Juno - Glad your cold is gone. I hate summer colds! I think your advice was right on the money regarding food intake. Another anology is that if you body is a car and you are making a longer/rougher trip - you need more gas and maintance :) It's so hard to not look at food as something that is "bad" but in essense all of it is fuel to carry out our tasks (some of course is much better than others!!).

Absmom - I truly don't even know how you do all that you do on as little calories as you consume. I know that the past month I have eaten over 2000 calories every day and have lost weight. If I ever eat under 2000, I am STARVING. I think the thing I learned especially this vacation is that I know how to not overeat anymore nor use food only as a reward to myself. My checkbook has noticed this since I have bought myself new clothes, jewerly, CD's, etc. over the past 1 1/2 years and no more guilt. I don't splurge anymore on "pie outings" or things like that. We used to have huge DQ nights here and now it is so rare that it really is a treat.

PW - I stink at math but I think I did the percentages right and from where I started a few years back - I have lost 25% of my weight and have kept it off. I think that one day at a time has been a slow going route but a more positive one!! You sound like you are going to have a great day - I'm jealous!

Okay this is the first vacation that I can say that most of my pictures turned out good and I didn't want to rip them up or delete them. I guess that is finally my mind getting in the right frame and realizing that I am pretty okay with how I look. I am still aiming for some more firming here and there but I can tell in these pictures that I'm doing okay. One shirt I thought I loved though will now be a daycare shirt as it made me look maternityish. Live and learn!

Yesterday it was so hard to run. I felt like a clam with legs if that can explain my ungraceful ploddiness!! However I trudged through and then picked up the weights and did some ST too. I am hoping tonight feels more energized and the lead has fallen off my feet. I honestly wanted to quit but talked myself out of it.

Off to clean up stuff in my office while the kids nap. Have a good Tuesday everyone!

Steph

Oh Steph/Juno/Painterwoman, I've been consuming some calories... Actually today I've managed to keep them to 1800 or so... Its still early, so who knows what could happen before bed. Actually, I've thought alot about what you've all said about eating to train... And I have - I dont' think I've looking at it quite that way, but I don't think I am eating what one would say is a "dieters plan". Bottom line is I AM FAT and I'm working out like a skinny person, but not losing any weight or much anyway... Like i've said before, there is no alternative, so I keep on keeping on...

I am going to focus a little more on upping the Protien (thanks for the tip) and see if it helps with the endless cycle of eating for eatings sake...

At least I am feeling more myself with the workouts. My run is progressing - I've upped the speed to 5 and ran a full thirty minutes without stopping and did 10 nautilus machines. The weather is HOT this week (finally) so swimming outside could be a reality by Saturday.

Are you an artist PW? Sounds like you are getting it all together. I am only 14lbs down, but exercising/training for a Triathlon in July. As you have read, I'd be happier if things happened a little faster... Patience is something I'm working on.

Steph, You are inspiring... Your approach to staying 5% is spot on... I hope when I get there that I will remember... Everyone has an OFF day running, I am sure the cinder blocks will be gone by the next time you run....

JUNO - How sore are you???? LOVE that BodyPump - hope you were able to make it and that you took advantage of being there to push yourself... Its all cyclical isn't it? You'll be back on track in no time and your body will thank you!!!!

Well, BED time for kids and I am not far behind!

Cheers!
Absmom

Hunger levels
 

I'm following a little known program called Naturally Slim (yeah, they have a website). The biggest revelation to me was...... (drum roll) to only eat when you are hungry. Level 4 is when you would eat the kitchen table or your pet. Level 3 is when your stomach is definitely growly, and you feel a little "peaked". Level 2 is when you have an appetite for something but are not physically tired. Level 1 is when food is around and if attractive enough you put it in your mouth. Level 0 is when you are full, but still eating.

If I remember to eat slooooooowly, I can stretch a snack/meal to more than 20 minutes. I also take a 5 minute break during each meal and drink water or listen to the scintillating conversation so that my stomach has time to tell my brain that I'm not hungry any more.

My body doesn't have to be afraid that I will starve it any more... nor does it have the opportunity to put a box=of=crackers worth of calories in storage (my hips, usually).

Yes, I love to paint. watercolors. When that is too complicated, I sketch. If I had it to do over, I'd probably go to art school.

Bummer... Just lost a nice long post - so reader's digest version... DD2 up all night, DH tried to help - but she only wanted MOM - delightful. I'm guessing 3 hours sleep...

BUT we're off to the gym as soon as naptime is over - hopefully that will be a while. Today is BIke Day so not a real tough workout... Just what I need --- I am most looking forward to my 10 min uninterrupted shower at the end (my little motivator). Tried to sign up for Body Pump tomorrow, and I am number 2 on the waitlist - That means stand outside the studio and hope someone doesn't show... Juno -Is this a problem at your club too ? This class is just SO popular, but it really is a great motivator. I don't think I've ever been sorer after a class.

Today is a lower cal day (I am back on my self designed Wendy Plan) 1500 is the magic number - trying to get in at least 40% protien. I won't weigh in until this Sunday - so hopefully the effects of vacation, coupled with my rampant eating these last few days will be erased and I'll be back on track. We're doing another practice Tri on Saturday (hopefully adding the swim) so I should burn some serious calories!

PW - Good for you! Watercolors are quite the medium... Your plan also sounds interesting, and I hope its working well for you. It definately lends itself to getting in touch with your body and what it needs... Something I will need to do if I am to remain in the 5% once I get there...

Steph - Hope you're back in the swing of things after your vacation. It takes me at least a week before I feel normal again. Your posts sound very upbeat - like you're really enjoying where you are right now - health and family wise.... I know we are always striving to improve something, but you show us that you have to stop and enjoy what you have...

Juno - Hope you are doing well with DH away. Are you able to make it to the club? How are you eating differently with DH away? I usually do much better for some reason...

Goals for today---
Bike 45 min, hills
Drink lots of water
Eat 40% of cals in Protien!!

Happy Wednesday all!!
Absmom

Goals for today -
1) Sprint runs / fast walk alternate
2) Quit eating!!! I think that is the only negative side-affect from vacation - munching!!! Possible plan is to feed all the junk to the kids - they can use the calories!!
3) My goal this week is exercise hard M-TH and then a long yoga session on Friday. Weekend - off!!

