NON WW & WW NEWBIES, OUR NEW LIFE, THE START OF SOMETHING WONDERFUL

JoDavo66

@cbabie sorry things are stressful it doesn't help food focus at all- I caved & had a toasted tea-cake (like a large bread roll made with dried fruit which you toast!) In coffee shop where I met my girls after school- they finish at 4:30pm (library closes) & I was in meeting til 5 then had to drive thro rush hour. I was so tired & hungry I just needed something! Decluttering good for stress- gives me a buzz!!! Yup- lack of sleep doesn't help. Hugs on that.

@theslightedgeforever yellow work out clothes sound cheerful:) my end goal is to buy some posh work out gear from the gym- at the mo I am way too wrinkley & flabby to wear what they sell.

@fleetwitch I'm the same. I did WW between pregnancies & lost well. Joined when youngest was 3 & was almost to goal, for surgery a year later- yo-yo'd with life issues (complications from surgery, broken arm & torn rotator cuff that was missed, more surgery etc) but 4 years ago weight crept up & I struggled to turn it around . Joined gym, got more mobile, got trainer- got more mobile but weight results not great. Left WW for MFP- still struggled but new GP says I need to reduce carbs considerably & up protein by that %. Working on it- with me it's long drawn out perimenopause! Glad to see things are working for you.

@trooworld well done on avoiding temptation (unlike me- avoided at work to sink later). Despite my toasted teacake I have 7 cals left today!
Just don't blame me if you start craving that recipe!!!! 🤣

@mswatson0777 In Sept my plan was 1-2lb a week, track (MFP & a pretty planner) & gym twice a week with some home sessions. Miserable fail. There was too much going on & was not consistent at all. That's why I've reset & broken goals down into baby steps with little changes. Thanks for thinking I' amazing & conscientious- I was ready to give up 4 years ago but a job popped up, literally 11th hour, I got it & I love this school. I've only ever worked in challenging areas (not the worst but certainly not easy), this school has such a supportive structure I can do much more in the lab/classroom. It's been in a transitional phase since before I started & it's great to use my former experience to help improve the school.
The Ju-jitsu sounds fab. I really need to learn some similar exercise.

@TeresaW1020 well done on moderator. I'm totally with you on baby steps. Read somewhere 4 weeks to make a difference, 8 weeks for friends to notice, 12 weeks for rest of world to notice but 1 day to decide to make that change. That's my thought for the month as I am to make changes. I haven't got a single day perfect yet, but apart from Sat, they are moving in the right direction. Habit tracker sounds a good idea if it's working for you.

@its_cleo I'm with you on lack of sleep = hunger, apparently it's the cortisol hormone levels. I've made increasing sleep one of my goals. Will think of you when I'm at dentist! Oh my gosh re:cop encounter! I don't think anywhere is safe. Just after my sis & BiL moved in together they were washing dishes & there was a cop chase across their back garden- said it was like a movie. Where my youngest SiL lives a man was killed- a 14 year old punched him for being asked to be quiet!!! Drug running has an awful lot to answer for. Think positive- you're on track.

I've had a long day, 1 slip up but it was OK with everything else. Made a very quick meal tonight. Tried out new recipe- loved it & very simple. I do like this new recipe planner. Chilling out now. The wind here is really wild & loud tonight.

nighthazel01

Afternoon,

I do so much better during the week. Everyday during the week I go for a brisk 1. 8 mile walk during my luch break. This helps so much, with my weight and mood. I try to exercise more when I get home, but it’s hard. I haven’t lost anything, but I feel I’m on track.

@its_cleo I’m sorry to hear about your cat, as a pet owner I know it’s hard. Walking helps me when I’m feeling down.

theslightedgeforever

@fleetwitch Welcome to the group! Looks like you have found a plan that's working for you. Let us know how we can help if you hit a speed bump.

@trooworld Woohoo on no cafes or vending machines. The old you would have done it. New you is standing strong. You asked me what do I do? I track it anyway before I sit down to eat. So I know how much I can have. If it's lunch, I'll eat the whole thing usually but dinner I have to see how many carbs I have left and then I cut it in half or whatever and take the rest home. What I'm learning not to do is just eat it and go over. In a way, tracking has become a control issue. I know I can make those numbers fit into that box.

@mswatson0777 Yes, I like starting my morning with a book and cup of tea. My mom always had a saying, I like my own coffee pot. Which was her way of saying she liked her routine. Routines are good if they work for you and not against you. The majority of us have had routines that made us fat. Now we are working on routines that make us healthy. I'm glad you enjoy your jiu jitsu.

@teresaw1020 Checking in: This is my AA meeting. Bit of advice, always put yourself first. Sometimes helping others lose weight can take up LOTS of time. I spent more time sitting at my computer making fun things to do to help others in a forum and track their weights and settle disputes and on and on it went and I gained 30 lbs. No lie. It was a gradual back and forth that I really didn't realize it. So leave time for cooking healthy meals and keep up with your exercise. So if you learn anything good, let us know. In my Mini Habits book right now it's talking about why dieting doesn't really work. The science behind it. "The crux of weight loss is whether or not you can sustain healthy lifestyle changes in the long term. Go about it the wrong way, and not only will you lose time, but you’ll also screw up your metabolism or your view of healthy food in the process."
Guise, Stephen. Mini Habits for Weight Loss: Stop Dieting. Form New Habits.
So potluck: Write down in your journal your bad choices. If you were rewriting that scene, how would your character have done differently? One of my response cards says, We can be loose with our food or thinner but we can't be both.

