👋 Introductions: Please Say Hello and Help Us Get To Know You! 👋

Ceriusly1 · May 31

Please copy these questions to your post in the comments.

What is your MFP name?
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as?
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges?
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live?
What are your health/fitness goals for this season?
Do you like Summer? Why or why not?
What are your favorite Summer activities?
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise?
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house?
What always cheers you up?
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share?
Please share two fun things about you.
Is there anything else you would like to share?

Ceriusly1 · May 31

What is your MFP name? Ceriusly1
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Ceri, pronounced like Siri (but I'm much older than that imposter).
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I was there for the very first one in 2010.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. This is challenge number 64. I missed one, so I've done 63. That said, I keep coming back because, even though I don't lose 5% every time, I also don't gain 5%.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live 20 miles south of South Williamsport, PA. You may recognize it as the home of Little League Baseball and the Little League World Series.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I want to get lots of sunshine! I love working in my yard, even though I am a novice. I love to walk, but since I am my Mom's caregiver, I can't venture too far from home.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Summer is my favorite season! I never complain about the heat because I hate being cold.
What are your favorite Summer activities? I love being outside doing anything.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking, Walking, Walking! Even though I can't go far, I can go often. I also enjoy doing pool exercises when my cousin's pool is available.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? It's not to clean the house!
What always cheers you up? Worship, my Son's family, my Mom, my cats.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Please do it now! Tomorrow it gets harder.
Please share two fun things about you. When my name is called at appointments, people with Apple watches all look at their watches.
Is there anything else you would like to share?

Best wishes to everyone for a successful challenge!

hicim705 · June 3

👋 Hello ~ Welcome to the 2025 Summer 5% Challenge!! 👋

What is your MFP name? hicim705
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Heidi
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I was on SparkPeople and found out about the 5% Challenges once their 'first round' had started. I began with the 5% Challenges in the Summer of that year (roughly July, 2010) ~ on SparkPeople, I was assigned to a team that the members voted to call 'The Firecrackers'.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. According to my Co-Leader, Ceri, this is Challenge #64. I missed the first one and also another one or two (or so). I would say that I've done roughly 60 Challenges through the years and have been a team leader of some sort for most of them.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in NJ ~ the western part, close to PA. If you find Route 78 in NJ on the map, head west and stop just short of PA ~ that is the area that I live in.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? At the beginning of 2025, I decided it was time for me to get 'back on track' as I had been lost. I mapped out a plan for myself. I jumped back on that bandwagon and so far, I have been doing well. My goals are to lose 20-30 lbs. all together (I'm currently at about -15 lbs. At my last physical, the doctor said that he was thinking of putting me on cholesterol meds … I wanted to try to do this without medication ~ fingers crossed that when I have my next physical, I will be back in a more normal range.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I love the IDEA of summer. I don't particularly care for 'The Dog Days of Summer' (especially since we have NO A/C at our house). My favorite seasons are def. Spring and/or Autumn ~ Summer comes right behind those. I do, however, love the idea of summer … the 'longer' days and the relaxed schedules.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Ice Cream!! (YEAH, I know), BBQ's with family and friends.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking - very early in the morning. (Without A/C at home, I'm also an expert at s*w*e*a*t*i*n*g, LOL)
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walking, then cleaning the house. Gardening is only done if someone is holding a gun to my head!!
What always cheers you up? Spending time with my DD. Spending time with family & friends. Our dog, Raven. Going to a play. Getting on stage to perform.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? I've been on SP and then MFP since 2008. If I had any 'pearls of wisdom', I probably wouldn't be here anymore. I'm always learning and always a 'work in progress'.
Please share two fun things about you. After HS, I attended business school and studied Travel & Tourism. One time, I went to Greece for a weekend! Another trip to Europe found me in Paris ~ I was visiting a friend who was studying in Paris. I stayed in her 'hotel' … filled with all foreign students. My room was the most expensive in the 'hotel' (and I use that word VERY loosley). My room was $5.00USD per night (this was in the late 80's - that was cheap even for thos times).
Is there anything else you would like to share? If you just found the Challenges and/or have been a part of the 5% Challenges for many, many rounds ~ please embrace what is being suggested. The 5% Challenge requires work and commitment, however, if you plan to work the program to the best of your ability, you WILL be successful!

