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

JoDavo66

@trooworld with not eating meat, except fish, I don't get huge amounts of protein. Just after keto ideas so I can add more protein & drop carbs. Hope you get some downtime on Sunday after bust Saturday.

@cbabie pleased job going well. With family stuff going on maintenance is better than gain. That's an achievement.

@its_cleo work pressures & deserts go together. I was eating way too many traybakes at coffee shops end of Oct & then Nov. I'm trying to protein load a bit more & bought supplement at gym- it's chocolate mousse flavour so on an evening when I want to snack I'm having a shake instead. Choc kick plus protein! Your exercise plan of adding a little extra sounds a good idea.

@TeresaW1020 I'm looking of ways at upping protein without the meat! I did make a massive chilli with Quorn (plant protein product) mince & lots of pulses but with no rice or nachos (make them usually from low fat wraps like WW). Problem is I tend to make the same things, get bored and then.... well we know what happens then! I've got a blood test in new year to see if the markers are still there. In meantime I'll have a look at that link. Interested to see your weight lifting increase. A year ago I didn't have range to lift my right arm above my head or to lift sideways at all. Working with trainer I've got.loads more movement & this week shoulder pressed 6lb for 1st time- so another year & I might be up to your 12!

@mswatson0777 maybe I should look up some old Atkins recipes. My concern with Atkins & Keto is that we have famial high cholesterol which I've been aware of sinceI was a drug rep in when I was 22. I was really impressed when I had toutine bloods in late 40sto check it & it was much lower than in my 20s. They said it was high so I was retested again & got it to below the old level but it was higher than the new recommended level but when I told them what my mother's was without medication they were happy with that. I've heard of cauliflower being used as rice but not a base. I must tryto.bemore imaginative. I am hoping that the markers have disappeared in new year. I'm curious to know the difference with Brazilian Ju-jitsu?

@theslightedgeforever I've just got to agree with you. I look at my friends & peers many on medication for high blood pressure, cholesterol etc etc. All I'm on is Vitamin D( well I live in UK so that's not a surprise), a proton inhibitor for inherited elevated stomch acid- but I don't need this all the time & a low dose SSRI for menopausal mood swings. So if there's something there then I need to look at lifestyle & change.

I'm pleased the bulk of house is sorted. We are starting on deep clean now. Painting & decorating elsewhere starts after Christmas but that's nowhere near as disruptive.
Just want to get through next few days. Dentist on Wednesday as cracked & lost bits of 2 teeth since I fell, Thursday my nephew flies in so DH picking him up & then after work we're all going to see niece in school Nativity play then onto my girls' school for Advent Concert. Friday is FiL's funeral, so I effectively have 3 days left over 4 days then finished for 2 week holiday. I've booked gym & massage time!!!!!

trooworld

Hi gals! I had a great day yesterday. Went to lunch with my friend before going to the photographic museum and it was just good to catch up with her. Got home and took a quick nap before leaving for the play. The play was just okay, but it was nice to get out and about! Meal prep today is going to be:

Slow-Roasted Chuck Roast + Roast Potatoes
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Lentil Chili
The Ultimate Fruit, Cheese & Nut Salad
Chicken, Feta Cheese, and Sun-Dried Tomato Wraps
Chinese Chicken Salad with Sesame-Ginger Dressing

@cbabie That's better to be in maintenance mode than gaining mode, right? Are you trying to lose weight or are you happy maintaining? I'm glad the job is going well. Thank you very much for the prayers, I appreciate it and could use all of them I can get! I'm sorry your wrists are still hurting. We are blessed on this board! Enjoy church!

@its_cleo At least you are keeping up with the exercise, that is good. Yesterday was fun, and the friend I went with is super fun, so it was a great day! Yes, I'm glad the walls are on their way to getting put back together, too. Right now, they are down to being bare (the drywall is down and the insulation is gone), but I'm sure it will get sorted out soon. That's good you wrote your fitness plan down in your calendar, I always hear to do that.

@TeresaW1020 I did have a great day! It was called THE EIGHT: Reindeer Monologues by Jeff Goode. The play was so-so. But it was cheap to go: less than $15 a ticket, so I'm not going to complain too much! I'm a visual person too, so I can totally get why that tracker would appeal to you. Good luck, I hope you get your t-shirt! You are totally going to reach your goal in 2020, you are doing so well!

@mswatson0777 I did have an amazing time! I walked quite a bit (the park where the museum is located is quite large and I had to park far away), ate good food and had good conversation. Oh, did I mention I saw good photography? I hope the dog treats come out well. How is your body feeling after all the injuries?

