Kicking *kitten* In Our Twenties! - November Challenge

GuamGrly

Aly - great job on the half marathon!! Each and everyday you girls inspire me to start running. Hopefully I can shake this cold soon and start out small. I want to do a 5k next year.

TJ - can't wait to check out your before and after pics. I think I will work in my before pics now.

finn - great job on not falling off the wagon and just being done with it!! You are picking yourself back up after being sick and ready to face this head on again!

meggonkgonk

I have pics on my profile, but I suck at getting them to post in the forum. But every month or so I put up a new pic or two, so I can see the progression.

rai8759

ate a bunch of crap today... no excuse. just didn't leave myself enough time or energy to plan and beyond that gave in to some cravings. i really feel sick to my stomach right now from what I just ate.. bleh.

The good news is that I logged EVERYTHING I ate...That is kind of a personal victory for me. Also I ate 498 calories above my goal (so I'll be able to work that out tomorrow).

I haven't been grocery shopping in waaay to long. need to go tomorrow morning. planning on making a meal plan either tonight or in the morning. Still feeling under the weather. Hoping that a good long Nyquil induced sleep tonight will make me feel worlds better in the morning - I haven't been getting the kind of sleep I need lately. Going back to work on Monday for the next three nights which means i may not be posting for awhile. Being at work isn't terrible because I drink a lot of water and they have healthy food in the cafeteria even if I don't bring good snacks.

Everyone keep doing your best! If y'all do I know it will motivate me to do mine!

Much Love,
Rachel

sophieg77

Hello everyone

I'm back. I've had a rough couple of weeks full of self-doubt, self-loathing, laziness, anxiety and feeling the weight (literally and metaphorically) of the pressure I was putting myself under. I commttied to too much, gym, running regime, swimming, dancing, push ups, dvds, I didn't eat nearly enough. I tried to cook everything, prepare for everything, not trusting myself, i drank so much water I was gagging on it. I said yes to everything exercise wise and then would beat myself up if I forgot to go do sit ups, or didn't do the 30 day shred after walking 10 miles... like i said, too much!

but i won't let my negativity bring everyone down. I'ts great to be back, I'm looking forward to feeling good about myself and am so excited to see so many new faces to this great support group.

I thankfully seemed to have maintained while I have been away which means I wasn't too far off my goals for October challenge I've just had my 2 litres of water for the day and am starting to flush out some of the horrible things i did to my body in my depression.

Congrats to everyone who acheived their goals for october and I hope everyone is well on track for November. not sure what my goals are this month but maybe just 'keep positive' ahah

love you all

Sophie

meagalayne

Quick update (because it's nearly 4am already... where has my day gone?)

Melissa - Lime Chicken Tacos? Need I say more... That sounds amazing! Where did you get the recipe? I made lime, garlic and cilantro baked tilapia tonight with a rustic white bean and cumin mash and steamed veggies. So, so good. LOVE food. I have no idea how I managed to lose weight... hahaha

Sophie - It's great to have you back! This journey can definitely be overwhelming and it can be hard to cope when you feel like you are letting yourself down (even though realistically you are still kicking *kitten*). It's great to hear that you maintained! Just start out a bit slower, give yourself the credit you deserve and a break every once in a while if you falter, and keep your chin up. Look forward to seeing your progress in Nov/Dec and onward. :flowerforyou:

Rai - Great job logging. 500 cals over probably puts you near your actual burn for the day (if you have your weight-loss set to 1lb per week) so you likely ate to maintain today. Nothing that can't be undone! Burn it tomorrow and you are back on track :bigsmile: The fact that you logged and kept yourself accountable is a major victory. Good luck on your nights and see you when you get back! Hope you are feeling better <<hugs>>

Everyone else... WRT my friend situation, the worst culprit is my closest friend from Uni whom I have known for about 7 years and whom I lived with for quite some time. She is INTIMATELY aware of my dedication to improved nutrition and health, running and general fitness and has been informed on multiple occasions that A) this is not a diet, and never has been I am very aware of how much I eat, and that in order to train and run I need to consume enough calories to fuel my body, and C) my weight has steadily decreased by less than a pound a week over 14 months, so it's nothing drastic or unhealthy, and it's incredibly offensive for her to suggest otherwise. I have made it very clear on several occasions that my weight is absolutely none of her business. I am healthy and fit and I don't need her telling the whole world about how much "fatter" I used to be to make herself feel less uncomfortable about her own weight gain. It's a very immature practice and it is incredibly uncomfortable for me, because I don't think that it's her place to tell anyone how much I weigh or used to weigh (yes, in pounds!). Furthermore, even if she is just exaggerating in jest about my having an eating disorder or being "obsessed", it's a really serious accusation and it demonstrates to me that she actually has not been paying attention at ALL to the changes in my life. I am healthier than I have ever been and anyone who knows me can easily see that. I am offended by it because I work really hard at living healthy most of the time and for that to be completely overlooked because I have lost weight seems like an effort to minimize any sense of accomplishment I may have about my progress to make herself feel better.