Dianedoessmiles1 · June 4

Please copy these questions to your post in the comments.

What is your MFP name? Dianedoessmiles1
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Diane
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? On Sparkpeople eons ago. I am still grateful to Healthygrammy!
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back? Since 2011 Winter. I keep coming back because it WORKS!! Without the support, it's super easy to regain the 100 lb loss and MORE!
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Maine in the Greater Portland area. My place overlooks the harbor, it's gorgeous!!! Maine is very much a tourist area. We keep hearing "Most Canadians have cancelled their plans to the US," Which could be true, but our traffic is no less than its normal. We are noticing a lot of out of state plates, which is the norm. Today by my house I looked at 8 licence plates. 4 of them were out of state.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I've been working on my steps. I have a few heart conditions, but exercise is only a benefit. There's no loss here. I may not go far or fast, but I STILL GO!! WOOHOO!!!
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Summer was always my favorite, with the heart issues, it's not, but I love watching people being happy and relaxed. Summer is such, and I enjoy that very much! We went to Bug Light! I also love BBQing very much!! I get friends together, we try to stick to 4 of us, but often end up with more, that is okay also.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Sitting outside enjoying the area. We did that today!
We went to Bug Light! I also love BBQing very much!! I get friends together, we try to stick to 4 of us, but often end up with more, that is okay also.

9. What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking!! LOVE Walking. Never take something so simple for granted!

10. Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? WALK! Absolutely!
What always cheers you up? Name 3 things I am grateful for. They do not need to be big things.

11. Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Enjoy all foods, but keep track of your calories. If you are going to a BBQ, Wedding, etc., in the AM and the other times of the day for eating, PLAN on what you'll eat first before and after the event. At the event, if you want something, often a small bite of it is enough. After the first few bites, the "thrill" of it leaves. Fill up on protein and fiber.

12. Please share two fun things about you. I adore humor and cats! Though I am up there in age, I am still surrounded by many friends.

13. Is there anything else you would like to share? Life is 10% of what happens to you, 90% of how you respond. No time will ever be "the right time" to make changes; do them now. Happiness is not based on our weight, but being lighter makes it easier to move around. Hence, celebrate those NSV (Non Scale Victories), they add up!

Ceriusly1 · June 5

@Dianedoessmiles1 Healthygrammy was a special lady! It's cool that she invited you to the challenge. I am the one who invited her. The ripple effect of this challenge amazes me.

Patti241 · June 7

What is your MFP name? Patti241
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Patti
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? By a friend
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I have completed a lot of the challenges
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Fredericksburg, VA. Sort of in the country
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Do get more exercise in.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes if it is not too hot.
What are your favorite Summer activities?
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? take a walk
What always cheers you up? Friends
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? no
Please share two fun things about you. I like to shop and read
Is there anything else you would like to share? no

Uptoit59 · June 7

What is your MFP name? Uptoit59
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Carolyn
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I have been doing challenges for a long time
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Lots Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Accountability to maintain my weight loss goal for years
What major city do you live in or near? Charlotte State? SC Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Suburb of Charlotte but over the border in SC
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I would like to be more active in community fitness
Do you like Summer? It is a bit difficult in the south Why or why not? Heat and sun exposure
What are your favorite Summer activities? walking or hiking in shady areas
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? same as above
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Hearing that my kids are doing ok
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Track everything that goes into your mouth!
Please share two fun things about you. I am a retired pet service provider and love dogs & cats
Is there anything else you would like to share? I am grateful to all the women who volunteer their time to creating and maintaining the challenges season after season

macrat12 · June 7

What is your MFP name? macrat12
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Sarah
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Spark
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Too many to count. Accountability of my team
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live about 45 minutes west across the state line from Joplin Missouri in Girard Kansas.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season?
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I like Summer because it stays lighter outside later.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Walking outside before it gets too hot.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking outside.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Take a walk
What always cheers you up? Watching IG stories containing Kids or animals
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Consistency Creates Habits, Habits Create Lifestyle all Gas No Breaks
Please share two fun things about you. I love to read and I love to learn about different fitness related subjects
Is there anything else you would like to share? I have a passion for working out and getting 1% better than I was yesterday.