Absmom - I have always been positive and it has gotten me through a lot without therapy (whereas all my friends have huge therapists bills). Trust me there are days when I grumble and groan about everything but I would say the last 2 years I am in a better place. Kids are older, my business is established, good health, and just realizing that what is the point in getting worked up if I am not going to do something about it!

PW - The hardest lesson - eating when we are truly hungry! My biggest habit that I still have to break is reading while eating. I didn't do it for a long time but have started up again. But my one trick is to set the food out in front of me and put all bags/boxes, whatever away so I can't keep grabbing. This week I am not wining the munchie war!

Juno - Thinking of you and wishing my DH would take the occassional business trip :) He used to go but I am the only one that takes off these days (with kids in tow). I am still dreaming of my house in total quiet. Now that his mom is having all these health issues I am thinking of buying plane tickets and sending him off with the boys.

Back to work - I've got a lot to do.

Steph

Steph my dream fantasy is DH takes the girls on a trip for a week and I have the whole time to get things done and work on my own personal schedule. It is highly unlikely - the usual scenario is either we all go together, or, like this August, it is me and the kids on the road while DH lives the peaceful fantasy. I know I would miss them terribly but OH the things I would get done - plus the payoff - I still have Ta Da Syndrome you know. It is easier now that they are older though. I too am eating some things that aren't in my "usual" diet. I was with little D today waiting for them to put tires on my car at Costco, and we had time to kill - enter ice cream bars dipped in chocolate and almonds. You know me and almonds. It was a delish snack, but makes me more determined to finish the day on a healthier note! And to make the club!

PW I checked out the site of your program - sounds very sound and super informative. Do you go in person or are you doing the email program? Do you find there is support there from others? Have you met the company founder? While "structure" sometimes gets a bad name, I think that sometimes it is just the thing we need - even if only for certain times, like starting out with making changes. I have a degree in art but have never had the faith in myself (or lacked enough the need for a steady paycheck) so I've never made my living in art. I am a medical transcriptionist, quite possibly the most sedentary job ever invented!

Abs your perseverance is what will take you onward to success - it's you leaping back on the saddle that tells me you will simply continue on your course and get fitter and fitter. I am indulging some "dinners out" to make life easy for us, (yesterday was Subway, a relatively good choice, today was a Costco ice cream bar, not so good!) We are really out of whack because it is so light right now. It seems like I will think, okay it's time to make dinner, I will think it is 5:00 or 5:30, and I will look at my watch and it will be 8:00! The girls and I are all nite owls, I'm up to work in the quiet house in the mornings, meals are all unstructured and weird.

I DID make it to Body Pump yesterday. I lowered from my usual weight and so I'm not sore at all (I have managed one session a week during this unintended time away from BP - some time in the weight room evidently helped me not lose everything). It was an overcast day so quite crowded, but no, I have not come up against the classes being so full that they start a sign up sheet yet. That would be most annoying! But is a true testimonial to how effective the class is. I am going to have to miss the Thursday BP, so I am comitted to the Friday afternoon instead. Tonight I'm going to go to the club, at least for some cardio and abs.

I don't know why but I just can't seem to get inspired to pop in a fitness video.

Well, time to put all the goods away from Costco, then get busy in other arenas. Persevere 5%ers - and start again and again!

Juno

Hi All!

Hooray Juno! You are sounding quite motivated - BP and cardio. Its got to feel good to go more than once a week? I'm am SO with you on the video thing... I have to go someplace or it (exercise) just doesn't happen.

The thought of a house alone... hmmmmmmmmmm that is quite a dream, thanks for sharing. My DH still won't take the 2 girls anywhere on his own yet - The diaper thing, the potty thing.... geez...

Anyway... This has to be quick. I am an Amazing Race junkie and its on in 5 minutes!

Biked again at the gym today. all the machines were full, and I've caught your cold Juno! Tomorrow is a day off and Saturday another practice Tri with the swim added in. Should be a fun day - I hope.

Food-wise things have been going well/better these last few days. I definately think the heat helps... Noone feels like eating = except icecream and I have vowed not to hit the dairy until after the Tri... Again my prize...

Goals for tomorrow: WATER, House stuff (I still need to catch up from vacation) and get a good stretch in - I don't do that enough!

Hope you are all doing well. I'll be more thoughtful tomorrow!
Absmom

Hi and Happy Weekend!

Just got back from my sister's house where we completed a full Triathlon... did the swim last, but completed all distances... We really didn't time it, and we chatted lots, but We were done in probably 2 hours. I ran the full distance, but the swim (usu my strongest event) was awful due to this lovely cold AND swimming in the lake is much different than the pool. The fact that I couldn't see much with my goggles on really freaked me out... some kind of weird claustrophobia - could never seem to get a rhythym going...

I guess the mystique is gone - I can really do this TRI!! Four weeks til the big race!

Hope your weekend's are going well --- Juno I hope you get your gym time and Steph - do you run outside ever??? PW I hope you are keeping on track!!

I am off to mow the lawn and then a shower... ahhhhhhhhh

Catch up with you on Monday!
Absmom

Absmom - Good for you!!! I read this message last night and wanted to get on but I was on a computer and didn't have my password - sorry!! You have no idea how impressed I am by your success. I couldn't do a triathalon and don't even have enough ambition to try :)

Juno - Hope that you enjoyed the Mom & Daughter time and did get some stuff done. I just got a whole bunch of yard and flower work done so now I am hiding from the hot sun inside!

We have had a really nice weekend here so far. Yesterday we went to the "fancy" lake around here and took a 3 mile walk with tons of people. Walking in our neighborhood is quiet, walking in Minneapolis had more fun people watching to do:) I don't know if any of you remember how our dog almost died last year - she is like a miracle dog and not only did she do some really long walks in CO, she did the 3 mile yesterday. Then the naughty part was we went to the only beef stand up here in MN and gorged ourselves with some Chicago food. It tasted good :) THEN we went to Cold Stone Creamery and all had huge cones of fat-filled ice cream. I am behaving today but yesterday was probably 5000 calories. I like that I am in this spot where that was an exception and know we won't be doing it again for a while.

I grew up swimming in pools but up here everyone is used to the lake. I still have not gotten used to it (kind of creeped out by the whole thing). Not a very good match when you live in the land of 10,000 lakes.

