WOMEN AGES 50+ FOR JULY2015

Carol — Really sorry to hear about your recovery problems after surgery. I can understand how depressing it must be for you being unable to move as you wish and do as you want. Privacy and independence are important for what we see as a "normal" life, and pain is such a limitation. Vent as much as you like. That's what we're here for.

Tuliplor — I have the same problem battling the urge to snack in the evening. Sometimes I find it helpful to brush my teeth. That sort of puts a psychological lid on the day. Tells me "No more food!" My own strategy for both grazing and healthy snacking is to cut up a pound of veggies first thing in the morning and have them eaten up by bedtime. My repertoire includes carrots, rutabaga, bell peppers, snow peas, parsnip, beetroot, celery, cherry tomatos, cucumber, broccoli stalks (I don't like eating the buds raw), zucchini, cauliflower... The whole pile is usually around 170 calories so I get lots of vitamins, minerals and fiber at a very low "cost". It took my stomach a while to adapt to 500 g of raw vegetables but it's no problem now. Quite the contrary: it makes me feel great!

Kim — Fantastic about your mother writing a check and releasing you from the "bondage" of servicing a loan on your business. Great!

Yoga this morning - got to get ready.

Kim - it sounds as if your relationship with your mother is getting on to a better foot. My mum also did some unexpectedly generous things when she got old. They know they can't take it with them.

Michele - Amazing plank! I am only doing 1 minute now as I found trying to do reslly long ones was putting me off and I wasn't doing them at all. You are very determined! :flowerforyou:

Penny - I'm crossing fingers for the strawberries!

Still haven't heard from my cancer buddy about tomorrow. :ohwell: Will text her later. Don't think she is very good at emails.

Love to all. Heather UK

Good morning ladies! We are going to Bins, good primer, the floors where we tore out the carpet. It will cover cat and dog urine. With DH's asthma and allergies to cats we decided to lay linoleum up stairs where we have 2 bedrooms and the secret room. The one bedroom will be for the DGSs and the other a guest room. So much work to do!

Penny - your garden looks like a fortress! Nothing is going to get into it.

Barbie- thanks for the ideas. I need to learn how to put music on my iPhone. Maybe my 11 year old DGS will be able to show me!

Grits- great compliment! That is a perfect NSV!

Carol - hang in there it will get better!

Sylvia Very interesting information about depression. I am going to see if it helps. I have been really crabby lately. No more mrs nice guy!

Yanniejannie- Do you have blueberries at your house or do you go somewhere to pick?

Michele - I love playing dominoes. Very relaxing. When you hold your plank for 2min45sec is that 1 time ?

Kim - that is so awesome that your mom did that for you. Congratulations on being a business owner and your own boss!

Sharon- it sounds like you are very fortunate to have your family close enough to enjoy your grandchildren.

Heather - I hope you get a hold of your friend.

Allison - I'm glad that you are getting back on track. I also need to be more diligent. At least you didn't gain!

Have a great day everyone!

Mary from Minnesota

Thanks for getting this blog started...I am currently restarting my exercise routine. I have joined a local gym, have a stationary bike in my home. The most important thing is that I have to get moving. I love over 30 lbs to date and would love to lose an additional 15 lbs.

Carol in NC – just sending major hugs… being in pain AND horrible things happening to you is worth having a good cry, as DJ said…

YannieJannie – did you know hostas are supposed to be edible? Check it out-- https://scottishforestgarden.wordpress.com/2012/05/07/hostas/

Kim – so very cool that your up/down relationship with your mom ended up with her knowing what was most important to you! So pleased for you, and her.

Tuliplor – Quest protein bars also have 17 grams of fiber, and only 1 gram of sugar. If you’re near a GNC, they often carry them in single bars—and I would highly suggest trying a few before you buy a lot. I think Heather in the UK also keeps these around. They can be expensive, but if you order direct from the company, you can get them down to a little less than $2 each. For 20 grams of protein and 17 grams of fiber, it’s worth it to me… plus they don’t feel they have to coat them in chocolate to make them palatable. They do have chocolate flavors, if you like them, but I find those to be kinda horrible. The best ones for my tastes are the Cinnamon Roll, Vanilla Almond Crunch, Peanut Butter Supreme and Coconut Almond…

Joyce in Indiana – I found myself doing exactly the same thing and fudging the stats on the amount of popcorn I was making… So, I bumped the calorie level up to what I was actually eating, and it makes me think about it before I eat it at all. We’re worth being honest, even when it makes us blink.