Roo - I think you are right on the money, unfortunately. I have very little patience for this kind of immature and hurtful behaviour, especially after having spoken to her about it multiple times. I certainly do not need to be surrounding myself with people who are unable to support me because my choices make them feel insecure. I am so thankful for MFP and my friends on here. You are all making this journey SO much easier!! :smooched:

Speaking of healthy living... I am officially back on track tomorrow! WI tomorrow morning and it won't be pretty. Hoping not to binge/emotionally eat after seeing the number on the scale. Am running in the afternoon and will be hanging around at night. Hopefully can stay away from the fridge! hehe Will update tomorrow after the weigh-in. Thanks for listening, everyone. So much love!!

-Meag

tjradd73

FINN-thanks for saying so!!! didn't realize the diff till i posted them on mfp!! I think its a great idea to do pics/measurements each month!!

emmyworthy

Hi friends=]

Well I'm very disappointed with myself. Didn't manage to make it swimming once last week, went out for a friends birthday on saturday night and got WASTED, had a big mac because I was drunk and thought it was a good idea and then for the first time since starting MFP I didn't log my foods yesterday so I was probably over. To be honest the whole week has been a shambles and therefore I wasn't surprised to see a 3lb gain on the scale this morning. Even though I wasn't surprised it doesn't mean I'm not ashamed. I made a concious decision to **** up everything I've achieved so far and it makes me soooooo mad at myself. Why did I do it???!!! I've got all you wonderful people doing such a good job of meeting your goals and I'm just not pulling my weight.
Rant Over.

This week I am going to do everything I can to lose those 3lbs so that I'm back on track for meeting my goal of 199lbs for this month. Two weigh ins left in this month for me and I will swim 3 times this week and 3 times next week to ensure I meet my goals!!

I am going to make the effort to read everyone's comments on this thread every night and actually respond rather than selfishly go on about myself, which I'm sure no-one is that interested in since my life is boring as hell!!!

Help me get back on track girlies!!! I need you all more than ever, since I'm feeling so lousy about gaining 3lbs in one short week=[

Emmy

miss_amy

Hey all! Hope everyone had a great weekend! I had quite a busy one and wasn't able to log into MFP all weekend, but I lost another pound on weigh-in day Saturday! Woo hoo! Only 1.6lbs til I make my November goal & hit 25lbs! YAY! I'm hoping to hit that this week if all goes well!

Keep kickin *kitten*!!!!!!

Kattungen: To lose 5 lbs Starting at 188.5 - want 183.5 by December 1st!
kvr413: lose 10 lbs, thanksgiving included, which will put me at 169!
Meggonkgonk: To reach 157 lbs & to run the first 2 weeks of my 10k running program (mileage13-14 and 15-16)
Emmyworthy: To reach 199lbs, swim 3 times a week, lose 8 inches over all with 1 inch coming from my upper arms.- OMG down 7lbs in the first week of November! What the hell!!!hahaha! Only 3lbs to go before I'm 199lbs=]
ksv123: to lose 3 pounds (yes, including Thanksgiving!!), and ramp up my workout routine that I have managed to ignore lately. The workout will include a minimum of 4 days a week of either elliptical or 30 Day Shred.
GuamGrly (Bethany) - To lose 5 pounds and work out at least 2 times per week.
meagalayne- To reach 130lbs, complete weeks 2 and 3 of the push-up challenge at my own pace, and run my 8k (Nov 13) under 50 mins -- MET! Chip time: 49:47.4
LostAlyKat (Aly) - To lose 6lbs from 172.6, follow my prescribed food plan, and workout 6 days a week!
Tjradd73-to lose 9.6lbs, and to continue on with the push-up challenge
allislefttogain: Maintain (120-125 range); no scale until December 1st; 2 days a week with strength/body weight training; run 3-4x a week and run my 10K in 56 minutes or under (be happy with 59:01 or under though!)
rai8759: loose 3 lbs by Thanksgiving, 5 lbs in total/workout 3x a week 60-90 minutes/5K in 30 min or less/be true to food diary even if i miss a day get right back into it the next day!!
tai_88: to lose 5 lbs, stopping eating candy for the month and continue working out at least 4 times a week.
wardiemelissa-my goal is to lose my last 0.5 pounds (taking me to 125 pounds-my wedding weight from 7 years and 2 kids ago), to maintain my weight, continue with my exercise routine (running 3-4 days and strength on off days) and finish my first 10K under 75 minutes on Thanksgiving Day!!!
spellbinder - Reach 146lbs, exercise 5 days a week, do strength training + crunches + squats 3 days a week, ensure that I don't put on any weight during thanksgiving week!!
SkierElle- reach 180lbs/exercise every day/limit sweets and desserts (apart from Thanksgiving)
ttaylortulsa: 8 lbs for month - C25K training 3 days/wk - 30 Day Shred (or equivalent) 2 days/week - YBB vid 1 day/week
allie7383: to get into the 150's (6.5 lbs away!), workout 6 days a week, and increase my water intake.
inskydiamonds: (November 1-14): eat vegetables with dinner every night / lose about 5 pounds (November 15-28): make low(er) cal Thanksgiving dishes. Lose at least 4 pounds.
mcanals123: To drop down to 165 and break my plateau :-)
finncmh: Lose 1 pound a week- bringing me to 198 by end of the month. Full body lifting routine two days a week. Get to spinning class at least two times a week.
miss_amy: lose a total of 25lbs, work out 5x a week & eat more fiber & protein. -1.6lbs to go!
purpleprose: lose 5 pounds from 10/29 weight, run the whole 5K on Thanksgiving (no walking), and to eat organic, whole foods at least 60% of the time
oreganoqueen: brave the gym at least once a week & eat more protein
coatadaycarrie: finally get down to 145, and to work out at least 5x a week for at least half an hour each time.
lauratx22-lose 8 pds! starting weight 190..now 188.5!
ottawagirl613: lose 5 pounds to get me halfway to my goal weight of 130 pounds by christmas! also to complete my 15 mins a day of toning exercises EVERY DAY ! (and squeeze in a few 15-30 min walks a few times a week)
stuartme123: lose 4 pounds, workout at the gym or attend yoga class lasting 30+ min, 3x a week, keep unhealthy snacking to under 200 calories/day - this includes YOU potato chips!!!
CraftyGirl4 - Do all the P90X workouts for this month (maybe taking off Thanksgiving Day). Not to step on the scale until Decemeber 1st, 2010.
vbos~ lose 8lbs, 8 cups of H2O a day, run/elliptical 4x/week, strength train 3x/week, 5k Turkey Trot in 30mins, oh and drink alcohol only once a week!!
cruan - Stick to my 2 shakes a day, really watch my calories so I don't go over, lose 5-7 pounds, somehow fit some exercise into the craziness that is my life!
lolahippie-to lose 5lbs!
Roobean33- to lose 4 pounds and tone up - and bring my hubby along for the ride!
emmarie1630- lose 5 pounds, 3x a week workout, more veggies
AshleyVeronica - lose 4lbs, DRINK less calories, monitor what I eat everyday...no holding back, stop eating after 9pm unless it's a weekend
trebhun - lose 4lbs, and work out more, start exercising again after knee scope surgery (last Thurs 11/4)
francesstewart1 - lose 3lbs (and join the Dec challenge!)

