January 10th, 2012
motivational quote of the day
" Do not think how hard is it. Just think that you will do
it, no matter how."
Written in 2012 by Peter Diaz --- El Salvador
yes!! : )
thank you!
About This Group
ALL ARE WELCOME!!We are here to support and cheer without judgement. \"There\'s going to be days that you\'re tired, that you\'re hungry, that your sore, but you have to pick it up and keep going because that\'s what separates you from your old [FAT] self and the new [THINNER] self is being able to not make the excuse and just do it.\"
January 10th, 2012
New to the Group
Hello. I have been a member of the site for a while and have gone back and forth with my weight. At one point I lost about 40 pounds only to gain it back again because of my poor eating habits. Now I am starting over trying to lose the same 40 pounds plus more. The hardest part is that I am not a fan of being in the kitchen so it is hard for me to prepare a healthy meal. If anyone has ideas of quick simple meals and snacks I would be happy if you are willing to share. I love vegetables and would especially like some preparation ideas for veggies.
well cut up some veggies like carrots, celery and some fruits like apples and make little portions of them for different snacks and eat them with 1 or 2 TP of peanut butter, nutella or low fat ranch. Buy some granola bars or other snack bars, maybe even pudding or jello cups that are low cal. Yogurt is also a great snack or even you can eat some almonds or other nuts. sugar free popsicles or frozen yogurt is also good. Those are just some snacks that I use and lately I have made it a goal to eat a serving of peanut butter daily because when you eat it for a snack it keeps u full long and curps your appetite A LOT due to the protein!!!
One of my back-up meals for lunch or dinner (especially on the weekends) is rice and veggies. I know the rice has a lot of carbs in it but you can eat a smaller portion. So basically, I cook a little rice in a bowl in the microwave, add some veggies for a minute or two (frozen stir fry mixes are good), and top it with a bit of Newman's Own Lighten Up Sesame Ginger dressing.
Also, I spend a few hours each Saturday or Sunday cooking up some things that I can freeze and eat. You have to commit to a few hours of cooking, but I do it once a week for the entire week! I think it's a good pay off. My favorite so far is a breakfast burrito to which I added a bunch of spinach, arugala, peppers, mushrooms, and other veggies. It's a high calorie meal (say 300 plus each burrito) but really fills me up. And what I've noticed is that I can eat half of one and feel very satisfied. Oh! And I left out the cheese and sometimes will top it with a bit of cottage cheese.
If you want what I consider a WEALTH of recipes, consider www.EatingWell.com. I went through and found just five recipes that were lower calorie, easier to make, and could be frozen and warmed up in a microwave. I usually added a bunch more veggies and doubled the recipe and I've got delicious meals that are quick to heat up.
And finally, along with peanut butter, a hard boiled egg can really help curb your appetite because of the protein. These you can make on Sunday and eat all week long. I like mine with lemon pepper. Yum!
Oh, and I've learned that when I start to slow down at 2 or 3 in the afternoon, there's nothing like an orange or a clementine to really wake me up! Just the smell gets me energized. It's such an easy snack -- I'm looking at mine right now!
Hi Shoelace, Welcome to the group.
I love to cook but my problems is that I never have time during the week to make a good meal. My solution is to make a big pot of soup or stew on the weekend. Or cook enough chicken breast or tenders and maybe a pot of rice or pasta so that I can use them in different ways during the week.
If I make the soup/stew, I will transfer the finished product into 1 cup plastic containers and put them in the fridge so they are easy to grab in the morning as I get ready for work. If I do the chicken breasts, I will cut them up into aprox. 3 - 4 oz. portions and put them into a plastic bag.
When I'm getting ready for work, I will grab a peice of chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces, add some cut up zuchinni, celery, peppers or other veggies and put it all into my 1 1/2 cup bowl along with what ever type of carb I have available (pasta, rice, etc..) The reason I use such a large bowl is that the zuchinni will take up a lot of space until it gets nuked.
If you have a crock pot, you can always do a stew or soup while you are at work & it will be ready when you get home.
Good luck !
Thanks everyone for the great ideas. I didn't even think of rice, burritos or zuchini. My current meals are very uninspired. I am definitely going to give all of these ideas a try.
January 9th, 2012
Motivating!
It is so motivating to watch my calories go in and go out - the visual image is inspiring and keeps me motivated all day long to workout after work!!
i couldn't agree more!!
January 9th, 2012
A Thought for the Day --
The big
secret in life is that there is no big secret. Whatever your goal, you can get there if
you're willing to work.
~ Oprah Winfrey
thank you for this, and the cheerleading! :)
: ) true!!!
January 9th, 2012
Down day
Having a down day because I did something I NEVER do and measured myself this morning. Of course, nothing has changed since last Wednesday and I'm frustrated that I've been pretty darn good about my calories. That said, I went for a hike on Saturday and it turns out that exercise really burns a lot of calories! J/K If I don't have a headache tonight after work, I'm going to get my exercise DVD out and give it a whirl.
Rosemary, you are doing just fine. Remember, working out helps jumpstart your metabolism as well as replacing the fat with muscle. It takes a while before you start to see the loss of inches. Keep up the good work and don't get discouraged, you will feel the difference before you see it.
Thanks, Etsme. I know I just need to stay focused and continue to watch my calories. And I also know that I need to start exercising. Now that I have the food mostly under control, I need to work on physical activity, for sure! Thanks again for your encouragement.
hang in there!!
we all understand but keep at it!! you will get there!
Thanks ladies! Feeling much better today -- hope to actually exercise tonight. Of course, I have to go to the store first so we'll see. If not tonight, tomorrow morning first thing!