On the sad front, my grandma did pass away last week but only one sister and my mom from our side made it to the funeral. I was around her a lot when I was younger but hardly ever since college. She had a lot of my first cousins near here because she moved to FL. Anyhow - she was a great lady and lived on her own at the age of 93 until she was struck down by all this stuff last month. I hope I can be as independent as she was!!

Steve's mom is recovering very slowly which isn't the best of news. She has to have another surgery in 3 or 4 weeks and no one wants to tell her that this one is even more invasive and recovery will be harder. We are afraid she won't do it which in reality means she won't be with us very long.

Okay I've got to get back and finish some tasks. I am doing them slowly and finding fun things to do in-between. I already had to take the birds, turtle, cats and dog outside so they could enjoy the weather too. That is a lot of work!! Now I have them back in and need to focus on other things! We are having company over the 4th weekend so cleaning awaits.

4 weeks to go Absmom and you are going strong!

Steph

On track. Yahoo.
 

It really helps to have DH2 be so supportive. DH1 was kind of snide. I've averaged more than 3#/week down (for a whopping two weeks:D ) and am :smug: :smug: :smug:
Managed to eat only when hungry today... drink ample water, tune up my road bike so I can actually be outside at dawn or dusk (too hot otherwise). Also rode stationery bike, played catch with DH (didn't know until this afternoon that playing catch works your abs!), and did some weeding.

Juno: Re Naturally Slim: I did the in-person class last year... "only" lost about 10 pounds... which was so discouraging, I promptly gained it back. :mad: I haven't met the actual founder, but it is her daughter that teachers the classes. The gal that does the e-mails is terrific.... sends you an excel spreadsheet so you can track actual weight loss against the goal plan. Marcia is a nurse and dietician (sp?) and thinks the best plan out there is Schwarzbein's... which was developed by helping people with insulin resistance and Type II diabetes... (She found that the traditional wisdom given to diabetics only made things worse....)

I am planning to be on this plan for life.....and it seems feasible because NO FOOD IS DISALLOWED. Combining foods is a little tricky... and no doubt maintaining enthusiasm for exercise will be a challenge for me... I've made it into a habit before, but always found some reason to quit.

I like the reasonableness of this thread. Thanks, all.

Quick hi, all! First I'll fill you in on the personal stuff - time is short so I will shamelessly lift this from an email I sent to a friend earlier:

We have put an offer on a house.

First we went to see a house that I just fell in love with in spite of a few shortcomings - I mean it was the dream that I have in my mind when I think about The House. Really, really It. And it was not priced too terribly, in fact only 75% of what the bank would okay for us. I know we would struggle for a couple of years, but in the end it would be fine, but it was way beyond DH's comfort zone. That house is, alas, not the house we offered on. So now I'm trying to focus on the negatives (I didn't really like the exterior, it is out of the school district over by the airport, not my dream area, next door neighbors had junky cars, okay I feel better). We went to see this other house that I had been avoiding - because I don't care much at all for the exterior and part of the set up. It is a ranch house that has had an addition put above the garage, so it looks a little ungainly in its "architecture" plus it is dark brown, not my favorite color (though that can be remedied later), plus there is no fence separating the neighbors behind it so it looks like a hugely shared back yard - again remedied with a fence or plantings (but why would people live in these houses for 2+ decades with it like this?)

But we did go see it and it is quite charming inside, doable if not the dream. There are a lot of plusses. The over-garage add-on is a really awesome family/living room that will make entertaining actually possible, the glacier is in view. It is not a fancy house but would adapt well to our style. Front yard is sort of shaded but the back yard and deck gets awesome light and is a canvas waiting for gardening.

So we offered on it - but there is also at least one other offer. We need to wait until Tuesday to see who wins the bid. If the other party can close quickly we will no doubt be the loser, as that house is empty so the owners will be anxious to close it, we need to get this one ready to sell pronto! So Oy.

So I'm in a combo mood - excited at potentially taking on a 'project' on one hand, some disappointment because I thought we would be able to pounce on the ultra wonderful type house and that really isn't going to be happening. Right now it is out of our hands! So stay tuned!

On the fitness front - I did an hour of cardio AND a BP class on Friday! Felt terrific! The weekend was more a blur of house-hunting, etc, not much actual working out. I am really feeling a lack of structure because of summer. We have light that lasts close to 24 hours so the mealtimes are all whacked out. Ineed to roll myself into something of a structured plan to get ironed out. I'm pretty stressed too.

PW I'm tempted to check out those emails! I checked the Schwartzbein book out of the library when I typed on one of my clients recommending it to a patient. It seems to take all the 'wisdom' from the Atkins way of thinking, but makes it safer for your body and also - as you say - a reasonable way of eating for life with no foods with bad juju - great choice. Hang in there and keep sharing! I love to hear about stuff like this. While I do like exercise - it does cycle some and when your interest wanes call it downcycle and soon you will reach for those walking shoes again.

Abs I am SO PROUD of you - and in awe! Not only did you accomplish it, you actually made it sound...fun! It must be terrific to have the bonding time with your sisters. The phrase You Go Girl is highly overused, but I can't think of a better one right now.

Steph I am so sorry about your grandma. Even when geography and time put distance between us, it's hard to have that goodbye. When my dad's dad died I lost my last grandparent in September 2001 - unfortunately after the terrorism, and he was sharp as a tack and totally understood all that was going on in the world. Anyway, I still feel connection with all my grandparents and I think the relationship continues if you are open to it. You know, I'm not a big natural-water person either. It is more picturesque but who knows what creatures are going to brush against your thighs? The exception would be the ocean in Hawaii, so clear. Then again, swimming in a pool is not my favorite either. On the other hand, doing laps with a paddle board would probably do wonders for the hips? An idea I have been pondering trying, because my kids would love being at the pool.

My final note is again to say, I need some structure. With the holiday coming it ain't going to get any better! Ideas?

Happy Monday and keep on keeping on, you are all doing so great...

Juno

Good Monday!!

I have to say that, because I am hoping that it will motivate me! After Saturday's Tri, I seemed to have checked out... We went to see Nora Jones (my first concert in a LONG time -- nice show, but very geriatric crowd), and I used my "night out" as license to eat/drink whatever I chose. One night OK, but it seemed to have crossed over into Sunday, and now here we are...