@theslightedgeforever Thanks, me too. I think the work is about 1/3 over. The drywall is removed and the moisture is gone. Now, they have to put the drywall back up, paint and then fix the reason why the problem happened in the first place (which I think they are still deciding on). I did have a good time yesterday. Today is meal prep and back to business. No, I haven't been stress eating. I hope you have a good weekend, too.

@joannadavison So you need keto ideas centered around fish. Keto is moderate protein and since beans are out on keto, your choices for protein are eggs, fish, tofu, tempeh, spirulina, nutritional yeast, and nut butters. Here's a link to a page I found on vegetarian diet on keto written by a registered dietician. If you need some recipes, let me know. I have over 6,000 recipes and likely have some that would fit the bill: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vegetarian-keto-diet-plan

EMPOWERED.
December goals: track 5 days a week, drink 50 oz of liquids a day, go for a walk 2 times a week, lose 1 lb

its_cleo

@joannadavison yeah some of those protein supplements are a good idea. I have one, but I made the mistake of buying it unflavoured, so I'm trying to finish it before I buy another one. I read a cool recipe here on MFP for cheesecake made with protein powder but I haven't tried it. It is definitely hard to get protein if you don't eat meat. There is another meat substitute called seitan, you can google recipes how to make it. I tried to be veg a few years ago so I tried everything.

@cbabie that sucks about losing the post…I try to write it all in Word first because I found that was happening to me too. And- Sesame Street rocks. Love it. A few years ago I got the DVDs for one of the seasons of the old Muppet Show from the 70s, 80s? It was so good.

@theslightedgeforever thanks for the info, yeah as soon as I googled it a bunch of stuff came up. I think the first thing I would have to do is start planning more in advance bc I don’t do that.

Man Star Wars is so popular. I just don’t get it. I had no idea another movie was coming out. I tried to watch the original three and just couldn’t get through even one. I don’t think I’ve seen any of the new ones. I love all the Marvel movies though.

@mswatson0777 those classes sound tiring! Not sure I could do that. But I’m totally down with tv and popcorn! Are you in an area that gets wintry weather? Maybe you said and I missed it, sorry.

@TeresaW1020…weights I’m not sure what to get. These neoprene ones are probably the cheapest - I think this is showing Canadian prices so it might even be cheaper in the US.

https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-Pound-Neoprene-Dumbbells-Weights/dp/B01LR5SAIA/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1D2KGMT3UH3LR&keywords=dumbbells&qid=1576425427&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sprefix=dumb,aps,168&sr=8-1-spons&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExNkw1SUFPNkZJUktTJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwOTI4MDEzTVVDUVBVOU0yQUcmZW5jcnlwdGVkQWRJZD1BMDk3Mzk4MzJWODVDTzlEMlc3Qkcmd2lkZ2V0TmFtZT1zcF9hdGYmYWN0aW9uPWNsaWNrUmVkaXJlY3QmZG9Ob3RMb2dDbGljaz10cnVl&th=1

Also I always heard people say try to buy second hand. You can also buy adjustable weights but they’re super expensive.

But you mentioned your shoulders hurt- does Beachbody show you how to do the proper form? I don’t want to come across as a know it all, but with bent over rows try to keep your shoulders back and down. Like don’t let them come up tight around your ears if you know what I mean. It’s hard, it will make the move harder but it is a safer form and may make your shoulders hurt less….if you know all this you can tell me to get lost lol. There are probably form videos on youtube too.

The habit tracker sounds great.

Well last night was my big family dinner and I did indeed eat too much. So yep my weight is up by like 2 lbs today though I’m sure some of that is salt. But I feel back on track and will go for a run later although I’m sure my turtle speed will be down to snail speed!

I’m super excited this is the last week before xmas and then I get a break from work.

@trooworld glad you had a good day. Photographic museum sounds interesting. One of the exhibits I may see over xmas is a wildlife photo exhibit. Some of the pictures look amazing. Are you working all week, or are you taking time off for xmas?

TeresaW1020

@mswatson007, homemade popcorn and Star Wars sounds like a wonderful night! How did the 12 bars of Christmas go? That sounds like it could be a lot of fun too!

@theslightedgeforever, I’m going to give carb cycling a try for the next few weeks and see how I like it. I like the idea of moving around my days to fit my lifestyle. Do you think it’s very important to match my low/high carb days to my actual workout schedule? That could be trickier if I had to do that because somedays, I end up not doing the workout that I had planned due to some stupid injury, yet it’s going to be a higher carb day due to an event. See below 😉

@cbabie, thank you! I certainly pray that it will be my year to reach my goals. I’ve only been saying it for over 30 years. Ugghhhh!! FYI, I make chicken for my dog and mix it with her food and a little cheese every night for dinner. Last night she had bacon instead of the cheese. Yes, she is a totally spoiled diva.