January 9th, 2012
A new day!
Well, today I managed to work out! yes! Also, started off eating right. Skim milk and a protein shake. (I highly reccomment Elite Gourmet Chocolate Peanut Butter its like a healthy dessert :) Now I have to not ruin the rest of the day. I have a bad tendency to ruin everything during dinner. NOT TODAY!!
yayyy! wtg! keep it up. you can do it.
Good for you Eliza_Rae. When you get to the dinner table, just remember portion control. It might help to drink a glass of water before you sitdown to the table, that way you might just fill up quicker ;-)
Thanks for the support you guys! Totally did it today too! The hubby brought home pizza, and I only had two pieces! End of the day and I have 127 calories left!! Now I just have to do it again! And again, and again.
Its fun to realize that I can still eat things I enjoy, and stay within my 1500 calorie goal. I had pizza, dr. pepper, an omlet for lunch with bacon.... I can totally do this. Feelin so motivated.
Also, I'm so glad to have found groups! It nice to be able to share my accomplishments/receive motivation from other people. So thanks all for helping me out!!
yes, you can! finally sticking to my calorie goal, too. we can do it together!
woohoo u can do it!!
January 8th, 2012
Challenge Stats
My hubby is leaving town for a week... so this weekend was a little busy. I will post stats tomorrow evening :)
I was on vacation two weeks ago and this week I was down with a stomach virus and in and out of the hospital. I have not sent you my info as I do not have it. I will update this week and take it from there :)
Thank you for your help, it is always appreciated.
Hope you are feeling better Freyja!!
Getting better day by day Etsme, one day at a time is all I can do right now. Soon enough I will be back at it all. Finally able to eat solid food, so that is a plus right there. Taking it easy as the doctor ordered and no working out until next week at least she said. So I will take advantage of the down time.
January 8th, 2012
finally sticking to calorie goal...
2 days and counting...need to keep at it...drink more water...
Good job!! Keep it up!
Go, Go, Go!!! You can do it!!!!
thank you so much! positive energy back at you both!
great job!! keep it up!!
thank you - sending positive energy your way!!
January 8th, 2012
gaining and gaining.
i have had a really bad time w/eating and moving. keep getting sick and just sitting around. i have put on so much wt. clothes are too tight and i feel so uncomfortable. today i am starting to eat right again. thursday i will send in my stats for the challenge.
Good luck! I know it's the worst feeling when that shirt you love is suddenly too tight/too short. :P
Also, I'm new to this group... Who do we send our stats too? How does that work?
hi eliza rae, and welcome.
u can send ur stats to hipmamac or post them here.
good luck! don't be too hard on yourself...we can all do it, one day at a time!
thanks everyone and yes it is one day at a time or one meal at a time.
I know that feeling Deb! Sometimes it's hard to get motivated but you will feel sooo much better when you get back in control. Keep you head up and just keep putting one foot in front of the other.
I know you can do it!
I have a pile of clothes that I can't wear due to just a 5 pound gain so I understand but some days I live by one meal at a time!
i really haven't felt motivated for awhile. had pneumonia for 6 wks and sinus infections before that and surgery after that. still not that motivated but am getting there. thanks for all ur help.
you know when you don't feel motivated sometimes you just have to do it. Like brushing your teeth just tell yourself you have to do it and then after a while it will just click and you will start doing it because you want to and its a habit!
i think being sick has had a lot to do w/it. tomorrow going to the nose dr's office to see if i have an infections again.
next life my orders are : healthy body and nose! fast metabolism so i can eat what i like and great muscle tone. not too much to ask for is it?
oh i went to the dentist yesterday for a scaling and she said she didn't know why the dr wanted me to have one. teeth looked fine. YAY
went to pain clinic today and had 11 trigger point injections and have an appt for radial blocking for my back and maybe my neck.
a lot have problems but i will get back to eating right and at least move around more. today wasn't the best but i will do better tomorrow.
January 7th, 2012
Beginning of Beginnings
So I've been on Livestrong for roughly six months, and have kept off FIVE lbs. And that
makes me freaking happy!
I'm determined to do better, and lose the 20 lbs I need to, to be healthy.
Last night I did some beginner yoga, and I realized... It's hard when you're fat! All my
rolls just get in the way! But I shall press on! Rolls and cellulite and everything.
Really started this morning wrong though. Ate half of my Calories for the day at 5:30 am.
DANG IT! No more peanutbutter today.
Yay for keeping five pounds off!! Even if you have ate half of your calories, don't just say the heck with the rest of the day just start over for your next meal and maybe workout a little bit harder today!! Yoga is hard period but if you keep with it it will get easier !! take care!! Have a great Saturday!
Totally blew yesterday... freaking cupcakes! I did so well until those sweet delicious morsels got the better of me! Anyway doing great today, Half way through the day and still have half my calories left! Excellent!
Tilapia for dinner, yoga for dessert!
Thanks for the support bethy87!
lets be honest its OK TO EAT CUPCAKES!!! its all about portion control so if you want to eat a cupcake EVERYDAY then just make sure you have the calories and if you don't then work them off! This is about a lifestyle change and you cant go forever with the things you enjoy so just limit them and it will all work out!
January 5th, 2012
Please send your challenge stats in!
People have been busy over the holidays(missing some stats the last couple of
weeks)...let's get back on the wagon and make a fresh start to this New Year!
Carolyn
Sounds like a good plan!! I believe I sent you my stats but if not, here are my stats as of this morning:
Current weight: 237 lbs
Exercise: 4/4 days.
Thank again for keeping the stats!!
I'm not sure what stats you're tracking Just weight and exercise?