@its_cleo It can always get worse. lol Never say that. I'm learning to be spontaneous and track. My body is tracking it whether or not I write it down. I've figured out my body wants to keep me fat. She likes being in that comfort zone. Not having to do anything, eat what she wants, she'll keep "trying" though. But new me has taken over the driving and that means I get to control the GPS. I'm sorry about Griffin. I still have Freckles pet carrier. It's been 5 years now I think. Oh, this will be the 6th year. OMG on the cops and all. Yes it's a crazy world.

@cbabie I'm sorry you aren't getting enough sleep. Remember this too will pass and she'll be a teenager who doesn't want to get out of bed. I don't remember the ornaments so I can't help you. I'm sure mom wouldn't have let you put it on the tree with the red bulbs. lol Ask your brother. Then you can pass on the tradition to your DGGD.

theslightedgeforever

@joannadavison My friend is in York right now. She was saying, I can't believe it's 4 pm and getting dark. I laughed and told her that you had just told us that. I said eat a scone for me. So do you have protein bars over there or something else light and healthy you could carry with you for those moments you are stuck in traffic and just need a little something? Yaaay on 7 cals left. That's a big win. Now how many carbs do you have left, since that's what the dr is wanting you to look at.

@nighthazel01 You deserve credit for the walking that you do on your lunch break. I've begun keeping a list in my journal everyday of things I deserve credit for that day. Sometimes it says not taking the second cookie when I really wanted it. Walking 15 min when I really wanted to walk 30. We really do make a lot of good choices through the day but our minds tend to just think about how we messed up. So now I keep a list to remind myself.

Ok, that took awhile. Guess if I didn't talk so much....lol

Red Day-Stayed OP 96/100 Exercise- Zip, Nada, Niente, Zero Busy with sil and didn't plan like I normally do. Tomorrow, putting myself first.

January Week 1 goal: 3 glasses of water daily. Met goal 4/7 days

renaegry

@TeresaW1020 I love my AirPods. My kids big my that I spent the money on them. But so far was worth every penny. Hopefully they work good jogging outside this summer.

@mswatson0777 No I haven’t checked that one out. Will add it to my list. Have a couple episodes left of Wentworth then I plan on getting into season 2 of You

@nighthazel01 welcome

@joannadavison I got my steps in yesterday. So far have done the treadmill twice this week and weights 1 day. Today is another weight day.

@fleetwitch welcome

Since the start back to reality been doing good. Official weigh in is tomorrow but so far down 3 lbs. I figured these first 5 lbs be easy since that’s what i put on over holidays. Been eating well. Logging in both mfp and WW. I still have Ww till April. Getting my walks in on the treadmill try for 3 days a week and 2 days of weights

Hope everyone is doing well. Will try to check back in a few days. Still can’t seem to get in daily. Busy doing client book work at home and running with the kids in the evenings.

TeresaW1020

@its_cleo, I am so sorry for the loss of Griffin and your pain! Our pets are family and you just need to take time to feel all the feelings you have. Yikes how scary to have all that police drama right outside your home! Please take care of yourself! Yeah, people can bug me too! I look at being on F2F as an exercise in self-control and patience. Plus, some of my team members on F2F are pretty darn awesome.

@cbabie, God did create you to sleep and fortunately he created babies to grow up and eventually sleep too. Hang in there my friend!

@joannadavison, yes I read that before too. When I lost 50 lbs people did notice, but now they are used to seeing me the way I look now and I’m looking forward to getting the last 50 lbs off. Baby steps! Yes!!

@theslightedgeforever, thank you for the good advice and I agree about putting myself first. I reached out and found two women to help with my team, which will make me feel less frantic about having to speak to them all every day. I simply don’t have the time for that! I agree with Stephen Guise and need to get that book! That is why I stopped doing Keto. I need a healthy approach to food that I can do for the rest of my life. And that means learning how to manage the potlucks.


Good morning! Today is grocery shopping day and I want to go to Ulta and spend my gift card money. But first I will do my workout and hope this trainer dude doesn't try to make me do any push-ups. Ugghhh those things are the worst!! Wednesday night church starts back tonight as well, so it's a full day. I also have to call my almost 77-year-old mother and see if I can convince her to move in with me. Long story but she needs to get out of my sister's house where she has been living for the last 6 years and come to me where she can have some peace. It will be a huge adjustment for hubby and me but we strongly believe that this is why we ended up with the house we now have. God working his way in our lives and us doing our best to be obedient.

trooworld

Good morning everyone! Well, yesterday was kind of an oops day: I was fine until after 5:00 p.m...DH stayed home sick and even though he felt better, he didn't feel like cooking dinner. I was too tired to cook and so we ordered pizza! It fits in my macros today, but it didn't yesterday.

