Hi Renee.

I know I have been away for a long while but I have to admit that I checked in the other day and there was no activity so I though everyone had abandoned the group. I'm still here though. Work is extremely hectic so I have had a lot less time for e-mail but I'll make a better effort. Short update...

I'm still hashing it out with bf. The farm is done - frost killed the rest of the plants. I'm trying to figure out what I'm going to do about 'gardening' over the winter but that relates directly with bf situation so I don't know yet. I got the SB Diet book and hope to find time to read it and start next Monday. How is it going for you? Are you still having success? Any thoughts/advice/encouragement would be appreciated. I know Phase I is going to be hard, particularly alone, but I figure it is only for 2 weeks so I'm going to give it a shot. I also need to get back into running. After I went away to my conference something happened to my life and I need to get it on track again.

How are you doing? Has the stress at work still been lower than before?

What ishappening with everyone else? mette - how is school? I am sure it is keeping you busy. How are your exams going?

Jessica - how is work, life, Mike?

Hey Ang! Wow, so good to hear from you.
Work has been up and down lately for me. I am in the process of getting out and looking for other stuff in the meantime. Stress somedays is alright, somedays horrid.

The diet is discouraging right now. I am fluctuating between 169-171 and have been for like three weeks now. I am going to try a new approach, and do a little bit of Weight Watchers - while choosing the carbs/fats that SB recommends. I think I have cut out too many calories.

I also need to get into some kind of exercise, I still haven't. I am all talk when it comes to that.

Is there any indoor type stuff you could garden? Hope things work out with the bf, you could should find a wintery hobby to do together... like, uh cross country skiiing? I have no idea. :P

Renee - what other types of work/jobs are you looking for? Any luck? Work has been pretty stressful for me to but I'm sure in different ways. I am trying to do too much and still learning how to play nicely with others. :lol:

I'm sorry to hear that the diet is discouraging. Have you been sticking to the plan pretty well? Do you recommend I go ahead and try it? How much weight have you lost since you started? almost 20? I definitely think that exercise is necessary for good health and should definitely help you with continued weight loss. If you're not eating enough that would also stop your weight loss. Maybe mette will come back and can talk more about amounts. Have you thought about counting your calories for 2 or 3 days to just see how much you are truly eating?

What do you think is stopping you from exercising? I haven't exercised either and I think it is partly weather and partly the schedule I am keeping. I am making other things more of a priority than myself - not good. I know I need to sit down and come up with a cold weather exercise plan and just give it a try. I'm not sure if that will mean joining a gym or trying to run at lunch - yuck!

For me and gardening through the winter it will be a little work outside with cold frames (winter lettuce, carrots, beets, etc.). The crops are low maintenance and not very big but at least it's something to do. Come March I am going to start planting seeds in my house. That should be fun. This winter I need to do some reading to learn more about planting inside and how to make the farm more profitable next year. :) I'm also working on helping the old man at the farm clean his house and stuff. That should keep me busy at least for a few more weeks - I may even get a chance to help plaster, paint, etc. If I can learn how to do it there then I can bring the knowledge back to my house. :D

What types of outdoor activities do you like to do in the winter? I enjoy skiing and sledding. I'm not against ice skating too. I think there's stuff to do in the winter, it's just finding time and people to do it with that's the problem for me.

Sorry Ang, and whoever else is peeking in still - I was down in Florida. I totally did not follow the diet, but all that walking around Disney, and I managed to maintain my weight. Now it's back to the drawing board. I'll post more tomorrow. Tired now.

Hi Renee. I hope you had a good time at Disney. Tell me all about it when you have a chance. Are you going back to Phase I with the diet? I have sort of been trying to start the diet but I never make enough time to sit down and plan out groceries and a menu for the first week. Maybe I'm just not committed enough yet. I have just been terrible about grocery shopping (worse than ever) and cooking. At the rate I'm going I won't be eating anything within a year - I bet I would lose weight though.

It's another week - anyone else out there?

Well back at the desk today and trying to keep a good attitude going so far. I have my new stuffed 'Sullivan' (from Monsters Inc.) sitting on my radio to help keep me cheery.

My sister and I go down to visit my dad every year, so it's getting to be routine. We do the parks, the beach, shop, just kick back and do whatever really. We had a lot of ice cream (sometimes twice a day) and Dairy Queen was just about the most staple part of our diet. She gained weight (she has a bad foot and was thus in a wheelchair, not walking) and I maintained (because I was pushing her around all the time haha!) It was a blast though.

I was going to stay on phase II of the diet now. I thought I had slimfast here at work still so didn't bring anything or stop, and now I have nothing! I am in a bit of a panic - but maybe time will go by quickly and lunch will be here. I can eat my snacks too I suppose - then go out and get something more at lunch.

My sister and I did a liberal approach to the SBD and still lost. We both hit plateaus now, (as of abouve 3-4 weeks ago) and haven't budged since. We still think it might have been too few calories. My new plan was to do a SBD/WW - aim for a certain amount of points each day, while choosing foods that would be SB approved. Basically, make sure my carbs are from fruit/veggies and whole grain/whole wheat stuff.

I know that my real hitch is exercice. I don't do it. I could probably bust this plateau if I just got up! I just, am really selfish with my me time. Since I don't enjoy exercise, I'd rather spend it at home with video games, or hanging out with friends.
We'll see. Winter's coming. If we get a good freeze going, I can start skating again!

Anybody still there?
 

Ehm… Is this thing on? Testing 1-2-3. Can anybody hear me??

Or is the thread long dead? Ang, Renee and Jessica – have you all left the forum, or are you still lurking and reading posts sometimes?
How are you doing with your diets and exercising? How are you doing in your lives, jobs, with your boyfriends?

My semester is over and I’m on Christmas vacation. School has been very busy and did take up most of my time this fall. I haven’t been on 3FC much at all the last months, except for posting a few posts in “Ladies who lift”.
My weight maintenance is going very well. In the beginning I moved between 181 and185lbs, but the last month I’ve been stabilizing on 183lbs. I don’t eat any different from what I did when I lost weight, except that I eat more. Somewhere between 1900 and 2000 calories a day. And I try to eat more protein.
I still do weightlifting 3 times a week at the gym, and I really, really like it. I changed my program at the beginning of November (after 3 months), and I’m still getting stronger but not it’s not happening as fast as it did in the beginning. I’m not doing much cardio though, so my aim for the new year is to increase that.

