The 5% Club - CLICK
 

Hi everyone, it is a late Sunday post. I can't keep my mind on work, and I have a crazy day tomorrow. Lots going on in life - met today with parents who are going to try to get the middle school principal not to be such as *&#$@* jerk, which might require going up even past the superindendant and board. Conflict is not my thing, so I hate wading in but then again there are times you need to take a stand. This week should be the last of the super heavy materno leave coverage - though the baby is sort of colicky and I assured Carrie that I will be standing by to help her workload for as long as it takes...

Exercise is great, though it did not happen today. Food is fairly well clicked in! That Wendie plan is good as a rough guideline. It seems easier to have a light day knowing that it will fluctuate. I don't agree that it has to be scientifically exactly the calorie amount they say: I use it as a guideline. This morning it looked like 2 lbs down of the 5 I want (contacts weren't in). I feel thinner and less pudgy in the rear.

Thinking a lot about the volume of food lately, more than the traditional calories etc. One thing about myself, maybe you share it, is that I do pretty well just living my life, not grazing all the time or snarfing food - but that when I start eating I'll more or less be eating on a roll, and often by the time I'm done I've eaten more than I intended or wanted to - or needed! I read somewhere that it takes 20 minutes to feel the fullness. Well I eat pretty quickly, and can consume an awful lot before 20 minutes ticks by. So my goal right now is to not go for seconds or lots of extras until I let that pass, always with permission to go back in for more if I'm really hungry. So far satiety seems to be setting in, and giving myself to eat more in 20 minutes if I need to seems to be working.

You know, then my weight is where I like it one of the things I like best about it is that I feel my FACE looks a lot better and a lot younger - someone remind me never to gain again!

I'll make this post brief. Just trying to get a new thread going and to end the day. Tomorrow is a holiday but I have a lot going on.

Goals for tomorrow:

Med cal day
Water water water
Exercise at club or neighborhood walk.

Next weekend I'm involved in a big event with the basket biz. I'm still involved with that (I think I mentioned before.) It will be really fun, but also quite demanding considering all the other time constraints happening. I feel like life will sort of settle down a wee from tomorrow. I need to take it easy on myself until then - if I don't make it to every single workout to just get through this and then life will be more normal (for a while anyway!).

Take care my friends.

Juno

Thanks for starting the new thread Juno! Good luck with the principal. That's the one person that need not be a #$% jerk... Perhaps he's in the wrong profession??

I share your problem of eating beyond intention or need. I'm going to concentrate on that this week. Portion control, but without being obsessive (scales /measuring cups are no way to live for me).

I think my face is the first place I lose weight, or at least it is the first body part that people actually comment on when I lose. I guess its all the good eating and water that kills the bloat. I haven't been on the scale (and its killing me). I feel pretty good, so I am anxious to know if the scale reflects that... June 1 seems so far away !

Well, the weekend plans got messed up. My mom has some kind of bug and didn't want to pass it on to the kids SO no sitter and no workout with the sisters. We're going to swim this Friday together and see where we stand with that. Of course my type A sis called to let me know that she ran 4+ miles yesterday, and she's worried that she won't be able to keep up with us.. (?!) I'm the one who's scared. In the pouring (buckets!) rain today I ran outside for the first time. I measured out 2.5 miles and gave it a shot. My legs felt SOOO heavy, gross. I ended up walking probably 1/3 of it, BUT I finished. I've decided that I need to get outside a whole lot more before this race, and cover a whole lot more mileage wise...

Three things for TOMORROW:
1. Light run - minimum of 2 miles and weights or body pump
2. Light food day
3. WATER - GREEN TEA - WATER

Happy Monday to you all!!!

Absmom

Hi,
I barely had a chance to sit down and use the computer and really shouldn't be sitting down now but I am making this a priority so I feel complete today :)

We had a nice weekend but it was busy too. We had 3 van fulls of rock to put up the side of the driveway and around the front of the house. We dug the hole, did the plastic, planted 3 new bushes, and spread rock. What fun! But it looks lovely. Now we have the other side which we will probably get to next weekend. I got a lot of exercise hauling those bags of rock around. I thought I would be really sore but just a tad bit yesterday. We went to the movies, had a lot of outside time and did the BBQ thing. Now I am working!

You can see the puffiness in DH's face is gone and I used to have a double chin that drove me nuts and I am pretty sure it hasn't show up in any pictures lately. I am really going to try and rid myself of the extra weight around my middle before I go on vacation in 3 weeks. I can be tough and eat good.

Goals for today -
1) Yoga for 40 minutes
2) Dog walk even though we have two soccer things
3) Water Water Water and no white carbs for bkfst/lunch

I can not run outside Absmom - I am fine on the treadmill but my feet are really sloppy on pavement. I was thinking about running outside because I am running more gracerfully but still need some work!

Juno - I don't like A's teacher and am waiting until the end of the year to say something. She asked about daycare at beg. of year and I said probably not ....she asked again in spring and I told her that it didn't look probable....she has been semi-rude ever since!!!

I need to get craft ready and get myself in daycare mode. Have a great day!

Steph

Happy Tuesday!

The sun came out after 5 straight days of rain so I had to forgo the run to mow the lawn. We're on for another 3 days of rain so it had to get done..... I body pumped at the gym today and honestly I am still sore from last week. I tried to tell myself that the soreness was good and pushed to finish strong! I will pay tomorrow I'm sure!

Food was awesome today - I kept to a really low day for me (1150 cals). I am terribly hungry though, so it will take all of my willpower to keep out of the kitchen tonight. I really want something dramatic on the June 1 weigh in to go along with all the training I've done. That's what will keep me going right now....

DH is out edging, the kids are in bed and I am ready to sit back with some tea... Things are really "clicking" these days for me and the family. Its been so hectic since the baby was born and I honestly had a LONG winter - feeling fat, unattractive and trapped! The sunshine today, and just feeling like I am moving in the right direction has done tons for my mood and well being!

On that note --- tomorrow's goals:
1. Water Green Tea and more water;
2. BIKE and/or Run outside (hopefully I'll feel better than yesterday).
3. Medium cal day with no white carbs (1500 or less)

Hope your weeks are going well!
Ciao!
Absmom

PS - Juno - I think you;ll be able to track me during the big race. We'll have the computer chips around our ankles for the race, just not sure yet if it will be "live" or if it will just be posted after the fact. In any case, you'll be able to find out if I finished...

