Need to Lose 100 LBS -Robins Thread !

Robin B- Like Karen said you could have pulled a muscle in that one arm. It is possible that the one arm is weaker than the other arm so while you can lift heavier with the hand you may need to back off with the other. I know that my right hand can handle more weight at higher reps than my left arm. You can also ice the area.

Jenn -Thanks for the information about the numbers in the group.

Kaye- I would feel the same way about the phone number. The only good thing about a new phone is fewer tell-a-marketer calls hopefully. Glad you resolved the problem.

Tracy- Keep on Jacob about his school work. Ask lots of questions about what he is doing in school and know who is friends are in school. 8th graders tend to change friends without warning or things go wrong with their friends very quickly and both of those cases cause change in a student's work habits. You can also talk to the guidance office and request that they meet with him to check on his progress or just check in with him to see what is going on and how things are going. I have a couple of students who are going through some major changes right now and they say they don't care about school so they see no need to do well. It is very frustrating to deal with kids when they are like this but it should get better. You can also require him to stay after school for extra help or to redo assignments. Good luck.

p1xy-Hope you feel better. Your body is also burning calories when you are sick. Get some rest, it will be good for your body.

Karen- My spring break is the week before Easter Sunday so it starts on April 14 and ends on April 21, provided we don't lose any days due to snow. I have 6 periods about 58 minutes long with 2 planning periods. One of those is typically for meetings and the other is personal planning. Our work day is about 6.5-7.5 hours with 25 minutes duty free lunch for approximately 37 hour work week. We have two long days a week, both are for meetings after school.

Nettie-Congratulations on achieving the first goal.

Fitness- I think I will start training for an outdoor triathlon at the end of April. In many ways I have been all along for this event, now it is a matter of putting events together. This triathlon would include an 800 m swim (indoor pool), 9.5 mile bike then a 3.1 mile run. The swim and run are time, bike is not due to the speed limit on the trail. The only draw back is that this event is the same weekend as Special Olympics and that is my all time favorite volunteer event. I could do both or opt to help SO on Sunday only, so I will think about it this week then decided.

This weekend I will go to water aerobics and the gym on Sunday. It should be a good week for exercise but we will see how the plan goes and the weather on Monday. Yes, we are suppose to get more snow Sunday night into Monday. If it happens, I can only hope for a 2 hour delay or enough to shut the school down for the day (Don't really want another snow day). They are predicting anywhere from 3 to 8 inches of the white stuff between Sunday night into Monday. Tomorrow is suppose to be great with the temps in the 50's.

Have a great weekend

@nettie--I would chalk it up to just "one of those days," but I have felt hungry for several days in the past 2 weeks even when I've gone over calories. :ohwell: Congrats on getting down near the teens!! Have you thought anymore about doing the Tunnel 2 Towers 5k with laurie, susan, and I in September? Registration opened last week.

@laurie--does your district typically sync spring break with the easter holiday? That's how chicago public schools did it when I was growing up, but my current school district always schedules our spring break the last week of march regardless if when easter falls. That's really cool that you are thinking of doing the outdoor tri! I started looking at flights to NYC. Do you or susan know which airport is best to fly into? I was thinking of using miles, but I'm seeing some pretty cheap airfares ($350 round trip), so I may just save my miles.

AFM--I decided to re-calculate my zig-zag calories without any exercise, and then I will just eat back those I earn on the days I work out. I think this will make things easier for me--especially since I plan to increase my running for my 30-day work challenge. I won't have to worry about whether I will have enough calories on my gym days when I burn a lot, and if I find I'm hungry or have a special event/outing, I can earn more calories. Trying to predict what I will burn in advance is proving too difficult.

Hi everyone,

My name is Susan and I just restarted MFP this past week. I have done the yo-yo dieted for years and had lost weight for a while then this week realized I am back to my all time high wt. So iafter being depressed for 5 min I am resolved to loose it and never see this # again.