I would love to hear from you guys again. Wish you all a great holiday: a merry Christmas, a happy New Year, and all that!! :)
:merry:

I'm around although life seems to be getting busier each week. It's amazing how you think that life can't get any worse/busier and then wham! something else happens.

I have not been in the forums at all as this was the thread that kept me coming back. I haven't been getting on the computer at home much at all so personal internet/e-mail stuff has slacked. I would be happy to do more at work, but darn it if they don't expect me to actually get some research done while I'm here. :)

I'm glad you are back mette and doing so well with your weight and lifting. How was your semester? Any response from Renee or Jessica? I am getting ready to go to CT for the holidays but will be back with updates of my own. Maybe getting this thread going again would be the motivation I would need to get moving again. I haven't been eating right (emotional eating) and I haven't been exercising much at all. Consequently I have gained at least 5 pounds and it doesn't feel good at all. I finally gave in and realized that I must go buy some new pants to wear. I can't go to work naked. :lol:

Have a Merry Christmas and I'll be back on Sunday, hopefully to a thriving thread. :D

:merry:

Hi Ang, it’s so nice to see posts in our thread again! :D
I haven’t heard anything from Renee or Jessica yet, put perhaps they’ll check in again soon (maybe after New Year?).

So – busy, busy, busy at work? It can be good, as long as you’re not completely stressed out – I suppose? I’m still looking forward to hear what happened to the boyfriend – and where the new one came from. ;)

My semester this fall was fairly good; I took a course in neuropsychology with some hospital practice (mostly neuropsychological testing) and a course in community psychology. I liked the neuropsychology better than the community psychology – real people and patients are more interesting than theories and theoretical populations.
For my next semester I’m basically doing hospital practice for most of the semester – it’s the longest period of external practice we’ll do before we graduate next January. I’m going to work with patients who’re trying to live with chronic pain from diseases like cancer, rheumatism, etc. I’m both completely terrified and looking forward to it!

And I just came back home today from spending Christmas with my mother, so I’m going to vegetate on the sofa today. Tomorrow I’ll find out what happened to the scale after 4 days of eating constantly and completely without restraints. I’ll also get back to the gym for some weightlifting and some cardio tomorrow.

Hope you had a nice holiday Ang! And I hope we’ll get this thread going again too!

Hey guys! Hi hi hi hi hi! So good to see you again! I lurked around but went into hiding when things got so quiet!

Work is going well actually, the stress has vanished and they gave us nice bonuses for Christmas!! Pretty content with where things are and so that is good. Next step. Find husband! LOL!

Weight loss is going great! I am still losing very slowly, but it is adding up quickly. The past 3 weeks has been nothing but cheating, but I haven't gained any weight back, so I am not hating on myself yet. I think what happens, is that I eat some candies/chocolates, then feel sick, then don't eat for a while... etc etc. It's an unhealthy teeter-totter, but now that holiday stuff is over, so should it be over!

I really want to get back into going to the gym, as I haven't touched it in months. I know that many people do this as their resolutions and I am prepared to have a busier than normal gym for a while. I told myself, too bad, you're going anyway, get over it. :) I 25 lbs to lose to get to my goal weight, and intend to get there by May 1st (Which I think is totally doable at 6lbs a month.) Softball should be great by then!

Also, in another 5lbs I reach my next mini goal in which I sign up for riding lessons again, which is only going to account for more exercise! (Great for the legs and butt too, woo!)

Good to see you gals, happy holidays and wishes for a bright new year!

Yey! We're back!
 

I second both the “hi hi hi hi hi!” and the “So good to see you again!”!! :lol:

Renee – so good to hear that both work and weight loss are going well! As for looking for a husband, I think you should talk to Ang about it – she seems to pick up new boyfriends very easily?? ;)
(Still waiting for the story behind that, Ang!)

It’s good news that you don’t gain weight back when you’re eating off your diet, Renee. How is your sister doing? Is she doing just as well as you on her diet?
Love your weight loss goal for 2005!

As for the holiday binge: I consider the feast over now! We’ll get back to normal now, right??? I spent the Christmas weekend with my mother – and did (surprisingly!) not gain any weight. But I did get back to the gym today for 45 minutes of cardio – (I felt really great after: A big “Yey!” for endorphins!) - and I’ll do weights tomorrow!

Hope everybody is having a great day! :)

Wow!
 

Hi Ladies - you both are just what I needed. It's good to be back and I hope we can continue to keep in touch even with our busy schedules.

First to respond to your posts...

I am so glad you are both doing so well. I am sooooo happy for you and sad for myself at the same time. I hope to get motivated and inspired by both of you. More on me later....

mette - It sounds like you had a good semester and a very interesting one coming up. I still envy you being at school. I miss school so much. This real world stuff isn't all that it's cracke dup to be. :?: Your 'assignment' for next semester sounds very interesting. I can also understand your apprehension though. What are your goals with these people? When do you start?

Congratulations to both of you on not gaining weight over the holidays. I think it is a testament to how you have 'conditioned' your bodies. I guess dedication does pay off. mette - good foryou for getting right back to the gym Renee - I think we need to take a cue from mette and get to the gym ourselves. I did just agree to get a treadmill from this guy in town who is giving an old one away for free. You can only walk on it but that should be better than nothing (which is what I am doing right now). The weather here is really cold and I think I have SAD (seasonal affective disorder) so I need to do something. I'm hoping having the treadmill in the house will help me get moving at least a little during the week. We'll see.

mette - how was your visit with your mother? Did you have a good time? Renee - what did you do for the holidays?

Renee - I can't believe how well you have done with your weight loss - congratulations! :cheer: Are you still doing a modified South Beach Diet? What happened at work that all of the stress is gone? I think it's great though. Life must be so much better without stress at work. Your goal definitely sounds reasonable - the weight one that is. :lol: Of course getting a husband is reasonable but definitely not easy - regardless of how easy I may seem to find boyfriends - I always seem to find the ones with problems.

Shoot - it's getting late but I want to give you a brief update. I finally got sick of not getting anything from my bf and got him to sit down and talk to me. He told me everything I had guessed...too much stress at work, not happy with himself, nothing to give to a relationship.... ok, no surprise but why he couldn't tell me 6 months ago I don't know. We broke up because I want more and he can't give it and wasn't giving me any indication that anything was going to change, ever. We are still 'friends' and plan to do the farming together in the spring. I'm not sure if he has totally giving up on us but for now not too much has changed in his life and he isn't making any moves these days to see me so I've given up...unfortunately there is still some sick connection I have with him but that's a different story that I can't explain but need to deal with soon.