Quick check-in for me - the wind is blowing outside and I feel like I am in the midst of a hurricane (with sunshine though). I have had so much dust and crap in my eyes. Why I haven't been smart enough to ponytail my hair is beyond me!!

1) Water Water Water
2) 3rd day of very low white carbs
3) Only one more day left of my exercise routine !

I know it's Wed. but it feels like the week is closing already.

Absmom - 1150 calories would KILL me. I swear I have never eaten that little. I would lash out at the world. Plus I suck at counting calories! I am sitting here feeling frumpy and fat when I should be happy as all the new shorts I bought last year are falling down.... I feel that I should see a great difference in the size 18 me and the size 8 me.....but I only see tiny things that have changed. All of a sudden I hate my middle section!

Juno - Isn't it sometimes so annoying to be the nice guy :) You can't turn down helping a new mom with colicky baby and I have two new mom's who were supposed to keep their older kids home more......both have changed their minds on that. I don't care I had just envisioned a lighter work load at the end of May!

Off to the real world!

Steph

Hey all !

Unexpected sun this morning, but the chance of more rain for the afternoon... My poor daughter needs to get outside!! I need her to get outside!!

Steph, this lower cal stuff is definately for the birds... If I wasn't so freaked about losing some weight before I have to dawn the tight workout gear for the triathalon, I might not be so restrictive. However, I can't bear the thought of being 200 lbs on race day... Besides, I am going to be training alot harder in the coming weeks and cant bear the thought of hurting myself (knees most especially). I have three more days before the big June 1 weigh in... Next week will be a med cal day...

Sounds like you need to go shopping! Shorts falling down? I guess we all have the "bleck" days, but you've got to know in your head that you are exercising and doing positive things with your diet... 100 crunches for the mid-section!!!

Juno - I hope things are going well for you, and that the load is lightening up a bit... Positive vibes your way!!!

I am feeling a little anxious today, may be the coffee or something else??? Today is a dreaded big run day at the gym. My goal is 4 miles or 60 minutes whichever comes first... Yesterday I did my first "brick" workout -- ran 2.5 miles and rode the bike for 11 miles. Kicked my butt! Thought I'd pass out before I left the building... I'm not sore today, so I guess that's saying something...

Goals for today...

1. Cals under 1500
2. RUN RUN RUN RUN and RUN some more...
3. Water Green Tea Water and more water!

Happy Thursday!
Absmom

I feel like I am sending out an SOS. This week really TONS of work, no workout for the last 3 days, food is literally foraging in the kitchen for things one doesn't have to cook. Then there is the event over the weekend. I'll sleep next week.

I'm going to go off topic so I can say I entertained you. After all we are all moms. Last Saturday I had a mortifying experience :o
I'm too busy to post properly so will cut and paste from the email I sent to a couple of friends, and then will simply stand back for your pity:

We had play tickets. The play is “Up” a world premiere at Perseverance about the guy in California who attached balloons to his lawn chair and went 3 miles in the sky (real guy who did this in the 1980s – character based loosely on the story). Perseverance Theater is a very well regarded regional theater, a real plus to living here in Juneau.We thought it would be fun to take the girls to a real, adult play. At first DD#2 wasn’t into it so DD#1 invited her friend DD#1’s friend – at the last moment DD#2 decided yes, she wanted to come along. So off we went for the big night. First we went for a rare treat: Dinner at the the cool, trendy downtown restaurant.

At the theater, I took a few moments to remind the girls, especially DD#2, that this was theater, not like a movie – please use the restroom because you can only go during intermission, even the tiniest bit of sound is Not Okay. We could hear the actors doing voice exercises (it is not a musical but they were doing the mi-mi-mi stuff on the stage before seating), so we also talked a lot about voice and intensity and character, etc. At one point, DD#2 seemed a tad rowdy while we were in the lobby so I had her come sit by me and DH – “Just sit here, you need to be still.” DD#2 then says, “My stomach hurts.” I’m thinking, Sure! The minute I reel you in and tell you to be mellow, all of a sudden your stomach hurts! Right!

We enter the theater, set is fun. We are sitting in the third row on the left side, and we have 5 seats across – great seats for how the stage is set up. The play begins.

In the second scene, DD#2 gasps a little bit, leans forward and vomits what seems to be about 5 gallons of hot reeky spew onto the floor in front of us.

Then she did it a second time.

DH quickly gets her up and out of there (so much for you can’t leave until intermission). Later I learned that she ralphed one more time on the way out.

I’m left sitting with DD#1 and DD#1’s friend. The actors are unaware and the scene is continuing. I whisper apologies to the people in front of us, but am in shock. I look behind me and everyone has their coats over their noses. I realize I need to be in the lobby. So I, too, violate the interimission law!

Well, up in the lobby DH has DD#2 outside. DD#2 feels fine, must have been something she ate. House manager is gracious: Would we like to come back tomorrow? It’s clear DD#2 won’t (rightly) be allowed back in. I explain that I have two 12 year olds in there, how to get them out? We determine DH will take DD#2 home, I’ll go back in at the scene change, and stay for the play with DD#1 and DD#1’s friend. DH will come back and pick us up.

I hear the house manager and another staff/volunteer discuss the strategy – how to clean it up? It sounds like they are going to try to do something unobtrusive, getting in by the side entrance somehow. I wait by the door, listening, waiting to slip in during scene change.

Just as I open the door, the house lights go up. All is bright. I’m sure I only imagined a large spotlight on myself. The house manager makes an announcement that someone was sick, must clean up, sorry for inconvenience. The PLAY WAS STOPPED WHILE THE STAFF CLEANED UP MY DAUGHTER’S SPEW.

The entire audience watched me take my seat. I wanted to melt into the floor. I could hear the audience, sounded like – buzz buzz buzz PUKE buzz buzz buzz OH My God buzz buzz buzz SICK buzz buzz buzz. I wanted to leave – but wait, DH was LONG GONE with the car. It took the staff THREE PASSES with towels to get it all cleaned up. (Me on pass #1: Could I borrow a corner of that towel to clean off my shoe? Thanks, I’m SO sorry.) At LEAST ten minutes of bright house lights and all eyes on the cleanup production. It felt like 10 hours.

People were gracious and did ask if DD#2 was okay. A woman I know offered a ride home for me and the 12 year olds, which I accepted. The actors carried on and the play was good. And this is the last time you will ever hear from me because my next move in life is to enter the Witness Protection Program.