tjradd73

emmy-come on girl...STAY FOCUSED!!! you can do it!!!! get right back on track, we are almost halfway done with the month!!! you can lose those 3lbs easy and plus more!!! you can do it!!!

amy-congrats ahead of time for reaching your Nov goal!! you got this!!

meagalayne

Em - Don't beat yourself up, girl! After a week with a 7lbs (!!!!) loss, that 3lbs is likely just your body rebounding. 7lbs is a LOT to be losing in a week, so it's possible that your body is just going through a bit of shock and storing. Steady and healthy weight loss over time should be the goal to keep it off, so if you are zigzagging up and down a lot from week to week, just try to focus on the longer term. In retrospect, 4lbs lost in 2 weeks is a VERY impressive feat. You are doing this - don't lose sight of your accomplishments :happy:

Make sure you get your swims in this week because they are important to you in feeling good about your progress - If you feel like you've let yourself down by not swimming all week, then you need to make sure you get your swims in! There are so many other positive benefits to regular exercise, including boosting your mood and your morale with regards to weight-loss. And you always feel better once you get a good burn! This is important to you so make time for it. Making time for yourself and your health is the first step toward adoptive a manageable lifestyle that will have you losing/maintaining weight over time and keep you fit and HAPPY!

AFM -- Weighed-in this morning and it looks like I did better on my trip than I imagined... Despite all the pizza (ugh) and ice cream that we consumed, I only gained 1.3lbs by Thurs morning. As of today, I am down 2.2lbs, for a net weekly loss of 0.9lbs. Losing 0.9lbs on a vacation week is pretty stellar, IMO, so I am REALLY happy with myself. :bigsmile: :bigsmile: :bigsmile: Pretty sure my race weekend helped, although I ate a ton and had ice cream yet again last night... I really need to speak to someone about keeping ice cream out of the house (and my bfs house...) :grumble: I have absolutely no self-control around the stuff! Taking a slow run today to stretch out the muscles and working on W3 of the push-ups challenge.

Two weeks left in Nov ladies (and 1 day, I think) -- Let's make it count! Lots can happen in 15 days :happy:
-Meag

emmyworthy

Congraaaaatulations Amy=] You are amazing!!! Keep it up because you are doing so well!!!

Tara and Meag- Thanks for the words of encouragement. It did run through my mind that I lost a bit too much the week before and that maybe my body is telling me to take the weight loss a bit slower! Today has been very good so far and I'm hoping tonight (which is when I always lose focus) I can stay away from snacking too much! Only 5lbs until im at 200 so I'm keeping that in the front of my mind.

Carrying forward that positive frame of mind.... my Jillian Michaels 30 day shred DVD arrived today and I'm so excited to try it out!! It's only 20 minutes long so it'll easily slot into my life=] I'm going to attempt to do it at least 3 times this week along with the 3 swims I'm hoping to get in. At this rate those 3 pesky pounds which won't have crept back on will be history=]

Tara- you're pictures are amazing girl!! You seriously look like a different person!! You're an inspiration!