@joannadavison, sorry for the confusion! I can’t be of much help with upping protein that doesn’t include meat. Beans and spinach are all that comes to mind. Glad the house is getting sorted out. You have a busy week so I’m glad to read that you will be able to take time to go to the gym and get a massage. I NEED a massage!

@trooworld, well sorry that the play wasn’t the best but like you said at least it got you out of the house and spending some quality time with your hubby. I hope we both reach our goals next year!

@its_cleo, thanks for the link! I thought the weights were going to be more expensive until realized that it was for a pair. That is more doable for sure. Some of the trainers do talk about using the proper form more than others. My current lady I’m watching does a good job of making sure, but she also assumes that most of us know how to do this stuff. I like your idea of watching YouTube videos and I think I will spend some time this week doing that. I did that when I started doing squats and that really helped me. Yes, your weight gain is mostly salt for sure. It will come off in no time!

Well, yesterday I rammed myself into the door jam and hurt my back. I swear I can hurt my back just by thinking about it! So, I've taken today off of working out and am using my back massager and taking Iburphren. I'm sure it will be better by tomorrow. My Sunday school kids loved their little party that we had this morning and their gifts were a big hit. One little boy had mentioned how he wanted a church mug (his dad collects mugs) and he wanted Sharpies. He is always using my Sharpies in class. So that is what I gave him and his little face lit up so bright. It made my morning! Then I taught children's church and we made the jingle bell bracelets which was another big hit with them all. Tonight is our Christmas concert and cookie and punches fellowship. So, hopefully my back can behave itself. I told DH that he can help me make the punches so I don't do much lifting.

renaegry

Good evening all. Well I never did find a chance to pop back in since last post. Been very busy. Finding it hard to find the time for treadmill. When I do been doing brisk walks. Feeling a little under the weather lately with a scratchy throat and a stuffed nose. Have loads of client book work to get done plus tis the season. Kids are done school on Friday and we are basically running around everyday till they go back to school. Lol.

Eating hadn’t been to to bad weight had dropped to 155 but son had a weekend hockey tournament so eating wasn’t the greatest indulged in a few drinks and sat around watching hockey all weekend. So thinking the weight has creeped up again. Hitting it hard again in the new year.

Went to the doc on Wednesday and he was livid that nothing showed up on ct scan yet there is a huge visible lump on jawline. He scared me by saying he was rushing me into the city the next day to a specialist for an mri etc. But first the specialist wanted a panorex X-ray done from my dentist. So off I went. My dentist offered to to take a look at the X-ray and you wouldn’t believe it but I have an abscess tooth in the back. That has been my Tmj problem for who knows how long. So I am on a strong antibiotic and i am getting the tooth pulled on Thursday.

I know these next few weeks are busy. Will try to check in daily but I have been sucking at that. Lol. Will try to get in exercise when I can but I do no there will be plenty of booze involved over the holiday.

Hope everyone is doing well. Will try to keep up.

theslightedgeforever

@cbabie You know there will never be a perfect moment to start carb cycling. I can hear your all or nothing thinking. Why not pick one day of the week right now and do a red day. 100 carbs. You get to choose how you fill those carbs. You can even put peanut butter in there. Then next week add a second day and do two red days.

theslightedgeforever

@joannadavison Did the doctor say you have to do keto specifically or just lose weight? So how about cheese or eggs? Since I started this carb cycling thing, I'm eating a lot more of those lately. Here's my thoughts on cholesterol. You can end up at the end of your life due to that or due to fatty liver disease. Which has the greatest risks for you right now. I'll be interested to see my own blood test results in March after doing this program. How is your mil doing. It must be extremely hard on her.

@trooworld I think I would like that photography museum. Yaaay on some extra walking. Wouldn't it be great to be able to get in all our exercise just through incidental movement because of lifestyle?

@its_cleo Planning in advance is probably one of the reasons I've been able to stay OP everyday. Plus telling myself when I see something I want that it's not on today's plan. But I can have it for tomorrow. That's what happened with oatmeal today. I opened the pantry to get something else and saw the oatmeal and thought yummmm because I need something to warm me up. Then I said to myself well you didn't plan it for today so you can have it tomorrow. Which I am. Nice bowl of oatmeal with brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon. I'm adding some pepperoni and turkey slices on the side for some protein and that's my breakfast. My kids are both Star Wars and Marvel fans. I've seen all the Thor movies for obvious reasons. plus the ones when they all get together. But I can skip the ones in between for each character. I can hear my dd say "Blasphemy". Look how many calories from popcorn I've saved by not going to see these movies. lol

@teresaw1020 In my own experience I have found that it doesn't matter keeping the workout day tied to the color day if that makes sense. I know they do that for energy sake. Thinking I'll have less energy when I eat 100 carbs versus 238 carbs. The important thing for me was to get in the workout when it was convenient to me and my schedule and keep my green days for my social days. It's working. The important thing is that we get our plans to work not that we follow "their" plan to the T. It's been about 25 for me to reach my goal as my youngest is 25. Each year I say to my dd, This is my year. She rolls her eyes and says you say that every year mom. Well, 2019 has been a better year than the rest I will say that. I didn't get consistent until Aug of this year but hey I arrived. Last year I gained 12 lbs between November and December.