The phone rang the next day, it was Perseverance Theater. She said she was calling "About A---." My heart stopped, how did they even know her name? False alarm, they wanted to see if she was going to be in their summer theater arts program (she has done it in the past so they wanted to know if she would be signing up). I did not share with the woman on the phone that DD#2 was an, er, CONTRIBUTOR to the current mainstage play.

This would be the post Tarantino flashback, shown out of sequence for ironic effect: The family is smiling, happy, ready to see the play. They have had a wonderful meal, all are looking forward to the rest of the evening. The parents feel a tad progressive taking their kids to an intellectual adult venue. The mom takes out her cell phone and turns it off, ever mindful of being a good audience member. She leans to the dad and comments, "Would I just DIE if my CELL PHONE ever rang during a play? I think I would perish of embarrassment." They smile and shake their heads, there are people out there who would be that clueless. They smile looking forward to the five of them seeing the play...

Roll credits.

I look forward to rejoining the world of health and fitness soon--
Juno:^: :^:

Well Juno - That's definately one for the memory books! Honestly what can you do but laugh? Motherhood/Parenthood is a humbling experience....I've had a few duck and cover moments myself, but none that DRAMATIC! lol

Hope that things will calm down for you soon. You've got to be burnt!

The sisters - Type A, B, and me are going to swim tonight at my pool. Luckily this is my strongest event and I've been able to practice at it a little more than they have ... I had a really strong week, very motivated and surprisingly not too sore.

I signed up for Spin tomorrow so I have to go! I don't know why, but I think after tonights swim and time out with the girls I won't have the drive to get to the gym in the am or do anything productive... I have to get it in now since DH is off to SanAntonio next week on business.

Food-wise things are good. I kept to 1400 cals yesterday and plan to keep it under 1500 today. Sunday morning is my big June 1 weigh in and I am hoping for some good numbers --- SO sad that I am fixated on numbers... Why can't I just appreciate the work I am doing? Oh Blah!

Steph, Hope you're doing well. How are your summers?? More or less crowded? More or less structured? I am sure you're counting down the days til vacation... You certainly deserve a break.

When DH comes back from business we're off to Pittsburgh to visit his parents/family. None of them have met DD#2 yet --- I'm pretty sure they think the world ends at the PA border. They've never come to visit. I kind of feel bad for DH sometimes, especially since my family can be a little overwhelming at times, but here is definately better then there.... And that's MY summer vacation...

AND now DD#2 is up from her nap. It's my "off" day from the gym so grocery shopping and errands await... Goals for today:
1. Keep cals under 1500 and get a good balance of food
2. WATER
3. Non structured exercise - walk with the kids, clear my head...

HAPPY FRIDAY -
Absmom

The weather has been lovely until nap time today when the clouds rolled in and we had a huge downpour. So my only excuse for not posting is that I have been outside so much that when I am back inside I am catching up on stuff that got neglected while I enjoyed the sunshine and fresh air!

My weigh in was today and this is the first month that the scale didn't budge. I had great results the past two months but this month everything was stuck - measurements and weight. That is okay because I had been stuck for a long time. Now I just need to look at what I need to do differently. I don't mind the weight I am at but still think that I can be smaller and stay that way once I go down. I think in 5 years I have only gone back up the scale once.

Absmom - you are doing great on your calorie goals and exercise goals - I am proud of you! I hope you enjoyed some non-structured exercise. I have had tons of walks with the kids and they are so nice and slow :)

Juno - I am sure the Witness Prot. Program sounds like a great idea but I am sure something will take over the local gossip and you shall be free :) We haven't had any public vomiting but we did go to this restaurant that was more grown-up than anything even DH & I had been to in a while. One of those places with 10 tables total - people that don't have kids eat there :) Anyhow it was very quiet and my kids were doing great and then one of them lets out the loudest burp you could imagine. Everyone burst out laughing - so at least we weren't shuffled out but have never been brave enough to eat there again and the food was excellent!! I hope you get some down time this weekend because you need to re-charge those batteries.

One more week of school but we are already in summer mode. Trips and walks outside, picnics, crafts when they want, no more alphabet and numbers, etc... It is a looser structure but we keep busy all day. The older kids are kind of in charge. We seem to be fine until about August when everyone is ready for school and they no longer think being together all day is fun!

We are off to dinner tonight and some errands. Tomorrow we are seeing "Finding Nemo" and I think we are going to be naughty and skip the yard work. What do I care if the yard is not quite symmetrical. If people want to think that we aren't doing the other side, let them!

Hope everyone has a great relaxing Fri. night and a wonderful refreshing wake up on Sat. morning!

Steph

I was hoping to get at least a minute of "ME" time today, but it doesn't look like that will happen. DH is taking DD1 to see NEMO. DD2 is napping. I say go to McDs get her a happy meal, have some quality time... He decides to "whip something up here" - read "destroy the kitchen and leave, just as DD2 wakes up..." Its all playing out as I type... The cries are coming through the monitor loud and clear.... I'll have to continue this later....urgh....

Every time this past week Absmom, I have tried to leave with one kid (less work) and they both have come with me every time!!!! DH got all this alone time in the house and I had them with me and could have screamed. Even today I tried to go to library by myself - instead had two boys and an inchworm along for the ride!

Steph

Let's see if I get this in before someone needs me... Almost had a nights sleep if it wasn't for DH puking his guts out at 3:00 a.m.! Lovely... something he ate.... And like I can "go back to sleep".

I just wanted to let you all know that I will NOT be doing a Triathlon at 200+ lbs... because I am now 198 lbs! Hooray for me!! Doing what I am doing should get me even lower by July 27 (I know I shouldn't set a number, just know that it will be A LOT lower than it is now...) I can't tell you how glad I was to know that my efforts these past two weeks have paid off'; I was so discouraged...

Steph - I FEEL YOUR PAIN... If husband's could only understand how precious a trip to the grocery store alone is ... OR heaven forbid a few hours in the house by yourself... ugh!

Yeah Absmom I am very proud of you!! You set your goal and made it! Now I have been sinning in the food dept. for the last two days so today was scr. egg whites and fruit for breakfast. I will behave because I am going on vacation with my family 5 pounds lighter. I will do whatever it takes which is pathetic but oh well that is how I feel.

No child has bothered me all morning. I have been sitting in the shade on the deck reading magazines and doing some computer work. DH vacuumed and dusted the whole house. I almost feel guilty because I only helped a little but I wanted a lazy day. I need new sunglasses but I am refusing to get in the car and drive to Kohls or Target to buy them. I haven't had a day of sitting on my butt since ??????.