@mswatson0777 Yesterday was less stressful, thank you, but I still ended up in the deep end lol! No, the honeymoon phase of New Year's is over and now reality hits us all in the face lol. It's time to act on all of those resolutions we made! People fire guns in the air every New Year's and 4th of July in my neighborhood (unfortunately) and it scares the bejezus out of my dog. I'm glad you went back to jiu jitsu, WTG!

@TeresaW1020 Thank you! You sound determined to make some changes. I am also determined. I am in a 5-week financial course right now called 5 Weeks to $500 which is supposed to show you how you can find extra money in your budget without getting a side job, and just generally improve your budgeting habits. Baby steps indeed! I hope you had success with your call to your mother.

@its_cleo Thanks! It's been hard for me to avoid the vending/cafe, especially when my officemate is at work because she eats so much junk. But I'm determined to stay away. I'm so sorry about Griffen. Our pets are part of our family, so it's hard when they go, but you did the best thing for little Griffen. That must have been so scary when the police were outside your apartment building. I had something happen the other week where I had to call the police on a couple of people that were fighting on my doorstep. I was alone and it was scary. ((( HUGS ))) to you.

@cbabie Thanks! Yes we have. Technology is good in some aspects, but not so good in others.

@joannadavison Well...I didn't do so well yesterday! lol but thank you! lol I won't blame you!!!

@nighthazel01 I do better during the week, too. That's great you go for a walk on your lunch, WTG!

@theslightedgeforever Thanks, maybe I'm changing but sometimes I take one step forward, two steps back. Thanks, that's good to know.


COMMITTED.
January goal: track 1 meal a day, go for a walk 1 time a week

mswatson0777

@TheresaW1020 How cool that you're becoming a group leader! All the more motivation to keep killing it in the new year. I wish you the best with your Mom. That is a big transition, but it sounds like a very important one for everyone.

@cbabie I know I struggle with eating when I'm sleep deprived too, hopefully you got more sleep last night!

@its_cleo your new year did get off to a rough start! I wonder if they tased him or used a rubber bullet? For school, I'm studying higher education administration so I can finally have a degree in my field

@trooworld Pizza is so hard to resist! And I can't believe people still fire guns in the air....people literally die from the bullets coming back down...yikes...

@renaegry 3lbs down already is awesome! And I totally get the craziness, it's often why I can't check in over the weekend and can only do week day mornings before life kicks in

@theslightedgeforever I love your Mom's saying! I was just listening to a Hidden Brain episode on the power of routines since many of our actions are automatic and willpower alone doesn't enact lasting change. Hopefully we can all shift our habits and routines so that we get positive results.

@nighthazel01 I love lunchtime walks. I've had to give them up since becoming a returning student, but as soon as my lunch hours are no longer taken up with coursework, I'm back on the walking track!

@joannadavison That is quite an aggressive goal! Hopefully spring will seem a bit more manageable. And having a supportive working environment is so important to becoming our best selves in the office or classroom. I'm glad you've found a great working environment.

I was talking with one of my teammates yesterday and she is always an extremely chill and positive influence, but last night she was even more zen if that's possible. She didn't set a specific resolution, but she said that this is going to be her decade of excellence. She cited Lizzo's last decade of turning from homelessness and losing a parent to now having a top album and national fame and I thought it was a really powerful frame of mind and example.

Why not have 2020 be the decade of excellence? I'll be the first person to say that my mindset has been pretty crummy so far, but why not embrace my inner zen, focus on making the most of each day (even when it feels like a grind), finding small moments of joy, and striving to end the decade in a better place than I started it? So here's to 2020 and the decade of excellence! May it bring physical health, professional success, and personal fulfillment to us all!

Mrsjenningsjr

Joining! I did WW a few years ago and found a bit of success. The point system was simple & I think I still have my WW calculator. Also, after WW I found MFP, was consistent with tracking and lost over 18 lbs. Gained it back but, motivated to keep it off this time!

theslightedgeforever

@renaegry How do the airpods stay in? One of my earbuds is always falling out and if it didn't have a wire connected to it I probably would have dropped it on the ground somewhere. Great job on the 3 lbs. More to follow.

@teresaw1020 If I can learn to manage food gatherings, you're next. I'm so glad that you have some help. This is your year. My mother in law has been living with me now for the last four years. So I completely understand.

@trooworld So right now you're doing the cha-cha and soon you'll move to the tango. Just keep dancing and learning. So the question is how can you eat pizza and still stay within your boundaries. I can think of at least two solutions right now. What about you? You'll need these ideas for the next time this situation happens again. Because it will.

@mswatson0777 Yes, willpower is not sustainable. Motivation fades. It's just the habits that sustain us. We are making habits every day whether we want to or not. Are they good ones or bad ones? For instance, not tracking the meal you just ate is a habit. Putting two pieces of bread in the toaster is a habit. I only need one and cut that in half and now I have two. Eventually I'm satisfied with just that. To a decade of excellence (holds my water glass up) Cheers. I was just calculating my age at the end of this decade. Lord! I'll be 66. But think what all I can accomplish this next 10 years.

@Mrsjenningsjr Welcome to the group! I hope you find lots of support here to help you on your journey.