Meanwhile, the farmer (that old man I leased my garden from - I hope you remember) had two strokes and he is not doing well. I am dong my best to help out with that situation and it is a mess. Not important for here and too strange to explain in less than 10 pages. Let's just say the police are involved and it is a mess. I'm just trying to be a friend to the old man while he is in the hospital (on his way to a nursing home forever :( ). After his first stroke (about 3 months ago) his nephew came back into his life. At this time I had gotten rid of bf and this guy showed a lot of interest. We are seeing each other. He has his issues (a big one or two) but he seems like a good guy and he really seems to care about me. He makes time to see me and does everything for me that he can. He is almost opposite to the last bf. He is a bit older than me (46 compared to 40 for the last bf) but wants to have more children. Yes, he has two sons (14 and 16). Here's the bad part - please no judging - he is still married. He has been 'separated' (although still living in house) for ~8 months and will be moving out within the next 2 weeks (if he doesn't he is history). I'm trying to be patient and trying to not feel completely terrible for what is happening. He swears the marriage was over way before he met me, but still.

Believe it or not that's the short version of my story. Feel free to inquire about any part of it. The bottom line is that the stress of deadlines at work combined with the stresses at home (personal relationships and trying to removate my old house) and the cold and dark weather have made me stop exercising and I have started binging again. I have gained about 10 pounds and don't fit into my pants and I'm terrified. I don't know if I have anything to wear to work tomorrow that fits. I know I need to just go to the store and buy a couple of things that are bigger to wear for now. I just didn't want to admit that it had gotten this bad. I'm scared and it just makes me eat more and move less.

I can really use the support of friends and hope that the two of you have time for this thread again. I can use the help and I know it helps me to be able to be there to support others too. So welcome back and Happy New Year to us!

I think we can keep this thread alive and give each other support, too! I have really missed the routine of daily checking in and being kept accountable! I want ‘The Pact’ and 3FC back as a daily habit again.

Ang – you really have had a stressful couple of months. Sorry about your neighbor, does this mean that you can lose the garden next summer? If he goes to a nursing home and the farm is sold?
I’m sorry about your breakup with the ex-bf too – but it was reasonable to break-up since you didn’t get what you wanted from the relationship, wasn’t it? The nephew /new bf sounds like a nice guy, and you probably could use a man who’s ready to commit to you. As for him being married, Ang – just take care of yourself: as long as you’re not too patient and don’t wait around too long for him – and as long as he actually moves out from his wife – being married in itself doesn’t make him a bad guy. I’m wondering about becoming a stepmother for two teenage boys though! That sounds challenging! ;)

I’m so sorry to hear you’re binging and feeling out of control with your eating. I know I’ve been there too, and it takes a bit of time and some slow steps to get everything back together again. You’re completely right that you need to start with getting hold of clothes that fit you: You really don’t need the extra stress of not having clothes to wear at work! So one small step could be to get some new clothes.
And coming here every day and write posts can be another small step. To write about it will start you thinking about it again, and with that: thinking about solutions too. It’s good to write about the stress in our lives, and then getting feedback and support from others. It’s great to have others cheering you on, and that’s exactly what we can do for each other here! :D

I do know I’m lucky being at school, I’m sure I’ll miss it a lot when I start working again.
As for my hospital practice this spring; I think it’ll start the last week of January but I’m meeting my supervisor/adviser next week. I’ve just talked to him on the phone so far, but he seemed nice enough, and I think he’ll give me some reading assignments – so that I can prepare a little. I think the work I’ll be doing deals with how patients better can handle living with chronic pain, and also working with the psychological ramifications of being critically ill. So yes: scary stuff!

As for exercising – walking on the treadmill sounds like an excellent idea! Something you can do indoor, and perhaps while doing other stuff like watching TV (with headphones) or listening to music or books. Have you tried light therapy for your SAD? I hear many benefits from it.

The Christmas weekend with my mother was OK, but it’s very nice to be back home again. How is your mother doing, Ang? Did you spend Christmas with your parents, and did you enjoy it?

I’ve been to the gym doing legs today. I actually did 110lbs squats today!!! It’s a new record for me, and it feels really great to become stronger. I still miss other girls in the weight room at the gym though.
Have a nice day everybody – I’m going to enjoy my vacation and play some Sims2 and watch some old X-files episodes from season 6.

Hey there ladies. Woo I was hoping that the activity I saw was going to keep going. Yaay.

I am so tired today, just blah and bleary and groggy and want to curl back up in bed. Ang- I totally believe I have SAD too, though I've never gone through the effort of seeing a doctor, mostly because I asked work once if they'd bother doing anything to help me through it and they said no. (Like, I work in the inner most office that has no windows, and looks into the hall that has no windows, etc etc. - when there is an unused window office down the hall!) Our winter has been exceptionally grey. In fact, I think we've had about ten sunny days since Oct. >.< It just zaps me! As for the nephew thing, I tend to agree with what Mette already said. My brother married a woman who had two teenagers, and they being the spoiled angry sort, give him nothing but grief. So it's a big big decision. Just make sure that he is interested in you for you, and not as a way out of the other thing. :( Sometimes guys can be a little slow.

Mette- You really need to clue us in on your secrets of this gym going thing. Between the grey days, the freezing temperatures, I get in my car and want to race straight home. No WAY am I going to go someplace to get all sweaty and then go back out in the cold :) Though I know I would benefit SO much at this point in things, by going.

I am starting to get impatient about the last 5lbs I need to lose before finding horse back riding lessons. But I also don't want to cheat and go early because I want to teach myself to be accountable towards my goals.

In other things, my poor stomach has been off for a week. I feel constantly bloated and tender tummied. I think that my lack of good food has clogged me up a bit or something. A serious lack of fiber and veggies I guess. :( I get cracvings, but never feel hungry.

The SB diet... yah, way modified as of late. :lol: I still follow the basic 'avoid bad carbs' thing. And if they don't offer good carbs (many places don't) then it's a 'choose whatever has the least amount of those bad carbs'. To be honest though, I really can't say we've followed it much at all these past weeks. Though we really have given up on potatoes and french fries and junk.