@renaegry You'll find your niche. How far are you from goal? An abcessed tooth is much better than a tumor or something else. Now you might have also fixed your TMJ problem. I hope you feel better soon.

Red Day-Stayed OP 93/100 Walked 42 min at the mall.

trooworld

Morning ladies! I got in some activity yesterday as I did some housework and was exhausted by the time meal prep came around. I did put the lentil soup in the crockpot, so at least that got done.

@its_cleo The wildlife photo exhibit sounds interesting. What we saw were a bunch of different photographers with different styles from different eras, kind of the evolution of photography. It was interesting. I am working all of this week, but then my company is shutting down for all of next week and we are being forced to use our vacation time for all of next week except Christmas day which is a freebie. Unfortunately, because I've had to take time off for the condo, I may have to go unpaid for part of the time off.

@TeresaW1020 Yes, at least I got out as so often we just sit in the house and watch tv! I hope we both do, too! I'm sorry to hear you hurt your back, that stinks. I'm glad that everything with the kids went well. I hope your back holds out for the rest.

@renaegry I hope you feel better soon.

@theslightedgeforever Yes, it's a very cool museum and it's donation-based, so even if you are broke you can go and they won't turn you away lol. Yes, it would be great to get in all exercise through incidental movement. I did get in some of that this weekend also on Sunday. I had to work pretty hard on my fridge lol. I really did a good cleaning on it, taking everything out and really deep cleaning it. It had been a while since I had done that.

EMPOWERED.
December goals: track 5 days a week, drink 50 oz of liquids a day, go for a walk 2 times a week, lose 1 lb

mswatson0777

@theslightedgeforever Too funny on the okay boomer! I watch them 4,5,6,1,2,3 since otherwise I'd probably never watch them again since 1 and 2 are so objectively terrible!

@cbabie I hate that when I accidentally delete what I just typed. I started making dog treats instead of cookies a few years ago because I think it makes a unique gift for coworkers and family and doesn't just add to the pile of junk food. They seem to go over very well (and are technically safe for humans to eat...but yuck). I hope you had a fantastic rest of your weekend.

@trooworld I love lentil soup and I appreciate you taking the time to post links to your recipes. I'm going to have to go back in the archives and start making some of them since they sound so delicious! And I am luckily on the mend. My backside is still purple but it doesn't hurt so I'm calling it a win, and I can almost fully extend my elbow.

@joannadavison Spa and gym time sounds fabulous and relaxing! I love that you're carving out time for self-care! Brazilian Jiu Jitsu mostly focuses on fighting on the ground (think wrestling, but with chokes and joint-locks), whereas Judo focuses a lot on fighting standing up, but bringing the fight to the ground (think throws). They're a really good compliment to each other and a lot of fun!

@renaegry It sounds like you have a lot on your plate! Your abscessed tooth sounds so painful! I hope everything goes well this week. Please keep checking in when you can

@its_cleo Luckily it's an exercise that's easily adjustable to everyone's skill and pace so we get folks from every age range and walk of life! Your family dinner sounds like a lot of fun, but it is so hard to stay on track at those. I'm sure the weight will fall off in a few days. I'm from one of the coldest states, so we're already getting single or negative degree temperatures and lots of snow (ugh).

@TeresaW1020 That sounds so painful! I hope your back heals quickly! And it sounds like the little presents were a big hit! You do so many fun activities with the kids, I love it!

So....the rest of the weekend did not go as planned. I ended up having WAY too much fun at 12 Bars (we Lyfted home), which meant I was pretty hungover all Sunday. I basically laid on the couch and ate everything in sight all day instead of doing anything on my to do list. And this week is SO BUSY before we leave for the holidays so I'm not sure when I'll have time to get things done. Amazingly, even after my drink and food-a-polooza hangover day I still lost .5lbs (I thought for sure that scale would be up!). My goal is to hopefully lose another .5lb this week and then maintain the holiday week. I figure it's a modest goal so it makes it more likely that I can hit it.

