"12 Weeks Weightloss Challenge" All Welcome

WOW! Sept.1 already. The summer has gone by fast. I have 18 days before the end of my first 12 week challenge. I will continue with another 12 weeks until I reach my goal. I have 5 pounds to lose to meet my first goal by the 18th, I will really try hard to get there.

Choose to Lose

Realize that this is a lifestyle change and remove the word ‘diet’ from your vocabulary. This isn’t temporary, unless you want the weight loss to be temporary. Don’t give something up unless you’re planning on giving it up for life. Moderation is key – you don’t have to give something up to lose weight – just eat less of it. EH

Thanks every body for your support. I haven't been able to exercise for 3 days because my back went out. I can really feel the difference. I haven't been posting my meals and exercise and that makes me panic. I hope to get back on schedule in the morning. I am going to try some yoga stretches and hope it helps. Sometimes things happen that lead us in a different direction but we still can be focused and do the best we can.
I myself am a morning person and its a must for me to start my day right(exercising, smoothie, etc.). If I start the day right, I will stay on course. my sister stop by today and we haven't seen each other for a month or so. She asked how much weight had I lost and that she could tell that I was still losing. That made me feel good and gave me the encouragement I needed to do well.

When your day is jam-packed with everything but time for a workout, try incorporating a few of the quick tips below to stay on top of your game.

1. Take the stairs. You expected this one. So, why aren’t you already doing it?! If you’re in a time crunch and really need to take the elevator, do some calf raises while you wait.

2. Go face to face. Technology is awesome — it brought you here! But it’s time to get up, walk over to your co-worker or neighbor and talk to them face-to-face instead via text message or e-mail. You’ll probably get more accomplished with an in-person conversation anyway.

3. Track your hydration. It’s tough to know how much water you drink (or don’t drink) every day, so mark up your water bottle or tally your score in a planner or use an app, like Waterlogged.

4. Ditch convenience for weight. For quick errands, forget the cart. Use a basket. Make one trip instead of two when carrying in the groceries by loading the bags into one big bag or lining them up your arms! Click here for more day-to-day transgressions of strong women.

5. Go the long way. Park farther away, walk around the block, choose the scenic route or whatever it takes for you to get those steps in!

6. Pack fiber and protein. When you know you’re going to have a crazy day, do yourself a favor and pack some fuel. Protein and fiber-filled snacks are best because they’ll fill you up and boost your energy. Click here for snack inspiration.

7. Breathe. Take 60 seconds to drop what you’re doing, close your eyes and inhale. Slowly exhale, dropping your shoulders away from your ears and letting all the noise fade. It will help slow your racing heart and ease your stress, which leads to the buildup of cortisol and fat storage.

8. Take phone calls standing. Ring, ring! Leg muscles, here, ask for a quick shake and stretch. Pace, squat,
lunge or stretch a little. SM

Welcome Newbies
We are so glad to have you and we are looking forward to your post.
Congratulations Ellie on your 13 pounds gone with MFP. Way to go!

still holding at 204, my goal for the coming week 2 pounds

congratulations Aaron, very impressive. A loss every week wow!