Anyway, back to doing nothing at work. :)

It just dawned on me that today is Tuesday. Since I worked from home yesterday my schedule is all off - in a good way at least. :)

The good thing about the garden is that the property is actually part of an estate for the famiily. The newphew will be getting the house and moving in there. He is actually getting some renovations done next week so he can move out of his house. At least he is making progress. I don't doubt that he will physically be away from his house/wife very soon. The bottomline is that he has already told us (3 people) that we are welcome to do our gardens again this year. Planning for that is actually getting underway now and it is one of the bright spots of this winter.

I agree with both of you that I need to be careful about the bf situation. After he moves out we can be more public and I will be able to meet his children. Only time will tell how it goes. Luckily they are not that young and they are pretty independent. I doubt he would even have actual custody of them - just visits and stuff. Time will tell with all of that too. I'll keep you posted. For now I'm just trying to enjoy the time together and the help he is giving me in renovated my house. Did I mention that he is VERY handy?

My life definitely needs an overhaul. I agree that small steps are the only way to go. I'm going to get to the store this week then I will try to start thinking about the next step. One thing at a time I think.

mette - good luck with your supervisor. Maybe reading a little will help you feel more secure in the situation.

I spent the holiday with family, including my mother. She is doing well. She still has a little trouble with her foot (slow to heal) but otherwise she is back to status quo. She is supposed to come visit again later in January so that will be good. It was nice to see my niece and nephew. I don't see many kids around here and they are so loving and it doesn't take much to make them happy. It's a nice change.

Good job mette on getting to the gym today. Another squat record - bravo! :bravo: Are there girls in other parts of the gym? Maybe you could convince some to join you in the weight room. I think if women could see other women lifitng they would feel more secure about joining. I know I would.

Renee - are you feeling sick today or just a little run down?

I don't know that I actually have SAD but I get the symptoms every year at the same time. I haven't ever tried conventional light therapy but I have had UV lights and I always keep a lot of extra lights on in the house. I am thinking of investing in a broad spectrum light. Renee - have you ever thought of getting a broad spectrum light for your office? It's too bad your work isn't more accommodating. I am lucky to have a window but it doesn't do enough good.

Amen to Renee's thoughts on going to the gym after work. It's hard enough to stop and run errands if I have to.

Renee - maybe you could use the horseback riding lessons as an incentive to get moving. As you get close to your goal weight it is going to be harder and harder to lose without exercising. You've done so well without exercising, you could be at goal weight in no time if you were moving too. Could you try a small goal (even 15 minutes)? Could you do a videotape inside?

I also have intestinal issues when I don't eat right. Do you eat cereal? Fiber One has an incredible amount of fiber for very little volume. It usually doesn't take me more than a few days for my stomach to feel better after eating better. Exercise helps with that too - btw. :D

Enjoy your day off mette and Renee, enjoy doing nothing at work - that sounds nice too. I guess I know why there is no stress at work - there's no work. :lol:

I have a paper due by Thursday so I'm totally stressed. Better get back to it.

Hi guys. I’m back for my daily check-in. It hasn’t been that hard for me to go back to my normal eating after the Big Christmas Week Binge; I’ve had some cravings for sugar and sweets, especially at nights, this week – but I’ve done OK with my eating. So that’s a good thing.

The secrets of getting to the gym? Well, actually, studies show that 75 percent of the people exercising in the morning are still exercising one year later, while only 50 percent of the people exercising at noon, and only 25 percent of the people who wait until the end of the day, are still exercising one year later.
So maybe you could try exercising before work, and see how that works for you?
It’s also about creating habits: it takes at least eight weeks, and usually more, for behavioral changes to develop. And discipline and habits don’t just appear – at least not for me ;) – they are created and solidified through actions and performing the wanted behavior. It’s just by making yourself exercise for more than 8 weeks you will be on your way to making it a habit.
Not the magic answer you would have wanted, is it? So far I’ve found no easy solutions – but I’ll let you know if I do, OK? :D (If you find an easier way, I want to hear about it too….)
I also like Ang’s suggestion: exercising at home, maybe using a video or a couple of dumbbells.

Ang – a handy bf when you’re living in an old house sounds like a dream come true!!! Good for you! :D It’s also good to hear that your mother is doing well.

As for other women at the gym – there are some, but they seem happy staying with the machines in the ‘common’ area of the gym. Besides, since I work out in the morning there aren’t many people there, and it could be more women in the weight room in the afternoon or at night. It’s just that if I should rely on getting to the gym after a full day of work/studying/reading/doing stuff – I would never get there either. It’s just like you guys are saying. The gym is crowded and uncomfortable in the afternoon, you’re hungry and tired, and it would be so much more tempting and easy to just go straight home from school or work.

I really recommend trying to exercise in the morning: it feels so good when you’re done, and it’s still morning and you have the whole day before you, and you don’t have to think about exercising anymore that day. It feels great!
Don’t you agree, Ang? You used to run in the mornings when you were at school didn’t you?

And also: Good luck on your paper, Ang!

In the morning? >.< Oh dear that would be so awful! I start work at 8:30 so need to leave the house by 8:00 which means my alarm goes off at 7:45. I take my showers at night, so morning is just up, dress, teeth, hair, fly. It takes me like 45 minutes to actually be brain-awake though, so I can't imagine getting up at like 6am to go get sweaty and move. That'd also mean I'd have to go to bed earlier, and so it still cuts time out of MY day for doing what I want. It's so awful. I don't think this exercise thing is going to work until I stop seeing it as the enemy of fun. I am bitter towards it!! :lol:

I could maybe do a video tape at home. I've done the Zumba tape twice, and actually kind of enjoyed it, but it's hard to find room to actually do the moves and stuff as they are intended. We'll see.

Riding will be a form of exercise, but at once a week, just not enough. And once spring hits, I will have Softball too. But until then? Gah. And winter doesn't help. I used to at least sometimes, skate during my lunch, or go for walks, or bike rides after work. Can't do that when it's only 15 degrees out. :(

Well, today is another insanely boring day at work and I am getting stir crazy. At least I don't have a sweet tooth today, so I am avoiding the sweets alright for now.
I suppose I could eat my lunch early, then go do shopping at lunch.

Hmm, I'll come back and write more later.