Even at 140 to 150 grams a day, the protein isn’t bumping me off the current stall… which has been eight days now. It bumped me past the 30-pounds lost mark to begin with, but hasn’t been keeping my losses consistent. At the same time, routine is so important to me, and keeps me so happy, that I’m tempted to simply drop the calorie count a couple hundred for three or four days and leave it at that. Hopefully, the math of CICO (calories in, calories out) will catch up soon enough to keep me from getting frustrated…

Writer’s workshop was kinda awesome last night – we traded reads, instead of reading our own writing, and it was fascinating hearing what I had to say in someone else’s voice. Really enjoyed it. We’re bumping our workshops up to once a week, which really makes me happy. It also gets me off the ranch, something that can be kind of hard to get me to do, since it’s a 45-minute drive into town. Most of the workshop also ran the 5K, as well—love being around a group of strong, smart women. Hmm, much like here!

For those who don’t know, you have a couple captive writers on the thread (the others poke at us to see us jump, since our minds are usually quite far away). For what we write, you can do a search on Amazon for Lisa C Hannon (the middle initial’s important) or Heather Eyles… Mine are a murder mystery and a collection of my op/ed columns, and Heather’s is literary fiction and children’s books…

Just for your amusement (and mine this morning…) a couple writer’s jokes:


Lisa H in rainy West Texas

July goals
Weigh less than I did at the end of June
Run farther than I did at the end of June
Steady calorie levels, 1400-1500 daily, 140-150 g protein daily.
Get the core work going, even if it’s only crunches.
Write 2500 words a day, every day in July. BISHOK… Butt in seat, hands on keyboard every single day. At 100 wpm, should take only 25 minutes, right? Do it.

@Lhannon062709 Even at 140 to 150 grams a day, the protein isn’t bumping me off the current stall… which has been eight days now. It bumped me past the 30-pounds lost mark to begin with, but hasn’t been keeping my losses consistent. At the same time, routine is so important to me, and keeps me so happy, that I’m tempted to simply drop the calorie count a couple hundred for three or four days and leave it at that. Hopefully, the math of CICO (calories in, calories out) will catch up soon enough to keep me from getting frustrated…

I was hoping that monitoring my protein macro would help me with the weight loss also. No such luck so far. My body just does not want to give up the weight. Had my husband look at my CICO over the last several weeks to make sure I was accurate in concluding I should be losing and he agreed. Sigh...day #12 of the stall.....in for the long haul.

Cheri

Golly GEE Lisa. How the heck do you get in 140 grams of protein per day? I guess protein bars at 20 grams a shot would help... I currently have my protein goal set at 90 grams a day and I don't know if I've ever managed to eat that much in a single day. At least not within my 1200 calorie limit. *sigh*

After eight consecutive weeks of steady weight loss, I fear I'm moving onto that plateau both Lisa and Cheri appear to be stuck on. (Move over, girls!) I've had to cut down on jogging because of a sore throat, and I've also sinned once or twice, so maybe that's it.

I'll go out and run the weed whacker for a while, see if that helps any.

Speaking of weeds, here's yesterday's bouquet. It's a bit unorthodox. I was out walking and noticed a patch of stinging nettles where the tops were all purplish. That inspired me to pick a bouquet with a purple theme. So nettles, water avens, and a couple of grasses with purplish tops. I like the texture


/Penny at the Pole

July goals:
1. Maintain my pound-a-day veggie habit
2. Weigh and log food when I am cooking
3. Exercise restraint when I'm not cooking
4. "Choose my booze"
5. Exercise in some form every day

Call me crazy but I love to see other people happy and succeeding .

Good Morning Ladies,

Carol, I did want to know how you are as well as the pain. And of course you can tell us how you really feel. How I really feel is so bad that on top of everything else you are getting depressed. I really wish I could help. If we were closer, I’d drive you to work and PT. I’d walk with you some for a little exercise. I’d crack jokes to make you smile. Do you have to wear a bra unless you are going someplace? If not, tell your DD to go until the day you need her to drive you someplace. That is, if she is more stressful than she’s worth. I know that feeling from my DD. Gosh they can be exhausting. Just know that we love you and want a speedy recovery, so hang in there. ((((Hugs)))) OMG, your roof is leaking? Okay, just have a good cry and I’ll cry with you.

Sylvia, I don’t want to burst your bubble about depression but I have always been a people pleaser and was raised to be nice and I’m happy to say I have not ever suffered from depression except for right after the birth of my baby. But if it helps those of you that are depressed to be a little mean, try it out. Ya know, whatever works!

Bkrimpet, I have worn the tankinis for a few years. The ones that are pretty form fitting don’t really ride up. Although I do get the one’s that come down past my waist. They look almost like a one piece but are so much better when it comes time for a potty break.

Michele, great holding on that plank!! You must have a body with muscles like a board. I don’t know about Pip, but my feeling is, “why mess up good liquor with chocolate?” LOL Okay, what is Mexican Train dominoes? That’s a new one to me.