JoDavo66

@trooworld thank you for the link. The vegetarian lentil chilli sounds nice on your meal prep. I'm going to look at better meals once school holidays start.

@its_cleo I got the 3rd degree over protein shake today- all concerned it was meal replacement. I can imagine any of the gym's flavours tasting good in a cheesecake. I might have to track that down.

@TeresaW1020 ouch! Your poor back. You have my every sympathy there- still struggling with aches &pains from injuries over the years. The Sunday School group sounds great. I love it when kids are so grateful. At school today I shared a bag of chocolate money between 2 girls who produced excellent scientific posters & I got a colleague to choose the best. 1 girls is like a quiet mouse & the other is really loud and often disruptive- so I was chuffed to reward them both.

@renaergy I'm pleased you finally have answer about your jaw. Not the most pleasant thing but at least it's straightforward. After being messed around it must be a relief to have an answer.

@theslightedgeforever we discussed loosing weight & I mentioned the struggle. She asked if I'd considered a group- told her about WW & basically it had stopped working as I'd been successful in past but not now. I explained MFP & what I'd started monitoring with my trainer & she suggested reducing carbs & upping protein more than we already had. Advised to avoid cheese- not cut totally but not use as vegetarian food. Eggs are one of my stapes but again I'm not going above 2/day as high in cholesterol. MiL's doing OK considering. DH at work tomorrow then 4 days paid leave (he's had 1) so he'll go over & try to help out- if his sister will let him!!

@mswatson0777 my youngest fancies doing MMA!! Not sure best idea for her. I can see how they'd be complimentary. Well done on that weight loss despite the food & drink.

I'm feeling quite stuffed. Had Christmas meal with Housegroup- one member is single Mum to young boy so we get takeaways at her house rather than go out & her have to find a babysitter- less stress.
Busy at work trying to get everything sorted before holidays. The kids come back to an exam period mid January so want to make sure they know what to revise in plenty of time. One class complained about holiday homework- as I see them once a week & 1st Monday off is a training day they have 2 weeks school & 2 weks holiday- which I pointed out to them ! 🤣🤣

its_cleo

@TeresaW1020 sorry to hear about your back ouch. I hope it gets better. ...that is such a nice story about the little boy. It's amazing the little things can bring so much happiness.

@theslightedgeforever I can see that telling yourself you can have something tomorrow would work. Lol about Thor. Yeah I like the Thor movies. I like almost all of them though. I don't like serious movies, I just want something light.

@trooworld the museum sounds interesting. I wish I could have been a photographer. That sucks you have to use up your vacation days....and/or not get paid.

@mswatson0777 lol about the hangover! I can relate. I didn;t know what the 12 bars of xmas was...were they actual bars? That's like my hiking club, we drink more than we hike. Or at least the hikes I go on lol.

@joannadavison yeah the recipe was on MFP somewhere in one of the forums. Good luck with the protein. I try to eat a lot of protein myself but I eat meat. I aim for 100-120 grams a day, and fats I end up around 40-60 grams. I really only focus on the proteins though.

Well my grand goals for the week are sort of half accomplished. Yesterday I wanted to do mobility for 45 minutes. I did 20. So that is ok. Where I'm really disappointed was today I wanted to do some bicep/triceo work but I cannot for the life of me find my weights. This of course, is after they sat on my floor next to my couch for months, bc I work out at the gym. I have no idea what I did with them. Will keep looking.

Cals- between yesterday and today I'm 40 over so that;s not too bad. Long day at the office, and in tomorrow too.

renaegry

@theslightedgeforever “Thor” is my absolute favourite. My kids like to joke “mom your boyfriends on tv”. Lol. Yes quite relieved only an abscessed tooth. I still have an open appt booked with specialist just in case after the tooth is pulled the lump doesn’t go away. I’m not really sure in goal weight. Back in the day I wanted 135. My closest was 143. Might be happy if I got down to 140 and just got really toned

And thank you all for your concerns for my jaw and tooth. Hopefully all will get straightened out with pulling it.

Not sure if it’s the pills or I have a touch of the flu but my stomach has been grumbling for 2 days. Definitely not feeling 100%. No exercise today. Not sure about tomorrow. Will see how cold or windy it is while daughter at gym I may try to get in a walk. And hope to hit the weights on Wednesday.

Hope everyone is doing well.

theslightedgeforever

@trooworld That's terrible you have to use your vacation days for "their" time off.

@mswatson0777 Your exercise sounds fun. Well at least 12 bars is over until next year. But the upside is that your weight is still down. Do really good this week so it stays that way. Sometimes we think we get away with it but it's like those pounds are just floating around in space somewhere and we have a good week and BAM the scale is up a lb. I'm like how does that happen? Now I'm learning to say Oh well. What goes up must come down. (compared to my old thinking of if I'm going to gain, then I might as well enjoy myself)

@joannadavison Just keep trying and you will get your meal program all sorted out.