Meag- Don't worry about the ice cream obsession.... you still lose weight so keep eat up girly!! Congrats on managing to lose even after you're trip. Keep up the running!!!!

Emmy

meagalayne

1) Half Marathon... Still on the fence. Honestly, I have rarely had doubts about my ability to train and reach my goals but ATM I feel like a half is REALLY pushing my limits. I am just not sure my body can run that far and I am worried about registering and then bailing on it because I don't think I can finish in the weeks leading up to the race... This is obviously all mental. I need to psych myself up for it, commit and just get it done. No excuses.

Meag- two questions about the Half- 1) Have you found a training program? 2) When is the last date to register for the race?

~Gonk

Gonk - Just saw this again and realized I didn't address it - No, haven't chosen a training program yet. Wonder what my options are and what people would recommend? For my 10k I used Hal Higdon, but that's not quite as comprehensive a plan as I would like for Half- training... I will have to "shop around".
Looks as though I can register as late as mid-May, so I am definitely going to wait a while regardless. I just don't want it to fill up and for me to miss out on the opportunity. The other concern is that I won't have the money or time to make the trip to Ottawa (6 hours from here) on that weekend... But I should be able to work around that since it it important to me.
Thanks for responding and showing interest, Gonkers :happy: You're the best!

stuartme123

I say this every time that I post, but I really need to do a better job keeping up with this thread. You ladies are just too awesome!!

@Emmy, I agree with Meag, you've accomplished a lot and you should be first and foremost, proud of that! It is likely that the weight fluctuation is your body balancing itself out. None of us are perfect, and you shouldn't be under any pressure to believe that you can't make a mistake every once in a while. I believe in you!! And the fact that you're venting and telling us about Saturday night is a good sign because it shows that you are serious about making this lifestyle change! Cheer up, girlie, and I have confidence that you will get in your swims this week :bigsmile:

@Meag, AMESOME job on staying on track during your trip!!! And everyone's got their Achilles heel of food - I've tried cutting mine out, and it doesn't work for me, so I go with the portion control approach. Don't feel bad about the ice cream, I know you make room for it!

@Amy, woooowoooot! Keep it up, girl!

@Sophie, welcome back :happy: especially after a rough few weeks. We're all here for you because as much as you may have some self-doubt, we don't doubt your ability to kick *kitten* at all!

@Tjradd73, checked out your before and after pics, and :noway: what a difference!! You are beautiful and such an inspiration :flowerforyou:

@Finn, your mindset is admirable! You absolutely need to be your biggest supporter. That's why I'm on this site - it helps me stay accountable to myself, because I find that I'm the easiest person in the world for me to lie to. Down with self-sabotage!! So glad you're feeling better :bigsmile: !!

I'll try to be back later with some updates about myself. Rockclimbing this afternoon! Hoping that my shoulder is up to it. It's been feeling better, but it wasn't exactly happy with me by the end of my pushup sets last night.

meggonkgonk

Well the reason I ask- and I know this wouldn't be the same at all as having someone do it with you in person- but I'm about halfway thru 10k (I'm using the Hal Higdon too) but if you are going to start training the half in the New year- I could proly keep up with you mostly in a training program. I'm still painfully slow, but I could do (or try to do) the same week's workouts if it would help to have someone traversing it with you. In all honesty, its one of the next steps for me so if synching up our routine a little would help you keep going I'm totally down.

Checked out the Warrior Dash site and if I'm super honest it's a couple of solid steps out of my typical comfort zone...That being said I'm really tempted/intrigued (I've been feeling kind of boring lately) and the boy and I are talking over logistics - mostly getting there as neither of us has a car. But it is being given serious consideration. :drinker:

meagalayne

Well the reason I ask- and I know this wouldn't be the same at all as having someone do it with you in person- but I'm about halfway thru 10k (I'm using the Hal Higdon too) but if you are going to start training the half in the New year- I could proly keep up with you mostly in a training program. I'm still painfully slow, but I could do (or try to do) the same week's workouts if it would help to have someone traversing it with you. In all honesty, its one of the next steps for me so if synching up our routine a little would help you keep going I'm totally down.

Checked out the Warrior Dash site and if I'm super honest it's a couple of solid steps out of my typical comfort zone...That being said I'm really tempted/intrigued (I've been feeling kind of boring lately) and the boy and I are talking over logistics - mostly getting there as neither of us has a car. But it is being given serious consideration. :drinker:

WRT the Warrior Dash - It's like 6-7 months away, so logistics can be sorted out if you are really interested. We live a good 6-7 hours away and are hoping to drive down for the weekend, but cost and lodging is a complete unknown right now... We'll just figure it out eventually! It's totally out of my comfort zone too... As pathetic as it is to admit, I hate being dirty! hahah I am a neurotic hand-washer and crawling through mud sounds incredibly unpleasant, but I think that if I just run with it I could have loads of fun and it would be a blast to do with the boy :bigsmile: It would be great to arrange for a meet up and race together if we could in the new year. It would be amazing to do something crazy and fun like that with one of my best girls from MFP! :drinker:

If you are interested in training for a half starting in Jan, I would TOTALLY love to follow the same program as you! Even if we aren't at exactly the same pace it won't really matter. Just following the same program and keeping each other on track will be super motivating. I would definitely be down for that! We should check out what is available and figure something out for January... I'll do some research this week and we can discuss! Lots of time to come up with something. So exciting :bigsmile:

-Meag

meggonkgonk

To January then! We can def look at a bunch of training programs- like I said, I should be through 10k by mid-december so January is perfect. Any of our vets have suggestions?