grammamary98 · June 7

What is your MFP name? GrammaMary
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? MARY
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Someone on my WIO team mentioned it
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Lost count. Have done 5% Challenges since 1 challenge before the SUD team was formed on SP
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Just north of Providence, RI.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Right now I'm going to continue in maintenance until my husband is fully recovered. Too much stress right now to try getting back to weight loss.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Like the longer days but not the hot and humid weather.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Walking when the weather is good
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? I like going to the Senior Center at least 4 times a week for exercise classes
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Having time with my grandkids and children
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Everything in moderation.
Please share two fun things about you. I have a BSEE degree. Never worked in that field but did build our 1st color TV and home computer. In 1997 went to Guatemala on a Habitat for Humanity trip
Is there anything else you would like to share?

dianetucker1 · June 7

What is your MFP name? Dianetucker1
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as?Diane
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Spark People
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Numerous Closest to % Goal this past spring so I am hoping Summer '25 will be 'my challenge'!
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? St Louis, MO but in Southern Illinois. Small rural town
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Need to increase strength and overall fitness. Been extremely fatigued and not sure why?
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes but not so much of the heat/humidity
What are your favorite Summer activities? Swimming and hiking....want to learn pickleball
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Grandkids, spending time with friends, especially my girlfriend circle. They are nuts!
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Consistency is key....need to work on that myself!
Please share two fun things about you. Like trying new things
Is there anything else you would like to share?

RFrick · June 7

What is your MFP name? *RFrick
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? *Regina
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? *I was looking for a challenge to participate in after enjoying Spring100 for the first time this year.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. *This is my first
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? *I live an hour south of Dallas Texas. We have 275 acres, just over 30 beef cows and make hay. I have a beautiful (when it's not muddy) gravel/dirt road to walk on!
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? *Lose weight and get off my blood pressure and cholesterol meds.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? *Not in Texas 🥵 It's crazy hot for months. I plan to take early morning walks!
What are your favorite Summer activities? *Swimming and setting in front of the AC.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? *Early morning walks and swimming.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? *Garden
What always cheers you up? *Friends. Peace and quiet. A good book.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? *Get exercise in first thing!
Please share two fun things about you. *Not necessarily a 'fun' fact, but I've struggled with my weight my entire adult life. I sew all my own clothes. I have six children ages 6-15 that I homeschool
Is there anything else you would like to share?

cory17 · June 7

What is your MFP name? cory17
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? cory17 (linda)
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? here on mfp and started doing
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. keeps me mindful
What major city do you live in or near? State? in San Fernando Valley, which is a suburb of Los Angeles
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? increase gym time, start day with a protein smoothie, bring down the weight
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? YES, it's a break usually from regular routine
What are your favorite Summer activities? used to go camping with my kids (they're adults now but I'd still like to go), beach, biking, plants
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? bikes and beach
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? walk, then garden, then anything, then maybe clean
What always cheers you up? music and dance
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? fiber and protein
Please share two fun things about you. jokes, more jokes
Is there anything else you would like to share? retiring next week

RuthieMJones · June 7

What is your MFP name? RuthieMJones
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Ruthie
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I stumbled upon it last year
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I think 4?
What major city do you live in or near? Austin State? Texas Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I am Central Texas, where allergies reign :)
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I would like to lose weight and re-learn better eating habits.
Do you like Summer? Yes, I do. Why or why not? Because I love to be at the pool, I love my skin golden.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Pool, family gatherings
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Any exercise my body manages to do :), I guess swimming.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Garden, and clean house
What always cheers you up? Seeing my kids
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? I like to recommend sticking to food logging.
Please share two fun things about you. I am weird, and love people watching.
Is there anything else you would like to share? Nah, y'all see me around the chat :)

katiecondy1 · June 7

Please copy these questions to your post in the comments.

What is your MFP name? katie.condy1
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as?Katie
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Spark People then over to MFP
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Countless, been on the edge of Onderland several times, but feel better and appreciate the fellowship and support of teams and leaders.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Colo. Springs, Colorado-close to the mountains and the forests that I love.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Improve fitness and stamina
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Ahh that is a love/hate relationship. Love the sun and hiking and swimming -do not do well in the heat and lately it has been getting hotter!
What are your favorite Summer activities? hiking, mountain rides down back roads, camping
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? oh that is easy WALK hands down.
What always cheers you up? puppy kisses or the nicker of my horse, the bray of greeting from my donkey. Am now limited to puppy kisses but those are priceless!
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Consistency wins-Never Give Up
Please share two fun things about you. I love to make people laugh/ Laughing at myself is OK
Is there anything else you would like to share? Good luck to all but remember ..we make our own luck by being consistent!! ========