Hey there. I'm getting my butt kicked by this paper so this will be short.

mette - what are you doing to combat your cravings? I am been eating way too much chocolate these days. I know it has to stop but I seem to have no will power. It's comforting.

I agree that the morning is best for exercise. I was able to do it before school because I had a flexible schedule. I don't think I can get up at 6am now though to exercise before work. Maybe it just comes down to what I want most. mette - what time do you get up to workout?

Renee - you're lucky you get to sleep so late. I get up at 7am and count myself lucky for that time. I think the key thing about exercise is to do something fun that also is exercise. I tried aerobics classes, for instance, and hated them so I didn't stick with it. I love to ride my bike though so it's easy to get out. I guess you could say the same thing about farming. As for the videos - if you don't have enough room just do the best you can and modify the moves. The important thing is that you are moving, not that you are duplicating them perfectly (I've gone through this too.). The key is to do something, even if its only for a short time. Do you have stairs at work or long hallways?

I guess I should heed my own advice. I didn't walk at lunch today because I had an appointment and then I didn't want to get all muddy. The snow is starting to melt and mixes with the sand. Yuck!

I wanted to let you both know that I had a long talk with ex-bf yesterday. It was nice to talk to him and I shared a lot of things with him about how I felt about our relationship and what happened. It began the closure and I really need that. Closure is so important and I never got that. He also guessed that I was seeing someone else and I confirmed that for him. He was not very happy about it. I think he hoped I would wait around forever for him. I just couldn't do that without some reason to beleive that things would be good on the other end. I'm sorry I hurt him but it had to be done. He didn't call today even though he said he would. I guess I'll have to wait and see if he truly wants to be friends and do the farm or if he was just trying to keep me around for something more. I just don't understand why I can't let him go easily. Why do we have to love the ones that are bad for us?

Enjoy your afternoons.

OK, so maybe this morning exercise isn’t for everyone…. :p

Looking for a fun exercise??? Weightlifting is fun!!! What’s the fun of weightlifting? It’s lifting more and becoming stronger every week! For the first months your strength improves really fast. And it’s fun!! Really it is!!! :D
(Or perhaps it’s an acquired taste? (heh…))

Renee – doing videos at home sounds like a good idea until spring comes around and you can do outdoor stuff! Sometimes it’s just about getting through the winter…

I get up at 6:25 to get to the gym when they open at 7 when I work out in the mornings. I get out of bed, get dressed in gym clothes, have a shake (yogurt, banana, protein powder), and walk to the gym. I work out for maybe an hour – depending on how much cardio I do (and have time for). Classes and lectures normally start around 9, so it gives me time to shower, change and eat breakfast before the day starts. The best thing about it is that when I get to class I’ve already finished working out for the day.

Ang – I think your attitude toward exercising is very good. I also think it’s about doing *something*, no matter how little to start with. Small steps, building habits, and all that – I totally agree.
And good for you that you are starting to let go of the ex-bf. It’s probably good for both of you that he knows you have moved on and are seeing somebody else, and that you’re not waiting around for him anymore. Good for you, Ang! I know you loved him, and that he cared for you too, and that letting go is hard. But it still sounds as if you’re doing well – and that you remember that you never got what you wanted from the relationship.

Originally Posted by shyangel:
mette - what are you doing to combat your cravings? I am been eating way too much chocolate these days. I know it has to stop but I seem to have no will power. It's comforting.

Oh yes, chocolate is very comforting. As a drug it works perfect! It comforts us, makes us feel better, and makes us feel taken cared of, warm, and safe. It sometimes seems to get associated with every good and warm feeling you have when you’re eating it. It’s not until later the self-blaming, guilt, and shame appears.
When I have cravings for chocolate I usually eat it; but I don’t eat much, and the chocolate I eat is the really dark, bitter, and sugar free type. I love dark chocolate with coffee, and it’s not a type of chocolate that triggers binging or overeating – because it tastes so rich.
Sometimes, if I don’t want to eat chocolate, I substitute the cravings with other things - like fruit, berries, smoothies, nuts, etc. What I’ve found is that for the substitute to work it has to feel luxurious and feel like a treat, because that’s the whole point for me. Carrots will not do. But smoothies made of frozen blueberries and vanilla yogurt sometimes will, and warm blackberries with vanilla yogurt sometimes will. It must feel like a treat, like a reward, like something good I give myself.
If the cravings still don’t go away, I’ll usually try to ignore them – and see if it passes. Right now – in winter - I’ll try to drink some hot spicy tea. I’ll try to eat some real food to see if it goes away. I’ll try doing something else, keeping busy.

I just became very obvious to me – writing this down - that I actually have a lot of good strategies for dealing with cravings. And along the way, I’ve sort of figured out things that work for me.
How do you guys deal with cravings? Do you do some of the things I do? Do you do other things?

Well. I went to the gym and did upper body today. And my record for the day is bench pressing a complete set of 75lbs! My ultimate goal is to bench press my body weight – but that is a long time away (besides I still got at least 20lbs to lose – so I’m aiming for somewhere around 160lbs – but that’s still more than double what I lift now). It’s possibly a goal for 2006. For 2005 I want to lift my bodyweight in squats (not too far off there! :D ).

Hope you both have a great day!

Wow benching 75 is really impressive for a girl! I remember in high school I did a weight lifting class, and it was the squats I was great at. I think I squatted 230 by the end of the semester, and the coach would always embarass me. I remember his words as if they happened yesterday! - "See fella's that's the kind of girl you want to marry, the kind that can carry the cows home!" I actually really enjoyed weight lifting in high school, but when I do stuff at the gym, I am doing it because I have to, not because I want to. Do you take a notepad with or something? That you write down what you've done, what weight and how many reps? Maybe if I documented my session I'd get more into it. But then I'd feel like a dork in there with my little notepad.

Slowly starting to get back on the eating track, and lordy do I need to. The digestive system has reached an all time slow, and things are just uncomfortable all around. To the point where I am afraid I am going to hurt myself trying to get past them. (What delicate choices of words haha!) :lol: I drink a lot of water, but haven't had veggies or fruits in literally, weeks. Maybe I should start taking some metamucil until I get better on the eating my fiber stuff.

Hoping to get out of work early. It's slow today, so so slow. And I think, maybe, if I am feeling good, and I get out of work early enough, I may try to go to the gym for a bit. Or I could rush home to play my video games. Gah. I am so bad.

