Ugh I totally forgot to weigh this morning. I even have a reminder on my phone, but it came up when I was on the treadmill and I snoozed it… then forgot until I was already getting ready. I'll weigh tomorrow and post that weight.

I'm still stepping away. I averaged 17, 849 steps a day over the last 7 days. I'm feeling really good. Some days are obviously harder to get them in, but I still manage to do it even if it means walking around the house a bit more or just quick mini walks, like walking to check the mail or around the block.

Sarah - I'm sorry you're a bit down lately. I know how things can pile on in our minds and get to us. I can imagine how much you miss your sister. Thinking about good thoughts about her and your relationship can be great but it can be tough too. Just know I'm thinking of you. Your struggles with wanting to get back to your pre-surgery weight, just try to think positively, as difficult as it can be some days. You're still in the 130's and not higher. Slowly but surely, you'll get your progress back. :)

This weekend Shawn and I are heading to the cabin Saturday morning and back Sunday. My Dad was going to come with us, but he messaged me this morning to say that he fell (again 😔) and scraped his arm, so likely wouldn't be coming. My poor Dad. It's so hard to see him get older and be so frail. My Mom is having surgery in November for pelvic prolapse, and I'm worried for both of them. Worried for my Mom's surgery and recovery and worried for my Dad to stay alone at home for a few days. Plus then the after care. Despite my Dad saying he'll be fine at home alone, I might go spend 1 or 2 nights there with him, just so he has some company. We'll see.

I'll check back later to see if there are more posts to read.

Have a safe trip, Lois!

LW: 128.2
TW: 127.8

I'm here, and doing well. I've been logging food religiously, and checking to make sure I'm getting enough protein. I don't log water, but I just guzzle it all day from a water bottle I carry with me all day. Focusing on water, protein, and vegetables is working for me, so thanks Kelly. Hubby gets home tomorrow, so I'll have to settle down from all the fun and pampering I've done "while the cat's away", lol. I've had a mani, pedi, massage, and facial. I've hung out with grand babies and my daughter, as well as a little with friends. I've done weights with my trainer, and cardio the other days, but I'm no 17,000+ step taker like you ladies.

Kelly, wow. . Your steps are amazing! (I'm going to have to get your brother's books!) I don't know whether to be more stunned by your activity or the bear encounter you mentioned but didn't describe! Do tell us. Enjoy your time at your cabin, and watch out for bears, lol. Keep up the great efforts with walking, and all the great progress Shawn is making on your house. I'm sending prayers to your parents. You're a very thoughtful daughter.

Sarah, I can certainly sympathize with feeling down with a slow recovery from surgery. Remember, though, you've been through a lot more than just that surgery. Think about everything that's happened over the last year or so. I think the tiny increase in weight is indicative of how WELL you've navigated all of it . . health issues, deaths, hubby health issues, pet health issues, stress, financial setbacks . . on and on. Extend yourself a little grace, and think how strong you've been through it all. Just keep doing what you're doing and you will be fine. Like Kelly said, you're still in the 130s . . nowhere near the weight you were when you got started with us.

Lois, 10 pounds gone! Great work, and I hope it keeps you motivated for more. Your postcards to Rhea are such a cute idea. I know she will love her surprise trip to DL. Enjoy your time there. Sorry you were sick. I got a flu shot because it's going around here, and it's not a fun one, so I hope you ladies all get one too.

Sarah, you missing your sister made me want to call mine . . so I'm signing off to do that.

Sheesh - your solo time sounds amazing!! I love that for you. And I'm sure hubby will bring home a ton of fish. I'm hoping the sea air cleared him up and brightened his spirits. Keep doing what you're doing….your path is amazing.

Kelly - I love that your company is providing opportunities like that. Sometimes people don't realize how much it can help when they just go to something. Sometimes you don't know what you could use until you hear something new. I usually get something out of each "class" our company offers - whatever the foundation. Right now our company is focusing on the Ramsey plan. We have several younger employees (a few with new families) and I think the Ramsey plan can help them. And because of the Ramsey plan, that's one of the reasons I kick myself for splurging on my new Grand Highlander. This was a total "want purchase" not a need in any way. But I will admit that I adore it as well. but it does go against several financial plans, including one I had in place.

I'm watching the clock this morning and put luggage in the car earlier this am. Only need to load my travel snacks and shower stuff (it's almost 90 here already). Hubby's picking up something for lunch so I can eat before I hit the road and 12:01. I'm excited and anxious to get on the road. Have a great weekend everyone.

Sarah - It's definitely not easy to get that many steps in. I get about 4800 in a 2 mile walk on the treadmill in the morning before I go to work, that takes 30 mins. Then I walk around as much as I can throughout the day at work. If I go to the bathroom, then I take the long way there and back, stairs, etc. At lunch at work, I eat, then I try to go for a walk around the block. Then after work I walk the dog another 2 miles. If I still have more energy, I walk on the treadmill a bit more and watch a show. My mindset is if I'm going to lay in bed and watch a show, I may as well do a walk on the treadmill while I do it. Obviously some days are WAY easier than others and this step challenge I'm in is making me get more movement in that I would normally, but we'll see if I can keep it up. My goal is still 10k steps in a day, but I just recently raised my Move Goal up on my Apple Watch, so that'll help too.