January 1st, 2012
2012
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!!! WOOHOO 2012!!!! This is the year we take our bodies back and we work hard for the results we want!!! Have a great Day and start to the year!!!
December 30th, 2011
Turning Point
This past few days I have come to a realization. I have been on livestrong now for over a year but my weight hasn't changed much, actually I have gained and lost the same 10+ pounds. I knew when I started my journey it was going to be a lifestyle change and it would take a LONG time and dedication. Anyways what I figured out is that I love food! I love the taste of it and the look of it and honestly I like to workout but sometimes I don't even them both out. I don't want to stop eating the "good stuff" but I just want to limit it and in my lifestyle if I still indulge moderately in junk it will take me a lot longer to loose weight but heres the thing, even if it takes me five months to lose five pounds its OK because I am changing my life one day at a time and slowly but surely loosing the weight. I have learned that if I don't do it this way I will just quit and gain all the weight I lost back plus some so I would rather take a few years of my life to lose the weight I need slowly then take the rest of my life unhappy and restricting myself! Anyways I hope you all have a great weekend and if the weight is coming off slowly don't worry about it because you are still less than when u started and one more day closer to your goals!!!!!!!!!
I am in the same boat...I lost 35 pounds in about 6 months and for 1 year have kept it down to within 5lbs of that (now it is almost 10lbs gained back). It is slowly creeping up ( I gained a few pounds in the last 2 weeks) so now I have to lose that 10lbs again and would like to lose even more. I too love food...but the snacks over the holidays and some inactivity have played their part. Time to get back on it and slowly take it off! HAPPY NEW YEARS!
Happy New Year to you also!
i am in that boat too. so here's to the new year and the life style changes we need and are going to do!
cheers to that deb!!
December 30th, 2011
Need support
I have been on a weight roller coaster. After reaching my goal weight back in February I have been on a steady climb. I have been having issues with my knee and couldn't exercise like I am used to. My eating habits have not really changed, but I have gained 30#. I think I might have some thyroid issues so I have made a dr appt, but am back to tracking my foods just to make sure I am staying on track here. The pain in my knee is at a manageable level now, so I am starting to exercise again, but at a much lower intensity level that I am used to. Just need to know I am not alone out there. Thanks!
well you are definitely not the only one and you have come to the right place to have support! This is such a great group and its just nice to be able to have others around you who are going through the same thing!!
Just don't give up and stay positive! I have lost 25-50 lbs and gained them all back TWICE in the past 4 years. Now I'm trying to lose them one more time, hopefully for the last time.
You're doing right by tracking your food and working out again. In my experience, to always have the goal of maintaining weigth (not losing weight) is awesome. Give yourselft a cheer next you step on the scale and haven't gained.
Good luck!!
December 28th, 2011
Holiday challenge Stats
Holiday Challenge
Weekly Stats
(December 22nd
Weigh-in)
Name: SlimmerPat
SW: 128.5
SW: 128.5
LW:
128.5
CW:
:
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
Name: Rgroga
SW: 179
LW:
179
CW:
:
GW: 130 Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
GW: 130 Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
Name: Bethy87
SW: 176
SW: 176
LW:
177
CW:
175
: -2.0
GW: 170
Water :300/336 oz week
Exercise1/3 days a week
GW: 170
Water :300/336 oz week
Exercise1/3 days a week
Name: Jameslynn
SW: 197
SW: 197
LW:
197
CW:
195.5
: -1.5
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
Name:
Etsme
SW:
244.6
LW:
242.6
CW:
241.4
: -1.2
GW:
Water:
Exercise: 3/4 days per week
GW:
Water:
Exercise: 3/4 days per week
Name:
Freyja5683
SW:
161
LW:
161
CW:
161
:
same
GW: 155
Water: 320/448 oz per week
Exercise: 3/6 days per week
Water: 320/448 oz per week
Exercise: 3/6 days per week
Name: Dietingdeb
SW: 161
SW: 161
LW:
161
CW:
same
:
GW: 155
GW: 155
Name:
Hipmamac
SW:
146.5
LW:
145.5
CW: 148.5
: +3.0
GW: 140.0
Exercise: 1/3 days per week
GW: 140.0
Exercise: 1/3 days per week
Name: Skinnursemandee
SW:
200
LW:
200
CW:
195
: -5.0
GW: 185
GW: 185
Top Stars of the
week:
Bethy87 -2.0 lbs!!
Etsme -1.5 lbs!!
Congratulations
everyone!
If your name is shaded, I have not
received a message with your info this week. Please send it and I can adjust for this
week. Remember to send me your stats on Thursdays!
Carolyn
congrats - thanks for the inspiration!
Great job everyone!!
Well Done Everyone! Keep up the good work :-)
December 27th, 2011
back on wagon!
fell off wagon, but back on! didn't always make calorie count over Christmas, but tracking cals helped keep it lower than it would have been.
great job for getting back on!! I
thank you, and happy new year!
Sometimes the hardest part is getting back on, so cudos to you!! Keep moving forward :-)
December 27th, 2011
Gluten Free
I wanted to post this to the group because it has had such an impact on my health the past
several months.
Over the years I felt that I might have a wheat sensitivity but never did anything about
it. A couple months ago I decided to start doing some test and sure enough I really was
having reactions to wheat. As a result I changed my diet to be gluten free and can't
begin to tell you the difference it has made. The bottom line is that I haven't had a
migraine since I stopped eating gluten and my joints no longer ache. I have tremendous
energy and my mind is no longer foggy. The big added bonus is that I'm losing weight
consistantly and feel great!!