@its_cleo I'm the same way about movies. I just want to be entertained and laugh at stupid stuff. Or the occasional rom com. Did you find your weights? Doing things halfway is better than no way. I'm learning to celebrate any and all progress on this journey.

@renaegry I'm almost finished with my 100 day book and today's reading was about achieving lowest achievable weight and lowest maintable weight.

For lowest achievable weight: If you've been at the same weight for two to three months

Do you want to reduce your calories even more.....
Can you sustain eating 100-200 calories less per day every day
Will cutting calories be healthy for you?

if you answer no to any of these questions, you've found your weight. Stop trying to lose weight and start maintaining.

Determining your lowest maintainable weight:

Can you keep exercising and eating like this for the rest of your life?

If the answer is no then increase your calories slightly and you will gain a bit maybe 3-5 lbs. Then be comfortable with this decision and weight.

If yes, then you have found your magic weight. If the scales shows more than a 2 lb increase then immediately go back and review the basics.

I still have a ways to go before I make this decision but I'm looking at about 135ish.

Red Day- Stayed OP 100/100 carbs. Took it right to the limit today. lol Rest Day for exercise.

trooworld

Hello everyone! This week is going to fly by (at least I hope lol).

@mswatson0777 I'm happy to share! I'm glad you are on the mend. Congrats on the loss! Sometimes there are holiday miracles lol. I think your holiday goals are reasonable and smart.

@joannadavison I really like that vegetarian lentil chili, it's easy to make and is very satisfying even as a meat-eater. Good luck getting everything sorted out before the break, I'm trying to get things done before break, too.

@its_cleo Yeah, I used to do quite a bit of photography when I was younger. It's been a while since I've done it. I used to really enjoy it. Yes, it does suck!!! I calculated my vacation time and it looks like I'm only going to be short by 1 1/2 hours/not get paid 1 1/2 hours. But still, it makes me mad. I hope you find your weights.

@theslightedgeforever I know, right? But I guess at least I still have a job. It's a cost-cutting measure on the company's part.

EMPOWERED.
December goals: track 5 days a week, drink 50 oz of liquids a day, go for a walk 2 times a week, lose 1 lb

TeresaW1020

@renaegry, wow that is crazy about you having an abscessed tooth that has been causing you all the problems. I hope that you find that it was the tooth all along and the specialist will clear you from anything more serious.

@theslightedgeforever, well it is going to be our year one day and we might as well believe and strive for it to be 2020!! You have done amazing this year! I remember your struggles at the end of last year and you are right that we have to make whatever eating plan we chose work for us or we won’t work it. Simple as that! I’m excited to get started on carb cycling and see how it not only works for weight loss but also for my mindset. Tonight, I’m going out to dinner and I’m thinking it’s OK because it’s a high carb day and not me cheating on my diet.

@mswatson0777, losing weight while bar hopping is certainly a nice Christmas present! Good luck on losing another .5 lbs…or more!!

@joannadavison, I have a very disrupted little boy in my Sunday school class so I understand what you mean when I compare him to my sweet boy who is always so helpful and loves learning. It sometimes takes a lot of effort to love him, but I do try my best. I pray a lot for strength and patience. I hope you don’t have too much homework over the holidays!

@its_cleo, did you find your weights? Yesterday, was leg day and the trainer had us using weights the whole time and I used my 10 lbs for all the moves except one. Told hubby that it’s almost time to up the weights. So, he said to price them out and in January I can get a set of 12’s and 15’s. Who the heck am I that I’m excited about getting new weights!

@trooworld, I hope your week flies by too! Do you have all your Christmas shopping done? I still need to find a couple of things for hubby and then I’m done.

Good morning! It's gloomy and rainy so we slept in this morning which was nice. My back was all better yesterday and I was able to do my workout. Today is cardio day and I will do that as soon as I finish my coffee and social media browsing. I have a busy day planned. I need to go grocery shopping and to Khols to hunt down a belt for DH and anything else that I can find for the hardest man on earth to shop for! Then this evening seven of us from ladies Bible study are getting together for dinner at Cracker Barrel and going to see Frozen 2. It should be a great time and since it's my high carb day, I'm NOT going to feel guilty about what I choose to eat. Have a great day!

mswatson0777

@TeresaW1020 Thank you, I hope so too! Sleeping in sounds magical and I'm glad you're back is feeling better.

@trooworld I hope this week flies by, so far it's feeling more like dragging!