I am thinking I will try the Warrior Dash, but again, as so much of my ability to do it will depend on the boy (who despite his obvious to me reticence is trying REALLY hard to be enthusiastic and encourage me to do it) concrete decisions will have to wait until his semester is through and we can really take time to look at what it will cost and who's transport we can borrow(/how much it will cost to rent). But I feel like I am leaning toward like 65% yes right now, maybe more.

Peace.
~Gonk

seripha

I'd like to get involved but it's almost half way through november. Can I still get involved?

GuamGrly

Rachel - great job with logging your food!! I try to still log my food when I know that I have gone over my calories so that I am still being honest with myself and keeping myself accountable. I just need to get better about logging my food on the weekends. I do much better when its just my kids and I because then I am deciding what we will be eating!

Sophie - Welcome Back!! Sounds like you should have come back sooner though. Don't beat yourself up and anytime you start feeling like that, you should definitely log into MFP and let us know what you are thinking and feeling. If no one else will tell you what you need to hear, you should know that all of the ladies in this thread will have your back!!

Emmy - don't beat yourself up!! We all have good days and bad days!! Some are more frequent than others but its how we choose to learn from them that matters. This week should be great for you!! Have fun with your 30 day shred and swimming!

Amy - great job on the weight loss!! Sounds like you are definitely on track to meet your November goal!!

And Meag and Tara - saw your before and after pics!! Grea job ladies!! You added more fuel to my fire of inspiration and motivation. I am determined this week. I am going to sit down during my lunchbreak and plan out a meal plan for my kids and I this week. I am going to do this and NO ONE is gonna stop me!!

Happy Monday ladies and Happy Losing!!

meggonkgonk

seripha: No prob- just come up with some goals for november- pop your name at the bottom of the list below and then just come back and update us on how you're doing. We'll surely do something for Dec too, so it's fine to just have 1/2 way goals. In fact, since it's the mid month- I'm going to update my goals as well. You can ignore the quotes, it's just so I can highlight my changes.


Kattungen: To lose 5 lbs Starting at 188.5 - want 183.5 by December 1st!
kvr413: lose 10 lbs, thanksgiving included, which will put me at 169!

Orig 157 was my goal, but adjusting after hitting 158 last week.
Meggonkgonk: To reach 155 lbs & to run the first 2 weeks of my 10k running program (mileage13-14 and 15-16)

Emmyworthy: To reach 199lbs, swim 3 times a week, lose 8 inches over all with 1 inch coming from my upper arms.- OMG down 7lbs in the first week of November! What the hell!!!hahaha! Only 3lbs to go before I'm 199lbs=]
ksv123: to lose 3 pounds (yes, including Thanksgiving!!), and ramp up my workout routine that I have managed to ignore lately. The workout will include a minimum of 4 days a week of either elliptical or 30 Day Shred.
GuamGrly (Bethany) - To lose 5 pounds and work out at least 2 times per week.
meagalayne- To reach 130lbs, complete weeks 2 and 3 of the push-up challenge at my own pace, and run my 8k (Nov 13) under 50 mins -- MET! Chip time: 49:47.4
LostAlyKat (Aly) - To lose 6lbs from 172.6, follow my prescribed food plan, and workout 6 days a week!
Tjradd73-to lose 9.6lbs, and to continue on with the push-up challenge
allislefttogain: Maintain (120-125 range); no scale until December 1st; 2 days a week with strength/body weight training; run 3-4x a week and run my 10K in 56 minutes or under (be happy with 59:01 or under though!)
rai8759: loose 3 lbs by Thanksgiving, 5 lbs in total/workout 3x a week 60-90 minutes/5K in 30 min or less/be true to food diary even if i miss a day get right back into it the next day!!
tai_88: to lose 5 lbs, stopping eating candy for the month and continue working out at least 4 times a week.
wardiemelissa-my goal is to lose my last 0.5 pounds (taking me to 125 pounds-my wedding weight from 7 years and 2 kids ago), to maintain my weight, continue with my exercise routine (running 3-4 days and strength on off days) and finish my first 10K under 75 minutes on Thanksgiving Day!!!
spellbinder - Reach 146lbs, exercise 5 days a week, do strength training + crunches + squats 3 days a week, ensure that I don't put on any weight during thanksgiving week!!
SkierElle- reach 180lbs/exercise every day/limit sweets and desserts (apart from Thanksgiving)
ttaylortulsa: 8 lbs for month - C25K training 3 days/wk - 30 Day Shred (or equivalent) 2 days/week - YBB vid 1 day/week
allie7383: to get into the 150's (6.5 lbs away!), workout 6 days a week, and increase my water intake.
inskydiamonds: (November 1-14): eat vegetables with dinner every night / lose about 5 pounds (November 15-28): make low(er) cal Thanksgiving dishes. Lose at least 4 pounds.
mcanals123: To drop down to 165 and break my plateau :-)
finncmh: Lose 1 pound a week- bringing me to 198 by end of the month. Full body lifting routine two days a week. Get to spinning class at least two times a week.
miss_amy: lose a total of 25lbs, work out 5x a week & eat more fiber & protein. -1.6lbs to go!
purpleprose: lose 5 pounds from 10/29 weight, run the whole 5K on Thanksgiving (no walking), and to eat organic, whole foods at least 60% of the time
oreganoqueen: brave the gym at least once a week & eat more protein
coatadaycarrie: finally get down to 145, and to work out at least 5x a week for at least half an hour each time.
lauratx22-lose 8 pds! starting weight 190..now 188.5!
ottawagirl613: lose 5 pounds to get me halfway to my goal weight of 130 pounds by christmas! also to complete my 15 mins a day of toning exercises EVERY DAY ! (and squeeze in a few 15-30 min walks a few times a week)
stuartme123: lose 4 pounds, workout at the gym or attend yoga class lasting 30+ min, 3x a week, keep unhealthy snacking to under 200 calories/day - this includes YOU potato chips!!!
CraftyGirl4 - Do all the P90X workouts for this month (maybe taking off Thanksgiving Day). Not to step on the scale until Decemeber 1st, 2010.
vbos~ lose 8lbs, 8 cups of H2O a day, run/elliptical 4x/week, strength train 3x/week, 5k Turkey Trot in 30mins, oh and drink alcohol only once a week!!
cruan - Stick to my 2 shakes a day, really watch my calories so I don't go over, lose 5-7 pounds, somehow fit some exercise into the craziness that is my life!
lolahippie-to lose 5lbs!
Roobean33- to lose 4 pounds and tone up - and bring my hubby along for the ride!
emmarie1630- lose 5 pounds, 3x a week workout, more veggies
AshleyVeronica - lose 4lbs, DRINK less calories, monitor what I eat everyday...no holding back, stop eating after 9pm unless it's a weekend
trebhun - lose 4lbs, and work out more, start exercising again after knee scope surgery (last Thurs 11/4)
francesstewart1 - lose 3lbs (and join the Dec challenge!)