You can read more in my blog titled "Gluten Free is Living Free"
View my blog on my Livestrong Profile page.
I am happy your health has improved with your lifestyle change. That is a BIG step going gluten free but when it makes you feel better I am sure the sacrifice is worth it!
You are right Bethy, it is worth it! I feel better than I've felt in a LOOOOOONG time!!
December 23rd, 2011
Happy Holidays
I would like to wish everyone here at Cheer
OurSelves On a
Wonderful Holiday Season & a Healthy Happy 2012!
Ethel
December 21st, 2011
scale disclaimer
Love it deb!!
LOL! Too Funny!!
but oh so true, etsme. lol
December 21st, 2011
At a Plateau
I've lost 25 lbs since July 20th, and now I've been at the same weight for a few weeks. It's hard because I was trying to run for a couple minutes while walking when the weather was nice and my Marine husband was by my side in the evenings and it was easy not to eat too much because he is the most disciplined person I know. He's a runner too and I'm someone who has made it all the way through my 20's not really ever exercising (and gaining 65 pounds since I started college.... and finished with it long ago). Now he works second shift (and is gone 1 weekend a month) and no one is watching me eating. Plus it's cold outside and I have to find other forms of exercise. Did 50 min's of pilates yesterday and at least am sore, meaning it did work me. I am at the lowest weight I have been at in about 5.5 years, so now I've gotta stop with the excuses it's easy to give myself and keep going. I'm looking for a motivating group. SW: 185 CW: 160 GW: 125 Merry Christmas by the way, everyone! I don't believe in deprivation but hopefully I can keep in mind that I only need a little bit of some things as far as the big holiday meals....
December 19th, 2011
Weekly Stats for Holiday Challenge
Holiday Challenge
Weekly Stats
(December 15th
Weigh-in)
Name: SlimmerPat
SW: 128.5
SW: 128.5
LW:
128.5
CW:
:
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
Name: Rgroga
SW: 179
LW:
179
CW:
:
GW: 130 Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
GW: 130 Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
Name: Bethy87
SW: 176
SW: 176
LW:
176
CW:
177
: +1.0
GW: 170
Water :148/336 oz week
Exercise:0/3 days a week
GW: 170
Water :148/336 oz week
Exercise:0/3 days a week
Name:
Jameslynn
SW: 197
SW: 197
LW:
197
CW:
195.5
: -1.5
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
Name:
Etsme
SW:
244.6
LW:
244.6
CW:
242.6
: -2.0
GW:
Water: 672 oz per week
Exercise: 4 days per week
GW:
Water: 672 oz per week
Exercise: 4 days per week
Name:
Freyja5683
SW:
161
LW:
161
CW:
161
:
same
GW: 155
Water: 208/448 oz per week
Exercise: 3/6 days per week
Water: 208/448 oz per week
Exercise: 3/6 days per week
Name: Dietingdeb
SW: 161
SW: 161
LW:
161
CW:
same
:
GW: 155
GW: 155
Name:
Hipmamac
SW:
146.5
LW:
146.5
CW: 145.5
: -1.0
GW: 140.0
Exercise: 1/3 days per week
GW: 140.0
Exercise: 1/3 days per week
Name:
Skinnursemandee
SW:
200
LW:
200
CW:
195
: -5.0
GW: 185
GW: 185
Top 3 Stars of the
week:
Skinnursemandee -5.0
lbs!!
Etsme -2.0 lbs!!
Jameslynn -1.5 lbs!!
Congratulations
everyone!
If your name is shaded, I have not
received a message with your info this week. Please send it and I can adjust for this
week. Remember to send me your stats on Thursdays! I will try and post more
frequently. It has been a busy couple of weeks...and now I am off for Christmas
break!! 2 weeks of relaxation J
Carolyn
Great job everyone!
Carolyn, Thanks for you hard work :-)
fantastic everyone, Keep it up!!
looking good!
December 18th, 2011
late night walk
I had to laugh at myself, and actually I'm impressed with myself. Tonight was family birthdays celebration, and of course lots of sweets and pizza!! ugh! I hadn't eaten much for the day knowing this was coming, but I also hadn't exercised for the day either. So tonight when I returned home and tracked all my food for the day, I was over in calories, not suprising!! I blame my need for 3!!! pieces of pizza. ha! Anyways, it was late and I was discouraged, but somehow my motivation moved my butt to put on my walking shoes and go for a late night walk!! And guess what?? I feel good!! Sorry now I'm bragging, but I was just so excited I actually did it!!
Fantastic!!!
Sometimes a little exercise can be rewarding ;-) Keep up the good work!
Awesome job! I was going to go to the gym today...however I think the snow shovelling I have to do will be my work out today :) I have been so tired lately, then I don't have energy to work out...it's a visious cycle. I know if I get back at it I will feel better and have more energy *sigh*
ahhh!! I'm jealous!! I love shovelling snow, yeha it's true. It is an awesome workout though. And I'm just jealous you have snow to shovel, I live in MN and it's been on average in the 40's!! ugh. Was soo wishing for a white christmas.
December 17th, 2011
Metabolism boost... and a question
After 7 full days of religiously counting calories and meeting my goals, tonight was my
"reward" dinner, at an indian buffet. I didn't go overboard, far from it, but I did eat a
lot more than I had been for dinner... I'm secretely hoping this will boost my metabolism
and work for me! Haha don't think so but hey, I can always dream...
On a different topic, I think just weighing myself is pretty darn depressing considering
how slowly the numbers are moving, so I'm thinking of starting to measure up, too. Here
are my questions: how do I take measures? Where do I measure? How often?