cormierannie · June 7

What is your MFP name? cormierannie
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? annie
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Spark People then over to MFP
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back/ several. i reached my goal weight doing the challenges.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Toronto, Ontario, Canada
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? to try new activities, like zumba dancing
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? i like the summer because my birthday is in the summer.!
What are your favorite Summer activities? waking, bike riding, going to the beach
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? i'd rather take a walk
What always cheers you up? seeing pretty flowers or hearing birds chirping outside
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share?do not give up. you are worth it
Please share two fun things about you. i love to dance and i love to go to the beach in the summer.
Is there anything else you would like to share? good luck, everyone! we have got this1 we can do it!

bookieNJ · June 7

What is your MFP name? BookieNJ
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Mary
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? SparkPeople
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Many! I have been a member, then a leader, back to a member (still getting used to new routines). Lost weight, felt good about it
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? An hour west of NYC
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Get back to jogging, strength training
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I do because no school so it’s a slightly slower pace
What are your favorite Summer activities? Vacation?, pool, lazy mornings
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Laps in a pool
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Talking/walking with good friends
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? No
Please share two fun things about you. I took Russian for 4 years in high school and totally wanted to move there. I love book challenges
Is there anything else you would like to share? I am not a gambler. I love books which is why my name is bookie. I wish I had made it bookworm

Grannysue91 · June 7

Please copy these questions to your post in the comments.

What is your MFP name? Grannysue91

2. What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Sue

3. How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I joined Spark People in 2010 and I met a woman named @Dianedoessmiles1 and she invited me join her team SPUDS and I started to do the Challenges.

4. How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I believe I have done 60. The biggest win for me was after I had all of my treatments for my breast cancer and some meds that made me gain weight. I was the highest I had ever weighed. (212) It has taken me a long time to get some of it off and I am currently at 163. I got a lot of support from the ladies on that team. 5. What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us bit about where you live? I live about 30 North of Memphis, TN. It used to be a small quiet town but now we are bursting at the seams. Not at all like it was in 1992 when we moved here. 6.What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Maintaining my A1C which stays at 5.4 or 5.5. I would also like to lose about 20 more pounds. 7. Do you like Summer? Why or why not? NO!! It is so hot and humid here that I can't go outside without getting sick. 8. What are your favorite Summer activities? Swimming 9. What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Swimming

10. Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Take a walk if it isn't too hot.

11. What always cheers you up? My grandkids and great grandkids.

12. Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Just NEVER give up. You can do it if you keep at it.

13. Please share two fun things about you. I am crazy and I love playing games on the computer.

14. Is there anything else you would like to share? I have 2 very spoiled dogs. The oldest is Chico and the newest one is Paco. They treat us better than our kids do.

francescopelandlucas · June 7

What is your MFP name? francescopelandlucas
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Frances
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? been around since Spark
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Too many to recall…maybe 30 or so?
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Near Birmingham, AL. I live on a small lake over a mountain in a quiet area. Very nice.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I am stuck with my last 8 or so pounds so I would like to get them off.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes, I love the daylight being longer and the warm days.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Watching my granddaughter play travel softball.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? None really
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Clean
What always cheers you up? Grandchildren
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Cut out gluten and feel better and lose weight
Please share two fun things about you. My grands call me Sugar Pie. I was born in Bermuda.
Is there anything else you would like to share? My 10th grandchild is due in September.

Bovinity55 · June 8

What is your MFP name? Bovinity55
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Christine or you can call me Bovinity
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? When my daughter was in college, she introduced me to Spark people which I think was the predecessor to MFP.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Honestly I don’t know, but my guess is 10 or more. Hubby says 20, but I don’t think it’s that many LOL! The Wins are the people of this community!!
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live between Huntsville, AL and Birmingham, Alabama. We have a house on the lake where we have lived for about 30 years.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Maintain my current weight loss and exercise/walking.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes! Even though it is hot in Alabama in the summer, I prefer that to the cold winters in Massachusetts where I grew up, LOL.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Spending some time with my daughters and the grandkids.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Early morning walking in the park with my dog Arnie.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk,
What always cheers you up? Talking or emailing with the grandkids.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Log your food in a little notebook.. you can also keep track of all your exercise and weekly weight.
Please share two fun things about you. I enlisted in the Air Force at 18 and that’s where I met my future husband. I’m a first generation American — my Dad, Mom and my older sister emigrated from England to Canada and then to the US before I was born. This was in the early 1950’s — the economy in England was very poor in the aftermath of WW2.
Is there anything else you would like to share? I’ve really enjoyed this community over the years!