Green Day-Stayed OP 222/238 carbs Exercise-31 minutes walking

Lost 1 lb which I'm extremely happy about since I've had company for a week. Now to just get through this week. I hate having my routine disturbed but such is life and I'm learning to roll with it versus old me which would say, I'll start again as soon as she's gone. I spend alot of time these days thinking, OK, how can I make this work? lol

January Week 2 goal: 3 glasses of water daily. Met goal 1/1 days

trooworld

Good morning everyone! Ugh I have a migraine this morning!!! Yesterday, I did well eating. I even cooked soup after being tired from work. Tonight's dinner is already done yay!

@mswatson0777 Yes it is! And I do not resist it lol. I know, right? What goes up must come down! Wow, that is a really powerful frame of mind and example! I like the idea of 2020 being the decade of excellence...I love it! May it bring the same to you as well!

@Mrsjenningsjr Hello and welcome!!! If you want to do the WW point system and don't have your calculator, some people use an app on their phone called iTrackBites.

@theslightedgeforever lol I like that analogy. I can either do portion control and eat with a salad or I can just say no. I'm not sure that's what you are thinking of??? Congrats on losing while having company, that's no easy feat!

COMMITTED.
January goal: track 1 meal a day, go for a walk 1 time a week

mswatson0777

@trooworld Choosing the healthy choice when tired is a huge NSV, way to go! And leftovers make the week so much easier, way to set yourself up for success. I hope you feel better soon.

@theslightedgeforever Losing a pound with company is a huge NSV! Way to go!!! Great job overpowering your old habits and the *F* it attitude of the past!

Welcome @Mrsjenningsjr!

I had a pretty great day yesterday. Honestly, I've been happier, more centered, and more grounded in my day-to-day routine than I was during my two week vacation, go figure. I guess that means I'm doing something right with my life?

I've been thinking more about habits and realized that I already have a lot of really strong habits in place and that I need to give myself more credit for what I'm doing right. I get 5 servings of fruit/veggies in a day minimum, I've got a physical activity I love and do frequently, and between walking the dogs and walking to work every day I get some decent miles in. That being said, there are plenty of habits I need to look at (eating my feelings instead of feeling my feelings, overindulging in treats, etc.) but overall I'm feeling better about where I'm starting this year than I have in the past.

JoDavo66

@theslightedgeforever I love York. It's about an hour south of us: Betty's Tea Rooms, The Chocolate musuem, Castle Musem, Jorvik Viking Centre, The Minster plus good shops!
Agree with your comment in second post- developing habits- that's what I'm aiming to do. I still have some "bad" ones but the improved ones are more frequent.

@renaergy well done on steps. Are you still a WW member? I still buy the magazine & use some of the recipes.

@nighthazel01 I always find things easier with routine

@TeresaW1020 re:baby steps- this toddler fell down today but I climbed back up!! Good vibes etc for your Mum moving in.

@trooworld sometimes life just throws us a curve ball & we have to go with it. Might not be in the plan but if the rest of plan is still in actio- it's only a hiccup in the bigger picture. Hope you are feeling better.

@mswatson0777 being in a nice working environment makes huge difference. I think I've already said the Head of Dept is off ill (serious but I don't know details) -the acting role was offered to both us 2nds- I didn't want it (been there, done that) but I did say I fully supported the other 2nd & I'd help her/share experience. She's been really poorly last couple of days & sent home on Mon. I love how others have just rallied round to support me doing 3 jobs. Wouldn't have happened at my last place!
Decade of excellence sounds good.
I do think we have a tendancy to beat ourselves up when things go wrong and not realise how much we've already achieved.

@Mrsjenningsjr Hi welcome to group.

Well I felt awful last night. Ended up pumped full of anaesthetic which my body doesn't like. At least dentist saved my tooth. Back next week for the other one which is less complicated. Took gym kit today but I felt so awful decided not to go. Got 2 sets of books marked & still left early. Ended up indulging with the goodies on staff room table- thankfully a lot were toffees & I didn't dare touch them. I just felt so yuk. So tonight's dinner is total comfort food. Had this planned anyway. Hoping youngest will help me make it as I just want me bed!

nighthazel01

@Mrsjenningsjr welcome!!

@joannadavison I hope you’re feeling better

I’ve been working hard, I’m tracking all my meals, but if I don’t lose a pound soon, I throwing my scale out the window.

skimbl

Hi folks! I was fairly active on the WW boards about 7 years ago (different username than the MFP one). It's so nice to see that a support group still exists. I firmly believe that the WW community was what helped me successfully stick with the program.

I'm currently hovering about 15lbs over my comfy weight of 175. I decided no better day than today to get back to tracking!

theslightedgeforever

@trooworld Sorry about the migraine. Those were two good suggestions. Two things I thought of were cutting a piece in half so in your mind it looks like two or just take the toppings off the pizza and eat that. Or you could take the toppings off the pizza and eat half the crust. There are always ways to reduce calories/carbs.

@mswatson0777 I still have a bit of the *F* it attitude with everything else in life. I spent too many years people pleasing and now it's my turn. Great insight you had about your habits. We never give ourselves enough credit. So that's why I started doing it every day in my journal. Sometimes I have to sit and think about it but little things come to me. Which is interesting as that is what my 100 day lesson covered today. The solution for life is to focus on compounding small choices in the direction desired-Steven Guise.