Ang- I know how hard it is dealing with the ex stuff. My best friend was a guy, for seven years we were best friends, though he always wanted more. When he pulled the 'we have to be more than this, or nothing at all' I caved in and gave it a shot. Things went awful and it cascaded into a total falling out, which I don't think will ever be repaired. I still 'love' him as a best friend, so it's hard to swallow the pill that you might not be able to interact with them anymore. In time it gets better though, and you move on. Hang in there and be patient.

Mette- I think we should crown you as motivational ringleader for the time being! Reading your suggestions and watching how excited you are about your lifting always makes me want to go do it! I just need to read this forum at the end of the day, instead of the morning when I am stuck at work!

Today was one of my McDonalds breakfast days. I love their burritoes, and while high in fat, they aren't too high in bad carbs. I allow myself to have them twice a week and today was my second one. Of course, with the other issues going on, it sort of hit my tummy hard, so I am trying to guzzle the water. Like you girls said, when you are uncomfortable, chocolate is comforting and we have tins full in the work kitchen. This is very bad! :p I shall try to stay put.

Well, I will likely not check back in until Monday - so have a safe and happy new year!

I talked with my bf and we are going to check out the YMCA tomorrow. If it is 'satisfactory' then he may join with me. If we schedule times to go together I know I'll stick with it. I'll let you know how it goes.

I went and bought a pair of pants yesterday. At least they fit well enough that I am not too uncomfortable. I guess I should get at least one more and in the meantime loss some weight so I can wear the closet full of clothes I already own.

mette - you definitely seem to have figured out eating for yourself. These days I tend to give in to cravings. Now that the holidays are ending I need to remove the sweets from my house. In the past I have tried to substitute. I like this fat free pudding and I have picked up a couple of things from the SBD book. My problem is more emotional eating. When I get upset I don't employ my good tactics, therefore I am working on improving my emotional/mental well being.

Congratulations mette on the gym. 75lbs benching is great. I think goals are good for exercise and eating. What weight are you at for squats?

Renee - in the past when I've been to the gym there were lots of people writing down things. The ones who were haphazard about it were the ones who didn't look as impressive.

How about going to the gym and then going home to play games? You can do both. I just got back from a 30 minute walk. Except that my feet hurt because I am not in the right shoes, it was good to get out.

I agree that this forum is very motivational. Renee - you and I can definitely learn a thing or two from mette.

Good luck staying away from the chocolate Renee and Happy New Year.

Gotta finish this paper. See you later.

Just a short one today!

Renee – wow girl, you should really consider to start weightlifting again! You’re very strong, and doing 230lbs squats is very impressive!!! And if lifting weights was something you enjoyed – well, this could really be something you’d like.
And I *always* bring a notepad and pencil to the gym: I write down how much I lift, how many reps I do – and I follow the same program every week. This is the way I measure my progress – and it wouldn’t be half the fun without it!!
Do I look like a dork? I don’t think so actually. Instead I look like someone who takes her weightlifting serious – and you know, Jessica said something important to me when I first started going to the gym: she said that people never notice you as much as you think they do. And it’s true: they’re too busy worrying how they look or appear.
I really think you should consider giving weightlifting another try Renee – you might actually find something you really enjoy!

Ang – hope you and the bf liked and joined the YMCA: an exercise buddy makes it so much easier to get into a routine.

I’m at 110lbs for squats this week – so I’m way off Renee’s record (yet). When I started in August I did 45lbs, so I’m happy with my progress – and my goal for 2005 is to squat my own body weight (depending on how much I weigh by December I suppose…).

Talk to you both later. Wish you both a happy new year!

I hope you both had a Happy New Year. I spent a quiet evening with bf. It was nice. Yesterday was unproductive though, except for visiting my friend in the hospital. Today I'm in a quandry. I am not normally one of those people that makes New Year's resolutions but it seems that you can't help taking stock in your life at least a little bit.

Bf and I liked the Y but he doesn't really want to join from where he lives now - too far away. I'm reluctant to join myself because I'm afraid I won't go enough and I can't afford to waste the money.

I feel like I'm living too much in the moment and really need to take stock in what I want for my future, at least for this year. Things are starting to roll fast with the farming stuff and it takes time and money just to plan and who knows what's going to be happening...just so much that involves so many people and I'm in the middle. It's just hard.

mette - it seems that you have made awesome progress at the gym. The Y has nautilus machines - I don't really know what they are but they give you a lesson when you join. I guess I need to check out Krista's site again to try to make a plan for lifting.

Renee - how did things go at work on Thursday? Were you able to stay away from the chocolate?

What did you ladies do for the New Year?

How are your new years going? Today was a typical Monday. I did get in a little walk at lunch before I had a very tough talk with bf that put me in tears. To be fair, I was already emotional about some other stuff so he just sent me over the edge. Eating still terrible but a little walking better than nothing. I also went for a short run yesterday. It was cold and I wasn't dressed properly but it was still good to get out. I think I ran about 1.5 miles and then walked about 0.5 miles. The cold air and the lunch I ate prior to the run kind of made my stomach and lungs hurt.

I spent most of tonight on the phone with friends and then doing a little laundry and cleaning. I wish I could just get the gumption to clean before 10pm. What do you think is up with that? Now it's 11:30pm and I'm wide awak but have to get up in the morning to go to work. Hmmm....I definitely don't understand myself and doubt I ever will. Oh well.

How are you ladies?

Hi Ang! I’m here! I haven’t gone anywhere!!! :D

My New Year celebration was rather quiet too; I was watching reruns of Buffy when the New Year came around. .

I haven’t tried nautilus machines, but they're all about building strength, aren’t they? Did you like the people at the Y? Did you like the place? Do you see it as a place you could enjoy working out?
I think you're doing well with your exercise: *both* a run and a walk! Good for you! And remember: Baby steps, Ang! :^:

I spent yesterday with friends I haven’t seen all Christmas, so there was a lot of coffee and a lot of talking going on.
I’ve also started reading up on SPSS, one of the statistical programs we’re using – I’m trying to save my self some problems by actually learning how I best can use it. Trying to learn it properly for once… ;)

Hope you’re feeling better, Ang. Hang in there! :grouphug:

Good morning.

Today is already going better. I'm trying to get caught up on everything I didn't finish yesterday. So far so good.