Carey, Hi and bye. Thanks for stopping by but come back when you can stay longer and tell us what’s going on with you.

Kim, what a wonderful gift from your Mom!!! At least she realized that she was doing so much more for your brother. I just feel sorry for all the women over 60 that are caring for grandchildren of able bodied parents. I have a 73 yr old friend who does way more than she should have to for her grandchildren. It is taking away from her retirement and enjoyment of life. She loves them dearly, that’s not it, but she is just not in condition to do what she does.

Yannie, or anyone, with all the tankini talk I started thinking that I haven’t seen as many this year as normal. Are you all finding that is the case? I have two tops that fit okay but the bottoms were too big and baggy. When I started looking for new bottoms there just weren’t as many around. Plenty of bikini’s but I need “old lady bottoms” that cover the whole shebang.

Joyce, thanks for the picture. I didn’t know they were that big!!! I was thinking of something about the size of a table lantern or smaller, that I have seen somewhere. Wow, about your crunchy cereal on your yogurt; I don’t know how many calories it has, but I often use Grape Nuts and only allow myself ¼ cup because it is so high. You must use a big bowl if you were putting 3 cups in it? WE have to be honest with ourselves.

Allison, as far as I’m concerned, often no gain is as good as a loss. You know, when we think we will pick up a pound or two due to our behavior. Good for you, now will come the loss.

Mary, I’m sure you must have told us, but Ya know my CRS. What is the “secret room” at your new house? On the linoleum for upstairs, they now have some that look just like hardwood floors. Of course they have all kinds of neat stuff, so have fun shopping and fixing up. Also, once the fix up is done and you can move in, remember that most of the decorating can wait. We often have a different feel for our house after we have lived in it for a year or two, so don’t rush into the things that can be put off a bit.

Miriam, I had not heard the Acid Annie comment on bras and I like it!!! “the best bra is a sweatshirt” Too bad that doesn’t work in the summer.

Lisa, you said, “We’re worth being honest, even when it makes us blink” when talking about logging our food. To me that is the reason we log at all, so we will think about what we are eating. OMG, I remember when I started on MFP and looked just to see what the calorie level was in many of my favorite foods….talk about blink!! That was a real eye opener to me. If I eat something with 300 calories or more and “pretend” that is has 100, I don’t think MFP cares one way or another. But My body sure does. We have to be honest with ourselves or why waste the time to log it. (oops, climbing down off my soap box.) I like your jokes.

Cheri, I see you are concentrating on protein. Have you tried to limit carbs? I saw a doctor interviewed a few weeks ago talking about the plateaus of weight loss. He said to go as low carb as possible for 3 days, then back to normal healthy eating. According to him, this will often do the trick. It has somewhat worked for me on occasion. Good luck.

Theresa, welcome. You will find this a great place for support and information. You said you had joints removed and replaced..was that jaw joints? I hadn’t heard of that. Just take this one day at a time and work up to being the best that you can be. It is a life journey and not a race. Come often and chat when you’d like. Please sign each post with your name and a location, be it general or specific. Good luck.

Penny, I like your boquet. And stay away from those plateaus. They really aren’t as much fun as they look.

Pip, Good morning. Have a marvelous day.

to any Newbies that I missed. Come often and join in the chat. This thing works!! Please sign your post with what you want to be called. It makes it easier for us to respond to you. Also a location is great, be it specific or general. We are happy to have you join us.

DH just left to take the two furry boys to the beauty shop. Then he will go to a couple of stores while he’s out. When he gets home, we will go to Costco to pick up a prescription, buy a couple of things and eat lunch. I love their grilled chicken Caesar salad. I just have to remember to take my own low cal dressing. I normally bring home half of it and if needed will add chicken for lunch tomorrow. I have to go give myself a haircut and get my shower before DH gets back.

I hope you all have a successful, happy and healthy day.

Words I live by:
Savor. I have to slow down and savor every bite.
and
Opportunity. Each day offers new opportunities for good health and happiness if we just look for them and choose them.
I Love you,
DJ
Myrtle Beach, SC

Pool at the YMCA still not functioning correctly, water way too hot. I hope they get it fixed by tomorrow. So my plan for the day is two 30 minute sessions on the stationary bike and laundry. Does not sound very exciting.

@Kim that is so terrific that your Mom wrote you a check to pay off your business loan. So exciting.

@Grits - I have a chronic problem with sinus infection. Usually have a bad flare up a couple of times each year. Then I end up having to get a shot and oral antibiotics plus an antibiotic ointment for my nostrils. They are no fun. Hopefully the meds you have now will begin to help.