Thanks!
yeah, I get obsessive with weighing myself and really depressed and discouraged too. I'm only allowed to jump on the scale once a week, wednesday. And then I hide it away under my dresser...I'm a big believer in 'out of sight out of mind.'
As for measuring yourself, that is an excellent idea and a great way to pay attention to changes in you body that don't appear on the scale, and hey the whole point in losing weight is wanting our bodies to shrink, so it makes sense. ah, yeah, anyways, hips, waist and bust! boohyeah, "36, 24, 36" ha! violent femmes.
SOO, back to topic, when measuring your hips, measure the widest part there, yep just below the belly button. For your waist do the narrowest part, yes right there above your belly button. Perfect! And for the bust, try to hold your arms out to the side, and measure around the whole bust, right about at the nipple line. I usually look like I'm doing the chicken dance, or flapping my wings. Which I totally have, I hate the cursed tricep flab!! Blah. I usually try not to measure myself more than once a month, or every two weeks if you must. We got to give our bodies time to change:) Oh yeah, one more thing, keep the measuring tape, or string loose, no cutting into the skin. We don't want false results that'll just slow our progress in the long run. Anyways, ciao!!
Hey! Thanks for the fun how-to! That's great. I'll start as soon as I get myself a tape measurer! I think I might add a "bum" measure too, around the ol' rump, because I sure wouldn't mind if that started to shrink.
Thanks again!
December 15th, 2011
Stats for Challenge
Please remember to send me your current weight today or tomorrow am (and other stats).
Thanks!
December 14th, 2011
I need a little motivation!!!
Im 18 years old, female, 5' 7", and 200 pounds! I making a change in my life because I
beleive my weight is keeping me from doing alot of things I would love to do. My goal
weight is 150 pound and Im just looking for little motivation to stick with the diet im
starting and the new exercise plan Im implementing. Thanks!
Well, this is a fantastic first step! Once you start eating better and moving more you'll find that you'll feel so much better, it won't be as hard as you think to keep it up!
Go team!
Welcome! You've come to the right place to get some motivation. I know for me it was a matter of looking into a full length mirror to see what everyone else was seeing to get myself motivated. Now, when I start to get lazy, I just go back to that vision and before I know it I'm on that bike!!
A lot of times it's easier if you get a buddy to workout & diet with. With a partner you make yourself accountable & you can call each other on your "stuff". Good luck with you effort and keep us apprised of your results!!
December 14th, 2011
New puppy, his name is Zeus
Hoping that Zeus will get me walking more on top of my work outs and then I can lose a bit
more than I have been.
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That is a supremely adorable puppy! So lucky!
I agree, thank you. The guys were supposed to pick him up tomorrow night but instead they are getting him tonight.
omg he is soooo cute!!
Such a sweet puppy!
yes!! he's awesome!! dogs are such great exercising buddies!! I miss mine:)
We just had to put down our 12 year old boxer Max as he was old and in lots of pain. This is the new addition, I can't wait for summer, it will be bring it time with me and the dog.
December 14th, 2011
SO discouraged
I'm not sure if I'm allowed to post something that's not positive on here... Apologies if
I can't... But I'd like your advice.
I'm just starting out, been counting calories for over a week or so. Right off the bat I
lost a pound or two (literally - in the first two days), and since then I've been at the
exact same weight, even though my eating habits have *drastically* changed (I've always
been active, so not much change there).
I realize how this sounds - like I'm a big whining baby. But I've lost weight before, and
it was definitely a continuous progression, and I was able to lose the most right at the
start. And it would move a least a little on a fairly regular basis until I hit a plateau
way down the road.
I'm concerned that it won't budge no matter what I do. I also have hypothyroidism, which
is supposedly "controlled" (long story here), but I'm sick of blaming my weight on that,
and I really thought if I took control it would change.
Has anyone else experienced a slow start? This is SO frustrating... And please don't tell
me not to weigh every day, I tried, and I can't.
Well I have experienced the same thing, it has been a slow and steady battle for me. I am trying to change my eating but that is not the easiest, I have been at this since last year and I have been gaining and losing the same couple of lbs each and every week. Something has gotta give and I guess that it will I am pushing harder now and trying to change what I eat as I know I need to but I am super picky so that is not helping but I am getting there. It is all about changing things up, try doing a different workout each day and see if that helps. Such as if you normally do the elliptical for the next couple of days use a treadmill one day and a stationary bike the next. Sometimes that is all it takes. Don't get discouraged and your weight will go up and down naturally, just keep at it. You could also try adding another 200 calories to your goal for a couple of days and then go back down it might just kick your metabolism back into where it will cause you to lose.
Hope this helps at least some, it's how I have managed to lose...
Thanks for sharing your experience and your advice. I really like your idea of mixing up my workout because I mostly bike. Maybe I should start running, too. Tonight I'm having a bit of a bigger dinner, we'll see what happens (on most days I land under my calorie goal by quite a bit).
Thanks again, I really appreciate it...
Being under the calorie goal by a lot could be the issue. Switch it up and see what happens, you might be suprised. Variety is the spice of life, and it just might be what the doctor ordered :). Good luck, keep us informed of how it is going and never worry about being a bit down and posting. It's those times that we all need someone to cheer us on and push us a bit harder.
i agree w/freyja.
don't get discouraged. you will do fine.
Thanks, deb. I'm trying really hard to not get discouraged. I haven't quit yet, which is better than a number of previous times when the scale didn't budge for a couple of days. :)
hope you are feeling better - hang in there! you are great the way you are. don't be too hard on yourself. we'll all keep plugging together, and get there one way or another!