@theslightedgeforever You are so right, I definitely need to be extra mindful this week, especially as I go into the holidays. I love the information on lowest achievable weight. In an ideal world I want to be 135, but I'm guessing my actual range is going to be 145-150

@renaegry Sorry to hear you aren't feeling well. Hopefully it straightens out before the holidays

@its_cleo Definitely real bars I was feeling the effects HARD the next day. Sorry to hear your weights have hidden themselves. Hopefully they'll show themselves soon

@joannadavison I'd honestly recommend it for her. It sounds a lot scarier than it is, and it's an amazing workout and a really fun way to stay active. I'm glad the group party went well, I love doing takeout at home instead of having to go to a restaurant, it always feels much more relaxed!

I'm feeling a little more back on track today, although I had to skip my workout yesterday to make that happen which makes me a little grumpy. And I overate (too many bites, licks, and tastes (BLTs) in the kitchen!).

How do you all carve out time for yourselves during the holiday? I know it's the season for family, but since we're travelling over two states in one week, I just feel like the time isn't my own and I'm stressed instead of joyful as I should be.

RetiredAndLovingIt

Hi all---wow, it takes a lot to catch up when I don't keep up everyday!! You guys are a chatty bunch, lol.

@joannadavison Dh & I have protein shakes for breakfast most days. Figured we weren't getting enough protein, so started them. Not sure if I feel any better for it, tho, but they are quick, especially because dh makes them, lol. I would think it would be a challenge to get enough protein on a vegetarian diet, but then my sis that does WFPB says you don't need as much protein as everyone thinks. So many differing opinions on that!

@TeresaW1020 Glad your back is doing better. My dd teaches kindergarten, she could totally understand the difference in kids. I think that age would take more patience than I have. I hope the carb cycling works for you, & glad that you won't feel like you are cheating. I really try to be neutral about food, not good or bad, or cheating or not. I just try to accept that I ate too much, and try to do better. Right now I'm not!

@renaergy Hope that is all that is wrong with your jaw & it soon feels better.

@mswatson0777 Sorry, but I laughed about the bars & the after effects. Guess that is why I pretty much gave up drinking years ago. I was getting enough headaches that I didn't want to be causing them, too.

@itscleo Hope you find your weights.

@trooworld Hope this week flies by for you. I agree, its too bad you have to use vacation days to cover the place being closed!

@theslightedgeforever I think I may look at your carb cycling a little better. You are doing so well with it!! My plan of eating at maintenance this month & using my exercise for the deficit is good in theory, but my exercise has really fallen off, so not working real well. The beginning of the month I had a cold, and last week was trying to cram & make stuff for the craft show we participate in every year. Excuses! I weigh every day, & then add the week & figure the average. So even though my days are up & down, my average still shows a slight downward trend. I also thought the achievable vs maintainable weight thing was interesting. I probably have hit my easiest maintainable weight since I have pretty much been here forever, despite not sticking to my deficit like I should. Not really happy here tho, so keep trying for a little more, even if it takes awhile.

Well, dh is done with the eye drops in first eye & only 2 weeks to go with the second. He has an appt to get them checked this afternoon & then will get glasses. Even though he only needs them for up close, it is frustrating to him to have to put readers on, he feels like he would rather wear them all the time. (he's worn glasses since about age 8, so hard habit to break) Me, on the other hand, never wore them til my 40's, so can't wait for my cataracts to get bad enough that I can quit them, lol.

After Halloween, we were at Sams & they had the BIG container of peanut m&ms for half price. Only $5.50 for them! What a bargain! Ha---They are way too easy to grab a few here & there, so not helping my plan at all. Luckily they are almost gone, so maybe I'll stay in my calorie goal now.

Hope everyone has a great week!

theslightedgeforever

@trooworld Yes, still getting a paycheck is a good thing. You'll have lots of free time to exercise and get on the bike. I'm going to make your vegetarian lentil chili on Thursday. Sounds so yummy. Plus some cornbread with it.

@teresaw1020 I think my mindset change has been the biggest thing this year. Just the feeling you get from thinking it's OK versus I'm cheating. Cheating usually means something morally bad. Then we start to beat ourselves up; on the other hand just staying within food boundaries makes you feel good. I read a line in a book the other day.....People think it's motivation that leads to success but really it's success that leads to motivation. So I'm starting to find success in the little things. It builds an I can do this mindset. The trick is to remember it's not a free day. You still have to stay within the boundaries for the day. Plus I watch my calories and keep those in range too for the most part. I love getting new gym equipment. Now actually using it is a different story.......I'll get there. I still have a Bosu ball that I haven't used. I bought it in 2012.