I think I am going to start making it mandatory that Steve take them out for boys dinner or something once a week. I take them on al the trips without him (to see Grandma's and stuff). He does take them to all the Dr. & Dentist stuff but I usually have daycare kids so my house is still full. I think the last silent house time I experienced was back in TX when I was at my girlfriends!!!! That was 48 hour escape and that was my only one!

Later,

Steph

Great to get some needed downtime Steph. Reading mags in the chair sounds divine. I've been craving a massage for a while now, maybe after I get my house put back together I'll check out treating myself!

Absmom YA HOO on reaching that ever-important goal! And your habits will get you healthier and healthier. I can't wait to track your progress during the race, you will be getting some strong energy from Alaska way. Let me know if you don't already have my email so I can send to you.

Good lord I am exhausted. In a good way. Today was really fun, much more fun than I would have thought. We did an event in my town. My sideline involves baskets, home sales, a company that starts with "L" - (hope that is okay to say 3FC monitors) - My team made 2 sort of scenarios - a garden/potting bench sort of set up and a camping set up complete with canoe prop, they were really great I must say. Members of the L family were here, and one brother and his wife took our group out to dinner after all was done. They had free drawings for door prizes, and I won a wonderful one.

Fitness. Well. <cough> uh. In truth - not bad in the food front, truly. I find I am getting full easier and so I really don't think I overate - probably just relaxed the quality a bit. I'm back in it tomorrow! Exercise has been a wash for about a week now, but there has been moving stuff to and from car, setting up displays, running around meeting and greeting, and lots of adrenaline. I think it has been okay. The biggest health hazard has been good old fashioned lack of sleep - I'll finish this post and then get some Zs before morning comes and I blast through my work.

Tomorrow I'm hyper scheduled - work until noonish, at DD#2's school at 1:00, her IEP meeting at 2:30, she is reading for a theater summer class at 4:00 (see earlier post he he) then at 6:00 there is one more training meeting doodad for L. THEN I will be quasi-human. I don't dare commit to the club tomorrow. I'll commit to:

Water and green tea.
Soup for lunch
A smidge of that Me time - long bath?

It will have to do!

Later pals--

Juno

Good Monday to you all!

Juno - Take that bath!!!! Soak it up!! You're running yourself ragged. No need to feel any guilt about the gym, food or otherwise as you are certainly burning cals with the lifestyle you've picked up lately... Sounds like the pace suits you though! Glad your weekend went well!

Steph - I think you should insist on a monthly Dads night out with the boys. With all the kids that depend on you, a little "ME" time is certainly in order. As for the eating and weight loss goals you've set... Mark the calendar, make a plan, and follow it no matter what... The weight will come off and boy won't you be proud!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't tell you how reaching my mini goal felt this past Sunday except that I feel even stronger about training and setting new goals to reach!

DH is in TX on business until Thursday SO - I am lining up a sitter or my mom and doing something one day this week... I'll have to think on it... I don't want to waste these precious "no kid" minutes- no malls (yuk), no movies I really want to see, I guess Borders for coffee and a good mag could be in order....

Eating wise... Since I don't have any real meals to prepare while hubby is away (DD1 eats next to nothing these days) , I was thinking about a mini spa week - getting some good fish and salad stuff from the "Gucci" grocery store and treating myself to some yummy, but low cal food. My plan is no white carbs and under 1400 cals.

Exercise was good today - started a little unmotivated and almost skipped, but turned out 2.67 miles, @ 2% incline in 30 mins (a new personal record!). Since running is my weakest event I am going to do a little of it every day (tomorrow sprints).

On that, goals for tomorrow:
1. Body Pump and sprints
2. Cals under 1400, no white carbs
3. Drink at least 8 glasses of water or green tea (I've been slacking off lately)

Hope you all have sunshine in your day! Here on the East Coast we've almost forgotten what it is!

Cheers!
Absmom

We all need some "me" time. I am having a bit right now since all the kids are napping and my son is ignoring me. But it doesn't count because DH will be home soon and I should go and play a with my son.

1) Exercise at night for summer - don't whine about it just do it.
2) Set the goal which is next Thur. to weigh in 3 lbs lighter. I would do 5 BUT I don't want to be all crabby at myself!
3) Water Water Water

I have been digging into old exercise tapes for variety and have enjoyed even one yoga one I used to consider to tough. I did it all easily. I am worried that in CO my mom will drag my sister and I to her yoga studio and we will look stupid. We both do yoga at home and think we are doing it right but we will probably be laughed at (yes I am really having that fear!). Now if my mom doesn't invite us - we will probably be insulted. I hope to find that my mom has gained some weight because she really was much too skinny last year. I don't ask - just will wait and see.

Absmom - I am trying to fix dinners around here so that we can have spa type meals too. Since DH is on a healthy kick it's been easy. Each of us picks two meals so I can sneak my favorites in there. I actually think I could probably get more Girls Nights Out easier than I can get him out. I will work on it though!

Juno - Sounds like you had a great "basket" day. Going out to lunch with the bigwigs!! Good girl! I hope you soaked in the tub and found a moment to unwind before heading off to school.

Okay I am going to go and hang out with my child for a minute. I've been on the computer too long this afternoon. Step back, move away......turn it off!

Steph

Ha! No tub, no soup, bad on water. And I'm usually so great! There was one more meeting thingie from the visiting bigwigs so I could of course not miss it! Plus my younger D had some school things going on, plus she tried out for the summer program at Perseverance Theatre, so what can I say, I'm still foraging in the kitchen and using adrenaline as my exercise. But hey - I'm usually so good - I figure I have some gas in the tank. It is just a lot happening at an already-busy time of year! I will get there!

Steph good reminder on the tapes. I have collected a few, some from ebay, and I sort of forget that they are an option - I have a couple that I enjoy. Last year I bought some vintage callanetics VSH tapes. Now that is one wacky lady, but I think the exercise system is fascinating. I have never been able to stick with it long enough to see the full deal, but it would be worth looking into again.

Abs, I love your way - break it into a plan and hey, follow the plan! You really know the difference between simple and easy - and it serves you well. Tonight I resisted the late night snack that usually gets me through the last hour. A reminder that I would go to sleep at the same time either day, and then would just be asleep - this time the hunger wasn't compelling enough to give in to it. (if it is I believe you should eat something)

Sleep. Two more days of school. What will be next?

Later my friends--

Shorty, anyone lurking?

Juno

Juno - I think you sound like you are happy with what you were doing for the week so that is good! I think everyone deserves breaks and though some are unintended - we need them!