December 14th, 2011
motivational quote of the day
" Every venture starts with the first step or even an idea
that we act on. Without efforts, there is no success or should I say a chance of
success. It is better to have tried and failed than to sit back without a chance of ever
succeeding."
Written in 2011 by Allen N. --- Singapore
very good quote. very true to my life!! Thanks freyja!! how have you been doing lately?
I've been doing good, battled a couple of setbacks with being sick and stuff, but feeling better and starting to kick some but yet again. Hope all is well with you too.
December 13th, 2011
tuesday already?
The whole family has been under the weather this past week so that means eating good just went out the window but anyways I am back today and feeling better and hoping to make it to the gym tonight if my husband doesn't work late! Anyways everyone have a wonderful day!!!
Great job for getting back on track!
I've been there several times as of late and the house is finally getting past all of this now, or at least I hope so. I need to get back to doing what I need to for me.
December 13th, 2011
motivational quote of the day
" In the journey to success, there exist ups and down and
also the fear of failing. Though they exist, people are still successful. Hence, what
matters most is how we respond to these challenges when they come our way."
Author Unknown --- Submitted by Greg Odion --- Nigeria
Thanks!!
perfect timing - thank you!
yes, this is a good reminder!!
December 12th, 2011
workout energy
Tonight after work I rocked the water aerobics!! I love to swim, its fun and relaxing and nice to switch up the routine machine workouts every now and then. It feels good to have that little burst of energy post workout. I got a little off track last week so yeha! dragging myself back on track today, gotta love mondays!
It's a new week! Well done with the activity and for feeling good afterwards! That's the part I always forget about exercising... :)
December 10th, 2011
New and eager, hopefully it lasts this time
Hi everyone!
New to livestrong, but not knew to trying to lose weight. :) I have been struggling with
hypothyroidism for a few years but now it's time to make the 30-something pounds go away,
no more excuses...
Hoping that by surrounding myself with people who are going through the same thing I'll be
inspired by all of you and do better!
Hi Sprocket!
I too have hypothyroidism and have struggled on and off with my weight. This group is fantastic. Join in on the Biggest Loser challenge that just started. It helps keep you motivated!!
Hi! Thanks for making me feel welcome. Hypothyroidism sure is a pain, huh?
How do I join the Biggest Loser challenge?
Thyroid sucks! But we can muddle through it.
The challege...scroll down a big and email your stats to Hip!
December 10th, 2011
i think i can i think i can
exercised today for first time in too long...now just need to commit to sticking to calories, too!
You totally can!
WE can. :)
you are totally, right! thanks so much for the inspiration. my bigger challenge is exercising. i have never ever done it regularly. so i might be gentler on myself when it comes to calories this week - anything to get my butt moving!
but once i get in a groove - no more excuses for real!
It's so hard to find time to exercise, I know. But we are worth spending that time on ourselves!
For me what really did the trick was finding something I looove to do, even if it's painful. I'm not a gym person but hand me a bike and I'll go for ever! Plus when I'm mountain biking the fear of dying makes my heart rate skyrocket, so I'm *sure* I'm burning extra calories... :)
One day at a time!
lol...thanks so much for your wise words! i made my calorie goal today - you were right, we CAN do it! :) hope you had a great day!
Sweet deal on meeting your calorie goal! I met mine too yesterday so we can be goal-twins. lol
I hope we both meet it again today! :)
December 9th, 2011
Quote of the Day
Don’t limit yourself. Many people limit themselves to
what they think they can do. You can go as far as you mind lets you. What you believe,
you can achieve.
~ Mary Kay Ash
December 8th, 2011
Starting Stats for the Holiday Challenge (Dec 1st to Feb 9th)
Here is what I have so far, if you would like to still join, please send me a message
by Sunday! For all those in the previous Challenge, I had to deal with a very ill
daughter last night, so I will post the final results as soon as I am able. My
sincerest apologies (sometimes life just gets a little hectic)
Name: SlimmerPat
SW: 128.5
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
SW: 128.5
GW: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
Name: Rgroga
SW: 179 pounds
GW: 130 pounds
Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
Name: Bethy87
SW:176
GW: 170
Water :336 oz week
Exercise:3 days a week
SW:176
GW: 170
Water :336 oz week
Exercise:3 days a week
Name: Jamielynn
SW: 197
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
SW: 197
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 days/wk
Name: Etsme
SW:244.6
GW:
Water: 672 oz week
Exercise: 4 days/wk
Name: Freyja5683
SW: 161
GW: 155
Water:448 oz week
Exercise: 6 days/wk
Name: Hipmamac
SW: 146.5
GW: 138
Exercise: 3 days/wk
Name: Dietingdeb
SW: 161
GW: 155
I Hope both you and your daughter are feeling better.
Thanks for running this challenge!!
Oh, and set my goal weight for this challenge to 235 lbs. I won't bother tracking the water, I know I will drink enough since I keep refilling my glass of ice water all day long ;-)
so do we post our stats then thursdays here? or send them to you personally and you do the posting?
If you could send me a personal message that would be great! I will compile and post results weekly :)
CRAP I almost missed it!!! Yikes..... Someone needs to remind me about this! Who is on my FB page???/
Man this is a busy couple of weeks! Just got back from an out of town hockey tournament...posting soon :)
Carolyn
Man this is a busy couple of weeks! Just got back from an out of town hockey tournament...posting soon :)
Carolyn
December 7th, 2011
Holiday Challenge :)
Sorry. I will post starting stats sheet tonight :) ASAP! All of you can send me your
current stats for this week tomorrow (Thursday Dec 8th) I have you included from you last
Challenge ETSME!! I was down with the flu on the weekend and just now finding time to
catch up :)
Carolyn
December 7th, 2011
Sorry!