meagalayne

I'd like to get involved but it's almost half way through november. Can I still get involved?

Of course! Copy and paste the goals list and add yours to the end, then just keep us updated on your progress, and post any questions or advice or anything else that you want to get off your chest!! It's a totally open forum. We post about anything and everything and the group is incredibly supportive! It's great to have new folks join in :happy: Welcome!

seripha

Kattungen: To lose 5 lbs Starting at 188.5 - want 183.5 by December 1st!
kvr413: lose 10 lbs, thanksgiving included, which will put me at 169!
Meggonkgonk: To reach 157 lbs & to run the first 2 weeks of my 10k running program (mileage13-14 and 15-16)
Emmyworthy: To reach 199lbs, swim 3 times a week, lose 8 inches over all with 1 inch coming from my upper arms.- OMG down 7lbs in the first week of November! What the hell!!!hahaha! Only 3lbs to go before I'm 199lbs=]
ksv123: to lose 3 pounds (yes, including Thanksgiving!!), and ramp up my workout routine that I have managed to ignore lately. The workout will include a minimum of 4 days a week of either elliptical or 30 Day Shred.
GuamGrly (Bethany) - To lose 5 pounds and work out at least 2 times per week.
meagalayne- To reach 130lbs, complete weeks 2 and 3 of the push-up challenge at my own pace, and run my 8k (Nov 13) under 50 mins -- MET! Chip time: 49:47.4
LostAlyKat (Aly) - To lose 6lbs from 172.6, follow my prescribed food plan, and workout 6 days a week!
Tjradd73-to lose 9.6lbs, and to continue on with the push-up challenge
allislefttogain: Maintain (120-125 range); no scale until December 1st; 2 days a week with strength/body weight training; run 3-4x a week and run my 10K in 56 minutes or under (be happy with 59:01 or under though!)
rai8759: loose 3 lbs by Thanksgiving, 5 lbs in total/workout 3x a week 60-90 minutes/5K in 30 min or less/be true to food diary even if i miss a day get right back into it the next day!!
tai_88: to lose 5 lbs, stopping eating candy for the month and continue working out at least 4 times a week.
wardiemelissa-my goal is to lose my last 0.5 pounds (taking me to 125 pounds-my wedding weight from 7 years and 2 kids ago), to maintain my weight, continue with my exercise routine (running 3-4 days and strength on off days) and finish my first 10K under 75 minutes on Thanksgiving Day!!!
spellbinder - Reach 146lbs, exercise 5 days a week, do strength training + crunches + squats 3 days a week, ensure that I don't put on any weight during thanksgiving week!!
SkierElle- reach 180lbs/exercise every day/limit sweets and desserts (apart from Thanksgiving)
ttaylortulsa: 8 lbs for month - C25K training 3 days/wk - 30 Day Shred (or equivalent) 2 days/week - YBB vid 1 day/week
allie7383: to get into the 150's (6.5 lbs away!), workout 6 days a week, and increase my water intake.
inskydiamonds: (November 1-14): eat vegetables with dinner every night / lose about 5 pounds (November 15-28): make low(er) cal Thanksgiving dishes. Lose at least 4 pounds.
mcanals123: To drop down to 165 and break my plateau :-)
finncmh: Lose 1 pound a week- bringing me to 198 by end of the month. Full body lifting routine two days a week. Get to spinning class at least two times a week.
miss_amy: lose a total of 25lbs, work out 5x a week & eat more fiber & protein. -1.6lbs to go!
purpleprose: lose 5 pounds from 10/29 weight, run the whole 5K on Thanksgiving (no walking), and to eat organic, whole foods at least 60% of the time
oreganoqueen: brave the gym at least once a week & eat more protein
coatadaycarrie: finally get down to 145, and to work out at least 5x a week for at least half an hour each time.
lauratx22-lose 8 pds! starting weight 190..now 188.5!
ottawagirl613: lose 5 pounds to get me halfway to my goal weight of 130 pounds by christmas! also to complete my 15 mins a day of toning exercises EVERY DAY ! (and squeeze in a few 15-30 min walks a few times a week)
stuartme123: lose 4 pounds, workout at the gym or attend yoga class lasting 30+ min, 3x a week, keep unhealthy snacking to under 200 calories/day - this includes YOU potato chips!!!
