to pile up on the couch. Have a great day tomorrow!

Miki

Hi Ladies,

Miki, I have been battling a sinus infection for the past week too...by mid afternoon I have a bad headache and I am blaming the sinus infection and headache for my bad food and exercise choices this past week. Your on my shoulder --you need to start jumping on my head and tell me to stop eating junk!

Deena, are you going back to Delaware? If so, please come and visit me. For food suggestions I have a few...I try to plan only two or three choices for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast is oatmeal, whole wheat toast with jam, or peanut butter on english muffins, lunch is a turkey pita, hummus with carrots or soup, ...dinner is where I mess up ...I think it is because of my picky family..hubby is a meat and potato guy, kids only like three or four foods and most of the time by 5 p.m. I am stressed and tired to cook...either we eat out or pick on junk food or overeat. When I was loising weight I would grill chicken breasts on Monday and then use some for a stir fry on Monday, Wednesday for pasta and then for soup. By the way if you e-mail me your address I'll send you the first article and some recipes ..my e-mail is [email protected]

Cyan, heavy cleaning burns calories and it also gives you the double reward of getting something done! You are still the McDonald girl...stay away it is a evil place. Pretty soon you'll be driving that new car and you won't have to dream about the hunky guys ...they will be following you.

Newie, sometimes you do just need that ice cream cone... as long as you do not over do it.

O.k. you know I love lists and tonight I am going to write myself a list of the top ten reasons that I am over eating...if any one wants to make up their own

1. It has been raining so much that I have been inside more and therefore near the refridge.

2. Feeling overwhemled with house stuff and stuffing my mouth to feel I have control over something

3. Sinus infection has me not exercising because of the headache

4. Eating out more beacause I am too busy to cook

5. Not making good choices

6. Allowing junk food in the house again

7. Not planning my dinners

8. Mindless snacking in front of the computer, tv

9. not as commited because the scale is not moving

10. I am two weeks from my 6-month goal and instead of losing the 20 pounds by now I only 10 pounds and gained back a few. In january I was 141, my lowest was in April just before vacation at 126, now I am 129-130 and I can not get back in the groove to lose the next 10 pounds.

Ok once again I will tell myself that tommorrow is anothe rday and I will try again to stay on track.

Hi, ladies!! What a great read this morning! You brighten up my mornings unbelieveably with your thoughts and support. Also, I think it's cool that you have given me a nickname--Newie--I love it!!

Everyone's telling about the activities they do that qualify as calorie burning got me to do a little thinking of my own in that department, and what I do. Well, my job in itself is a workout. My boss calls the place a gym, and she's right. Unfortunately, I missed the unloading of the semi containing 4 skids of paper yesterday, so I didn't get a weight lifting session, but yesterday I did sell a school 125 summer workbooks that had to be lifted and packed for delivery. That's an arm workout. I also rearranged my workstation, which involved moving of furniture. Also, I do a tremendous amount of walking at work. If I am not working in the store--helping customers and working on displays--I'm walking back and forth between the store and my desk in the office (I must do that 20 times a day, at least). Last night I worked in my garden potting plants for my deck flower garden. There were squats plus lifting involved there.

I used the WATP 1 mile tape of the video set I bought, and I really liked it. I haven't figured out a regular time to use it, though. That's what helps me get into a habit--having a set schedule in which to do things. That's also why continuing the walking on the track in summer is such an adjustment for me--I have to create a new routine.

Debee--I completely relate to your dinner dilemma with the husband that likes one type of food, plus the fussy kids. It absolutely drives me crazy!!! :fr: :fr: I get so frustrated with the girls at times that I won't even cook for them. I keep several simple things from the main food groups I know they'll both eat, and when I simply can't take it, I tell them to make a "pick-up" dinner for themselves. ("Pick-up" means you go into the kitchen, pick up your own food--balanced with protein, carb, milk, and fruit or veggie is the rule--and fix it yourself.) Another thing I do, especially with my 8 year-old, who is the worst, if I've cooked something the other three of us (hallelujah!!) all like, is say--"there's the bread and peanut butter, the baby carrots, and milk--that's your dinner--fix it yourself." I am trying NOT to cook separately for everyone. It's not fair to me to have to do that. I think it's that picky eater situation that sometimes sets me up for portion problems when I eat the leftovers--because I don't want to go to the trouble just to cook for myself, and I don't want the heavier dinner I may make for hubby. Oh, if only everyone would eat the same things!!!

Well, girls, I'm hitting the track before work. Miki, take care of that cold.

Talk to you all later, Newie

Well, today went well again. Well, except for the pizza for dinner. We don't have any water. The city didn't tell us they were stopping water for awhile.DH figured that out (even our neighbors asked about if we had any water or not) and no one told me so I let one of the girls wash clothes. Well, no one got showers tonight and dishes didn't get washed and so we didn't have any rice (needed to clean the pan that goes to the cooker, plus wash rice). So dh decided to order out for pizza. Oh well. I did 20min aerobics, 10min buns, 10min abs all this morning (while a bat was watching me!! yes, there is this bat that comes back to our house, it was on our living room blinds--inside!!). Later tonight I went walking with one of the girls for 30min. hopefully I can stay on track somewhat.
Yes, going back to the states in Sept. for furlough (suppose to be a rest of somekind for missionaries, BUT missionaries are usually busy visiting churches to drum up support, and boy do we need it!!!). Will be there for 7months.
We had an earthquake today. Freaky, didn't panic as Joshua was in the living room with me. It was 6.5 on the scale and our county was the epicenter. Any earthquake brings back bad memories of the Sep 21 earthquake about 4 yrs ago now. Bad, just put it at that.
Ok, it's almost midnight and Josiah is not asleep yet. He was asleep and don't know if it was big brother that woke him up or what. Hope it's not going to be a long night.
Have a great day ladies.
Deana