@joannadavison0777 Thanks for the York tips. I passed them along. I always find things easier with routine too. Good for you for planning ahead your comfort food. I'm learning that if it's going to happen anyway, might as well make it work for me. That's what I've been doing this week with my company.

@nighthazel01 So tell me some other NSV (non scale victories) that you have been having. What good choices did you make today? It's so frustrating when we don't get rewarded with all our hard work. Just keep going and you'll see a Whoosh!

@skimbl Welcome to the group! Are you still doing the program? Which team color did you choose? I stopped counting points and am counting carbs because I was pre-diabetic and doc told me lower my carbs. I'm doing a medium-high carb plan. Sounds weird cause everyone does a low carb plan but it's working for me because I'm able to stick to it. My weight and my glucose are coming down. I think tracking is the most important thing in my program.

Here's a bit of what I learned in my 100 day book.....Consistency is not only the key to behavior change: it is evidence of behavior change. Those trying to force themselves to eat a certain way will often slip up and have “cheat days,” when they eat what they want to eat. Those who succeed change their underlying food preferences through the power of habit formation.

Your current and past habits have created your current weight. A different set of habits will create a different result (ideally, some rate of weight loss). This is from Mini Habits for Weight Loss by Steven Guise.

Green Day-Stayed OP 237/238 carbs Exercise 30 min YouTube video. Cute little thing to Christmas music. I'm a little late, ey? I kept meaning to do it in December but never got around to it. Better late than never.

January Week 2 goal: 3 glasses of water daily. Met goal 2/2 days

trooworld

Hello everyone. Well, yesterday I got some bad news about the health of an estranged family member and needless to say, I did not make the best eating choices. I'm going to forgive myself and move on.

@mswatson0777 Thank you! Yes, we always make enough at dinner to take for lunch the next day, it makes things so much easier. Thanks, my migraine was gone by about noon. I'm glad you are happier now and having a great day! It does sound like you have some great habits...I'm glad you are recognizing those now.

@joannadavison Yes indeed and yesterday I had a curveball that I had to go with. I feel better now, thanks. I'm glad the dentist was able to save your tooth but sorry you felt awful.

@nighthazel01 WTG tracking all your meals and working hard! I hear you about the scale. Are you also measuring your body with a tape measure? Sometimes those changes show up first.

@theslightedgeforever Thanks. Unfortunately, I get them pretty regularly. Thanks for helping me think outside the box! Good ideas from the books you read. I can't wait to have different habits. Exercising to Christmas music? I guess you are late or a little early.

COMMITTED.
January goal: track 1 meal a day, go for a walk 1 time a week

TeresaW1020

@mswatson0777, Yes!! Let’s make this a decade of excellence! I love it! And yes, even in the daily grind we can find small moments of joy. We just have to be willing to see them. Thank you, I am hoping that by being a leader it will keep me more focused this year on my own weight loss.

@theslightedgeforever, Yayyyy for your one pound loss!! I lost .6 this week so at least I too am heading in the right direction. Great quote from Steven Guise! Creating a different set of habits is what I’m all about right now! Especially when eating at church potlucks!

@joannadavision, I sure hope you are feeling better today! That is good that the dentist could save the tooth. I have a tooth that worries me and might have to have some extra attention one day soon and I know it’s going to cost a lot of money. But I don’t want to lose it so I’ll pay what it takes.

@trooworld, I’m sorry you got bad news about someone you love! Yes, be kind to yourself and move on. I hope you will have a good and peaceful weekend.

Good morning! Well, my mom is moving in with us. I will drive down to Florida on Feb. 29th and bring her back on March 1st. My birthday is on March 2nd and she seems to think getting a mother is a great birthday present. She is only bringing what can fit into my SUV so hubby and I will go shopping soon and get her new bedroom furniture. I would be lying if I said I wasn't a little scared about having her here and all that it will entail as we go forward. She turns 77 in a couple of weeks and my DH turns 77 in May. I'm just really praying that they both don't go declining on me at the same time!! However I am strangely at peace about all this and since I believe it's God's will for my life right now I am certain he will see me through whatever the future holds. At least that is my big prayer at the moment!! In other news, I did lose .6 lbs this week and I’m working on making good food choices while not sticking to a particular diet plan. We will see if that works!

mswatson0777

@TheresaW1020 That is going to be a big change for both you and your spouse! Transitions are always hard, but I hope the transition goes as smoothly as possible.

@trooworld I'm so sorry to hear that, that sounds like a horribly stressful and difficult situation.

@theslightedgeforever I feel you with the people pleasing. I felt like my entire holiday season was about pleasing other people. I ended up miserable and it did not go well because it was never enough. Next year is going to be 100% different.

Welcome @skimbl

@nighthazel01 Sorry to hear your habits aren't showing results. How long have you been in a plateau for? Are there habits you've switched up during this time?

@joannadavison So sorry you aren't feeling well and that the dentist visit ended up being complicated. How was your dinner last night? I hope the planned comfort food helped!