Last night I had a NSV. I was having my typical mental hunger and wanted to make ravioli in the worst way. I was not physically hungry. The me of last week would have enjoyed that ravioli and felt bad afterward. Last night, I ignored my brain and woke up this morning feeling a sense of accomplishment that I didn't give in. That is a big step for me and one I plan to repeat.

I look forward to getting to know you all.

Susan

Yesterday I enjoyed my day off work... I got barely 5000 steps in but that's OK, and it was a rest day from exercise as well. I did my grocery shopping and went to see my parents new house, they just moved in yesterday. They are now about 20 min away from me, 20 min closer than they were before. I will definitely be popping in to see them more often now. My DD came down from London to my parents place as well, where she's going to college, so we could visit for a bit. The first thing she said when I got up from the table and she could see me was "mom you look smaller". That just made my day. :bigsmile: If she is the only person who ever says that, then that would be just fine.

I'm getting a little stressed over my numbers and I shouldn't be, but I am. I am following the EM2WL plan (eat more to weigh less) and it has been a huge success for me. I've never been one to restrict calories too much, and always end up hungry and cheat. On this plan I figure out my daily calorie expenditure (TDEE) including exercise, and eat 15% less than that. So I am currently eating 2185 calories a day and losing about a pound a week. Every 5-10 lbs I am supposed to recalculate my TDEE, so when I figured it out again, I am now up to 2392 calories per day. I am scared to eat that much. I use the info from my fitbit. I have really increased my exercise lately and that's why the increase in calorie allowance but I don't want to stall my progress at all. I start eating the new allowance today so I will be watching the scale like a hawk. I hope this works... no reason it shouldn't if my numbers are correct, but I'm a little worried all the same. In fact I am so stressed over the numbers that I ordered a HRM to get more accurate calorie burns on my cardio and DVD workouts. :blushing:

I weighed in at 223.6 today, the exact same weight as yesterday. Fantastic results after a complete rest day. This is the lowest weight I've been in about 4 years.

@tracy--that's great that you've been ab;e to maintain your weight through all of the travel and illness you've dealt with. :drinker:

@tanya--do you use an online calculator to figure your TDEE? If so, which one do you use. I've tried it before, but just as with zig-zagging, it makes me nervous to try to estimate my exercise into the calculations. I think "What if I over or under-estimate how much I will get to the gym?" That's why I just switched over to calculating without the exercise, and I plan to eat back my calories when I earn them.

@L2T--congrats on finishing your taxes--I'll be tackling ours in about a week. We have our withholdings set up so we usually break even which I know is what financial experts recommend (why give the feds an interest-free loan); however, I still miss the big refunds from my youth. :ohwell: Glad you are still losing--and I agree, every little bit counts. I also agree that I want to lose more, but am happy I've at least reached a weight where the excess doesn't affect my lifestyle. I sometimes wonder though if the "comfort" at my current weight is working against me. Maybe if I felt 'fatter,' I would work harder to lose this last 20-40 lbs.

@susanSMA--Welcome and great job resisting the ravioli! :flowerforyou:

@rose--it's nice that your brother wants to also join MFP.

Saturday Success:
Nothing really to write home about. I'm still hovering between 187-189 even with a couple of really high calorie days, so I guess that's a "win." Last night I re-calculated my zig-zag calories with the activity setting at "sedentary," and starting today I will just add my exercise calories to my daily allowance.

Slept in a bit, but I need to get going so I can walk gunner and hit the gym before going to garetie's St. Patrick's Day party tonight. I also need to get a bit of grading done tomorrow b/c I'm collecting Junior Research Papers on monday. Not excited about grading those. :sad:

March Challenge:
1. 1/4 weeks--Share a new recipe
2. 11/31--Eat a veggie/ salad every day.
3. 14/31--Water goal 12 cups/day

Grading Goals:
1. x/16 AP analysis activities
2. x/70 AP essays

Exercise goals:
Mon--run outside w/ gunner DONE
Tues--rest day (late meeting)
Wed--run outside w/ gunner DONE
Thurs--walk at school (late meeting) walked gunner instead DONE
Fri--walk gunner DONE
Sat--walk gunner + gym (cardio)
Sun--walk gunner + gym (circuit training + HIIT)

Hey all. Thanks for being so welcoming and encouraging.