I was down with the flu all weekend and now trying to play catch up! I will post results
for the Challengethis evening.
Carolyn
December 7th, 2011
Quote of the Day
Every time you are tempted to react in the same old
way, ask if you want to be a prisoner of the past or a
pioneer of the future.
~ Deepak Chopra
December 6th, 2011
working it!
yeah, I'm excited because despite the fact I was burnt out at the end of the night, I still dragged my butt over the the gym and got in 30 min of cardio after work:) And yesterday I did an hour of water aerobics! Woot! I usually do pretty well the first part of the week, its the second part of the week I start to get distracted from getting to the gym, so lets hope the tred continues. Anyway, I just wanted to tell myself, and apparently you all, that I am proud of myself!! We need to remember and relish these moments, its so easy to get discouraged when we fall off track, or simply slip up. Everyday, and for some every hour, we stay focused on our goals is a success. so, ha!! in your face evil diet whoa's!! hopefully this momentary enthusiasm and motivation will last and I will not succumb to the evil diet whoa's
oh thats so GREAT to hear!! keep up the good work and dont give up :-)
Yes!! Great Job :-))
woo-hoo - thanks for the inspiration!
December 6th, 2011
Quote of the Day
You must have long term goals to
keep you from being frustrated by short term failures.
~ Charles C. Noble
December 5th, 2011
Quote Of The Day
All good things are difficult to achieve; and bad things are
very easy to get.
~ Morarji Desai
The surest way not to fail is to determine to succeed.
~ Richard B. Sheridan
December 5th, 2011
too much weight lost???
i decided to weigh myself every monday - last week (monday) i was 179 lbs and this monday i am 174 lbs.. I got a bit worried when i saw this because its soo much to loose in a weeks time and thought i might be loosing muscle instead of fat.. Does this happen to you? or is it normal in the beginning?
A big drop in the beginning isn't necessarly unusual. I wouldn't worry about it. If you continue to lose weight at this rate I'd look at your calorie intake. It might be too low.
if ur intake isn't too low, it may be water wt. also it could be as etsme said, sometimes at first u can lose more.
Well actually i didnt change my water intake.. Im still drinking the same amount of water as i always did (which is little) So maybe i'll start to drink more water and see if that works. Thanks Alot! guys! :-)
December 4th, 2011
surgery was for..
my surgery i had was for carpal tunnell and a nerve on my arm just above the wrist. it is still pretty sore. i also gained a lot of wt in a wk! my daughter thinks maybe its from the meds. it is the highest in yrs. maybe it is partly meds but i know i haven't been eating right. very discouraging. but i won't give up. i also am going thru some other medical stuff that i am seeing a speicalist for in a few wks. ok writs it hurting too much to type now. gonna go.
Yes, the meds will cause you to retain water. I know from experience. Thank goodness 2011 was a healthy year for me... no surgeries. Now 2010, that was another story. I'm looking forward to continuing the healthy life in 2012. I'll keep you in my prayers. You'll recover quickly from this and the other medical stuff, too. You'll be pleased at how quickly the weight comes off when you are done with the meds as long as you don't go too far off your diet.
thanks, pat. i haven't been doing well on my diet but i have gone down a few lbs w/o trying so maybe it is a combo of meds and diet. hopefully thurs i am down a lot more.
my hand and wrist are doing pretty good. keep forgetting about it and grabbing things... yup i get reminded real quick! can't wait for the stitches to come out.
December 3rd, 2011
Depressed....... <
I wasnt going too bad until this afternoon when i indulged in to a BIG plate of oily foods :( :( i felt so bad and full when i finished...... I just NEEDED some saltiness or something really tasty - anyways yeserday i had a piece of fatty cake and the day before i had about 8 pringles :O ... ?? (well atleast i counted them lol) other then that i have been eating healthy i just need to satisfy myself with HEALTHY tasty stuff ... but also today i didnt eat a proper lunch (and thats what spoilt my day ) ..
Also i eat ALOT on sundays sooooo im worried about tomorrow
Have you looked at other activities that would help improve your mood? Also, take time to savor the flavor. Close your eyes and chew slowly. Once you satisfy the craving for something salty or sweet, you might find that you are no longer hungry. Then, if you keep eating, you'll have to ask yourself what is your motivation. I had to convince my skinny husband to keep potato chips out of the house. I just like them too much! Do you have a lot of unhealthy foods in your home? You may have to do what I did and banish them.
Well not alot but sometimes if someone of the family buys junk food from outside and might offer me some ( most of the time i'll say no BUT i do say yes sometimes)
i like to fill myself up with healthy foods so that even if there's something delicious in the house i am more likely to stay away if im full .. also having a good breakfast is VERY important because it made SO much difference when i lately started to have a cup ot oatmeal and 1 banana with 1 cup of skim milk. I dont get hungry until just before lunch ..
Thanks Pat! :-)
December 2nd, 2011
Quote for the Day
There are three types of people in this world: those who
make things happen, those who watch things happen and those who wonder what happened. We
all have a choice. You can decide which type of person you want to be. I have always
chosen to be in the first group.
~ Mary Kay Ash
Good quote! I really like that one!
December 1st, 2011
Hello to All
Hi I am just joining this group. I need support, I have been on this site for 2 years and have only lost 48 pounds in that 2 years. I still have another 50 to lose. I keep losing my motivation and I get so confused on which diet I am supposed to follow, I need some people to go through this with!