@Carol - ugh, I sure hope things begin to turn around soon. I too would just go brainless, but then I am "boobless" who ever heard of a fat old lady with no boobs? ((((((Hugs))))))

@Penny - love the bouqet.

@Becca - I also could not view your pics on my tablet. I'll try on the PC.

Very rainy here for the next couple of days.

Janetr OKC

Good morning!

I had to get to work early today for a meeting and then my meeting was cancelled at the last minute. Bummer. I got up early so I could get 20 min of Zumba in before work. Rained here yesterday and they are worried about flooding but so far so good. It's sunny but a cool 64F here right now and only supposed to get up to low 70's today. But, then it's supposed to hit 90 on Saturday. That is Iowa weather at it's best - if you don't like the weather, wait an hour and it will change.

Heather/UK - I'm not an expert, but I think your family would want you to tell them about your childhood. My view is from the other side of the fence. A close friend of mine was abused as a child and held it in for many years. Once he finally confided in me, it helped me to better understand him and also to better support him as he still tries to work through his past issues. I'm glad he told me and I think your children would be glad as well.

Lenora/GRITS - So sorry to hear you now have bronchitis. I tend to get it about once a year. A strong antibiotic usually kicks most of the symptoms for me, but the cough can linger for weeks. Hope you are feeling better very soon (and with no lingering symptoms).

Carol/NC - Sending you a gentle hug from the middle of the U.S. I think you deserve to be able to vent and we are happy to listen. I know it's hard to give up some independence, but I agree that maybe you could ask for some help from your church(s).

Kim - Congrats on owning your own business!

Theresa - Welcome. Sounds like you've had some struggles. Good luck with the dentures and getting things back on track.

Linda/IA

Gilly - I had to look the acronym up, but I completely understand how you must feel! Awful thing to happen. I had a stillbirth of a full term girl and that was awful enough. I hope you will get used to the name as the baby grows. :flowerforyou: My baby was called Kate.

Heather UK

Mind, Body & Sole Read at Your Own Pace 2015-a reading/wellness experience

Lillian we got your hazy skies yesterday in Minnesota. We got a pollution alert to be careful with activities. This haze came after a 4 inch rainfall. I hope they get those fires under control soon.

Kim so happy for you that your mom came through for you!

Yanniejannie as I said most of my hosta is green or variegated. This is one of my favorite bunches near my patio that is different from most of the others I have.

Lisa find the idea of eating hosta interesting. I did try new milkweed last year too bitter for me. I guess the Native Americans would eat them like asparagus. I have yet to try fiddle head ferns from my garden too.

Michele you, pip, and barbie are inspiring in your consistency in exercising.

Becca my computer would not let me access your son's wedding picture.

Carol gentle ((((Hug))))

Chari poster :drinker:

Penny love the bouquet.

Heather the dance sounds like a blast.

Joyce love the sky lantern.

Sharon love how upbeat you sound.

Sylvia I have found that when I get into trouble with people pleasing is when I do something because I feel I have too. Before I do something for someone I ask myself is this something I really want to do. If it is not I still might do it depending on the situation. In some cases it make it easier for me to say NO! No is a wonderful word to establish boundaries.

I have mentioned this book before Emotional Genius. (Unfortunately out of print) I got a copy at a library.I liked how Karla MacKlaren (Not sure spelled correctly) discussed depression. The reasons for it are usually more than one and is personal to that individual. What works for one may not work for another. She does offer some interesting techniques to try. One of my favorites is to mentally write out your troubles. Then roll that paper up and send it off in flames. I can tell she believes in Chakra work, so if you have interest in that she might be worth checking out.

Gritsand sluts this is my Get Well wish for you. Since I could get the paper to print here I staged my own with a pair of my own flamingoes.

MNMargaret

Kirby says hey there ladies

I was gone for the weekend...watched what I was eating fairly well, though my logging was inconsistent. I'm back at it today.

I went for a long (sticky/humid) walk on Saturday morning with my sister and bro-in-law. They have been walking regularly for about 4-1/4 miles most mornings. For the first several minutes my back hurt a lot and my sciatica was creating a lot of pain as well. I kept plugging along at a good clip, though, thinking I might turn around and let my sister and bro-in-law finish without me, but then the pain lifted after about 15 minutes and I finished the walk. When I found out I had burned almost 200 calories, I thought, "Wow, I burn that much in 30 minutes on the Octane fitness machine at the gym--in air conditioning and without pain!" I got back home last night and was at the Y at noon to workout on the Octane machine. 235 calories burned in 30 minutes. As I walked out of the Y, I thought of how nice it is to workout this time of year in air conditioning!

Theresa, welcome. Be encouraged that you did not regain all of the weight you lost. You do have some serious challenges, but with determination and accountability here on MFP, you will lose the weight!

Christina