Saturday: focus on the positive: I did 45 minutes of my balance ball core workout this morning for the first time in about three weeks. YEAH!

March Challenge:
1. 1/4 weeks--Share a new recipe
Here is a great recipe. It came from SKINNYTASTE.com
Chicken, scallions with a hint of lime. For the cilantro lovers out there, enjoy this tasty twist on traditional chicken salad with a little Latin flavor. I'm cutting back on my carbs this week, so I thought serving this in a hollowed out tomato would be a great way to eat this for lunch, but you could also serve this in an avocado half (yum!), on a bed of greens, or enjoy this on toasted whole grain bread.

Cilantro Chicken Salad
Servings: 2 • Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe • Old Points: 4 pts • Points+: 4 pts
Calories: 163.3 • Fat: 6.2 g • Protein: 23.2 g • Carb: 2.3 g • Fiber: 0.2 g


Ingredients:
•7 oz cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced
•2 tbsp light mayonnaise
•1 small scallion, chopped
•2 tsp lime juice
•2 tbsp chopped cilantro
•salt and pepper
•pinch garlic powder
•pinch of cumin
•pinch of chile powder
•low sodium chicken broth

Directions:
Combine chicken, mayonnaise, scallions, lime juice, and cilantro. Season to taste with salt, pepper, garlic powder, cumin, and chile powder. Add a little chicken broth if chicken seams too dry, 1 tbsp at a time.

*To Poach: Cover chicken breast in broth in a small pot, add water if it doesn't cover the chicken. Add salt and pepper, a piece of celery and it's leaves (you could add herbs like parsley, garlic, onion, or whatever you want) and bring to a boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook 5 minutes. Remove from heat, cover tight and let it sit for 15-20 minutes or until thickest part of the breast registers 160 degrees. Chicken will be cooked through. Let it cool and cut into small cubes.

2. 15/31--Eat a veggie/ salad every day.
3. 15/31--Water goal 12 cups/day

Exercise goals for this week:
Sat -- Yoga balance ball - 30 minutes workout (core and arms) - Done, Walk 45 minutes - ______
Sun-- Yoga balance ball -45 minute workout - ; Jog 30 minutes - ______
Mon-- Yoga - youtube - 20 minutes - ______; Walk at 3miles/minute and jog 4.5miles/min 45 minutes - ______
Tues-- Yoga ball - _____; Walk - 30 minutes ______
Wed-- rest day (Church); walk - 30 minutes ______
Thurs-- yoga _____; Fat burn - _______; Run 30 minutes
Fri-- Yoga ______; Walk 30 minutes - ______
Sat-- Fat burn - ______; Run 30 minutes - _______; yoga ball - _______
Sun-- Yoga ball - _______; run/walk - 45 minutes - _______

I hope everyone is having a great Saturday!!

@skinny: I used the scooby calculator to get my TDEE at first. Now im using my fitbit daily cals burned. I did end up making a mistake and after redoing my math, I should be eating 2120 not 2392 (whew!) The EM2LW group has a spreadsheet that I can input my individual daily exercise burns with HRM to get more accurate numbers. So I've just now adjusted my TDEE and deficit using fitbit numbers. In the future I will input daily values on the spreadsheet and use that to calculate my daily eating goals.

Saturday Success: My parents visit was a success. We enjoyed them being here and hated to see them go. My mom already called and they made it back home to FL. I dropped them off at 8, hit the gym, washed the car, and then came home to get the house back in order (stripped beds, laundry, dusted, vacuumed, bathrooms, and mopped). I’m pretty exhausted, but the house is sparkling. Later on I’m going to clean out the fridge. I need the junk gone. It’s time to get back on track. Quit talking and doing. Baby steps again.