HealthyBarb1 · June 8

What is your MFP name? HealthyBarb1
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Barbie
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I started in 2010 when was invited by friend on SP.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I have done 60+ challenges & keep going because they keep me accountable to my healthy goals & I enjoy my teammates.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Live in suburbs near Seattle Washington
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Eat low carb & walk daily.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I love summer & all the flowers & warm weather.
What are your favorite Summer activities? Being outside & beach time & being in my back deck.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Time at the beach or walking ng by the water.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? I do well with lower carb eating. Helps me lose weight
Please share two fun things about you. I love to go to the ocean & I love to journal on my computer.
IIs there anything else you would like to share I am enjoying being retired & still figuring out what I want this season to be like.

joywilson383 · June 8

What is your MFP name? joywilson383
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Joy
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? SparkPeople
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. too many to count
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Villa Park California. Close to Disneyland
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Lose weight
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? No. It gets hot
What are your favorite Summer activities? Swimming
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Swimming
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? listening to music
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? you are more likely to keep off the weight if you take it off slowly.
Please share two fun things about you. I was born in New Orleans Louisiana and I love Star Wars and Harry Potter movies.
Is there anything else you would like to share?. My birthday is in July

besshaile · June 8

What is your MFP name? besshaile
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Bess
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I have a friend who is a challenger leader
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. none
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live. Richmond, VA - although I live 50 miles east of there, on a farm along the Rappahannock River.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Definitely a 5% weight loss but also building strength and stamina
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I'm more of a fall/spring girl but as a cancer survivor I love every day of every season
What are your favorite Summer activities? swimming first - and having guests come for a visit
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? swimming, of course.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? hmmm. all three sound nice but take a walk would be a favorite
What always cheers you up? seeing my grandchildren
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Give exercise 5 minutes - Once started it's really easy to do the whole routine
Please share two fun things about you. I'm an artist - semi-pro. I give tours at our Governor's Mansion
Is there anything else you would like to share? I used to play violin in the Richmond Symphony and I ran a library for 39 years.

itladyee · June 8

What is your MFP name? ITLadyee
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Charissa
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Repeat but originally Diane
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. Lost count. Keeps me focused on my health.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Chicago, western suburb.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Staying healthy, losing weight, ideally 5% 🤓
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes, but sans the bugs!
What are your favorite Summer activities? Walking, baseball games (watching)
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Puppies
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Diet/Nutrition= Tracking; Fitness = Just do it….
Please share two fun things about you. Love to Laugh, Love technology
Is there anything else you would like to share? no

colleentalamantes · June 8

What is your MFP name?
Colleentalamantes
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Colleen
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges?

When I first joined MFP, I was looking for accountability and saw the challenge posted in the Community section.

4. How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back.

I’ve lost track. This will be the 4th, I think. I like reading about others struggles and wins. I was not very successful this last one due to a life challenge, but at least I didn’t gain a crazy amount.

5. What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live?

I live in the Bay Area—San Jose, CA. It’s a large city, but our neighborhood is like living in a small town. We have a neighborhood association that does lots of community activities.

6. What are your health/fitness goals for this season?

Lose weight! Exercise every day, add weights to my routine.

7. Do you like Summer? Why or why not?

I love it. California weather is usually pretty good,. I’m not a fan of hotter than 90.

8. What are your favorite Summer activities?

Gardening and going to the beach.

9. What is your favorite type of Summer exercise?

Hiking, biking.

10. Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house?

Garden for sure.

11. What always cheers you up?

Cartoons, watching my grandkids.

12.Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share?

Never give up. If you are discouraged, look back at how far you’ve come.

13. Please share two fun things about you.

One of my hobbies is square dancing. I also love to read.

14. Is there anything else you would like to share?

I am hoping this will be my most successful challenge.