HAPPY FRIDAY!!! We're super busy at work today so I'm hoping the day goes by quickly. I'm going to treat myself to a drop in yoga class tonight and a glass of wine. It's going to be another busy weekend with my SO's work holiday party tomorrow and a friend party on Sunday. I also made sure I had some down time during the days so I can cook up some healthy meals and get all set up for my classes starting Monday. This is going to be a brutal semester but I'm ready to tackle it. I hope you all have great days as well!

its_cleo

@mswatson0777 Enjoy the wine and yoga! Yoga is the one thing I’ve never really liked lol. A decade of excellence sounds like a tall order…I will say I have enjoyed my life more each decade. My 30s was better than my 20s, my 20s was better than my teens. My 40s..I’m 43….I don’t know if it’s better than my 30s. I have less emotional difficulties, I am more relaxed in my life.

@trooworld ….shooting guns off on the holidays is weird, but I guess it’s an American thing because we simply do not have that here. At least not in Ontario- maybe

@renaegry could comment on Alberta. Sorry to hear about your family member.

@theslightedgeforever I have the same worry about air pods- that I will lose them. There’s a kind you can buy where the two are attached, I might try those bc at least they’re linked together. Congrats on the pound! I think you’re absolutely right about noting the things we do well. I think it’s really important.

@TeresaW1020 pushups are hard. I can’t do them properly but it’s my dream. I can do them from the knees. From the toes, I can go down all the way slowly 10 second descent. That is supposed to build up your arm strength. The exercise I hate is cable rows, trainer makes me do it….I hope it works out with your mother, I’m sure it will turn out ok after everyone adjusts.

@renaegry good luck getting back into the swing of things. Will you renew WW? I like MFP better.

@joannadavison toasted tea cake sounds great! Good luck with the dental stuff. I have a lot of old fillings that need to be repaired. So I will go in again next week.
Well I’m getting by ok.

Thanks for all the kind words re Griffin. I’ve had a tough week, I just feel kind of *kitten*.

So far though I’ve done really well since the new year with calories and exercise but it’s starting to get hard. Yesterday I splurged and had a burger and poutine (fries, cheese curds, gravy) at the food court. It was ok, but I’m over calories by 200 or 300. I think next time I will split the meals ie have either a burger or the fries but not both.

I have stuck to my exercise goals but today I’m supposed to run and do a core workout and on Saturday run and do an upper body workout. My motivation is very low but we’ll see. I just want to hide which is terrible.

Still having issues with my wrist. I saw the RMT yesterday and he said he thought I should see a chiro. So I will probably get it checked out, but I’ll wait a few weeks because I’ve had a few unexpected expenses.

renaegry

@theslightedgeforever So fat I have had no problem with them staying in. They nestle right into the ear. I did a test of shaking my head vigorously and they stayed in. And if I do feel like the moving I just push on them and they are always snug.

@joannadavison Yes. I am still on WW. I cancelled it but had locked into a year so have it till April.

Plan to hit the treadmill again today. And supper plan is chicken chop suey with rice.

Hope everyone is doing well.

JoDavo66

@nighthazel01 thanks- today was better. IKWYM about the scales. I put so much on over Christmas with a cheese fest, even if I have lost I still feel huge so I almost daren't get on in case it's not good.

Hi @skimbl welcome. I did WW for 10 years, still following most of the principles & many recipes too.

@theslightedgeforever the pasta bake we had last night was lush. I worked it our to have more cals the the recipe said (maybe I used different brand of tortellini) but it was so lovely- definitely going on my list again- only 5 mins to prep too. I am with you on that quote- I've stopped having "treat night" built in to the week. Tonight I was so tired I dosed instead of making dinner- went to McD's on way to sea cadets-I had enough cals with some still left over for small meal. I had what I needed but not because it was "cheat night" but because I could. Slip up in one sense but as one off in allowance it's OK!

@trooworld thanks- I'm exhausted but feeling better today. Sorry to hear you've had bad news about family member. Total empathy with you after our last 6 months of it.

@TeresaW1020 I'm pleased I still have the tooth too. The opposite one that chipped too is not so complicated & he's doing that one next week. We think they might have both cracked when I fell in Nov. I hope things work out with your Mother. My Gran lived in with us & it was interesting to say the least. My Mam lives round the corner from us, we were there constantly when Dad was terminal & I moved in with Mam to help her when she had knee replacement but neither of us want to make it permanent. This works well for us. I'm glad you are at peace with your situation too. Well done on the 6lb!!!!

@mswatson0777 thanks. I was so glad I chose that recipe- it was gorgeous.

@its_cleo replacing filings is pretty awful had a few of those done over the years. Looks like we're both at dentist next week again! Sorry to hear your wrist still playing up.- you need my trainer- he's work wonders with my shouder!

@renaergy I think the UK WW is month by month rather than a year contract. Might as well use it while you have it.