My weight has stabilized since we got back from DH's parents and now I really need to get it moving again in the right direction... My goal is to be in the 180s by the Tri -- totally do-able, but not if I continue on this vein...

SO - My goals for today and the week for that matter are to:

Work out with enthusiasm / intensity
Plan meals, write down what I eat
Drink at least 8 glasses water each day!

It will be a bit challenging with the holiday this Friday, but as long as I stay away from the wine I should be able to control my food.

I have to take the day off from the gym to go to my first mamogram (lovely). I feel a little stressed since I took yesterday off as well. Maybe I'll be able to get something in when DH gets home...

JUNO - Congrats on the house... I hope.... Every house has its minuses, but as long as its soundly constructed - you'll be able to make it your own... Space has got to win over aesthetics...

Good job with the BP and gym... I'd say with everything on your plate - vow to do ONE thing aerobic each day - even if its just a 10 minute walk around the block . You'll feel as though you've done something "structured" and you won't have to feel bad if you don't make it the whole way to the gym. That's my suggestion...

PW - Good for you!! You are definatlely making progress and it sounds like this is the program for you. Keep up the good work!

Steph - Sorry about your grandma... I still have both of mine - though neither are really that with it these days. They live close, but I'm finding it harder to visit them, seeing their personalities fading... Anyway, my condolences...

Sounds like you had a nice weekend. Great walk, and yummy food! It's nice to see that you are comfortable knowing that this was an "exceptional" eating day, and you're not beating yourself up about it... (I still do that). You've reminded me that I STILL have to get out into my flower beds and weed... I had one good day at the beginning of the season when I got it all done, but that was weeks ago... Its looking a little wild out there...

Well - enjoy your day! I'll check in tomorrow!
Cheers!
Absmom

Hanging in there. Had a brief visit to sugar island around lunch today. Have no idea where that willful food eating monster came from!:o

I know structure is often helpful. But I think structure for its own sake is mostly annoying. I find that if I have a desired outcome, the structure comes naturally.... My outcome tomorrow has to do with getting bills paid, riding bike, cleaning for the cleaning people (folding and putting away laundry) and seeing clients. I'll probably do my ride earliest while it's cool, and cool down by folding laundry. Want to get house organized tonight for cleaning lady.

Thursday off on mini vacation!!!! Wahoo.

Hello! I tried to get on this morning but the site was down and I had more time to type then. Today we had a b-day at daycare and since we only had 5 we spent the whole day at a really nice beach about 45 minutes away and then the kid picked Pizza Hut as his lunch treat. I know DH gave me a dirty look because I told him that none of us needed dinner tonight since we ate close to 2pm. He didn't say anything though so we've come a long way from when he would not understand why "dinner" was not necessary.

Ah now PW - I like structure :) Everyone thinks I am the easiest going person and I laugh because I am as long as my daily plan is not being compromised. I think it is mainly because of doing daycare - lack of structure here is usually a disaster. I am free on the weekends but M-F my outline is followed. I even had a hard time being at the beach because usually we eat lunch by 11:45 and we didn't til 1:45.

Absmom - I liked your workout with enthusiasm. Might steel that saying! I am just not trying to think that what I eat this summer will be harmful but on the days that I can eat the way I like to make me happy - I shall just learn not to guilt myself on the other days. Vacation wasn't that long ago and now our "party" relatives are coming up this weekend which means I am probably going to have the beer but hopefully will stay away from all the snacks DH bought. He looked at me yesterday when I was buying small bags of chips and I said "well you don't want them to get heart disease at our house - we can portion control". Stupid of me but I don't like having big bags of chips in the house! We shall both control our holiday food urges.

Juno - I have my fingers crossed for you!!!! This house which I pretty much love now...when we drove by after after going by 20 houses and one I had already decided on...I wrote "might be worth a look but don't love the outside". Well I loved the inside and we have revamped the outside so it is all ours now :) I walked in and this woman had decorated this house so beautifully and it is just a standard 3 bedroom trilevel but it met my specs because I grew up in really nice houses and was kind of shocked to find out I couldn't have one of those as my first houses. Now we can buy probably double this house but I don't want to leave :) If we stay in MN then we will move when the boys are in 8th and 6th because their friends would all go to the jr. high and we wouldn't mess that up. If we move out of state than anything goes :) I moved a lot as a kid so I kind of want some permanence so I hope only one more move while they live here. Keep us informed!

1) Keep competing against my times
2) Water and cut back on the soda which has been increased since vacation and I haven't cut back to my one per day yet.
3) Be flexible with my exercise schedule but get it done.

I have walked 5 times per week outside (in addition to my cardio inside) since last summer! I even braved all the MN winter nights this past year. Yeah!!!

I am supposed to be doing "things". Adios.

Steph

Quick note--

Crazy day, and crazy times ahead! We got a counter offer today, and we agreed to it, so we have a new house. We are going to put the for sale sign up in the yard on this one on Thursday.

I guarantee you that between packing, garden spiffing and adrenaline that my body will be humming along! Remind me to drink lots of H2O and to do relaxing stuff.

I'm not going to be able to post more than this, just wanted to share this much!

Tomorrow:

Vitamins
Water and herbal tea
Walk

I can't believe we got it!

Juno

Hi all!

Big congrats and positive moving vibes your way Juno! I hope your house sells quick and without any complications! I KNOW you'll be burning some serious calories over the coming weeks - moving is an unbelievable amount of work - but DO carve out a few minutes for you and take care of your body - WATER, WALK, good food choices...

Steph, if there is one thing that makes me nuts its DH bringing huge bags of chips and other assorted snacks into the house knowing that a) were not expecting company, and b) I am trying to lose weight, and c) noone in this house needs this junk... I tell him, buy yourself a single "big" serving for yourself and be done with it... He just doesn't get it.

I am structure crazy too... Don't mess with my gym schedule, don't mess with my nap time and I am good to go... I think the kids do better - no surprises and the days just flow...

I did work out with enthusiasm yesterday - ran 3.5 miles in 45 minutes (which included the 5 min cool down). It was a personal best for me - Yes, I am the SLOWEST runner... My form felt good and I think I can improve more by race day. Today I hired a babysitter for a few hours so I can swim near by and try to find a dress for a wedding I am going to on the 19th... I really HATE shopping when I am fat. It always ends up being too much money for something that fits and looks presentable vs. something I like that looks good on me... I really can't wait for the day I feel good in the fitting room!