SweetPeasMom55 · June 8

What is your MFP name? SweetPeasMom55
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Sue
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? cruising through the challenges
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. (4)Sometimes it's just about putting yourself first
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in NY outside of Buffalo we always get the snow
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? My health goals are to take 20 min a day to just focus and breath. Let the outside world go just 20 minutes to focus on nothing but breathing. I would like to drop the steroid weight I put on. I would like to get off all the meds I was put on this last challenge.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I'm okay with Summer. I am photosensitive so the sun is not my friend. I wear long sleeves and pants and wide brim hats.
What are your favorite Summer activities? working in the yard
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? yard work and swimming
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? walk/ garden
What always cheers you up? sweet pea my cat.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? It's not a competition just do what works for you
Please share two fun things about you. I love to travel by myself. I would love to have my palm read or see a psychic medium this year.
Is there anything else you would like to share? I am a caretaker for my parents. I work full time and 4 nights a week I spend at my folks.

EjoyEvelyn · June 8

1 I'm EjoyEvelyn

2 Call me Evelyn

3 I learned about the team with an invite on SparkPeople from Ceri

4 Since Fall 2010. I lost 100 lbs during this process aling with Weightwatchers and some healthier authors teaching me to eat more plant-based and unprocessed.

5 Twin Ports on the western tip of Lake Superior. Lots of great state parks nearby in both Wisconsin and Minnesota -- Great place to see waterfalls, as well as walk trails and waterfronts (especially along one of over 30,000+ lakes in both states. I also regularly spend time in Southwest Florida near the Gulf of Mexico, where I enjoy walking numerous boardwalks, like Six Mile Cypress, Eco-preserve, CorkscrewSanctuary, and Facahatchee park and boardwalk.

6 30 minutes daily, 210 minutes weekly

7 I love summer. I especially love it when it cools off at night time.

8 My favorite activities are walking the waterfront or being anywhere near the water. I am active and numerous small groups mostly related to knitting prayer shawls.

9 Enjoying the local sites as mentioned in items 5 and 8. Brand new in the last two weeks is my joining the YMCA thanks to the benefits Dan and I have in our Healthcare program. I have already enjoyed their huge Family Pool twice. I have a chair yoga class on Tuesdays and low impact aerobics on Thursday.

10 Walk and declutter. I suspect I would alternate between the two for the perfect level of variety.

11 A smile, gentle words of encouragement, a compliment, and accomplishing a goal I’ve set for myself cheer me up.

12 Tip: Set goals for yourself -- then meet or exceed them as appropriate. In other words, do not ignore doctor’s orders. The healthy habits encouraged by the 5% are an exceptional way to start Meeting those goals.

13 Please share two fun things: I’ve lost 100 lb already so I have the head knowledge of what works. Make sure you’re in a number of quality small groups that can provide the encouragement and loves that interest you the most.

Kurtize · June 9

What is your MFP name? Kurtize
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Joyce or Kurt
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Been a part of 5% challenge since 2014
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I like the support, friends I made and I have good and bad challenges but always want to come back. How many too many to remember
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Florence OR, central coast.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? To just get back on track, eat healthier, lose weight and exercise more
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes I like summer, spring is favorite. Living in Oregon it isn't that hot (at least where we at, when in Texas, the summers could be brutal.
What are your favorite Summer activities? No real summer activities.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Walk
What always cheers you up? Music, funny stories or movies
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Don't give up, remember one step at a time.
Please share two fun things about you. I had lost my weight, and kept it off then after moving to Tx I gained some back, still working on that but can laugh about it. I have a good sense of humor and am very sociable and most times can help people laugh especially if feeling down.
Is there anything else you would like to share? Just take each day as it comes, forget yesterday you can't change it, you don't know about tomorrow, so just enjoy today its the present.

Retired_Sue · June 9

What is your MFP name? Retired_Sue
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Sue
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I learned about the challenges more than 9 years ago from another challenger who was on one of my SP community teams.
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I've done every challenge since I started in the Spring of 2016 except for one so I think that makes 36 challenges now. Considering that I was probably 50-60 pounds heavier when I first started, I'd say losing all that weight was a major win, but it took time. Keeping that weight off is a major motivation for continuing with the challenges.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I am proudly Canadian and live in a small city in Southcentral Ontario. The city fronts on a lake and we have a lovely downtown park which is the site of many summer activities.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I'm still working on getting the last 3-4 pounds off to be at goal, and maintaining, of course.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I don't like the cold so summer is my season!
What are your favorite Summer activities? I enjoy attending Ticats football games (CFL) with my husband. spending time with my family and we have just started learning how to lawn bowl.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? I enjoy walking on our lakeside trails or downtown.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Definitely take a walk - I'm not a gardener!
What always cheers you up? Spendng time with my family or when my Ticats win a game!
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? My mantra when I was working on my weight loss years ago was always "Slow and Steady wins the race"
Please share two fun things about you. I direct a small choir that visits LTC homes during the fall/winter. I'm a big CFL football fan.
Is there anything else you would like to share?