CraftyGirl4 - Do all the P90X workouts for this month (maybe taking off Thanksgiving Day). Not to step on the scale until Decemeber 1st, 2010.
vbos~ lose 8lbs, 8 cups of H2O a day, run/elliptical 4x/week, strength train 3x/week, 5k Turkey Trot in 30mins, oh and drink alcohol only once a week!!
cruan - Stick to my 2 shakes a day, really watch my calories so I don't go over, lose 5-7 pounds, somehow fit some exercise into the craziness that is my life!
lolahippie-to lose 5lbs!
Roobean33- to lose 4 pounds and tone up - and bring my hubby along for the ride!
emmarie1630- lose 5 pounds, 3x a week workout, more veggies
AshleyVeronica - lose 4lbs, DRINK less calories, monitor what I eat everyday...no holding back, stop eating after 9pm unless it's a weekend
trebhun - lose 4lbs, and work out more, start exercising again after knee scope surgery (last Thurs 11/4)
francesstewart1 - lose 3lbs (and join the Dec challenge!)
seripha - To have an entire week where I eat well and within my calories bounds + exercise for at least 30 minutes 5 x a week.

I just did a blog post on eating badly on the weekends. Does anyone have any suggestions of good ways to enjoy your weekend but still keep on track?

meggonkgonk

I plan lots of activity with the boy- we get in a lot of walking both days either by going between apts or we'll just go for a stroll after a meal just for the heck of it. I also usually reserve 1 workout for the weekend. Both methods are good for having extra cals to play wtih.

But the best answer is just the same as during the week. Keep your non "fun"/splurge meals sensible. I still eat my same kinds of breakfasts and lunches with lighter snacks if we plan dinner. Or if I get up and he's all "I want breakfast" we do that and I lighten dinner a bit. A good part of it is that the boy pitches in by not egging me on to regular indulgent meals, but part of it is just as simple as keeping some semblance of the kind of structure that makes weekdays so much easier.

tai_88

Happy Monday everyone!

Let me tell you my living room is lit up and FULL of glittery objects. I had a great time decorating this weekend.... just the motivation I need. Though it's been 2 days and I am still finding glitter on me...

I need some advice from you guys. I understand that losing weight is difficult. I know it doesnt happen over night. But I'm starting to wonder if I am not eating enough and sabotaging myself in the process. I've been reading a lot of different forums of people who arent losing weight and the general consenus is that they arent eating enough calories. I do my 200-400 cal of cardio 3-4 per week. I'm eating 1200-1500 cal depending on whether i have exercise cals.

I've only lost 0.6 in the last 3 weeks. It's a little frustrating and I just want to make sure I'm doing the right thing! I lost 0.5in from my stomach and hips within the last week so i guess thats something. Honestly, I'm ok with not going on the scale. plus there isn't one in my house so I only weigh myself when I'm at the gym. I feel good about myself being healthier so its not that I'm freaking out about no loss. My main concern is that I'm making the right changes. Thoughts?

hippiechel

@meagalayne: i think it is disappointing for friend(s) to not support you on this journey and to even criticize you or put you down for it. perhaps it is some misconception on their part, but it could also be due to some other more deep-seated problems that they have with themselves. jealousy or perhaps they wish they could be doing the same with their lives but they are choosing inaction, and to make themselves feel better, they're putting you down because they see you making effort and progress in your life. perhaps with more convincing, they'll choose to understand but if not, there's not much you can do! just never feel bad about you choosing to make your life better and happier!

@seripha: welcome!

@emmyworthy: tell us how those shred DVDs are! you can find time to do them right before you shower or before/after your favorite tv shows. don't feel too bad about your drunken mistakes.. hehe it happens to the best of us. time to get back on the wagon (i should speak for myself..)!