On the food front, I am doing OK, although I know I can be more thoughtful --- too much mindless snacking - sneaking fries from the happy meal, eating dd2's cheerios, finishing the YoBaby, its all got to add up...

TODAY - mindful eating, WATER, work hard at the swim.

HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Absmom

Good morning... Its going to be a busy day!!! Play dates, gym, prep work for tomorrow's festivities, too much...

Yesterday I found a dress for 17$ that doesn't look horrible, and I don't feel like Ive made an investment in the wrong (current) body. TJ MAX - Jones of NY marked down from a lot! Hooray for that!! I also swam for 30 minutes hard and I am feeling it now. I bought some Speedo swim paddles to improve stroke and to provide resistance for a better workout and MAN MY SHOULDERS hurt this morning!!! Nice.

Today is bike day. GOing to try and continue on my vein of working out with enthusiasm - My goal is 45 min and 17 miles - That would be a new personal best -- we'll see how it goes. I am getting to that time of the month (I get the WORST PMS) so I am trying to recognize the cues (sluggishness, moodiness, cravings) and nip um in the bud before they take over my body! I am feeling a little like a slug today so I have to keep talking myself into a better state of mind!

Food side of life is not so great, but I will keep trying. I took some
"progress pics" this morning and was slightly disappointed that I couldn't see a major improvement. I feel great, I know I've lost weight, and I know I am stronger and fitter, but the fat is just there... I really need a loss soon! I guess I just have to work a little harder at keeping my mouth closed!!

Well, I hope you all have great holidays! We are off to my sisters house for a BBQ / swimming, Plus she's planned a 4 mile run !! Love those type As.....

Cheers!
Absmom

Go abs! Use those sisters, borrow their type A energy (but not the ulcers!)

I'm losing it. About the fourth day in a row of 4 hours of sleep or so. DH works during business hours, so I am the man when it comes to phone calls, banking, genralized hoop-jumping in regard to this house thing. Then add the holiday. Add that in my job/business there is no such thing as a day off for a personal day. Add to that my older D's birthday is Saturday and she deserves full celebration. Add to that this house goes on the market today and I would be embarrassed if a friend stopped by right now, not to mention a potential buyer. Not to mention that the family that helps carpool older D's flute class is out of town and that means I have to do more driving not less this week. And DH is having struggles at work and I'm being the Positive, Cheerleading, Look-At-The-Bright-Side superwife to help him get through it. Add the trip to Oregon for my brother's wedding. Add to that the closing date will be when I am out of town - more hoops for power of attorney, etc.

That is enough venting. As long as I just focus on only the very next task and not the whole deal I am and will be okay. But last night I really felt overwhelmed and then, sitting in my cozy office, felt enormous GRIEF for saying goodbye to my little house. 10 years in this house, it's the longest I have lived in any one structure. I wanted to undo it all and just stay here, live simply and make it work. Is that normal?

Not too much to say on the fitness front. Thanks to you guys I am concious of F/V and adrenaline, cleaning activities and lack of sleep are making me feel in fact thinner than I usually do.

Today:
1. Try for nap. (In my town the fireworks are midnight on July 3! Because it gets dark so late here.)
2. Eat with self-nurturing consciousness
3. One task at a time.

Juno

Happy 4th of July! I just got done painting mine and all the female daycare childrens fingernails in a lovely striped red, white and blue. I even did their toenails! I think all the boys here are feeling ripped off so I am trying to think of someway to do their hair without making it permanent.

We have company coming this evening so I need to get started on the list of things to be completed. I did all the errand running so anything else is just here at home. Actually most of it is stuff I will force DH to do. After all the new Harry Potter book is waiting for me at the library and why should I clean???? Just kidding - but I am looking forward to when my company leaves so I can read the book.

My goals for the long weekend are to try and behave with the munching because there is a lot of food here, drink water in-between the lemonade and beer, and take my oustide walks every day even if I have to leave the company behind.

Absmom - good deal on the dress! I used to find great deals on dresses back when I needed some. I will be having a tough time back in the work world because I have no clothes for any type of job but very casual. The last wedding I went too, I wore a dress that was way to large because I didn't realize I was smaller since the last time I wore it. Now I would have to get a whole new one (my closet would be happy). Have a great bike ride - I am so proud of your running, biking and swimming. You are already a true athlete in my eyes!!

Juno - Congrats on the house!!! You will have a great time making it yours. I am sure you have a million decorating ideas bouncing around in your head. Think of all the calories you will burn getting that house ready for sale! I know you will sell quickly - we have so many new neighbors in our neighborhood. We had so many people take advantage of the low interest rates and buy bigger houses. Your doing good keeping yourself in top mental and health stage during this busy time.

PW - I hope you are enjoying your vacation! This weekend will feel like one for me until Sunday comes and I have to clean up all the mess. The humidity gets bad here in July so I tend to stop riding my bike. I am going to try and stay focused and if I ride fast enough the breeze has to be there!!!

My husband is throwing a fit about the amount I bench press. I can get up to about 50 lbs. and that is really tough for me. He thinks after this weekend we are going to go out and toughen me up. I told him that I am fine doing my reps at 30 or 40 pounds and am not interested in 70 pounds. If you don't here from me next week it is because my arms snapped off while trying to show my DH that I can't do that weight (such negativity Stephanie, shame on you!!).

Okay I hope everyone has a great 4th weekend.

I forgot to mention Absmom that we are on the same cycle. PMS hits here starting today and only lasts through Sat. morning but of course we have company. I'm not really bad just really feel like I am bloated and look like a tub of jello and get really bored with everything. I was being naughty and trying to skip exercising by eating dinner first and telling myself that I'm too full now. However, I know that I will feel better if I just walk on the treadmill if I can't manage to run.

DH just walked by and called me E-mail freak. No honey I'm just avoiding cleaning and trying to let you do it all :lol:

Happy 4th again to everyone!

I ran outside - yeah!! My first long outside run on the 4th of July. My guests had put their dog kennel near my treadmill and I wanted to exercise (everyone sleeping) so I decided to try the outside. I think last time I tried was many years ago and didn't have running shoes. I ran from my home, through the wood path, around the pond and back home. Not terribly exciting news but no one else cares that I ran it :cb:

Go Steph!!!!
 