Absmom - Hope you have that Quiet Time scheduled and are looking forward to it :)

My agenda today is a bit off. DH is going in for knee surgery as soon as he comes in from work. I have 3 daycare kids that I have to drag off. I have tons of vacation coming up and since the surgery isn't major I am dumping him off and picking him up after nap. He isn't the type you can sit around and hold his hand so I decided not to close. I got rid of two kids and should have gotten rid of another since I just found out mom is home all day.

Goals -
1) Long yoga session at least 30 min.
2) Walk tonight and if I am a really good girl, run on treadmill too.
3) I am going to eat the fast food at lunch but there will be no supersizing !!!!

I have really been challenging myself on the treadmill. I only am on for 20 minutes most of the time. I limit myself to 35/40 minutes of exercise per day so that means 15-20 for weights and the rest for cardio. I did improve my 20 minute time by .08 MPH. I am running a lot faster and longer than I could before. I think Absmom you are inspiring me. I pretend you are racing next to me and calling me a wimp!!!

Cross your fingers that DH's surgery is successful and I am not bringing him home on wheelchair. That would make me very unhappy!!!!

Steph

This is quick one..... I am pooped... What do they say about the best layed plans?....

Getting my quiet time after the kids are in bed. My mom brought over sushi (yum) and I ended up staying home vs. going out on my own. Its nice to just chat with mom... Also had to take the day off from the gym. Both girls woke up with colds, the little one with a slight fever. Oh well, I'll make up for it tomorrow. I did get a short walk in with the baby in the back pack and D1 in the stroller. Someone had a meltdown ten minutes in so we had to go home... I guess 20 minutes hauling 20lbs and pushing 34 should count for a little exercise....

Well, I had plenty of time to get all the laundry done, wash the kitchen floor, vaccuum and dust.. Now I get to enjoy my tea with the last few chapters of my book. Has anyone read The Lovely Bones??? I would recommend it.

Did awesome in the food area today - 1480!! and a balanced selection of foods (no white carbs, except for the sushi)

As for tomorrow: Cals under 1600, GYM - SPIN class and Weights
and ... WATER!!

Juno - Enjoy your week off ??????????
Steph- Good for you on the Tread ... Every second counts!! As for a race with you, I am sure you would lap me...even on a tread!

Cheers!
Absmom

It's almost the end of the week. Time just flies on by! Tomorrow is the last day of school here and I have a few things to do today. Finish gift for daycare kid that is leaving, wrap present for teacher that I do not like, and enjoy my last quiet nap time!

Goals -
1) The night workouts are going great but they make me hungry. I need to resist urge to snack!
2) Am in my 130's and need to be proud of that and keep making progress!!!! It has taken me years to get here.
3) Take the dog for a walk even though limpy husband can not come with.

Soccer practice, soccer game, I have to make dinner, laundry is 1/2 done, yard needs to be mowed, have to touch up my roots, exercise....all in a days work!

I really liked Lovely Bones but I wasn't so thrilled about the ending. I still read about 3-4 books a week. You should see the pile next to my bed plus the ones I am saving for vacation. I have read some wonderful books lately and found new authors.

I must continue down the path of work............boo!

Steph

Quick hi--

I agree with your take on the Lovely Bones. She also wrote a book called Lucky about rape that is hard to read but good.

Abs, I am only through with the extra work, I am not off this week - I have all my normal work. I really need the weekend to catch up on rest.

Yesterday was the last day of school.

DH and I plan to hit the club tonight. I just have to be patient - the schedule will return, and I will be coherent again. I've been crabby with the kids this week, my body is saying enough.

Later friends

Juno

Good Friday?!

I am menstral, hear me ROAR! SO anxious and annoyed with the world today. My DD1 has picked up on it too; can't imagine what it will be like in this house in 10 more years!

The child watch at the gym was closed yesterday. Someone came down with the chicken pox, so they had to disinfect... In my current emotional state, I took it as a personal offense... I really hope they are open today --- things could get real ugly if I can't run. I don't have any exercise tapes, and quite honestly, I have a hard time trying to exercise at home - staying motivated to finish a whole show (ESPN has a bunch on in the am). I wish I could for these "off" days when I really need to let out some stress.

Finished Lovely Bones... such a great start, really liked it and then - as you both acknowledged - disappointing... I always feel duped when that happens --- suck you in and then --- NOTHING...
Oh well. I don't read as much as you do Steph - books are kind of my evening sleeping pill. It can take me a week to get through just one. My mom gave me a stack to read this week and it will probably take me all summer!

Juno - I meant "off" from the gym this week... Hope you and DH get to the club tonight. Nothing like a good sweat to rejuvenate!

Steph - 130s!!! Oh to be in the 130s! BE PROUD, Fine tune, maintain, and focus on being your healthy self! As for those snack attacks, prepare ahead and have something healthy.

And now before DD2s nap is over...

Three things to focus on today and for the weekend:
1. Know my body - focus on putting things in perspective, not snapping and practicing deep breathing...
2. EXERCISE and stay away from caffine
3. Water - even though I'm retaining a good 5 lbs right now!

Its only one week a month........ I know I will feel better soon! Have lovely weekends !!!
Absmom

Happy Monday!
Last week of school, sure you're all busy...

DD2 just started to stir... so this will be quick. Goals for the week: 1/ Stay motivated, keep on plan, 2/ Green Tea and water, 3/ keep cals low today!

Feeling a little blah, low on the motivation today... even yesterday while I swam. I was there, but I didn't really challenge myself. Tomorrow is body pump and a 2 mile run. I really want to up the weights and power through...

Juno... I hope things are finally starting to calm down, that you made it to the gym for some "you" time.

Steph... I hope you're sticking to your pre-vacation goals!!!

Check in tomorrow,
Absmom

Hi, Friends. I'm still here. After the long high-energy weeks of coverage, etc., last week was the week that I thought would bring relief. What actually happened was the Crash. I have been low energy with an extreme core exhaustion. I had to get up early every single day for one reason or another (reminder - I work until at least 1:30 a.m.) Nutrition was severely compromised.

I finally made it to the gym - tonight.

It is just hard to go on no sleep for so long. Adrenaline (and caffeine) carry me a long way, but the crash always comes.

Good news - today I made a HUGE vat of Juno lentil/veg soup. I made it to the club and started the ease-in procedure! I do not feel that I 'inflated' in size over the whole affair. The cleaning lady came today. Overall: A good day!