I am just so glad it's Friday. I woke up with the worst leg cramp I've ever experienced. My screaming & pain woke me. DH wasn't very with it & had to attempt to help! So I was rather tired today. Exam week next week & not happy with Y10 (freshman) who had not revised & then complained at how much they have to do for Monday, didn't I know it was the weekend!! GRRRRR. Looks like their papers won't take long to mark next week 🤣🤣🤣
Had sneaky little McDs & although not greatest choice I did have the calories!!
So looking forward to a day of scrapbooking tomorrow with my crafty friends.
Have a lovely weekend whatever you're up to.

nighthazel01

@TeresaW1020 I admire your positive attitude, it goes a long way in ensuring things will turn out positive

@its_cleo it’s great you have an exercise routine. It’s something I have to work on. I’ve been working long hours and pretty much come home and go to bed, I do walk on my lunch break.

@mswatson0777 Good for you with all the food prep, that’s not easy.


It rained all day here, but that didn’t stop me from going on my afternoon walk at lunch. Food wise I did great this week.

Two of my kids went back to college this week, my other goes this weekend. It makes meal time easier with just me and DH. I’m a borderline vegetarian, but I eat fish, and eggs. I think my iron might be low, so something for me to keep an eye on

its_cleo

@nighthazel01 I used to have a job like that. It's very hard to exercise when working all the time. I was lucky I ended up changing and getting a job that I mostly work from home.

It's boring and the salary is a bit lower but it lets me exerciae more.

Def watch iron levels. It can really drain your energy if too low.

theslightedgeforever

@renaegry Thanks for the info on the AirPods.

@joannadavison Take the plunge and get on the scales so you know where you are. It's just a number. My philosophy on your mcd's is if you have the carbs/cals/points, why not? Especially if you aren't doing it all the time. You ordered a small meal versus getting something bigger.

@nighthazel01 Woohoo for walking on your lunch in the rain. I really hate rain so I probably would have sat and complained. lol Yaaay on your food choices this week too. I seem to gain back the weight I lose when I'm around my children so I understand.

@its_cleo So how are your food choices this week? I have a problem with iron too.

theslightedgeforever

@trooworld Sorry about the family member. I gained 15 lbs when I found out my mom had cancer. It didn't change one thing for her but hurt me in the process. Christmas music, I'm almost always behind so I guess I'm right on schedule. I always have a list to do and I'll get to it eventually.

@teresaw1020 Woohoo on the weight loss. You are moving in the right direction. We are going to rock our habits this year. Your mom: I think it's important early on to establish your boundaries. There will be added stress. Just figure out early how to not stress-eat but stress-exercise or stress-journal, stress-meditate, etc. Do you have a little safe haven in your house? Some corner? I have to have my alone time. I don't want to wake up and go downstairs and start dealing with my mil before I've had my tea. I no longer feel guilty about me going to my room in my nook and doing my thing and leaving her downstairs to watch TV or whatever. I figure if she was still living at her house that's exactly what she would be doing anyway. I do have a set time where I sit with her for about 3 hours straight. She has Alzheimers so sometimes she's there and then other times she's not. She also likes to play victim sometimes. Depending on my mood, sometimes I let her, sometimes not. I do take care of my physical and mental health first now because otherwise, that could be me one day. God will bless you for taking care of your mom.

@mswatson0777 People pleasing: Yes it's never enough. Now I'm learning to open my mouth and do what I want. Before I was just opening my mouth to shove food down. For instance my sister in law is here and she doesn't like to be alone so she wants to take up every waking moment of my life. In the past, I would let her. Not this trip. The other day I excused myself saying I'm going to go exercise I'll be back. She said do you have to exercise? Yes I do. Old me would have said I can do it tomorrow, I'll sit and talk with you. Once you do it, it becomes easier. Today I said I haven't done my exercise for the day so I'm going to the gym. (I have a home gym) It felt good knowing I had taken care of myself. I had 2 Doritos with her. I checked my tracker and found I had enough left for 2 Doritos. So I ate and enjoyed them instead of telling myself, I'll start again once she goes home on Wednesday. Yes, I'm counting the days.

@trooworld Maybe yoga isn't something you like but maybe something you need. Just once for a change. Because you usually use your muscles/body in the same way all the time. They say we need something different. Now having said all that, I don't do yoga either. Once in a while but I know the different movements is good for my body. Although it looks easy, I think yoga is tough.

@its_cleo The trick to a consistent diet is to eat things you love but less of it. So would eating half your burger and half your poutine work for you? I had a cheeseburger and fries this past week. It might be the first or second time I've had it in 5 months. That surely is a record because before I might have had it at least once a week. No wonder I was almost 50 lbs lighter. But as I was eating it, I noticed that it was just "okay". My tastes are changing and I learned that I'm not missing what I thought I was missing. But knowing that I can eat it if I want to is half the battle.

Yellow Day- Stayed OP 162/164 Exercise- 30 min treadmill.

Oh when I got on the treadmill you know how you are supposed to enter your weight and then hit start. Usually I enter a weight that is around 1-2 lbs either lower or higher than the number that is there. Before, I seem to always lose the same 2 lbs. This time I got on and was shocked because the number was 8 lbs higher than I am right now. (You can tell how long it's been since I was on my treadmill. I'd rather walk outside or the at the mall.) It felt so good to just keep lowering that number downward.

its_cleo

@joannadavison you're talk about the papers and students reminds me of school lol. I did like university but I don't miss the work. I was a crazy student though, I exhausted myself working to get As. Enjoy scrapbooking! It always looks like a fun thing to do but I've never tried it.