GO STEPH

:bravo:

What an accomplishment.

The first showing of our (current) house is in 3 hours. I have to make it look like no one lives here - but that Martha Stewart drops by from time to time to decorate it perfectly and keep it scrupulously clean!

It is also my daughter's birthday - (Happy birthday dear, no you can't do ANYTHING in your own house!)

Next weekend we rented a hotel 'family suite' so she can have a slumber party without house worries.

My fitness regimen still is adrenalin and moving boxes of stuff. I can't wait until things are 'normal' again. Did I tell you the house we are moving to is closer to the health club?

Dress sounds great abs! The attitude is seeing you through!

PW I hope you are getting some wonderful renewal.

Back to cleaning and stressing.

Juno

Hey Steph - Way to GOOOOOOOO!! So are you going to try it again or was this a one shot deal? Sounds like you are motivated .... Keep up the good work!!

JUNO - When we sold our DC house I spent an entire day cleaning and de-junking the kitchen. Doesn't sound like alot, but consider we had the SMALLEST kitchen in America! I know what you are dealing with and with the addition of 2 kids worth of stuff I can only imagine... My DH's analogy - for each lb of kid you have 10lbs of stuff! I am sure the Hotel will be a big hit! And, normalcy can only be a few ... months... away!? KEEP THE FAITH!

PW - Hope your weekend was great and your feeling FRESH !!

Ahhh the weekend - Did a little recreational swimming and got swimmers ear... Yuk... Not letting it get me down and working through the pain (its not that bad). Did a bike ride yesterday, long run on Saturday. Need to step things up for the race in 3, yes 3 weeks. Need a shot to the diet scene as well. Have stayed the same since coming back from the in-laws... Uggh!

Goals the same WORK WORK WORK, DRINK H20 and Eat thoughtfully.....

Happy Monday!
Absmom!

Yeah I'll run again outside - I might be running far away from this house very soon due to all the crisis that seems to be happening :) I am still breathing deep and not panicking about anything but there is always the potential!

My goals are to mix up my workouts more and not follow my little 3 week charts that I make. I need to make one more flexible and really mix up my workouts. I am going to stick with the running for cardio but want to do weights with more body resistance training too. I just feel slumped right now with the weights. I also need to pull my bike down on the weekends and ride more. Food is just average here - can't seem to get back in my great habits since vacation. No one else would beat up my eating habits - just me. Soccer is almost over here so I will have my nights back to myself for a while.

Lot's of things swirling around us - biggest thing affecting us is that DH has to drive at least 1/2 way to TX (we are in MN) and get his mom's dog so we can look after it for a while. I have a 110 pound dog that probably does not want a canine roommate. Oh well - sacrifice until we see what is going to happen. His mom has been in ICU for 3 weeks and it should have been one. I don't like to think the unpositive but I am wondering if the dog will be living with us permanently. We all know I have a zoo??? A small creature would have been okay. However this is the one thing we can help with so I shall grin and bear it.

Yuck on the swimmers ear! Hope it is gone. Absmom it takes me 12 minutes to run my miles so I am not fast either!!

Juno - I've moved over 35 times in my life - I have survived all that boxing and cleaning and know that there is always an end and that life will be fine and fun again!

PW - Hope you can hop on and tell us about your holiday!

Daycare land is nice. I am getting paid FT yet I am missing kids every day who are with grandma, with parents, etc.. Today I have one out of 5 that should be here. We are getting errands done since she is older and can be bribed with eating out :)

3 weeks for Abs big race!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi All!

Swimmers ear is GONE, and I'm training like crazy. Hit the weights hard Monday and today. Today was actually supposed to be a day off, but it was raining and DD1 asked if we could please go... she's got quite a social club at the child watch. My goals today are to continue on as I have been, Drinking Green Ice tea, and being more concious about writing down what I eat... Why is vacation such a mental hurdle when it comes to eating/getting the routine going again??? I just can't seem to motivate myself since we've been back --- 2 weeks ago! I am going to work on this too...

Steph - My heart goes out to you and your family. A dog is certainly a big committment/responsibility, but like you said -- its something you can do for your MIL so far away... I hope everyone gets along for now and your MIL gets well soon. Exercise will keep you sane....

Good to mix things up. I just got the new Shape mag --- great Ab routine that I've started doing... After DD2 I really need to focus more on the middle... By the way, I broke 12 minutes on Monday for my first mile (a new personal best!!) Have you seen the NIKE commercial with the 51 year old Masters Champion who runs a 5:10 mile? Now there's something to shoot for......

Enjoy your relative quiet on the work front Steph!

Juno - Hope all is going well for you - Don't stress too badly - and PW hope you check in soon to let us know how you're doing!

OK - I am wasting valuable nap time... TOday is DH's b-day. DD1 and I have a cake to frost and salsa to make (the dinner request is my famous fahitas).... Lots of chopping..... Hope all of you are feeling motivated and taking good care of yourselves....

Happy Wednesday!
Absmom

Back from MO. Crabby. It was hot and humid... so we spent more time indoors than I wanted to. I could have done that at HOME. Should have worked out in fancy schmancy hotel gym... except I was afraid to see fancy schmancy men/women working out. (I still feel like a tub). An Old tub, too.
DH and I did walk/mosey 3 hours at Zoo.... sweat city. Besides most of the animals were lying comatose under bushes.... so we didn't see much. Had a better time with sketch book and iced mocha at Borders.
Definitely want to get weight center/home gym.
Maybe tomorrow I'll have a better outlook.
Sorry to rain on your paradel, all.

Hi All!

PW - How about picking some mini goals with us each day and move forward? You can do it and it does well for the mind/body! Everyone has a blah spell - you'll bump out of it soon!

Today I had another personal best - 3 miles in 35:55 --- That's barely sub-12 miles, BUT its nearly 2 minutes faster than my last personal best last week (did you get that?). I can tell you that pre-gym I was SOO unmotivated, but then I started running and .... rest is history... You know when you just have one of those days when things just click!!!???!

I ate cake last night for DH's b-day so I am glad that I burned some good cals today.

DD2 is screaming.. Guess the pm nap today is a no go.... Oh well

Still need a kick with the food thing, but exercise is AWESOME...

Steph - If only I were in MN I could run with you... Hope you're doing well! Juno - Happy packing?!