@mswatson0777 I have know I idea what my range will be at the end of this journey. I don't want to look old and haggard. But I would like to get my nice cheekbones back. I haven't seen those in YEARS. I'll get bigger eyes too. Cause now the chubby cheeks make them smaller. The bad thing will be my nose will appear larger on my smaller face. lol Oh well, can't have everything. In the holiday season of hustle and bustle I think find moments where YOU control it and do little special things for yourself even if it's just 10 min. We all are the masters of our own time but guilt, duty, etc make us do things and then get stressed out about them. Would it be easier next year if they came to you?

@retiredandlovingit I gave up years ago trying to get in "enough" protein. I'm still losing weight. I don't really like protein powders nor smoothies. I tried that. So I just switched my focus. One day I might come to a place where my body says I need more protein and I'll figure it out then. I like your thoughts regarding neutral foods-no good or bad. yes we ate too much or we didn't. I have lots of "theories" that didn't work out well. lol So the past is the past and just start over today and exercise. A downward trend is a good thing. I use Happy Scale app. I don't know if it's compatible with your phone or not. I weigh daily and enter it and it shows the trend line in red or green. I'm happy to say I've been in the green for almost 5 months now. Glasses: I fall into the category of only need glasses for distance but then I need readers but I won't get bifocals as I don't want to wear glasses all the time. lol

So to keep in tradition with the other members of this group falling.....I fell out of bed this morning. The alarm went off, I flipped over like I always do but this time I met air. Luckily nothing was broken except I cracked my Versa fitbit. I landed on my knees so they are bruised and sore. Plus my back hurt. I knocked over a cup of water so my hubby says from his side of the bed, You okay? I answer, I don't know. It was pitch black and I'm on the floor in a puddle of water. lol Good news was the cup didn't break. So I didn't cut myself on top of everything else.
It was supposed to be a step aerobic day but knees were hurting so I gave that up and just did some weights and walking. Yaaay. Old slightedge would have used it as an excuse to not exercise.

Low Yellow Day- Stayed OP 145/150 carbs Weights 17 min Walking 23 min

December goals: Step class and strength training 2 times a week. 4.5 glasses of water.

trooworld

Good morning ladies! I have an early day today, but I get off early, so that's good. Because of the condo, we haven't done any Christmas shopping and won't do anything until we hear who has to pay for the damage. They are scheduling some sort of test hopefully for next week to see if the windows leak.

@TeresaW1020 lol...it's funny you asked that, see above. When we finally do Christmas shop, it's going to end up being gift cards out of convenience. I'm so glad to hear your back is better! I hope you had a great day yesterday and enjoyed the movie and Cracker Barrel!

@mswatson0777 I agree!!! How do you carve out time for yourself? You put it on the calendar, even if it is just 10 minutes.

@RetiredAndLovingIt Lol we are! You are missing out! lol Thank you, me too and yes it stinks I have to use my vacation days. Boo! I can understand your DH's frustration at only having to wear glasses when he reads, that would be a pain. Get rid of those peanut M&Ms! lol

@theslightedgeforever Cornbread with the chili sounds good. I plan on going for some walks when I'm off. Geez, you fell too? I'm so glad you are mostly okay. Do take care! Good for you for exercising anyway!

EMPOWERED.
December goals: track 5 days a week, drink 50 oz of liquids a day, go for a walk 2 times a week, lose 1 lb

mswatson0777

@RetiredandLovingIt My Dad used to wear: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001EPRZIA/ref=psdc_3779821_t1_B002B8RF1Q for reading glasses, your spouse might like them too! That way they're always "there". And this yearly event reminds me why I stick to 2 glasses of wine max for the rest of the year!

@theslightedgeforever Sadly due to age/disability/financial circumstances we're always the ones who travel to others. I love your idea of carving out the small moments, I've started a list of places I can escape too when I need some time away (I think I'll be getting a lot of gym time in next week!). I'm so sorry to hear about your fall! We really are on a roll in this group with accidental injuries. I hope your knees/back start feeling better.

@trooworld Great suggestion, I'll start planning accordingly! I hope you hear back soon about the condo, that is so frustrating!

I think I'm Murphy's Law lately. I was driving up to go meet my Mom for a holiday dinner and my car started making an awful rattling noise. I had to drive 30mph all the way back to my town with my flashers on and drop it off at the mechanics (yay unexpected holiday bill). My partner picked me up and I just burst into tears. This will be the first holiday without my father here, and thanks to the car I'm missing time with my mom too. I feel a little melodramatic, but it was definitely how I was feeling in the moment. We're looking to move things around so we can find a different time to get together, but it's just frustrating. I wasn't expecting to be hit by a wave of grief this far ahead of the holiday, I'm definitely feeling the big feels and it's adding to my holiday stress big time.