@rai8759: logging everything you ate is a good step : ) good job!

@sophieg77: i think it's important to maintain a steady pace that you are able to keep up in the long run. we are not going for extreme dieting or extreme exercising here, but to make realistic lifestyle changes such that we can lose weight and keep it off in the long run! don't burn yourself out!

i'm a little discouraged because i gained back 4 lbs that i lost due to being sick and not watching what i eat during this period. i've not gotten any better, started sneezing a lot actually. and when the sneezes don't come, my eyes start crying. i'm a pretty sight right now!

also, is it a bad idea to get back into boot camp while i am still sick or should i wait to recover?

tai_88

I have changed my mindset so I dont think "I'm restricting my food". Like Meag said earlier, I eat what I want when I want it. Just now I'm less likely to put 600cals towards a Big Mac.

I really try to plan my meals out. I like to know what I'm going to eat and when I'm going to eat it; then I'm less likely to snack in between meals. It also helps me to stop my emotional eating (eat some chips when I'm bored etc.). That in turn, gives me more calories to put towards something I normally wouldn't eat throughout the week (ice cream etc)

GuamGrly

Tai - remember that muscle weighs more than fat. So if you are working out on a regular basis, you will be gaining muscle mass. You should measure your success on how your clothes feel on you. Are they feeling just a little more comfortable and not as tight? And you said you've lost inches so that is a success right there. I meant to take my measurements this weekend but got busy. Hopefully tonight when I get home I will be able to cause the kids will already be in bed and asleep. Don't let yourself think negatively. Bad days will come and go but if we choose to learn from them rather than let them hinder us, we will come out stronger!! I wish you the best!! :flowerforyou:

meagalayne

Tai - I just looked over the last week or 2 of you diary and it's very possible you aren't eating enough. Looks like you are eating mostly really healthy, fresh foods and only occasionally indulging in processed stuff, which is great. What do you have your goal settings at? Looks like you have changed the carb/protein/fat allotments and your calorie goal is at the absolute lowest it can go, basically. As much as you may be working out, you should still be able to lose fat if you are eating right and burning calories, so you just have to figure out what works best for you. 1200 calories is an absolute minimum to consume though - make sure you are always eating at least 1200 + any exercise calories you earn. If what you are doing right now isnt' working - change things up. Have some days where you eat around 1200-1300 and others where you eat 1500-1600, change your workouts if you need, drink lots of water, and keep working hard You'll figure it out!

lola - thanks for the kind response I am definitely not letting it discourage me. More than anything it's just very disappointing that people who are supposed to love and care about me can be so completely wrong about how I am living my life. And obviously are making no attempt to understand the changes I've made and how positively they are affecting me. I am so much happier than I have ever been and it seems like she may actually resent that. It's sad, but that's how these things go I guess. Perhaps it's just time to move on :ohwell:

seripha - find fun and interesting ways to exercise, like Gonks suggests! this is something I always try to do, though its getting harder as the weather is getting worse. during the warmer months we always tried to walk or hike every weekend to keep active. try to fit in a morning workout if you can, and don't deviate too much from your week-day routine. If you have a healthy, filling breakfast every day you may as well do the same on the weekend. I find the hardest part about weekends is being home + near the fridge all day long -- so try to distance yourself and avoid binging. It looks like you may need to work on having healthy snacks more often so you don't over-do things at dinner... Set a goal for yourself to snack every 3 hours on the weekend and make it a priority. Make sure you log your food and keep yourself accountable. Remember: You are doing this for you! :happy: Good luck!

Ran 3.3 miles today, slow and somewhat steady. No complaints. Managed 48 push-ups today and it nearly killed me. The push-up challenge is REALLY, well, challenging! hehe

Hope everyone is having a great Monday!

-Meag

wardiemelissa

So proud of myself...we are having a bake sale at school tomorrow to help one of our families who just went through a terrible tragedy. I made 2 dozen cookies, a pan of brownies, and some cupcakes and I was not even tempted to lick the spatula!!!!! Now that is some self-control!!!! They do smell DELISH!!!!!

@Meag...I actually found the chicken lime tacos on a crockpot thread on MFP...THEY WERE YUMMY!!!!

@Emmy...I LOVE LOVE LOVE 30 day Shred...am actually doing it tonight on my off running night!!!!

@ Meag and Gonks...If you are going to start training for a half I would love to join you for the support and motivation! My farthest has only been about 6 1/2 miles BUT I'm always willing to step it up...Don't know about the Warrior Dash though...I may cheer you on from Detroit!

Good luck everyone!!!! Off to make lunches and finish up dishes from dinner!

wardiemelissa

@Meag...just looked up the thread: what is you FAV SLOW COOKER recipe...

LOTS of good recipes on there everyone!!!!!

tjradd73

Seripha-welcome to the challenge!!

Stuart, emmy, and guam-thanks ladies!!

tai-keep your head up! who knows what the next 2 weeks will bring...stay focused

lola-sorry girl...feel better!

wardie-thanks! i was looking for some new slow cooker recipes!!

great job everyone!!! 2 weeks left!! woohoo!!