@theslightedgeforever my tastes are changing too, and my stomach. I had a piece of pizza a couple of weeks for lunch from a pizza place down the street and it just about killed me. I felt sick for hours afterward. I think because I'm not used to it? I eat much less fast food than I used to. yay for the treadmill!

So yesterday I went for a run and it was good. Honestly I still feel very upset and down about Griffin. I was really unprepared for how hard it hit me. I just feel devastated and then I feel stupid like I shouldn't feel upset. Also part of it I think is hard because it wasn't a clear cut case....the other thing was taking him was a nightmare, I had to chase him down and he was so scared and flipped out and I just keep seeing it.

Anyway I feel proud that I have stayed somewhat steady on food choices and exercise this week. One thing at the end of last year that I wanted to work on- I will be very honest I drink too much, and the biggest barrier for me meeting my exercise/calorie goals is the drinking. Partly because of the calories, the food I eat when I drink, and also it affects my ability to exercise. So at the end of last year I really wanted to dedicate myself to making a change because I tired of it, and to choose health. That's why I have the goals around drinking- not to quit, but just to drink much less.

So today my plan was to run. But last night I really really really wanted a drink because it was just such a *kitten* week and I felt so bad. Instead I just cried a little bit and didn't drink so today I feel somewhat rested and will be able to meet my exercise goal. That is huge for me.

I want to go through my pictures of him but I'm not sure, not sure I wish I could think of something to do with them. I had him 13 years so it feels like a long time.

TeresaW1020

@theslightedgeforever, thanks for the advice on moving my mom in. I figure with a 7-hour car ride to get her here with me I will have plenty of time to lay down the ground rules. We plan to set up her room so that it’s her personal sanctuary away from us. I really do think it will all work out but yeah, it’s going to be an adjustment for sure! That is so cool about the treadmill and how much weight you have lost!

@joannadavison, yikes on the leg cramp! My legs are prone to them as well and I have learned how to stop it if I’m awake but there are some nights when I’m woken up screaming too. I do take magnesium and stretch regularly which has greatly helped. Have fun scrapbooking!

@its_cleo, that is good advice on the 10-second slow descent. I did watch some YouTube videos on pushups and I think I just need to get stronger and lose more weight. I’ll get there! This is a hard time for you right now with losing Griffin. Do you suffer from SAD at this time of the year? I hope you can get outside with your run and get in some sun and relax. Hang in there!

@mswatson0777, I don’t care for yoga but the wine is something I can get behind! I hope you enjoy your parties. What are the classes that you are taking?

Good morning! Today's plan is to work out, do a little housework, and start reorganizing so I can move my mom in. Right now I have her room as my exercise room and the other room in my house as a storage room. So, I will combine my storage and exercise space, which will work out just fine. I have been wanting to reorganize since I moved in and now I have a good reason to actually do it!

cbabie

Morning all,
I seem to have gotten another cold. I have not been like this in years. It just tells me my life is out of balance. I am working on that. There were 25 post since my last check in and I can't catch up on all of them. (see out of balance) . I have put some weight back on and feel it...so I have to do something. This is a life long battle, no magic pill, just consistancy

I welcome all the new ones!! Glad you found us and hope you find support, encouragement and just plain fellowship!!!

@trooworld I am sorry that you received bad news, I think your right, just move on...don't beat yourself up.

@joannadavison I couldn't let my dad move in here. He always wanted to, but I couldn't. It's one thing I regret. However, sometimes it puts a strain on a healthy relationship. I am grateful that you feel you should be doing this.

I will try again to get back on checking in each day so I don't have to play catch up because I just am overwhelmed with I get so far behind.

Cbabie

trooworld

Hello everyone! I'm hoping to have a good weekend, I need it! I'm getting my hair done today.

@TeresaW1020 Our relationship is complicated. We are estranged, have been since August 2019, but should have been for longer. It's a complex situation for me and the emotions are very difficult for me, I'm struggling. I have no desire to reconnect at this point, it would not be healthy for me, this person was abusive. So this is a difficult time. Thank you. I can understand your apprehension with your mom moving in, I hope it all works out. Congrats on losing this week, woo hoo!!!

@mswatson0777 Thank you, it's very, very stressful and difficult for many reasons (see my comment to TeresaW1020 above). Yoga and a glass of wine sounds like a nice treat! Enjoy your weekend and I'm glad you carved out some time for you.

@its_cleo Yes, unfortunately, I think it's very American for some Americans. You have every right to still be upset about Griffin. Our pets are part of our family. Congrats on not drinking.

@joannadavison Thanks. I'm glad you are feeling better today. I used to get leg cramps, it was awful! Enjoy your scrapbooking!!!

@nighthazel01 I love walking in the rain.

@theslightedgeforever It's a difficult situation (see my comment to TeresaW1020 above). I'm definitely not going to gain any weight over this person. Enjoy your Christmas music, whenever you listen to it! That's cool about the treadmill.

@cbabie I'm sorry you got a cold, I hope you feel better soon! Thank you. I need to take care of me.

COMMITTED.
January goal: track 1 meal a day, go for a walk 1 time a week