DH and I both felt the absence at the club - we both did just a bit of cardio and felt it! I told him the beauty is, in a week or so it will be like we never took a break. He is hiking the Chilkoot Trail in a couple of weeks so he really hopes I am right.

Here's some Motivation Mojo for you abs! Can you see me, I'm waving the pom poms, get up and GO! What is the name of your particular triath? Is there a web site?

Steph--I remember we share latenight reading habits. I've been 'off' on my reading lately - but there is always the New Yorker to get me through. Could use a grand book. I have to admit, I'm intrigued by the new Hilary book. I'm the type that will wait for paperback, or better yet a borrowed copy. Think she will be prez some day?

Lots of work - but I can HANDLE it! LOL.

Tomorrow:

1. Juno soup
2. Weight training, if not BP then some other way
3. Get out the juicer and make a fresh beet/carrot/apple juice and sip for the vitamin infusion. I need to remember this for exhaustion.

Okay - tomorrow ho!

Juno

I was almost done typing my post and somehow I hit a key on the keyboard and it is all gone!! I hate that.

Summer has started here but so far so good. We are just focusing on keeping busy. I don't have many yet this morning and breakfast is still in the oven so a few moments of peace time to type. Today is inside day since we are having rain until 11. Craft and noise :)

I have been doing great on exercise and haven't had a day off since the plan is exercise until vacation. I am going strong. I went and bought some new clothes this weekend and I was able to buy the same size jeans in the junior dept. as my teen!! I still have some cush in the middle section where she has none and can wear clingier shirts but I'm working on it! I went out to dinner the other night with a good friend that I hadn't seen in a long time (just phone chats). I wouldn't have recognized her if I didn't see her get out of her car. She was always a big WW person and I was shocked by how she looked. I feel bad even typing about how she looked but really I was overwhelmed. We spent a lot of time talking about how I've lose my weight and I actually felt guilty instead of inspiring. I hope I didn't come across that way.

My goals for this week:
1) Keep pushing my treadmill times because I feel more positive even if I am .01 faster
2) Pack my exercise clothes in the suitcase because I am kidding myself if I don't think I will have any time!
3) We are low on f&v since I didn't want to buy a bunch and have it rot when we got out of town - but keep focused and eat it even if there aren't tons of choices. Don't crash and reach for the stuff in the cupboards during the day.

Juno - Yeah that crash does come and sometimes it feels great to be that exhausted because you don't actually feel guilty for being lazy and sleeping!!! I am not having pre-vacation stress which is rare for me. I've read a bunch of good mystery books but the last book I tried that had great reviews by Po Bronson - I could not get into. Do you know what I'm talking about?????? I have my whole stack of reading material hidden from myself until vacation.

Absmom - I hope the blahs go away :) I think it is tougher to not have the blahs when you have little ones. You start to snap out of it but there moods and things that happen to them make such an impact on us when they are little. I must admit that I treasured their toddler years - I feel a little bit like my own person now that they can do most things on their own!!

Okay breakfast to clean up! Have a good week. I will check in before we hit the road and at my mom's I will maybe check in too!

Steph

Steph you have really come a long way in - whoa, 5 years! It must feel marvelous to shop for junior sizes! I like you have reallyfigured out how your mind works, and you use that as your structure for everything.

Absmom, I hope you will come here to send up a flare! Gosh I hate that slump thing - remember it is a CYCLE and you will get past it and will be back in top form soon...

I ended up doing a little extra work today, then a meeting for the basket biz. I did make it to the club, but couldn't make it in time for BodyPump. I worked out in the weight room, using the BP order of things but with sort of a modified Joyce Vedral pyramid thingie. I got a workout. Having my kids home is really going to make it hard to make it to my pet classes.

Tomorrow.

Eat Juno soup
Take Vitamins
I never got to that juicer so let's try again

Have a great day--

Juno

I guess the trick is to keep on keeping on... I am really SO unmotivated this week. I am making it to the gym, but the spark is just not there . Going through the motions, but not making the extra effort to improve. Had some good eating days, and yesterday a not so good day... I leave for "vacation" at my in-laws Friday am.... I can not let this time away from home derail my training.

Thanks for the push Juno.. I know I will get through this = I really have no choice, but to stop wondering why and just do it... Glad you made it to the club. You always seem to get yourself back on track. I will take strength in that and try to STOP WHINING... My life isn't nearly as busy as you or Steph!

Steph, what can I say? You are truly inspiring. I hope that I can know what it feels like to do what you have accomplished. Be proud! Juniors.......hmmmmm.

AND NOW>>>> Today = I have to keep the cals to under 1600. I have been to the gym, but could really do some good if I used my floor time with dd2 to do some ab work. AND Green Tea......

My goal is to be 195 by Friday when we leave.... I can do it@!@

Happy Wednesday!
Absmom

You can do it Absmom!!! I am not the least bit inspiring just determined :) I am so tired today...send me some energy. I am glad we are leaving in a bit but I will be passing out in the van as soon as we hit the highway. I have had a headache the past few days and hope it goes away. I'm not stressed or anything but I have noticed that the past few times I've gotten my period I get a steady headache for a few days. I've never even noticed when I had it so this is annoying - part of getting older?????

I made my goal but like I said my energy is zapped. I don't think it is because of my exercise every day but it might be since I usually take a break. Plus my stomach is sticking out so I don't feel there was any point to the exercise :)


Juno - You and I will both probably be struggling with adjustments to our summer schedule. I am behind by 20 minutes here and that throws me off (not the kids). So far so good and I can last 11 more weeks.

Absmom - Have a great vacation - we can relax and have a good time!

Okay I actually have goals for vacation-
1) Mini sessions every morning - crunches, push-ups, leg lifts
2) Water Water Water no matter how much everyone makes fun of my tiny bladder!!
3) If I am not going to hike that day then I am going for a good walk in the morning before we do other things.

Other than that I plan to enjoy the company of my sister and mom (and of course enjoy my kids!).

I will probably be able to hop on at some point during vacation. I will have my computer but no internet access until we stay near my mom's!

Happy Vacation to me :) :) :)

Steph

Hi Steph on vacation... Hi Juno enjoying summer!!

I am on my way home tomorrow - a delightful 13 hours in the car with DH and the girls... It was a painful trip to Gramma's, I hope it won't be the same on the way home.

Tried to do a little exercising, a little fitday, and keep my MIL at bay... She's big into force feeding... The weather has been less than agreeable, but so it goes. The girls - especially the older one has really enjoyed the visit. Grampa has a lot of toys (picture rural PA farm) and since they don't see us often, they've been spoiled rotten. I am sure our first few days at home will be challenging....