Buffy sounds like a pretty good way to end the year. I never did catch the last episode of that show (or Angel). Did you watch Angel? I was just happy for the extra time off from work.

I know nautilus is for weight training but wasn't able to get close enough to see how they work. If I have to go by myself it might be safer not to use free weights. The people seemed nice enough. It's a family oriented place and fairly new so it is clean and has new stuff, which is good. I would be comfortable working out there (even though there is only one big room for men and women and for cardio (except for the classes) as long as I can figure out how to put it in my schedule. I don't want to give up too much time with bf and I have so much work to get done at house this winter (painting and stuff). I'm just torn so I'm decided by not deciding and that's not good. Thanks for the encouragement - today is rainy so I'm not sure what I am going to do to get a little movement in today. Did you go to the gym?

A day with friends sounds wonderfful!

I use SPSS at work too. I took a class on cd over the summer. It was very helpful to get me acclimated to the program. I don't remember everything but I can always go back and there are always reference books. I just like knowing what its capabilities are and aren't - it's definitely not a perfect program. Good luck.

How do you define the perfect pull-up?

Maybe I should make some goals for 2005. I'll think about it. Renee - how are you? Do you have goals for 2005?

Morning ladies!

Well the holiday sttretch is over and that means this fatchick has /got/ to get back on her best behaviour. I failed yesterday! I started off so well, as it was the first Monday in about five weeks I didn't stop for my Monday McDonalds. Instead, I picked up some Kashi Autumn Harvest shredded wheat cereal and skim milk to keep at work and I had a bowl. At lunch, I was opting for ramen because it was cheap and easy and here. (I know it's not good for you, but I am not being so picky) Well it tasted SO bad. I got through about 5 spoons and couldn't do another mouthful. I had bought it on sale at Target, I guess there *is* a difference between brands of ramen. Well it was now 12:45 and my lunch ends at 1pm and so I was out of time to go run for something new. I ended up splitting a pizza with someone, and GOD was it good. Dinner ended up being cheese and crackers, ice cream and nachos. I think that maybe it's getting close to my monthly visitor based on that menu! Good grief. I didn't go OVERboard with portions, but geez, crappy selections all day.

Today, I started off with my cereal, I will eat my OTHER kind of Ramen for lunch and then have whole wheat pasta and spaghetti for dinner. I also already talked my sister into going to the gym tomorrow, so yaaay! My goal for today is to write up a little sheet that I can keep track of my progress with, or maybe run to the Walgreens and pick up a tiny note book to use. Or maybe I will use the normal sized notebook I have already. I can keep track of my sister and I both.

It's funny because we took before pictures when we started this, and I've been hounding her to get on landing new pics now, because I know for a fact that we physically look different and I think it'd be encouraging to SEE that for ourselves. The whole ' Camera doesn't lie ' bit. It was a real shocker when we looked at our first pics. Wow. Heh.

I need to get back on track with my lunches I think. Or rather, lunches and snacks. I think I will pack tomorrow's lunch, tonight before bed. That was working well.

My new years was quiet as well, I was playing my favorite video game, World of Warcraft. It sounds icky yes I know heh, but it's one of those online games where you log in, play with thousands of other people all at once, run around and kill monsters, gain your levels, hunt for good loot and perform noble quests! Hahahaha. I play with my friend from Canada, whom I have known over ten years now, and had dated for a while. To be honest, we are still pretty soft on eachother, but we are nothing 'official'.

Work has been slow so far this week, I guess people are still crawling back into routine. Sounds like we are all stepping into the New Year and being ready to shine!

As for goals - Well, I am aiming for 130 by May1st. Which is doable, if I really stick with everything. And then. Holy smokes, I can't even describe what it'll be like. By Oct, I should get my braces off. I will be like a whole new person.

I should set more/more detailed goals. I think I'll work on that. Er, right after I put together my weight lifting sheet!

Welcome back Renee. :D

How did things go today at lunch? It sounds like you have made some good changes to your diet and good luck with the gym. Make sure you tell us all about it.

It is definitely hard to be 'good' when things don't go as planned. I find that to be a big problem - you must eat and you don't have anything healthy around. Congratulations on not going to McD. One meal at a time.

Today went ok for me. bf had dinner waiting for me when I got home. We painted and had a good time. Why I have to eat after he leaves I'll never know. Tonight wasn't as bad as some nights but still, I know I shouldn't be eating, and definitely not past 10pm.

Gotta go to bed but wanted to check in. Have a good night.

Hi guys – I’m having some quiet days before everything starts up again. I’m doing some reading, and have been trying to organize my papers, and put together some kind of reading list for the semester. The weather is bad, but that’s OK since I don’t have to go outside much.

And yes, I did put my weightlifting goals for 2005 in my signature: visible every day! :D And, aren’t they very concrete and specific? I made them easy to measure and evaluate!
I won’t have to wonder whether I actually reach them or not. (I’ve tried vague goals, like “getting healthy”, etc before, but they’re completely hopeless if you haven’t defined what that actually means for you – which I never did….). So this year I’m being very specific! :D
And one perfect pull-up: I mean one pull-up executed with perfect form. And I’m nowhere close being able to do that now.
According to Krista, a good way to start is to build up strength by doing ‘lat pull downs’ until you lift 70% of your bodyweight. Then you can start practice on the Pull-down bar. So for the first months I’m working on improving the weight I lift on my ‘lat pull downs’.

I used to watch Buffy a lot – and I especially loved the first 5 seasons. I also watched Angel, and was really sad when they cancelled the show last spring; it was still very good when it ended. Buffy never got bad either, just a little bit weaker by the end of season 7. Not like X-files – which I loved obsessively for years – that ended horribly. The last two seasons were so bad that I’ve now decided they never happened… ;)

Looking forward to learn from you how the nautilus machines work, if you decide to start, Ang. I understand that your decision is difficult – maybe it would be better to let the whole thing wait a bit?

Renee – good for you that you improved your food choices! And a big Yey for going to the gym too!
So, you were impressed by how you look now compared to when you started out losing weight? That is so great! We really do get so used to living in our bodies that we forget they ever used to look any different than they do right now. I like your goals too!

Ang – it sounds nice to have your bf helping you paint in the evenings! I’m so glad you found somebody who’s spending time with you! :love:

OK ladies – have a nice day out there today!

Morning all.