shotgun_rider08 · June 9

What is your MFP name? shotgun_rider08 (Like the song)
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Grace
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I heard about it here and wanted to try it out!
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. This is actually my first challenge, so I’m excited to see how it goes.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Northern California, about half an hour outside of Redding.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I want to lose weight and tone up.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? I like the fact that there’s no school, but the heat is not fun, especially if you’re working outside all day.
What are your favorite Summer activities? I like going swimming, hanging out with my family, driving down a road with the windows open, and sitting around a bonfire with good friends.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? I honestly enjoy running-as long as it’s in the morning, before the heat hits.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? Take a walk for sure! I love being able to slow down and just enjoy nature.
What always cheers you up? Puppies. And kittens. Or just baby animals in general. That and listening to good music.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Don’t slack! One cheat day could turn into two…then three.
Please share two fun things about you. I’m a staff sergeant in the Civil Air Patrol, and I play acoustic guitar.
Is there anything else you would like to share?
“Luck to me is lots of determination, hard work, faith in myself, and in God.” -Lane Frost

paceka2 · June 9

What is your MFP name? paceka2
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Kathy
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? Invited by a friend from SparkPeople
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. So far no wins as I have been recovering from a second spinal fusion surgery. However, doing these challenges keeps me on track.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? Champlin, MN is a NW suburb of Minneapolis.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? Gain strength while losing some weight
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Summer is not my favorite season, but it's preferable to Winter in Minnesota - no snow!
What are your favorite Summer activities? Gardening, taking walks with Daisy (my dog), traveling.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? Walking Daisy
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? I'd rather do anything other than cleaning the house.
What always cheers you up? Pilates
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? I like to stretch every day, I believe our bodies work better when they have been stretched out.
Please share two fun things about you. I had 3 daughters and then was surprised by twin sons. My second husband and I are celebrating our 30th anniversary on June 17.
Is there anything else you would like to share?

deskjockey925 · June 9

What is your MFP name? Deskjockey925
What is your real name, or what name would you like to be known as? Diane
How did you learn about the 5% Challenges? I've been here for a while, since Spark
How many 5% Challenges have you completed? Please share some of the "Wins" that keep you coming back. I am not sure of the number, but the "Wins" are many: I have made a lot of new healthy habits like eating slower, tracking nutrition, weighing & measuring my food. I've lost close to 20 pounds and lots of inches. I have also gotten a lot stronger. Plus it keeps me focused on my health.
What major city do you live in or near? State? Could you tell us a bit about where you live? I live in Delaware, in a part of the state that is mostly farms and beaches. Even though we all live an acre or 2 (or 30!) away from our neighbor, we all tend to know each other quite well and look after each other and the children here in the neighborhood.
What are your health/fitness goals for this season? I want to shed inches from my belly and hips.
Do you like Summer? Why or why not? Yes, OMG Yes!! The heat, the beach, the pool, the sun.
What are your favorite Summer activities? The pool, gardening, fishing, hiking, beaching.
What is your favorite type of Summer exercise? I exercise a lot at the gym … so, Zumba, kickboxing, Bootcamp and ST stuff - and then also hiking outside and swimming.
Would you rather take a walk, garden, or clean the house? 1-Walk 2-Garden 3-Clean
What always cheers you up? My pets, my grandson, my husband, music, a sunny day, a new book to read.
Do you have a diet or fitness tip to share? Track your Food!! The weight loss battle is fought, won, and lost in the kitchen
Please share two fun things about you. I teach 6th grade Religious Ed with my husband. I'm learning to speak Spanish.
Is there anything else you would like to share?

🔎👣 2025 5% Summer Challenge Community👣🔍 8 Weeks Begins Saturday July 12, Final WIN September 6👣🔍

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