I need to drink my water, eat green things and protien - I feel really OFF... but just checking in, even if for a second makes me feel a little bit better....

Hope everyone is doing well. Juno --- how goes your summer adjustments??

Ciao!
Absmom

Both of you - enjoy your trips!

Last week I ended up with a terrible cold. It just never ends does it! I was flattened through Sunday, things are going okay but workout time is scarce.

We are going to look at our first house in this round - boy I'd just like to find one, buy it and move in, but I know it is never that simple. We are in our first home right now, and it is pretty daunting to think about moving everything. I spent a couple of hours in the garage culling stuff for salv army and the trash - yes there was a lot. So...wish us luck!

I'm constantly, constantly, constantly saying "when I get through this week, things will level out and I'll have my routine" - thing is I say this EVERY week!

Oh well, Thanks for checking in and I did work out last night and am continuing on the upswing. There is so much going on! Take care--

Juno

Hi Steph, Juno!

Steph, I hope your trip is all that you hoped it to be...

Juno - House hunting... It's fun and frustrating and exciting, and... well, I've decided we're never moving again...

GOOD LUCK, don't settle --- and yes, throw it all out... All the stuff I thought we'd need or miss is still sitting in the basement boxed up after nearly 3 years! Yard sales are great!!!

Glad you made it to the gym and that you continue to strive for that "routine". It will make it back, just keep it a priority.

I have been trying to do that with the kids - just jump right back into the old schedule... It has been tough. Everyone has colds including me, but I just can't be sick right now, so its non-drowsy cold meds and a swift kick in the butt. My workouts these past few days have been less than stellar, but I feel like just getting to the gym gives me points for something???

Tomorrow my sisters and I are biking and running. The weather has been so bad that we are not even thinking about an open water swim yet. I don't think we've had a night in the mid 60s yet and if we've hit 80 during the day, I dont' remember.... I sure hope summer arrives in time for the race!! BRRRRR

SO - tomorrow its 13 miles of biking followed by 3.5 miles of running - just to see if we can do it. I am less than enthusiastic given my stuffed up head, but I'll put the game face on and not be a whimp. I can't tell you how intimidating my siblings are... Weird to admit - I guess I've always just done my own thing so that I'd never be compared and now we're doing the same thing...

Something to think about.

I need to get my diet back on track. I am not really over eating, but I am also not as diligent with fitday as I was before my trip. I hate to be derailed. I will pay more attention... I really want to be 10 more lbs down before the big event...

I guess that's enough to deal with for a weekend! I'll let you know how it goes!

Ciao!
Absmom

Hey there! Way to get back on that schedule abs - that's awesome that you are right back in the routine. I have made it officially to the club exactly once this week, but adrenaline seems to be doing the job as I am down a couple of lbs! Yowsa. Yesterday I signed up with my older D to do the Walk for Life for breast cancer - that will mean a lot of walking to "get ready" - so good to have that on the burner.

We looked at 2 houses. They were HUGE - and that is our issue, ours is just too tiny. There were bathroom and shoddy carpentry issues with one, and kitchen issues with the other. But I went in and got prequalified today so we are ready to pounce if something comes on the market that we like. My girls are SO excited! They share a room and really hope to have their own rooms in the new house. Stay tuned folks! And, hey, packing and moving boxes and furniture is GREAT exercise!

DH leaves Sunday morning, gone through Friday to hike the Chilkoot Trail - I'll be single mom. I hope to get a lot accomplished. Both girls are out on sleepovers so tonighte is date night.

Well-tata to you both - Steph I hope the trip is fantastic. I'll be in touch and setting goals--

Juno

5% of what?

Hi all :) I am back and boy do I need to get back into routine!! I feel so vacationy and am just looking around my house like "hey I'll do that another year". I think tomorrow when my normal day starts that will kick me into gear. I had exercise on my TO DO list for the day but it is just not happening.

I didn't do any formal exercise on vacation. I swam a bit in the pool, walked all over the Rocky Mountains, hiked a few times, but mainly just had a good relaxing time. I don't usually buy things on vacation but this year I was splurging a bit and bought some things I loved and went back a few times to look at them but they came home with me. Good to be with my family but I am sure my sister and her boyfriend needed quiet time after they spent all that time with us.

Okay so send good vibes my way to get up tomorrow and start my fitness butt in gear. I am feeling lazy. It is summer and in my business I need to stay de-stressed and need extra energy. It sounds like both of you are doing great! We need some positive thoughts sent our way as my grandma has been in the hospital for 3 weeks (93 and her first bad health incident!!) and Steve's mom ended up in the hospital while we were on vacation and all she ever had wrong was her appendix taken out. She is having serious heart surgery but we are very thankful that all her problems were caught first because she wouldn't be here at all if it went undetected much longer. Luckily she went to the Dr. when she couldn't shake her feeling that she felt like crap. She was even helicoptered from Dallas to Houston (her first helicopter ride!!). It is serious but the outcome looks good so everyone just keep her in your thoughts.

My goals for the week:
1) I am very into white carbs so I need to cut them back as much as I can this week without going mental and eating double.
2) Exercise hard and push for more results.
3) Journal and instead of just writing it and forgetting about it, go back and analyze where some bad choices are.

I do have to get some stuff done. I didn't gain a pound over vacation and I ate out the whole time. But I do feel mushy!!

Absmom - Hope you did good on your trial even yesterday! After spending the week with mom and sis - I know what you mean about the family dynamics and competitive crap. I love my sister but I think a few more days and our monsters would have been unleashed.

Juno - Get rid of the junk! You know that if you haven't needed it up til now then throw it away. I'll come help. I went through our stuff and have been the Queen of GiveAway. The Salv. Army probably hates me. Goodwill is 5 minutes from my house and my own private dumping ground over the past two years. I am working on DH to move towards WA (I don't know if I can deal with Alaska and I am not sure he can). We kept meeting WA people everywhere who were great at pushing it on him.

Work Stephanie - quit yacking!!

Steph

Hi Yall!

Welcome PainterWoman! The name '5% Club' is a symbol of possibility. It is based on when "they" say (whoever "they" is) that only 5% of people who lose weight and get fit manage to KEEP it off. Many people see that as a daunting statistic. What we do here is say, lookit, 5% of the people who do this do it for life and change for ever, it is POSSIBLE and I am IN that 5%!!! It still is an inspiring symbol for me. I hope you will pull up a chair, pour some tea and tell us about yourself!