Well I came to work with a bad attitude. We got 2" of snow last night which is no big deal. The big deal, is that between now and Thursday night, we are supposed to get up to 12" more of it. My boss is a right ******* when it comes to this, and I know he won't let us leave early to avoid some of the mess. It frustrates me, because when you are talking this much snow, it means the plows won't be able to keep up and it's actually dangerous to be driving.

Last night's dinner blew up. My sister had said she was making whole wheat spaghetti, and I had a wonderful eating day up until then. Well she had ended up going out with coworkers, and would not be home till 6:30 and dinner wouldn't be set until 7:00. I had made plans with folks to do something immediately after dinner, thinking dinner would have been at 6:00 and so I had to go fetch my own food. Now, I was also STARVED because I ate an early lunch, so I drove to McDonalds and had a burger and fries. It was the first burger and fries from a fast food place since August, and I feel soooo bad that I cheated on it. It didn't even taste good. Well, ok the fries were yummy, but the burger was so nasty, and all night when I burped it up, it tasted like old rotten fish? Weird.

So back on track today. Had my cereal, I have the left over pasta for lunch, and will likely have it for dinner. We were supposed to go to the gym tonight, but based on the weather forecast, I really doubt we will risk driving through the snow for it.

Ang- If you always eat after he leaves, it sounds like it's an emotional trigger. Like maybe you feel at a loss of what to do once he goes, and you turn to food. Maybe start a routine of doing something else? Like, as soon as he goes, you take a bath? Or even better yet, maybe do some stretches, or easy at home exercises. Rewire that part of your routine.

Mette- I am so jealous of you and your taking it easy! I wanna take it easy. I like your goals too. I think I will really sit down and make out some goals with clear definitions. I do a lot of those, 'be healthier' kind of goals. Well, what's healthier?

Did I ever tell you gals, that the last softball game of the season, I hit not one, but two doubles and landed on 2nd base for both of them? I just thought of that, because I have it in my signature as a joke, but I suppose it could have been a goal. It was great, because my whole team was cheering me on and going, "Renee!! You made it to second!" And even one of the guys said, "Damn I never seen you move so fast, what's gotten into you?" - I just grinned and said, "Nothing, twenty pounds has gotten out!"

Anyway, that's it for now. Take care!

mette - enjoy your quiet time and pamper yourself a little. I'm sure you will be very busy once the semester starts.

I have been thinking about my health goals for 2005. What do you think...
Weight less than 170lbs.
Weightlifting routine at least 2 days a week
Let bf pick me up (as in lift me in his arms)
Cook at home at least 2 days a week

I could NEVER do a pull up. In school we had to hold ourselves up to the bar and I couldn't even do that. I wasn't small as a child either.

I decided to wait on the Y since I am planning on painting after work a lot of days and next week I have a friend coming. I'm not saying I want to wait to lose weight, but sometimes it just isn't the time. I walked yesterday at lunch and I'm trying to watch what I eat as best I can. When I can do more I will.

I watch Angel in the mornings as I get ready for work. I'm hoping to catch the episodes I missed, like the last one. I agree with you about X-files. I liked David Duchovny (Fox Mulder really), so when he left it was harder to stay interested. Renee - did you watch any of these shows?

Before pictures (or any pictures) can be scary. I was cleaning up some digital pics and saw what I looked like a couple of years ago - what was I thinking? A few years I saw a picture of me (don't usually have pics taken) and until then had not realized quite how big I had gotten. It is an eye opener. Renee - stay on your sister so you can get those new pics - reality checks can be positive too. :D

We're getting snow right now - it stinks. Renee - be careful driving. Maybe try to take some time to do something fun in the snow (e.g. snowball fight or sledding).

Renee - next time you want a burger just remember how bad that one was last night. Take the positive out of the situation and realize it was a learning experience. Great that you are back on track. Do you think your sister would be up for doing something in the house with you since you can't go to the gym?

Renee - if bf can get through the snow tonight I'll try your idea after he leaves. I definitely have emotional triggers. I'm thinking of bringing a mat down to the living room and starting to stretch again to regain some of the flexibility that I lost. Thanks for the insight and good idea. ;)

Congratulations Renee on the doubles. :cb: You hadn't mentioned it and I had noticed it in your signature. So you made your 2004 goal then. ;)

Enjoy your afternoons.

What would you think of starting a new thread for 2005? We're at page 12 and I thought it might make it easier, although it makes it harder to look back. Just a thought - not committed either way.

Just a quick one – I’m on my way out for the day. Hope you’re both OK in the snow.

Renee: good luck in the gym: have fun!
Ang – I really like your goals. I think they’re nice and specific, and they’re very directed towards changes in your daily/weekly routines which I think it’s very good. I’ve been thinking of making some cooking goals too: trying out new recipes once a week or something. I also like that your goals aren’t extreme, but just small changes. Wish you the best of luck!
And – heh – I like the one about letting your bf pick you up! :D

I’ve never done a pull-up either! Never ever in my life! But I’m confident that 2005 will be the year I do my first one!

And Ang: I think a new thread for 2005 is a good idea too. Go for it!

Have a nice day everybody, I’ll write more later – or tomorrow. I’m off meeting friends for the day! :D

Hope you guys aren’t snowed in or anything… ;)

I’m having an off day – not feeling very good, I don’t know what’s wrong – just feeling a bit blue I think.
I went to the gym this morning and did back and abs. I’m also still sore from my biceps curls yesterday. Then I went to meet with the psychologist who’s going to be my supervisor this spring, and that went well too, I think. The whole thing (practice, doing therapy, doing psychological work with *real* people) is scary as ****, but my philosophy this semester is to throw myself into it as much as possible. Learn as much as possible. We'll see how smart that will be... :lol:

Not much is happening here. I overate on roasted in-shell peanuts last night: it’s been forever since I ate that, and it was very good – even if I felt a bit stuffed after.
Maybe I’m just bored. Anyway – hope you guys are OK. Have a good Friday!

I'm sorry I was away. I did get snowed in on Thursday and then Friday at work I was so busy trying to get caught up. I should have brought work home on Wednesday but wasn't thinking. I'll try to get on again later but wanted to check in.

mette - I'm sorry you weren't having a good day yesterday. It sounds like things went well in the morning. What felt 'off'? Did you feel sick or was it emotional/mental? Do you feel better today?

I started our new thread. I have included this url and hope it works. See you there!

http://www.3fatchicks.com/forum/show...275#post747275