Cheers!
Absmom! 17 days.......,

quick quick quick hi

packing is getting boring. We can't "really" pack yet just clear out clutter.

new house: eng report went very well. moving forward

current house: on market, no offers yet

fitness: club last night, mostly adrenaline.

food: not too bad, now that the 4th celebrating is over

time: none

keep the faith all

Juno

Okay Juno you got your point across - reminds me of a poem just because it is written on the run. Go Go Go.....

Absmom - You keep on beating your personal best records - You Go Girl!! :cp: If we were running together you would be pulling me along (in otherwise I would be holding you back!). I took yesterday off because it was the only "peace" night I have.

Juno - Packing is fun for a while and then it starts to suck! Of course it is worse when you have the truck there and you are not done (or the truck isn't there when you are ready). Keep up the good balance - good things will come your way.

PW - We all get in a glum mood and a hot & sticky vacation would do it for me!! I was annoyed when I got back from vacation and the weather was humid and horrid here. We went to San Antonio a few years back and I had a horrible time trying to enjoy it just because I do not like that weather. Dry heat - ha ha! I think our TX relatives our insane :)

DH is off tonight to retrieve dog, tonight is the last time we have two soccer things in one night and then we have one game next week - done!! The weather is like fall here which is so odd but that is the good old midwest for you. Now I am finding out I have no kids tomorrow so now I am wondering if I am going to TX since he is really busy at work. Maybe I will just keep my mouth shut.

The city rebuilt our park the other day - yeah!! Funny how it took us like 20 hours of hard sweat from 15 people when it took 2-3 guys with power tools who knew what they were doing to re-build it.

I need to get dinner started - everyone hang in there!!!

Steph

:p I can see it is about time for a new thread...

Just checking in to tell you that we got an offer on our little house. Looks good, will accept it tomorrow.

Back to work and sleep. Thanks for understanding my sparse posting...

Juno

Excellent Juno!!! Now you can really start packing!?! The worst thing for me... The stuff left-over that you either don't know how to pack, or what to put it with... Like the junk drawer times 10! Hope you are happy with your offer and things are SMOOOOOOTH...

Steph, I would say... Don't offer to get the dog - Your DH was planning to do it and don't you need a break??? Let the plan stand....

Today I am taking a day off - My major type A sister has planned another run through this Sunday, in our new "Tri" suits (I feel like a sausage). I figure I'll need to rest up so she doesn't kill me! (She had to one up me on the run... 4 miles in 35 min...Just wait til I lose this bag of cat litter I've been carrying around with me - Then I'll show you!)

I am planning a SLIM FAST regime for the next 10 days and then regular eating before the race. I really need a kick on the weight loss front. I'm stalled and out of options other than to sew my mouth shut. Lets see how things go...

And now, we're off to the Y for DD2s swim lessons.... Short nap for dd1... Oh well...

HAPPY HAPPY FRIDAY to you all@!#!
Absmom

I'm still here.
 

Mini goals are an alien concept... but I accept the challenge... I missed my July 4th lost ##'s challenge, but hope to be there by this weekend, then lose 3#/week til labor day.

Oh, and we got the home gym screwed/bolted/cabled together. Am rediscovering areas of my body that I haven't thought of for 10 years. Hope to be able to see my toes without using a mirror relatively soon. :-)

Also doing my own version of Sugar Busters via Naturally Slim..... After work out this evening was actually happy with a salad... and a little chicken. No oreo, triscuit, bagel or quesadilla cravings. Miraculous!

Am planning next vacation to compensate for St. Louis steam bath.

Regarding insane Tx relatives.... they may be... but I have to admit this is an easy place to live and you don't have to plug in your engine in the winter.

Hi all.......hope everyone is doing great!

PW - oops you're a heat-loving Texan :) I used to love heat until my mid 20's. I am a FL born sun goddess but can't stand it these days. Maybe I will like it later in life. I have never had to plug my engine in and can't remember my car not starting any time in my adult life. I don't love winter either (thus someday I will be posting from the NW part of the US). Mini-goals are very tough to set in the beginning but I think things like putting up the home gym (I know that is a lot of work because we have a huge one in our garage) and the #'s per week are good starts. Think of obstacles to make you meet those pound goals!

Absmom - I used to work at a packaging co. during highschool and even though it was in the office - I can't stand slimfast because they always had it in production and everyone was drinking it or just the smell from the plant - yuck!! DH was drinking it here in the spring and trying to make me take a sip. Couldn't understand why I just couldn't try it. How was your Sunday run???

Juno - Any bites on the house yet???? Sending lots of energy your way but I am sure that you are so psyched that you have plenty of stuff to keep you hopping!

Things are fine here. I must have been depressed last week because my grandma actually called to check on me because she felt my e-mail was very much a downer and she thought that was odd. Kind of annoying that I can't write a venting e-mail without people being worried. I admit I don't complain much outloud and my sister that doesn't like me calls me Mrs. Happy. I think I was just being lazy and eating bad food which just contributed to the grumpy mood. The dog has moved in with us and is doing fine. He is pretty enjoyable after a first 24 hours of him not sleeping and being upset. Now he sleeps at my feet and thinks I am great :) DH's medical bills are piling up even though we have insurance. I am trying to figure out how it cost as much to have a daytime surgery as it did to have my kids. Of course we have to meet the deductable and will probably hit the max out of pocket (which makes me crabby). Hate giving my money away like that when I feel I pay plent in insurance! One of my cats has cancer but outlook is good. He is 14 and the lap cat of the house. $$$ signs are just going off in my head. Next week on vacation I will be making my kids sit home all day. No things aren't that bleak, I just like having extra in my checking vs. it being down at the bottom. I have savings but you know if you take from it - I tend to be lame about putting it back!

I am trying the a.m. exercise thing again. I did it successfully last year for a few months. I need it to I am making DH call me at 5:15 for the next few weeks to make sure I am up. He forgot the first day (but I got up anyhow). Today he remembered.

Great week to all!!!!

Steph

A quick hi -

The house sold last Thursday, which was just one week on the market! The people were shown the house at 1:00 and the offer came at 2:20. They offered a little more than we were asking. That is how nuts the market is! Now it is just wait for engineers and appraises while the banks satisfy themselves, I guess.