Welcome to the group. I'm new, too. I think joining in the challenges will help us have more motivation. Now that I've written my goals (see below), I will throw myself into meeting them. I don't care much for plain water, but I've been drinking more since recording my intake on My Plate. You may find this motivating, too. Best of luck!
Stomson09, Glad you are joining us!! To say you have Only lost 48 pounds is just not fair to yourself! That is a BIG DEAL!!! It takes a lot to lose that much weight!
One thing I have done to help keep me motivated is to remove the word "Diet" from my vocabulary. Simply think about it as a change in your eating habits, which when you take a close look to any "diet", that is all it is. Eat less, elimanate empty calorie foods from you meals and exercise. Sounds simple doesn't it! Well, it is with help, so hang in there and welcome to our little group!! We are here for you :-)
Welcome Sthomson09!!
This place is very inspiring and as i said before its WAY EASIER to stick to something when you have support, a group and people who are in same condition as you!! Good luck with your extra 50 pounds :)
November 29th, 2011
Fall Challenge week 10
Oops I said there was only 1 week left...there was really two. The last weigh in was to
be December 1st. I only had one message, so I will post last weeks and this week on the
weekend after the Thursday weigh-in! I will start another Challenge with Starting Stats
and goals due December 1st and first officially weigh in the following Thursday. Here is
and example of starting stats:
Name: Jane
Starting weight: 175
Goal weight: 165 (10 lb s)
Water: 600oz per week (optional)
Exercise: 4 days per week.
Hi Hipmamac. Here are my stats for the new challenge.
Name: Pat
Starting Weight: 128.5
Goal weight: 115
Water: 48 oz per day
Exercise: 4 days per week, over 8,000 steps per day
Hi guys! I would love to join in as well :)
Name: Rgroga
Starting weight: 179 pounds
Goal wight: 130 pounds
Water: About 6 glasses a day
Exercise: 4- 5 times per week , 1 hour a day
am i too late to join? I am still gonna post my stats just in case.
You mean goal weight at the end of the challenge right?
name:bethy
SW:176
GW: 170
Water :336 oz week
Exercise:3 days a week
little late to the game, but I'm up for the challenge! Is this typically a 10 wk challenge?
Name: Jamielynn
SW: 197
GW: 180
Water: 64 oz / day
Exercise: 4 day/wk
Sorry. I will post starting stats sheet tonight :) ASAP! All of you can send me your current stats for this week tomorrow (Thursday Dec 8th) I have you included from you last Challenge ETSME!! I was down with the flu on the weekend and just now finding time to catch up :)
Carolyn
November 29th, 2011
tomorrow
hi eveyone. i am having surgery on my wrist and hand tomorrow, i may not be around for a few days or so. know i will not be able to use that hand for typing. :(
Good luck & I wish you a speedy recovery!!!
Is it carpul tunnel? Hope you heal quickly!
November 29th, 2011
.:: 2nd Day ::.
Hi GuyZ...
Today i did my 10 minutes of aerobics (i got wobbly legs though ) - i didnt walk
because i was doing some housework wich tired me out
I consumed 1,280 calories and burn - 88 calories....... My net calorie is 1,192 .. is this
normal or is it too little 
here's what i ate
BreakFast:::: 1 cup of cooked oatmeal
Morning Snack:: half and apple with 2 tsp Peanut butter
Lunch :: 1/2 a boiled potato, 1/2 cup plain non fat yogurt and 1/2 tomato
Afternoon Snack:: 1/4 c walnuts and 10 apricots
Dinner:: 1/2 Chicken breast cooked in 1 tbs of olive oil and 1/2 crushed garlic clove, 1
small pita bread and 3 tsp of plain non fat yogurt
Evening Snack :: 1/2 apple, 1/2 mashed banana and 1/2 skim milk
but ALL of this added up to ONLY 1,280.. Has any of you experianced this 
am i supposed to add more food because all the food i ate today was very filling and i
didnt get hungry
Good luck to u All!
If you aren't feeling hungry, and you are eating 6 times a day, I wouldn't worry so much about a low number of calories. I wouldn't add more food, but I'm not an expert, so I could be wrong. Good luck to you, too.
Thanks Pat for that piece of info!! :-)
November 29th, 2011
Calories In - Calories Out?
If I eat the calories I gain by exercising, won't I just stay the same weight? Do you eat only the original calorie goal? Can you eat a little more when you've had a hard workout? Just some things I'm wondering about. I lost 15 pounds already by exercising everyday at the gym, but that is getting unsustainable. So I've cut back the number of hours I spend at the gym. I put a couple of pounds back on when I dropped to 4 days a week, so I thought tracking my food would be helpful. So far, so good; I've lost a pound in 2 days.
The concept behind exercise and diet is that the exercise helps to increase your matabolism. When you eat less, your matabolism tends to slow down. You can lose weight by just reducing the amount of calories you eat, but exercise is as much a benefit to your health as it is to help you lose weight. The loss of 1 pound in a day could easily be water weight. Ideally, you should weigh yourself only once a week because your weight can fluctuate on any given day depending on the amount of sodium or water consumed.
Use the suggested calorie amount given by the Daily Plate Calorie Goal. Then try to change your eating habits from one large meal 3 times a day to several small meals about every 3-4 hours. If you start feeling hungry before it is time to eat a snack, drink a glass of water, or have some celery or other vegetable handy to snack on. Limit the amount of carrots because they contain a lot of sugar. Try to work out 3-4 times a week and mix up cardio with some weight training and calisthenics to target specific body areas. It won't be long before you start to see some progress :-)
Thanks for the advice and encouragement! 
by Etsme on Jan 10, 2012 at 11:17 am
Excellent! Thanks Freyja :-)