Welcome back steph! Yes, you do sound relaxed and that is good! Your week will be a good start I know. I hope all goes well for all the grandmas. Those are hard things to deal with. I'll bet your clients are saying "thank God she is back!" Washington state is great. My sister lives in Bellingham, and I could totally live there, very happily. Hey though, you at least have to come up and visit before you cross alaska off your list!

Abs, I trust you are out sweating at this very moment. I hope it's all starting to come together.

Steph, I did dump a LOT and there is a lot to go. I only did my last major clutter-bust right after christmas, but unbelievable how much more stuff there is that can be purged. I am so much better than I used to be! I was just visiting the home of a good friend, and she has much more clutter than I do - I need to remember that just because I'm not Perfect like my mother doesn't mean the place is a total dump.

I dropped DH at the ferry this morning and he won't be back until Thursday night. I wish I could go along. I'll be single mom for the week - hope to get a lot done. Right now I have a bucket of typing to do so I'll get going on that. There is so much to do, and I tend to fiddle around (read a magazine) before I just push up and start. That is my whole issue, slow starter switch. Always moving forward though!

Carry on friends

Juno

5% of the successful "losers" makes more sense. Thanks for filling me in.

I'm wanting to lose 46% of my current weight... and THAT's what I've been fixated on. :lol: 5% of my current weight probably would get me comfortable in my last "batch" of clothes... but I don't think anyone will even notice... and I'll need to loes three times that to eliminate one of my bp meds.

I'll use my journal to explore what contributed to two previous gain-backs.

You are definitely welcome here PW - and doing your goals as 5% at a time is most definitely a 5% thing to do. We do it right, because of course for us it is permanent! 46% of your weight seems like a lot today but it could very well be 45% next week, and 40% in a couple weeks, and and and...

Yes, gain-backs. They are normal. What I have found is the good habits go in cycles, and so does weight. The thing that will make you successful is perseverance in starting again and again.

Okay - I'm really going back to work now - I've found just about every excuse possible to stay off task but now I'm really going in. Tomorrow I hope to get some exercise via long-needed yard work!

Juno

Hello all! - Hi PW! Welcome!!

I am so fixated on food at the moment so I'll rant about that first. I don't know what it is, but I am SO off track.... Yesterday - donuts X2 ??? mindless chip eating (thanks DH for bringing home the big bag) and 2 - yes 2 boca burgers for dinner... How on earth do I think I am going to get anywhere?! So I logged it in fitday.... big deal! I really need to figure out WHY I do this to myself... After the practice TRI I did the same thing... It was almost like I needed a "prize" because I did so well.... Why couldn't the prize be a manicure or a shirt or why couldnt' I just relish the fact that I did well.... Why did it have to be a big bagel with enough cream cheese to choke a horse!? I'm with you Steph, I need to start looking at what I've done, really get to the cause of these habbits so I know what it is I should be changing... Just writing things down isn't enough any more....

This will have to be an on-going long term goal...

AND now for the more positive aspects of my life... The event this past Saturday was a BIG success. 13 miles on the bike, immediately followed by a 3.5 mile run. We all stayed together for the most part (although sis 1 ran backwards for a patch to let me know how slow I was running). I made it the whole way, even felt like I had held back a bit (trying to conserve energy I could have used to go faster). It was really empowering... Other than my butt feeling a little sore from the bike seat, I felt great! Strong! I swam yesterday and really pushed and today I have to take time off so DD1 can get to the dentist. I feel like I should do something, but really, I have to keep telling myself that I am entitled to 1-2 days off a week.

We're going to do this again next Saturday and hopefully the weather will cooperate so we can do the swim as well.

And DD 2 is up from nap. So....

1. Be ever so mindful of what I put in my mouth
2. WATER
3. Abs - Push ups ---things I can do while playing on the floor

JUNO - I hope the "single mom" life is agreeing with you... I always enjoy a little time for me when my DH is away... Good luck with your continuing push to move out the unwanted...

STEPH - Good vibes your way... Hope your Grandparents are doing better.... PUSH your workouts and journal like you mean to...

PW... One day at a time!!!

Ciao!
Absmom

One Day at A Time. with Patience.... or crankiness... just do it, right?
I'm conforming to most of my eating plan... it is really hard to eat as slowly as I am supposed to, and I still forget to put fork/food down for 5 minutes in the middle. I have cut out between meal eating though. :twirly:

And I used bike for 30 minutes.... longest yet. My plan tomorrow is to walk in the morning (before it gets really hot... maybe I'll see rabbits again), go to work briefly, then the Renoir exhibit, then bike in the afternoon. Oh, and laundry!

Had salad and a sandwich for dinner.... sandwich for lunch. cottage cheese and v* at breakfast. I still can't tell when I'm at a level 3 hunger.

Abs, here's my .02 - you need to remember that when you are working that hard in your training, you HAVE to take in more calories than when you are having a couch tater day! Otherwise you will find yourself in the kitchen by the light of the fridge, maniacally tearing open packaging and powering down! You know on the WP site they have this thing about "activity points." In a way it is sort of like, wah! I've done this extra work and I want to save all this money in the bank, so I need to eat the same as I always do and exercise more. But - you do need to eat a little more - figure out how much to add on training days (might take some expirimentation) then beat your hunger to the punch with F&V and most important PROTEIN that will keep you full and keep the wild cravings at bay.

What if you had a part time job and you wanted to put ALL the money you made in the bank to save? Great idea. But in truth you would have to spend something for the job: The gas to get there, maybe a different set of clothing, some $ for your coffee or snack, maybe other little expenses. The trick is to make exercise your "part time calorie job" and only put in enough for the fuel to get there and the little stuff, so you can put all the money in the bank (ie use all the exercise for your goal, but eating enough to get you there...) Okay a cute little Juno analogy but I like it!

PW are you an artist? A painter woman visiting a Renoir exhibit, just let me guess! Sounds fabulous, I love him. 30 minutes is a push on a bike, you are to be congratulated! Explain the levels of hunger - is this a plan you are working with? I do not put my fork down much when I eat, either. The walk sounds terrific.

Well, here I am at work. I still do not have the 'summer schedule' figured out, but my cold is over and I really NEED to get with it. This once a week thing is not cutting it. I'm going to try very hard to go to body pump today, so I will be sore sore sore - I'll re-enter with lighter weights and take it from there.

Happy day, make the most of it!

Juno