Hey - when I lived in Anchorage I DID have an engine block heater for winter - in my little Datsun I drove in that era! Down here in Juneau things are much more temperate and my bet is that abs and Steph have harsher winters than we do here! I'm with you on the heat - I'm a total wuss about it. But I'm also with PW as I don't like it when it gets bitingly cold in winter. Give me temperate any day.

Formal exercise is still iffy - once a week at the club? But I feel pretty trim and fit right now. Perhaps the secret all along is to move houses all the time - shall I write a book? Food is pretty good too. I have revived my addiction to diet soda, which bothers me, but that's my biggest complaint right now. This weekend my older daughter and I are going to participate in the Relay for Life which will mean a LOTTA walking, and for a great cause! So I expect that will be a good push for exercising too.

There is so much to say but of course no time to say it. Things have settled down since we no longer have to make our house Martha's house.

Todays goals:

Protein protein protein
veggies veggies veggies
water water water

Have a great day and keep the faith you 5%-ers

Juno

OK. Goals:
2.5 lbs/week
DAILY exercise... can be gym w/ weights or walk or cycle
NO binges or secret eating.
Slow eating
WATER WATER WATER

SAB-- The first time I went to Fargo ND, when DS was heading for Concordia language camp, I thought the car rental place had drive in movies... because there were engine plug stands at the front of every parking space. I'd never even heard of the need for such a thing. Glad YOUR cars always started. Texans think anything near freezing is, well, freezing. Of course when it freezes here there's usually a slick coating of black ice on everything that makes driving very exciting.

If I could live in any climate, it would probably be San Diego or Santa Barbara... but I've been in Texas so long I sound like I belong here. (Scary!) Don't care for intense heat without ocean waves in the background. Haven't every had to live in snow country. I suppose it wouldn't be too bad if the internet connections, UPS/Amazon, Schwan's still worked!!

Hey all - Life is crazy this week... --- Big congrats Juno... Good job PW with the mini goals, new gym, etc. -- My choice for climate - Monterey CA... Lived there 2 years and loved it... Never rained and 65 all the time. If you wanted snow it was a 3 hr drive, if you wanted HOT Salinas was 30 minutes away... Kind of the best of everything. I am an New Englander, who hates the winter----just skip the whole thing...

Ended up just doing the swim and bike on Sunday, and haven't had the chance to run this week... until tomorrow when its our last together workout. We're swimming and running. Can't do it until late 6:30 pm so I am not expecting my best workout ( I am a TOTAL morning person). At least I am going.

Had to go to a very sad funeral yesterday. Friend from HS lost his ex-wife, MIL, and oldest son in a car accident. His youngest son survived but with pretty severe injuries... SO sad... I've been feeling pretty blessed to have my life the way it is right now...

Steph - glad the new dog is working out... Funny how fast they adjust. How's the am exercise working for you... Hope your stress levels are lower and you are feeling better than your last post indicated...

I have pretty low motivation this week, but thank god for DD2. If there's one person to get me to the Y, she's the one. I have an out of town wedding this weekend so I know I have to workout hard the next two days. Next week its light workouts and the big race on Sunday. I can't tell you I anxious I am feeling....

On that note, Happy Wednesday@@!!

Eat thoughtfully, chase it with H2O and run, run, run!! ( or pack pack pack -- for Juno -- enjoy your walk)

Ciao!
Absmom

I am only hopping on to wish everyone a great weekend! Good luck on your trial race Absmom! Hope you find it easy with those mini-goals PW! Glad you sold the house and it is all moving so quickly Juno!!!

Picnic and parks today and after nap I am on vacation for 9 days .....yeah!! Not going anywhere so I can write some long posts next week and bore you all to death!

Steph

Steph the vaca sounds great. Make some goals and keep us posted!

PW the small goals sound good - but always be kind to yourself. That is a big part of our success I think!

Abs, hope the slump is passing. I agree it is great to have some built-in inspiration (DD2) for working out!

If last week was manic, this week is logy. The weather changed and I "came down" from all the excitement. I feel that I didn't use the time all that wisely in terms of fitness and house chores - but maybe I needed the naps more!

We leave for Portland on August 8 (Shorty where are you?) - I am going to write out a goal plan to be at my best for the trip. I will come back home in the middle and close the houses, then go back down only to come back in 3 days. Oh well I will have some miles. For fitness, the Relay for Life is Saturday. I will be walking. I am also thinking of it as sort of a kick-off event for reentering normality?

Lots of work--

Juno

Hey All!

Hope your weekends were restful. DH and I went to his cousin's wedding in PA, my mom kept the kids... Nice to get away and feel grown up again...

Unfortunately, the mail greeted us when we returned... BILLS are stressing me big time. DH took a pay cut with his new job last August and frankly, we haven't gotten used to living at his new salary... Car insurance, nursery school, I don't know how we're going to make this work... UGH....

I am dying to get to the gym this morning, get rid of some of this stress, zone out for a while. This is gentle work out week - slow runs, swims, bikes... Lots of stretches.... Race is SuNday.... I know some of my stress is related to that... Got on the scale this morning, up 2lbs... The same weight I've been playing with for the last month... ugh.........

OK - enough...

I'll post more tomorrow - hope you are all much more 5% than I am !!! Enjoying your time off Steph???? I'm sure you;'re counting the days til your trip Juno! and PW - hows the new gym working out????

Happy Monday@!
Absmom

Absmom--
I haven't even LOST 5% yet (am aiming for 50... so there's a ways to go.... I like this group because the intention is to be the 5 % that KEEPS it off, even if it is a challenge...

I certainly eat wacko when stress is high... You're doing awesome to maintain within 2 lb AND stay OP with your fitness plan.

You'll find a way to manage (or create a completely NEW way to manage) DH's pay cut. A dear friend here is facing the same challenge: kids in and on the way to college, much lower salary for husband who got caught on the downsizing carousel when the internet/telecom industry first started deflating, and less part-time work for her because one of her employers has leukemia.
With nursery school kids, your worries may be a normal part of solving life problems... something that is hard and frustrating when you first begin, but that becomes rewarding, satisfaying and maybe even routine, once you get the hang of it.

Hope and Help is out there when you expect it... (and are a diligent searcher. Best wishes.

Maybe you'll join the 5% of US residents that aren't in hock up to their eyeballs. Wouldn't THAT be responsible!!! (Who told you that it would be easy? :lol: :D