I miss Cyrus though. I dropped him off Friday AM around 2:30 (no joke). He’s on a science field trip with 100 other middle schoolers (poor teacher – LOL) to Catalina Island. It’s a weekend of kayaking, snorkeling, marine biology, boating, etc. . . I know he’s having a good time, but I miss my little man!!!

7 pages of personals, but I missed you guys!! Here’s some personals to catch me up:

@ Hansea – I’ve got the logging down, but it’s being consistent that I need to work on. Congrats on the loss last week and staying away from the chips. It sounds like you had a GREAT week. You go girl!! Also, I saw the Meatloaf recipe. I’ve never put shredded cabbage – interesting. I may need to give this one a try. Thanks for sharing!!

@ Karen – Cancer sucks!!! I hated to read about your friend. It’s everywhere and effects so many people. It sounds like you had a good week overall. I wanted to chat with you about my Chicago trip in May. It would be great to meet you!!

@ Laurie – Donuts are a down fall for me. Its better I don’t even start. My sister stopped by this bakery and the size of the donuts they brought home – ridiculous. I didn’t eat one, but it was hard. It’s those GS cookies, which I’m giving to the neighbors immediately. Mom & Dad didn’t finish them so I have to get rid of them FAST!! Also, loved your post on the 9th. Congrats hitting your numbers on the tri – so proud of you! Plus, an even better post about the wedding. You’ve worked so hard and should be very proud. I bet you looked as good as you felt. Great picture too. Nice!!!

@ Karen/Laurie – I’m really excited for our adventure in September. Karen – I loved seeing your note to Nettie about “See you at the finish line.” I will not be offended one bit. LOL!! Also, I like the idea of a nice night out. I'm game!!

@ Kaye – I love reading your post and congrats on the size 12’s. So proud of you!! I also saw your last post about the stress and glad you kept your number. I still kept my Atlanta number in Vegas. I’ve had this one for at least 15 years. I’m nowhere near 40, but I would hate to lose it. I’m worried about my Dad. Even today when they got back to FL, my Mom said they had to call AAA. My Dad couldn’t remember the code to his truck and didn’t have his keys. I’m so afraid early Alzheimer’s may be setting in. Of course, it might just be forgetfulness of old age, but it scares me. I know its part of life, but hate watching it happen.

@ Humble – How’s the hip doing? It’s truly amazing how our bodies do change. For me, it’s been my eye sight. I hate these crazy readers. Truly, once I hit 45 last October, I just can’t see a thing. Sigh. I saw your recent post on the health numbers – Woo Hoo!!

@ Kris – Congrats on the 7 lbs down. Water or not we’ll celebrate!! On the potluck, I always made sure to bring a healthy dish and focused on that. Plus, the potlucks are not weekly - right? You can plan ahead and save up some calories plus get in a little extra exercise. I know you've enjoyed your church family and these events are important too. Just make one trip not two. This is why I stay away from buffets. Believe me in Vegas there every where!!!

@ Robin – Loved seeing your post and welcome back!! Sorry to read your body is still not cooperating. I keep hoping we’ll see a positive health report soon. Also, nice $100 savings and price matching. Sweet!!!

@ Kelly – I know you’re on your to Panama. Happy cruising!!! I just wanted to say WOO HOO on the Levi’s. You’ve worked so hard and stayed so consistent. You deserve to rock those jeans!!

@ Nettie – Loved reading your post about you and Brian. It’s so great you have his support and you’re doing this together. Also, I had to chuckle at your stalking the pink shirt. You’re so funny!!

@ Josie, NewMeadow, Damensha, Cindy, Nickmonaco, Apeydawn, Jeannie, SMA1978 - Welcome!!!!

@ Queen – Great to read a clean bill on the mammo. It’s so important to smash the ta-ta’s especially with your family history.

@ L2T – I cannot wait for the day when I can post a 96 lb loss. I know it will come one of these days/years just trying to push through. I’m so proud of you and I know those remaining pounds will come off. Keep pushing through.

@ Tom – Cute St. Patty day reminder. Also, will you and Amy be able to join Laurie, her friend and me for dinner when she's in town? Is there a place you want to recommend? This has been your home much longer than mine. It would be great to all get together.

@ RobinB – I’m so glad your son was able to come home. I have some pretty crazy Daytona and Key West Spring Break memories myself. Oh my.

@ Naomi – You know were here for you and whatever you can give. It’s just important to post and check in.

@ Tanya – Me too. I keep losing and gaining the same 5, 10 and 20 lbs. One day I know we’re both going to make it.

@ KarenL – Tough decision. I guess you need to really weigh out the pros/cons – positives/negatives.

@ Rain – I think you’re doing great. A 43 minute 5K is a good pace. You’re so young and have so much ahead. You’re so smart to start taking control now. The older I get it seems harder and harder. Keep doing what you’re doing, but you need more positive talk. You’ve accomplished so much and need to keep reminding yourself how far you’ve come.

@ Littleshadow – Sorry to read about your chronic pain. Ankles and shins are no fun. Hope you’re feeling better! I know its tough race walking with ankles and shins in pain.

@ Ell – I’m glad you have something you enjoy and can relax. Gardening for me is completely opposite. I really wish I could enjoy it, but I don’t think I have the patience. Plus, I think I’m a wimp and don’t like to get my fingers dirty. LOL!!!

@ Mel – Have you gone completely stir crazy by now? I can’t believe the brutal winter weather continues. After growing up in northwest PA, I just couldn’t handle the snow again. Tomorrow my plan is to relax by the pool, magazines, and a few adult beverages. LOL!!

@ Helena – Fiancé?? CONGRATS!!!!!

@ Ushkii – Had to chuckle about the Lay’s. I think many of us have those crumbs all over our shirts, fingers, mouth, etc. . .

@ Tracy – I’ve been worried about you. I’m glad to see you back. You know we’re here for you through all the ups and downs. I’m so sorry to read about Jacob. I know the junior high years can be brutal. Laurie gave some great advice. So far Cyrus has done OK in 6th grade, but I’m watching things every single day. I know you’re trying so hard. Jacob is lucky to have a Mom who loves and cares for him so much. Unfortunately, many kids out there don’t have that support and their just left on their own. Thoughts and prayers coming your way. I’m with you on the housing. I would like to buy, but the area we want due to schools I’m about to be priced out as well. I may be a long-time renter, but I’m OK with that.

@ P1X – Sorry to hear you’re under the weather. I know with the little ones and a job where you’re on your feet all the time I bet your body is exhausted. Hope you can get some much needed rest this weekend.

Robin....so sorry for all your physical problems right now. Hopefully your drs can help you get a handle on them soon.

Laurie.......How fun is that to know you look so different now that people are wondering who that girl is!!! Congratulations
on the big change!

Susan....... Happy you had such a nice visit with your parents! I have such wonderful memories of my parents.
What a field trip for your son! Wow! When I took my 3rd graders for a one day field trip, it was an exhausting day......
Can't imagine taking that large group of middle schoolers for a weekend field trip! Bless them!
I've really been slacking on the walking.......i just can't make myself get out unless it is nice weather. I'm gonna do better this week.
We will see how the hip does. I hadn't walked much for quite a while and then did an hour........maybe it was too much without
working up to it. I think i will go easier to begin this time.

Mowmow......... sounds like an exciting week! Have fun!

Jeanie........ welcome! the cilantro chicken salad looks really good. I will try it! I like cilantro's flavor

Welcome to all the new folks!
Happy Sunday everyone!